ã€ŠAfter Divorce: Pursued by Cohabiting Bossã€‹


 Chapter 1: Thereâ€™s Always a Man

    <h4>Chapter 1</h4>

    "Li Zhen,e on, our private room is still ahead."

    "You guys go first, I''lle in a moment." Li Zhen stood still without moving.

    "Alright." The colleagues who came to dinner together went ahead first.

    From this angle, Li Zhen could just see through the door gap and make out a figure in the private room ahead.

    It was her husband, Yu Sheng.

    He wore a bespoke western suit, the delicate fabric giving him an aura of cold aloofness. With his tall nose and dark eyes, his thin lips exuded a forbidding coldness.

    He was born with wless looks, outstanding and dazzling.

    A morously dressed beautiful woman sat on Yu Sheng''sp, kissed his face, and said with a smile, "President Yu, let''s drink a toast. With this, I''ll sign the contract as is, right now."

    Yu Sheng slightly tilted his head to look at the woman on hisp, revealing his sharp Adam''s apple. He smiled as he drank the toast, one hand still holding the woman''s delicate waist to steady her soft body.

    Li Zhen took out her phone. Her fair fingers trembled slightly as she typed, "Be home by 11pm tonight. I''ll wait for you."

    In the private room, Yu Sheng felt his phone vibrate and nced at it, leaving it on the table.

    Li Zhen withdrew her gaze, a sharp pain transmitting from her heart.

    The two had dated for years before getting married. They had a secret marriage this year, and Yu Sheng had been overseas for half of it. For the remaining half year, he either worked overtime or attended social functions every day,ing home at 2 or 3am. He would leave for work again before dawn.

    Li Zhen understood his focus on his career, but the scene before her eyes was too ring for a wife.

    Before going home after dinner, Li Zhen went to the mall and bought a sexy silk nightgown and a rose. She sprinkled the rose petals on the bed and changed into the new nightgown.

    But as she expected, when the clock struck 11, the person she was waiting for did note home.

    At 3am, Yu Sheng returned.

    After showering, he came out of the bathroom with a white towel around his waist, revealing his firm, rugged abs. He went to the bed, took off the towel, and got into bed naked.

    He gently took Li Zhen into his arms. His hand touched the slippery silk of her nightgown.

    His breath froze in that instant.

    He slid his palm under Li Zhen''s spaghetti strap from her neckline.

    "Yu Sheng, I have something to tell you," said a soft, low voice.

    "Did I wake you?" Yu Sheng lowered his head to meet Li Zhen''s clear eyes. He restrained himself from moving his hand on her chest, gave her a kiss, and said, "Let''s talk tomorrow. It''s toote now. Go to sleep."

    Li Zhen thought, if she waited until tomorrow, she would never get a chance to speak.

    He always left before she woke up in the mornings.

    Li Zhen reached out to turn on the bedsidemp and looked at him intently. "I just have one thing to say. From now on, you muste home by 10pm at least twice a week. Don''t say you can''t do it. I''m not asking you, I''m telling you."

    "Alright, I''ll try my best." The alcohol and social obligations made Yu Sheng tired. His tone wasnguid.

    "It''s not try your best. It''s must," Li Zhen wanted a definite answer from him.

    Yu Sheng opened his eyes again, his handsome features slightly sinking. "I just became the Marketing Directorst month. Today I signed a major project. I''m very busy right now. Don''t throw a little tantrum with me now."

    Of course Li Zhen knew he signed a major project today.

    Not only did she know, she also saw it happen.

    Thinking of the scene in the private room, Li Zhen gave a bitterugh. "A wife asking her husband toe home earlier is considered throwing a little tantrum. How ironic."

    Yu Sheng kissed her crimson lips again, lingering on them ingratiatingly. He murmured, "If you''re bored, you can bring Grandpa to stay with you for a while..."

    At the mention of Grandpa, Li Zhen pushed him away. She was barely keeping her temper in check. "What''s the point of bringing him here? To let him find out his granddaughter has been married for a year but her husband hasn''t touched her? That she''s just a prop?"

    "I didn''t intentionally neglect you. I''m already exhausted when I get home every day," Yu Sheng massaged his temples.

    He had to get up early tomorrow to arrange work for the new project. He could only sleep 3 hours tonight.

    Yu Sheng looked at the time. Not wanting to argue further with Li Zhen, he said, "I can''te home early. If you insist on forcing me like this, we can only get a divorce."

    "Divorce?" Li Zhen was stunned for a moment.

    She only wanted some of his time and for him to bnce his life and work. Yet in exchange she got talk of divorce?

    For Yu Sheng, she had given up the job she loved and followed his arrangements to join Macro Ocean with him. She rushed home early every day waiting for him longingly.

    All these concessions were so unlike her.

    After a year of such stifling days, talk of divorce was thest straw.

    Li Zhen turned off the bedsidemp. Her tone was unexpectedly calm in the darkness. "Fine, let''s divorce."

    Yu Sheng''s breath hitched. "You''re so lustful? I can''te home early to satisfy you, yet you actually want to divorce over this?"

    "Mr. Yu is right. I''m just lustful. Go divorce me tomorrow. I''ll immediately find a man to let me experience heavenly bliss!" Li Zhen flipped over with her back to Yu Sheng and said coldly, provoking him, "My husband is useless. There must be men who can satisfy me!"

    Yu Shengughed angrily through gritted teeth. The veins on his forehead throbbed wildly. "Fine, since you insist on making trouble, let''s divorce. See you at the civil affairs bureau tomorrow."

    Yu Sheng was wide awake now. He got dressed and went to the office.

    The next morning, the two got their divorce certificate on the spot at the civil affairs bureau.

    The procedures werepleted much faster than Yu Sheng imagined.

    Back at his office, Yu Sheng looked at the divorce certificate on his desk, feeling utterly exhausted.

    A month ago, thepany discovered that the Deputy CEO and the then Marketing Director had embezzled a huge amount of public funds. These two crucial positions became vacant.

    Yu Sheng had been promoted to Marketing Director despite hisck of experience. Because it wasn''t a proper handover, the former Marketing Director had left a big mess.

    The Deputy CEO was transferred from Macro Ocean''s headquarters to the Southwest branch. He would arrive in a couple days. As a new official sweeping clean, who knew what temperament this new Deputy CEO had. There would be a period of adapting at work.

    Being separated for a while was good too. Take this time while he was busy for Li Zhen to calmly reflect on herself.

    -

    Certificate in hand, Li Zhen went to the HR department and applied for employee dorm housing.

    Macro Ocean''s employee dorms were all near thepany, scattered in small suites of around 50 sqm in different neighborhoods. They generally housed two people per suite. Not wanting to share, she chose a rundown one far away that no one lived in. This was where she had stayed before marrying Yu Sheng.

    The application process was simple. Li Zhen just had to fill out a form to get the key.

    She moved her things out before Yu Sheng returned home after work and moved into the dorm. She thought she would feel heartbroken and unable to fall asleep.

    But instead, after leaving Yu Sheng, with no expectations and no need to wait for her husband toe home, she actually slept very soundly.

    An emotionally draining rtionship had ended. She felt refreshed!

    What a mistake. She should have left sooner!

    The next day after work, Li Zhen went to a bar.

    Tonight she had a meeting with a female colleague from the Legal department to discreetly ask about thepany''s employment contract.

    Three years ago when she and Yu Sheng graduated, she had originally wanted to join an entertainmentpany. But Yu Sheng asked her to join Macro Ocean with him. So she joined the Advertising department as a contracted hand model.

    Now that she had divorced Yu Sheng, she should resign this job too.

    Li Zhen sat alone at the bar drinking while calmly waiting for her colleague. In high stiletto heels, a tight pencil skirt, a simple white shirt, and her long silky hair down just past her waist, the curve of her slender waist was barely concealed, inevitably attracting eyes that couldn''t look away.

    One after another, emboldened men approached trying their luck with her, only to leave disappointed.

    When Yu Sheng arrived, this was the scene he saw. An imposing shadow moved to sit next to Li Zhen. She turned to see Yu Sheng.

    "You said you''d find a man to experience heavenly bliss with. So you''re here today to pick one?"

    Li Zhen looked Yu Sheng up and down mockingly. "President Yu actually has time toe to a bar? How surprising."

    Yu Sheng wore a very formal suit. His sharp side profile and whole body radiated a precocious gravitas belying his age.

    His tone was light. "I''m here with thepany''s top management to wee the new Deputy CEO. Don''t think my work is so easy."

    "I never thought President Yu''s work was easy. President Yu doesn''t need to put me down," frowned Li Zhen disgustedly. "Moreover, since we''re divorced, whether President Yu is busy with work or not has nothing to do with me. There''s no need to specificallye tell me."

    "I just wanted to see what kind of man you''ve picked, to help you see if he measures up," Yu Sheng let out a cold mockingugh.

    "That''s perfect, President Yu, thanks for keeping an eye on things," Li Zhen said with a smile, beckoning to the bartender, "Hey handsome, what kind of services do you offer here?"

    The handsome bartender had already noticed the stunning beauty and overheard their conversation. He eagerly came over and winked at her.

    "We have plenty, anything you want, I''ll make sure you''repletely satisfied!"

 Chapter 2: Can I For Free

    <h4>Chapter 2</h4>

    ¡°Great, please help me find the most handsome, most expensive, and most skilled guy avable! Send him directly to my house, I''ll pay him 200,000 for the month.¡± Li Zhen blinked her eyes coquettishly, her voice soft and sticky.

    Facing the great beauty before him, the bartender''s heart melted halfway. ¡°You see...how about me? No need for 200,000, I''ll do it for free...¡±

    ¡°I don''t think you''ll work.¡± A cold gleam shed across Yu Sheng''s eyes.

    The bartender shivered under Yu Sheng''s stare. ¡°Then let me go find someone else, one of our top guys here.¡±

    Better not risk his life over this, best to let the professionals at their bar handle it.

    ¡°Wait...¡± Li Zhen called him back, pushing her ss towards the bartender. But her eyes were fixed challengingly on Yu Sheng. ¡°Get me something stronger, to liven up my night.¡±

    This pissed off Yu Sheng to no end. Let''s see if he still drops by uninvited after this.

    Yu Sheng got up, gripped her delicate chin, and forced her to look up at him. ¡°Fine, Li Zhen. Have a wonderful night!¡±

    With that, he turned and left.

    Li Zhen rubbed her chin where he had gripped it. She could tell without looking that it must be red.

    The bartender thought to himself that this beauty really knew her stuff, even asking for something to boost her mood. Seeing how gorgeous she was, he''d give her one of his secret stash for free.

    ¡°Mydy, this is the strongest we have. No effect for the first couple hours, but it hits hard after.¡± The bartender brought the ss below the bar, out of sight.

    He slipped something extra into her drink.

    Then he went to find her a man.

    Li Zhen hadn''t been paying attention to what the bartender was doing, assuming he had just gotten her a new drink. ¡°Thanks.¡±

    Her gaze had been fixed on Yu Sheng''s back the whole time. Seeing him leave, she dropped her self-satisfied smile. She hurriedly looked around for the bartender.

    He was gone!

    She grabbed another bartender in a panic. ¡°Please tell your coworker, I don''t need it anymore. Tell him not to find anyone for me. Please, please!¡±

    -

    The bartender had dutifully gone to find a top guy for the beauty, but halfway there, his path was blocked.

    ¡°Don''t find any men for her.¡± Yu Sheng''s brows were furrowed in irritation as he shoved a wad of cash into the bartender''s hands. ¡°Go back and tell her all your men are booked tonight.¡±

    ¡°Sir, I overheard your conversation earlier, you said you two are divorced. Don''t you think it''s inappropriate to control what she does privately?¡± The bartender red and threw the money back at him.

    Yu Sheng didn''t take the money, letting it fall to the ground.

    He grabbed the bartender''s cor roughly. ¡°What did you say?¡± His tone was icy.

    ¡°Easy, sir.¡± The bartenderughed lightly as he gently removed Yu Sheng''s hand. Righteously he said, ¡°Women need controlling, or else who knows what trouble they''ll cause? Don''t worry, I know what to say!¡±

    The bartender scurried away around the corner. After a few steps, he huffed angrily to himself. ¡°You think you own the whole Pacific Ocean? Meddling so much in her business!¡±

    He wouldn''t find the beauty a top guy, but with the special gift he''d given her, she''d surely look for one herself.

    ncing at the time, it was the end of his shift. Perfect time to slip away.

    -

    Li Zhen didn''t have to wait long before her colleague from legal showed up.

    The woman immediately startedining, saying she had caught her husband cheatingst night. They''d been together over ten years and just got divorced today.

    Li Zhen felt bad bringing up her own problems now. She kept drinking while consoling the woman.

    Tipsily, Li Zhen thought maybe she should just go home and forget asking today. But her colleague brought it up again. ¡°That''s right, about you wanting to terminate your contract...people in your advertising department try it every year, but how many have actually done it? They all obediently wait for the contract to expire.¡±

    Honghai Group was arge multinational jewelrypany, with the Southwest Regional Headquarters located in Jincheng. The M Country headquarters reviewed employee retention yearly.

    And models were known for high turnover.

    So Honghai''s Southwest models had very high liquidated damages written into theirbor contracts.

    ¡°Sister Song, I know the situation. That''s why I wanted to ask if you could think of a way?¡± Li Zhen refilled the other woman''s ss.

    Sister Song: ¡°How much was your sryst year?¡±

    Li Zhen held up her fingers, carefully counting. ¡°Around 400,000 I think?¡±

    ¡°Your contract says six times the sry, so your liquidated damages will be close to 2.5 million.¡± Sister Song poked Li Zhen on the forehead with her finger, missing in her drunken state and poking near her ear instead. ¡°Are you dumb? Still over half a year until it expires, you could save 2.5 million! Whether it''s sexual coercion or an idiot boss, just endure it. Only idiots break contract and lose 2.5 million...no way around it...¡±

    Sister Song stumbled away swaying.

    With Sister Song saying that, Li Zhen''s hopes of early termination werepletely dashed.

    Her stomach felt ufortable. She staggered to the bathroom.

    After retching for a long time, nothing came up.

    She didn''t think she had drunk that much, so why was she so dizzy? Her throat burned painfully and her body felt hot.

    When she came out, Yu Sheng''s voice sounded in her ears. ¡°Drank that much?¡±

    Li Zhen''s face was flushed red from the alcohol. She frowned. ¡°Just a couple drinks, no need to worry Mr. Yu. Shouldn''t you be weing the new VP upstairs? Why are you lingering around me?¡±

    The new VP hadn''t arrived yet. Everyone else was upstairs waiting.

    Yu Sheng hade down just to check on her.

    ¡°Drinking away your troubles is useless. You should reflect on your own mistakes.¡± Yu Sheng''s tall figure approached her. He reflexively reached out to steady her, but stopped himself.

    ¡°Mr. Yu, don''t tell me you think I''m drinking away my sorrows from the divorce?¡± Li Zhen thought to herself that she was getting dizzier.

    ¡°Whether that''s the case or not, only you know clearly. I have no leisure to guess your thoughts.¡± Yu Sheng''s gaze fell coolly on her increasingly unsteady body.

    Li Zhen really was dizzy now. The alcohol had hit her hard.

    Yu Sheng in front of her doubled.

    She swayed and crashed to the ground, seeing stars.

    Yu Sheng looked down impassively at Li Zhen sprawled on the floor. ¡°Li Zhen, drink more carefully next time. When will you learn some self-control...¡±

    Li Zhen forced her eyes open to look up at Yu Sheng. Tipsily she said, ¡°I, Li Zhen, have always followed my heart. Never cared about self-control. Wasn''t I like this before? Don''t you remember?¡±

    Li Zhen thought, it was only these past few years that she had changed for him...

    Yu Sheng''s mind went nk for a moment.

    He suddenly recalled freshman orientation their first day of college. After giving a speech on stage as the new student representative, a girl had stopped him as he stepped down.

    All the school leaders on stage and thousands of new students below had goggled at the two of them.

    The sunlight that day was especially bright, fallingzily on the girl, entuating her elegant features.

    The girl had confessed her feelings to him, her tone sincere yet proud. The new students erupted, cheering ¡°Get together!¡±, ¡°Sis you''re awesome!¡±, ¡°Our role model!¡±, ¡°Kiss her!¡± despite the school leaders trying to calm them down.

    The cheers of several thousand youths rang out across the athletic field, an undying wave of their burning passion for life.

    Deafening. Neverending.

    What Yu Sheng had said to her then: ¡°Do you not know what kind of asion this is? Do you have no self-control?¡±

    The girl had blinked at him, extremely foxy and charming. ¡°I picked this asion on purpose. There will definitely be tons of girls chasing youter. I wanted to make the earliest, deepest impression on you!¡±

    She had said: ¡°School prince, my name is Li Zhen. Nice to meet you.¡±

    ¡°Oh, that''s right. I, Li Zhen, always follow my heart.¡±

    ¡°Never cared about self-control since I was little...¡±

    Yu Sheng closed his eyes, pulling his thoughts back to the present.

    He could overlook her usually unruly personality. And it wasn''t like they hadn''t fought before these past few years, with the longest cold warsting a month.

    But for her to make trouble for him now, when he was overwhelmed with work...

    He had to discipline her behavior!

    Lying on the ground, the whole world seemed upside down to Li Zhen.

    She watched as Yu Sheng nced at her once before leaving.

    Yu Sheng had walked quite far, almost around the corner, when a woman suddenly embraced him. ¡°Mr. Yu, you''re here too?¡±

    At that distance, a normal person wouldn''t be able to see clearly. But Li Zhen had always had freakishly good vision. She made out it was the woman who had shared wine with him in the private roomst time.

    Shey alone and ignored on the cold floor, watching from afar as the woman affectionately held onto Yu Sheng''s arm, pressing her chest against his elbow, chatting andughing together.

    Her eyes went a little sour, but she couldn''t cry. She said fiercely to herself: ¡°Just my trash ex-husband. Who cares!¡±

    Li Zhen felt so nauseated that her stomach churned when she saw the scene. She looked away, using the wall to slowly pull herself up. The dizziness made the whole world spin violently.

    Just as she was about to stand up straight, her hand slipped on the wall and her body fell backwards out of control!

    She thought she would crash down hard again.

    But suddenly, she felt a gentle yet firm force on her back, catching her steadily.

    "Be careful," said a low, unfamiliar, cold but maic male voice.

 Chapter 3: The Look of a Good Sleeper

    <h4>Chapter 3</h4>

    Li Zhen looked back and saw a man wearing gold-rimmed sses.

    The man''s features were dazzlingly handsome yet aloof, and the outline of his profile was extremely gentle.

    With one hand supporting her and the other draped over a suit jacket, his pitch ck belt cinched a light gray dress shirt, entuating his narrow yet powerful waist and abdomen.

    "Handsome, you look...very sleepable..." Li Zhen''s mind was rather hazy from the alcohol.

    "Thank you, I''ll take that as apliment," the manughed gently, bright as the autumn moon.

    Behind the gold-rimmed sses, the man''s pupils were a slightly lighter color than normal people''s, and he looked at people with an innate detachment.

    But Li Zhen felt like he was staring at her, his gaze clean yet sincere.

    The man said, "Let me help you over there to sit down."

    Then in her muddled state, Li Zhen felt that boiling hot palm on her back, inching down little by little.

    She felt her back and waist grow incredibly hot.

    "Your back is too delicate, you should eat more in your daily life..." The man''s voice was maic enough to make one''s ears tingle. The edges of his gold-rimmed sses gleamed tranquilly. "Why are you so nervous?"

    "I''m...not nervous..." Li Zhen''s breathing was very erratic.

    "Okay, you''re not nervous," the man chuckled.

    He slid his hand to her slender waist, grasping itpletely under his control.

    After helping her sit not too far away, the man finally retracted his hand. "Can you manage on your own?"

    "Yes." Li Zhen gazed up at him confusedly, nodding with great effort, her face flushed thoroughly.

    "Good." The man turned and left.

    -

    After the man departed, he headed towards the elevator.

    He was tall with long legs.

    His lean yet powerful legs were wrapped in well-fitted suit pants.

    His gait was rxed yet forceful.

    A few people were waiting for the man at the elevator - the head of Honghai Group''s Southwest Branch, Wang Peng, stood at the very front.

    Wang Peng, in his fifties, was very spirited. He patted the man familiarly on the shoulder and said, "Yanming, who did you see that you know?"

    Lu Yanmingughed lightly. Every tiny expression of his oozed nobility. "A junior schoolmate from my college days. She was drunk so I lent her a hand."

    As he spoke, Lu Yanming took out his phone.

    He sent Li Zhen''s photo to a cousin of the Lu family who was studying in Jincheng, along with an address.

    ¡¾She''s by the bathroom door on the first floor. Go get her and send her home.¡¿

    The reply came very swiftly: ¡¾I''m not free right now. Even if the earth was exploding I couldn''t get away.¡¿

    Lu Yanming: ¡¾This month, double your monthly allowance from the Lu family.¡¿

    The other side replied in a second:¡¾Be there in two minutes.¡¿

    Lu Yanming knew this cousin was quick, as he recalled she lived near this area.

    Lu Yanming: ¡¾After getting home, make her some hangover soup. She doesn''t like bitterness, remember to feed her some candy after she drinks it.¡¿

    -

    It took Yu Sheng quite a while to extricate himself from the person pestering him before he went upstairs, back to the door of their dining room.

    He gave some tip money to the server at the door. "Go downstairs to the bathroom door and look for a woman with long white shirt and hair in a braid. Stay with her, and have her drink some hangover soup."

    Remembering Li Zhen''s distaste for bitter tastes, Yu Sheng added, "Prepare some candy. Feed it to her when she wants it."

    The server happily epted the money and immediately headed downstairs.

    Yu Sheng pushed open the door to the dining room. Inside was a round table that could seat 30 people, all department heads of Honghai.

    Yu Shengughed heartily, "The vice president isn''t here yet?"

    Someone immediately responded, "He should be here soon."

    "Here he is, here he is," Wang Peng''s sonorous voice rang out at the door. "Yanming,e on in."

    "Sorry to have kept you all waiting," Lu Yanming followed Wang Peng into the room.

    His refined features were normally gentle, yet his entire being faintly exuded the detachment of one high above, making people subconsciously revere him.

    Seeing such a young vice president with such a powerful aura, everyone was stunned.

    But they were all department heads who had seen their share of storms, and they quickly reacted, standing up one by one after Lu Yanming was seated to respectfullye shake his hand.

    When Yu Sheng saw Lu Yanming, he froze for a moment too.

    He didn''t expect it to be him.

    Yu Sheng went up smiling, "Mr. Lu, I''m also an alumnus of A University. That makes me your schoolmate."

    Wang Peng eximed in surprise, "You two have that connection?"

    Someone hurried to chime in, "A University really produces talent! Mr. Lu and Mr. Yu have aplished so much at such young ages!"

    Lu Yanming''s long-fingered hand raised the teacup to lightly sip. He didn''t say anything.

    The atmosphere suddenly cooled.

    Everyone immediately quieted down.

    Yu Sheng''s brows furrowed.

    But the next second, Lu Yanming stood up and took the initiative to grasp Yu Sheng''s hand. "Mr. Yu is aplished at a young age. I admire that. If you need my support with anything work-rted in the future, feel free toe to me anytime."

    "Thank you, Mr. Lu." Yu Sheng hesitantly returned the handshake.

    Could he have imagined the hostility from earlier?

    Seeing this interaction, everyone understood what was going on.

    The new vice president seemed hard to get along with at first, but he was quite friendly towards Mr. Yu - he was even the only one the VP stood up to shake hands with!

    The atmosphere instantly became lively again. Everyone toasted Lu Yanming in turn.

    Wang Peng chatted with Lu Yanming at the side, "Yanming, wasn''t Samuel supposed toe? Howe you suddenly came instead yesterday?"

    "He had an urgentrge projecte upst minute that he couldn''t get away from, so I came in his ce," Lu Yanming replied.

    Wang Peng sighed internally.

    That Samuel really pulled one over him.

    If it had been Samuel, he would''ve gained a right hand man. But with Lu Yanming''s arrival, it was like greeting an ancestor!

    Feeling glum, Wang Peng nced at Yu Sheng who was only drinking tea and not alcohol. "Mr. Yu, have a drink with Yanming."

    Wang Peng genuinely liked Yu Sheng. He was young and driven, capable.

    He hoped Yu Sheng and Lu Yanming could get along well.

    Yu Sheng looked up and declined apologetically, "Mr. Wang, my wife drank too much with her friends today. I have to send her home and take care of herter. I really can''t drink today."

    He quickly added, "It''s my fault today. If it''s convenient for Mr. Lu tomorrow, I''d like to treat you to a private kitchen that just opened. We won''t stop drinking until we''re hammered."

    Wang Peng knew Yu Sheng was married, just not to whom. But he knew Yu Sheng treasured anything regarding his wife more than life itself.

    Wang Peng understood there was no persuading him to drink today, so he helped smooth things over. Laughing, he said to Lu Yanming, "Mr. Yu is famously doting when ites to his wife. When he''s away on business, the jewelry and cosmetics he buys for his wife are endless. When we chat during free time, he can''t go three sentences without mentioning his wife. I have no chance of getting him to drink today, so be sure to pour him a few more sses tomorrow."

    Lu Yanming had just been toasted. His hand with its distinct knuckles gingerly swirled the wine ss.

    The crimson liquid inside spun, contrasting with his increasingly pale hand.

    He set the wine ss down on the marble table neither gently nor forcefully.

    It made a soft "ding" sound.

    "Didn''t Mr. Yu just get divorced yesterday morning? Why is he still referring to her as his wife?"

 Chapter 4: The Little Brother at the Bar

    <h4>Chapter 4</h4>

    When everyone heard this, they were shocked immediately.

    Yu Sheng got divorced?

    In an instant, everyone looked towards Yu Sheng.

    Yu Sheng''s eyes darkened, extremely sharp, "Chairman Lu didn''t recognize me before, so how did he know about my divorce yesterday?"

    That''s right!

    Everyone nodded in their hearts, and looked towards this new vice president again.

    Lu Yanming''s expression was calm, with a sense of highly controlled calmness towards everything radiating from the inside out. "Yesterday my friend happened to see a man and a womaning out with a divorce certificate. She was so stunned by the man''s looks that she took a photo and gossiped to me about it."

    Oh, so that was it.

    Chairman Yu did look very handsome, and people often secretly took photos of him when he walked around.

    Everyone thought to themselves, so when Chairman Lu saw Yu Sheng today, he realized what a coincidence it was that the gossip subject yesterday was him.

    Knowing that Lu Yanming just happened to find out by chance, Yu Sheng let down his guard. "Chairman Lu, yesterday my wife was just being temperamental with me, so we had an impulsive big argument. It was my fault for upsetting her. In a few days when she cools off, we''ll make up and get our certificate again."

    Wang Peng was sitting right next to Lu Yanming.

    In that instant, he suddenly felt like the surrounding temperature had dropped several degrees, as if it was icy cold.

    Lu Yanming gave a shortugh, "Get the certificate again? Isn''t Chairman Yu thinking too simply? A broken mirror is hard to mend..."

    Yu Sheng''s face darkened. "Chairman Lu, what''s between her and I is none of your..."

    "Chairman Yu! Eat, don''t just chat." Wang Peng''s intuition sensed danger, and he interrupted Yu Sheng.

    Young people really had fiery tempers, fighting after just a few sentences.

    Wang Peng quickly changed the subject. "Yanming, there''s still a 160 square foot river view apartment dormitory avable next to thepany. Can you make do with that for now?"

    "No need, I already applied for the employee dorm in advance and got the key."

    Wang Peng: ... The other employee dorms are so small, can he live there? I don''t really understand, but if the young people are happy then that''s good.

    -

    Lu Yanming stood at the door, his suit jacket draped over his arm.

    He put down the luggage in his other hand, and took out the key from his suit pants pocket.

    His phone suddenly made a notification sound.

    A few messages came in session.

    [She was asleep before I left.]

    [But she seemed a little off, felt a bit hot.]

    [Go take a look at her after you''re done with work, see if she needs to go to the hospital.]

    [I''m retreating after aplishing my goal!]

    After putting his phone away, Lu Yanming inserted the key into the lock.

    As the door opened, his vision was met with darkness.

    He brought his luggage inside, trying to keep quiet so as not to disturb the sleeping person.

    The small, shabby apartment seemed even more cramped with his tall, slender figure inside.

    Suddenly.

    A soft moan sounded from the darkness, "Thirsty..."

    Lu Yanming''s heart thumped heavily. Following the sound, he looked towards the sofa.

    Faint moonlighting in through the window lightly covered Li Zhen''s body on the sofa.

    She seemed to have just taken a shower.

    All she had on was a thin towel.

    Barely wrapping around her perky chest, it entuated her full, alluring curves even more.

    Hearing someone''s voice, she hazily half sat up, her voice carrying a faint sobbing tone. "I want water..."

    But she only managed to sit up steadily for one second.

    She suddenly lost her bnce and lurched forward!

    Lu Yanming''s heart raced, he strode forward and swept her into his embrace with one arm.

    Li Zhen''s slender waist copsed, half her body pressed against him, as if she was actively offering herself up to him.

    With this sudden move, Li Zhen''s towel was barely hanging on. "Water...thirsty..."

    The scenery, half revealed and half concealed, entered Lu Yanming''s eyes without any defenses.

    Lu Yanming hadn''t expected to see this kind of scene, and the veins on his forehead pulsed violently.

    The first time seeing her today, her eyes were moist and charming as she told him he looked easy to sleep with.

    The second time, she just threw herself at him like this.

    He hade back intending to take it slow with her, but she was jumping around on the edge of his restraint and forbearance.

    Bullying an honest man wasn''t supposed to be like this.

    "Water, thirsty..." The restless squirming in his arms.

    Lu Yanming''s powerful big hand scooped up her waist and legs, lifted her effortlessly, and ced her back down on the sofa.

    Li Zhen instantly wrapped her hands and feet around him, hugging his neck as she looked up at him in a daze, mumbling: "Are you...the easy to sleep with little brother from the bar?"

    "I don''t remember your memory being this good before." The hands Lu Yanming used to hold her unconsciously tightened inch by inch.

    "Be good and lie still, I''m going to buy you some medicine..."

    He ced Li Zhen on the sofa, and was about to withdraw.

    "Don''t go..." But Li Zhen suddenly grabbed his shirt and pulled him down close to her, the corners of her eyes wet and red. "Little brother..."

    Her little hand clutching his shirt gradually slid down.

    Lu Yanming looked down at the little girl in his arms, andughed self-deprecatingly. "Don''t seduce me, I can''t handle it."

    With a "click", his belt came undone.

    Lu Yanming''s brow jumped. Enduring, he murmured: "If you keep moving, I won''t be able to hold back."

    Li Zhen''s face and neck were covered in sticky sweat, her voice light and trembling. "You''re also burning hot. I don''t want you..."

    She let go of her right hand, teased him and then tossed him aside.

    So hot, so thirsty, so empty.

    But she didn''t know what she needed.

    "You don''t want me? Who do you want?" Lu Yanming''s gaze was scorching, his voice gentle and somewhat hoarse.

    Suddenly, Li Zhen''s phone that had been on the coffee table rang. She reflexively reached for it and pressed answer.

    Yu Sheng hadn''t been able to find her for a long time, and his voice contained suppressed anger. "Where are you?"

    Lu Yanming''s eyes darkened slightly.

    His heart gradually sank.

    It was as if Lu Yanming returned to the time when she was still in college.

    She would asionally kiss Yu Sheng by thekeside, their hands tightly intertwined.

    Lu Yanming always stubbornly refused to leave, his gaze fixed on them as he watched the wind blow through her hair to reveal her blushing face, watched her shy expression as Yu Sheng kissed her.

    Hearing Yu Sheng''s annoying tone, Li Zhen angrily yelled: "Get lost!"

    With a "snap", Lu Yanming hung up the call for her!

    The next second, he leaned down and kissed Li Zhen.

    Propping up her upper body to press tightly against him, mimicking the way Yu Sheng used to kiss her, their hands sped together.

    It was as if they weren''t on the sofa, but by thekeside he had fantasized about day and night when he was younger.

    His chest was filled with the surging satisfaction, packed full.

    This sense ofplete control over her addicted him to the point of madness.

 Chapter 5: Noise, Kiss Me

    <h4>Chapter 5</h4>

    Lu Yanming kissed her fiercely until he felt the woman in his arms was almost out of breath. Only then did he let go.

    Li Zhen''s mind exploded like fireworks. "More..."

    This is what she needed to quench her thirst!

    Li Zhen eagerly tore open his shirt. "Kiss me again..."

    Li Zhen''s bath towel had already slipped off.

    "Zhen Zhen..." Lu Yanming ced his slightly cool fingertips on her chest, feeling her heartbeat.

    With the tips of their noses touching, their breaths mingled.

    His right hand guided her hand to control him.

    "If you want it, take action yourself. I''ll give you everything..."

    What Jusheng didn''t want was the deity to whom he had offered his whole heart as a sacrifice.

    It wasn''t toote. He and she still had decades of life ahead...

    "Keep calling my name... it sounds so nice..." Li Zhen''s mind was nk.

    She looked at the exquisitely handsome man before her and threw herself at him.

    But the man grabbed her wrists, stopping her actions. It was the pathetic desire of wanting something yet fearing to lose it. "First, let''s make it clear that I''m inexperienced and my skills may not be great. You can''tpare me to others. If you wake up and look down on me, I won''t stand for it. If you take me, you can''t abandon me."

    Li Zhen didn''t understand what the man was saying.

    She viciously grabbed his neat, short hair and red at him fiercely with her seductive red eyes.

    "Shut up and kiss me."

    ...

    Li Zhen had never felt so embarrassed that she wanted to disappear on the spot.

    When she woke up, her whole body felt like it had been run over by a truck, and unmentionable parts ached vaguely.

    The fragmented scenes in her mind shamefully reminded her of what had happenedst night.

    When she woke up and saw the man cleaning the house, she reacted when he brought her face washing water to the bed.

    "Close your eyes." He washed her face.

    "Raise your hands." He wiped her hands.

    "I found some clean clothes for you in the wardrobe by the bed. Get up and eat."

    "The sheets are stained red. I''ll change them after you get up."

    Not just the sheets were red, but her face too!

    Li Zhen really wanted to leave without saying a word.

    But now, sitting at the dining table and looking at the sumptuous breakfast before her, and seeing the luggage in the next room from the corner of her eye, she knew she had to make things clear.

    She had met this man twice, both times when she wasn''t sober.

    Now he sat opposite her, dressed impably in a suit. His handsome face was striking.

    Behind the gold-rimmed sses, his light-colored eyes quietly watched her. Morning light streamed through the dining room window and fell on his noble, tall figure.

    The whole person was bathed in light, dazzlingly eye-catching.

    Thinking that such a handsome guy had a wild night with her, she didn''t lose out.

    Li Zhen coughed and cleared her throat, screwing up her courage. "Let''s talk. Thanks for your hard work this morning...andst night..."

    Lu Yanming nodded at her, signaling for her to continue. He unbuttoned his top button, revealing his sexy Adam''s apple.

    Li Zhen swallowed.

    Wait. What was she about to say?

    She had actually recognized who this man was when she first saw him after waking up.

    Yesterday, she said she wanted to liven things up. The bartender must have misunderstood. Recalling the bartender''s words, she realized what she had drunk.

    That bartender was truly "reliable"!

    He gave her the strongest livening drink and found the "best" top escort.

    This man had worked hard all night. He considerately took care of her early in the morning and even moved his luggage over. Most importantly, he looked like a top escort from a high-end bar.

    His identity went without saying.

    Li Zhen remembered what she wanted to say. "I did ask your colleague at the barst night that I wanted to hire someone long-term..."

    "You want to hire someone...long-term?" Lu Yanming didn''t seem to be repeating the question back to her, but murmuring to himself.

    "No, no, no. What I mean is that I changed my mindter. Your colleague may not have conveyed it clearly. Anyway, I don''t need that anymore. How much do you charge per night? I''ll transfer the money to you and you can leave."

    After speaking, Li Zhen noticed the man''s light-colored eyes staring at her intently, making her feel uneasy about what he was thinking.

    She pretended to be calm and avoided his gaze, not daring to look him in the eye at all.

    After a long pause, Lu Yanming slowly spoke. "When I woke up this morning, my whole body felt like it had been run over by a truck, and unmentionable parts vaguely ached."

    Li Zhen: ?

    Why did it feel strange?

    Did men feel the same as women about bedroom matters?

    "You took me many timesst night," Lu Yanming lightly coughed and covered his mouth, seeming weak and exhausted despite his grace.

    Li Zhen immediately choked.

    That made sense...

    But no way!

    "50,000 yuan for one night? Are you a Leo? Why so greedy?" Even as a top escort, one night shouldn''t cost 50,000 yuan. She wasn''t stupid enough to be a sucker. "18,000 yuan t rate. Your skills weren''t that greatst night. I advise you not to make unreasonable demands."

    "Oh? Because my skills were so poor, you kept hugging me, kissing me, wanting me, and crying?" Lu Yanming drew out thest word, making one''s ears burn.

    "Shut up!" The blush on Li Zhen''s neck had spread to her ears. She red at him. "50,000 yuan, so 50,000 yuan. ount number!"

    Nothing this top escort said pleased her.

    Li Zhen opened her phone to transfer the money. Lu Yanming reported an ount number.

    "Full name."

    "Lu Yanming. The Lu beside the ear, Yan as in the word for melodious music at a spring terrace banquet, Ming as in bright sun and moon."

    Hearing this, Li Zhen looked up at him. "Little Lu, your name sounds kind of familiar."

    "Perhaps you did pay attention to me for a moment." Lu Yanming also looked at her. Behind the gold-rimmed sses, his eyes were a cool light color, but they contained profound emotions, like the deep sea.

    His deep gaze scalded Li Zhen, making her heart skip a beat uncontrobly.

    Wow, he really was a top escort.

    He was truly enticing!

    The two went downstairs. Li Zhen didn''t even nce at Lu Yanming and headed straight for the bus stop.

    After two minutes, she secretly looked back and saw that Lu Yanming was gone. He must have left already.

    Only then did she start wincing in pain. She had endured the excruciating pain with dignity all morning and could finally stop controlling her expression.

    She could still vaguely remember some scenes and feelings. Clearly their sizes didn''t match. It seemed that even excellent top escorts didn''t suit just anyone.

    "Beep!"

    A deep car horn sounded.

    She looked up.

    A pitch-ck Maybach had stopped in front of her. The window slowly rolled down to reveal the top escort''s clear and aloof face. "Get in the car."

    Li Zhen blinked twice, doubting this world for the first time.

    With his job, he could afford this car?

 Chapter 6: Expensive reason, I cover after-sales

    <h4>Chapter 6</h4>

    "Get in," Lu Yanming said again. Seeing that Li Zhen seemed to be in a daze, he strode out of the car, picked her up, and put her in the back seat before getting in himself from the other side.

    Fei Zhao, the driver, gaped in astonishment. His young master would carry a woman! He stuck his head out the window to check if the sun had risen from the west!

    It was only after getting in the car that Li Zhen reacted. "Stop the car. Let me get off. I still have to go to work."

    Lu Yanming: "It''s on the way. I''ll give you a ride."

    Seeing that they were indeed heading towards herpany, Li Zhen stayed put. Curious, she asked, "Young Master Lu, how do you earn so much money in your line of work? Enough to afford a Maybach? Your annual ie must be over a million, right?"

    Fei Zhao, the driver, couldn''t help but burst outughing.

    Joke of the year: The Lu family''s prince earning millions annually.

    Hearing theughter, Li Zhen realized btedly, "You even have a chauffeur?"

    "Well, the ie is decent. Having a car and driver makes sense since there are many generous yet lonely richdies like you." Lu Yanming smiled.

    "Young Master Lu, I paid for it fair and square today. I''m the client, you''re the service provider. Mind your manners and don''t talk to me sarcastically," Li Zhen retorted, detecting the mocking in his words about her haggling with him that morning.

    When the car was about a kilometer from herpany, she asked Fei Zhao to stop.

    She didn''t want to arrive in ostentatious style. With all the gossip in the office, she''d never hear the end of it if someone saw her getting out of this car.

    As she got off, her slender wrist was suddenly grabbed and something ced in her palm¨Da tube of ointment for torn tissues! Her face flushed crimson. "Why...why are you giving me this?"

    "You paid for it. You''re my client," said Lu Yanming from inside the car, his exquisite side profile radiant and handsome. "A premium service deserves premium care. I provide after-sales service."

    Fei Zhao craned his neck desperately to look in the rearview mirror, dying of curiosity about what medicine the young master bought from the pharmacy.

    "That little toothpick of yours can barely fill my teeth gaps. I''m perfectly fine. I don''t need it." Li Zhen quickly tossed the scalding hot potato back in.

    "Young Master Lu''s toothpick may be small, but it''s polite. This is its courtesy call to fill your teeth gaps." Lu Yanmingughed softly and put the ointment back in her hand.

    The car window closed.

    The car sped off.

    Li Zhen fumed, her head boiling over. Her flushed face was downright embarrassing. His normal words somehow sounded inappropriateing from him!

    Fei Zhao''s ears practically perked up as he desperately tried to decipher their cryptic banter.

    From the receding rearview mirror, Lu Yanming watched Li Zhen.

    Two mornings ago at 9:30 am, he had received the news of their divorce. Ten minutester, he assigned a major project to Samuel, hastily handed over his work in the next few hours, and flew here to take over the southwest China branch after Samuel left for abroad. Until now, he had been running on nerves without sleep for almost 50 hours straight.

    Lu Yanming''s eyes fluttered lightly beneath his noble features, concealing traces of fatigue not easily detected.

    -

    Honghai za was located on Tianfu Second Street in Jin Cheng High-Tech Zone. Every inch ofnd here was worth its weight in gold, housing southwest headquarters of many Fortune 500panies. Honghai was one of them.

    Li Zhen entered the advertising department and found everyone chatting excitedly about something.

    In a corner, her three best friends in thepany were huddled together.

    Li Zhen stretched her ears over. "What are you guys talking about?"

    The three turned and grew even more excited seeing her.

    Zhang Xiya pulled Li Zhen over to sit with them. Her gossipy gaze was practically glowing. "Little Zhen Zhen, our new deputy general manager arrivedst night!"

    "I know," Li Zhen said calmly.

    Wasn''t Yu Sheng outst night weing the new deputy GM?

    "No, Li Zhen. You don''t know," Meng Yuanjie said mysteriously. "Last night, Ke Mei, the great beauty from Public Rtions, went with the leaders to wee him. She secretly took a photo of the new deputy GM and shared it in their department group chat. The entire PR department exploded! Rumor has it the new deputy GM is very young and so handsome that he makes women''s legs go soft!"

    Li Zhen clicked her tongue derisively. "You''re a man. Why are you more gossipy than women! The deputy GM is a man. What''s it to you?"

    Meng Yuanjie rubbed his head andughed. "I''m speaking out for the women of other departments. PR is hogging the photo instead of sharing it, keeping everyone in suspense. How mean!"

    "Little Zhen Zhen, why don''t you ask Manager Yu to get it? PR will surely give it to him." Zhang Xiya grinned.

    Everyone in thepany knew Yu Sheng and Li Zhen were alumni from the same university. Yu Sheng was icy to everyone except his alumna Li Zhen, whom he treated slightly better.

    Even as a manager, Yu Shengmanded great prestige in Honghai with his ruthless tactics and rapid promotions. Everyone feared him somewhat.

    Now promoted to marketing director, he wielded more influence than even Wang Peng at times.

    The silent Qiao Yi finally spoke up, "It''s just a trivial thing. Why trouble Director Yu for it? You can''t take advantage of rtionships like that. Do you think Director Yu is easygoing?"

    Qiao Yi was a veteran colleague of many years. She had the most level-headed personality.

    After speaking, she checked thepany group chat. "A notice just went out for everyone to go downstairs immediately. The new deputy GM will be here in a few minutes."

    Zhang Xiya jumped up excitedly. "We get to see him in person! Let''s go, hurry!"

 Chapter 7: Tinsel Glasses Dress Vest

    <h4>Chapter 7</h4>

    Li Zhen and her group arrived at the first floor, where there was already a sea of people.

    Originally, everyone was curious about the new vice president, and the PR department had raised everyone''s appetite to the extreme. The Administrative Department lined everyone up on both sides, telling people when to apud and when to stop.

    There were many employees in Honghai Group. Zhang Xiya pulled them to squeeze to the very front of the crowd.

    Wang Peng waited by the roadside with a group of senior executives, and Yu Sheng stood right next to him.

    It was as if he had a sixth sense. Yu Sheng looked back and happened to meet Li Zhen''s eyes.

    Li Zhen hurriedly avoided his gaze.

    After finding the best front row position, Zhang Xiya was extremely excited, "Why is the scene so big today? Not only did all the employeese down to wee him, even President Wang came down in person."

    Qiao Yi nodded, "I''ve been with thepany for several years, and this is the first time. I think this new vice president must be a little different."

    "President Yu looks so handsome in that suit today, standing there like a big star," Zhang Xiya was into good looks, the kind that couldn''t take her eyes off handsome guys. She knew the gossip about handsome guys very timely. "But I heard that President Yu has been in a bad mood these past two days, and the entire Marketing Department didn''t even dare to breathe loudly."

    Meng Yuanjie: "The PR department made the new vice president sound so amazing. You guys say, can he be more handsome than President Yu? Although the new vice president''s name sounds quite nice, more intimate than President Yu''s."

    "Do you know the new vice president''s name?" Zhang Xiya asked.

    Meng Yuanjie waved his phone, "Thepany just sent it in the big group chat."

    Qiao Yi casually asked: "What''s his name? How should we address him?"

    Zhang Xiya opened the big group message to see, "Lu Yanming, President Lu."

    "It does sound quite nice..." Qiao Yi was speaking when Li Zhen next to her suddenly leaned on her.

    Li Zhen''s hand trembled slightly as she held onto Qiao Yi''s arm, and her voice was a little shaky, "It''s nothing, my legs went soft for a moment..." Xiya, what did you say the new vice president''s name was?"

    "Lu Yanming, President Lu," Zhang Xiya said concernedly: "Did you not eat breakfast and get anemic?"

    Li Zhen: "I''m fine..."

    There were too many people with the same name.

    How could she have thought for a moment that the top escort she was withst night would be Honghai''s new executive vice president.

    It must be because she didn''t sleep wellst night.

    And maybe their names just sounded the same.

    Li Zhen stood up straight, took out her phone, and was about to look up the characters of the new vice president''s name.

    Next to her came the low but clear murmur of her colleagues.

    "Is that the Maybach?"

    "The car stopped, yes it is, the vice president''s assistant got out to open the door for him."

    "The assistant is also very handsome!"

    Li Zhen''s heart thumped wildly. She thought, it can''t be him.

    There were too many people who liked to drive Maybachs.

    The top escort who had pestered her all night, washed her face and hands and made breakfast for her in the morning, and argued with her fiercely over 50,000 yuan escort fee with her.

    He could never be Honghai''s second inmand with tens of thousands of employees under him.

    Same name and same car, that''s all.

    Not far away, the rear door of the jet ck Maybach had already opened, and shiny designer leather shoesnded on the ground. The long and straight powerful legs steadied the ground.

    The nearly 1.9-meter tall figure carried a full sense of oppression. The white shirt, paired with a gentleman''s light gray vest, his right arm resting on a suit jacket of the same color series, his temperament was restrained and noble.

    The moment he appeared, there was an uncontroble gasp all around.

    A few secondster, the shocked discussion, as fine as gnats and mosquitoes, quickly spread.

    "Gold wire sses! Formal vest! My heart!"

    "The PR department really wasn''t exaggerating, my legs are already soft!"

    "Dream lover now has a face!"

    "Ahhh! He''s not the vice president, he''s my future husband!"

    Wang Peng hurried up to chat with him intimately and apanied him forward.

    There was a burst of warm, excited apuse all around.

    Li Zhen didn''t dare look up at the man walking over. She wanted to open thepany group chat to see the name, hoping the characters were different, then it must not be him.

    But she couldn''t click urately at all.

    Her hands were messy, her heart was messy, listening to Zhang Xiya''s muffled prairie dog screams "The vice president is so handsome I''m about to faint", her mind went nk.

    She shouldn''t be here. As long as she didn''t open the box, she wouldn''t need to know what was inside.

    She turned to try and escape, but she forgot her legs had already gone soft. With a little movement, she lost herst bit of support and lurched forward.

    "Be careful."

    Li Zhen''s arm was draped over another firm, lean arm.

    The familiar two words, the familiar low voice line, even the other person''s body temperature, were all intimately and heart-thumpingly hot.

    In an instant, everyone''s eyes fell on the intertwined arms, and the apuse stopped.

    Instant silence.

    The gazes cast over showed envy, jealousy, and surprise.

    Li Zhen looked up and met the other''s clean, cold, light eyes. Her fair forehead instantly broke out in fine sweat, and her voice trembled badly, "President Lu?"

    Lu Yanming smiled lightly, and said in a low voice that only the two of them could hear, "No need to be so polite, just call me Little Lu."

    Snap.

    Li Zhen heard the sound of her nerves breaking.

    She had really forced herself on herpany''s new vice presidentst night!

    It was over.

    The next second, a big hand pulled Li Zhen''s wrist away from Lu Yanming''s arm.

    It was Yu Sheng.

    Yu Sheng held her arm with one hand, and naturally supported her waist with the other, gently bearing her weight, "President Lu, this colleague is thepany''s hand model. Recently thepany hasunched many new products, and colleagues from the Advertising Department have been working overtime for several consecutive days without rest."

    Lu Yanming''s gaze slid over the hand Yu Sheng had around her waist.

    He looked at Li Zhen, his light eyes shining brightly, "Overwork should be avoided. You still have to sleep early at night, so you don''t weaken your body."

    After speaking, he turned and left.

    Everyone heard it as the new vice president''s caring words for his employee.

    But Li Zhen felt her scalp tingle as she recalled the fragmented scenes fromst night, when she had pressed him down and forced him to want her...

    What was originally a mary transaction had now be her maliciously forcing herself on him.

    Seeing the new vice president leave, Zhang Xiya and the others hurried over.

    "Little Zhen Zhen, are you alright?"

    "You should take the day off and rest today."

    "Li Zhen..."

    Li Zhen waved her hand, her face pale, "You guys go upstairs first, I''ll be fine after taking a break."

    Zhang Xiya still wanted to say something, but Qiao Yi pulled her and nced at Yu Sheng, whispering, "With President Yu here, stop worrying pointlessly..."

    Zhang Xiya suddenly realized, and quickly slipped away with everyone.

    With everyone gone, Yu Sheng was less restrained with his words, "This time you really need to learn your lesson about not drinking so much in the future."

    Yu Sheng had been worried yesterday when he was done with work and found that the server hadn''t stayed with her. He hurriedly called her, only to get a "get lost". Hearing her strong voice, he at least knew she was safe.

    Li Zhen''s mind was a mess, and didn''t pay any attention to what Yu Sheng was saying.

    Seeing her still spaced out, Yu Sheng thought she was hungover and feeling terrible. He brought her closer into his embrace as they walked forward.

    As Lu Yanming walked into the lobby and was about to turn into the elevator hall, he nced back at the two.

 Chapter 8: Who Were You Thinking

    <h4>Chapter 8</h4>

    "Let''s go, Yanming," Wang Peng said with a smile, "What are you looking at?"

    "Nothing," Lu Yanming drew back his gaze and followed everyone into the elevator.

    The elevator door slowly closed.

    At the veryst moment before it shutpletely, Lu Yanming''s long, slender fingers pressed the open button.

    "Director Wang, let''s call Director Yu as well. I''d like to hear the ideas of the marketing director at the meeting too."

    Wang Peng was stunned for a moment, then immediately instructed someone next to him, "Go get Director Yu toe over right now. And you escort that female colleague back to her office."

    When Li Zhen got back to her workstation, her mind was a mess.

    One moment she was worried about whether she could keep this job, the next moment she wondered if the vice president would let it go now that he had received money from her, and another moment she feared that he would deliberately make things difficult for her at work because he had lost face for being taken advantage of by a woman. She wanted to resign, but she couldn''t quit after being penalized a huge breach of contract fee by the management.

    "Li Zhen, let''s go, it''s time to eat," Zhang Xiya packed up her things and got ready to go to the cafeteria for lunch.

    "You guys go ahead, I''m not hungry today."

    "Alright."

    After everyone left the office, Li Zhen immediately slumped over the desk dejectedly.

    Her phone dinged indicating an iing message.

    She picked it up and saw that it was a friend request.

    When she opened it, the three words "Lu Yanming" appeared brightly.

    Her heart, which had calmed down a little, instantly felt like it was set on fire again. She became restless.

    Anyway, she would have to face this issue sooner orter!

    Besides, she had already paid him money, so it should be easier to smooth things over.

    Although she was mentally prepared, Li Zhen''s hands still shook uncontrobly when she tapped to ept his friend request.

    She took the initiative to message him first: You liar, you big scammer, were you just messing with me for fun this morning at my ce? If there''s something to say, say it. If not, get lost...

    Before she could finish typing, he already sent a message: [Come to my office.]

    Li Zhen quickly deleted what she was typing, and replied: [Okay, alright, Mr. Lu, I''ll be right there.]

    At the end, she even added a cute cat sticker.

    Li Zhen scolded herself inwardly. Her career life was about to be a living hell. She had to resort to ttery just to protect herself.

    Not daring to dy, she got up and headed over right away.

    "Knock knock knock..."

    When she arrived at the vice president''s office door, Li Zhen knocked three times. Hearing no movement inside, she carefully pushed the door open and went in.

    The office was very spacious with full-length floor-to-ceiling windows along one side facing the street.

    Lu Yanming stood in front of the window with his hands behind his back, his tall and straight figure was sturdy yet slender. With the view outside the windowpletely under his gaze, it gave people the illusion that the whole world was under his feet.

    "Mr. Lu..." Li Zhen forced a smile and said, "Regarding what happened yesterday, I''d like to exin..."

    Lu Yanming turned around. His facial features were extremely distinct and handsome. He slowly walked towards the desk and said, "Come here."

    "Mr. Lu, I didn''t know it was you yesterday, that''s why I made that mistake..." Li Zhen followed along cautiously.

    "You didn''t know it was me? Then who were you trying to sleep with originally?" Lu Yanming turned around suddenly. Caught off guard, Li Zhen bumped into his firm, chiseled jaw.

    She winced in pain as she rubbed her forehead, but right now she didn''t even have the mind to think about whether she was hurt or not. She hurriedly exined, "What I meant was... No no no, I didn''t have anyone in mind to sleep with originally!"

    "Oh, is that so?" Lu Yanming''s voice was maic. Even when speaking calmly, every word from him sounded elegant and pleasing to the ear.

    "Of course!" Li Zhen made a show of being extremely sincere.

    "A misunderstanding? It can''t be called a misunderstanding when a huge mistake has been made..." Lu Yanming picked up his suit jacket that was draped over the leather executive chair andid it out t to pad the surface of his solid wood desk.

    In one swift motion, Lu Yanming flipped Li Zhen''s skirt up. With his hands around her waist, he ced her on top of his suit jacket on the desk.

    "That''s why we need tomunicate and exin..." Li Zhen let out an awkwardugh, trying her best to stay calm. "Besides, you already epted money from me today... Hey, what are you doing Mr. Lu?"

    The cool sensation beneath made Li Zhen nce down, and her blood pressure instantly shot up!

    She was sitting on his desk.

    Her skirt had been flipped up at some point without her noticing.

    Lu Yanming said, "What do you think?"

    He put on disposable gloves with his right hand, applied ointment on his fingertips, and said, "I told you to apply the medication, howe you didn''t?"

    One secondter.

    "Mr. Lu!"

    Her legs trembled slightly, and her heart felt like it was about to leap out of her throat.

    She hurriedly grabbed his powerful, sturdy wrist and said in a quivering voice, "You...stop for a moment..."

    Li Zhen''s face was as red as if she had just been fished out of hot water. Her neck and earlobes glistened with fine beads of sweat. The corners of her eyes were tinged red, appearing moist and tempting.

    "I don''t want to hear your exnations, is that okay?" Lu Yanming asked politely, ruthlessly rejecting her request.

    Li Zhen: ......

    With his light colored eyes fixed intently on the thoroughly flushed Li Zhen instead of looking at his hand, Lu Yanming said faintly, "Besides, I remember..."

    Li Zhen''s face turned even redder as she quickly covered Lu Yanming''s mouth. "Just apply the medication, please don''t say anything more..."

    She wished the world would just end right there and then.

    Li Zhen wanted to escape Earth!

    After a short while, Lu Yanming threw the gloves in the trash can and carefully helped Li Zhen tidy up her clothes before carrying her to sit on the sofa.

    Li Zhen curled up tightly, trying to minimize her presence as much as possible.

    Yet her eyes couldn''t help but dart towards the trash can.

    Li Zhen grabbed some paper and covered it.

    Then she threw in some more paper.

    And even more paper.

    A faint, amused chuckle escaped Lu Yanming''s throat. "Stop throwing stuff. If the trash is filled with paper after youe to my office just once, it wouldn''t sound good if word got out."

    Li Zhen froze immediately.

    Lu Yanming casually poured two sses of water and smiled as he ced one in front of her. "Have some water."

    Li Zhen picked it up and chugged down the entire ss in one go. But her eyes inadvertently nced down at the area below Lu Yanming''s lower abdomen. A mouthful of water spurted out. "Mr. Lu, you..."

    "Sorry, the toothpick has a mind of its own," Lu Yanming said as his long, straight fingers elegantly toyed with the ss in his hand. He sat down gracefully, lightly leaning against the back of the sofa.

    He exuded an aura of nobility that was untouchable.

    "It''s still bearable, I can endure it." He stated tly.

    Li Zhen lowered her head, feeling extremely awkward and wanting to rocket off into outer space.

    With a perfectly calm expression, Lu Yanming asked, "Done with the water?"

    Li Zhen''s back instantly straightened. Finally, they could get to proper business. "Yes, I''m done Mr. Lu. I''d like to exin to you about what happenedst night."

    "I experienced it firsthand, I know what happened. So you don''t need to exin. Since you''ve finished your water,e with me to a ce." Lu Yanming stood up. His tall figure towered in front of her.

    Li Zhen nced down at his bulging area. Her delicate brows suddenly furrowed together. "Mr. Lu, what do you take me for?!"

    "Don''t worry, I''m not taking you to get a room." The corners of Lu Yanming''s lips curled up as his light colored eyes nced at her fleetingly, stirring up a tititing itch that was neither too heavy nor too light. "What exactly is going through your mind all day?"

    Having her inner thoughts pointed out, Li Zhen blushed in embarrassment.

    But with him reacting so strongly, bulging down there, and asking her to go with him, anyone''s mind would wander.

    Still reluctant, Li Zhen followed Lu Yanming.

    When they arrived, she was dumbfounded.

    The police station?

    Sensing something amiss as they were about to step in, Li Zhen grabbed Lu Yanming''s arm. "Mr. Lu, perfectly fine people don''t just casually go to the police station!"

    "You solicited mest night, so I''m bringing you to voluntarily admit your wrongdoing." Lu Yanming stopped in his tracks and looked at her sideways, as if this was only natural.

    Li Zhen stood frozen on the spot, unable to react for a long time.

    He was going to sacrifice his employee for a just cause!

    "I didn''t! Last night I was..." A sh of inspiration hit her and she quickly reminded him, "Mr. Lu, if you think I solicited you, doesn''t that make you a prostit..."

    Lu Yanming: "Yes, that''s why I''m here too, right?"

    Li Zhen was stunned speechless for a long time.

    Eventually, she stared at him with wide eyes and gave him an admiring thumbs up.

    "If you''re not named Mudville''s Top 10 Good Citizens of the Year at this year''s awards ceremony, I''m not watching."

 Chapter 9: Wait Get Married

    <h4>Chapter 9</h4>

    "If I''m lucky enough to be selected, I''ll let you know in advance," Lu Yanming said with a faint smile, his tone humble.

    After speaking, he strode towards the interior.

    Li Zhen was shocked. She grabbed his arm again, exerting all her strength. "Mr. Lu, listen to me. Last night was really a misunderstanding. I didn''t mean to..."

    "If you make a mistake, you get punished, regardless of whether it was intentional or not," said Lu Yanming. His shirt concealed lean, powerful muscles that easily shook her off.

    Li Zhen was so angry she got a headache. "Mr. Lu! There''s no evidence fromst night left. There are no surveince cameras at home or eyewitnesses. You don''t have any proof!"

    As a precaution, although Lu Yanming had cleaned the house early in the morning, she still hired a cleaning service to thoroughly clean again after she left for work, just in case he tried to frame her.

    She felt guilty for mistakenly thinking he was someone elsest night and wanted to properly exin things to him. But she didn''t expect the vice president of a corporate group to be so petty as to want to drag her to jail with him!

    Li Zhen took a step closer and unabashedly grabbed his cor. "I called you Mr. Lu out of respect. Don''t go too far!"

    The angry little kitten bared its tender fangs.

    Lu Yanming''s smile deepened, looking thoughtful. "But you forgot you transferred me money today. Isn''t that evidence?"

    "Would I make such a low-level mistake? Look closely at the memo for my transfer. It says ''borrowed money!''"

    "Not too stupid..." Lu Yanming smiled and took out his phone, ying a recording. "But how do you exin this?"

    [Fifty thousand. Retail and wholesale prices are different.]

    [Eighteen thousand, t rate. Don''t ask too much given your poor skillsst night.]

    [Oh, it''s because my skills were so bad that you kept hugging me, kissing me, wanting me, and crying?]

    Li Zhen''s expression gradually stiffened.

    He actually recorded it!

    Lu Yanming looked on with a smile. "As the executive vice president, I really can''t swallow being coerced by a little hand model like you. Did you think I was some useless mascot sent by headquarters to just put up with it?"

    "Hahaha..." Li Zhen stopped the recording andughed sincerely, but it was uglier than crying. "Mr. Lu, I respect and admire you the most. How could I ever think you were a mascot?"

    "Is that so? It seems you''re in a good mood now and are giving me a lot of face."

    Yes, a good mood! So good that her heart was bleeding!

    Why did she have to provoke him of all people?

    This was difficult!

    Li Zhen tried her best to keep her expression natural. "Mr. Lu is joking. Let''s settlest night''s affairs privately, Mr. Lu. Tell me your demands."

    Lu Yanming stood impassively, his posture particrly tall and straight, emanating a noble, aloof air like an immortal spirit.

    His eyes swept over her lightly, as if saying: What could you possibly offer me?

    Li Zhen gritted her teeth and said, "Mr. Lu, ifst night really upset you, how about sleeping with me again tonight to get your face back?"

    Compared to being confined for ten days and thepany knowing she slept with the vice president, she''d rather be bitten by the dog again.

    Lu Yanming still didn''t speak.

    Li Zhen pleaded, "Then what else can we do?"

    Lu Yanming: "Marry me."

    Hearing him finally speak, Li Zhen immediately nodded excitedly: "Okay, okay...wait, marry?"

    "Yes, marry," Lu Yanming enunciated.

    Li Zhen''s thoughts were suddenly disrupted by him. Recalling their first meeting yesterday to now, every sentence he uttered gave her goosebumps, either angering her, embarrassing her, or like just now, leaving her baffled.

    "I still know which is better, being restricted for life or for ten days," Li Zhen thought. "Let''s go turn ourselves in."

    But as she stepped forward, Lu Yanming grabbed her slender wrist. "My family is forcing me to marry. I just need a wife in name."

    "Mr. Lu, I Li Zhen have principles. I absolutely won''t joke about marriage or help you deceive your family!"

    Just as the two were at an impasse, a tall, handsome policeman in uniform came out of the station.

    The handsome policeman spoke with solemnity yet gentleness. "You two have been tugging at each other out here for a while. What are you doing?"

    Lu Yanming: "Hello officer, I want to report..."

    "Hubby!" Li Zhen''s heart thudded. She stood on tiptoes and covered his mouth. "Hubby, we''re going to get our marriage certificate, right? Let''s go, the civil affairs bureau will close soon..."

    Her soft little hand firmly pressed Lu Yanming''s lips. Underneath, the corners of Lu Yanming''s thin lips curved up imperceptibly. Last night he was willing, while she was an ident. Where was the wrong in that?

    Li Zhen pulled Lu Yanming away hurriedly.

    Lu Yanming was ruthless!

    What enmity or resentment did they have? Sleeping together as consenting adults was no big deal! Yet he wanted to drag her down with him!

    After shoving Lu Yanming into the car, Li Zhen got in the passenger seat. She hesitated for a long time before cautiously saying: "Mr. Lu, you must be quite wealthy. Since this is a sham marriage, we should sign a prenup. But there''s no time today, so how about another day?"

    "Just a bit of money that I don''t need. Do you need it?" Lu Yanming buckled his seatbelt, his expression aloof and handsome as always.

    He seemed to never have emotional fluctuations, as if everything was under his control.

    Li Zhen fell silent.

    He drove a Maserati and was apany vice president with a sry she couldn''t fathom.

    Meanwhile, she had no house or car and only made 400,000 yuan annually. How could she say she needed a prenup to protect her assets?

    Li Zhen''s eyes lit up. "But I didn''t bring my ID card. We''ll have to do it another day!"

    "I brought yours. I picked it up this morning in passing," said Lu Yanming as he started the car. The Maserati rumbled deeply.

    Li Zhen clenched her fists in anger!

    Her ID card was in the side drawer of her closet, locked, with the key on the bottom shelf of her nightstand.

    His hand sure worked quickly!

 Chapter 10: Sister Cow b, Three days for two.

    <h4>Chapter 10</h4>

    Li Zhen still struggled, "President Lu, you have to pick a good day to get married, otherwise it''s unlucky."

    "I lookedst night, today is the best date in the next six months."

    Li Zhen: "..."

    No wonder he could be vice president!

    She was convinced!

    In her bag was a marriage certificate, burning Li Zhen''s heart with pain.

    What a coincidence, the one who gave her the marriage certificate today was the same person who gave her the divorce certificate the day before yesterday.

    The female colleague''s eyes were wide, with an expression of "Sister, you''re awesome, changing two in three days!"

    Li Zhen thought Lu Yanming was really ruthless. He took her to the police station and didn''t give her a moment to breathe or consider.

    She also didn''t know if there were any pitfalls in this fake marriage.

    He said it was just her asionally cooperating to act, the marriage certificate was a prop for him to deal with his family, it had no constraints or obligations for her.

    Li Zhen was still uneasy. After dealing with Lu Yanming for two days, she was already afraid of him, always feeling like he was plotting something bad to trap her.

    As she walked, her head suddenly bumped into a human wall.

    "What are you thinking? Not looking where you''re going?" Yu Sheng''s icy voice fell.

    Li Zhen looked at the man in front and rubbed her forehead, it really hurt.

    Yu Sheng''s suit today was all ck, with a crisp white shirt inside, very fitting, the ck and white perfectly set off his handsome and cold arrogance.

    "Does it still hurt?" Yu Sheng sighed lightly and reached out to rub Li Zhen''s head.

    Li Zhen took a step back to dodge his touch, looked up at the floor, it was the advertising department, she didn''t go to the wrong ce, "If you have anything to do in the advertising department, you can find our director or manager. I''m going in first."

    Li Zhen wanted to get around Yu Sheng, but he blocked her way, "It''s Dad''s birthday banquet today, he wants us to go back to the Li family mansion for dinner."

    Li Zhen paused, "I''m not going back, you don''t need to take care of Li''s affairs anymore, and don''t call him Dad anymore."

    She was an illegitimate daughter. At her father Li Yinnan''s previous birthday banquets, he practically forced her to hide, unwilling to let her appear at any important Li family asion.

    This time it wasn''t that his conscience was awakened, Li Zhen knew, it was because of Yu Sheng.

    A year ago, Li Zhen had a secret wedding and got a certificate, Li Yinnan got the news from somewhere, and angrily told her to bring her secret husband home, demanding they divorce immediately.

    But when Li Yinnan saw Yu Sheng, his attitude changed dramatically.

    It was then that Li Zhen realized that Yu Sheng, who she had been dating for years while working at Honghai, was actually the eldest son of the prominent Jin Cheng Yu family.

    The Jin Cheng Yu family.

    Even the oblivious Li Zhen knew these four words represented boundless wealth and reverberating power.

    Li Yinnan often said things about social circles in her ear, saying the Li family was a prestigious family in Jin Cheng, saying Li Zhen was unruly and disgraced the Li family. But after seeing Yu Sheng, he said she was destined for good fortune, and could connect the prominent Li and Yu families through marriage.

    Li Zhen didn''t understand anything about social circles or prominent families, she just felt that Yu Sheng''s name was enough for Li Yinnan to stop interfering in her marriage, which was good.

    But now, she and Yu Sheng were divorced, nothing mattered anymore.

    Yu Sheng: "It wasn''t Dad who asked us to go back, it was Grandfather. His health hasn''t been goodtely, he probably misses you."

    Li Zhen pursed her lips, "Okay, I know. I''ll go back myself, and I''ll tell him not to contact you again in the future."

    After speaking, Li Zhen entered the office.

    Li Zhen''s mother passed away when she was too young to remember. She lived with her grandparents since she was little. When she was twelve, her grandmother passed away, and her grandfather''s health suddenly deteriorated.

    Her grandfather was taken back to the Li family mansion by Li Yinnan to be cared for.

    Since then, she always lived on campus, rarely going to the Li family.

    She didn''t care about anyone in the Li family, except for her grandfather who raised her.

    If her grandfather asked her to go back, she didn''t want to defy his wishes. It was just right, she also wanted to tell her grandfather about her divorce from Yu Sheng in person.

    -

    After work, Li Zhen took a taxi to the Li family.

    The Li family was located in a vi area near the west gate of Jin Cheng, secluded amid the hustle and bustle.

    The front yard of the vi was extremely lively at this time, with elegant Western food, borate atmospheric lights, and waiters carrying trays of wineing and going.

    Li Zhen went in,pletely uninterested in the lively front yard, and walked into the vi, wanting to go upstairs to the third floor to find her grandfather, but ran headlong into Li Yinnan''s daughter Li Yanran.

    Li Yanran was wearing an extravagant evening gown, her made-up face revealing a hint of disdain, "What are you doing here?"

    Li Zhen had always been toozy to pay attention to her, and continued upstairs.

    In the past, if Li Zhen didn''t respond to Li Yanran''s words, Li Yanran would have exploded, but this time she just coughed and unnaturally asked, "Howe it''s just you alone? Where''s Brother Yu Sheng?"

    "Brother Yu Sheng?" Li Zhen couldn''t help but stop andugh, "You''re so intimate calling him that, your tone is full of affection, I wonder, do you have your eye on your sister''s husband?"

    "What nonsense are you talking about! How could I possibly..." With Li Zhen bluntly and rudely pointing out her inner thoughts, Li Yanran''s face instantly turned red with embarrassment.

    The next second, she red at Li Zhen angrily again, "Don''t think everyone is a slut like your mother, seducing someone else''s husband!"

    Li Zhenughed breezily, "Last time in the backyard, you took the initiative to throw yourself at Yu Sheng and he pushed you away, you looked pretty slutty too."

    "You...saw that?" Li Yanran''s face instantly turned white.

    "It''s not quite right to say I saw it, I filmed it." Li Zhen leisurely raised her eyebrows, slowly went upstairs, and said as she walked, "Next time your mouth is disrespectful to my mother again, I''ll send that video of you to your fianc¨¦."

    The terrified Li Yanran was still stunned there, but Li Zhen had already gone upstairs.

    Old Master Li was pottering with the flowers and nts on his balcony, his hair white but spirit vigorous. Seeing his granddaughtere, he quickly beckoned her over, "Zhen''er you''re here? Come quick, look at the peonies your grandfather just nted!"

    Li Zhen slumped into the wicker chair, "Grandpa, if you didn''t say it was a peony, I really wouldn''t have recognized it."

    "You little rascal! Are you implying my skills are no good?" Old Master Li red at her, "Why don''t youe help me nt flowers more often!"

    "Spare me, I''m all thumbs..." Seeing Old Master Li''s mood seemed not bad, Li Zhen tentatively brought up, "Grandpa, I have something to tell you..."

    Before Li Zhen could finish, her father Li Yinnan suddenly walked in, his voice sonorous: "I also have something to discuss with you."

    Li Yinnan was over fifty, with a steady and dignified bearing, the shrewdness of a sessful businessman after years steeping in themercial world.

    His gaze surveyed behind Li Zhen, didn''t see Yu Sheng, his eyes dimmed slightly.

    But it was only one or two seconds before Li Yinnan immediately regained his usualposure, "Yu Sheng didn''te today?"

    Li Zhen: "He and I have already..."

    But was interrupted by Li Yinnan before she could finish.

    "Never mind, he''s busy with work, I won''t pry." Li Yinnan took out a document, "Look at this contract first."

    Li Zhen took it doubtfully and flipped through it, her brows raised slightly, "Giving me 1.2% of Li''s shares?"

    Li Yinnan: "Read the prerequisite carefully, you have to give birth to the Li family''s grandchild within a year."

 Chapter 11: Shares, Sheâ€™s Taking Them.

    <h4>Chapter 11</h4>

    Li Zhen flipped through the thin contract. The terms were simple and clear.

    She could hardly believe that this was from Li Yinnan, who had always been stingy towards her.

    Li Group operated many five-star hotels, as well as furniture factories, building material factories, home furnishing malls, etc., and had done very well in the southwest region of China.

    1.2% of Li''s shares would easily yield tens of millions in annual dividends.

    Old Master Li nodded eagerly to his granddaughter, afraid that Li Zhen would change her mind and reject it.

    Li Zhen gave her grandfather a faint smile to reassure him.

    When Li Yanran married into the Yun family, she and her mother had made a big fuss with Li Yinnan many times, wanting 0.3% of Li''s shares as a dowry. Li Yinnan had not agreed, and only promised 8 million cash, a vi, and a car for the wedding.

    Li Zhen thought about how furious Li Yanran and her mother would be when they found out she had obtained Li''s shares, and found this contract particrly interesting.

    Seeing that Li Zhen had been silent for a long time, Li Yinnan tapped on the contract, "You should be able to see that this contract has no unnecessaryplications. I''m very sincere. Your grandfather is also getting older, and his only wish is for four generations under one roof. Your brother Yufeng is focused on the group''s affairs, and still unmarried. Your younger sister Yanran just got engaged, and the wedding date is not set yet. You''re the only one who''s already married."

    Li Yinnan stared at Li Zhen. The more prominent the family, the more they valued their lineage. Now that Li Zhen had ties with the Yu family, the bond would be forever inseparable.

    Take Li Zhen for example. Even if she was Li''s illegitimate daughter, Old Master Li had raised her with his own hands.

    Let alone, Li Zhen was Yu Sheng''s legal wife. Once they had children, the inws bond between the Yu and Li families would be strengthened.

    Feelings are not eternal, but blood ties are.

    Li Zhen sneered inwardly. Li Yinnan sounded high-minded, but everything he did was for the sake of the Yu family.

    She and Yu Sheng had a secret marriage, and the Yu family had never announced her existence. Li Yinnan was worried, and wanted her to have children soon to tie down the Yu family through motherhood.

    Although she and Yu Sheng were divorced, the contract only stated that Li Zhen had to give birth to a child, and did not specify who the father had to be.

    How easy!

    "Alright, I''ll have a child within a year!" Li Zhen waved her hand grandly and signed her name. Then she cautiously said, "Dad, please sign in front of me too. I''ll bring back an original copy."

    Li Yinnan picked up the pen but hesitated for a moment. "Yu Sheng didn''te today. You two didn''t have a falling out, did you?"

    Li Zhen''s heart skipped a beat, but she remained calm on the surface. "Of course not, he''s just busy with work."

    When Li Zhen was with Yu Sheng before, Li Yinnan could see how much Yu Sheng cared about her, and their rtionship seemed very stable. So to appear simply caring for Li Zhen rather than the Yu family, he did not specify in the contract that the child''s father must be Yu Sheng.

    But since Yu Sheng was absent today, Li Yinnan felt uncertain. If the couple''s rtionship soured, Li Zhen could take advantage of this loophole in the contract...

    Li Yinnan put down his pen. "Let me revise the contract first before signing..."

    "Dad..." Just then, Li Yanran suddenly appeared at the door. Her delicate face had a coy look. "Brother Yu Sheng is here. He''s looking for you!"

    "He''s here?" A rare delight appeared on Li Yinnan''s staid face.

    At this point, Li Zhen didn''t care why Yu Sheng hade. She quickly grabbed the pen and put it in Li Yinnan''s hand. "Dad, please sign it. Don''t keep Yu Sheng waiting too long downstairs."

    Li Yinnan looked at the contract, still hesitant.

    Li Yanran was anxious. "Dad, Brother Yu Sheng brought you so many gifts. He''s so thoughtful, hurry downstairs."

    Li Yinnan''s brows rxed and he signed his name. "Zhen''er, I''m waiting for your good news."

    "Okay." Li Zhen picked up a copy, still flustered, and put it in her bag.

    That was close!

    Li Yinnan almost caught on.

    She had secured these 1.2% shares!

    She had wanted a child for a long time anyway. With 1.2% of Li''s shares, she could be a single mom with money and leisure to apany her child, live with grandfather and give him the best life in his twilight years, and piss off Li Yanran and her mother.

    Her future suddenly looked incredibly bright!

    Li Yinnan hurried downstairs with Li Yanran.

    Only then did Li Zhen realize something was wrong. She had divorced Yu Sheng and told him not toe anymore. Why did he still show up?

    "Grandpa, I''lle keep youpany againter. I''m going downstairs to take a look first."

    "Go on, don''t worry about me." Old Master Li looked spirited, but his legs were no longer agile and he rarely went out or downstairs.

    -

    Yu Sheng had already passed through the lively front yard and entered the first floor of the vi. Seeing the three of theme down, he smiled and said, "Dad, I got held up at work and camete."

    Calling Li Yinnan "Dad" put Li Zhen''s heart at ease.

    This meant Yu Sheng would not tell Li Yinnan about their divorce for now.

    "Notte at all, the banquet hasn''t officially started yet." Li Yinnan patted Yu Sheng warmly on the shoulder.

    "Brother Yu Sheng." Li Yanran sidled up, her tone coy as if she could squeeze out water.

    "Mm." Yu Sheng responded with little expression, then handed the gifts in his hands to Li Zhen. "Help Dad take these and put them away."

    Yu Sheng nced at her, neither cold nor warm.

    Near the end of work, Yu Sheng had messaged Li Zhen to wait for him in the basement garage at thepany. He waited for a long time without seeing anyone, called her phone which went unanswered, and finally called Zhang Xiya to find out she had already left.

    In Yu Sheng''s mind, no matter how serious the quarrel between husband and wife, they could not show it in front of elders.

    She always acted without due consideration.

    His anger dissipated a little.

    Li Yanran watched Yu Sheng and Li Zhen''s intimacy with murderous hatred in her heart, but could only force a smile on the surface.

    Li Zhen went to put away the gifts. Li Yinnan took Yu Sheng to greet the guests.

    Yu Sheng was well-dressed and cultured, with the refinement subtly nurtured only in prestigious families. He was at ease andposed.

    Although it was a birthday banquet, most of the guests Li Yinnan had invited today were his business partners.

    A couple came to toast Li Yinnan and looked at Yu Sheng curiously. "Mr. Li, who is this...?"

    "This is my daughter''s good friend, Yu Sheng. He''s a junior marketing director at Honghai Group." Li Yinnan picked up a wine ss and handed it to Yu Sheng. "Little Yu, this is Mr. and Mrs. Wang. Here, have a drink with these elders."

    Li Yinnan was a businessman who knew how to gauge situations. He would not reveal anything about Yu Sheng and Li Zhen''s marriage before the Yu family announced it, otherwise it would only displease the Yu family and affect future rtions between their families.

    The Yu family was a century-old prominent n who always kept a low profile, so almost no one recognized Yu Sheng.

    Therefore, Li Yinnan would not tell outsiders of Yu Sheng''s identity as the Yu family''s eldest son, nor spread news of their marriage.

    Yu Sheng raised his ss respectfully to the couple. Unlike his sharp aura at work, he had the humble manners of a junior. "Mr. Wang, Mrs. Wang, I saw your interview inst month''s Jincheng Economic Monthly and greatly admire you. Meeting you both today is an honor for me."

    Perceptive people could instantly understand that being introduced as the daughter''s good friend and apanying Li Yinnan at the birthday banquet, he was most likely the future Li family son-inw.

    Plus, Yu Sheng''s words stroked Mr. Wang''s ego perfectly. He immediately raised his ss in return. "Director Yu is talented and promising."

    After some polite conversation, the couple left. Then a steady middle-aged male voice sounded, "Little Yu?"

    Li Yinnan turned around. The speaker was Song Fu.

    Song Fu was in real estate. He had recently started developing a veryrgeplex for luxury furnished apartments, and manypanies supplying construction materials and home furnishings were bidding on it.

    Li Group was one of them.

    Li Yinnan instantly became more cordial. "Mr. Song, please rx today. Sorry I haven''t attended to you well enough. Please bear with me."

    "You''re too kind, Mr. Li." Song Fu''s attention waspletely on Yu Sheng as he asked warmly, "You''re Yu Sheng, little Yu?"

    Li Yinnan looked at them in surprise, not expecting someone to recognize Yu Sheng.

    Yu Sheng sized him up but had no recollection at all. "You are...?"

    "Is it really you?" Song Fu was delighted and said with a smile: "I came to the Yu family for your high school graduation and college entrance celebration banquet. There were so many people that day, you must not remember me. ording to our seniority, you should call me uncle."

    Song Fu was a distant rtive of the Yu family.

    At Yu Sheng''s college entrance celebration banquet, which was also hising-of-age ceremony, the Yu family held a grand banquet and reception where Song Fu finally had a chance to visit the Yu family for the first time in years.

    At first nce, he didn''t recognize the Yu family''s heir who was here with Li Yinnan to receive the guests.

 Chapter 12: My Wait will Never Have an End

    <h4>Chapter 12</h4>

    Yu Sheng readily went along with it, "Uncle Song."

    Song Fuughed and said, "I''m actually a very distant rtive of the Yu family. By calling me Uncle Song, I''ll just have to shamelessly ept it... Oh right, what brings you here today?"

    Yu Sheng stayed silent and looked to Li Yinnan, passing the decision of how to introduce him to Li Yinnan.

    Li Yinnan immediately said, "Little Yu is a good friend of my daughter''s. She happened to be free today and came to apany me."

    "Oh, I see..." Song Fu''s gaze shifted between the two of them as he thought over Li Yinnan''s words and soon guessed the general idea. "Director Li, young people are busy at this time. My daughter loves to make a fuss. She''s invited some pianists and cellists over to my house tomorrow night to hold a small musical soir¨¦e. Directors Wang and Li are also bringing their young generations over tomorrow to liven things up. If Director Li is free, do bring your family and Little Yu over to sit for a while."

    "Well... Little Yu was just promoted recently and is a bit busy..." Li Yinnan never made decisions on Yu Sheng''s behalf.

    Knowing that this was Song Fu trying to get on Yu Sheng''s good side, Li Yinnan wouldn''t ruin the still unstable father-inw rtionship between him and Yu Sheng over such a trivial matter.

    Li Yinnan was very clear on what weighed more or less.

    "Yes, young people are busy at this time," said Song Fu, looking disappointed. He thenughed and said, "If Little Yu can''t make it, Director Li, do bring your family if you''re free to sit for a while... I saw the Li Corporation also bid on the interior furnishing tender for my new development. It''d be good if Director Li and I can properly chat about it tomorrow night..."

    "I''d definitely make it if I have a chance to exchange more with Director Song." Li Yinnan was immediately delighted inside but kept a calm and unmoved exterior.

    The marriage between Li Zhen and Yu Sheng wasn''t announced to the public yet. With just a guess, Song Fu had already generously offered coboration.

    Li Yinnan could already envision how the Li family would prosper once the rtionship between the Li and Yu families was settled.

    Listening to the two''s conversation and seeing Li Yinnan''s expression, Yu Sheng also understood the rtionship dynamics.

    "Uncle Song, I''m free tomorrow. I can make it," Yu Sheng timely spoke up. After speaking, he lowered his voice by Li Yinnan''s ear, "Dad, I''lle over after work tomorrow with Zhen."

    Li Yinnan nodded slightly. "Good, you and Zhen are usually busy with work. Treat tomorrow night as a chance to rx."

    With Yu Sheng showing up, it would signify his close ties with the Li family. For this tender of Song Fu''s, Li Yinnan knew it was practically guaranteed.

    -

    After the soir¨¦e ended, Yu Sheng called a chauffeured car and sent Li Zhen to her apartment building.

    He pressed at his temples, revealing some fatigue after the socializing. "You didn''t eat anything all night. If you''re hungry, order takeout when you get home. I still have to go back to work overtime and can''t apany you to eat."

    "Okay," Li Zhen nodded and got out of the car.

    Li Zhen looked back at Yu Sheng. He looked cold on the outside and aggressive, but actually had very good control over his emotions and wouldn''t get angry easily.

    But with her, his temper came and went as it pleased. Getting unintentionally hurt by him when he lost his temper was normal to her now. She was used to it.

    At least they were divorced now.

    "Wait." Yu Sheng followed Li Zhen out of the car and took out a small, long box. "The fountain pen you ordered online arrived. I brought it over, worrying you''d need it urgently."

    "Thanks." Li Zhen epted it.

    The night breeze gently blew past Li Zhen''s hair tips with an unusual sense of disarrayed beauty. But her shoulders were too bony. Yu Sheng always worried the wind would blow cold on her.

    Yu Sheng took off his suit jacket and draped it over her shoulders. "Still living here okay?"

    If she conceded and softened up, Yu Sheng would take her home right now and let it go this time.

    He had originally thought letting her live alone could make her reflect more. And he could focus on work these busy days with peace of mind.

    But every night going home without her in bed, he always slept rather uneasily.

    "I''m not cold." Li Zhen immediately took off his jacket and threw it back into his car through the window, truthfully saying, "I''m living very well here, sleeping better than when I lived with you."

    Yu Sheng''s brows sunk. He grabbed her arm and pinned her against the car door. "Don''t say things like this to provoke me!"

    He couldn''t stand hearing Li Zhen say she was better off without him.

    Even if it was false.

    "Let go of me first." Li Zhen was held in his embrace, not daring to speak recklessly.

    Sometimes Yu Sheng''s hands were merciless. She had no energy today to deal with him.

    So she softened her tone to divert the topic. "Thank you for the help today. You don''t need to go to my dad''s anymore next time. I can handle it myself... Mm!"

    Yu Sheng was so angry he single-handedly ripped off his tie and stuffed it in her mouth. "Fine, since you''re acting so tough, just keep living here then!"

    And she could handle it herself next time?

    How long was she nning to be at odds with him!

    When Li Zhen got home, she didn''t even turn on the lights. She threw down her bag and rushed into the bathroom to brush her teeth.

    She had lived here alone for two years before marrying Yu Sheng. Everything was too familiar. She vigorously brushed in the dark.

    That jerk of a man!

    Not knowing if his tie was clean or dirty, just stuffing it in her mouth!

    Thinking back now, that kick was still too light.

    She should have kicked him to death!

    After brushing her teeth, Li Zhen felt much better. She went into the living room and turned on the lights. "Ah! Director Lu!"

    When she had lived alone, she had momentarily forgotten someone else lived in the apartment now.

    Suddenly turning on the lights and seeing someone sitting on the sofa, Li Zhen was so frightened she nearly scared her soul away. "Director Lu, why didn''t you turn on the lights?"

    The person on the sofa had no reaction.

    From Li Zhen''s angle, she could only see Lu Yanming''s slightly tilted back head and his long, sturdy arms draped over the sofa.

    His tall figure was half-reclined on the sofa. The thin gold rims of his sses had ayer of faint light under themplight, appearing exceptionally noble andzily elegant.

    Li Zhen thought he had fallen asleep. But after two seconds, the silent man on the sofa stood up. "I just lit some candles earlier, so I didn''t turn on the lights."

    Only then did Li Zhen notice the red wine on the small dining table, burnt-out candles, abundant food, and the "Double Happiness" sticky note on the window.

    "Director Lu, you prepared all this?"

    Li Zhen was surprised inside. Weren''t they just fake married today?

    Wasn''t Lu Yanming being too thoughtful?

    "I originally nned to make it look real when you got back to take photos and show the family." Lu Yanming''s expression was tranquil, his tone normal. He went to tidy up the bowls and chopsticks on the table. "Didn''t expect you secretly ate out without me knowing."

    These words sounded rather odd.

    Like an arrogant little wife waiting for her husband to get home.

    Li Zhen didn''t have the mind to analyze it closely. Looking at the delicious food, she just felt hungrier. She swallowed and said, "I didn''t know you were waiting for me. Next time you need me to coordinate, let me know beforehand. Can you not clear these dishes yet? I didn''t eat out and am a bit hungry..."

    "No, it''s toote now." Lu Yanming took it all away. When he passed by Li Zhen again, he caught a whiff of a familiar cologne scent he knew well.

    This was the cologne Yu Sheng had loved using since university.

    He lowered his eyes and went into the kitchen.

    Li Zhen watched his back view. She hurriedly grabbed the sweet and sour pork ribs on the table that hadn''t been cleared yet.

    Mm! So fragrant!

    From the breakfast this morning, she already knew Lu Yanming was a good cook. These sweet and sour pork ribs were even more amazing!

    She hurriedly took another piece!

    Just as she wanted to take a third piece, a pair of big, long hands ruthlessly took away the entire te. "No eating."

    Li Zhen wanted to reach out and grab it back. But when she raised her arm, she felt some pain.

    Lifting her sleeve to look, the spot on her arm Yu Sheng had grabbed showed a circle of deep red and hurt when she moved or bumped it.

    Yu Sheng looked cold on the outside and aggressive, but actually had very good control over his emotions and wouldn''t get angry easily.

    But with her, he would lose his temper at any time. Getting unintentionally injured when he lost his temper was normal. Li Zhen was used to it.

    Fortunately they were divorced now.

    Li Zhen followed Lu Yanming into the kitchen. Her head squeezed up in front of Lu Yanming''s. Her bright, ck pair of eyes blinked pleadingly. Her mouth was still full chewing the rib piece from earlier.

    "Director Lu, let''s negotiate. I''ll wash up and do dishes. Can you leave the rib te for me..."

    "Spit it out." Lu Yanming''s fingers went into Li Zhen''s mouth and took out the rib piece, throwing it away.

    Li Zhen red wide-eyed in shock. "Aren''t you being too petty? If you wouldn''t agree, fine. But you even took away what I was eating?"

    Lu Yanming put a te of ribs into the microwave. With a "ding", he turned on the switch and lightly sighed. "Don''t eat cold food."

    Li Zhen was stunned for a moment.

    If she had made dinner and decorated tonight while waiting for someone who didn''te back, she would definitely be angry. But Lu Yanming didn''t seem angry at all. He even thoughtfully heated the food for her.

    Li Zhen put on an apron to wash dishes. She first applied hand cream and wore dish washing gloves.

    As she washed, she happily teased him. "Didn''t Director Lu say it was toote and wouldn''t let me eat?"

    "For you..." Lu Yanming''s voice was low and gentle, echoing faintly in the small kitchen, "My wait will never have a time limit."

    Li Zhen''s heart thumped heavily once.

    Her dishwashing motions subconsciously stopped.

    She then heard him say in a light tone: "You are my tool wife. I have always treated partners well."

    Her heart returned to its original ce.

    Li Zhen thought Lu Yanming''s voice would be such a waste if he didn''t be a voice actor.

    Even an ordinary sentence sounded like it could make one''s heart beat fastering from him.

    Li Zhen, who had been lost inplex thoughts all night, suddenly remembered something important!

    A child!

    She wanted a child. Wasn''t there a ready-made tool man beside her?

    She helped him deal with his family''s pressure to get married.

    He helped her have a child.

    Mutually beneficial!

    Li Zhen sized up Lu Yanming carefully.

    With this look, temperament, height, and the useful brain she could never beat, and having already be the vice president of Honghai Corporation at such a young age.

    Where else could she find such outstanding genes?

    It was a pity he wore sses. She didn''t know if his degree was high or not, would it be hereditary?

    Oh well, nothing was ever perfect.

    As Li Zhen washed the dishes, Lu Yanming fed her side by side, a piece of pork rib, a sip of red wine. Unknowingly, a whole te of pork ribs was gone.

    When Lu Yanming handed the te to Li Zhen, he noticed her staring straight at him.

    "What''s the matter?" Lu Yanming held out the te again.

    Li Zhen didn''t take it. She asked in a small voice, "President Lu, shall we do it?"

    "nk!" The te in Lu Yanming''s hand fell to the floor.

 Chapter 13: Tonight is Our Wedding Night.

    <h4>Chapter 13</h4>

    The loud bang frightened Li Zhen and caused her to jump back two steps.

    "Such a big reaction?" Lu Yanming slowly squatted down to pick up the fragments, the shirt at his waist and abdomen stretched taut, the narrow lines radiating a sense of power as hard as iron.

    "You think about things between men and women all day, don''t indulge too much or it will be detrimental to your health."

    "I''m twenty-six, and it was justst night, you call that indulgence?" Li Zhen retorted, her gaze falling on Lu Yanming''s waist, a faint blush appearing on her face.

    Lu Yanming stood up, having swept up thest bits of debris, "Yes, but you wanted it four times in one night."

    "Last night...I couldn''t control that..." Li Zhen''s face grew even redder.

    Her skin was so fair it glowed, any hint of red stood out vividly.

    Lu Yanming''s attention shifted to her earlobes, tinged red against the creamy white skin of her neck.

    Although slim, her flesh was distributed in all the right ces, with an apron tied in a slender strip around her waist, every curve of her figure clearly defined.

    Protruding where it should protrude, and indented where it should be indented.

    "I know," Lu Yanming''s Adam''s apple bobbed lightly, his voice growing hoarse, "So you should rest well tonight, you still have to work tomorrow."

    Work?

    With 1.2% of Liyi Group''s shares, Li Zhen spent her days apanying her grandfather and child sightseeing and frolicking. Skipping work was up to her, who cared about adding bricks and tiles to the luxury cars and mansions of capitalist bosses?

    Her motto was to make merry while she could, it wasn''t as if she was ving away for a job she actually enjoyed.

    Thinking of her grandfather and child, Li Zhen was suddenly emboldened. She walked up to Lu Yanming, grasped his hand and ced it on her chest, "President Lu, tonight is our wedding night, we must seize the moment."

    The light color of Lu Yanming''s eyes behind his sses gradually darkened, his blood beginning to boil.

    He looked down at Li Zhen.

    She feigned nonchnce, when in fact her racing heart was betraying her nervousness and shyness under his broad palm.

    "President Lu..." Li Zhen called softly to him, the red wine stain on her lips not yet faded, her moist crimson lips appearing fragile and delicate.

    Conveying vulnerability, as if they would break with a bite.

    So easy to conquer.

    She didn''t know that in Lu Yanming''s eyes, she now resembled amb delivering itself to ughter, letting him have his way.

    Lu Yanming bent down slightly, bringing their faces so close their breaths intertwined, "One whole tray of pork ribs isn''t enough to satisfy you? You''re too greedy..."

    The scalding air hitting Li Zhen''s ear instantly made her blush and go weak at the knees.

    But she stubbornly retorted, "Quit the tough talk and get to it."

    "Trying to provoke me?" Lu Yanming chuckled lightly. He removed his sses and ced them on the nearby counter, then grasped her slender waist and pressed her against the cold wall of the kitchen.

    Li Zhen was momentarily stunned.

    With his sses on he appeared gentle and refined, she hadn''t expected that without the tempering effect of the wire-rimmed lenses, his eyes would exude such overpowering, seductive desire.

    They were eyes that could easily intoxicate anyone.

    "Don''t worry, if you want it, I''ll give it to you," Lu Yanming''s eyes smiled as he lowered his head to kiss her.

    Afterwards, Li Zheny limply on the bed, her mind hazy.

    It took a good half a day for her to regain her senses. Her peripheral vision caught Lu Yanming in the midst of wiping himself off.

    Li Zhen abruptly sat up, "President Lu, what are you wiping?"

    "I''m wiping..." Lu Yanming said, casting her a nce.

    Li Zhen was shocked speechless by his directness.

    He was wiping not her...but her 1.2% stake in Liyi Group!

    She must have been too caught up that Lu Yanming didn''t get absorbed in it. She had to learn from this experience!

    Li Zhen grabbed his hand, "President Lu, let''s go again!"

    Lu Yanming''s motions came to an abrupt halt as heughed lightly, "You kept me up for five hoursst night, and again until one in the morning today. Can you give me a break? Gluttony is not a good habit."

    Li Zhen''s face alternated between green and red, the temperature of embarrassment rising ever higher on her face, "My needs aren''t that extreme, right? Or are you not up for it, President Lu?"

    Unable to admit her own awkwardness, she could only inflict mental damage on others!

    "Yes, I''m not up for it," Lu Yanming nodded.

    After three days and two nights without sleep, if he went another round with her, there would only be two pounds left of him tomorrow, coffin included.

    Li Zhen instantly understood, "It''s okay, President Lu, don''t feel inferior, I''ll replenish you tomorrow!"

    "Alright, tomorrow you can replenish me," Lu Yanmingughed softly. He picked her up and kissed her affectionately, "For now, let me draw you a bath..."

    Lu Yanming''s kiss made Li Zhen''s heart tremble.

    His dominant yet gentle demeanor from start to finish this evening fully met her expectations.

    After Lu Yanming bathed Li Zhen, she fell asleep two seconds after getting into bed.

    He ced the marriage certificate under her pillow, thenid down and wrapped her soft body in his embrace.

    Outside the window, the wind blew through the branches, producing a clear yet low rustling sound.

    The room was immersed in tranquil intimacy.

    It had been seven years.

    He had never dared to hope for today.

    Lu Yanming rested his head in the crook of Li Zhen''s neck.

    It gave him a sense offort, like a weary bird returning to its nest.

    "Zhen Zhen, you''ve given me all this, can you please not take it back..."

    ...

    Li Zhen sleptte but extremely well.

    Having promised to replenish Lu Yanming, she got up early in the morning to go to the market, then came home to cook soup.

    Seeing that it was almost time to go to work and Lu Yanming was still asleep.

    As expected, he wasn''t up for it physically!

    It didn''t matter if the deputy CEO overslept, he didn''t have to clock in for duty anyway.

    Li Zhen didn''t wake him and left for work herself.

    The dozens of elevators in Honghai za were still crowded even during peak rush hour. As Li Zhen entered the elevator, she heard the other upants discussing yesterday''s meeting with the new deputy CEO.

    Li Zhen pieced together the gist of it.

    Yesterday was Lu Yanming''s first day on the job. He had convened a meeting and ruthlessly axed several projects.

    Two disgruntled veteran executives objected, but he incisively pinpointed the crux of the issues in just a few sentences.

    They were all overlooked but extremely important details.

    Everyone was convinced.

    A young woman standing in the middle of the elevator spoke with admiring eyes, "I was sitting in the corner taking meeting minutes for our finance department. When I heard President Lu''s final remark, ''Paying attention to finer details is key to aplishing things, let''s all work hard together, meeting adjourned,'' my little heart was simply captivated..."

    Li Zhen automatically visualized the scene in her mind.

    A young and handsome executive with power and status, subduing the crowd of seniors with just a few words.

    To a young woman just entering the workce, it was indeed very easy to stir her heart.

    Someone jokingly remarked, "Even if your heart is stirred, you can''t act on it. Thepany prohibits office romances."

    Honghai forbid in-house rtionships. If discovered, both would be fired.

    But everyone knew some people must be secretly dating or even married in hiding, and most concealed it very well.

    This was also why Li Zhen and Yu Sheng had a hidden marriage back then, to avoid suspicion at Honghai.

    The young woman''s small face flushed as she said, "If I could be with President Lu, I''d be willing to lose this job."

    Li Zhen couldn''t help but chime in, "Giving up your career for a man is unreliable thinking. Women should always rely on themselves. Besides, President Lu isn''t perfect either, he...has no stamina."

    Li Zhen silently apologized to Lu Yanming in her heart.

    To save a confused colleague befuddled by him, she could only reveal some harsh truths and shatter her illusions.

    The girl eximed in surprise, "Sister, how do you know?"

    Li Zhen: "Cough cough...I also heard it from others, but the information is reliable!"

    What she witnessed with her own eyes could not be more true.

    Lu Yanming only went once yesterday, and today he couldn''t even get out of bed!

    "With President Lu''s great physique, I didn''t expect him to be a case of appearances being deceiving. It must negatively impact married life. If my friend wanted to marry such a man, I''d definitely advise her against it," the girl slowly remarked, a hint of disappointment in her eyes.

    Li Zhen nodded approvingly, she had saved another lostmb.

    The next second, the girl shyly said, "She can''t marry him, but I can!"

    Li Zhen: ......

 Chapter 14: The Feast of Men

    <h4>Chapter 14</h4>

    After hearing what the girl said, everyone in the elevator instantly burst intoughter.

    "That''s right, just Lu''s legs, hands and waist are long enough, he doesn''t even need to perform well!" I could just spontaneouslybust, okay!"

    "I''m good enough myself, I don''t need him to perform well!"

    "I''m an expert, if he''s no good I''ll teach him..."

    Everyone was revealing their perversion in their coy words, full of anticipation in their unfinished sentences.

    Their words were simply outrageous like thunder.

    Li Zhen: ...... One elevator, ten love-crazed females, excuse me while I take my leave.

    When she got to the advertising department floor, Li Zhen fled from the elevator as if escaping.

    Entering the office, Li Zhen put down her bag, and saw Meng Yuanjie and Zhang Xiya sitting opposite her, heads lowered while chatting about something, asionally covering their mouths andughing.

    Li Zhen came back with a cup of water, and saw the two still chatting.

    She tapped Zhang Xiya, "Howe you two get more and more excited every day!"

    Zhang Xiya quickly got up and mysteriously came to Li Zhen''s side, "Earth-shattering news."

    "You can have a hundred earth-shattering news items every day." Li Zhen calmly drank her water.

    Zhang Xiya: "President Lu is a five second man."

    "Pfft..."

    Li Zhen sprayed a mouthful of water onto herputer screen, eyes wide open, "What the heck?"

    Zhang Xiya was very satisfied with her reaction, "See, I told you this was earth-shattering news! President Lu''s waist like a public dog yesterday when he got out of the car and entered the headquarters building, a lot of people took photos as cell phone wallpaper! Who would have thought, he''s a five second man!"

    "Who did you hear this from? Who spread it?" Li Zhen found it unbelievable.

    "Who else needs to spread it? Everyone in thepany already knows, a knowledgeable miss just said so in the elevator, she swore it''s true!"

    Li Zhen who had just gotten off the elevator a few minutes ago waspletely confused.

    It had already spread in just a few minutes?

    Also!

    When did she ever say five seconds!

    Li Zhen looked left and right, lowered her voice and asked: "Who''s that miss, does anyone know?"

    "Who cares who that miss is, we''re just here to eat melon." Zhang Xiya was totally unconcerned, as a senior member, she wore it like a badge of honor.

    Li Zhen found it very hard toprehend this kind of behavior, "Thepany cracks down so hard on work conduct, aren''t you afraid the discipline department will catch everyone and deduct your performance?"

    Zhang Xiya giggled, "We''re not afraid, the HR manager and director are in the group..."

    Li Zhen: ...... You guys are something!

    The 41 year old confirmed bachelorette HR director was meticulous and steady in her work, didn''t expect her to also love gossip about handsome men?

    The HR manager was in the group too, even more preposterous, he was a gym buff who also loved to watch?

    The looks of Lu Yanming and Wu Sheng really were attractive to all men and women, young and old.

    Li Zhen sighed: "Looks like you guys don''t have enough work, Macro Ocean still isn''tpetitive enough this year..."

    "Do you want to join the group?"

    "Do I look like I have nothing to do?"

    "Alright, you''re missing out on a source of happiness." Zhang Xiya reluctantly turned around, but her sleeve was suddenly grabbed by Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen: "Um, cough cough, send me the group link..."

    At noon, Li Zhen went to thepany cafeteria on the third floor together with Zhang Xiya and the others.

    Macro Ocean''s benefits had always been great, the employee cafeteria dishes were different everyday, and tasted extremely good, clean and hygienic too.

    Lu Yanming and Wang Peng entered the employee cafeteria and sat at a window side seat.

    No matter where Lu Yanming went in thepany, he would attract people''s gaze, especially now with the conspicuous pink thermal lunch box in front of him, drawing even more attention.

    This was the breakfast Li Zhen had left a note saying she made for him, put in a thermal lunchbox and left on the dining table.

    Lu Yanming had slept in, gotten up toote, and brought it directly to thepany without drinking.

    After Wang Peng sat down, he kept touching his nose, kept looking at passing employees.

    Clearly wanting to say something but hesitating.

    "Director Wang, is there....something?" Lu Yanming used paper towels to wipe the cafeteria chopsticks clean, cing them to the side.

    "That, Yanming," Wang Peng found it very difficult to bring up, but he was over a decade older than the young man in front of him, if he didn''t help the younger generation with this kind of matter, who would be more suitable, "Do you have any personal troubles, things you can''t ask others for help with, you can chat with me about them."

    "Personal troubles?" Lu Yanming looked confused.

    "That is...in that area..." Wang Peng hemmed and hawed.

    The wholepany was spreading today that Lu Yanming was a five second man. Wang Peng didn''t believe it at first, after all Lu Yanming looked like he would be very capable in that area.

    But too many people were saying it, he had no choice but to believe.

    Lu Yanming nodded in realization, although not understanding why this topic came up suddenly, "I don''t have any issues in that area."

    He didn''t know before whether he was capable or not.

    But from Li Zhen''s reactions the past two nights...

    He should be quite capable.

    Extremely capable.

    "Yanming, you don''t have to put on a brave front before me, I know some remedies, supplements with very good effects." Wang Peng spoke earnestly.

    "I''m fine, don''t need supplements." Lu Yanming smiled wryly, opening the pink thermal lunchbox with his long slender hands.

    The fishy smell of deer tendon soup instantly drifted out.

    Wang Peng: ......

    Lu Yanming: ......

    Wang Peng quickly shifted his gaze, pretending not to have seen it, then took out his phone and forwarded a few links, "Yanming, I''m sending you a few prescriptions, they don''t have much effect, just aid sleep."

    Young people, still too concerned about face.

    Won''t say anything when asked directly, but secretly brings supplements.

    "Ding ding", Lu Yanming''s phone on the table lit up several times, the titles of the links Wang Peng sent were very eye-catching.

    ¡¾10 days one course of treatment, three courses will make her fall in love with you again¡¿.

    ¡¾Men never say die, click the link to help you disy your male prowess¡¿.

    ¡¾Don''t be afraid, being positive is easy, three tricks to build a real macho man¡¿.

    After pondering for two seconds, and connecting Wang Peng''s sudden concern, Lu Yanming finally realized the problem was likely there.

    He scanned the cafeteria, Li Zhen was happily eating her meal.

    Zhang Xiya gnawed on a fried chicken leg, the cafeteria''s signature dish, mumbling, "Look, Director Wang is actually apanying President Lu to eat in the cafeteria."

    Wang Peng was nearing retirement age,ing to thepany three times a week in the past two years was already considered diligent. But ever since Lu Yanming arrived, he could be seen apanying Lu Yanming almost everyday.

    "You guys look, that pink thermal lunchbox in President Lu''s hands shes so much. Also super cute." Meng Yuanjie leaned his elbows on the table, slowly drinking soup.

    Qiao Yi looked back, "You can see clearly from so far away?"

    "Can''t see clearly, it was sent in the group." Meng Yuanjie opened his phone to a picture, cing it in front of Qiao Yi''s eyes.

    On it was clearly Lu Yanming''s pink thermal lunchbox, and the tantly exaggerated font: ¡¾Five second confirmation! President Lu is actually drinking deer tendon soup to replenish!¡¿

    ¡¾Spread the word, President Lu doesn''t perform well!¡¿

 Chapter 15: Iâ€™ve already thought of a Baby name.

    <h4>Chapter 15</h4>

    Li Zhen was still confused.

    Sitting next to her, Li Zhen saw the words clearly and eximed, "Meng Yuanjie! Why did you join this group?"

    "Everyone has a gossipy nature," Meng Yuanjie was startled by Li Zhen''s loud voice and quickly put away his phone.

    Zhang Xiya had already sent the QR code for the "Macho Banquet" group to Li Zhen, but Li Zhen hadn''t joined yet. She took a quick nce at the number of people in the group chat on Meng Yuanjie''s phone, and it was already over 300!

    And these 300+ people were going crazy talking about Lu Yanmingsting five seconds.

    Li Zhen felt embarrassed for Lu Yanming.

    As the instigator, Li Zhen decided to look at this optimistically, "Don''t most colleagues no longer obsess over President Lu anymore?"

    After all, only a minority of people in the elevator didn''t care about a man''s ability.

    It was also a relief for Lu Yanming.

    "On the contrary!" Zhang Xiya swallowed the chicken leg, her eyes lit up excitedly, "Everyone used to think President Lu was too perfect, an untouchable flower on the cliff. Knowing President Lu has such a big w, many colleagues are eager to try to bring down President Lu to save him in his suffering!"

    "The group exploded, everyone has already thought of names for the kids with President Lu," Meng Yuanjie happily ate melon seeds without taking his eyes off the messages in the group.

    Zhang Xiya: "Everyone has also given President Lu a very affectionate nickname: Five-Second God."

    Li Zhen: ...How affectionate! They really don''t treat him like an outsider!

    She lowered her head and ate silently, not wanting to speak anymore.

    "Is this seat taken?"

    The familiar deep male voice came, and the four looked up at once.

    "President Yu?" Meng Yuanjie was stunned at first.

    Suddenly remembering that he still had the "Macho Banquet" screen on his phone.

    He quickly flipped his phone face down with a p.

    Meng Yuanjie: "President Yu, no one is sitting here, please have a seat."

    Zhang Xiya and Qiao Yi also eximed in unison: "President Yu."

    Yu Sheng nodded slightly, which counted as greeting everyone, and sat down in the empty seat next to Li Zhen.

    Yu Sheng was tall and muscr, with deep ck eyes faintly sinking, his presence was too strong and daunting.

    The originally chattering few people suddenly became as quiet as chickens.

    They all lowered their heads to focus on their meals.

    Li Zhen''s hair stood on end!

    When they secretly married at thepany, she would lower her head when passing by him, afraid someone would find any clues.

    Even after the divorce, she still reflexively resisted getting too close to Yu Sheng at thepany.

    "I''m done eating, I''ll go first..." Li Zhen shrank her neck, preparing to slip away, but her wrist was suddenly gripped.

    Li Zhen stared at him, conveying her nervousness with frown and blinking eyes.

    But Yu Sheng did not let go, maintaining a firmly controlling posture, his dark eyes cold and handsome, "You have no appetite today? Eating so little, have a couple more bites."

    Li Zhen jerked her hand but didn''t pull it loose.

    The other three immediately stared at the two''s sped wrists, their eyes wide open in shock.

    Qiao Yi suddenly got up with an awkwardugh, "We''re done eating, Li Zhen, President Yu, take your time."

    Meng Yuanjie also hurriedly cleaned up his utensils, "I''m done too..."

    Zhang Xiya stared at Li Zhen and Yu Sheng with confusion, while happily eating her chicken leg.

    "Didn''t you just say you were full? Hurry up and go," Qiao Yi said resentfully as she pulled Zhang Xiya up.

    Zhang Xiya was puzzled, "When did I say..."

    Meng Yuanjie covered her mouth, "You did, hurry up and go!"

    After the three left, Li Zhen couldn''t hold in her anger anymore. She heavily put down her chopsticks and said, "Yu Sheng!"

    Then she looked around worriedly again, lowered her voice and said, "What are you doing? Even if we''re divorced, we''ll still both be fired if it''s discovered we were secretly married. Don''t you know?"

    Being fired directly would be great.

    But it was also a breach of contract!

    The liquidated damages for Yu Sheng as a marketing employee were negligible.

    But Li Zhen''s were 2.5 million!

    "Is that so? I thought since you didn''t reply to my messages, you were forcing me to find you in person at thepany." Yu Sheng let go of her hand, his gaze growing even colder.

    Yesterday he had messaged her, and she didn''t reply at all.

    She also didn''t reply to this morning''s message.

    Li Zhen''s chin tilted up slightly, and she spoke with some momentum, "Why are you still messaging me after the divorce?"

    "Li Zhen, don''t tell me you blocked me?" Yu Sheng said, and saw Li Zhen''s slightly raised chin gradually lower, looking guilty.

    Yu Sheng: "You really blocked me?"

    "But I didn''t block your call..." Li Zhen avoided Yu Sheng''s murderous gaze and lowered her head to eat.

    She had blocked Yu Sheng''s messages when moving after the divorce.

    The two hadn''t exchanged a word in the ten days before the divorce, how could she expect Grandpa Li and her dad to keep finding her and Yu Sheng these past two days, and Yu Sheng had agreed every time, always finding reasons to contact her these two days. She had also received a call from Grandpa this morning, telling her to go to the Songs'' with Yu Sheng after work today, it involved a major project for the Li family, she had to go.

    If not for the 1.2% equity issue, Li Zhen would have told her dad long ago that they were divorced, and she wouldn''t have to keep dealing with Yu Sheng, but she couldn''t now.

    Today''s matter concerned the Li family. Facing Yu Sheng''s questioning, she could only shrink her neck and listen, not daring to confront him.

    Yu Sheng nced at her, "You have one minute to add me back."

    "I don''t know how to re-add someone I blocked." Li Zhen refused.

    "Give me your phone." Yu Sheng held out his hand.

    Li Zhen tried to pull her phone back, but the next second, the phone was already snatched away by Yu Sheng.

    After a few taps Yu Sheng added them back.

    Li Zhen was toozy to care about him, and continued to bury her head in her meal, but suddenly felt something wrong, as if the temperature around her body had cooled in an instant.

    She turned to look.

    Yu Sheng''s dark and deep eyes were staring at her, that gaze was meaningful.

    "Li Zhen, what did President Lu call you to his office to do yesterday during lunch break?"

    "Ah?" Li Zhen looked at it, Yu Sheng''s hand clearly disyed their chat history.

    Her usually quick-thinking brain stopped working.

    She even forgot to question him for checking her chat history.

    Honghai''s policies were extremely strict. If anyone found out she married Lu Yanming, the result would definitely be both of them kicked out of Honghai.

    Lu Yanming was the deputy CEO of the group. He must have put in tremendous effort to reach this position.

    Especially her... 2.5 million!

    "Li Zhen, what is the deputy CEO of the group calling a little hand model like you to his office to do during lunch break?" Yu Sheng asked this sentence word for word.

    He had been with Li Zhen for five years and had never checked her chat history, he hadn''t even had that thought.

    He had been doted on by the public since childhood, and chose her from countless pursuers.

    He had enough confidence that she would always love him, and would never give him up for another man.

    But just now from the corner of his eye he saw she was actually in contact with Lu Yanming, and suspicion instantly welled up. Lu Yanming directly led the department heads, he wouldn''t have work contact with a low-level employee at all, so he opened it to look.

    "Yesterday was..." Li Zhen felt Yu Sheng''s gaze was substantive as he stared at her, and felt a slight chill on her back.

    This was a bit tricky... No matter what, she and the deputy CEO of the group shouldn''t have any interaction.

    Moreover, once Yu Sheng became suspicious, any lie she told would be easily seen through.

 Chapter 16: Friendly and In-depth Exchanges

    <h4>Chapter 16</h4>

    "What are you doing?" Yu Sheng''s gaze gradually darkened.

    Li Zhen''s palms were sweating. The sticky feeling made her even more nervous.

    Suddenly, Qiao Yi sat down across from Li Zhen. "Li Zhen, yesterday the general manager asked you to get Lu Yanming''s signature on those documents. Did Lu sign them already?"

    Li Zhen looked up to see Qiao Yi quickly blinking at her.

    Li Zhen understood almost instantly. "Signed already. He had me take them back down yesterday."

    Yu Sheng pondered for two seconds, his gaze sharp. "What documents? Why were you hem-hawing when I just asked?"

    Before Li Zhen could respond, Qiao Yi spoke up. "President Yu, it was my resignation report. I didn''t have time yesterday, so after the general manager signed, he had Li Zhen bring it upstairs." Qiao Yi''s back was soaked in sweat.

    Facing Yu Sheng''s eyes that seemed to see through everything, she was barely holding it together.

    Just now, after she and Zhang Xiya returned to the office, Zhang Xiya insisted she wasn''t full.

    Qiao Yi had no choice but toe back for more food. Passing their table, she overheard Yu Sheng interrogating Li Zhen.

    "Li Zhen, go back to the office and get it from me quickly. The general manager wants it now."

    "Okay, let''s go." Li Zhen didn''t want to stay a second longer.

    Once out of the cafeteria, Li Zhen patted her chest. "Good thing you bailed me out! You turned that around quickly. Solid excuse!"

    "Don''tpliment me. My back is soaked!" Facing Yu Sheng''s piercing eyes felt like torture even for Qiao Yi.

    She and Zhang Xiya had just returned to the office when Zhang Xiyained she was still hungry.

    Qiao Yi had no choice but toe back for more food. Passing their table, she overheard Yu Sheng interrogating Li Zhen.

    "That won''t work. Yu Sheng is very prudent. He may go confirm with Lu and our GM..." Li Zhen worried he would stubbornly dig for the truth.

    "Don''t worry, I''ll give the GM a heads up."

    Recalling what just happened, Li Zhen felt she owed her subordinate an exnation. "Lu and I are actually..."

    "You don''t have to say it. I get it." They had reached the legal department entrance. Qiao Yi stepped back and lowered her voice: "Yesterday, seeing you at thepany entrance, Lu was thunderstruck. Then he abused his power to coerce you into servicing him. But you and Yu Sheng are the real deal. Today Yu Sheng almost found out. As just a general manager, he''s no match for the VP. So for love you endure in silence, not daring to reveal to your beloved that Lu coerced you. Right?"

    Qiao Yi always looked utterly serious.

    Her measured tone almost convinced Li Zhen, who knew the truth.

    Li Zhen: ...I''ll give you the pen. You write it!

    Qiao Yi couldn''t helpughing. "Kidding! At a nce you can tell Lu isn''t the type to indulge in pleasures. I understand why you were anxious. Thepany prohibits office romances. Yu Sheng is too sensitive, making a big deal of normal colleague interactions."

    Li Zhen hung her head guiltily.

    Last night she had seduced Lu Yanming with her charms.

    What she and Lu Yanming had was not normal colleague interaction. It was intimate, friendly interaction...

    That afternoon, Li Zhen received an address from Yu Sheng for a gown shop Li Yinnan had booked for them.

    Tonight was a wine tasting event that required formal attire. Li Yinnan had already selected a gown for her, clearly attaching great importance to tonight.

    Yu Sheng had to workte and told Li Zhen to go first.

    Arriving at the entrance, the store manager was already waiting to respectfully usher her inside.

    "Ms. Li, your grandfather notified us ahead of time that tonight''s event is a wine tasting. We''ve prepared six evening gowns appropriate for the asion. Please try them all first before deciding."

    "Thank you." Li Zhen followed her inside to the VIP dressing room.

    In the spacious, luxurious VIP room, six tall models wore gowns and stood in the center.

    The store manager led Li Zhen to sit on the soft leather sofa.

    Someone immediately brought over a hot drink and ced it in front of Li Zhen. "Ms. Li, you may be drinking tonight, so we prepared this sobering tea in advance."

    "Thank you." Eyeing the warm drink, Li Zhen sensed something amiss.

    Her grandfather had brought her here to select gowns before. It was never this special treatment!

    "I knew I wasn''t seeing things!" Suddenly the VIP room door opened and Li Yanran strode in, followed by her best friend Duan Zhixin.

    Li Yanran wore a shy crimson evening gown, staggeringly high heels, and more morous makeup than usual. With haughty poise she addressed the store manager: "You''re serving the wrong person. I''m the Li family daughter, Li Yanran. I was selecting my own gown in the main hall! You have over a dozen people here waiting on this pri¡ª"

    Li Yanran stopped herself from saying "bastard".

    That would disgrace the Li family.

    Duan Zhixin had been Li Yanran''spanion since childhood and always looked down on Li Zhen.

    Learning from Li Yanran that Li Zhen had married the Yu family''s eldest son, her dislike deepened.

    Duan Zhixin cast Li Zhen a cold nce. "A slut who slept her way up. Get out!"

    Li Zhen suddenly understood.

    The shop mistook her for someone else?

    She didn''t want to quibble with Li Yanran over this petty issue.

    But Duan Zhixin''s words were too crude. Li Zhen couldn''t stand it. "How did the Duan family raise you so poorly? Do you really think you''re hot shit on a silver tter?"

    "You¡ª" Duan Zhixin''s face shed green then white.

    Li Yanran wanted to retort but held back.

    She could never get the better of Li Zhen verbally.

    Now with so many strangers around, losing a verbal spat would be too embarrassing.

    "What me? If you can''t speak properly, get your head examined. Or pay me to teach you!" Li Zhen said arrogantly.

    Yet her actions were the opposite¡ª heading for the exit.

    Her vicious tongue felt great, but she couldn''t exactly squat in the VIP room.

    Duan Zhixin perked up at this. "Seems the one needing a re-examination is you!"

    Li Zhen pretended not to hear, though she had already cursed out Duan Zhixin''s ancestors dozens of generations back.

    She had only taken two steps when the manager respectfully blocked her path with a bow. "Ms. Li, please sit. We did not mistake you."

    Li Zhen was slightly startled.

    The manager''s eyes flicked to Li Yanran and Duan Zhixin. "Ms. Li Zhen, Young Master Yu is our gold card member. You''re hispanion tonight, so naturally you should be served here."

    Hearing this, Li Yanran was shocked.

    Her gaze stabbed Li Zhen like knives.

    This private custom boutique catered to high society clientele. Not just the clothes, even simple essories were exorbitantly priced. In recent years the Li family''s important asion outfits hade from here, but they had never entered the VIP room.

    No wonder the Li family was suddenly enjoying this treatment today.

    Because of Yu Sheng!

    Li Yanran had tried getting close to Yu Sheng before, drawn only by his wless looks, build, and that aloof, coldly handsome air.

    But now, from this one minor incident, she truly realized for the first time that Yu Sheng could provide his partner a lofty status lording over others, a ss leap beyond reach, and unimaginable extravagant wealth.

    Li Yanran had never envied and hated Li Zhen as much as she did right now.

    She had also never wanted to rece Li Zhen as much as now.

    Duan Zhixincked Li Yanran''s restraint. Her voice instantly turned shrill. "Young Master Yu is Young Master Yu. She is her, just a filthy mongrel. A cheap mistress. How can shepare with Young Master Yu!"

    Li Zhen''s anger red.

    But before she could react, there was a loud "p"!

    A man''s heavy palm cracked down on Duan Zhixin''s face with daunting force.

    Duan Zhixin''s body jerked sideways. She stumbled back two steps and crashed to the floor. Her head buzzed as blood gushed from her mouth.

    The VIP room upants gasped in fright.

    You could hear a pin drop.

    All eyes turned to the neer.

    Yu Sheng''s tall, coldly handsome form exuded an intimidating aura. His chin tilted up arrogantly as his dark eyes looked down at Duan Zhixin, her mind already growing hazy on the floor.

    "Go home and ask your father if the Duan family is too idletely, provoking me, Yu Sheng!"

 Chapter 17: Do I Look Good

    <h4>Chapter 17</h4>

    Li Zhen blinked and looked at the person on the ground, then at Yu Sheng who had just appeared.

    Li Yanran''s lips turned white, obviously stunned. She murmured, "She... seems to have been knocked out..."

    "Who said she was knocked out?" Li Zhen walked two steps forward, her tone envious, "Youth is bliss, able to fall asleep immediately."

    Li Yanran: ...

    Manager: ...

    Models: ...

    Li Yanran spoke gently, "Yu...Brother Yu Sheng, she''s a girl..."

    "I, Yu Sheng, am no gentleman. I don''t discriminate between hitting men and women," Yu Sheng walked closer to Li Yanran, looking her up and down, his gaze as cold as ice, "So you better behave yourself."

    Although his tone was neither heavy nor light, Li Yanran understood the warning behind it and felt a chill run through her body.

    She didn''t dare say another word, just weakly helped Duan Zhixin walk outside.

    As soon as they left the VIP room, the manager immediately closed the door.

    Through the gradually closing gap, Li Yanran saw Yu Sheng walk over to Li Zhen and gently brush the stray hair from her face.

    How unfair!

    What right does Li Zhen, that illegitimate daughter, have!

    The VIP room door closedpletely. Li Yanran looked away, her fingers clenched tightly together.

    More than twenty years ago, Li Zhen''s mother was no match for her own mother.

    Li Zhen, don''t even think about defeating her either!

    -

    Yu Sheng tucked the stray hair beside Li Zhen''s ear behind her ear, "Usually you don''t let me get close, yet outside you let others bully you."

    Li Zhen took a step back, "Weren''t you too rough just now?"

    She had wanted to hit the girl herself, but Yu Sheng always used too much force. Li Zhen was worried Duan Zhixin might get a concussion.

    "I think I went easy on her..." Yu Sheng sat down on the sofa, crossing his long legs.

    The manager quickly brought over a cup of tea, "Young Master Yu."

    Yu Sheng took a sip of the tea, nced at Li Zhen who seemed to want to say something. "What are you standing there for? Go change, it''s gettingte."

    Li Zhen had wanted to tell him not to meddle in her affairs next time.

    But he had just helped her fight.

    If she said it now, it would seem like she was unappreciative.

    After all, she thought Yu Sheng had handled it perfectly, except for being a bit heavy-handed...

    Without another word, Li Zhen randomly picked a dress and the model followed her into the changing room.

    Yu Sheng also went to change into a formal suit.

    He wore a silver-white formal suit, matching the color of Li Zhen''s dress.

    After changing, he sat back down on the sofa and checked the time.

    "Ms. Li looks so beautiful in this dress, gorgeous!" The manager couldn''t help but exim loudly.

    Yu Sheng instinctively looked up.

    It was Li Zhen, finished changing.

    Tall and slender, Li Zhen''s figure was entuated by the mermaid dress that seemed tailored just for her.

    From her delicate waist to the hem of the skirt, there were tiny flickering silver fish scales.

    Highlighting her slim waist and pert derriere.

    "Is it too tight?" Li Zhen asked the model beside her.

    "No, not at all," the model smiled and shook her head, "Your proportions are perfect, this set matches your temperament perfectly!"

    "Is that so?" Li Zhen tugged at the skirt.

    Under Yu Sheng''s gaze, she slowly walked closer.

    The light in the VIP room fell on the tiny scales, glinting slightly.

    In the intery of light and shadow, she was like the most beautiful mermaid in the deep sea, flicking her tail and stirring the clear water, illuminating it with sound and color.

    Thump thump!

    Yu Sheng heard the clear thumping of his heart.

    "Yu Sheng, what do you think of this dress?" Li Zhen casually asked him.

    Like a mermaid just emerged from the water, unintentionally revealing her bewitching charm, oblivious to it herself.

    Yu Sheng looked up slightly.

    He thought of the first basketball game in their freshman year, when he led the Finance team against the Film and Drama team.

    At halftime, Li Zhen came over with water, smiling and revealing her little fangs, "School prince, want water? This is loving Cupid''s water..."

    Back then he had nced at Li Zhen and declined the water.

    Li Zhen''s hand hung in midair, rather embarrassed, "Hey, give me some face, school prince."

    A guy from the Film and Drama team ran over, using his jersey to wipe the sweat from his face. He took the water from Li Zhen''s hand, smiling, "Li Zhen, I''ll take it, I''m quite thirsty."

    The next second, Yu Sheng snatched the water from the guy''s hand.

    The 500ml water, he finished in one gulp, and threw the empty bottle at the guy''s feet with a "thud".

    The guy''s expression changed several times before he finally gritted his teeth and left.

    Yu Sheng got up to return to the game. His hard, sweaty arm was gently held by a soft, clean little hand. "School prince, wait, do you...think I look good today?"

    His arm suddenly felt scalding hot.

    Hotter than the 42 degree weather that day, almost unbearable.

    He didn''t look at Li Zhen, staring straight at the court, shaking her hand off his arm, his voice hoarse, "I need to get back to the game."

    He didn''t nce at the cheerleading squad that day at all.

    Because he knew Li Zhen was there.

    Afterwards, he ate barbecue and drank beer with his teammates before returning to the dorm to shower and sleep. Lying in his top bunk, he saw the game photos uploaded to their Finance ss chat group.

    With one nce, he saw the candid shot of Li Zhen holding his arm, looking up at him speaking.

    She had her hair in high pigtails, wearing the cheer squad''s white uniform. Under the super short pleated skirt, her legs were long and straight.

    To get close enough to his ear, she was standing on tiptoes.

    Her top was stretched taut, riding up.

    Exposing a slim waist, dazzlingly fair under the sunlight.

    Her fair hand held his sun-darkened arm that day, the contrast of ck and white an intense male-female dynamic.

    Lying in the top bunk, looking at that photo, he could still hear her soft inquiry, "School prince, do you think I look good today?"

    "School prince..."

    "Do I...look good?"

    Young men always have endless vigor. Dorm mates often yed adult videos, but Yu Sheng had little desire.

    Yet now, amidst his roommates'' heated discussion of the game, lying in his bunk he closed his eyes and turned over.

    One hand gripped his phone tightly, veins bulging from his hand.

    The other hand reached under his covers...

    "Yu Sheng, I''m asking you, does this dress look good?" In the VIP room, Li Zhen was out of patience and asked again.

    "Young Master Yu..." The manager smiled and gently reminded, "You and Ms. Li look so well matched in these outfits. Shall we finalize these two for tonight?"

    Only then did Yu Sheng return to his senses, realizing he had already walked up to Li Zhen.

    The immature girl from seven years ago with her hair in a ponytail.

    Seven yearster, her features fully blossomed into bewitching beauty.

    "Good," Yu Sheng stood before her, his gaze deeply fixed on her, "This one."

    This woman.

    Everything was perfectly fated.

    "Click", the manager smiled and snapped a photo.

    -

    The city''s south side where Honghai Group was located had an international metropole ambience. At rush hour, luxury cars streamed by and crowds bustled.

    After work, Wang Peng got into Lu Yanming''s car to go eat dinner together. "Yanming, which employee dorm are you staying at? Is itfortable? If not, let me know and I''ll switch you to another one."

    Lu Yanming''s suit was neat and prim, his schrly temperament refined. He smiled gently, "It''s fine."

    His long, shapely fingers fiddled with his phone. His cool white fingertips gently caressed the screen, but his thoughts were not in the car.

    What had she and him talked about at lunch today?

    Last night she had returned homete again, how about tonight?

    He unlocked his phone, then locked it again.

    Unlocked, locked again.

    In the driver''s seat, Fei Chao couldn''t help but purse his lips.

    Young Master might be used to it, but he wasn''t!

    Young Master didn''t know what nonsense he was up to, staying in that old residential area. He had no choice but to find a nearby hotel to stay at.

    Ever since following Young Master, he had never stayed at a hotel below 5 stars. It wasn''t that he couldn''t handle hardship, just that the hotel had no sound instion!

    Those indecent sounds were pure torture to him.

    He hadn''t had a good night''s sleep yet!

    "You young people, I just don''t understand, but if you ever find it ufortable, be sure to let me know." Wang Pengughed and took out his phone.

    He had two years until retirement, so his pace of life had slowed down. He loved browsing his phone whenever he had free time.

    "Oh..." Wang Peng''s motions suddenly paused, "Young Master Yu who never posts actually shared a photo of his wife."

    ncing at Wang Peng''s phone, Lu Yanming''s tranquil gaze froze for a second.

 Chapter 18: Lady Yu Jiaâ€™s early Growth

    <h4>Chapter 18</h4>

    There were two photos.

    One was taken on a basketball court. In the photo, a girl was pulling Yu Sheng''s arm. Only the girl''s slender back could be seen clearly, while Yu Sheng''s unrestrained young face was crystal clear.

    The other was taken indoors with elegant decor. Likewise, only the woman''s back in a silver-white formal dress could be seen in the photo. She was standing against the light while Yu Sheng lowered his head before her, his eyes deep and hot.

    The two photos were a sharp contrast, depicting a woman''s transition from green youth to elegant maturity.

    The caption contained only a few words: Seven years, Madam Yu has finally grown up.

    It was posted a few minutes ago, and thement section had already exploded.

    There were all kinds of envy and blessings, as well as questions asking if she would reveal their marriage instead of keeping it a secret.

    Lu Yanming''s gaze grew increasingly profound. Two secondster, he smiled lightly and said, "Madam Yu?"

    Wang Peng was busy gossiping and didn''t notice anything wrong with his expression. "Chairman Yu rarely posts on his feed. To think he would post a photo of his wife today, it seems the couple has made great progress in their rtionship these past two days."

    Lu Yanming shifted his gaze from Wang Peng''s phone.

    Wang Peng was also about to leave ament. As he typed, he said, "Although only her back is shown, judging by her height and temperament, they make a good pair, a talent and a beauty. Seven years? Their love runs deep."

    After posting thement, Wang Pengughed and said, "Chairman Yu is always busy working overtime and neglecting his wife. If he doesn''t work overtime tonight, maybe the couple can finally start making babies."

    "Stop the car..." Lu Yanming''s voice grew slightly deeper.

    Fei Zhao smoothly parked the car at the roadside.

    Lu Yanming: "Mr. Wang, I suddenly remembered I have something to do tonight, so I won''t be having dinner with you after all."

    Wang Peng: "Ah... Okay."

    Wang Peng got out of the car and stood by the roadside,pletely confused.

    Why did he suddenly have ns?

    Wait...

    They were on an overpass.

    How was he going to get a taxi?

    Wang Peng hurriedly called his assistant, "Hello, hello,e pick me up... Where am I? Let me check..."

    The two in the car didn''t feel it was wrong at all to abandon Wang Peng on the overpass. Seeing they would no longer dine with Wang Peng, Fei Zhao nced at Lu Yanming through the rearview mirror: "Young Master, to your residence?"

    Lu Yanming looked out the window. "Find out where Yu Sheng went tonight."

    As dusk fell, the streemps lit up one by one, and Jincheng''s extravagant nightlife seemed to just begin.

    -

    Jincheng had only just be a first-tier city in recent years. Its development was mainly concentrated in the south, with finance and the inte pushing the GDP of the South High-tech Zone to the highest in the city, securing its leading status.

    The vis in the South were mostly inhabited by the nouveau riche.

    The old way of life with its teahouses and mahjong was mostly in the West. The deep-rooted old money families like the Li and Song families also lived in the West.

    Yu Sheng drove from the South to the West to get to the Song residence, a journey of nearly an hour.

    Li Zhen knew some divorced couples still treated their ex''s parents well, but she didn''t need Yu Sheng to do that. "You''re busy with work. Don''t agree the next time my dad asks you for help."

    "I know my limits," said Yu Sheng. His fair and powerful hand grasped the ck leather steering wheel. His gaze was cold and concentrated, exuding a restrained, ascetic vibe.

    Li Zhen fell silent for a moment. She suddenly thought of a more serious issue.

    Although Yu Sheng didn''t tell Li Yinnan about their divorce yesterday, it was possible they just hadn''t talked about it.

    If Li Yinnan found out they had divorced, she would look for loopholes. With her vicious means, she would likely imprison Li Zhen, leaving her no chance to get pregnant, locking her up for a year until the contract expired.

    So for now, their divorce had to remain a secret.

    She was walking on a knife''s edge, but the annual dividend was over ten million! Money didn''te easy. People worked hard from dawn to dusk to earn those bits of silver. Now there was this chance, only a fool wouldn''t take it!

    After sorting out her thoughts, Li Zhen unnaturally asked Yu Sheng, "Do you have any ns to marry recently?"

    Yu Sheng nced at Li Zhen. They had just divorced three days ago and she already wanted to remarry?

    Arguing to the point of rage-divorcing once was enough. If they remarried rashly and she made a scene again next time...

    "I don''t have such ns," Yu Sheng said coldly, rejecting her decisively.

    "Then when you see my dad, could you not mention our divorce for now?" Li Zhen was relieved he had no ns to remarry yet, so he didn''t need to rush to reim his single status.

    If he helped hide it for a while, it wouldn''t impact him much.

    "Mm," Yu Sheng gave a light hum of agreement.

    Of course he wouldn''t mention something as petty as marital spats to the elders.

    Reassured by his affirmative response, Li Zhen said, "Don''t worry, I''ll also try to make sure my dad bothers you less during this time. Thank you for this."

    The two parked ording to the navigation Li Yinnan sent.

    Song Fu had people keeping watch. As soon as Yu Sheng parked, Song Fu was already beside the car. "Little Yu, bad trafficing from the South Gate, right?"

    Yu Sheng and Li Zhen got out of the car.

    "Uncle Song," Yu Sheng nodded in greeting. "It was alright, not too congested today."

    "This is Little Li?" Song Fu''s gaze fell on Li Zhen.

    It was no secret that Li Yinnan had an illegitimate daughter. She was just rarely seen and few had met her.

    When Li Yinnan mentioned his daughter the other day, Song Fu had assumed it was Li Yanran.

    Only after making careful inquiries did he find out Li Yanran was engaged to the Yun family, so it must be that seldom seen illegitimate daughter instead.

    Although it had been many years, Li Yinnan''s affair with that woman had been the talk of the town back then.

    Meeting Li Zhen today, Song Fu understood why the usually stoic Li Yinnan had kicked up such a fuss.

    Just like the Eldest Young Master of the Yu family was of esteemed status yet helpless against feminine charm.

    Li Zhen smiled. "Uncle Song."

    Song Fu spoke kindly, "Uncle Song rarely went to the Li family before, so we met even less. My daughter is around your age. Feel free toe y with her in the future."

    "Alright, Uncle Song," Li Zhen politely nodded.

    The Song family was in real estate in Jincheng. Most begged them for partnerships, so they had always acted aloof.

    Seeing Song Fu personally wee and treat two youngsters so warmly, the guests who had parked their cars looked over curiously.

    What was even more surprising was the car these youngsters drove - just an entry-level Mercedes-Benz E-ss worth a few hundred thousand.

    The other cars in this parking lot were at least millions.

    Song Fu brought the two inside the vi. "Little Li, your dad is talking with President Zhang. I''ll take you guys over."

    "Okay, Uncle Song," said Li Zhen, ncing around.

    In the center of the great hall was avish temporary stage filled with exquisite instruments. A man in formal attire sat before the piano, immersed in melodious ying.

    Under the soothing, elegant music, everyone held wine sses, chatting in groups of threes.

    She had always disliked such asions.

    Forced by her grandfather to attend Li family banquets before, she had always kept out of the way until it ended.

    Today, with Song Fu treating her so warmly, it wouldn''t look good to sneak off.

    Yu Sheng nced at herck of enthusiasm and said softly, "Didn''t you say your stomach hurt and you wanted to rest in the corner?"

    Li Zhen: ...When did she say that?

    It only took a second for her to catch on. "Oh right, I''m feeling a bit ufortable."

    "Should I have the family doctor take a look?" Song Fu''s expression was anxious.

    "No need. Just an old problem, I''ll be fine after a rest," Li Zhen smiled calmly and headed to the corner, making sure to gently clutch her stomach, putting on a weak yet strong front.

    Seeing hermit to the act, Yu Sheng couldn''t help an amused smile. He looked away and went with Song Fu to Li Yinnan.

    -

    Li Zhen sat in the corner happily snacking as she watched Yu Sheng from afar.

    He wore the same lustrous silver-white fabric as her. The fine, orderly stitchesplemented his tall and upright bearing, exuding the proud and noble temperament unique to privileged young masters.

    Standing among the crowd, his tall figure towered over the others. She could spot him at a nce.

    Watching him conversing smoothly with Li Yinnan and the others, a morous figure suddenly appeared behind Yu Sheng.

    It was Li Yanran!

    Li Zhen immediately perked up.

    Some sisterly love! Her bestie was beaten up by Yu Sheng, yet Li Yanran not only didn''t keep herpany, she could still cozy up to him shamelessly!

    Li Zhen had liedst time about pping her for throwing herself at Yu Sheng.

    But it did remind her that she should try to catch Li Yanran on video seducing Yu Sheng for future leverage.

    Li Zhen took out her phone and turned on the camera, thinking about whether she could take some useful shots, but the lens was blocked by the person standing in front of her.

    "Excuse me, please move." Li Zhen stared at the camera and waved her hand.

    But the person in front didn''t budge at all.

    Li Zhen didn''t expect to encounter such an ill-mannered person in this situation. Anger red up in her.

    "Are you..." Li Zhen looked up, her tone suddenly shifting, "Your ears look clever and good-looking, Mr. Lu..."

    "Good-looking?" Lu Yanming''s nearly 1.9-meter tall figure looked down at the sitting Li Zhen, the oppressive aura hitting her in the face. "You were just looking at someone else admiringly just now, even wanting to take a picture with your phone? You like him that much?"

 Chapter 19: Like it

    <h4>Chapter 19</h4>

    "No one''s watching us, there''s no one..." Li Zhen smiled and stood up, pulling Lu Yanming to therge balcony outside the living room.

    She couldn''t let Yu Sheng see how familiar she was with Lu Yanming.

    If Yu Sheng became suspicious and investigated her fake marriage, with his vtile temperament, he might report her to thepany on a bad day.

    She also couldn''t let Lu Yanming know that she hade with Yu Sheng today.

    This man looked gentle and reasonable on the surface, but was actually vicious and cunning. He might stab her in the back one day. She couldn''t give him leverage over her former secret marriage.

    In the few seconds it took to get from the living room to the balcony, Li Zhen thought of so much that her brain''s CPU nearly burned out.

    "Mr. Lu, you''re here at the Songs'' too?" Li Zhen leaned against the balcony railing, fanning her head to help it cool down.

    Lu Yanming nced at her with his light-colored eyes behind gold wire-rimmed sses. "If you cane, why can''t I?"

    You?

    What did that "you" mean?

    Did he see her arrive wearing matching outfits with Yu Sheng?

    Li Zhen forced an awkward smile. "Haha, yes, I came with my dad."

    "Oh..." Lu Yanming nodded.

    Li Zhen let out a breath. Good, it seemed he didn''t know.

    Lu Yanming said, "But I didn''t ask who you came with. Why are you so nervous?"

    Li Zhen: ...

    That was a mistake. Nothing to see here!

    Lu Yanming took a step forward, closing the distance between them. His voice was mellow and forceful. "I came because I wanted to ask what time you''re going home tonight?"

    "Huh?" Li Zhen was caught off guard for a moment.

    "You just asked why I came, so I''m answering you. That''s why I''m here." Lu Yanming took another step forward.

    There was only an inch between them now.

    Lu Yanming''s light, pleasant woody scent gently enveloped her.

    Li Zhen leaned back against the railing with Lu Yanming''s face right in front of hers. The proximity made her heart beat faster. "I...might go back around midnight tonight."

    As soon as she finished speaking, she felt something was off.

    It took over an hour to get from the south of the city to the west. He came all this way just to ask when she was going home?

    Just as she was trying to reboot her brain''s CPU to think about this, she suddenly saw Lu Yanming tug his pristine shirt out from his belt.

    "Midnight? A bitte." He took Li Zhen''s hand and slipped it inside the shirt, leaning in slightly. His breath tangled strongly with hers. "Do you like it?"

    Li Zhen''s brain, which had just started up again, shut down once more.

    Her hand was pressed firmly down while her palm felt his scorching body heat. His muscr contours were powerful yet not overly exaggerated.

    It was just the right feel to make any woman gasp in wonder.

    She could even feel the rhythmic vibrations of his abs when Lu Yanming spoke.

    "Do you like it?" Lu Yanming asked again, his low voice caressing Li Zhen''s ear and carrying undeniable temptation. "Come back early tonight. It''s all yours."

    Fei Chao was peeking from a corner, clenching his thighs excitedly.

    Young Master was finally opening up!

    This was incredible, groundbreaking news!

    But Young Master was letting a woman reach into his shirt!

    Doing something so shameless in broad daylight!

    He was very disappointed in Young Master''s morals!

    But he was even more disappointed that Young Master didn''t let her reach into his pants!

    Li Zhen tried to pull her hand back but couldn''t budge it at all. Her face flushed deep red. "Mr. Lu, we''re on the balcony. Someone might see."

    She nced nervously at the living room.

    Yu Sheng was still with Li Yinnan and hadn''t looked this way.

    "You should be d this is the balcony and not a sofa you could lie on..." Lu Yanming deliberately trailed off.

    Li Zhen''s face turned so red it seemed blood would drip from it. She couldn''t free her hand and was flustered and anxious. "Mr. Lu, you were so reluctant the other night, so why are you suddenly..."

    "You know I was reluctant the other night, yet you still took advantage of me?" Lu Yanming asked very sincerely, as if he truly wanted an answer.

    Li Zhen: ...

    What a perfect example of shooting oneself in the foot!

    Her and her big mouth!

    Lu Yanming gently rubbed her burning earlobe. "I''ve been single my whole life. Yet you forced me to break my vow. Don''t you know a baby who has just started eating meat craves more?"

    Li Zhen''s ears roared as they burned.

    No, stay calm. This man was using his charm.

    Li Zhen said, "You''re pretty hip, knowing the term ''single since birth''."

    "Don''t try to change the subject." Lu Yanming leaned in slightly, nearing her crimson ear. His voice lowered. "Come back before 10. Little Lu has washed himself clean and is waiting for you."

    Lu Yanming''s words were so straightforward that Li Zhen stammered, "But...it''s already 8:40 now. It takes an hour to get home."

    "So you have a very ample 20 minutes to say goodbye to everyone." Lu Yanming''s expression was calm and his tone mellow and steady, yet carried absolute authority. "10 o''clock. Not a minuteter, or else next time you have needs, you''ll have to pay 50,000 a night to find it elsewhere."

    "Don''t worry, I''ll be on time!" Li Zhen quickly agreed.

    Lu Yanming couldn''t leave things half done.

    Forget 50,000, even 500,000 might not find his excellent genes elsewhere.

    Plus, to have a child within a year, minus nine months of pregnancy, she only had three months.

    Time was tight and the mission heavy.

    She couldn''t waste a single day!

    Lu Yanming nodded in satisfaction and released her hand, turning and leaving without a backward nce.

    As Li Zhen watched Lu Yanming''s disappearing back, she suddenly realized something.

    She had business to attend to right now and could have negotiated with him to wait a little longer for her.

    Yet first he had pulled her hand to feel his abs, arousing and embarrassing her into a heated daze. Then he had guilt-tripped her for taking advantage of him, making her feel ashamed. Next he had set a time limit to fluster her. And finally, he had coerced her in one move...

    No, one move to subdue her!

    Ever since she could remember, no one had gotten the better of her before.

    What a Lu Yanming!

    He really was...gically superior!

    Her future child would also be this clever and self-possessed, effortlessly gaining the upper hand.

    Although she knew she had been yed, Li Zhen was actually excited to go home and nurture her extremely intelligent baby.

    Li Zhen found Li Yinnan in high spirits.

    "Dad..." Li Zhen had originally wanted to leave with Yu Sheng, but looking around, she didn''t see him. "Where''s Yu Sheng?"

    "Mr. Song took him to the wine cer to see the wine collection. They just went down." Li Yinnan''s tone was unusually gentle today.

    If they were wine tasting, they wouldn''te back up for a while.

    Li Zhen calcted the time and decided not to wait for Yu Sheng. "Then can you and Yu Sheng tell Uncle Song that I have something to take care of and will leave first?"

    "You''re leaving as soon as you arrived?"

    Li Yinnan reflexively wanted to scold her for herck of propriety.

    But with Yu Sheng here today, it didn''t matter if she left early.

    After thinking for two seconds, he nodded. "Be careful on the road."

    "Then let Yu Sheng know I left when you see himter." After speaking, Li Zhen cautiously reminded him, "Dad, Yu Sheng was just promoted and is very busy. Don''t contact him too often recently."

    "Alright, I know."

    Li Zhen didn''t need to tell him. Li Yinnan also wouldn''t bother Yu Sheng frequently.

    A good knife should only be used at its edge.

    Not far away, Li Yanran sat in a corner, watching Li Zhen leave the Songs'' home.

    She looked aggrievedly at the middle-aged woman beside her. "Mom, that cheap woman hooked Brother Yu just by being coquettish! Now that she knows Brother Yu''s status, she''s holding onto him even tighter!"

    Lace cuffs peeked from the sleeves of Lin Zhiyin''s elegant in white formal dress, meticulously embroidered with phoenixes.

    At the sleeve cuffs, a string of light brown Buddhist prayer beads shed in and out of sight.

    "Yanran, Yu Sheng might not just be attracted by her looks." Lin Zhiyin smiled serenely, her bearing gentle and refined. "And she might not just be after the Yu family''s power."

    "Oh." Li Yanran heard her but didn''t believe it.

    Li Zhen had followed Yu Sheng for so many years yet was still willing to secretly marry him. That was clearly to gain the limitless wealth and nobility the Yu family could provide her in the future.

    But her mother had never been wrong about anything. Li Yanran didn''t dare contradict her.

    Her maternal grandparents were very poor, and her mother had a difficult childhood. Yet she had tested into the top university and married well into the Li family.

    Her mother was wise and brilliant. Even her father would discuss important decisions with her.

    Li Yanran had talked back to Old Mr. Li and argued with Li Yinnan before.

    She only deeply respected and revered her mother.

    Seeing her beloved daughter, Lin Zhiyin''s expression softened. "Comining is what the weak do. If you want someone, then pursue them. If you dislike someone, make them submit forever."

    Li Yanran''s hand shook in rm.

    Could it be that her mother knew she liked Yu Sheng?

    But she was still engaged to the Yun family. If Mother found out about her feelings for Yu Sheng, wouldn''t she scold her?

    Oh, she almost forgot, Mother never scolded anyone, let alone her.

    Mother was always wise, calm, andposed.

    Li Yanran asked, "But how should I deal with people I dislike?"

    "Borrow a knife first, don''t be foolish and reveal yourself right away." Lin Zhiyin''s tone was gentle as she patiently taught, then elegantly held her wine ss. "Your father will have a lot of dealings with the Song family recently. I''m going to chat with Madam Song. You stay here and drink less."

    "Yes, Mother, go ahead." Li Yanran nodded obediently.

    But in her heart, she kept pondering her mother''s words.

    Borrow a knife.

    Don''t reveal yourself.

    Lin Zhiyin stood up gracefully, her posture elegant and refined. The light brown Buddhist prayer beads half-revealed at her sleeve emitted a benevolent glow.

    "Yan''er, start with those around your enemy." Her voice was gentle, merciful as a saint, kind as Buddha. "That''s how you''ll catch your opponent...off guard."

 Chapter 20: How virtuous He is

    <h4>Chapter 20</h4>

    After leaving the Song family residence, Li Zhen got into a taxi and couldn''t help urging the driver, "Master, go faster, even faster please."

    The driver was a man with a simple and honest appearance. After a while, he sighed and said, "Miss, it''s only been thirteen minutes and you''ve said ''faster'' thirty-three times already."

    Li Zhen smiled awkwardly, "Sorry Master, I''m in a hurry..."

    In a hurry to get back and make a baby!

    If I''mte, the artificial man will stop working!

    Men have an innate patience towards beautiful women. If the driver hadn''t seen that Li Zhen was a pretty youngdy, he would have scolded her already. "Sorry, this is as fast as I can go. If you''re really in that much of a rush, why not call the traffic bureau and ask them to send a helicopter for you?"

    "Haha, Master you really have a sense of humor." Li Zhenughed twice, realizing that only her awkwardughter echoed in the car.

    She pursed her lips awkwardly.

    Two secondster, she suddenly gave a soft sob and cried out, "Master, there''s no point in hiding it from you anymore..."

    The driver immediately pricked up his ears.

    "My husband...he''s...clinging to hisst breath, waiting for me!" Li Zhen covered her face with both hands, crying sorrowfully.

    The driver nced at the destination on his app, looking puzzled. "He''s down to hisst breath, but he''s not in the hospital, he''s at home?"

    Li Zhen: ...

    Don''t panic, she can still make something up.

    Ah no, she can still say...

    Li Zhen: "Master, there are some things you don''t know. My husband makes a lot of money, and with money he often goes to some unsavory establishments. As a result he caught..."

    What kind of illness could make a young man be left with just one breath?

    Li Zhen''s brain spun rapidly.

    The driver was hooked and quickly asked: "What illness is that?"

    "Yes, yes, that illness!"

    "Ah...that illness can''t be cured, and the medical fees are expensive too..."

    Li Zhen sobbed loudly, "That''s right! We sold our two homes just to pay for his treatment, but he still couldn''t be cured. Our family doesn''t have a penny left, we''ve borrowed all we can..." Master, the traffic light is green, drive first... So he can only stay at home, hanging on to hisst breath."

    After the driver got through the intersection, he said indignantly: "And you''re still rushing to see him!"

    "Master, he was unkind, I can''t be unrighteous..." He sent me a message asking if I ever loved him. I want to tell him in person..." Li Zhen wept bitterly and mournfully.

    The driver sighed lightly, "It''s rare to have such a dutiful woman like you!"

    "I just don''t know if I''ll get to see him onest time..." Li Zhen continued weeping in the back seat, but was frantically chanting in her heart, "All the gods I''m casually lying to, don''t take it seriously, I''m begging you to bless Lu Yanming with a long life of a hundred years using 0.001 years of my own lifespan."

    Then she peeked at the driver through the gap between her fingers covering her face.

    "Don''t worry, I will definitely fulfill your wish!" The driver gripped the steering wheel tightly, his gaze burning bright. "Buckle up and hold on tight, let''s go!"

    Li Zhen was overjoyed and hurriedly sat up straight.

    The driver mmed the gas pedal down.

    With a sudden "boom"...

    The car...

    Stalled.

    Li Zhen, who was just about to take off: ...

    The driver, who was ready to show his skills: ...

    The driver: "Ahem, sorry about that, my car is getting on in years."

    Li Zhen: "No need to exin, I can see that."

    "Your husband''sst breath, you probably won''t get to see it now."

    "With the car like this, you''re still thinking about my husband?"

    The driver: "Do you want to send him a message telling him if you ever loved him or not?"

    Li Zhen: ...I wasted 0.001 yearsing up with this story!

    -

    Li Zhen took another taxi and rushed into the elevator when she reached the building.

    ncing at the time, it was exactly 10:00.

    Exiting the elevator, she took out her keys and precisely inserted them into the lock.

    With a "click", the door opened.

    Li Zhen threw down her handbag and panted, "Boss Lu, I''m back."

    On the sofa in the living room, Lu Yanming sat leisurely with his tall, long-legged figure. Without even turning his head from the TV, he said, "It''s one minute past ten, you''rete."

    Li Zhen was still catching her breath. "I want to appeal! The first car I took broke down."

    Lu Yanming nced back at her, speaking in a steady, businesslike tone. "I only look at results."

    Li Zhen couldn''t swallow. She had the urge to point at Lu Yanming''s nose and curse at him.

    One minutete was uneptable?

    He didn''t only look at results, he was clearly putting pressure on her!

    She took several deep breaths to suppress her temper before walking over with a smile. "Boss Lu, one minute isn''t that big a deal..."

    "Human life is short as a white colt''s shadow passing a crack. Every second onlyes once, and is gone after - precious beyondpare," Lu Yanming turned his head back and calmly pressed the remote, changing the channel. He continued unhurriedly, "What''s more, one minute - that''s 60 precious seconds."

    Li Zhen gritted her teeth fiercely.

    No matter how illogical, Lu Yanming could make it sound like the truth.

    She was so angry she could die.

    But when she thought that it would be her child being able to arrogantly and logically talk back to the heavens and earth in the future, she came back to life!

    My child, the price your mother has paid for you to have extraordinary genes is too great.

    "This TV show is pretty good..." Li Zhen walked over, deciding to watch TV with him first to get closer.

    "It''s amercial right now." Lu Yanming''s expression didn''t change as he spoke.

    Li Zhen was rendered speechless immediately.

    He was watchingmercials too!

    She took another step, about to sit down, when her skirt suddenly got caught on the coffee table.

    Li Zhen''s expression shifted, and before she could react, she suddenly fell into Lu Yanming''s arms.

    Her face just happened to crash into his crotch.

    Lu Yanming suppressed a muffled, agonized groan, ncing down. From this angle looking at her bowed head in his arms, his blood instantly boiled.

    Li Zhen silently cried out, not daring to move.

    "Aren''t you going to get up?" Lu Yanming''s temple was jumping as he hoarsely hauled her by the nape of her neck to his side.

    Li Zhen''s face turned crimson. She worriedly asked, "Sorry, Boss Lu...I didn''t break anything, did I?"

    He wasn''t doing great to begin with, what if she had crippled himpletely!

    Wouldn''t she have topensate him for life?

    She opened her eyes wide and craned her head to look over.

    Lu Yanming got up and retreated back two steps, taking a deep breath to calm himself. He let out an amusedugh, "What are you looking at there?"

    Was she set on stirring up trouble if she didn''t tease him?

    "Sorry, sorry." Li Zhen quickly withdrew her gaze.

    Lu Yanming''s voice was slightly hoarse in his throat. "I don''t need to unlock new ways to y for now. You don''t have to be so proactive."

    Li Zhen''s expression froze slightly. Her face flushed as she exined dryly, "I''m just hungry since I haven''t eaten. I don''t have much energy when walking."

    She was too embarrassed to say her skirt got caught.

    That would sound too silly.

    "Who have you been with thesest few days, that they don''t even give you meals every time? Yet you still follow them around expectantly..."

    Lu Yanming seemed to just beining idly, not listening to her exnation at all. After speaking, he strolled towards the kitchen. "I''ll make some simplete-night snacks."

    He nced back at her. "Go take a shower. You can eat after showering."

    With Lu Yanming''s height and long legs, after saying that he took two or three steps and was already in the kitchen.

    Li Zhen watched his disappearing back and suddenly realized...Lu Yanming, he''s so considerate!

    Was this the "top-tier husband material" that colleagues talked about?

 Chapter 21: Workplace chaos is not chaos, Brother Lu decides

    <h4>Chapter 21</h4>

    After taking a shower and drying her hair, Li Zhen sat down at the dining table.

    Facing the sumptuous meal, she hesitated and asked, "Mr. Lu, is this what you call a simplete-night snack?"

    Was it her who misunderstood the word "simple", or was it him?

    He even steamed crabs.

    Lu Yanming took out an empty bowl, filled it halfway with soup, and ced it next to Li Zhen, "My cooking skills are decent. For me, this is a simplete-night snack."

    This is a bit too extravagant!

    Li Zhen sipped the soup in small gulps. Her taste buds were instantly conquered. No longer minding her image, she started eating vigorously.

    After eating about seventy to eighty percent full, she finally looked up at Lu Yanming.

    He had barely touched his chopsticks. His cufflinks were spotless as he calmly and steadily peeled the crab.

    Then, he scooped the crab meat into her bowl with a small spoon.

    His actions were skilled and natural.

    Only then did Li Zhen realize that unknowingly, she had eaten a lot of crab.

    Li Zhen''s mind was instantly filled with three words: husband material.

    Handsome, sessful career, good at housework, and willing to lower his status to peel crab for her.

    He was just too perfect!

    Were the standards for a good family man modeled after him?

    "Mr. Lu, do you cook often? Your culinary skills are just too good," Li Zhen gazed at him with her clear eyes.

    "asionally," Lu Yanming picked up another crab.

    "You..."

    "Stop," Lu Yanming''s movements halted. His eyes behind the gold-rimmed sses were indifferent, "Don''t use honorifics. I''m not much older than you."

    "Oh," Li Zhen nodded.

    So he cares a lot about his age.

    Did he think she wanted to use honorifics? It was justpany culture that everyone used honorific titles for managers.

    Li Zhen switched very naturally from "you" to "Lu".

    "Mr. Lu, you just took office. Your work must be very busy. Do you not need to work overtime every day?"

    Lu Yanming continued peeling the crab, his movements elegant, as if handling a finely carved piece of beautiful jade.

    He nced at her briefly, "Eight hours during work hours is more than enough. Why would I need to work overtime?"

    Li Zhen: That makesplete sense, I have no rebuttal.

    With Li Zhen''s remark, Lu Yanming was reminded that he had not checked the chat messages in the executive group chat today.

    Lu Yanming took off his disposable gloves and took out his phone to open the voice messages.

    The first one was Wang Peng''s voice.

    Wang Peng: ¡¾We have a video call with the headquarters of Country M at 11 pm tonight. Everyone be on time.¡¿

    Li Zhen was instantly curious and took a peek.

    She could actually hear the voice messages from the executive group chat. It felt quite novel.

    But then she heard Yu Sheng''s voice in the next message.

    Yu Sheng: ¡¾Received. The marketing department has prepared relevant materials.¡¿

    Li Zhen lost interest in listening further.

    Then there were messages from various high-level executives confirming receipt.

    Li Zhen nced at the group chat interface on Lu Yanming''s phone. The executives were now actively discussing the content of tonight''s meeting via text.

    Lu Yanming had just said he didn''t work overtime, but as it turned out, he still had video conferences.

    As expected, in cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, tears mean nothing; in JinCheng, theborw means nothing.

    After listening to all the voice messages, Lu Yanming pressed the voice message button. His low voice was emotionless, ¡¾It''s after work hours. I won''t be attending.¡¿

    Li Zhen was shocked and abruptly raised her head to look at him.

    He pressed the voice message button again, ¡¾Don''t arrange work after work hours from now on. Improve efficiency. Departments that work overtime will have pay deductions.¡¿

    The previously vibrant executive group chat with a strong work atmosphere now had zero activity.

    It was as quiet as a stillke, without the slightest ripple.

    Li Zhen: ......What did I just hear?

    Pay deduction for overtime?

    No way. There must be something wrong with her ears!

    After an unknown period of time, the executive group chat, now as silent as chickens, "ding"-ed once.

    Finally there was a voice message in the group.

    Lu Yanming clicked to open it.

    Wang Peng: ¡¾Cough cough, Yanming is right. Let''s try not to work overtime after work from now on, everyone.¡¿

    Wang Peng: ¡¾Tonight''s meeting is cancelled. Everyone go to bed.¡¿

    The executive group chat, just dead silent a second ago, now became lively in an instant, with everyone quickly replying "Received".

    Lu Yanming turned off his screen. As he raised his head, he met Li Zhen''s shocked expression.

    There was a bit of food residue on her delicate lips. Along with her current expression, she looked silly and cute.

    He reached out and wiped her lips with his warm fingertips, "Why did you stop eating? What are you spacing out for?"

    The sudden warmth on her lips sent an electric tingle through Li Zhen.

    She was jolted back to her senses and jerked her head back to move away from him, blurting out inexplicably, "Mr. Lu, nice!"

    Lu Yanming retracted his hand and seemed to scoff, "Didn''t someone go around saying I''m useless?"

    Li Zhen''s phone happened to ring then.

    She didn''t hear hisst remark.

    "Xiya," Li Zhen answered the call, but her mind was still processing Lu Yanming''s words about deducting pay for overtime work.

    Zhang Xiya''s voice on the other end was simply earth-shattering, "Little Zhen Zhen! Why haven''t you joined the Husband Material Group yet! Do you know, the group exploded again just now!"

    Li Zhen nced guiltily at the man across from her and covered the headset, "I haven''t had a chance yet. What happened in the group?"

    "After so many years, a true working-ss hero finally appeared in HongHai! Just now Mr. Lu rejected overtime in the executive group chat, and screenshots were sent to our group. Mr. Lu has been deified!" Zhang Xiya was exceptionally excited, "I won''t say more, I''ll just send you the screenshots directly."

    Zhang Xiya hung up the call and immediately sent over a few screenshots.

    Li Zhen actually wanted to say no need.

    She was fortunate to have the best spectator position, okay!

    One of the screenshots was of Lu Yanming''s voice message converted to text in the executive group chat.

    The other few were screenshots of everyone in the Husband Material Group going crazy in worship.

    ¡¾I proim that this year''s most touching figure in HongHai is HongHai Executive Vice President, Mr. Lu Yanming.¡¿

    ¡¾If Lu Yanming was not born, the workce would be endless dark nights.¡¿

    ¡¾No one knows of such beauty in prosperous times, but rejecting overtime makes headlines across thend... Hahaha, in just a few minutes, Mr. Lu is already famous across all thepanies on Tianfu Second Street.¡¿

    ¡¾My friend from thepany next door also messaged to ask me about it. You''re our role model!¡¿

    ¡¾However chaotic the workce, Brother Lu has the final say!¡¿

    ¡¾Overtime pay deduction? I''m uneducated. I just want to say: Mr. Lu, you''re awesome!¡¿

    "What are you looking at?" Lu Yanming gave Li Zhen more peeled crab meat.

    Li Zhen put down her phone, "Mr. Lu, you''re trending now! All the workers around ourpany area know about you!"

    "Does the informant dislike me that much? Something that took five seconds has spread this far?" Lu Yanming watched her leisurely.

    Li Zhen: ......

    What five seconds?

    The conversation took a sudden turn. She was stunned for a moment before she finally realized!

    He knew about that incident!

    When he said "informant", his tone was sarcastic. So he also knew it was her who spread it?

    Li Zhen touched her nose and smiled, "Haha...what five seconds? I don''t know..."

    Lu Yanming: "In psychology, touching your nose is a sign of lying."

    Li Zhen almost wanted to find a crack in the floor and burrow in.

    She touched her nose when she was nervous?

    Don''t panic. He has no evidence. As long as she doesn''t admit it, what can he do, drag her to the police station?

    Wait...

    He probably could.

    Li Zhen calmed herself down and decided to mesmerize him with her beauty, and get her main agenda done at the same time.

    She got up and walked over to Lu Yanming, sitting softly into his arms,

    "Mr. Lu, what does it matter if it''s five seconds or not? No matter how fast you are, I won''t despise you for it."

    "It''ste, Mr. Lu... time to get down to business..."

 Chapter 22: Did your husband walk peacefully last night

    <h4>Chapter 22</h4>

    Seeing that Lu Yanming waspletely unresponsive, Li Zhen put her arm around Lu Yanming''s neck, "Lu..."

    Lu Yanming''s powerful big hand grasped her wrist and lifted her away in one move, "Just because we had a meal together, you''ve forgotten about beingte?"

    "Late?" Li Zhen stood there, stunned.

    Was he a normal man?

    She had thrown herself into his arms, yet he was able to lift her away?

    In the middle of the night, just the two of them, and he wanted to talk to her about beingte? As expected of someone used to being the boss, his mind was not normal.

    Li Zhen red fiercely at him, "Mr. Lu, you really are extremely virtuous!"

    Having said that, she walked angrily towards the bedroom, furious.

    Lu Yanming''s expression did not change as he got up and started clearing Li Zhen''s bowls and chopsticks.

    The porcin bowls clinked lightly against each other. He lowered his head slightly, his actions skilled yet casually elegant.

    A few minutester, Li Zhen''s head peeked out from the bedroom, smiling sincerely and amiably, "Mr. Lu, if Ie home early tomorrow night, that would be okay right?"

    "Let''s see how you behave." Lu Yanming did not even lift his head.

    "Or...I could send you to work tomorrow? To make up for today." Li Zhen smiled sincerely, actively striving for a chance to perform well.

    "We''ll talk tomorrow morning." Lu Yanming went into the kitchen.

    Acting aloof with his nose up in the air!

    The way he kept her on tenterhooks was really infuriating. Li Zhen''s fists were already clenched tightly!

    When she gets pregnant, she will definitely give him a beating to vent her anger!

    ...

    The next morning, Lu Yanming stood at the bus stop, looking puzzled, "This is what you call sending me to work?"

    Li Zhen nodded, her tone matter-of-fact, "Yes, this is how I get to work every day. It''s only half an hour to thepany, very fast."

    Lu Yanming nced at her, "I don''t need you to send me, you can go on your own."

    "No, no, Mr. Lu..." Li Zhen quickly pulled him back.

    She had said she would send him. If she didn''t manage to, he would put on airs again tonight.

    Li Zhen looked up at him, hiding the gritting of her teeth behind her smile, "I''ll call a taxi to send you!"

    Lu Yanming considered for two seconds beforepromising.

    What was wrong with taking the bus? It was spacious and had busnes so there was no traffic jam. Li Zhen grumbled in her heart, while not daring to dy calling a taxi.

    The taxi arrived and they got in.

    Li Zhen sat leisurely, but her peripheral vision suddenly noticed that the man beside her did not seemfortable, "Mr. Lu, what''s wrong?"

    "Enjoying your good intentions in sending me to work." Lu Yanmingzily smiled.

    This taxi was too small. He could not stretch out his legs fully. There was a faint, not very noticeable musty smell in the car. For the first time, he felt carsick.

    Li Zhen immediately understood that he was being sarcastic.

    Oh no, she had originally wanted to improve his impression of her today.

    But now she had offended him again.

    "If you don''t like small taxis, you should have taken the bus with me. Buses are so spacious." Li Zhen muttered softly, then raised her voice to the driver, "Master, please open the windows, thanks."

    The familiar voice made the driver look into the rearview mirror. He was excited at one nce, "It''s you!"

    Li Zhen: "Master! What a coincidence?"

    It was the taxi driver whose car had broken downst night. Li Zhen spoke to him familiarly, "Master, is your car fixed?"

    "Minor problem, recurring old issue. Went to the repair shop for a few minutes and it was fixed." The driver spoke especially lightly.

    With this rxed atmosphere, Li Zhen felt something was off.

    She was suddenly a little panicked, feeling as if she had overlooked something important.

    Until the driver''s grieved voice rang out in the car, "Did your husband pass away peacefullyst night?"

    Li Zhen: ......

    The car went silent as a vacuum.

    The air seemed to have frozen.

    Her head twisted inch by inch to meet Lu Yanming''s light colored eyes.

    The two locked eyes.

    Lu Yanming''s tone was slow and leisurely, "Li? Zhen?"

    Li Zhen felt a chill down her back from his stare. She let out two dryughs, "Mr. Lu, I can exin..."

    "No need to exin." Lu Yanming''s expression was still calm, not revealing any emotion. "Is this how you exin your husband''s matters to others?"

    He paused, "Gone in five seconds?"

    Li Zhen lowered her head sharply, not daring to look at Lu Yanming again.

    Seeing the interaction between the two in the backseat, the driver also realized something was off and wisely kept silent.

    As they neared Honghai, the driver could not resist in the end, "Miss, you and your superior, could it best night you two were... But your husband had just passed awayst night..."

    The driver knew how to imply things...

    It would have been better if he didn''t imply anything!

    Lu Yanming looked at Li Zhen again, the light reflected off his gold rimmed sses was rather sharp.

    Li Zhen felt hopeless, "Master, just drive your car..."

    They arrived at thepany.

    Li Zhen got out of the car swiftly, afraid someone would see her together with Lu Yanming, and even more afraid Lu Yanming would tear her apart if displeased.

    All the way feeling uncertain, Li Zhen went to the advertising department. Upon entering, she saw everyone was overjoyed.

    Before she even reached her work station, Zhang Xiya rushed over and hugged her.

    "Little Zhen Zhen, from now on we don''t have to work overtime!"

    Li Zhen listlessly pushed her away, "Mr. Lu just mentioned it casually in the group, don''t get your hopes up too much."

    "Haven''t you seen the bigpany group?" Meng Yuanjie came over, eyebrows dancing animatedly, "The HR department came up with a detailed n overnight, linking overtime and deducting performance. They released the execution n in the group early this morning!"

    "So efficiently?" Now Li Zhen was surprised too.

    "You know what''s most amazing?" Zhang Xiya wasughing heartily at this point, "The second after HR released the details, Mr. Lu said in the big group that HR must have worked overtime toe up with this. So their rted supervisors will have their performance deducted."

    This was indeed something Lu Yanming would do.

    Li Zhen thought that most people could not understand Lu Yanming''s principles.

    -

    Last night in the group, some were discussing if not working overtime would affect work progress.

    But today after the details were implemented, it was as if a spring had been wound up in Honghai. Everything from top to bottom started operating precisely and swiftly.

    The employees were raring to go!

    Those who could get into Honghai were the top one in ten thousand talents. With motivation, their efficiency doubled as if they had cheats. For apany with high pay, good benefits, and no overtime, the employees'' loyalty index saw exponential growth!

    The main thing was that all the workers on Tianfu Second Street now eyed Honghai covetously. Honghai had be a sweet bun that everyone wanted a bite of. Employees who did not perform well could easily be squeezed out.

    Even Li Zhen was arranged to trial shoot over ten new bracelet designs this morning.

    Goodness, not working overtime, yet why did thepany seem even morepetitive!

    Li Zhen shot all morning before finally making it to lunch break.

    On her way to the employee canteen, someone suddenly patted her shoulder, "Li Zhen, are you free now? I''d like to talk to you for a bit, may I?"

    Li Zhen looked back, somewhat surprised.

    Jiang Kening?

    Jiang Kening usually did not get along well with her. Why was she looking for her?

    Li Zhen spoke directly, "Last time you said we don''t click at all after just half a sentence."

    Jiang Kening looked around to see no one else was around. She coughed unnaturally a few times, "Li Zhen, I was wrong previously, I misunderstood you. We didn''t have many chances to talk, so we aren''t close..."

    Li Zhen remained silent.

    They were just not close? That was a very tactful way of putting it.

    "Li Zhen, I want to ask you for a small favor..." Jiang Kening''s tone was exceptionally amiable, unprecedentedly so.

    Li Zhen raised her brows in surprise, "You should look for your sister if you have anything, you shouldn''t be looking for me."

    Jiang Kening''s sister was Jiang Keyan, bombshell beauty in the PR department.

    Her sister was good looking, eloquent, and could hold her liquor.

    The PR department handled public opinion management and external image. But Jiang Keyan had be the "PR at wine tables" that department heads loved to bring along to important social events. She mixed pretty well in thepany.

    Jiang Kening: "Only you can help me with this."

    Li Zhen: "Then don''t beat around the bush. Just tell me directly if you have anything. Don''t hesitate, be open about it."

    She wouldn''t agree anyway.

 Chapter 23: Playing with Yu Sheng So pure

    <h4>Chapter 23</h4>

    Li Zhen was not a good person. Jiang Kening usually ignored her and tried to trip her up several times. Now Jiang Kening wanted her help with something? She was thinking too much.

    But Li Zhen didn''t mind hearing what it was that made Jiang Kening lower her head to ask for her help.

    "Well, I''ll just say it..." Jiang Kening pursed her lips. "You and Director Yu get along pretty well, right?"

    Li Zhen''s steady heart rate immediately went on a rollercoaster. "Quite unfamiliar, no rtionship, don''t mention it."

    Jiang Kening looked doubtful. "Aren''t you two university alumni?"

    Li Zhen panicked for a moment, then calmly retorted, "What do you want my help with?"

    Jiang Kening put away her usual arrogance. "Li Zhen, I know you and Director Yu are alumni, so he''s not as cold to you as others.

    "Does your issue have to do with Director Yu?" Li Zhen was confused.

    "Yes, I want you to help me..." Jiang Kening hesitated, her face flushing slightly. "I want you to help me give a love letter to Director Yu."

    Li Zhen was surprised. "What era is this that you''re trying such an innocent tactic on Yu Sheng?"

    Giving a love letter? That was her college move.

    Li Zhen thought for a moment, then reminded her, "You know the penalties we models have for breaching contracts, right? If you''re discovered chasing someone in thepany, there will be consequences."

    "That''s why I need your help. If it''s from me to Director Yu, with his temper, I''m afraid he''ll report it to thepany." Jiang Kening grasped Li Zhen''s hand. "Li Zhen, just help me this once. Director Yu will at least consider my face and not tell thepany even if he rejects me."

    Jiang Kening looked solemn. "My feelings for Director Yu are genuine. The other day my sister heard at a reception held by the executives that Director Yu got divorced recently. I have to make my move during his window of avability."

    She paused, her tone scornful. "I asked around about Director Yu''s ex-wife but there wasn''t a peep, she must be some unimportant penniless woman! I''m bound to seed in pursuing Director Yu."

    Li Zhen: ...Is there a possibility that the penniless woman you''re asking for help with is me?

    But Yu Sheng telling others they divorced means he''s let go like she has, that''s good.

    As long as Li Yinnan doesn''t know, it doesn''t matter who else does.

    "I''m not very close with Director Yu either, so I can''t help you. Sorry..." Li Zhen rejected her cleanly and turned to leave.

    She had only taken two steps when a cold voice came from behind. "Don''t me me for being impolite if you don''t help me."

    Li Zhen helplessly stopped. "We''re not filming a TV drama. Could you not use a viin''s tone from one? It''s really awkward."

    Jiang Kening ignored her and coldly snorted. "Li Zhen, I happened to see you and Director Yu going into a private custom clothing store yesterday. If you don''t help me, I''ll spread rumors that Director Yu''s ex-wife is you. You know thepany is very sensitive about these things..."

    "Give it to me," Li Zhen interrupted her.

    Jiang Kening, who had been chattering away, was stunned for a moment. "What?"

    Li Zhen held out her hand. "The love letter you want me to pass along."

    Jiang Kening didn''t expect Li Zhen to agree so readily before she even finished speaking.

    She carefully took out a pink envelope and ced it in Li Zhen''s palm. "Don''t throw it away halfway."

    "Passing along something is no big deal, I won''t." The small envelope in Li Zhen''s hand. "Director Yu had an event yesterday and asked me as an alumnus to apany him, that little thing is worth you spreading rumors?"

    Li Zhen walked away.

    Li Zhen wasn''t worried about Jiang Kening spreading rumors.

    Baseless rumors from someone insignificant like Jiang Kening wouldn''t make waves.

    She could see Jiang Kening was determined to get her help, so it was better to just agree and hurry off.

    After Li Zhen left, Jiang Kening took out her phone.

    She opened her work email.

    In her phone''s email interface was an anonymous message.

    The message contained only one photo, of Li Zhen and Yu Sheng wearing matching formalwear,ing out of a private custom clothing store.

    Jiang Kening''s gaze darkened as she replied: [What are your intentions?]

    She didn''t know who sent it, but she had just tested Li Zhen, so the content of the photo should be real.

    Hearing from her sister that Yu Sheng was divorced, Jiang Kening had nned to pursue him after he finished getting settled into his new promotion.

    This photo made her impatient.

    Meeting Li Zhen today was one, testing her, and two, wanting Yu Sheng to know her feelings.

    What she asked Li Zhen to pass along today wasn''t just a love letter, but also something Yu Sheng had been wantingtely.

    Something he wouldn''t reject.

    The other side replied: [If you want Yu Sheng, she''s your obstacle.]

    Jiang Kening instantly understood that the sender was Li Zhen''s enemy, wanting to use her to deal with Li Zhen.

    Jiang Kening: [I do like Director Yu, but not desperately. I won''t go so far as to damage colleague rtions for him.]

    Jiang Kening liked Yu Sheng.

    But not to the point of nobody else would do.

    If she really couldn''t catch him and he got together with Li Zhen instead, Jiang Kening had plenty of other prospects.

    Like the newly arrived Deputy Director Lu Yanming, not bad either.

    The other side replied again, this time with just a link.

    Jiang Kening clicked it suspiciously, it was a wiki page introducing a family, and seeing their surname made her raise her brows.

    The prestigious Yu Family of Jincheng.

    Summarized in four characters: century-old prominent n.

    Any domestic infrastructure, medicine, information technology, forestry, textiles, metallurgy, and other industries, couldn''t avoid the Yu Family, their wealth immeasurable.

    The Yu Family had always kept a low profile, the wiki saying they often cooperated with the military, providing raw materials and technological support.

    The wiki didn''t dare go into too much detail, but the few words were enough to see this family''s supreme glory and splendor.

    Jiang Kening had heard of this mysterious giant n, but didn''t know they were so impressive. After all, who would boredly look up wikis.

    She curiously continued scrolling down.

    Until she saw a shocking line: The Yu Family''s younger generation has two sons, the eldest named Yu Sheng, born on XXXX XX 20...

    She clearly remembered September 20st year, when she gave Yu Sheng a birthday present he didn''t ept.

    So the heir of the multi-billion Yu Family was a supervisor in Macro Sea?

    Jiang Kening''s heart thumped rapidly.

    She had always wanted to marry a rich man, but the rich men she imagined were at most like the newly arrived Deputy Director Lu Yanming, handsome, drove luxury cars, high ie.

    Now, she actually had a chance to get close to a top-tier giant n.

    She...had to have Yu Sheng.

    She couldn''t let Li Zhen stay in thepany!

    -

    Li Zhen brought the love letter to the Marketing Department.

    It was lunch break now, so the office was empty.

    She just needed to sneakily leave the letter in Yu Sheng''s office and slip away, then message him to take a look, easy task done.

    She arrived at the doorbeled "Marketing Director Office".

    Gripping the handle, she gently turned it and tiptoed in, then slowly closed the door behind her.

    Good, no one noticed.

    She softly let out a breath and turned around.

    Meeting the surprised eyes of seven or eight people.

    Li Zhen: ...

    Everyone in the room: ...

    They were sitting around arge sofa ced in the middle of the office, seeming to be having a brief meeting.

    There were a few managers from the Marketing Department, the group''s boss Wang Peng,

    And also Yu Sheng and Lu Yanming.

 Chapter 24: Oh, my God, this man is a liar.

    <h4>Chapter 24</h4>

    Li Zhen''s breath stopped abruptly.

    The time she felt embarrassed and awkward actuallysted only a second.

    But that one second felt like a year of being fried in a pan.

    Her peripheral vision happened to fall on Lu Yanming.

    He sat beside Wang Peng, dressed in a suit and tie, his eyes indifferent behind the golden-rimmed sses, staring at her...and the pink envelope in his hand.

    His expression still had the same rity and elegance as before.

    However, in the blink of an eye, she suddenly realized that Lu Yanming seemed displeased.

    She became even more flustered, hastily stuffing the envelope into the small pocket behind her pencil skirt. Her ck-and-white eyes blinked as she stammered, "Um...that...uh..."

    Everyone: ?

    Yu Sheng calmly looked at her with a serene gaze, quietly waiting for her to speak.

    Li Zhen nervously swallowed her saliva. "Um...Mr. Yu, I''ll go have lunch first. I have some work matters to attend to. I''ll talk to youter."

    After speaking, Li Zhen didn''t dare to look at anyone, turning around to leave.

    But just as she reached the door, it opened in front of her.

    The head chef of the staff canteen came in carrying several lunch boxes. "Xiao Li, you''re going to the staff canteen thiste? There''s no more food left."

    Li Zhen forced augh. "It''s fine, it''s fine. I''ll order takeout."

    Did she want lunch?

    What she wanted was an excuse to leave!

    "But won''t you have to wait for an hour?" the head chefined, cing the lunch boxes on the coffee table. "Leaders, please enjoy."

    "Li Zhen..."

    Li Zhen had just taken half a step out when she heard Yu Sheng calling her.

    Li Zhen inwardly sighed. Why did he have to call her? Was he afraid that others wouldn''t know about their past rtionship?

    She pretended not to hear and continued walking out.

    But she was abruptly pulled back by the head chef who was about to leave. "The leader is calling you, Xiao Li."

    Li Zhen wanted to ignore him, but the head chef, who was used to stirring pots, had a strong grip and forcibly dragged her back into the office.

    After the head chef left, he considerately closed the door.

    Li Zhen: ...

    "Mr. Yu." Li Zhen obediently turned around, forcing a smile on her face that looked more like a cry. She didn''t dare to lift her head, afraid that she wouldn''t be able to maintain her expression.

    She also didn''t dare to look at the others present.

    "I''m not hungry. Come and eat my portion," Yu Shengmanded without any room for refusal.

    "Mr. Yu, you''re still in a meeting. It''s not appropriate..." Wang Peng, as the leader, was always lenient towards the staff. "It''s fine, Mr. Yu shouldn''t waste the food. Come in."

    "And you,e over here," Yu Sheng said, looking at her.

    Li Zhen knew Yu Sheng''s temperament. If she said "no" at this moment, it would be useless.

    Just eat!

    If he didn''t eat, it would be best if he starved!

    One of the marketing managers sitting beside Yu Sheng had sharp eyes. He immediately stood up and gave up his seat. "Li Zhen,e, sit here."

    Li Zhen was surprised. "Do you know me?"

    The marketing manager smiled and said, "Everyone in our marketing department knows you."

    Li Zhen: ...

    Why did she ask that?

    Sometimes, Yu Sheng would treat her with a bit more care than others, disregarding the asion. The people in the marketing department were all astute, so naturally, they knew about it.

    Li Zhen sat down next to Yu Sheng.

    He opened the lunch box for her and ced it in front of her, his tone as indifferent as when he dealt with others. "If you have something, eat first. Remember it for next time."

    A few marketing managers exchanged nces, their gossip fires burning brightly.

    Li Zhen nodded silently, preparing to quickly finish her meal and leave in silence.

    Wang Peng also opened his lunchbox and said, "Let''s all eat. We''ll continue after we finish."

    Everyone bowed their heads and ate.

    "This female colleague looks somewhat familiar," Wang Peng nced at Li Zhen and then looked at Lu Yanming. "Hey, Yanming, why aren''t you eating?"

    "Not hungry," Lu Yanming replied simply. He leaned back his tall figure and casually reminded, "Wang, you forgot that on my first day in office, she fell into my arms."

    Wang Peng suddenly realized, "Oh, I remember now."

    "Cough!" Li Zhen, who was eating, choked on her food.

    "Take it slow, no need to rush," Yu Sheng raised his hand and patted her back.

    Yu Sheng stood up and walked to the water dispenser, took a cup, and his dark eyes carried a faint hint of coldness. "Mr. Lu, she only leaned on your arm, it doesn''t count as falling into your arms, right?"

    "Is that so? It''s been a long time, I can''t remember clearly. But Mr. Yu, you seem to remember this female colleague''s matter quite well," Lu Yanming''s ambiguous gaze fell on Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen, who was eating with her head lowered, felt the weight of his gaze as if it were tangible and heavy.

    Her head was pressed even lower.

    Was he angry about what happened this morning?

    It felt like he was deliberately picking on her.

    "Be careful, it''s hot. Take small sips," Yu Sheng took the water and ced it in front of her, then sat down. The genuine leather sofa slightly sank. "Mr. Lu may not know, Li Zhen and I were ssmates in university, so our rtionship is simr to that of friends, a bit closer than others."

    "Just ssmates? That''s good then, as long as boundaries are not crossed," Lu Yanming smiled lightly.

    Yu Sheng crossed his legs, his gaze directly facing the past. "Mr. Lu, with your countless responsibilities, there''s no need to be concerned about my personal affairs."

    "It''s not that I''m concerned, but I remember that there''s a rule in the Southwest Headquarters that prohibits office romances, right?" Lu Yanming continued to smile lightly, his warm and deep voice clean and low. "Getting too close in thepany could easily lead to misunderstandings."

    "Cough..." Li Zhen was once again choked by the water.

    Lu Yanming was like a thief crying "catch the thief"!

    She merely came to find Yu Sheng and he started specting about her and Yu Sheng, talking about her in a derogatory manner in front of Wang Peng.

    Fortunately, she had the foresight and didn''t let him know that she went to the Song family with Yu Shengst night.

    The managers in the marketing department discreetly exchanged nces, sensing an unusual atmosphere.

    They couldn''t tell if it emanated from Mr. Lu or Mr. Yu.

    Yu Sheng''s gaze darkened. "Just by having a meeting in thepany, people can get the wrong idea? Does Honghai need to learn from the Song Dynasty and emphasize strict separation of men and women?"

    The managers in the marketing department tensed up.

    If it were someone else, who would dare to criticize thepany in front of the CEO and the vice president?

    Only their boss could be so bold.

    "Now that Mr. Yu is so forthright, why don''t this female colleague speak up and tell us why she came to see Mr. Yu today?" Lu Yanming nced lightly at the person who was frantically finishing her food.

    He said his piece, Li Zhen pretended not to hear, and as soon as she finished thest few bites, she could leave.

    Yu Sheng''s expression had already turned so dark that water could drip from it.

    This new vice president was indeed not easy to get along with.

    Li Zhen remained silent, and the atmosphere instantly froze.

    Wang Peng was enjoying his meal when he suddenly felt a moment of silence around him. He looked up and everything seemed normal.

    He continued eating without being as vignt as he would be at a dinner table.

    Li Zhen ignored it, while Lu Yanming''s lips curved slightly, his expression as gentle and noble as ever. It seemed like he was making a serious suggestion, "This female colleague seems to have a problem with her ears. When Honghai recruits new employees next year, let''s include an ear, nose, and throat examination."

    Lu Yanming, this man! He had a peculiar temperament!

    How could anyone bear it!

    Li Zhen raised her head and ced her chopsticks on the table with a "snap." "Mr. Lu, first of all, my name is Li Zhen, not ''this female colleague'' or ''that female colleague''."

    He''s pretending not to know her.

    If her name wasn''t on his household register, she would have believed it!

    Didn''t he see with his blind eyes!

    He should go get his ears, nose, throat, and even his eyes checked!

    "Secondly, during my lunch break, I can socialize with my colleagues without breaking anyws. Mr. Lu, do you want to know more? I''m sorry, but I''m not willing to tell you!" Li Zhen''s lips were vibrant, every word she uttered was sharp.

    "I''m done eating. Sorry for the interruption, everyone." Li Zhen finished speaking and stood up in anger.

    The managers in the marketing department looked at Li Zhen''s departing figure, exchanging nces with each other.

    Yu Sheng nced at Lu Yanming, then coldly withdrew his gaze.

    He didn''t really care if Li Zhen was angry today.

    On the contrary, he subconsciously hoped that Li Zhen and the new vice president wouldn''t get along.

    Li Zhen waited for the elevator, feeling furious about the way Lu Yanming deliberately made things difficult for her.

    His genes weren''t good enough!

    He was too petty.

    Although she had spent the past couple of days spreading rumors about him being inadequate, fabricating a serious illness, and even saying he was close to death...

    Um...

    She might have gone a little too far.

    But it wasn''t intentional!

    She had her reasons!

    And yet, he embarrassingly made things difficult for her in front of their superiors.

    The elevator doors opened.

    Li Zhen was about to step inside when someone pulled her into the nearby stairwell.

    Li Zhen recognized the person and became even angrier, "Mr. Lu, didn''t you have enough fun in the office just now?"

    The stairwell had small windows, and the lighting was dim.

    Dim rays of light seeped in, falling on Lu Yanming, who was leaning against the fire door.

    He closed the door, walked towards her, his steps steady and unhurried, his broad shoulders straight.

    When he wasn''t speaking, he exuded an air of coldness that added to his usual gentleness.

    Li Zhen involuntarily became nervous, "Alright, alright. I did some unfriendly things to you these past few days. Let''s call it even for what happened just now. Don''t be angry anymore."

    She secretly nced at Lu Yanming and noticed that something was off about his expression.

    Could it be that he didn''t unleash his wrath earlier and was waiting for a moment when no one was around to scold her?

    Lu Yanming approached her, slightly bent down, and buried his head in the crook of her neck. His deep voice carried a hint of weariness, "I''m sorry."

    Li Zhen froze in ce.

    He broke the rules, why isn''t he getting angry?

    After just a second, Lu Yanming raised his head and gently lifted Li Zhen''s chin, kissing her lips.

    The movement was gentle, almost reverent.

    Dominant yet tender.

    At this moment, it was the end of the lunch break, and the corridor outside the fire door was filled with the lively sound of colleagues chatting.

    Behind the fire door, Li Zhen''s heart pounded loudly, the sound overwhelming her ears.

    In the embrace of Lu Yanming, she felt her body go weak.

    Li Zhen thought to herself, "Goodness, this man knows how to charm a person!"

 Chapter 25: The Target of Criticism

    <h4>Chapter 25</h4>

    After who knows how long, Lu Yanming finally ended the kiss.

    Li Zhen panted and looked up at him, her ear tips red, "Aren''t you angry anymore?"

    "No, I''m not angry." Lu Yanming smiled and held her in his arms. He didn''t want her to see how he looked right now.

    How could he still be angry?

    His heart was full of intricate sourness and regret that he didn''t even have time for yet.

    His self-control, his calmness, crumbled instantly when he saw her holding the pink envelope to look for Yu Sheng.

    He was so afraid, afraid that she would go back to Yu Sheng''s side again.

    But just a few days ago, he was still in M Country, without even the qualifications to meet her and talk to her. He had only had her for a few days, yet he said those things to her because of jealousy.

    As soon as she went out, he regretted it.

    "Mr. Lu, this is thepany..." Li Zhen struggled out of his embrace.

    The two of them were only using each other. This was not a romantic rtionship.

    Lu Yanming straightened up. His face was gentle and elegant. "You''ve been too merciful to me today. Next time, you can..."

    "Next time I can hit you?" Li Zhen interrupted.

    "Yes."

    Lu Yanming''s apologetic attitude was so good that Li Zhen felt bad.

    "Okay, Mr. Lu. Let''s call it even for the past few days."

    "It can''t be called even."

    "Huh?" Li Zhen frowned.

    "Consider me owing you." Lu Yanming''s eyes lowered slightly as he gazed at her steadily and attentively.

    Li Zhen realized something was not right. She was used to his arrogance and difficulty in arguing back. She was a little unused to his serious look.

    "You said it." Li Zhen avoided his gaze as her eyes darted around. "I''m going back to the advertising department."

    She circled around his tall figure. The advertising department and marketing department were only a few floors apart, so she went downstairs directly.

    The stairs were usually empty.

    Only the clear tapping sound of Li Zhen''s high heels could be heard.

    After walking down two floors, Li Zhen leaned against the wall and clutched her chest. The blush on her face had not yet faded.

    When she and Yu Sheng were still husband and wife, they tried their best to take a different route in thepany. But Lu Yanming actually secretly kissed her in thepany.

    She had originally thought it would take at least a few days to argue with Lu Yanming.

    But with just a kiss, how could it seem like there was no conflict between them?

    Li Zhen''s mind was in turmoil and she could not figure it out. She decided not to think about it and went back to the office.

    Sitting at her workstation, she suddenly remembered that she had not done the most important thing yet.

    She took out Jiang Kening''s love letter, opened it without reading the content, and quickly took a photo to send to Yu Sheng.

    She sent a line: [This is Jiang Kening''s love letter to you. You won''t get to enjoy the paper version. Just take a look at the electronic version.]

    Yu Sheng: [?]

    Li Zhen: [???]

    Yu Sheng: [You''re helping someone else deliver a love letter to me?]

    Li Zhen: [You think I want to? Your pursuer insisted on asking me to deliver it. What could I do?]

    "Little Zhen Zhen, there''s a meeting in the conference room. Stop ying with your phone." Zhang Xiya reminded from the cubicle next to her.

    "Okay." Li Zhen got up and threw all the messy things to the back of her mind.

    The conference room of the advertising department was not very big, with onerge rectangr table that could probably seat more than thirty people.

    As soon as she walked in, her eyes met Jiang Kening''s.

    She nodded at Jiang Kening to indicate that she had taken care of it.

    But in response, Jiang Kening just gave her a cold smile.

    This speed of burning bridges was too fast!

    Li Zhen didn''t care too much. As long as Jiang Kening stopped pestering her, she would rather Jiang Kening be indifferent to her.

    On the projector screen were the newly finalized products.

    Macro Sea owned many top luxury jewelry brands.

    This time it wasunching the Neb Series of its SCC Jewelry brand, mainly featuring pearls. This set of jewelry included women''s nes, bracelets, earrings, brooches, as well as men''s bracelets, cufflinks, and dress shirt studs, totaling thirty-six pieces.

    Standing at the front with aser pointer was Ren Zongshun, one of the three responsible managers in the advertising department, mainly in charge of model-rted affairs.

    After briefly introducing the new series, the projector screen switched to a schedule.

    "In the past few days, everyone has tried shooting the new products."

    "This is the shooting schedule we came up with after reviewing the results and discussing."

    "Please take a look to see if there are any issues. If not, proceed ording to this schedule."

    Generally, no one would object to what several managers had finalized.

    Ren Zongshun nced around at everyone. "You''ve all seen it, right? Dismiss if there are no issues..."

    "Manager, I have an opinion." Suddenly, a voice came from the corner.

    Everyone looked in the direction of the voice.

    Just as Ren Zongshun was wondering who was making trouble, he saw Jiang Kening stand up. "Manager, everyone can see that the main product being pushed this time for the Neb Series is that string of ster bracelets."

    Jiang Kening coldlyughed toward Li Zhen in the corner. "But you assigned most of the key shots of it to Li Zhen. She''s just a hand model. For such an important main product, it would be more appropriate to let us full-body models do it."

    There was a strange phenomenon in the model circle.

    Runway models looked down on exhibition models, exhibition models looked down on t models, full-body models looked down on partial models.

    With Jiang Kening''s words, most of the full-body models nodded in agreement.

    None of them wanted the limelight this time to be snatched away by a small hand model.

    If it was someone else, Ren Zongshun would have scolded them already. But considering Jiang Kening''s backer, thepany''s big red person Jiang Keyan, he patiently said, "Li Zhen''s hand contours are very suitable for this pearl bracelet. We looked at everyone''s test shoot results and this allocation was determined afterprehensive consideration."

    Jiang Kening: "Manager, you know that there are many influencing factors on the test shoot results."

    Li Zhen had not expected that Jiang Kening''s destruction of the bridge this time would be so thorough.

    She had just asked her to help deliver the love letter, but now she was snatching the shooting spots right in front of her.

    Zhang Xiya was furious as she red with wide eyes. "Little Zhen Zhen, what''s wrong with her today? Things have already been arranged, yet she''s still openlypeting with you. What is she trying to do?"

    At the front of the conference room, Ren Zongshun spoke gently, "Kening, let''s talk about thister. Everyone else, go get ready. The shoot will start this afternoon."

    Everyone left the conference room.

    Whispers circted among the exiting crowd.

    "If Jiang Kening hadn''t pointed it out, I wouldn''t have noticed."

    "It''s normal for Li Zhen to get more resources..."

    "How can you say that?"

    "Think about it. On the first day the new vice president arrived, she dared to throw herself into his arms. How many people could do that? And President Yu, wasn''t he also..."

    The two chatting suddenly heard a voice next to their ears, "What are you talking about? So quietly?"

    When they turned around, they were stunned.

    Li Zhen smiled, with a hint of inexplicable coldness in her smile, "Zhang Yucui, if you want to talk behind someone''s back, don''t be a coward. Speak up so I can hear it too."

    After a pause, Li Zhen kindly said, "Or if your throat''s not working well, I can get you a megaphone?"

    Li Zhen did not lower her voice. The people around had stopped enthusiastically to watch the show.

    The narrow hallway in front of the conference room was immediately jammed.

    Zhang Xiya stood side by side with Li Zhen, shaking her head in disappointment. "Little Zhen Zhen, you''re putting her in a difficult spot. Those with loose lips can never make it big. They only dare to secretly wag their tongues behind people''s backs."

    Zhang Yucui''s face immediately turned red with anger. "You two, mocking me? What did I say wrong? Ask the other colleagues. Everyone''s saying you''re trying to seduce the new vice president."

    Li Zhen: "Oh, is that so?"

    "Of course. If you don''t believe me, ask them..." Zhang Yucui looked around.

    Everyone lowered their heads, either pretending to look at their phones or fidgeting with their hands.

    Li Zhen had not scolded them. They would have to be crazy to willinglye knocking and scold Li Zhen.

    Mainly, no one felt they could out-argue Li Zhen.

    Zhang Yucui: ......

    Zhang Yucui''s face turned red with anger. "Li Zhen, don''t be arrogant. You''re just a small hand model. On what basis can you defy us full-body models? What capital do you have that makes you so haughty..."

    Zhang Yucui''s voice got smaller and smaller as she spoke.

    Because the more she spoke, the less confidence she had.

    Li Zhen straightened her chest in front of her, straightening her slender waist. Dressed simply in a white blouse and a bodycon skirt, her tall and slender figure was eye-catchingly beautiful,parable to runway models on the T stage.

    Seeing Li Zhen straighten her chest, Zhang Xiya could not helpughing and whispering in Li Zhen''s ear, "That capital is big. We all know, stop sticking it out."

    Zhang Yucui''s face turned pale.

    Li Zhen nced at her and walked towards her workstation.

    The people on both sides of the aisle immediately made way automatically.

    Passing by Zhang Yucui, Li Zhen''s eyebrows arched up slightly, and her eyes curved into a beautiful crescent as she said, "You can specte about me, and there are plenty who talk behind my back. But next time, don''t let me hear it!"

    Li Zhen''s words were not only meant for Zhang Yucui''s ears.

    After Jiang Kening''s outburst today, she had be the target of everyone''s criticisms. She didn''t care what others thought of her, as long as they didn''t say it to her face.

    She had boundaries, so that others wouldn''t cross the line.

    Those outside in the hallway hadn''t heard a thing going on inside the conference room.

    Just now, Jiang Kening had been thest to leave. Rather than following the others out the door, she had closed it behind them and turned to face Ren Zongshun. "Manager..."

    Ren Zongshun hadn''t expected her to be so stubborn this time. "I know what you''re thinking, but ns that have already been decided can''t be changed."

    "Manager, I didn''t want to talk to you about that."

    "Then what did you want to say?" Ren Zongshun looked puzzled.

    "I want to give part of my photo shoot assignments to Li Zhen."

    "What?" Ren Zongshun doubted his own ears. "You''re a full-body model, she only does hands, she can''t handle your shooting assignments..."

    Plus, the assignments were directly linked to pay, so how could Jiang Kening bear to give them up?

    "Thepany has always valued her highly, giving her more opportunities would be good training for her." Before he could say more, Jiang Kening smiled and ced a membership card on the conference table. "Oh right, this is a membership card for a restaurant you go to often. I don''t really go there myself, so why don''t you use it."

    Around four in the afternoon, the marketing director''s office was still in a meeting after a full day had passed.

    Many versions of the marketing n for the new product line had been drafted, and it wasn''t until the afternoon that they finally settled on one. Now all that remained was to finalize the execution details.

    In the three years since joining Macro Sea, Yu Sheng had gone from supervisor to manager and now director, while also grooming many capable subordinates along the way.

    One of them was Zhao Yan, the current marketing manager who was giving a report.

    He was also the one who had given up his seat to Li Zhen at lunch.

    After Zhao Yan finished presenting, Lu Yanming asked some questions which Zhao Yan answered one by one.

    Wang Pengqi was already nodding off, but forcefully kept his eyes wide open to pretend he was listening attentively.

    Sitting to the side, Yu Sheng had to admit that although he didn''t like the new deputy director, their thinking aligned surprisingly well when it came to work.

    "Director Lu, I need to step out for a document." Zhao Yan lowered his head to ask Lu Yanming for permission.

    Lu Yanming nodded.

    It was a full five minutester before Zhao Yan returned.

    Zhao Yan handed the file to Lu Yanming, stealing unnatural nces at Yu Sheng.

    Yu Sheng noticed and lifted his eyelids to look at him. "What''s the matter?"

    "Director Yu," Zhao Yan lowered his voice, but it was still clear in the quiet office, "Li Zhen from the advertising department..."

    Lu Yanming who was looking through the file stopped his motions.

    Yu Sheng''s gaze darkened.

    Zhao Yan: "Something''s happened to her."

 Chapter 26: Give Yu total down Out

    <h4>Chapter 26</h4>

    Zhao Yan looked at Yu Sheng¡¯s face change dramatically in an instant. Before he could ask, she quickly said, "I heard she went out today for an outdoor photoshoot, but she fell..."

    "Get to the point! How is she?!" Yu Sheng''s throat was burning.

    Zhao Yan: "I''m not too sure either. My colleagues just said it seemed like she hurt her hand..."

    Lu Yanming''s phone rang, his voice cold and deep, "Where is she?"

    Zhao Yan noticed both bosses'' gloomy faces, unconsciously sweating on her forehead, "I don''t know, we''ll have to contact the advertising department. They have people apanying her."

    Before Zhao Yan could finish, Yu Sheng was already out the door.

    "This..." Wang Peng was stunned for a moment.

    It was an ident involving the advertising department''s employee, he was the marketing director, it wouldn''t be appropriate for him to go.

    To pay a visit, it should be him and the vice president who should go.

    "Yanming, why don''t we also..." Wang Peng turned his head, only to find no one beside him.

    Zhao Yan wiped sweat and said, "Director Wang, President Lu seems to have gone too."

    "Young people these days..." Wang Peng hurried to catch up.

    In the hospital corridor, people crowded around each other.

    Li Zhen sat on a chair in the hallway, her right hand bandaged and hung on her chest, while her left hand was on an IV drip.

    Zhang Xiya sat next to herining, "After having a dislocated wrist and swelling up like this, she doesn''t even have a bed, isn''t our little Zhenzhen suffering too much?"

    "All major hospitals are like this, beds are tight." Qiao Yi squatted down with a stic bag as a makeshift trash can, peeling fruit.

    The corridor was too crowded and small, they could only make do with minimal items.

    Meng Yuanjie''s face was ugly, "It''s the fault of the crew, they didn''t take the set decoration seriously at all! Causing Li Zhen to fall like this."

    "You were there, why didn''t you pay more attention!" Zhang Xiya red at him.

    Meng Yuanjie was also angry with himself, why didn''t he pay more attention today.

    Today''s outdoor shoot was for full body models together. Usually partial body models don''t need to be present on location shoots. Li Zhen was notified at thest minute to shoot full body tys, also her first outdoor shoot at Macro Ocean. Things were a bit strange, it also instantly pushed Li Zhen into the limelight. Her sudden opportunity to shoot full body caused all sorts of sour gossip in the department...

    Never expected that during the shoot, she would fall. Her wrist dislocated when she tried to brace her fall on the ground. Her right hand waspletely swollen, with many small cuts on her hand from the jagged rocks.

    He should have paid more attention to her, Meng Yuanjie was also angry with himself.

    Especially when news of Li Zhen''s ident spread in the work group chat, some even made snide remarks like "She fought for the full body shoot opportunity herself, but ended up falling, what a pity", "Isn''t this our big star? Became the top pick and got to shoot full body but fell instead, look at this." Meng Yuanjie saw thesements and became even angrier.

    "Yuanjie was also busy at the time, I''m fine..." Li Zhen said strongly.

    Compared to the other three''s low moods, she sounded the least like a patient.

    Li Zhen''s dislocated wrist has already been set back in ce, the IV drip reduced the swelling, and the wounds on her hand have been medicated to stop bleeding and bandaged. The doctor said with rest for about a week she would fully recover.

    Li Zhen couldn''t stand the low pressure from the other three, "It''s just an injured hand, it''s not a big deal..."

    "Just an injured hand?" A low, angry voice sounded.

    The three were so scared they shuddered.

    Looking up, it was Yu Sheng.

    Yu Sheng''s dark eyes were frighteningly gloomy, "You think the injury wasn''t serious enough?"

    Li Zhen was so angry she wanted to retort, but seeing Yu Sheng like this, she couldn''t get the words out.

    Yu Sheng''s usually neat hair was slightly disheveled now. His sleeves messily rolled up to his elbows, revealing his muscr arms.

    His neck was covered in sweat, seeping into his shirt cor.

    One look and you could tell he rushed over urgently.

    Li Zhen lowered her head and said softly, "That''s not what I meant."

    Yu Sheng''s features were chiseled and sharp, but now his eyes were bloodshot. He walked over step by step, his footsteps heavy and steady.

    Zhang Xiya and the others felt the approaching pressure and became somewhat afraid. They had thought President Yu would explode in anger and scold them.

    But the next second, they witnessed something that made their jaws drop,pletely unable to believe their eyes.

    Yu Sheng''s tall figure suddenly lowered down, kneeling on one knee, and pulled Li Zhen into his embrace.

    His voice was hoarse and aggressive, "Are you a child? How could you fall and hurt yourself!"

    Everyone gave different versions about Li Zhen''s condition, Yu Sheng''s heart rate never went back to normal the whole way here. Seeing her now with an IV drip and bandages, looking wretched sitting here, he was both angry and anxious.

    Yu Sheng hugged Li Zhen tightly, his racing heart still hadn''t calmed down.

    The corridor was crowded with peopleing and going, narrow and cramped.

    Passersby couldn''t help but nce at them.

    Qiao Yi: ......

    Zhang Xiya: ......

    Meng Yuanjie: ......

    The three''s eyes shook violently, exchanging looks with each other, not saying anything but conveying everything with their eyes.

    Zhang Xiya swiftly created a small chat with the three on her phone.

    Zhang Xiya: ¡¾......What does this mean? What does this mean?¡¿

    Attached was a frightened kitten expression pack.

    Meng Yuanjie: ¡¾......It can''t be what I''m thinking right?¡¿

    Qiao Yi: ¡¾......It should be exactly that!¡¿

    Zhang Xiya: ¡¾Ahhhhh! So our little Zhenzhen has gotten President Yu! Such promise! Smug kitten hitting bed ipg.¡¿

    Meng Yuanjie: ¡¾Control your expressions! President Yu is right there!¡¿

    Zhang Xiya knew that too.

    But it was too difficult, she couldn''t control herself!

    Zhang Xiya had already lost control of her expressions, baring her teeth in a grin would be an apt description. ¡¾Ahhhhh! I can''t control it! The big male god actually got taken down by my sister, should I be jealous or give blessings!¡¿

    Zhang Xiya: ¡¾No! The point is! President Yu that little Zhenzhen got was our president! Aren''t we going to benefit and be able to strut around thepany now?¡¿

    Qiao Yi carefully nced at Yu Sheng and Li Zhen, and stealthily typed: ¡¾Did you forget thepany prohibits workce rtionships? We can''t talk about this.¡¿

    Without Qiao Yi''s reminder, Meng Yuanjie and Zhang Xiya naturally knew too.

    Li Zhen had one hand on an IV drip and one hand hung up, she didn''t dare move at all, "Yu Sheng, let me go."

    But Yu Sheng only held her tighter.

    -

    Wang Peng followed behind Lu Yanming the whole way.

    Although Wang Peng was older in age, he rarely went to hospitals.

    The pungent smell of disinfectant and the loud, chaotic noises made his head buzz.

    Exiting the elevator and turning a corner, Lu Yanming who was walking urgently suddenly stopped in his tracks.

    If not for Wang Peng''s quick reflexes, he would have bumped into him, "Why did you stop, Yanming?"

    The whole way here Lu Yanming had the pedal to the metal.

    Why did he suddenly stop here?

    Although he didn''t understand, after just a second Wang Peng hurriedly nodded, "Alright, I''ll head back first then."

    Wang Peng took two steps and heard the dejected voice behind him, "Director Wang, do you have cigarettes?"

    "I do." Wang Peng looked back in surprise and took out the cigarettes and lighter, handing them over, "Don''t you not smoke?"

    Lu Yanming took them without responding.

    Wang Peng felt it was strange but didn''t ask more, and turned to leave.

    Lu Yanming leaned against the icy wall,zily standing there, closing his unique light colored eyes, breathing heavily with his chest slowly rising and falling.

    Behind him in the corridor, Yu Sheng was kneeling and hugging Li Zhen.

    Amongst the flowing crowd.

    Their image was especially eye-catching.

    You couldn''t smoke in the hospital. Lu Yanming took out an unlit cigarette, biting it between his lips. The faint nicotine scent spread in his mouth.

    "Li Zhen." The low, slow voice spilled from his throat.

    There was uncontroble sourness in his eyes.

    He raised his hand to take off the gold rimmed sses.

    The distinct hand pressed on his aching eyes.

    His heart ached, tingling all over.

    It wasn''t jealousy.

    He was just so afraid.

    Lu Yanming sent a message to Fei Zhao.

    ¡¾Arrange a patient room.¡¿

    -

    Li Zhen''s luck exploded.

    While getting the IV drip, she was suddenly notified that a VIP suite room was avable.

    The doctor who oversaw her relocation in under three minutes just now, now apanied by the hospital president, several department chiefs, and three nurses, enthusiastically led her to the patient room holding up her IV drip.

    Li Zhen looked at the spacious luxurious patient room, then back at the group of doctors and nurses behind her, her mood instantly plummeted to rock bottom, "Doctor, I can handle it, just tell me straight."

    The hospital president''s face struggled, "But, that person said not to say..."

    Li Zhen looked to Yu Sheng, "You told them not to say?"

    Yu Sheng shook his head, also wondering about the current situation.

    Li Zhen was not feeling well after standing and squatting in the corridor for a long time. Her waist and back ached. Now she saw that there was a doctor apanying Yu Sheng while Zhang Xiya and the other two were already lying on the sofa.

    Li Zhen took a deep breath and asked the doctor, "Doctor, stop beating around the bush. Is it cancer? How many months do I have left?"

    Seeing her in this state, the hospital probably figured she had less than three months left. In a sh, she had already thought through how to settle her affairs afterwards.

    The chief doctor immediately understood what Li Zhen meant. "No, no, you''ve misunderstood. It''s...it''s just that our hospital currently has reporters doing interviews, so today we''re raising our service standards."

    Li Zhen patted her chest. "You scared me to death. Your service standards improved too suddenly. I suggest you be more pragmatic. Vanity projects are not advisable."

    "Ok, ok," the head doctor quickly nodded.

    A nurse helped Li Zhen onto the bed while the head doctor hung up an IV drip for her. Then a dozen or so doctors filed in one after another, bringing several instruments and attaching various real-time monitoring devices to her body.

    Until a transparent tube was brought to her mouth, Li Zhen really couldn''t take it anymore. "Doctor, I''m only 26 this year."

    She had endured the IV drip and real-time monitoring of her pulse and heartbeat, but she didn''t need an oxygen mask, right? This gave her the false impression that her life was in critical danger.

    The hospital''s vanity project was really over the top.

    -

    After the IV drip, Zhang Xiya and the others apanied Li Zhen to the hospital entrance.

    Li Zhen took a deep breath. She felt like the air outside was sweet, even though the sky was gloomy and looked like it would rain.

    Just now in the VIP room, only Yu Sheng had sat by the bed the entire time to apany Li Zhen. Zhang Xiya and the other two found the hospital room sofortable that they had taken a nap. Now at the hospital entrance, they were enjoying stretchingzily.

    "Let''s go, Meng Yuanjie..." Li Zhen walked ahead feeling carefree andfortable.

    But Meng Yuanjie didn''t follow.

    Li Zhen looked back in surprise. "Let''s go. Weren''t you going to drive me back?"

    Meng Yuanjie scratched his nose and nced at Yu Sheng standing impressively to the side. "Li Zhen, I...I''m out of gas. I need to refuel and can''t drive you back."

    Before Li Zhen could ask, Zhang Xiya quickly chimed in, "Oh dear, how unlucky. I''m out of gas too."

    Li Zhen instantly understood what was going on with them.

    She looked at Qiao Yi, "Are you out of gas too?"

    Qiao Yi smiled. "I knew you were here after getting Zhang Xiya''s message, so I didn''t drive over. I came with her."

    Yu Sheng had already opened the passenger door of his Mercedes-Benz. "Get in, I''ll drive you back."

    Zhang Xiya and the others had a shocked expression, gazing at the two with eyes full of stars.

    Li Zhen: ...

    Li Zhen got in.

    Yu Sheng bent down slightly, reached out and pulled the seatbelt over her, buckling her in.

    From the perspective of the other three, it looked like Yu Sheng was gently holding Li Zhen in his embrace.

    Zhang Xiya was screaming hysterically inside!

    Yu Sheng straightened up and went around to the driver''s seat, stepping on the gas pedal and leaving.

    In the car, Yu Sheng''s gaze calmly watched the road ahead. He had wanted to ask earlier, "You''re a hand model. Why were you on a location shoot today?"

    "I don''t know either. I got a sudden notice to do a full body ty shoot." Li Zhen also found it strange when mentioning it.

    "How did you fall?"

    "It was an ident. Today''s location was a cement tform about one meter high. I was standing on it, it was too slippery and I fell off."

    In order to get the desired photo effect, the tform was over one meter high.

    Below was all jagged gravel spread out.

    To prevent her face from hitting the ground, when she fell the only thing she could do was try to brace herself with her hands. As a result, she dislocated her shoulder and the sharp gravel also scraped her and caused some wounds.

    Yu Sheng nodded slightly and didn''t say anything more, but his dark eyes gradually darkened.

    What a coincidence?

    She was suddenly arranged to do a location shoot and got injured the first time?

    Drip, drip. Raindrops lightly tapped on the car window.

    It started raining.

    Li Zhen looked out the window and suddenly eximed, "Wait! This isn''t the road to my dorm!"

    "You still want to live alone?" Yu Sheng nced at her dangling right hand. His dark eyes deepened. "With your hand like this, how will you eat and bathe?"

    Li Zhen didn''t react for a moment. "Then where are you taking me?"

    Yu Sheng coldly threw out, "Come home with me."

 Chapter 27: Li Zhen Naughty Three Thousand Questions

    <h4>Chapter 27</h4>

    "Stop!" Li Zhen undid her seatbelt.

    "Li Zhen, don''t throw a tantrum!" Yu Sheng frowned as he pulled the car over. "With your injured hand, you can''t take care of yourself. Do you want to lose your hand? Don''t forget you are a hand model."

    Yu Sheng always knew how to make Li Zhen fly off the handle. She gave a coldugh, "Hand model isn''t my dream job. I don''t care if I have to quit!"

    "Are you ming me for getting you the job at Macro Ocean? I told you that you don''t need to work. You said you couldn''t stand staying home all day."

    "Yu Sheng, I''m not..." your essory!

    Li Zhen lightly dug her nails into her palm, feeling a slight pain. The words stuck in her throat.

    She wanted a life of her own, not contentment in a greenhouse under his protection.

    But there was no need to tell him that now.

    Li Zhen''s emotions cooled in an instant. She got out of the car, "I''ll go home myself, don''t send me."

    Conversations with him were fine until he started talking. A few sentences were enough to start an argument. Li Zhen couldn''t be bothered to say more to him.

    "Get in the car!" Yu Sheng''s face was dark as ink. "It''s raining!"

    Li Zhen ignored him.

    Yu Sheng''s face grew stormy as he tried to restrain his anger. "It''s raining. You can''t get your bandages wet."

    "We''re divorced. You don''t need to manage my affairs anymore."

    Li Zhen''s words clenched Yu Sheng''s eyebrows into a straight line. He gave a coldugh, "You need to learn a lesson."

    He rolled up the car window and drove off in a roar of the engine.

    Li Zhen called for a taxi on her phone but it would take five minutes to arrive.

    She plopped down at the roadside, feeling her eyes grow moist.

    She just didn''t like the hand model job.

    In the first two years they were together, she had told him she loved acting. He would always listen to her intently as she talked about ys and fantasized about bing a big star in the future.

    She probably repeated the same hundred stories a thousand times.

    But he always listened earnestly.

    Every time she finished, he would say, "That''s good if you like it..."

    What made him change?

    It didn''t matter. It was all in the past. She and him were over.

    But she only had so many years in her life.

    The rain grew heavy, falling on her head and shoe tips. The cool sensation made her still-swollen wrist sting.

    Li Zhen sniffed as she felt even more miserable.

    Suddenly, a pair of polished ck leather shoes appeared in her vision and the rain seemed to stop instantly.

    The next second, a suit jacket was draped over her shoulders, carrying the smell of wood and the warmth of its owner''s body as it wrapped around her.

    She looked up.

    Lu Yanming stood tall above her, his face sculpted yet gentle, gazing at her coolly from behind his gold-rimmed sses.

    His long, straight right hand held a ck umbre, shielding herpletely while he stood in the rain.

    Raindrops eagerly slipped into his expensive shirt.

    Lu Yanming held out his hand to her, "Aren''t you going to get up?"

    Li Zhen blinked, feeling her heart sink heavily. Her voice was soft and sticky, "I called a car."

    "Cancel it."

    "Oh."

    Li Zhen ced her left hand in his. His hand was big and solid, giving her a steady sense of security.

    With just a light pull, he brought her to her feet.

    "Mr. Lu..."

    "Hmm?"

    "I''m hungry."

    "I see."

    -

    A hungry person couldn''t wait for a meal to be cooked. Lu Yanming took her to a Western restaurant and had the waiter cut up her steak into small pieces so she could eat easily with her fork in her left hand.

    After their meal, Lu Yanming drove to the apartment building.

    Sunflower Gardens was an oldplex without underground parking. After searching for ten minutes, he found a small, undesirable spot in the corner that no one wanted to park in.

    The spot was next to the wall so Li Zhen had to get out first and stand under a tree to avoid the rain.

    Lu Yanming expertly parked the car in the tight spot.

    He got out of the car, pressing the key fob. The Mercedes'' expensive headlights shed, lighting up half theplex.

    "Let''s go." Lu Yanming held the ck umbre over Li Zhen as they walked forward.

    "Mr. Lu, don''t executives like you get nicerpany housing? Why are you staying in a ce like this?" Li Zhen asked curiously. After all, the oldplex was inconvenient in many ways.

    They were close, with Li Zhen almost brushing against his arm.

    She looked up at him. The aging lights in theplex flickered erratically, sharpening his facial lines.

    What a gorgeous face.

    Hopefully his good genes would be perfectly passed down to her darling baby.

    "Is that so? I didn''t know. I just picked a ce randomly," Lu Yanming answered casually.

    "Mr. Lu, why didn''t you ask how I hurt my hand?"

    "It''s already spread around thepany."

    "Mr. Lu, how did you happen to walk by that road today?" Li Zhen asked again.

    "I went to buy something over there." Lu Yanming nced at her, amusement lurking in his light eyes. "Is today Li Zhen asks three thousand questions day?"

    Li Zhen lowered her head bashfully, "I just suddenly thought of it and wanted to ask."

    The two entered the apartment.

    Lu Yanming changed his shoes and hung up his half-wet suit jacket at the entrance. He seemed to ask casually, "You got rained on today. You should take a shower. With your hand, do you need my help?"

    Li Zhen, who had just reached the bedroom door, swayed in fright. "No need, no need..."

    After their lingering intimacy the previous night, he had carried her to bathe when she was too tired. The mood and atmosphere made it seem natural.

    But out of the blue like this, she couldn''t ept a man she''d known only a few days helping her shower.

    Lu Yanming brought the umbre out to the balcony and opened it to dry.

    She heard his indistinct voice float in from the balcony, "Weren''t you quite open thesest few days? Why so shy when you''re sick?"

    Li Zhen steeled herself and raised her voice, "Who''s shy? I just..."

    Lu Yanming put the umbre away and walked back in.

    With his long legs, he reached her in just a few strides. His height of six foot something faintly emitted a sense of masculine intimidation. "What is it?"

    Li Zhen swallowed and looked up at him slightly.

    His wless facial lines, noble gold-rimmed sses, alluring light eyes, and sexy lips erged limitlessly before her eyes.

    She suddenly recalled learning in university that they had the perfect height difference for kissing.

    "Li Zhen..." Lu Yanming bent down slightly, meeting her gaze evenly.

    The woody scent on him rapidly approached her. Li Zhen''s body instantly tensed up. "Ah?"

    "Just now, you swallowed when you looked at me." Lu Yanming slowly moved even closer, nuzzling her nose with his. "Are you trying to seduce me?"

    Li Zhen was so embarrassed she wanted to find a hole to hide in. She felt her brain instantly flush with blood and her ear tips burn hotly. "No, Mr. Lu..."

    Amusement lurked in Lu Yanming''s light eyes. He lightly kissed her ming ear tip. "I think you are..."

    Li Zhen''s heart pounded like it would leap out of her chest.

    When she took the lead, she could force herself to stay calm.

    But when Lu Yanming wanted her, the intense feeling of being overtaken made her afraid.

    Li Zhen''s voice trembled slightly, "Mr. Lu...mmmph..."

    Lu Yanming tilted up her chin and kissed her forcefully, not allowing any refusal.

    He pushed her back against the wall.

    The kiss was impatient, as if confirming something, yet also devoutly demanding. Her air waspletely stolen away and her mind sank hazily.

    Her legs turned soft from his kisses and she leaned powerlessly against the wall, only knowing to tilt her head back submissively.

    Just as she started to slide down, Lu Yanming wrapped an arm around her waist, picked her up face-to-face, and carried her kissing towards the bathroom.

    Li Zhen could only cling tightly to him.

    His body was just as hot as hers. The hard, hot muscles under his shirt restlessly flexed and shifted as he walked.

    Lu Yanming set her down on the bathroom counter, releasing her slightly swollen lips.

    He raised his hand and loosened his pinstripe tie.

    Li Zhen''s mind cleared and she eximed, "Mr. Lu, shower y?"

 Chapter 28: You can have fun.

    <h4>Chapter 28</h4>

    "You''re quite yful..." Lu Yanming let out a lightugh, teasing, "With such serious injuries, don''t be thinking indecent thoughts for at least a hundred days."

    Li Zhen''s face instantly turned red.

    Lu Yanming took off his sses and tied the tie he had removed over his eyes, "So you''re more open now? Will you let me bathe you?"

    Li Zhen was stunned.

    So, Lu Yanming had kissed her just to get her to rx?

    Lu Yanming took a step back, widening the too-close distance between them. He stood tall before her, exuding a thick aura of restraint.

    "Mr. Lu..." Li Zhen''s heart quivered, blurting out a fragmented question, "Are you this nice to everyone?"

    "Perhaps I am, you''d have to ask everyone to know."

    Lu Yanming raised his hand, his protruding knuckles powerful and graceful beneath the warm lights of the bathroom, appearing exceptionally slender and noble.

    That hand dexterously made its way to the buttons on Li Zhen''s chest, undoing them one by one.

    Li Zhen felt her whole body grow hot, the heat scorching.

    He politely reminded her, "Li Zhen, I''m about to start."

    Li Zhen: ...There was no need to say it aloud.

    -

    The next day, Li Zhen groggily opened her eyes.

    ncing at her phone, it was already 10:30 am!

    She waste!

    She bolted up, ready to get dressed for work, when a conspicuous note on her bedside caught her eye.

    The writing on it was powerful and vigorous.

    ¡¾I''ve gotten you time off work today. Breakfast is warming in the kitchen.¡¿

    Li Zhen instantly rxed.

    After leisurely eating breakfast, she headed to work on the bus.

    She had just stepped into the office when Zhang Xiya and Qiao Yi came rushing over in shock.

    Zhang Xiya supported her, incredulous, "Ancestor! Didn''t thepany give you sick leave? How are you still eagerlying in?"

    "Don''t help me, it''s no big deal..." Li Zhen shook off her hand and strode to her own workstation, "We have a huge amount of shooting tasks right now. If I take time off now, my pay this month will be pitiful."

    Qiao Yi red with wide eyes, "With your hand like that, how can you shoot?"

    Li Zhen: "Don''t I still have my left hand?"

    Most of the scenes only needed one hand anyway.

    Zhang Xiya gave a thumbs up, "No wonder your sry is always so high! Model worker!"

    Li Zhen nced around, "Where''s Yuanjie? Did he go to the photography studio?"

    "You didn''t know..." At this, Zhang Xiya lowered her voice, "About what happened with you yesterday, thepany is investigating heavily."

    "Everyone who was on the outdoor shooting location yesterday was called to the conference room. It''s almost noon and they still haven''te out."

    Qiao Yi: "I messaged Yuanjie but he didn''t reply, his phone was probably confiscated. I went upstairs to ask earlier. The admin department people said thepany called the police. They had already arrived this morning before we even got to work."

    Li Zhen was a bit confused listening to this: "Are you talking about what happened to me? I just tripped yesterday, it was just an ident. Why would thepany call the police?"

    "I don''t know..." Zhang Xiya shook her head.

    The rest of thepany was also surprised.

    An employee tripping wasn''t a big deal. They didn''t expect thepany to take it so seriously.

    "But there''s something else, you''ll probably be more interested in this." Zhang Xiya raised her eyebrows at Li Zhen.

    "What is it?"

    "You know how thepany is docking performance pay for overtime now. Yesterday, only one person in the entirepany got their performance pay docked. Want to guess who?"

    "I don''t want to know, don''t tell me."

    Even with something wrong in her head, Li Zhen knew who it was. But she didn''t want to talk more, otherwise Zhang Xiya would probably get even more excited.

    "Of course it was President Yu. President Yu is practically a workaholic!" Zhang Xiya''s excitement didn''t diminish in the slightest. She couldn''t help but ask again, "Little Li Zhen, what''s going on between you and President Yu? Don''t hide anything, tell us!"

    Qiao Yi seemed disinterested on the surface, but her ears had already perked up.

    The scene at the hospital yesterday had been far too shocking. They hadn''t slept wellst night, preupied with the surprise of how their good friend had gotten together with President Yu.

    Li Zhen shifted aside, "If you want to gossip, don''t gossip about me. Go gossip about someone else!"

    She wasn''t surprised that Yu Sheng had dumped her halfway and still gone back to work overtime at thepany.

    "I''m not gossiping, I''m showing concern. Don''t reject me, open your heart and tell us..." Zhang Xiya pleaded in a cutesy tone.

    It wasn''t that Li Zhen didn''t want to tell Zhang Xiya.

    But she and Yu Sheng were already divorced, so she really didn''t know what to say.

    Just then, the people who had been called to the conference room returned, and the office instantly livened up. Those who hadn''t gone crowded around the returning people, eagerly questioning them.

    Meng Yuanjie headed straight for the three girls.

    Zhang Xiya''s eyes shone brightly, her attention instantly shifting from gossiping about Li Zhen to gossiping about Meng Yuanjie. "You''re finally back! How were things upstairs? Why is thepany making a big fuss over a small issue?"

    "It was frightening upstairs just now. You don''t know, it was like an interrogation with three judges!" Meng Yuanjie had the expression of someone who had narrowly escaped death. "So many top executives of thepany were there, along with police officers, asking each of us questions even more detailed than our job interviews."

    Qiao Yi cared more about the result. "So did they find anything out?"

    Meng Yuanjie looked at Li Zhen. "We all thought it was an ident yesterday, right? But guess what! It turned out to be deliberate!"

    Qiao Yi, Zhang Xiya, and Li Zhen all gasped in unison: "Deliberate!"

    After individually questioning everyone in the conference room today and examining the scene of the incident yesterday, it turned out someone had snuck onto the set and applied a thinyer of wax to the table surface, causing Li Zhen to slip.

    Clearly there was an inside aplice.

    They were currently investigating the identity of the infiltrator and the aplice.

    Most importantly, there were also water stains near the scene. The water source was connected to a damaged power cord. Someone else had noticed it afterwards and thought it was a coincidence. If Li Zhen had touched the water stains, it wouldn''t have been as simple as just getting injured.

    Qiao Yi''s face had paled two shades from fear. "How is this any different from attempted murder?"

    "Who would be so vicious!" Even Li Zhen felt terrified in retrospect.

    "Little Li Zhen, you have to be careful from now on! Could they have been targeting you?" Zhang Xiya''s eyes were wide as copper bells.

    "Can''t say for sure. After all, there were quite a few people scheduled to shoot there yesterday, it''s not definite they wereing for you. But being cautious is necessary." Meng Yuanjie had been at Macro Ocean for many years, and this was the first time he had encountered such an incident. He had thought it was a small matter at first, but thepany was investigating heavily. The more they looked into it, problems emerged.

    Li Zhen nodded. Of course she understood that.

    Li Zhen''s workload today was quite light. As she was leaving work, she received a message from Yu Sheng telling her to wait for him next to his car in the parking garage after work.

    He didn''t say what for. Li Zhen chose to ignore it and not reply.

    Soon after, Yu Sheng sent another message: ¡¾If I don''t see you there more than 3 minutes after work ends, I''ming to the advertising department.¡¿

    Even through the screen, Li Zhen could imagine Yu Sheng''s irritating tone!

    So annoying, but no choice but to be effective.

    After work, Li Zhen went downstairs and saw Yu Sheng next to the Mercedes.

    Seeing her approach, he nced at her bandaged right hand before opening the passenger door for her.

    Li Zhen didn''t move, ring at him warily with clear eyes, "Where are you taking me?"

    Knowing what she was thinking, Yu Sheng''s brows furrowed in displeasure. "Not taking you home."

    "I..."

    "Shut up and get in the car." Yu Sheng was impatient. Thinking of yesterday''s events made his expression even colder. "I still haven''t settled ounts with you about helping others give me love letters."

    With Yu Sheng''s temperament, if Li Zhen hadn''t been helping, perhaps no one at thepany would have dared take the initiative to pursue him.

    Li Zhen coughed awkwardly. "Fine, I''ll go with you, but I only have two hours. Then I need to go back..."

    "Why the rush to go back?" Yu Sheng fastened her seatbelt for her.

    Of course it was to go back and rx watching TV!

    Surely he wasn''t thinking of working overtime like him?

    Li Zhen didn''t answer, turning to look out the window. She saw Jiang Kening rushing over in high heels.

    The parking area here was exclusive for Macro Ocean''s top executives, rtively secluded. Basically no one came by, so Jiang Kening was clearly here for Yu Sheng.

    Li Zhen wanted to hide but it was toote. She grabbed Yu Sheng''s clothes next to her and covered herself with them.

 Chapter 29: This car doesnâ€™t deserve you.

    <h4>Chapter 29</h4>

    Jiang Kening only had eyes for Yu Sheng, and didn''t notice Li Zhen who was covered by clothes beside her. She walked to the driver''s cabin, smiled gently through the window, "President Yu, we''re leaving now to find Chairman Zhou, right?"

    She knew thepany''s new jewelry series and wanted to ce homepage ads on Wenfang Video, but the marketing department hadn''t reached a deal yet, so thepany asked Yu Sheng to help contact.

    The love letter Jiang Kening wrote yesterday only confessed her feelings in a few words. More importantly, she made a date with Yu Sheng tonight to meet the person he most wanted to see now: the person in charge of Wenfang Video.

    The person in charge of Wenfang Video met some friends at a bar to have fun tonight. Jiang Kening knew a friend who could bring her and Yu Sheng along. Yu Sheng was always very career-oriented, he certainly wouldn''t refuse.

    Yu Sheng nced at her lightly, he didn''t refuse, but his words werepletely different from what Jiang Kening thought, "I''m going to see Chairman Zhou, but not with you."

    Jiang Kening''s expression changed. "What do you mean by that, President Yu?"

    "You only know Chairman Zhou met some friends tonight. Do you know who he met?" Yu Sheng looked at her coldly, "Me."

    Jiang Kening waspletely stunned. The friends Chairman Zhou met were Yu Sheng? Then wasn''t what she did like a clown''s act?

    She didn''t realize the rtionship between Yu Sheng and Li Zhen was so close!

    Yu Sheng started the car and rejected mercilessly, "I''m not interested in you, stay away from me."

    Li Zhen didn''t dare to move, trying to minimize her presence. She felt a little sympathy for Jiang Kening, Yu Sheng was a diehard straightforward man, he was the least likely to give women face.

    The car started and drove past the stiff Jiang Kening.

    Only then did Jiang Kening notice that there seemed to be someone in the passenger seat, just covered by clothes earlier so she didn''t see clearly.

    It must be Li Zhen!

    Yesterday''s incident was done seamlessly by her, yet thepany wanted to investigate it so grandly, it must be because the injured person was Li Zhen!

    How did she not realize earlier that the rtionship between Li Zhen and Yu Sheng was so close!

    "Finished eavesdropping?" The car drove out of the garage, and Yu Sheng nced at Li Zhen who was covered by clothes and curled up like a ball.

    Li Zhen flipped open the clothes, her long hair was slightly messy from being rubbed by the clothes, "You can''t be taking me to meet some Chairman Zhou, right?"

    She didn''t understand anything about the business field.

    Also, one of her hands was still in a sling.

    Li Zhen boldly guessed, "Could it be that the negotiation didn''t go well, so you''re preparing to use me, your disabled colleague, to gain sympathy?"

    Yu Sheng sneered coldly, "Since you put it that way, I can consider it."

    Li Zhen pursed her lips and didn''t speak again.

    Yu Sheng took Li Zhen into a bar.

    In the lobby of the bar, a sultry DJ was on the high stage, overlooking the swaying men and women in the dance floor. Around the dance floor there were manyrge and small booths.

    In the corner was an exceptionally spacious and luxurious booth, with seven or eight men and women sitting there.

    Yu Sheng scanned the surroundings and walked over there.

    The bar was crowded with people.

    Yu Sheng walked half a step in front of Li Zhen, protecting her injured hand wrapped in bandages in a safe triangr area.

    As soon as the two of them approached, the two men who were surrounded by people in the booth immediately stood up, with pleasant surprise on their faces, "Bro Sheng! Sister-inw!"

    "Zhou Chaowen, Wan Zhe?" Li Zhen was shocked and looked at Yu Sheng beside her, asking in a low voice, "Zhou Chaowen is the Chairman Zhou you''re meeting?"

    Yu Sheng nodded, "Who else could it be? Did you really think I''d bring you to discuss business?"

    When Zhou Chaowen saw Li Zhen''s hand, he blurted out, "Sister-inw, what happened to your hand..."

    "I identally fell, just a small problem." Li Zhen replied, extremely embarrassed by being called sister-inw. Family stability was a very importantbel for a sessful businessman, Yu Sheng probably wanted her to cooperate and act out a harmonious family, to facilitate discussing things with Zhou Chaowen.

    Zhou Chaowen hurriedly shooed people sitting beside him away and pulled Yu Sheng and Li Zhen to sit in the middle, "Bro Sheng, sister-inw,e and sit, I missed you guys so much!"

    Wan Zhe poured drinks and juices for the two, "Bro Sheng, you finally came out to meet us. We haven''t seen each other for three years, right?"

    "I''ve been too busy with work..." Yu Sheng exined.

    Zhou Chaowen and Wan Zhe were Yu Sheng''s roommates in college. The three of them went to ss together, yed ball together, ate together in college, and were very close.

    After graduating, Yu Sheng worked overtime every day and had almost no contact with his old friends, so they hadn''t met for a long time.

    Zhou Chaowen sat next to Yu Sheng and put his arm around his shoulder, "Bro Sheng, if not for your message yesterday, I wouldn''t even know you were in Honghai. What''s the point of working for others? Come to Wenfang, I''ll make you vice president."

    Wenfang Video was a very hot video software now, integrating viewing, live streaming, socializing and more.

    Its daily active users had already exceeded 700 million.

    The vice president position Zhou Chaowen offered was about the same level as Yu Sheng''s Marketing Director at Honghai.

    Yu Sheng''s cold profile showed a trace of affinity in front of his old brothers, "I''m doing well at Honghai."

    Wan Zhe also persuaded, "Bro Sheng, back in college we all listened to you, but this time you have to listen to your brother. Come work with Chaowen, there''s plenty of money waiting for you to earn."

    After graduating, Wan Zhe followed Zhou Chaowen. He was now the CFO of Wenfang.

    "Oh right, Bro Sheng, what car are you driving now?" Zhou Chaowen suddenly asked.

    "Mercedes-Benz E-ss." Yu Sheng answered truthfully.

    Zhou Chaowen pped his thigh, "That car¡¯s not good enough for you. I''m driving a Range Rover now, only drove it for half a year. If you don''t mind, just take it. I got a new car recently so don¡¯t need the Range Rover anymore."

    Yu Sheng: "No need, I''m used to driving this one, I think it''s fine."

    Li Zhen was sitting quietly drinking juice.

    Zhou Chaowen was still the same as in college, willing to give his heart and soul for his brothers.

    Back in college, Zhou Chaowen always rushed to pay whenever they dined out. He would always buy four sets of shoes and jerseys, one set for each person in their dorm.

    She didn''t expect him to be even more generous now, just giving away a 2 million dor car so casually.

    She was a little envious of Yu Sheng, for having such a generous friend.

    Just as Li Zhen was feeling emotional, she suddenly heard an extremely familiar voice.

    Her college roommate, currently popr entertainment darling: Dong Wanwan.

    "Li Zhen, Bro Sheng, long time no see." Dong Wanwan had just arrived and snuggled up to Zhou Chaowen, speaking coquettishly, "Hubby, you''re too stingy! Giving Bro Sheng an old car, when our family has plenty of money. If giving a gift, it should definitely be a new car!"

    Knowing she was meeting her college crush tonight, Dong Wanwan dressed especially morously today.

    Sitting there, Yu Sheng''s back was straight, his legs casually crossed. He had a few more touches ofposurepared to his youth, but the coldness and powerful aura he exuded were still exactly the same.

    "Wifey is right!" Zhou Chaowen kissed Dong Wanwan.

    "Hubby, there are others here." Dong Wanwan acted shy, her voice soft enough to drip water.

    Li Zhen looked away, feeling Dong Wanwan''s pretentious act was really harsh on the eyes.

    If not for Wenfang Video''s heavy promotion, Dong Wanwan probably wouldn''t have survived in the entertainment industry.

    She didn''t expect that the two were actually married now.

    Zhou Chaowen had poor judgement of character!

    Dong Wanwan: "Li Zhen, you were the teacher''s favorite in our university''s Acting Department. What big films have you been shooting recently? Let me know when it releases, I''ll help promote it too."

    The straight men present might not detect the sarcasm in her words.

    But to Li Zhen, it sounded grating.

    However, she endured it and brushed her soft long hair back, the corners of her red lips curving up. "I''m not only good at acting. I''m working as a hand model now, and doing quite well."

    "Hand model?" Dong Wanwan covered her mouth andughed, nodding, "That''s good."

    Li Zhen: ......Her fists clenched, she wanted to punch someone!

 Chapter 30: Attention Is on My Sister-in-law.

    <h4>Chapter 30</h4>

    Li Zhen was angry but had to hold it in. Dong Wanwan was delighted to see this.

    Back in their university days, she had pursued Yu Sheng, but Yu Sheng had chosen Li Zhen instead.

    So she had turned around and pursued Zhou Chaowen, because he came from the wealthiest family in the entire university.

    Looking back now, she felt her choice had been the right one.

    She was now a budding starlet and a wealthy madam, while Li Zhen was just a small-time hand model. So what if she had married the campus heartthrob? How could a mere workerpare to Zhou Chaowen?

    Wan Zhe pulled Yu Sheng aside, and the three men went to chat and drink together.

    Li Zhen felt bored and yed on her phone by herself.

    Dong Wanwan, on the other hand, sent a message in a group chat with three people: "Guess who I''m with right now?"

    Xu Shan: "Some big celebrity?"

    Yi E''sang: "Don''t tell me it''s that young hunk you mentioned before?"

    Dong Wanwan nced at Li Zhen: "Li Zhen."

    This was their dormitory chat group from university.

    The three of them had always excluded Li Zhen from it, so she wasn''t in the group.

    Xu Shan: "What? How are you with her?"

    Dong Wanwan raised her eyebrows. She knew they would react strongly. "I heard from Chaowen that Yu Sheng invited him today."

    Yi E''sang: "The campus heartthrob? They''re still together?"

    Xu Shan: "So her husband asked your husband for help. How the tables have turned. Back in university, the campus heartthrob acted so arrogantly..."

    Yi E''sang: "Where do they work now?"

    This was exactly the question Dong Wanwan was waiting for. She immediately replied: "The campus heartthrob is a sales director at a jewelrypany, and Li Zhen is just a hand model."

    Xu Shan: "Haha,pared to you, they''re far behind."

    After reading this message, Dong Wanwan put down her phone, feeling better than ever.

    While chatting with the two men, Yu Sheng kept ncing over at Li Zhen.

    Zhou Chaowen poured Yu Sheng another drink and said, "Brother Sheng, this won''t do. You''re chatting with us but keep looking over at your wife. Drink up as punishment!"

    "Alright."

    Yu Sheng had already drunk quite a bit.

    He didn''t decline this time and downed the ss in one go.

    Wan Zhe teased, "Chaowen, you still don''t know Brother Sheng well. Back in university, he doted on his wife like this too. But she seems much quieter today than before."

    Yu Sheng swirled the ss and said, "I rarely bring her out with me these days, so she''s not used to it."

    "That''s why, Brother Sheng, you should bring your wife out with us more often," said Zhou Chaowen. He then brought out some dice and filled over ten sses with alcohol. "Wanwan, Sister-inw, stop ying on your phones ande y dice with us."

    Wan Zhe''s excitement rose. "With Wanwan and Sister-inw here, let''s y a simple game of guessing high or low. The loser has to either answer a truth or take a dare, or drink five sses."

    The guessing game was simple. They took turns guessing the number of urrences of a certain number that all their dice added up to. The actual number didn''t matter, just the frequency. For example, if the previous person said "four sixes," the next would say "five ones," and the person after would have to say "six threes."

    Wan Zhe handed out the dice and shakers.

    For the first round, Wan Zhe went first. "Three twos."

    Zhou Chaowen: "With Sister-inw here today, you''re going easy. I say five twos."

    Dong Wanwan looked at her dice. "Eight sixes."

    With Dong Wanwan calling out eight, Li Zhen was put in a tough spot. She steeled herself and said, "Nine fives."

    Li Zhen wasn''t in the mood to y games with Yu Sheng and the others. But herpetitive drive got the better of her, and she still cared about winning and losing. She had no confidence, clearly seeing that Wan Zhe and Zhou Chaowen had many twos, while Dong Wanwan had many sixes. Perhaps she was the only one with fives. She nced at Yu Sheng, who was next.

    If Yu Sheng went now, she would probably lose.

    But if he didn''t open his dice, he would lose himself.

    Yu Sheng''s long fingers tapped the shaker as he chose not to open it. "Ten ones," he said calmly.

    Wan Zheughed. "Brother Sheng, you''re intentionally losing to protect your wife. Given what we just called out, how could there possibly be ten ones?"

    "Then will you open your dice?" Yu Sheng asked lightly, his eyes ncing over.

    "Open!" Wan Zhe said boldly and spilled out his dice. "I don''t have a single one."

    Dong Wanwan: "Me neither."

    Li Zhen: "I have two ones."

    Zhou Chaowen grinned. "Then Brother Sheng has certainly lost. I only have two ones too."

    "You two still can''t keep your cool, just like in university," Yu Sheng joked. His usually cold face revealed a hint of a smile as his long fingers spilled out the dice.

    Six beautiful ones.

    A leopard roll.

    Exactly ten.

    Everyone''s eyes went wide...

    Wan Zhe knocked his forehead. "How could I forget Brother Sheng always dominates these games."

    They had all drunk quite a bit, and the atmosphere was great. No one minded winning or losing the fun games.

    "Truth or dare?" Zhou Chaowen asked Wan Zhe eagerly, pumped up.

    "Truth," Wan Zhe said casually.

    Zhou Chaowen took out a game app on his phone and selected Truth. It randomly generated an option that he read out loud:

    "Please name the person your brother has a secret crush on."

    Wan Zhe: "My only ''brothers'' are the four of us from our dorm, and I haven''t heard from Xue Jiao recently. One is Brother Sheng - he doesn''t have a secret crush but openly adores his wife. That just leaves you... Chaowen... So I''ll just say it."

    Li Zhen sat quietly on the side, watching them. Under the dazzling, shy lights of the bar, she alone exuded a pure aura, standing out from her surroundings.

    Zhou Chaowen''s eyes flicked to her for just 0.1 seconds before looking away again. "Nothing to say. It was so long ago... Don''t say it. You drink."

    Wan Zhe refused. "You just said it was so long ago yourself. And you don''t like her anymore either, so what''s wrong with saying it?"

    Dong Wanwan considerately said, "Dear, it''s fine to have liked someone else before. I won''t get mad."

    Zhou Chaowen started threatening, "Wan Zhe, the game''s just getting started. If you lose again... you''ll have to pick dare... Rememberst month''s dare?"

    Recalling the previous dare made goosebumps rise on Wan Zhe. "Alright, alright, I won''t say it. I''ll drink! You''d better pray you don''t lose."

    After a few more rounds, Wan Zhe had enough.

    He waved his hand tipsily. "Let''s stop. Brother Sheng, you never open your wife''s dice and you win every time. I''ve lost so many rounds..."

    Wan Zhe had suffered quite the losing streak sitting next to Yu Sheng.

    So he and Zhou Chaowen pulled Yu Sheng aside to drink together separately.

    Li Zhen hadn''t drunk any alcohol, just a lot of juice.

    She got up and asked a server where the restroom was, then headed over through the crowd. After washing her hands on her way back, Dong Wanwan blocked her path.

    "Li Zhen, we were dormmates for so many years but have barely spoken to each other in front of everyone today?" Dong Wanwan smiled gently.

    Her expression tantly said "I''m here to feel superior."

    Li Zhen curled her lip. "My memory''s not so great recently. Did I give you face in front of them just now?"

    "As if I need you to give me face? Li Zhen, look what you''ve be after graduation," Dong Wanwan''s smile instantly faded.

    Her virtue and propriety were just an act for her wealthy husband to see.

    Alone with Li Zhen, Dong Wanwan resumed her university attitude.

    "Where do you get your sense of superiority? Got a link? Share it with me too," Li Zhen didn''t really understand Dong Wanwan. Everyone was having fun, yet she insisted on spoiling things.

    Dong Wanwan''s expression froze for a second before smiling again. "Yes, my husband gives me the confidence for my sense of superiority. After all, I married into a wealthy family, while you..."

    Li Zhen: "Let me teach you something for free. Cow dung is cow dung. No matter how you cook it, it won''t be a meat bun."

    "You... Li Zhen, you''re just jealous of me, grapes are sour because you can''t reach them," Dong Wanwan hated most how Li Zhen always remained unruffled.

    Even back in university when everyone shunned Li Zhen, she had stillughed every day, even seeming the happiest.

    Li Zhen thought for a moment. "Yes, jealous. Jealous of the stered makeup on your face, jealous of your empty head, jealous of your awful acting..."

    "Pff..."

    A passing woman couldn''t help butugh. She nced at Dong Wanwan and whispered to herpanion, "Isn''t that woman really that Dong...something or other, the one with the awful acting..."

    Dong Wanwan was startled. Before she could get angry, she hurriedly put on her mask.

    Li Zhen was toozy to keep talking and wanted to leave.

    Dong Wanwan raised her hand to stop her. "Li Zhen, stand right there..."

    "A good dog won''t block the road!" Li Zhen waved her hand dismissively.

    p!

    Dong Wanwan''s watch fell to the ground, and the exquisite dial shattered into pieces, scattering the twelve diamond chips inside all over the floor.

    Dong Wanwan''s face changed dramatically. "Li Zhen! I spent 320,000 on that pink diamond watch!"

    Li Zhen: ......Oh no!

 Chapter 31: Pity the Thorns

    <h4>Chapter 31</h4>

    Dong Wanwan''s voice was shrill, "Li Zhen, you have to pay me back!"

    Three hundred and twenty thousand!

    That''s almost a year''s sry gone.

    Although Dong Wanwan blocked her first, Li Zhen was the one who pped her watch away in the end.

    Li Zhen''s mood instantly plummeted to rock bottom, but a proud woman never bows her head.

    Though her heart was bleeding, her expression was indifferent, "I''ll pay you back for the depreciation since you''ve worn this watch for some time."

    Dong Wanwan picked up the smashed watch. "Depreciation! Do you know I had this custom made? You can''t just buy this with money! 32 thousand, not a cent less!"

    "Pay back what?" Yu Sheng came over, worried that with so many people in the bar, her injured hand might get bumped into.

    "Brother Sheng..." Dong Wanwan instantly switched to a pitiful look, "Li Zhen smashed my watch."

    "How much?" Yu Sheng had quite a lot to drink tonight, his voice a touchzier than usual.

    Dong Wanwan raised her brows, "Not too expensive, just 320,000."

    Dong Wanwan nced at Yu Sheng''s wrist. His watch was in, probably just a few thousand.

    Hers was way too expensive to break!

    Perhaps even if Li Zhen and Yu Sheng''s sries for half a year werebined, it still wouldn''t amount to that much. If Yu Sheng knew he had to pay so much, he''d definitely be angry at Li Zhen.

    "Get Chaowen to send me his ountter." Yu Sheng said indifferently, then led Li Zhen away.

    Dong Wanwan was stunned.

    320,000 and he wasn''t mad at all? He didn''t even react?

    But upon further thought, men cared about face after all. He probably just didn''t want to re up in front of her. Who knows if they''d fight about it when they got back.

    -

    Yu Sheng led Li Zhen towards their booth.

    Li Zhen had her brows furrowed, clearly displeased.

    Yu Sheng nced at her. The alcohol made his words less harsh, instead gentler than usual. "Not even a few tens of thousands, and you''re unhappy already?"

    "Listen to yourself, 320,000 is almost my annual sry." Li Zhen pursed her lips.

    And she was the one paying, yet he had agreed on her behalf so breezily. She had wanted to haggle with Dong Wanwan some more.

    Yu Sheng said indifferently, "Didn''t I give you my sry card and bank card?"

    Implicitly telling her to use his cards.

    Li Zhen jerked her head up abruptly to look at him. "Huh? I didn''t return them to you?"

    When they married, Yu Sheng had passed her the property ownership certificates and bank cards.

    But Li Zhen had never used them before. Her own sry was decent enough for daily expenses, so she hadpletely forgotten about it. She didn''t wait for Yu Sheng to reply before realizing herself, "I think I didn''t. I must''ve taken them along with my luggage when I moved out. I''ll return them to you tomorrow."

    "Li Zhen..." Yu Sheng suddenly stopped short. Abruptly, a fire red in his chest. He grabbed her wrist, "Can''t you understand what I mean? I''m telling you to use my cards! Why do you have to split everything so clearly with me when ites to money?"

    "Are you really that drunk?" Li Zhen yanked her left hand back. "Have you forgotten we''re divorced already? Why would I use your cards?"

    Yu Sheng took a deep breath. "Alright, you remember clearly that we got our divorce certs alright!"

    When the two returned to their booth, Wan Zhe could tell with a nce that something was off. He asked Yu Sheng softly, "Bro Sheng, did you and sister-inw fight?"

    Yu Sheng downed a whole ss of liquor. His expression was indifferent. "She''s been spiteful with me recently."

    Wan Zheughed. "Bro Sheng, sister-inw has always had quite the temper. You used to indulge her a lot."

    "Just grinding down her temper for a bit. She''ll be fine after some time." Yu Sheng looked towards Li Zhen, sitting in the corner.

    Her brows and eyes were clear, her exquisite features free of any makeup. Sitting quietly amidst the chaotic, noisy bar, she was like the only blossoming lotus in ake.

    What a pity she had thorns.

    If you don''t trim the thorns, it won''t grow well.

    When they were dating, he could give in to her in everything. But many things changed after they married.

    "Bro Sheng..." Zhou Chaowen hesitated. "Sister-inw''s temper is part of who she is. If you suppress her temper..."

    She''d be unhappy right?

    Zhou Chaowen didn''t finish his sentence, unable to continue.

    He wasn''t in any position to say this.

    Bro Sheng had always been smarter than him. And all of them brothers knew how much Bro Sheng treasured Li Zhen. It wasn''t his ce to butt in.

    Yu Sheng said, "What is it?"

    "Nothing, Bro Sheng." Zhou Chaowen shook his head. "Come, let''s drink."

    Dong Wanwan came back from the washroom and snuggled into Zhou Chaowen''s embrace. "Chaowen, did you send the ount to Brother Yu yet?"

    Zhou Chaowen was puzzled. "What ount?"

    Dong Wanwan recounted what had happened.

    Yu Sheng and Li Zhen looked over at the same time. Caught up in their earlier argument, they had both forgotten about this matter.

    Zhou Chaowen frowned. "It''s just a watch, what''s there to pay for!"

    He had even wanted to gift Yu Sheng a car.

    How could he possibly let him pay for some trivial few hundred thousand watch?

    Li Zhen''s heart instantly tightened. Yes, yes, please say she doesn''t need to pay!

    "No, Chaowen, I have to pay back..." Yu Sheng lifted his chin, pointing in Li Zhen''s direction. "Give the ount to her. She''ll pay you guys back."

    Li Zhen: ......

    Li Zhen had the sudden urge to rush over and kill Yu Sheng!

    It was bad enough he didn''t stop her before she could bargain. Now someone was saying she didn''t need to pay, yet he was insisting she did!

    She and him weren''t ex-husband and ex-wife. They were mortal enemies!

    Zhou Chaowen gave a muddled assent, and could only send the ount details to Li Zhen.

    Dong Wanwan was delighted inwardly. They really did argue because of money.

    "You guys have fun. I''m leaving first." After receiving the ount, Li Zhen red fiercely at Yu Sheng before getting up. "You have fun too. I''m going back to transfer the money!"

    Yu Shengzily lifted his eyelids to look at her, his dark eyes icy cold. "Mm, remember to select instant transfer."

    Li Zhen: ...... Murder is illegal, I endure!

    -

    Li Zhen took a cab back to her dorm,pletely wilted like an eggnt frosted over.

    320,000!

    Could Yu Sheng be conspiring with Dong Wanwan to scam her!

    With her thoughts in turmoil, Li Zhen opened the door.

    The living room was brightly lit. Lu Yanming sat on the carpet flipping through aptop on the coffee table.

    Li Zhen lowered her head to change her shoes,pletely ignoring that there was someone else in the living room, and silently went into her bedroom.

    Lu Yanming closed theptop with a soft sigh.

    "Jerk! 320,000! With one sentence from you I''m wiped out!" Li Zhen took out her bank cards andid them out one by one. Then she opened her phone to check her remaining bnce. Adding up the amounts in each card, if she paid 320,000, she would only have 137,306 yuan left!

    Heavens, what tragedy was this!

    Li Zhen hugged a pillow and sat on the floor,pletely hopeless about life.

    "Come out for dinner." Lu Yanming stood at the doorway of her bedroom.

    "Mr. Lu?" Li Zhen looked up in surprise. "It''s almost ten, you haven''t eaten yet?"

    Lu Yanming had showered and changed into loungewear. His gaze was indifferent as it rested on her. "I was waiting for you. Can''t let the person who took you out not even give you a meal."

    Li Zhen''s nose instantly turned sore. She was extremely sensitive to anything rted to money now. "Mr. Lu, you take care of so many dinners for me, and never made me split the living costs. You''re too nice!"

    "Don''t give me any good person cards. I don''t need them."

    Li Zhen followed Lu Yanming to the living room. She kept her face drooped the entire time as she ate with only her left hand.

    Lu Yanming set down his chopsticks. "You sighed 32 times? What''s wrong?"

    "Mr. Lu..." Li Zhen looked up, still biting on her chopsticks. "Today I broke the watch of my former roommate whom I really disliked. It was a pink diamond watch. I have to pay back 320,000 for it."

    She felt truly upset inside, and wanted to vent to someone.

    "After paying 320,000, I''ll be broke." Li Zhen heaved yet another long sigh, her long darkshes drooping sadly. "Yet I was too proud, and acted all generous saying I would pay back after breaking it..."

    Lu Yanming: "320,000?"

    The sry of a deputy manager at MacroOcean definitely wasn''t low. Li Zhen thought he would say something simr to Yu Sheng, that it wasn''t a huge sum and not to take it so seriously.

    But Lu Yanming shook his head. "Since it''s someone you dislike, don''t pay a cent."

    Li Zhen''s heart warmed for a moment, but the light in her eyes dimmed again. "I can''t not pay. I really did break it."

    Lu Yanming: "What did the pink diamond look like?"

    Li Zhen took out the photo she had snapped then to show Lu Yanming.

    Lu Yanming nced at it briefly twice. "It''s fake."

    "Fake?" Li Zhen didn''t know much about jewelry, but having seen so many, she could usually still tell real from fake. This pink diamond didn''t look fake!

    "The diamond cutting is so good that the disadvantage of poor color dispersion can be seen at a nce. The refractive index ofb-grown diamonds is smaller and very easy to distinguish," Lu Yanming thought for a moment, and then added, "However, the craftsmanship of the strap and dial is not bad, the actual value is about fifty thousand yuan."

    Fifty thousand, so she could save two hundred and seventy thousand!

    Her life was alive again!

    "Mr. Lu! You are my benefactor!" Li Zhen''s mood instantly became beautiful and radiant, calcting, "I''ll find someone knowledgeable to go with me to see her, in case she doesn''t recognize me."

    Lu Yanming''s light pupils quietly gazed at her cheerful, and the corners of his mouth also raised arcs, "You make an appointment with that person to meet, and I will talk to her."

    -

    The next morning, Dong Wanwan drove her sports car and stopped by the coffee shop.

    She touched up her makeup with lipstick, making sure her makeup was perfect enough, put on sunsses that could cover most of her face, before slowly getting out of the car.

    In the coffee shop, she saw Li Zhen in the corner, her one hand bandaged on her chest was too conspicuous, she could find it in one second.

    Dong Wanwan''s gaze turned, and her eyes lit up for a moment.

    Next to Li Zhen was a man wearing gold-rimmed sses, with high cheekbones and an elegant temperament, hundreds of times more handsome than the little fresh meat she had spent a lot of money to sleep withst time.

 Chapter 32: Ill-gotten Gains

    <h4>Chapter 32</h4>

    Li Zhen waved at her from the corner, "Over here."

    Dong Wanwan lifted her chin and swayed over to sit down gracefully, "Li Zhen, you didn''t transfer thepensation money to mest night. Did you ask me out today nning to welsh on it?"

    Li Zhen didn''t say anything. Lu Yanming spoke up, "Let''s talk about the value of the watch first, then discusspensation."

    The man''s voice was too attractive, maic and low. Dong Wanwan reined in her temper and raised her brows, "Li Zhen, did you specially invite awyer? It seems like this mere 32,000 yuan is quite a lot to you. Don''t want to pay up?"

    Li Zhen pretended not to hear and lowered her head to drink coffee.

    Lu Yanming''s long fingers tapped the tabletop gently. He smiled gently with a cultivated demeanor, "If it''s worth that much, we''llpensate."

    Dong Wanwan heard something amiss and frowned, "What do you mean?"

    Lu Yanming: "May I trouble you to show me the watch you smashed yesterday?"

    Dong Wanwan brought it along, she wasn''t afraid of them looking either. She passed the box containing the watch over.

    Lu Yanming opened the box and took out a pink diamond, holding it in his hand and feeling it, "Natural diamonds have very strong oil affinity. There is a trace amount of sebum on human skin and touching will reduce the surface brightness of a natural diamond. But unfortunately, your pink diamond is still as bright as new."

    Dong Wanwan''s expression changed slightly, "What do you mean?"

    Lu Yanming didn''t answer. His tone was neither rushed nor slow as he continued, "Natural diamonds conduct heat well. When touched by a hand, they will quickly conduct the temperature from the hand, so they will feel icy cold. But clearly, the thermal conductivity of this pink diamond isn''t good."

    Dong Wanwan was shocked to her core.

    Was this man saying the pink diamond on her watch was fake?

    How was that possible?

    "What nonsense are you spouting! Do you understand diamonds?" Dong Wanwan grabbed the box from the man''s hand in disbelief.

    Li Zhen ridiculed inwardly, he''s the deputy head of a jewelry conglomerate, of course he understands!

    Dong Wanwan finally realized these people had malicious intent. "Stop saying all that, just pay up!"

    Lu Yanming said, "We can pay up too, but we need an appraisal certificate from an authoritative organization. Although in my opinion, this watch is worth tens of thousands at most."

    The man opposite didn''t have any extra expression, but he faintly exuded invisible pressure. His words made people subconsciously believe them.

    Dong Wanwan started hesitating. What if the pink diamond really was fake...

    Her tone weakened a bit, "Humph, I''ll go get it tested right now."

    Li Zhen instantly felt relieved.

    As long as Dong Wanwan agreed to test it, she would know it was fake. Naturally she wouldn''t ask her topensate 32,000 yuan.

    At most she''d pay 50,000 yuan, which she could ept.

    Li Zhen felt gratified inside, Lu Yanming looked very agreeable to her eyes.

    Just as Li Zhen was getting ready to finish up and leave, Lu Yanming spoke again, "Alright, while you''re gone testing, we might as well go to the police station."

    Dong Wanwan halted in her steps.

    Lu Yanming''s gold rimmed sses reflected a cold glint at the edges. "To report you for using a fake diamond to extort an exorbitant sum."

    Lu Yanming''s words had a tremendous influential power. The two women were equally shocked.

    Li Zhen: ...As expected of you!

    Dong Wanwan: ...This man is vicious!

    Dong Wanwan said incredulously, "Even if it''s a fake diamond, I''m the victim too..."

    Lu Yanming said, "It''s your word against mine. You extorting is real, what you did is evidence for conviction."

    Dong Wanwan panicked. She had just gained some fame and money from Zhou Chao Wen. She absolutely couldn''t get into any trouble, if Li Zhen reported her to the police, reporters would surely sensationalize it.

    "Forget it, I can''t be bothered to tangle with you two..." She grit her teeth, her gaze full of hatred, "How much did you say?"

    Lu Yanming said, "Thirty thousand."

    Li Zhen nced at him. Didn''t he say it was worth 50,000?

    He helped save her another 20,000.

    Dong Wanwan couldn''t be bothered to say more. She took out her phone''s QR code. "Transfer it to me now."

    As soon as she got the money, she was going to find the person who tricked her into buying that watch!

    How dare he fool her!

    Li Zhen took out her phone. Joy that couldn''t be concealed shone from her eyes. She hadn''t expected to be able to settle it for just 30,000 in the end.

    Just as she took out her phone, Lu Yanming tapped open her QR code for receiving payments.

    He looked at Dong Wanwan, "It seems you didn''t understand me. You''re paying us 30,000 yuan for emotional damages from your extortion."

    Li Zhen froze. Her mouth hung open wide enough to fit an egg.

    "You... you..." Dong Wanwan was clearly dumbstruck. Her hand holding the phone shook from anger. "Li Zhen, after you broke my watch, I have to pay you 30,000 yuan?"

    Li Zhen: ...I didn''t expect this either!

    "Unwilling? Then forget it. I''ll go to the police station first..." Lu Yanming''s tone was very mild.

    Dong Wanwan: "Wait... I''ll pay!"

    After Dong Wanwan paid, she walked out of the cafe still in a dazed state.

    She didn''t understand, when she first walked in, it was Li Zhen who owed her 32,000 yuan. Yet when she left, she was the one who gave Li Zhen 30,000 yuan!

    After Dong Wanwan left, undisguised adoration filled Li Zhen''s gaze. "Boss Lu, you''re amazing!"

    This gaze of adoration gratified Lu Yanming greatly.

    He got up, draping his suit jacket over his arm. His smile was deep. "Let''s go, you only took half a day off today."

    -

    In the past, some colleagues worked overtime when others got off work early, and the early leavers felt a bit embarrassed.

    Ever since overtime started getting deducted from performance, everyone uniformly got off work right at 6 pm. If anyone stayedte by even a minute, they''d get mocked by colleagues for dragging them down.

    When it was time to get off work, after calling Qiao Yi to join them, Zhang Xiya and the others waited together for the elevator to go downstairs.

    "We''ve been going out to eat too often these days. We just went out to eat together a few days ago, and we''re going again today." Qiao Yi touched her lower back, "I''m going to gain weight again today."

    Since Qiao Yi gained weight from medication, she was especially concerned about it.

    Zhang Xiyaughed and lightly bumped her shoulder, "Our Qiao Yi is as beautiful as a flower, neither fat nor thin can conceal your charm."

    Zhang Xiya spoke dramatically, making not just Qiao Yiugh, but Li Zhen and Meng Yuanjieughed along too.

    The elevator arrived at their floor. Seeing Lu Yanming standing among the crowd inside, theughing group were taken aback for a moment. They exchanged looks with each other before quickly entering.

    "Boss Lu." The few greeted respectfully in unison after entering.

    "Mm." Lu Yanming nodded.

    The enclosed space made them feel ill at ease with a superior present.

    In the spacious elevator, colleagues who were chatting also kept their voices very soft.

    Zhang Xiya clung familiarly to Li Zhen''s arm. Although excited, she also lowered her voice, "Where should we go eatter?"

    Meng Yuanjie suggested, "Li Zhen said this unjust fortune was a huge sum. Naturally we should pick a more expensive ce."

    Zhang Xiya nodded fervently, "Yes, yes, yes."

    Li Zhen''s back stiffened abruptly.

    It was as if a substantial gaze hadnded on her.

    She sneakily nced back and surely met Lu Yanming''s eyes.

    She was done for. He helped her get money, yet she called it unjust gains. He must be unhappy.

    "We''ve arrived." Everyone exited the elevator on the first floor.

    Li Zhen had just put one foot out when arge hand pulled her back... by the waistband of her skater skirt.

    She was pulled back a step. Before her eyes, the elevator door closed shut.

    Inside the descending elevator to basement level 1, there was only her and Lu Yanming left.

    She turned back and smiled somewhat awkwardly, "Boss Lu, something the matter?"

    -

    After walking two steps from the elevator, Qiao Yi felt something was off. She looked back, "Ah, where''s Li Zhen? She didn''te out of the elevator?"

    Before she could think further, she saw Yu Sheng walking towards them.

    Thepany''s employees were rather intimidated by Yu Sheng. Although they saw Yu Sheng''s attitude towards Li Zhen at the hospital that day, at heart they were still afraid of him.

    When they brushed past Yu Sheng, Zhang Xiya and the others greeted respectfully like before, "Boss Yu."

    Yu Sheng''s footsteps paused slightly as his gaze swept over the three people. He said lightly, "Li Zhen hasn''t gotten off work yet?"

    Not expecting the aloof Yu Sheng to take the initiative to speak to them, Zhang Xiya hurriedly replied, "She probably got off on the wrong floor, she''ll be out a bitter."

    Yu Sheng nodded and stepped forward to leave.

    Mustering his courage, Meng Yuanjie asked, "Boss Yu, Li Zhen is having dinner with uster. Would you like to join us too?"

    Yu Sheng turned his head and nced at him.

    Meng Yuanjie smiled awkwardly, "I forgot, President Yu, you are usually quite busy..."

    "I still have something to go back to the office to deal with, probably takes half an hour." Yu Sheng raised his hand and looked at his watch. He had just returned from meeting with Zhou Chaowen in the afternoon to finalize the details of the documentary homepage video ad, and still had some urgent matters to handle.

    Meng Yuanjie thought he was going to refuse.

    But Yu Sheng added: "You guys go ahead and eat first, I''lle over after I''m done."

    After saying that, he walked towards the elevator hall.

    Qiao Yi was stunned, "President Yu is going to eat with us?"

    "That''s exactly what he meant." Zhang Xiya kicked Meng Yuanjie, "Why did you nicely ask President Yu to eat with us? President Yu is so intimidating, eating with him, I won''t enjoy the food."

    Meng Yuanjie felt extremely wronged, "I just asked, who would''ve thought President Yu would actually agree."

    He slowly walked towards the elevator to the -1 floor.

    Lu Yanming pulled Li Zhen by the waist closer to him, looking down at her slightly, "Ill-gotten gains? Is that how you define this 30,000?"

    Li Zhen quickly denied, urgently shifting the me, "President Lu, they were the ones who said that, it has nothing to do with me."

    "Them? You seem to treat them pretty well. It was tiring for them to negotiate for you, and treat you to meals, yet I didn''t get a share." Lu Yanming released her and smoothed out the slightly rumpled cuffs from the pull.

    Li Zhen heard a hint of reproach and immediately said: "President Lu, I''ll treat you to dinner tomorrow?"

    The elevator had arrived at the -1 floor, Lu Yanming nced at her, his long legs stepped out, "No time like the present."

    "You mean today? Today doesn''t work, I have ns with colleagues." Li Zhen followed.

    Lu Yanming stopped and turned to look at her, his light eyes gazed at her deeply, "You can go out with others every day after work, so why can''t you with me?"

    His sigh was barely audible, "Am I that unpresentable? Li Zhen."

 Chapter 33: The dogs at the supermarket next door donâ€™t Believe it.

    <h4>Chapter 33</h4>

    Li Zhen was bewildered by Lu Yanming¡¯s words.

    In her life, he was someone to avoid!

    They didn¡¯t interact at work. If they appeared together, people would definitely specte. If anyone found out they had gotten a marriage certificate together...

    Lu Yanming must also understand the reasoning behind this. Li Zhen euphemistically said, ¡°Mr. Lu, I¡¯m having dinner with colleagues. If we go together, it will definitely seem strange and awkward.¡±

    Lu Yanming walked to the Maybach and opened the passenger door, making a gentlemanly gesture for her to get in. ¡°Come up with a suitable excuse and it won¡¯t seem strange.¡±

    Lu Yanming said, ¡°Let them see more, and they¡¯ll get used to it.¡±

    Li Zhen: ...You insist on going, don¡¯t you?

    Zhang Xiya and the others finally chose a Thai hot pot restaurant.

    Zhang Xiya took a sip of her drink. ¡°Little Zhen Zhen, what¡¯s going on with you today? You forgot to get off on your floor and you''ve been so slow getting here.¡±

    Qiao Yi looked at the group chat with four people. ¡°She said a colleague is dropping her off and wants to eat with us too. That colleague is probably driving slowly.¡±

    ¡°Well, we¡¯re going to have a lively time today. Manager Yu isingter too...¡± Meng Yuanjie said, then suddenly stopped. ¡°Mr....Mr. Lu?¡±

    ¡°What Mr. Lu?¡± Zhang Xiya asked in confusion.

    She and Qiao Yi followed Meng Yuanjie¡¯s gaze.

    The three of them widened their eyes almost simultaneously, staring at the entrance in disbelief: Li Zhen was with Mr. Lu?

    Lu Yanming was wearing a well-fitted, broad suit. His tall, sturdy figure had wide shoulders and a narrow waist. His steady strides made him look like a top male model on a runway.

    Li Zhen followed one step behind Lu Yanming, head lowered, looking resentful and wronged.

    When the two of them got close, the other three stiffened and stood up in unison. ¡°Mr. Lu!¡±

    ¡°Everyone sit down.¡±

    Lu Yanming pulled out Li Zhen¡¯s chair first. After she sat down, he draped his suit jacket over the chair back and sat down. ¡°I happened to run into Li Zhen after work. I didn¡¯t know what I wanted to eat tonight either, so I came to mooch a meal. You don¡¯t mind, do you?¡±

    The three of them shook their heads furiously. ¡°We don¡¯t mind, we don¡¯t mind.¡±

    They didn¡¯t mind, but they were shocked!

    Just a second ago the aloof deputy CEO in the elevator, and the next second he was sitting with them eating hot pot?

    How did the world suddenly be so surreal!

    The hot pot broth bubbled as the ingredients tumbled around.

    Zhang Xiya frantically typed in the group chat: [@Li Zhen, when did you start a secret love affair with Mr. Lu! Tell us, little Zhen Zhen, what kind of witchcraft did you learn recently to bewitch people!]

    Zhang Xiya: [Quick! Teach me!]

    Li Zhen nced at theposed man beside her and secretly typed with one hand. Typing with just her left hand was very slow. [Ran into him, mooching food, not close.]

    Meng Yuanjie: [What you mean is: you just happened to run into him and Mr. Lu is only tagging along for a meal. You two aren¡¯t close.]

    Li Zhen: [.]

    Meng Yuanjie: [Did you see there¡¯s a dog outside the little supermarket next door? Try exining it to the dog like that and see if it believes you.]

    Li Zhen sent a sticker of a little dog holding a knife and threw it in the group chat.

    She red at Lu Yanming resentfully. She had just said any normal person wouldn¡¯t believe her story about randomly eating together when they don''t interact at work.

    But the three of them wouldn¡¯t gossip about it to others. Let them specte all they want.

    Li Zhen quickly put her phone away and resigned herself to her fate.

    Li Zhen had thought it would be awkward to eat with Mr. Lu there, but the four of them chatted very happily. On the contrary, Lu Yanming was silent and low-key, busy cooking food for them and pouring drinks.

    The atmosphere was unexpectedly harmonious.

    Meng Yuanjie suddenly realized Mr. Lu had been busy and quickly called the server over to add more broth to the pot.

    The server was a young girl, at the age when a maiden is full of romantic feelings. Seeing the well-dressed and refined Lu Yanming, she was nervous and her hand shook, spilling some of the broth. A few drops just happened tond on the back of Li Zhen¡¯s left hand.

    ¡°Ow!¡± Li Zhen sucked in a breath.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m so sorry!¡± The server apologized profusely.

    ¡°You''re too careless.¡± Zhang Xiya couldn¡¯t help but scold the server.

    Qiao Yi hurriedly took a napkin and wiped Li Zhen¡¯s hand dry.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Li Zhen looked down. Her hand was just a little red but there was no real problem. ¡°Qiao Yi, can you apply some hand cream for me?¡±

    Li Zhen took some hand cream out of her bag.

    But it wasn¡¯t Qiao Yi who took the cream. It was Lu Yanming.

    Lu Yanming picked up the hand cream, twisted open the cap, and said, ¡°Let me do it.¡±

    Qiao Yi was left holding nothing. She froze for a second before resuming normalcy and sitting down. Even the usually gossip-averse Qiao Yi couldn¡¯t help but nce at Lu Yanming.

    Zhang Xiya and Meng Yuanjie hurriedly lowered their heads to pretend they were eating, but their eyes were actually glued on Lu Yanming.

    A male superior helping a female subordinate apply hand cream¡ªdid this look like they weren¡¯t close?

    Even the dog next door wouldn¡¯t believe it.

    But you had to admit, a high-level executive and a low-level employee, it was kind of exciting to think about!

    ¡°No need, Mr. Lu.¡± Li Zhen declined. She saw from the corner of her eye how obvious the other three looked, pretending to eat but actually ogling avidly.

    Wasn¡¯t Lu Yanming usually quite clever? Couldn¡¯t he see?

    Lu Yanming took her hand and ced it in his palm. ¡°What, can¡¯t rx?¡±

    Li Zhen¡¯s mind buzzed.

    She suddenly recalled two nights ago when he had forcefully kissed her, kissing her until her whole body went soft. Only then did hezily say, ¡°More rxed now? Will you let me bathe you now?¡±

    Li Zhen had no doubt that if she refused now, he would kiss her right in front of them, then arrogantly and implicitly ask her, ¡°How about now, more rxed?¡±

    ¡°Rxed, rxed!¡± Li Zhen steeled herself, ready to make a heroic sacrifice. ¡°Go ahead and apply it!¡±

    Lu Yanming¡¯s cold brows lifted faintly, revealing a shallow smile.

    His hand bones were long and straight. He squeezed out some cream and rubbed it on the fair and delicate back of her hand.

    Applying just a bit of force, Lu Yanming easily spread the cream over her hand.

    Their skin was pressed tightly together.

    His fingers were scalding hot, slick with the viscous liquid, sliding and melding into her skin.

    Li Zhen¡¯s hand curled slightly and her ear tips suddenly burned red-hot.

    Zhang Xiya: ......

    Meng Yuanjie: ......

    Qiao Yi: ......

    This hand cream application was really...

    Zhang Xiya typed solemnly in their group of three: [I bet $100 that little Zhen Zhen is dating Mr. Lu.]

    Qiao Yi: [Don¡¯t forget Manager Yu at the hospital that day... Mr. Lu is probably pursuing her.]

    Meng Yuanjie: [Then I stand with Manager Yu. We¡¯re familiar with Manager Yu. If Li Zhen is really dating someone, it¡¯s better if she¡¯s with Manager Yu.]

    Zhang Xiya: [Manager Yu is so cold and frosty, always stony-faced. Mr. Lu is better, gentle and refined, a humble gentleman.]

    Qiao Yi: [Wait...]

    Qiao Yi''s eyes shed: [Did we forget something...]

    The three of them suddenly looked up and exchanged startled nces.

    Oh no!

    Manager Yu wasing too!

    Qiao Yi hurriedly messaged Li Zhen: [I have bad news for you.]

    Li Zhen pressed a symbol with her left hand.

    Li Zhen: [?]

    Qiao Yi: [Another colleague ising soon. Based on the timing, they should be here any minute.]

    Li Zhen: [!]

    Other than these three here, Li Zhen didn''t feel assured about anyone seeing her with Lu Yanming.

    Li Zhen suddenly stood up, her beautiful face calm, hiding that trace of nervousness. ¡°Mr. Lu, I¡¯m done eating. Let¡¯s go.¡±

    Lu Yanming looked up at her, his gaze probing.

    The other three didn¡¯t dare meet Lu Yanming¡¯s eyes.

    Li Zhen forced a smile. ¡°Let¡¯s go, Mr. Lu.¡±

    After pondering for two seconds, Lu Yanming got up and draped his suit jacket over his arm. ¡°I¡¯ll head out first then. Let¡¯s all get together again when there¡¯s a chance.¡±

    ¡°Alright, Mr. Lu.¡± The three of them chorused.

    They were all thinking¡ªwas there really a chance they would get together with the CEO again in the future?

    Mr. Lu was treating them like family now?

    Li Zhen hurried out without paying.

    Lu Yanming went to settle the bill before exiting. By now Li Zhen was already standing by the Maybach, lowering her head to look at her phone. Her soft hair fluttered gently in the evening breeze.

    He lifted his head slightly. The fiery red sunset was falling inch by inch from the treetops. He could hear a street vendor hawking his wares nearby. Commuters walking home after work rushed by.

    And his wife was waiting for him by the car so they could go home together.

    In this moment, Lu Yanming had the illusion that he and Li Zhen had truly be husband and wife. He was openly apanying her, meeting her friends, and taking part in her life.

    This illusion made his heart pound powerfully.

    Li Zhen looked at her phone, extremely nervous.

    Zhang Xiya was rushing her in their group chat: [Did you two leave yet? Don''t get seen.]

    Li Zhen poked at her phone with her left hand: [Not y......]

    She was typing when a tall shadow suddenly approached.

    Hot, moist lips instantly pressed against hers, clinging stickily.

    Li Zhen gasped slightly, her breath uneven as she recoiled back half a step, leaning against the door of the Maserati.

    Lu Yanming followed closely, pressing her between himself and the car door at the bustling restaurant entrance.

    The soft golden glow of the setting sun washed over them, nketing them in a thin veil. The world seemed to pause, leaving only the thudding of their hearts.

    Lu Yanming thought, kissing the one you love in the sunlight is so sweet.

 Chapter 34: Large Golden Retriever with High appearance Level

    <h4>Chapter 34</h4>

    Lu Yanming raised his hand and soothingly massaged her fair and delicate nape, his tentative gentle kisses on her lips gradually deepening.

    Li Zhen pushed him away, her red lips slightly swollen, her breathpletely disordered, "Chairman Lu, we''re in broad daylight..."

    "If you want me, then have me. Why can''t I kiss you when I want to?" Lu Yanming interrupted her words. His fingers moved from massaging her nape to tangling in her hair. "Aren''t you being a bit too overbearing with these cooperation rules of yours?"

    Li Zhen was rendered speechless by him for a couple seconds before she reacted, "But I''m at home, and this is..."

    She didn''t even dare say it - this was right outside the cafe entrance!

    "Then let''s go home now?" Lu Yanming withdrew his hand.

    Why did it feel like a wolf impatiently herding amb into its den?

    Li Zhen held her phone like a well-behaved student being punished to stand, at aplete loss for what to do. "But, my hand is still injured..."

    She wanted to get pregnant soon too. But with the way he was always vigorous and passionate, wouldn''t her hands be ruined!

    "I know." Lu Yanming''s voice carried a hint ofughter. "It''s not like I''m you, not that hungry."

    Li Zhen''s face instantly turned red. Her image in Lu Yanming''s eyes waspletely ruined.

    She wasn''t hungry! She just wanted to have a child!

    Lu Yanming gently kissed her slightly swollen lips, his somewhat rough thumb wiping away the glistening moisture at the corner of her lips. "It''s only 6:30, still early. Want to go shopping at the supermarket?"

    Wasn''t this change of topic too abrupt?

    Li Zhen looked up at him, gazing at him with eyes that had been kissed wet, "Go to the supermarket?"

    Lu Yanming couldn''t stand the way she looked at him like this, too much like she was seeking a kiss.

    He calmly averted his eyes, unlocking the car. His voice was slightly hoarse, "The faucet at home is a little loose, I''m going to buy a tool kit."

    "Chairman Lu, I didn''t know you could fix little things like this." Li Zhen got in the car.

    "Since you don''t know how, of course I have to know."

    "Alright..."

    -

    Yu Sheng parked the car steadily. From the corner of his eye, he seemed to see a familiar Maybach passing by the car.

    He didn''t think much of it and got out of the car, going straight into the restaurant. With a sweep of his eyes, he walked towards Zhang Xiya and the others.

    Meng Yuanjie''s back stiffened. "President Yu, Li Zhen had somethinge up and left first."

    Yu Sheng''s movements paused, his expression unchanged.

    He took out a medicinal cream. "This works very well for wound recovery. Help me give it to her, don''t say it''s from me, thanks."

    He ced the cream in front of Meng Yuanjie and turned to leave.

    Zhang Xiya was already stunned speechless. "President Yu is so good to little Zhen Zhen, he''s not avoiding us at all!"

    Qiao Yi murmured, "Ever since that day at the hospital, President Yu hasn''t tried to hide anything from us."

    After leaving the restaurant, Yu Sheng received a message on his phone.

    Li Yinnan: [I heard Zhen''er is injured? We''reing over tonight to see her.]

    Li Zhen had already angrily moved out, not to mention her injury wasn''t serious. Yu Sheng instinctively wanted to reject Li Yinnan.

    But in an instant, he changed his mind: [Alright, Dad.]

    After replying to Li Yinnan, he sent Li Zhen a message and gave instructions to the housekeeper at home to prepare. Having done all this, Yu Sheng finally got in the car and drove towards Jinyu Gardens.

    At the supermarket, Lu Yanming picked out a tool kit and ced it in the shopping cart.

    With Lu Yanming''s height and long legs, the shopping cart that seemed clumsy in other people''s hands rolled along just right for him.

    As the two strolled along, Li Zhen nced at him from the side and couldn''t help butugh softly. "Chairman Lu, you wearing a suit and tie shopping at the supermarket really doesn''t match."

    "Should I wear slippers like them to match then?" Lu Yanming leisurely looked towards an elderly couple nearby.

    "That''s not what I meant, Chairman Lu." Li Zhen gave a perfunctory reply. She tried to reach for a shower gel on the shelf, but was too short to reach even on her tiptoes.

    She raised her hand up. Her shirt was pulled taut, the supple curve of her back like a butterfly spreading its wings. The tight waistline of her wrap skirt cinched her slender waist even more, vaguely exuding a precarious fragility.

    Lu Yanming''s breathing deepened slightly. He walked over and stood right behind her, reaching up to grab the shower gel for her.

    His sturdy body was pressed tightly against her slender back, with only a thinyer of fabric separating them. Both of them could easily sense the temperature and feel of each other''s skin.

    In that moment, he felt her freeze almost imperceptibly.

    Li Zhen was scorched by the heat behind her.

    She thought about a few days ago, when Lu Yanming had also pinned her against the wall in this position...

    Lu Yanming took a step back, pulling away. He ced the shower gel in her hand. "Is this the one?"

    Li Zhen turned around, the tips of her ears tinged red. She nodded, "Yes."

    Lu Yanming lowered his head to look at her. "Why are your ears red again?"

    She ced the shower gel in the cart, pretending to be calm and unconcerned. "It''s a little hot."

    "I thought it was because I made you ufortable just now." Lu Yanming pushed the cart, following behind Li Zhen who had quickened her pace. "But then I figured, that can''t be right. You seem to quite like this position at home."

    Li Zhen was so shocked she turned to look at him, hurriedly covering his lips. She lowered her voice, "Chairman Lu! Keep it down!"

    Lu Yanming grasped her wrist and pulled it away, holding her hand in his palm. "You''re always blushing over nothing, imagining weird things in your head."

    Li Zhen retracted her hand, her ear tips even redder. "I''m not imagining anything... Chairman Lu, it takes one to know one."

    "Alright." Lu Yanmingughingly nodded.

    His easygoing concession was full of indulgence, as if he was generously no longer quibbling with a child.

    Li Zhen was defeated by his meaningfulugh. Feeling somewhat angry, it was clearly him who was either kissing her at every turn or standing very close to her. How could anyone not easily blush?

    Li Zhen''s phone received a new message. She opened it to see it was from Yu Sheng.

    Seeing the message, Li Zhen''s movements stalled.

    When she lived with Yu Sheng before, she had never let Li Yinnan and the otherse to Jinyu Gardens. Now that she was sick, Li Yinnan was eager to find an excuse toe over, and Yu Sheng had probably already agreed. If she refused now, Li Yinnan would be suspicious. She had to go back.

    Lu Yanming was looking at the things on the shelves.

    Li Zhen moved a little closer. "Chairman Lu, something came up, I have to go first."

    Lu Yanming retracted his gaze from the shelves and lifted his eyelids to look at her inly, but didn''t say anything.

    He seemed a little upset.

    She suddenly felt that Lu Yanming was quite clingy.

    Like a 24 hour attention-needing, high spec golden retriever: good at taking care of the household, highly capable, intelligent, and even tempered, just too clingy.

    She was only a tool wife to deal with his family, yet he was already so clingy.

    In the future, wouldn''t his actual wife be his inseparable essory?

    "Chairman Lu." Li Zhen decided to humor him. "I have something urgent, I''lle back as soon as I can."

    She assumed Lu Yanming would ask for details, but unexpectedly he just nodded. "Alright, I''ll take you there."

    -

    Li Zhen didn''t let Lu Yanming take her.

    She took a taxi to Jinyu Gardens.

    Seeing her get out of the taxi, the security guard at the entrance immediately came over to greet her. "Mrs. Yu, you''re back from your business trip?"

    Jinyu Gardens was a famous luxury vi district in the south of Jincheng City, with eachkeside vi an independent building worth nearly 30 million yuan.

    Here, every security guard knew all the homeowners.

    This security guard hadn''t seen Li Zhen for several days and assumed she had been away on a business trip.

    Li Zhen opened her mouth, about to exin she was no longer Mrs. Yu, but then considered that Li Yinnan might stille over in the future without knowing about the divorce. It was better to say little about her getting divorced before getting pregnant.

    In the end, Li Zhen just nodded at the security guard and headed inside.

    She only found out about the existence of this vi on her actual wedding day.

    That night after work, Yu Sheng had brought her here and given her the property deed to the vi along with a few of his bank cards.

    She had been very surprised that he could afford such an expensive vi.

    At the time, Yu Sheng simply said, "As long as you like it, that''s good. There''s quite a bit of money in the cards, feel free to use it."

    Li Zhen knew many men would give their wives a supplementary card with spending limits. She hadn''t expected Yu Sheng to hand over all his assets to her.

    Li Zhen had never used Yu Sheng''s cards before, and even now, she didn''t know how much money was actually in Yu Sheng''s cards.

    Li Zhen had pursued Yu Sheng for two years in college, and they had only gotten together in their third year. After working together at HongHai Corporation for two years after graduating, they finally got married.

    Only on that night did Li Zhen realize how little she actually knew about the man she had dated for years. She had originally wanted to ask more questions, but after Yu Sheng gave her the cards, he had been called back by the sales director at the time to work overtime.

    It wasn''t until a few days after getting married when Li Yinnan forced her to bring Yu Sheng back to the Li family that Li Zhen understood Yu Sheng''s identity and how he could afford this vi.

    The wrought iron gates in front of the vi slowly opened.

    Wu Ma came out to greet her. "Mistress, you''re back."

    Hearing "Mistress" made Li Zhen pause in surprise.

    Yu Sheng hadn''t told Wu Ma about the divorce?

 Chapter 35: Take It Back

    <h4>Chapter 35</h4>

    "Madam, Director Yu and the others have arrived. Chairman Yu is chatting with them by theke in the backyard," said Wu Ma as she apanied Li Zhen inside.

    As they passed through the grand hallway, Li Zhen could clearly hear the sounds of the chefs preparing food in the kitchen.

    "Madam, the chefs are from a five-star hotel today. The menu focuses on Sichuan cuisine with some Cantonese dishes," Wu Ma said.

    Li Zhen: "Wu Ma, I''ll leave the arrangements to you."

    Wu Ma had served the Yu family all her life. After Yu Sheng married and moved out of the Yu residence, she followed him to Jinlu Gardens and had proven herself capable and reliable over the years.

    With a smile, Wu Ma said, "Chairman Yu said this is the first time your family is visiting, so we must be extra diligent in our preparations."

    Li Zhen just smiled without furtherment. The two proceeded to the backyard.

    The vi''s backyard connected directly to thekeside.

    Li Yinnan, Li Yanran, and Old Master Li were chatting with Yu Sheng, who was keeping thempany by theke.

    Yu Sheng appeared rxed and amiable,cking his usual cold demeanor at thepany. He seemed like a warm and hospitable host.

    Li Zhen sat down next to Old Master Li. "Grandpa, with your poor legs, why did youe too?"

    "I was worried about you!" Old Master Li looked her up and down, his gaze settling on her bandaged hand, his brows furrowing with distress. "How can you still be so reckless even though you''re grown up now?"

    Li Zhen pouted. "It was just an ident."

    Li Yinnan spoke up in a steady tone, but he didn''t ask about her injury. "You came backter than Yu Sheng. As his wife, aren''t you being inconsiderate?"

    Li Zhen''s brows knitted slightly. Just as she was about to speak, Yu Sheng leisurely interjected, "Dad, Zhen has her own matters to attend to."

    Yu Sheng''s words were far more effective than ten sentences from her.

    Sure enough, Li Yinnan didn''t say any more. Changing the subject, he said, "Little Yu, you must be very busy with worktely. You and Zhen have been married a year. It''s time to think about having children."

    Yu Sheng nced at Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen''s back stiffened instantly.

    Was Li Yinnan here because he felt she was moving too slowly, so he came personally to hurry Yu Sheng along?

    Li Zhen responded lightly, "We''re working on it, working on it."

    After speaking, she stealthily nced at Yu Sheng. Fortunately, he didn''t say anything.

    It was only at dinnertime that Li Zhen realized Grandpa and the others nned to spend the night. Yu Sheng had asked Wu Ma to prepare three guest rooms in advance. If Grandpa discovered she wasn''t living here, they wouldn''t be able to hide the divorce.

    Li Zhen could only stay as well to keep up the act.

    After dinner, Yu Sheng went to his study to work overtime.

    Li Zhen stayed with Grandpa in the guest room until ten before returning to the master bedroom.

    The master bedroom she shared with Yu Sheng was on the third floor. When she went upstairs, the room was empty with the door open and the lights off inside.

    She turned on the lights after entering. The borate crystal chandelier instantly zed, filling the four-meter-high space with luxurious brightness.

    Li Zhen quickly nced around and discovered the bedroomyout was exactly the same as when she had left. Their hastily taken wedding photo still hung above the headboard. The old wooden vanity Yu Sheng had handcrafted for her during college still sat by the window. She had only been gone a few days and Yu Sheng was so busy, it was normal he hadn''t had time to clean up.

    Li Zhen had carried Yu Sheng''s bank cards with her today. She now ced them on the nightstand along with the property ownership certificate for this vi.

    The bedroom window was arge floor-to-ceiling window overlooking theke. As usual, she expertly left the window half open and lowered the inneryer of sheer curtains. Theke breeze gently blew in, stirring the curtainszily.

    Instead of showering and changing into pajamas as usual, she took out a pillow and twoforters from the walk-in closet. She spread one on the floor and draped the other over herself.

    After turning off the lights, shey down fully dressed to sleep on the floor. Dealing with Li Yinnan all day had left her exhausted. No wonder they say money is hard to earn but a certain something is hard to take! She was too tired from fighting for those shares.

    She didn''t know how long she had slept when she hazily sensed Yu Sheng''s warm breath draw near.

    Half-asleep, Li Zhen reflexively muttered softly, "You''re sote again. Come back earlier tomorrow."

    Yu Sheng lowered his head, gently caressing her face with his palm.

    These past few days, she had been prickly toward him. But this grumble was just like her nightly whines whenever he returnedte, coquettishlyining.

    Li Zhen was jolted fully awake. She sat up sharply. "Yu Sheng..."

    Damn, her muddled mind had forgotten they were divorced.

    Yu Sheng stood up, looking down at her. "Go sleep on the bed."

    "No need, this is your ce. You take the bed, I''ll sleep on the floor." Li Zhen knew her ce.

    When Yu Sheng hade upstairs, he had nned to keep his cool. But today she was living in their home yet insisted on sleeping apart from him.

    Yu Sheng''s sharp brows knitted slightly as he gave a cold sneer. "You''ve reminded me this house isn''t mine. If there''s a quarrel, shouldn''t I be the one moving out?"

    "Not yours? Whose is it?" Li Zhen was confused, ncing behind Yu Sheng. "I brought the property ownership certificate for you."

    Following Li Zhen''s gaze, Yu Sheng looked toward the nightstand.

    The dark red ownership certificate and his bank cards were prominently disyed there.

    "You really returned them?" Yu Sheng''s expression grew colder.

    "Your things should be returned to you. Keep them safe and go to bed." Li Zhen had been sleeping soundly before being woken up. Her whole body felt uneasy. Shey back down, flipping over.

    But her arm was suddenly seized by Yu Sheng. Weighing so little, she was effortlessly lifted up by him.

    The disparity in strength meant Li Zhen couldn''t break free at all. Stumbling along, she pleaded, "Yu Sheng, let me go!"

    Yu Sheng opened up the property certificate and flung it at Li Zhen. "Li Zhen, take a good look at who this house belongs to!"

    Li Zhen''s gaze paused. The owner listed on the certificate was her.

    Moreover, the date was before their marriage.

    In other words, strictly speaking, this 30 million yuan vi was her separate premarital property?

    Li Zhen suddenly understood. "Don''t worry, I never intended to take advantage of you. Make time tomorrow and I''ll go with you to transfer the ownership."

    Every word from Li Zhen made Yu Sheng''s expression grow darker.

    His hand holding the certificate trembled with bulging veins. "Li Zhen, do you think transferring ownership is as simple as getting a divorce certificate? Do you think the whole world has time to entertain your games?"

    "Games?" Li Zhen sensed something amiss. "Don''t tell me you still think I got a divorce to spite you?"

    Yu Sheng''s pitch-ck eyes suddenly chilled. His previous angry look vanished, unexpectedly calm. But it made Li Zhen sense a bone-chilling menace.

    Yu Sheng''s tone was obscure as the corner of his mouth curved into a cold smile. "Li Zhen, what do you mean?"

    "I believe I''ve expressed myself very clearly all this time, but it seems that wasn''t the case. So let me be even clearer¡ªI''m not being spiteful or throwing a tantrum." Li Zhen met his gaze directly, without the slightest evasion. "I''m tired of living with you and tired of the self I''ve given up for you. So I''m leaving you to start fresh. Besides, you were the one who brought up divorce."

    "But I need to hide the divorce from family for a while, not too long, just two or three months. The oue is very important to me, which is why I may asionally need your cooperation in keeping up the act."

    "If you''re unhappy to keep pretending for me, I won''t force you."

    "Yu Sheng, am I clear enough now?"

    Yu Sheng froze for an instant.

    Bewilderment and grimness colored his face sinister and terrifying.

    He advanced toward her step by step.

    The fierce aura bore down on her. His dark eyes were fixed intently on her face.

    When Yu Sheng spoke, every word seemed wrung from his throat. "Say it again."

    Li Zhen retreated until she was cornered against the wall.

    Head held high, her momentum didn''t falter one bit. "Why make me repeat myself? I''m leaving you to start a new life. Is that so hard to understand?"

    Before Li Zhen finished speaking, Yu Sheng''s hand abruptly clutched her slender throat. "Take back what you said!"

    Yu Sheng was getting physical with her?

    Li Zhen couldn''t believe it. She raised her left hand to grab Yu Sheng, but his grip didn''t loosen at all. Instead, it gradually tightened.

    A frigid storm seemed to be raging in Yu Sheng''s dark eyes. His gaze was so cold it held no warmth at all. He stubbornly repeated, "Take it back!"

    "Take it back!"

    Li Zhen''s face gradually reddened. Her throat waspressed to the limit, unable to draw breath or utter a sound.

    Her thoughts grew scattered. Only one notion remained¡ªYu Sheng had lost his mind!

    He''d gone insane!

 Chapter 36: Who Hurt

    <h4>Chapter 36</h4>

    Just as Li Zhen was gasping herst breath, the sound of a tray and ss crashing to the ground came from the bedroom door.

    Wu Ma, who hade upstairs to deliver milk, was stunned for two seconds before reacting to the shocking scene before her.

    "Mr. Yu!" Wu Ma cried out in rm as she rushed over to grab Yu Sheng''s hand, "Mr. Yu, stop! That''s your wife!"

    As if woken from a dream, Yu Sheng suddenly loosened his grip.

    He let go of Li Zhen and took a step back, his steps unsteady.

    "Cough cough..." Li Zhen slid to the floor with a thud, coughing violently.

    "Madam!" Wu Ma crouched down and patted Li Zhen''s back in a fluster.

    With a loud "bang", Yu Sheng smashed his fist into the mirror on the dressing table.

    Li Zhen gave a startled jerk!

    What''s gotten into him again!

    Coughing with tears streaming down her face, she struggled to look up at him. The ss on the mirror was shattered into pieces, with fresh blood sttered across it. Yu Sheng stood there with his hand dripping blood, dripping onto the expensive Persian rug without a sound.

    Wu Ma was shaken to the core, crying out, "Young Master!"

    In her panic, Wu Ma called out the name she used for Yu Sheng in the Yu household.

    He was the Yu family''s heir apparent, the precious eldest son of the Yu family. Everyone in Jincheng had to defer to him.

    But now his hand was pierced with fragments of ss, his face pale, his whole body exuding despair.

    Wu Ma cried as she brought over the first aid kit to treat him.

    Yu Sheng looked down at the incessantly coughing Li Zhen, his voice lower than ever before, as if all his strength had been drained away. "Don''t ever say things like that again, Li Zhen."

    With that, he turned and left.

    Yu Sheng went to a bar.

    He sat at the counter, gently swirling the wine ss in his hand and tilting his head back to drink it all down.

    The bartender hurriedly refilled it for him.

    Yu Sheng was still wearing his house clothes, looking out of ce in the bar. But with his tall, muscr build and cold, arrogant temperament, the air of restraint in the extravagant bar made him the perfect aphrodisiac.

    An audacious beauty couldn''t help bute over to strike up a conversation, "Handsome, drinking alone is so boring..."

    "Get lost," Yu Sheng didn''t even give the woman a nce.

    The woman left dejectedly.

    Zhou Chaowen''s hearty voice rang out, "Wearing that to a bar? Pretty trendy, Brother Sheng."

    After getting Yu Sheng''s call, Zhou Chaowen had rushed over immediately.

    But one look at Yu Sheng''s expression as he spoke, and Zhou Chaowen instantly sensed something amiss. "Brother Sheng, what''s wrong? Problems at work?"

    "Work?" Yu Sheng gave a coldugh. He had never had problems at work before.

    He was born with a silver spoon, doted on by all, everything going just as he wished.

    The only exception was after he met Li Zhen.

    Zhou Chaowen lifted his hand and waved it in front of Yu Sheng. "Brother Sheng, how much have you had to drink?"

    He seemed quite drunk.

    "Is it because of sister-inw?" Zhou Chaowen made it sound more like a statement than a question. After so many years, the only one who could make Brother Sheng reveal this side was still only Li Zhen.

    Yu Sheng emptied another ss and nodded slightly.

    "Brother Sheng, don''t take it to heart even if sister-inw made you angry." Zhou Chaowen also ordered a drink, patiently persuading him.

    Back in college, Zhou Chaowen had witnessed the two of them bickering and breaking up countless times.

    There were even a few times he naively thought they might really split up for good...

    Zhou Chaowen drank a ss and patted Yu Sheng''s shoulder. "Brother Sheng, spend more time apanying sister-inw. She seems bad-tempered on the surface but is actually very easy to coax."

    Yu Sheng lifted his hand to rub his temples, his voice slightly hoarse. "I know."

    He knew that.

    Li Zhen had always been stubborn on the outside but soft on the inside.

    You can''t take a woman''s words seriously when she''s angry. He had lost his head for a moment today, provoked by her resolute words that touched a nerve. At that moment he hadpletely lost control andid hands on her.

    Li Zhen loved him so much, she couldn''t bear to leave him.

    She had given him seven years of her love.

    From when she was 19, the fiery passion of her youth had all been given to him.

    In the years toe, it would be the same.

    The image of Li Zhen coughing with a flushed face floated in Yu Sheng''s mind, and a sharp pang of regret pierced his heart. "I need to get her a gift tomorrow, what do you think would be good?"

    -

    Early next morning, Li Zhen saw her grandfather and Li Yinan off.

    She had spent a restless night squeezing in Wu Ma''s bed, too frightened by Yu Sheng''s behavior to fall asleep, gued by nightmares. Fortunately Yu Sheng hadn''te back.

    If not for her grandfather still being here, she would have left already.

    Before this, the most Yu Sheng had done was identally hurt her a bit with his strong grip. He had never actually been violent with her!

    Thank goodness she left him!

    Just thinking about it made Li Zhen shudder.

    Jinlu Garden was an upscale residential area with low density housing, no bus routes, and even ride shares couldn''t get in.

    She had walked a long way before finally getting a cab.

    By the time she reached thepany building, it was almost 10am and she waste.

    As soon as she got out of the cab, she heard someone calling her from behind.

    "Li Zhen."

    She turned back to meet Lu Yanming''s gaze.

    He waste too?

    No, he was the vice president, he didn''t have to clock in so technically couldn''t bete.

    What a coincidence to run into him here. He would definitely interrogate her about why she didn''t go homest night. The clingy golden retriever must be unhappy again.

    But as Lu Yanming approached, his gaze was fixed on her neck.

    There was an uncharacteristic chill in his clear, pale eyes. "Who did that?"

    Li Zhen''s heart lurched.

    Her neck was badly bruised from Yu Sheng choking her yesterday, so early this morning Wu Ma had caked on thickyers of concealer for her.

    Even her grandfather who had raised her hadn''t noticed anything, but Lu Yanming did?

    Li Zhen nced sidelong at the floor-to-ceiling ss of the tower, clearly reflecting her injury. Thankfully, only a little of the concealer had been rubbed off, making it look very minor.

    Li Zhen didn''t really want to air her messy private affairs. She gently said, "It wasn''t someone else, it was..."

    "You did it to yourself? Or was it an ident when you fell?" Lu Yanming mocked lightly as he gazed down at her.

    Li Zhen: ...If you dare believe that, then I dare say it.

    Lu Yanming didn''t pursue the matter further, only headed into the tower.

    Li Zhen breathed a sigh of relief.

    Back in his office, Lu Yanming took off his gold wire-rimmed sses and leaned back into the supple yet extremely supportive leather executive chair, closing his eyes briefly.

    Two secondster, he gave a self-deprecatingugh.

    How did he be so childishly petty?

    He sat up straight and recalled the email, editing his remarks to: [Approved].

    At noon, Wang Peng came to apany Lu Yanming to the cafeteria for lunch.

    At the cafeteria entrance, they encountered Yu Sheng and Zhao Yan, the marketing department manager.

    "Director Wang, Director Lu," Yu Sheng nodded to them on his own initiative.

    Lu Yanming gave a slight nod in return.

    The passing employees couldn''t help but nce over, thepany''s two biggest male celebrities in one frame was too eye-catching.

    Wang Peng asked about the progress on Yu Sheng''stest marketing campaign as they all stepped into the elevator together.

    Yu Sheng pressed the 12th floor button.

    Wang Peng was surprised. "Director Yu, aren''t you going back to your office? What are you going to the studio for?"

    The 12th floor of Honghai Tower housed the indoor photography studio where all thepany''s indoor photoshoots took ce.

    Yu Sheng exined, "The marketing proposal for the new collection was just approved today, so I''m going over to the advertising department to see how the photoshoot ising along."

    At the words "advertising department", Lu Yanming''s gaze flickered upwards slightly.

    Wang Peng was very gratified.

    Most of his leisurely retirement days depended on Yu Sheng!

    Wang Peng said, "Director Yu works hard."

    "Just doing my job," Yu Sheng replied modestly.

    Beside them, Zhao Yan silently lowered his head.

    He didn''t even have the heart to point out his boss''s real intentions.

    At the table next to them in the cafeteria just now, a manager from the advertising department had mentioned Li Zhen was injured but still had to soldier through the photoshootter. Only then did the boss suddenly say he wanted to go check on the advertising department.

    Usually the boss was run off his feet with work and had no time to oversee other departments.

    Lu Yanming spoke unhurriedly, "I haven''t been to the studio before either, I''ll apany Director Yu there as well."

    Yu Sheng looked up. "Director Lu, I''m only going for an informal visit, it''s not an official work inspection."

    Lu Yanming: "That''s fine, I only want an informal look too."

    Yu Sheng''s brow furrowed slightly as he pondered for a moment. "Alright."

    Wang Peng sighed to himself, thinking that he had nned to go back to the office and take a nap after lunch...

 Chapter 37: Confidence is Good, conceit is Not.

    <h4>Chapter 37</h4>

    A few people went to the twelfth floor. Yu Sheng casually asked a passing employee, "The photoshoot for the Starlight Bracelet this afternoon, which studio is it in?"

    "President Yu." The person looked up and saw thepany''s leaders standing in front of him. He was so surprised that he stammered, "It''s... it''s the third one ahead."

    "Thank you."

    There were many photography studios on the twelfth floor. They entered the third one and stood in the shadows just inside the door.

    The shoot had just begun. Li Zhen was standing under the soft lights for a test shoot. The photographer took two shots to check the effect, decided it was good, and started the official shoot.

    Li Zhen put on the Starlight Bracelet. Her slender hands had smooth, graceful lines that made the bracelet look extremely luxurious.

    Wang Peng looked at the female employee with only one hand, oveing her disability through perseverance. She looked very familiar. After his brain spun wildly for a few circles, he remembered.

    Wasn''t this the female employee that Lu Yanming had supported on his first day?

    She was also the one Yu Sheng had given his lunch to in the office that day.

    And it seemed she was also the crew member who got injured during the location shoot, causing Yu Sheng to anxiously rush to the hospital.

    "President Yu..." Wang Peng wanted to ask Yu Sheng her name, but saw that Yu Sheng''s gaze was tranquil and exceptionally focused on the person being photographed.

    The gaze was too profound. Wang Peng thought back to the previous incidents.

    Yu Sheng was divorced. Could it be... his wife discovered he was having an affair with this employee?

    Sure enough, even the most loving husband would have moments when his heart itched to stray.

    Macro Ocean prohibited office rtionships, but this was Yu Sheng. Wang Peng would naturally turn a blind eye. Corporate culture was something for others to manage, Wang Peng only cared about the value employees brought.

    Wang Peng quietly asked Zhao Yan, "Manager Zhao, what''s the name of this colleague being photographed?"

    "She''s called Li Zhen, President Wang," Zhao Yan immediately answered.

    "Oh..." Wang Peng''s tone was meaningful.

    Zhao Yan: ...What does that delighted expression mean, like you''re happily eating up gossip?

    "Yanming," Wang Peng''s tone was like a gossipy old man in an alleyway. "What do you think of this employee?"

    Lu Yanming withdrew his gaze from Li Zhen and looked at Wang Peng. "In what way?"

    "... Wang Peng was stumped for a moment, he wasn''t easy to chat with.

    Wang Peng thought there would be no more conversation today.

    But Lu Yanming slowly said, "Nothing special."

    Zhao Yan''s back stiffened.

    Not good, it seems the boss is angry.

    He quickly nced at Yu Sheng.

    Sure enough, Yu Sheng''s eyes were cold as he said in a frosty tone, "President Lu seems to have quite high standards for employees?"

    Under the spotlight, Li Zhen''s hand gracefully struck various poses on the backdrop, her long, elegant fingers fluttering like butterflies. Although her exquisite face was outside the camera frame, the intery of light and shadows from the spotlight emphasized the softyers of her delicate features.

    Looking like this, as long as one had normal aesthetic sense, no one could say "nothing special" about her.

    "President Yu, do you remember the Christmas g our freshman year of university?" There was a moonlit warmth in Lu Yanming''s eyes behind his gold-rimmed sses for an instant.

    Yu Sheng was confused for a moment, not understanding why Lu Yanming would suddenly ask about this after saying "nothing special".

    But of course he remembered.

    Because Li Zhen had been outstanding that Christmas.

    The drama department had put on a stage y that year for the g, The Song of Evesting Regret.

    Li Zhen yed Yang Yuhuan.

    She wore a long silken dress, with a touch of vermillion on her forehead. She entered the stage covering her face with her sleeve, then slowly revealed her appearance...

    Bewitching the country and city.

    In that moment, all the teachers and students of the school were stunned into awed silence by her beauty.

    In the final scene, Yang Yuhuan flew up into the sky. Emperor Tang Xuanzong only caught a shred of her skirt, it tore, and the beauty left.

    Li Zhen rose into the air, her skirts fluttering, her beauty dazzling, drawing in everyone''s eyes in a frown and mournful expression.

    At the height of the tragic atmosphere, her beauty was like an illusion, proud and deste.

    After that night she blew up on the forums of all the top universities in Jin City. The video clip of her flying up into the sky appeared on nearly every college student''s phone. Many girls used screenshots from that scene as their avatar.

    For a period of time, nearly everyone used verses from The Song of Evesting Regret as a trend.

    Girls posting a selfie might caption it: A girl has just grown up in this household, raised deep within, still unknown to the world.

    Guys making dirty jokes would also pretentiously quote: The spring night is short, the sun rises high, from now on the emperor will no longer attend court early.

    Those dumped would moodily post something like: Heaven and earth may end, but this hatred is endless.

    "President Yu," Lu Yanming''s maic voice lowered a few degrees. "I still remember Li Zhen from back then, do you? Do you still remember her?"

    Yu Sheng''s fingers couldn''t help but tremble slightly.

    The Li Zhen in front of them now had a wooden expression under the spotlight, nothing like her lively radiancemanding the stage and all eyes.

    This was work she didn''t love, Yu Sheng knew.

    Yu Sheng also remembered her shocked then silent expression at graduation when he made her give up entering the entertainment industry, and herter acquiescence.

    But she couldn''t enter the entertainment industry.

    The dreams she gave up, he would make up to her in other ways.

    Yu Sheng took a deep breath, his thoughts calming down. "President Lu, you knew Li Zhen from before? So you recognized her that first day?"

    Lu Yanming nodded. "Yes, I often went back to school after graduating, and ran into her more than a few times. She left a deep impression on me."

    "That''s a bit strange," Yu Sheng''s gaze grew cold, his tone turning icy, looking at Lu Yanming with a hint of scrutiny. "We''re fellow alumni, yet President Lu said he didn''t recognize me at the executive banquet, but you say today you remember Li Zhen? At A University I was much more well-known than her, it seems."

    "More well-known than her?" Lu Yanming let out a soft chuckle. "President Yu, confidence is good, arrogance is not."

    Wang Peng was baffled. Weren''t they just chatting about the past as alumni? Why did it sound like the tone was off?

    Zhao Yan was terrified at the side.

    The boss''s gaze looks dangerous, what''s going on?

    The four had different thoughts.

    At this moment, there was a sudden cry from the set, "Li Zhen!"

    Lu Yanming and Yu Sheng both looked over. The huge light on the ceiling rig was shaking precariously.

    In the next second after someone called out Li Zhen''s name, the light''s connectors suddenly broke free and it rapidly plunged down, right above Li Zhen''s head.

    Li Zhen quickly dodged, but her abrupt movement made her trip over the messy boxes underfoot. As she fell forward, knowing she was about to be smashed by the falling light, two hands suddenly reached out to catch her.

    How were Lu Yanming and Yu Sheng here?

    She didn''t have time to think too much, just one thought - she and Yu Sheng were known to be alumni at thepany, but she had no connection with Lu Yanming here.

    So in a split second she threw herself into Yu Sheng''s arms and was firmly caught.

    Lu Yanming''s movement froze mid-air.

    With a crash, the light smashed to pieces behind Li Zhen.

    Yu Sheng held Li Zhen tightly in his embrace, yelling loud enough to shake eardrums, "Who the fuck is in charge, get out here!"

    Originally a falling light wasn''t a big deal, and no one was hurt, but Yu Sheng''s furious ze was too intense. The person in charge turned deathly pale with fright and hurriedly bent over to run over.

    The entire studio descended into chaos, the ruckus so loud that people from other studios also crowded in to watch the spectacle.

    Only Lu Yanming stood quietly in ce, his gaze heavy behind his gold-rimmed sses.

    The main light was gone, but the fill lights were still bright.

    Their glow focused entirely on Li Zhen and Yu Sheng, like it had carved out a safe, quiet space for them in this noisy, chaotic world.

 Chapter 38: Miracle Medicine

    <h4>Chapter 38</h4>

    Amid the hubbub, Lu Yanming turned around and walked out.

    Wang Peng was watching themotion, and when he saw Lu Yanming leave, he hurried to catch up, ¡°Yanming...¡±

    News of what happened at the photography studio spread quickly.

    When Li Zhen returned to the office, Zhang Xiyi anxiously looked her up and down, ¡°My little Zhenzhen, I was just about toe to the twelfth floor to find you. Are you okay? You¡¯re not hurt, are you?¡±

    Li Zhen smiled and answered, ¡°I¡¯m fine, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve always been lucky.¡±

    It was just that her right wrist had taken some force when she had thrown herself into Yu Sheng''s arms, but now she didn¡¯t feel anything.

    ¡°Don¡¯t act tough.¡± Meng Yuanjie hurriedly took out a tube of ointment, ¡°If you¡¯re hurt, use this. This medicine cures all wounds.¡±

    Yu Sheng had given him this medicine yesterday, so he looked into it.

    This medicine was made by a traditional Chinese medicine clinic in Jincheng. Because the medicinal materials were hard to buy and the decocting process was very particr, it was so scarce that it wasn¡¯t avable for purchase on the market. In other words, money couldn¡¯t buy it.

    But it wasn¡¯t surprising that Yu Sheng could get it.

    After all, in the eyes of everyone at Honghai, Yu Sheng was omnipotent.

    ¡°What kind of ointment is this? Where did ite from?¡± Li Zhen took it and smelled it. The smell was pungent.

    It seemed like good medicine.

    At least it was smelly enough.

    Yu Sheng had told him not to mention that it was from him, so Meng Yuanjie could only say vaguely, ¡°It¡¯s a magical medicine, just use it.¡±

    Qiao Yi was worried beside them, only caring about Li Zhen¡¯s injury, ¡°Are you really not hurt? What they spread sounded so scary, saying you and President Yu were both hit by the lights.¡±

    ¡°You can listen to rumors?¡± Li Zhen was speechless.

    Thest time Lu Yanming was talked about for five seconds was already preposterous. From then on, she would never believe rumors again.

    Li Zhen didn¡¯t chat with them for long.

    After work, she went straight to the hospital to have the doctor take off her bandage. Having her right hand wrapped up and in a sling was too inconvenient, so she might as well take it off.

    Her right hand only had some unnoticeable swelling left, and the small wounds on the skin had already scabbed over, so there was no major problem.

    She couldn¡¯t dy her pregnancy ns any longer!

    It was going to be the weekend in a couple days, so freeing up her right hand, she needed to have a pleasant coboration with her partner-in-name-only husband these next two days.

    With the bandage off, Li Zhen walked out of the hospital feeling light and free.

    She had just gotten to the entrance when a sports car stopped in front of Li Zhen.

    ¡°Li Zhen!¡±

    The car window rolled down, and Dong Wanwan¡¯s angry face appeared, ¡°It really is you! You conspired with that man to deceive me. I was just about to look for you!¡±

    Yesterday, Dong Wanwan had found the person who sold her the diamond and brought the diamond and the previous appraisal certificate to him. That person firmly denied selling her a fake and took her to Jincheng¡¯srgest third-party appraisal institution. Today, she had just gotten the certificate back, and the appraisal result was that the diamond was real!

    She had actually been fooled by Li Zhen and that man!

    Today, she had originally gone to the hospital for a pre-pregnancy checkup, and had just finished when she happened to run into Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen was stunned for a moment.

    It shouldn¡¯t be like this. Since Lu Yanming said it was fake, then it must be fake.

    She immediately spoke righteously, full of confidence, ¡°No evidence, I don¡¯t believe it.¡±

    ¡°The new appraisal certificate I got yesterday is still in my bag.¡±

    ¡°What if you¡¯re trying to deceive me with a fake certificate again?¡±

    ¡°Looks like you won¡¯t give up until you see the coffin!¡± Dong Wanwan gave a cold snort, looking at her arrogantly from the car, ¡°Fine, then you go find the person who appraised it for me yesterday and let him tell you to your face.¡±

    ¡°Sorry, I don¡¯t have time.¡± Li Zhen would have to be crazy to go with her.

    ¡°Thenpensate me the 320,000 right now!¡±

    ¡°What were you saying just now?¡±

    ¡°Go find the person who appraised it for me yesterday...¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±

    Li Zhen followed Dong Wanwan to an auction house.

    There happened to be an auction taking ce today, so the auction hall was filled with crowdsing and going, and signs were posted publicly disying today¡¯s auction items.

    Dong Wanwan passed through the auction hall and brought Li Zhen to the backstage, finding a middle-aged man.

    Dong Wanwan spoke respectfully, ¡°Master Gu, this is the person I told you about yesterday who imed the pink diamond I had was fake. She still doesn¡¯t believe me, so I could only bring her to see you in person.¡±

    Master Gu was a senior figure in Jincheng¡¯s jewelry and antiques circles.

    He not only served at third-party appraisal institutions but was also a famous auctioneer.

    Li Zhen rarely bought jewelry, but thepany had invited him once for an offline promotional event, so she also knew a little about him.

    She instantly felt something was off. Could the diamond be real?

    Li Zhen still didn¡¯t quite believe Lu Yanming would make a mistake.

    Master Gu nced lightly at Li Zhen, ¡°Little miss, you look innocent, how could you do such shady things? It was clearly a high quality pink diamond, so how did it be fake when it got to you?¡±

    Dong Wanwan arrogantly looked at Li Zhen with her chin raised.

    Li Zhen kept her expression calm, smiling as she said, ¡°Please hold on a moment, you two. Give me one minute.¡±

    After saying that, she left without waiting for their reaction, nimbly making her way to the side.

    Li Zhen swiftly called Lu Yanming.

    The other side picked up almost instantly, but his voice waszy, ¡°Who is this?¡±

    ¡°It''s me, President Lu...¡± Li Zhen lowered her voice, ¡°My annoying former roommate came back and said the diamond is real, and gave a new appraisal certificate.

    Her 320,000 yuan!

    The ups and downs of this matter were more exciting than a rollercoaster ride.

    Lu Yanming¡¯s voice was slightly low, ¡°You called me just for this?¡±

    He even sounded a little aggrieved?

    Wasn¡¯t this matter important?

    It was very important, okay!

    Li Zhen: ¡°President Lu, this is an emergency! Is that diamond real or fake?¡±

    Lu Yanming spoke matter-of-factly, ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±

    The appraisal methods he talked about were real, so... Lu Yanming also knew those pink diamonds were real.

    But Li Zhen didn¡¯t want it to be real, so it could only be fake.

    Li Zhen was confused, ¡°How could you, Vice President of Honghai, not know?¡±

    Li Zhen¡¯s mind was in disorder.

    ¡°No, that¡¯s not the point. The point is, you don''t know, so how could you have gone on so confidently saying the jewelry was fake?¡±

    Lu Yanming: ¡°I made it up.¡±

    Li Zhen was struck speechless, ¡°President Lu, is this something you can just make up? I can¡¯t get out of this predicament now!¡±

    ¡°You said it was someone you disliked, of course you couldn''t pay her money.¡± Lu Yanming indifferentlyughed lightly.

    Li Zhen¡¯s scalp was about to explode.

    So in other words, she was destined to lose this 320,000 yuan?

    And she would also be mocked by Dong Wanwan?

    Just as Li Zhen¡¯s mind was racing through countless thoughts, Lu Yanming casually asked, "Which appraisal institution did the certificate yesterday?"

    "Why are you asking this?" Li Zhen thought hard for a moment and told him the name of the institution Master Gu was at.

    Lu Yanming: "Okay, just tell them that appraisal certificate is fake. You don''t need to worry about the rest."

    Lu Yanming hung up the phone.

    What did he mean?

    For her to brazenly im an appraisal certificate issued by a master was fake?

    Li Zhen felt that her four years studying performing arts had been wasted. Lu Yanming¡¯s performance in front of Dong Wanwan yesterday was the level of a movie emperor. She and Dong Wanwan had both believed him.

    Now it was time for her to carry that acting skill through to the end, huh!

    Very well, it was time for her performance.

    After finishing the call, Li Zhen went back and thought to herself she must not falter. But this wasn''t a situation where she could freely improvise under the spotlight either. Her boldness clearly fell short by two levelspared to Lu Yanming¡¯s thick skin. Her momentum was obviously weaker as she said, ¡°About this certificate, I think the result still needs to be discussed.¡±

    Dong Wanwan stood with her hands on her hips looking arrogantly at her, ¡°Li Zhen, don¡¯t tell me you still want to say this appraisal certificate I have is fake right in front of Master Gu?¡±

    Li Zhen: ......Guess right, that''s what I mean.

    Before Li Zhen could say anything more, Master Gu''s phone suddenly rang.

    Master Gu answered the call, and his expression drastically changed after a few seconds. He looked up at Dong Wanwan and responded with ¡°Okay, I see, I understand¡± to the other end, then hung up.

    Dong Wanwan felt chills down her back from Master Gu staring at her. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Master Gu?¡±

    Master Gu looked at her strangely, ¡°There was a mistake with yesterday¡¯s certificate.¡±

    ¡°What mistake, the certificate code was wrong?¡± Dong Wanwan asked.

    ¡°No, the result was wrong. Those twelve diamonds of yours are all fake.¡±

    Dong Wanwan''s eyes widened, looking just like a cat who got stepped on its tail. ¡°Impossible, how could they be fake?¡±

    ¡°They really are fake. I can''t waste more time with you two, the auction is about to start.¡± After saying that, Master Gu hurriedly left.

    Li Zhen: ......

    Dong Wanwan: ......

    It took Dong Wanwan a good while toe back to her senses. She hurriedly chased after him, ¡°Master Gu, how could the appraisal certificate be wrong? Master Gu...¡±

    Li Zhen stood in ce alone, full of questions.

 Chapter 39: Stop Calling Me Sister-in-law.

    <h4>Chapter 39</h4>

    Li Zhen immediately realized that she no longer had to pay the 320,000 yuan fine?

    Li Zhen''s mood immediately soared. She turned around and abruptly met two pairs of inquisitive eyes.

    Zhou Chaowen and Yu Sheng?

    Li Zhen''s heart skipped a beat.

    What kind of horror movie was this, with two people appearing out of nowhere!

    Zhou Chaowen smiled and said, "Sister-inw, are you also here to attend the auction?"

    Yu Sheng stood next to Zhou Chaowen, his gaze tranquil, dressed impably in a suit, looking handsome and elegant.

    Seeing Yu Sheng all of a sudden, Li Zhen''s first reaction was not the moment earlier when he had caught her, but rather his sinister expressionst night when he had grabbed her by the throat.

    She instinctively took a step back, "No, I..."

    She stopped halfway, realizing she couldn''t tell Zhou Chaowen that she had just quarreled with his wife.

    Zhou Chaowen had always been decent to her in the past, and there was no need to bother him with these squabbles between women.

    Li Zhen steadied her mind and smiled lightly, "I''m just looking around casually..."

    Yu Sheng nced at her and said, "Since you''re here, let''s go together."

    Li Zhen declined, "No need."

    But Yu Sheng had already started walking forward.

    Zhou Chaowen hurriedly came over to pull her along, "Let''s go, sister-inw, let''s go together and take a look."

    Li Zhen couldn''t break free of his grip.

    She considered Zhou Chaowen an old friend from their college days, so she didn''t want to offend him. But she also didn''t want him to further misunderstand her rtionship with Yu Sheng. That form of address, sister-inw, was really grating to her ears.

    She whispered to Zhou Chaowen, "Chaowen, don''t call me sister-inw from now on. Yu Sheng and I are actually divorced already."

    Zhou Chaowen looked slightly surprised.

    So the two of them were fighting fiercely this time?

    No wonder Brother Sheng was drinking alonest night.

    This time they must be quarreling for a while, maybe one or two weeks before they could reconcile, after all divorce was no small matter.

    Zhou Chaowen readily epted it, "I see, I understand."

    Li Zhen had expected Zhou Chaowen would try to persuade her to get back together, she didn''t expect him to ept it so quickly.

    Li Zhen breathed a sigh of relief, "Chaowen, you really are a good friend."

    "Of course, sister-inw."

    "Don''t call me sister-inw anymore..."

    "Alright, sister-inw."

    Li Zhen: ......Nonsense! Turns out he didn''t believe it at all.

    Li Zhen followed the two into the auction hall.

    Yu Sheng nced at her wrist, "It''s only been a few days, how did you take it off so quickly?"

    "When it was better I took it off," Li Zhen looked at her wrist, implying, "In case someone grabs my neck again next time, I''ll only have one hand free, won''t be convenient to hit back."

    Yu Sheng''s thin lips were drawn in a straight line, and he didn''t speak further, his gaze sweeping over her slender neck.

    He withdrew his gaze, "There won''t be a next time."

    Li Zhen neither agreed nor disagreed.

    The auction started, and the auctioneer today was Master Gu.

    Li Zhen wasn''t interested in the auction at all, and didn''t pay any attention to what was being exhibited.

    Halfway through the auction, someone sat down next to Zhou Chaowen.

    Li Zhen nced over out of boredom, it was Dong Wanwan.

    Their eyes met.

    Li Zhen smiled.

    Dong Wanwan''s face flushed red with anger.

    Just now Dong Wanwan had gone to find Master Gu, but Master Gupletely ignored her. She contacted the person who had sold her the watch before, and told him the diamond was fake, but that person scolded her for trying to cheat him, and directly blocked her.

    She was so angry she had nned to go home, and was surprised to see Zhou Chaowen in the hall, which was why she came to sit down.

    She was extremely upset about this matter, it seemed she had been led around by the nose by Li Zhen, but Dong Wanwan didn''t want to tell any of this to Zhou Chaowen at all.

    She pouted coquettishly, "Darling, what are you doing at the auction? Don''t tell me you knew I''ve been in a bad moodtely, so you came specially to buy me a present?"

    Dong Wanwan was clearly hinting.

    Zhou Chaowen understood, "Tell me what you want, I''ll buy it for you."

    "Thank you darling, I want that finale antique vase. I''ve been learning flower arrangementtely, so I just happen to need a vase." Dong Wanwan snuggled up to Zhou Chaowen intimately, "But it''s a bit expensive, 500,000."

    When Dong Wanwan said this, she deliberately raised her voice for Li Zhen to hear.

    Li Zhen: ......Disgusting!

    Zhou Chaowen gently said, "As long as you like it, I''ll buy it for you."

    Having obtained the response she wanted, Dong Wanwan asked again, "By the way darling, did Brother Sheng alsoe to shop for things?"

    Zhou Chaowen was extremely patient, "Yes."

    Dong Wanwan was unhappy in her heart immediately.

    How could Yu Sheng still treat Li Zhen so well after so many years!

    Dong Wanwan: "But the items being auctioned today are quite expensive..."

    Implying that Yu Sheng and the others were only working ss, could they afford it?

    Zhou Chaowen: "What Brother Sheng wants to buy is a limited edition brooch from an obscure brand in the past, not expensive, probably just 20,000."

    "Pfft..." Dong Wanwan couldn''t helpughing out loud, "Oh, then if they scrape together they can probably afford it."

    Dong Wanwan''s unhappy mood because of the diamond instantly felt wonderful again.

    It was just 320,000, it''s gone so it''s gone.

    But even without paying this 320,000, Li Zhen was still less than one millionth of what she had.

    All she needed to do was act coquettish to buy a vase.

    Li Zhen''s husbandes to this auction, but can only tiptoe to buy a 20,000 brooch.

    Dong Wanwan pretended to be kind, "Brother Sheng, a 20,000 brooch is too ordinary. Why don''t we chip in some more money, I think there''s a ne for around 150,000 today, buy something nicer."

    Yu Sheng didn''t even nce at Dong Wanwan, just lightly said, "I only want that brooch."

    This brooch was a limited edition piece from a small obscure brand when he was in college, only 3 were made in total.

    At that time he had bought one and given it to Li Zhen, butter Li Zhen lost it somewhere, and she had always said what a pity it was.

    Wanting to give her a gift to ease the tension between them, nothing could be better than finding this lost piece again. So when Zhou Chaowen told him yesterday there would be a charity auction where he could buy a gift, he immediately spotted this brooch among the auction items.

    Li Zhen had been listening to the conversation between them, and also found it a bit strange. Yu Sheng wasn''t working overtime today, just to bid on a brooch?

    Until the brooch was brought on stage by the usher, Li Zhen finally understood why.

    It was that brooch!

    Li Zhen''s heart lightly skipped a beat, and she suddenly recalled something from sophomore year.

    She had started chasing after Yu Sheng since freshman year, and attended almost every one of his games.

    Once during sophomore year she was squatting at the sideline waiting to pass him water after the game, when suddenly a ball came flying toward her.

    She dodged backwards, frightened, and her phone fell to the ground with a "smack", about to smash into her. But the ball was caught in midair a few centimeters from her by Yu Sheng.

    Yu Sheng threw the ball back to the guy, coldly saying, "If you can''t y, don''t y next time."

    That guy quickly apologized.

    Yu Sheng bent down to pick up her phone, and paused when he saw her screen, then handed the phone back to her, and as usual walked away with a stern face.

    At that time she hadn''t gotten together with Yu Sheng yet.

    He always had that arrogant, sour face toward her.

    On her phone screen was the news that the brooch would go on sale in 2 days. She really liked it, but there were only 3, and that obscure brand was really popr among college students. The sale was in Haishi, not Jincheng, so there was no way she could grab one.

    A few dayster when she was heading back to her dorm after ss, she ran into Yu Sheng halfway.

    He took out a box and held it out to her, "My rtive bought the wrong one and told me to throw it away. I''m toozy to throw it, you take it and use it."

 Chapter 40: Throwing Money at It

    <h4>Chapter 40</h4>

    When she saw the thing she had been longing for, she was so happy that she tiptoed and kissed Yu Sheng on the cheek with a "pop".

    The sunlight filtering through the roadside treetops quickly reflected Yu Sheng''s flushed face. He angrily said, "I''m not your boyfriend, how can you kiss me?"

    The exasperated Yu Sheng was like an innocent little chick.

    Li Zhenughed unrestrainedly, "Sooner orter you will be, I''m just taking some sweetness first."

    Yu Sheng''s expression changed several times, and he left angrily.

    Later, Li Zhen had dinner with Wan Zhe and the others, and only then did she learn from Wan Zhe''s mouth that Yu Sheng had taken two days off, flew to Haishi to line up all night, but still couldn''t buy it. In the end, he paid five times the price to the person who grabbed it before he could buy it.

    Li Zhen turned her head to look.

    The man in front of her was no longer the shy teenager who used to blush easily and was willing to give all his time to her. That him remained forever in her passionate youth.

    Sitting next to her now, Yu Sheng had a straight back, rugged and handsome side face, and apelling temperament.

    At the age of 26, he was already a mature, steady social elite, wise yet aloof. Women and love seemed to have been phased out of his life, just dispensablepany. He only needed the glory brought by his career.

    Did Yu Sheng bid on this brooch because he thought it looked good and wanted to give it to another woman?

    On stage, Master Gu had finished introducing this brooch and immediately got to the point, "The starting bid price is 2,500 yuan, and each bid increment is 1,000 yuan."

    The original retail price was around 1,500 yuan when it was first sold.

    Today was a charity auction, so the donor also set a very gentle price.

    Yu Sheng raised his bidding paddle.

    Master Gu''s eyes fell upon him, "2,500 yuan, going once."

    Then, Master Gu looked towards the back few rows: "3,500 yuan."

    Usually people would raise the price a few rounds at charity auctions, but when it reached a suitable price, they would stop.

    Dong Wanwan scoffed and sneered, posting a message on Moments, "Oh, it''s so boring. At the auction site, listening to my old roommate frugally bidding tens of thousands on something, raising the price thousands at a time... My friends, who understands this boredom?"

    Then she took a side selfie of Li Zhen and Yu Sheng sitting together.

    Dong Wanwan used to be a social butterfly in college, and had many college alumni as friends on Moments.

    Someone immediatelymented: "The school hunk and Li Zhen?"

    Dong Wanwan: "Who else could it be?"

    Some people at the auction site started to yawn.

    By this time, after a few more rounds of bidding, the price had reached 5,500 yuan.

    Yu Sheng had never liked wasting time. He raised his paddle, "20,000."

    Zhou Chaowen had found out yesterday that this was the approximate expected final price predicted by the auction house.

    "20,000," Master Gu was also uninterested in auctions of tens of thousands, and wanted to hurry to the next lot. His speech quickened, "20,000 going once, 20,000 going twice..."

    A paddle was raised from the back seats.

    Reluctantly, Master Gu continued, "20,000, 1,000."

    Master Gu looked displeased at the back seat, this was not reasonable bidding! Although this brooch was a limited edition, it was only worth around 10,000. Everyone was here to support charity. They should know to stop at 20,000.

    Master Gu: "20,000 1,000, going once."

    Yu Sheng: "30,000."

    Back seat raised paddle, Master Gu: "30,000 1,000."

    Yu Sheng: "40,000."

    Back seat raised paddle, Master Gu: "40,000 1,000."

    Yu Sheng realized something was wrong, and looked back, but the person was in the dark at the back and he couldn''t see clearly at all.

    Master Gu was finally energized.

    A small brooch had actually been bid up to 40,000!

    The originally boring scene instantly became exciting for the crowd. It wasn''t that they thought the price was too high, but they didn''t expect there to be such a moneyburning fool.

    Dong Wanwan said gloatingly: "Brother Sheng, since you haven''t attended many auctions, you may not know that bids like this, where the price is only raised a little each time but agreeably quickly, means the other party is determined to get this item. Brother Sheng, everyone whoes to charity auctions is either rich or noble, so why don''t you just let it go, you can''t outbid them."

    Zhou Chaowen interrupted, "It''s fine, Brother Sheng, I''ll pay the amount exceeding 200,000."

    At most it would just be a few hundred thousand more, Zhou Chaowen didn''t care.

    Dong Wanwan pouted unhappily, but didn''t say any more.

    Yu Sheng didn''t respond. He just raised his voice slightly, "100,000."

    The whole scene quieted. Everyone listened for the reaction from the back seat.

    In her heart, Dong Wanwan looked down on him - as soon as Zhou Chaowen said he would pay the amount exceeding, Yu Sheng immediately raised the price sharply!

    Back seat raised paddle twice, Master Gu: "100,000 1,000."

    "200,000," said Yu Sheng, his dark eyes narrowing slightly.

    Silence for a moment.

    The whole scene gasped.

    Bidding like this was unheard of!

    From 100,000 jumped straight to 200,000! Most importantly, this was just a small brooch!

    This charity auction was a benefit auction for a small children''s welfare home. The most expensive lot was the final antique vase, at 500,000.

    And now, just a short while in, a small brooch had already been bid up to 200,000!

    The back seat raised their paddle again.

    Master Gu said in surprise, "200,000 1,000."

    These two moneyburning fools hade prepared!

    Yu Sheng: "500,000."

    The whole scene instantly fell dead silent, you could hear a pin drop.

    "Cough cough..." Zhou Chaowen was so shocked he choked. He didn''t mind spending 500,000 for Yu Sheng, but he felt a small brooch wasn''t worth it!

    He covered his chest and calcted the money in his card, about over 2 million that he could swipe out tonight. 200,000 should be the limit, right?

    Yet the back seat still raised their paddle. Master Gu''s voice was slightly shaking now, "500,000 1,000!"

    Yu Sheng''s expression didn''t change. "1 million."

    Dong Wanwan''s eyes widened, was Yu Sheng an idiot? Treating money like dirt?

    "Brother Sheng!" Zhou Chaowen panicked, "No need, no need! We can get another gift. 1 million is enough for a housing down payment! Forget it if the other party bids again."

    Even Li Zhen frowned, "Forget it, if you increase again you''ll probably make the news... No one can be that stupid."

    Everyone in the venue craned their necks to see who it was, but most seats were in the dark and no one could see clearly!

    Some had already started secretly calling news tip lines: "I have a tip, someone spent 1 million to buy a brooch worth a few thousand! Come quickly!"

    The back seat raised their paddle again.

    Master Gu calmly thought: he had achieved great sess this year, handling a 2 million lot.

    Even he rarely auctioned off items over 1 million. The highest he had handled was 1.3 million.

    He thought it would probably end around here.

    But the next second, Yu Sheng''s voice rang out: "2 million."

    What he hated most was others fighting him for something he wanted. The other party wanted it? No one could take away what he desired!

    Dead silence across the venue, you could hear a pin drop.

    Zhou Chaowen''s blood pressure was a bit high. This was bad, Brother Sheng had lost it!

    He covered his chest and calcted the money in his card again, about just over 2 million that he could swipe out tonight. 2 million should be the limit, right?

    In the veryst row, Fei Zhao heard Yu Sheng bid 2 million, and raised his paddle without waiting for Lu Yanming next to him to instruct.

    Master Gu: "2 million 1,000."

    Fei Zhao was already prepared to raise his paddle again.

    Throwing money around? No one on earth could outspend his young master''s family. For the Lu family, money was just meaningless numbers.

    Lu Yanming''s face was hidden in the darkness, his eyes cold behind his gold rimmed sses.

 Chapter 41: To rest

    <h4>Chapter 41</h4>

    Yu Sheng raised his paddle, about to bid again, but was stopped by Li Zhen.

    Yu Sheng nced at her sideways.

    Li Zhen red at him, "Enough, don''t you have anywhere else to spend your money?"

    They were already sitting in the front row, so Master Gu could clearly see their actions.

    Master Gu looked confused, his expression seemed to be asking "Did you say three million?"

    Seeing the bidding paddle already raised, Li Zhen was caught in a dilemma. She raised one finger, "Just one thousand more! Only one thousand!"

    Master Gu understood and quickly said, "Two million and two thousand yuan."

    "Li Zhen is actually helping him increase the price!" Fei Zhao wanted to raise his paddle again but saw Lu Yanming getting up.

    Fei Zhao was startled, "Young Master?"

    Lu Yanming''s back showed a hint of dejection. "What she wants is just something he gave her."

    The confused Fei Zhao hurried to follow him.

    It was when Fei Zhao arranged a ward for Li Zhenst time that he found out many things by tracing the clues. Turns out the Young Master was willing to live in that old residential area because he cohabited with Li Zhen! It turned out this Li Zhen was the "her" he knelt before Old Madam and said "She''s married, I won''t marry in this life" when he rejected the arranged marriage!

    It nearly scared Old Madam to death!

    Fei Zhao was very puzzled. This woman was ordinary in every way, just decent looking. Why did the Young Master take a liking to her back then?

    "Two million and two thousand yuan going once."

    "Two million and two thousand yuan going twice."

    "Two million and two thousand yuan going thrice, sold!"

    Thunderous apuse filled the auction hall.

    Fei Zhao stood at the entrance and looked back at the hall, sighing softly, "s, when has the Young Master been so frustrated."

    Love hurts the most since ancient times.

    -

    The atmosphere in the hall was hot.

    Li Zhen listened to Wang Wanwan cursing, to the crowd congratting them, to the emotionally stirred reporters interviewing them, to people saying they were kind-hearted and the money would support the welfare home for years and further improve living conditions.

    Everything was noisy and chaotic.

    The auction wasn''t over yet but they had turned on the lights in the hall.

    Li Zhen felt strangely restless for no reason. She looked back and saw the back rows were empty. The one who bid against Yu Sheng was gone.

    Afraid they would regret it, the auction house staff swiftly brought a POS machine.

    Under the envious gazes of the crowd, and the shock of Wang Wanwan and Zhou Chao Wen, Yu Sheng swiped his card.

    Master Gu respectfully presented the box to him and opened it. "Sir, congrattions."

    The broochy quietly inside the velvet box.

    The reporters shoved their cameras close to see its ordinary appearance, unable to hide their surprise.

    It was a little rabbit smiling, cute and petite.

    This was what had gone for two million!

    Yu Sheng took it out and skillfully pinned it on Li Zhen''s clothes.

    He looked her up and down, "You''re still the same as before."

    Li Zhen was startled, not expecting he had bought it to give her.

    She looked at the rabbit smiling quietly on her chest and said softly, "What a pity, you aren''t the same as before."

    Her voice was so soft it was barely audible amidst the noisy crowd.

    Li Zhen took off the brooch and put it back in the velvet box before walking away.

    Yu Sheng''s brows furrowed, a sh of coldness in his eyes, then he regained hisposure.

    It was fine, after she cooled off, he could give it to her again when she got home.

    -

    It was almost 10 pm when Li Zhen got home.

    As she entered, she heard Lu Yanming showering in the bathroom.

    Exhausted, she changed into pajamas and flopped onto the bed, falling asleep in minutes.

    In her dazed state, she sensed the mattress sinking as the tall, warm body embraced her from behind.

    She shuddered in shock, instantly awake. "Mr. Lu?"

    "Mm," Lu Yanming''s voice was low as he replied. "Don''t call me Mr. Lu, just say my name."

    With him behind her, Li Zhen couldn''t see his expression. She just felt his tone was very low and heavy, seeming unhappy.

    Li Zhen obeyed meekly. "Lu Yanming..."

    Before she finished speaking, her chin was gripped by Lu Yanming and she was forced to turn her head in an awkward angle, suddenly kissed forcefully.

    Dazed by his kiss, Li Zhen was easily flipped over by Lu Yanming to face him. He pressed against her intimately from top to bottom.

    Lu Yanming bit her earlobe, grinding over every inch heavily. His hoarse, burning voice seared her sensitive ears. "Li Zhen, I''m so bitter."

    He felt too bitter inside, what should he do?

    "Don''t, don''t bite my ear!" As soon as Li Zhen spoke, her voice was stickier and softer than water. Her left hand gripped Lu Yanming''s firm muscr arm, nails digging deep into his muscles.

    It was a night of passion.

    -

    The next morning when Li Zhen woke up, her body felt like it had been disassembled and reassembled.

    She inhaled sharply in pain as she tried to sit up. No, she couldn''t get out of bed. Luckily it was the weekend so she didn''t have to work.

    "Knock knock", Lu Yanming knocked twice on the door, carrying a tray of breakfast.

    Li Zhen was annoyed. "The door''s not locked."

    He hade in without knockingst night but acted gentlemanly in the day.

    Lu Yanming ignored her tone automatically. He strode in, ced the breakfast in front of her, "You were tiredst night, eat something."

    Li Zhen''s stomach growled untimely twice.

    She was hungry indeed, though very annoyed with Lu Yanming. Still, she had to eat.

    Li Zhen focused on eating silently, unaware her pajamas had been torn to shreds inst night''s passionate activity, barely hanging off her shoulders now. It exposed her smooth, rounded shoulders. Her shoulders, neck and corbones were all covered with suggestive marks.

    Lu Yanming nced at her and walked over to pull her top up, covering her beautiful corbones. His warm fingertips slid over her cool skin, eliciting a shiver from deep within Li Zhen.

    She jerked her head up abruptly to look at Lu Yanming. "Mr. Lu, fields really can get worn out from too much plowing, believe me!"

    Lu Yanming chuckled lightly as he sat next to her on the bed. "I wasn''t nning anything, I''m not that much of a beast."

    Li Zhen sneered inwardly. Hmph.

    The more she struggledst night, the more vigorous he plowed. Like a tireless ox.

    She thought after going all out like thatst night, he''d finally rxpletely. But at the critical moment, he was still the same as before...

    Not a single seed spilled!

    Li Zhen was truly angry!

    This couldn''t continue.

    As soon as Lu Yanming left, Li Zhen swiftly searched on her phone. The titles got more sensational.

    [Marital Skills, Teach You to Know It Better]

    [36 Strategies to Make Him Kneel Under Your Pomegranate Skirt]

    [Different Every Night, Make Him Only Crave Your Liquids]

    Biting the bullet, Li Zhen read them carefully.

    She was always willing to learn.

    She refused to believe with these professional skills, her tool husband could still remain so calm and collected. Still so clear-headed at the crucial moment!

    After a morning of diligent study, Li Zhen had learned a lot. She got up, holding her waist as she limped out of the bedroom.

    In the living room, Lu Yanming sat cross-legged on the carpet, operating hisptop on the coffee table.

    He wore a casual, loose home outfit, looking rxed and noble.

    Li Zhen limped over and sat next to Lu Yanming, enduring the aches all over. "Mr. Lu, rested enough? Shall we continue?"

    Li Zhen was going all out!

    Lu Yanming nced at her, puzzled by her sudden enthusiasm. "Didn''t you say the field needed a break?"

    "It''s rested enough!" Li Zhen was sore even while sitting so she lightly leaned against him, looking up devotedly. "It''s rested enough, shall we try again?"

    She looked like she depended on himpletely, body and soul.

    Lu Yanming''s heart beat slowly as he leaned down to kiss her lips, rejecting unhurriedly, "No, even if you''re eager, you have to wait until tomorrow."

    He had lost control a littlest night. She probably couldn''t take it if they went again today.

 Chapter 42: Miss Me Again

    <h4>Chapter 42</h4>

    "Tomorrow won''t work!" Li Zhen had just learned so many techniques and needed to put them into practice to see if they were effective.

    Practice was necessary to gain true understanding, and Li Zhen was eager to apply them immediately and see the results.

    It would be best if she could seed in one go today, then she could finally be free from this predicament with Lu Yanming.

    Thinking about the content she had just seen online, Li Zhen did some mental preparation and then raised her hand to pull down her cor, shifting from her previous posture leaning against Lu Yanming to being almost entirely nestled in his embrace.

    Lu Yanming stiffened for a moment.

    He slightly lowered his head, and Li Zhen''s petite figurepletely melded into his embrace, with a faint fragrance lingering around him. In his line of sight, there was also her partially revealed seductive charm.

    So this was what they called a warm and fragrant jade in one''s arms.

    Lu Yanming''s gaze darkened slightly, and the sexy Adam''s apple in his throat rolled subtly.

    "Sit properly." He straightened Li Zhen up and got up to fetch a ss of cold water from the water dispenser, not looking back. He tilted his head back and drank it in one gulp.

    Li Zhen could hardly believe it. She had taken the initiative like this, yet Lu Yanming remained unfazed.

    Lu Yanming didn''t sit back down but went to the kitchen.

    Li Zhen quickly got up and followed him.

    In the kitchen, Lu Yanming put on an apron, and two soft little hands reached behind him to tie the apron strings.

    "Let me do it, President Lu," Li Zhen said briskly as she tied it. "I can''t cook, so I can only assist you."

    With the apron securely tied, Lu Yanming took out the ingredients from the refrigerator.

    Li Zhen rarely cooked and wasn''t very familiar with the appearance of these ingredients. She only recognized the abalone and pointed to another dark, finely chopped item, asking, "President Lu, what is this dark stuff? It looks like rice but not ck rice."

    "This is ck wild rice. It''s different from ordinary rice; it''s a seed of a grass," Lu Yanming exined as he rinsed the ck wild rice.

    His fingers were fair, strong, and long. The knuckles were prominent, and the lines were smooth as he rinsed the ck wild rice, creating a fascinating contrast between ck and white, exuding a cold intensity and an aura of restraint.

    Li Zhen had to admit that she was a bit envious of Lu Yanming''s hands, which could rival a hand model.

    Absolutely beautiful!

    A rare sight in the world!

    This pair of almost hand-model-like hands rinsed the ck wild rice, and the sound of water echoed in their movements.

    Suddenly, Li Zhen remembered his hands fromst night... that familiar sound...

    Stop thinking about it!

    A faint blush crept up on Li Zhen''s ears, and she quickly shifted her focus. "No wonder it''s grayish-ck; it looks quite nutritious."

    "Yes, ck wild rice is more nourishing," Lu Yanming replied casually.

    "Nourishing?" Li Zhen nodded thoughtfully. "President Lu, you expended a lot of energyst night, so it''s good to nourish yourself."

    Take care of your body, be in the best shape, and provide excellent genes.

    Lu Yanming paused in his actions, raised his eyes to look at her, and said, "You want me to replenish again? I don''t recall it being only five secondsst night."

    Li Zhen froze.

    She shouldn''t have brought up this topic. The joke about the five seconds couldn''t be let go.

    Li Zhen awkwardly smiled and didn''t respond. Instead, she asked, "What''s the name of this dish?"

    "Stewed Abalone with ck Wild Rice."

    "It sounds quiteplicated."

    "Fortunately, the ck wild rice is soaked for half an hour and then steamed until it blooms. It is cooked together with red beans, and fresh papaya is added, along with chicken broth..."

    Li Zhen''s mind began to blur as Lu Yanming patiently exined the details.

    "Mr. Lu, were you a chef before joining Honghai?" Li Zhen asked.

    "Li Zhen..."

    "What''s wrong?" Li Zhen was taken aback. She was just joking, and now he seemed upset?

    Lu Yanming sighed softly, "Don''t get so close to me, don''t whisper in my ear, and don''t grab onto my belt."

    Li Zhen looked down and only then noticed their proximity. Her ears turned red in an instant.

    When she was talking to Lu Yanming earlier, she couldn''t help but get closer and closer to him. Feeling tired from standing, she casually grabbed onto something for support, but she didn''t expect to grab onto his belt. The two of them were just inches apart, and her breath was right by his ear.

    Li Zhen quickly stepped back two steps, creating some distance between them.

    Lu Yanming continued his work, cing the ck wild rice in the steamer and preparing the abalone¡ªremoving the innards, meticulously cleaning the abalone, and making cross-hatch patterns on it. He then tidied up the other ingredients before taking off his apron.

    He turned to look at her. "It''s not just your ears that are sensitive."

    Li Zhen''s mind exploded.

    Lu Yanming''s tone and gaze made her instantly aware of the invasive danger.

    "Since you insist on being in the kitchen..." In the next second, Lu Yanming''s presence suddenly closed in on her. "Then I''ll give it a try."

    Lu Yanming pressed her against the wall, lifted her chin, and kissed her lips.

    Li Zhen wanted to, but not in the kitchen!

    Just at that moment...

    Li Zhen''s phone suddenly rang.

    Blushing, she quickly pushed Lu Yanming away. "Wait, Mr. Lu, wait for me to take this call!"

    She pressed the answer button, and the voice on the other end was unexpected.

    "Li Zhen..." Dong Wanwan''s polite voice came through the phone. "Do you remember the other two roommates in our dormitory? We''re nning to meet for afternoon tea. Do you want to join us?"

    Dong Wanwan''s change in attitude was too drastic, and Li Zhen couldn''t react for a moment.

    That wasn''t just an invitation for afternoon tea; it was probably a "Hongmen Banquet."

    "Sorry, I''m busy." Li Zhen replied without hesitation, without even considering it.

    She nced at Lu Yanming, who was staring at her. His gaze was dominant, giving her the feeling of a lion leisurely waiting for its prey.

    She awkwardly turned to the side.

    Dong Wanwan said, "I know you and Sheng Ge haven''t had a child yet. We''re going to talk about preparing for pregnancy today. You shoulde and listen."

    Preparing for pregnancy?

    She felt a little tempted.

    If it were someone else''s invitation, she would have epted.

    "Sorry, I''m busy." Li Zhen repeated the same words, disying her impatience clearly.

    On the other end of the phone, Dong Wanwan''s tone turned colder. "Li Zhen, I was originally nning to send the diamond watch for further testing in a few ces. If youe and have afternoon tea with us, I won''t pursue the matter any further."

    Dong Wanwan''s concession was not insignificant. Li Zhen felt there was something fishy about it. She had originally wanted to send the watch for testing in a few more ces.

    Li Zhen raised her delicate eyebrows slightly and said, "Alright then, send me the address."

    The ups and downs of the diamond watch matter, it would be great to resolve it once and for all.

    Li Zhen packed her things and got ready to leave.

    Lu Yanming leaned against the door and asked, "When will you be back?"

    "Just for afternoon tea, it won''t take long." Li Zhen picked up her bag and opened the door. "Mr. Lu, please wait for me."

    Lu Yanming chuckled helplessly.

    He seemed more like a submissive wife, waiting at home to be favored by her husband when he had some free time.

 Chapter 43: The Weasel and the Chicken

    <h4>Chapter 43</h4>

    Li Zhen got into a taxi, afraid that Lu Yanming would say he had to wait until tomorrow again, she sent him a message, "President Lu, are you going out this weekend? If you go out, remember toe back early."

    She added a cute emoji of Daji.

    Lu Yanming: "Not today."

    Li Zhen''s eyebrows drooped: "But you were just in the kitchen..."

    Lu Yanming: "Daji is too flirty, I couldn''t resist."

    Li Zhen''s ears turned slightly red.

    Never mind, since he couldn''t resist just now, he won''t be able to resist tonight either!

    -

    At home, Zhou Chaowen watched Dong Wanwan putting on makeup andined: "What big event are you attending today that you''ve been putting on makeup for two hours?"

    "Nothing much, just a college roommate reunion."

    "Xu Shan and Yi Renran?"

    Dong Wanwan often met up with those two, and Zhou Chaowen had remembered their names.

    Dong Wanwan: "There''s also Li Zhen today."

    "Li Zhen?" Zhou Chaowen''szy body sat up straight, unnaturally scratching his nose, "Why is sheing today?"

    "We nned to get together, she was free so she came." Dong Wanwan said, ncing back at Zhou Chaowen, her voice coquettish, "Dear, where do you think the money Yu Sheng shedst night came from?"

    "It''s none of your business, why ask so much?"

    "I''m just curious..." Dong Wanwan clung to his arm acting spoiled.

    Zhou Chaowen was pestered without a way out, he could only say: "Yu Sheng is the marketing director at Macro Ocean, his ie is not low."

    "How high could it be? 1 million or 2 million a year? He would have to not eat or drink for a whole year to be able to save 2 million. I really can''t figure out how Yu Sheng agreed to pay the money so readily yesterday."

    Zhou Chaowen nced at her, "How could we guess what''s going on with Yu Sheng?"

    "Dear, do you think Yu Sheng might have embezzled public funds yesterday?"

    "Nonsense! How could that be possible!"

    "Why not? Haven''t there been plenty of such news reports?" Dong Wanwan had finished her makeup and applied a thickyer of lipstick as the final touch.

    Strangely, yesterday many reporters had interviewed Li Zhen and Yu Sheng, but today there was not a single report about them on any news outlet.

    Spending 2 million at a charity auction to buy a little brooch.

    Usually, this kind of local news would have exploded.

    Dong Wanwan had already deleted the social media post she made yesterday when Yu Sheng spent 2 million to buy the brooch. Calling Li Zhen over today was to probe her bottom.

    Dong Wanwan tidied up and arrived at the agreed location half an hour early. A taxi pulled up in front and Li Zhen got out.

    Dong Wanwan hurried up and intimately looped her arm around hers, "You finally made it. We''ve always wanted to get together with you before but couldn''t get in touch."

    Li Zhen gave a little pout and just smiled faintly at her. Dong Wanwan was like a wily fox paying New Year''s respects to a chicken, she definitely didn''t have good intentions.

    Li Zhen followed Dong Wanwan inside, through the lobby to a small outdoor terrace. The terrace had just a few exquisite little European-style tables, and next to the tables were two people familiar to Li Zhen.

    Her other two college roommates, Xu Shan and Yi Renran.

    Hearing the sound, they both looked over at the same time.

    Dong Wanwan had Li Zhen sit down, "The four of us sisters have finally gotten together today."

    Xu Shan and Yi Renran exchanged nces, still not really understanding why Dong Wanwan had brought Li Zhen. Wasn''t Dong Wanwan the one who disliked Li Zhen the most?

    Among the three, Dong Wanwan had married the best and was doing the best, now a minor celebrity. Since it was Dong Wanwan who brought Li Zhen, the other two naturally had to pretend to be polite and give her some face.

    But the pretense was very half-hearted.

    Xu Shan smiled, "Li Zhen, long time no see. What have you been busy withtely?"

    Li Zhen had no interest in idle chitchat with them. She went straight to the point, "Didn''t you say we were going to discuss preparing for pregnancy today? Let''s start."

    Saying that, she took out a pen and notebook from her bag.

    The other three were stunned.

    Dong Wanwan''s expression was barely holding. Li Zhen actually thought this was for real learning?

    The corner of Dong Wanwan''s mouth twitched as she forced herself to stay calm, "Yes, yes, I happen to be preparing for pregnancy recently, and so is Xu Shan. We''re getting together to have a good discussion."

    Yi Renran couldn''t help but roll her eyes. The three of them were just chatting about luxury goods and essories before Li Zhen arrived. Now that Li Zhen was here, they were discussing preparing for pregnancy?

    Li Zhen opened her pen and held it ready in her hand, looking up at Dong Wanwan. She asked solemnly, "Okay, let''s start the discussion then. Dong Wanwan, you go first."

    Just like a teacher in ss before.

    Dong Wanwan gritted her teeth behind a forced smile, "Okay, I''ll kick things off..."

    The words had just left her mouth when Dong Wanwan froze in shock. Why was she actually taking this seriously like a ss, even blurting out an idiom?

    She coughed twice, "Sisters, my mother-inw is frantically pushing me to have a baby, I can''t take the pressure anymore."

    Li Zhen''s note-taking hand paused, "Are you scolding Chaowen, or referring to his mother?"

    Dong Wanwan: "......"

    Dong Wanwan: "My mother-inw!"

    Li Zhen: "Okay, please continue."

    Xu Shan stared wide-eyed, "Wanwan, you just won some awards, having a baby now would be too detrimental to your career."

    "Exactly." Yi Renran chimed in with a nod.

    "What can I do? My mother-inw wants us to have a baby, I can''t refuse." Bringing up this matter really gave Dong Wanwan a headache, "And the key isn''t me, it''s Chaowen. He doesn''t want to himself, he always takes measures every time, even if I want to I can''t because I don''t reproduce asexually. I need him."

    This trip wasn''t a waste!

    Although not exactly the same, the situation was identical.

    Li Zhen asked anxiously, "So what should be done?"

    Dong Wanwan looked speechlessly at Li Zhen''s thirst for knowledge. "Does Yu Sheng do the same?"

    Li Zhen rubbed her nose and mumbled, "Mm."

    "That''s simple." Xu Shan smiled smugly, acting like someone experienced, "Give them something to boost their mood, when they''re in the mood during the critical moment, how could they remember anything else?"

    Slipping drugs?

    The image of Lu Yanming dragging her to the police station door instantly came to Li Zhen''s mind.

    If she dared drug him, she estimated the rest of her life would be spent singing ''Tears on the Iron Bars'' in prison.

    "No, no." Dong Wanwan shook her head, "If my mother-inw found out, I don''t know what kind of scene she would make."

    Dong Wanwan didn''t dare take that risk.

    Marrying into the Zhou family wasn''t easy, ever since marrying Zhou Chaowen she had developed a conditioned fear of her mother-inw.

    And Zhou Chaowen was especially filial, listening to his mother very much.

    "You''re right, that method won''t work. Let''s think of another." Li Zhen was extremely proactive, eyes bright, full of expectation.

    Yi Renran was surprised that the previously aloof Li Zhen would now shamelessly ask them for advice.

    And on this kind of matter?

    Yi Renran cleared her throat, "For this, you should be asking me."

 Chapter 44: Sheâ€™s a Winner

    <h4>Chapter 44</h4>

    Li Zhen: "You''re the senior here, aren''t you!"

    Yi RenRan had a slender figure, showing no signs of being an experienced mother. Li Zhen was surprised, "You''ve had a child already?"

    Xu Shan chimed in from the side, "Right after RenRan graduated, she secretly had a child with her sponsor without telling him. She relies on the 50,000 yuan in child support she gets from that kid every month."

    "I see..." Li Zhen didn''t expect RenRan''s life to be so dramatic, but it was perfect for answering her questions. "How did you do it?"

    "It''s simple. When the man doesn''t want it, lower his guard first and get the condoms ready for him..."

    Dong Wanwan interrupted, "Getting condoms ready defeats the purpose of getting pregnant!"

    "You dummy, of course you poke some holes in them first! Use a decoy." Li Zhen suddenly understood RenRan''s clever idea.

    She really was inexperienced. RenRan''s idea was great. Li Zhen immediately closed her notebook, "Thanks everyone, I have to get going. Let''s not meet up casually from now on."

    She wouldn''te even if they asked her to in the future.

    Li Zhen was in an extremely happy mood. All she wanted to do now was rush to the pharmacy and buy a box of condoms.

    Dong Wanwan''s brows furrowed. She hadn''t even asked a thing about Li Zhen yet. "Li Zhen, wait. We''ve only been here a few minutes, don''t rush off so quickly."

    Of course she had to leave. Why would she stay here until New Year? Li Zhenpletely ignored Dong Wanwan, put her notebook in her bag, and stood up.

    Dong Wanwan said loudly, "That diamond watch..."

    Li Zhen sat right back down and looked up at the sky. "It''s still early, let''s chat some more."

    Dong Wanwan resentfully gritted her teeth. That 320,000 yuan diamond watch only made Li Zhen stay a little longer.

    Dong Wanwan was afraid Li Zhen would make a fuss and leave again, so she calmed herself down and casually asked, "Oh right, the brooch Yu Sheng bought you yesterday was so generous. Your family must have quite a bit saved up?"

    Xu Shan and Yi RenRan were both confused. What brooch?

    Li Zhen immediately understood in her heart that Dong Wanwan was trying to find out about Yu Sheng''s situation.

    Li Zhen took a sip of her fruit tea and said lightly, "Can''t say we have a lot, can''t say we have a little. If you ask how much, well, however much is about right."

    Dong Wanwan: ...What kind of nonsense is this!

    "So that money yesterday was really your family''s own money?" Dong Wanwan cut to the chase and asked directly.

    "It''s not our family''s money." Li Zhen told the truth. That was Yu Sheng''s own money. She and Yu Sheng were not a family anymore.

    Hearing it wasn''t their family money, Dong Wanwan was delighted. It seemed there was something fishy about the money after all. Maybe it was money Yu Sheng had embezzled privately, or misappropriated public funds.

    To confirm her assumptions, Dong Wanwan asked again, "I still don''t know where you live. I saw you take a taxi here today. If you need a ride hometer, I can give you one?"

    Li Zhen: "No need. I live in Sunshine Garden. It''s not far from here."

    "Whichplex is Sunshine Garden? Where is it?" Dong Wanwan had never heard of it.

    Just as Li Zhen finished speaking, Yi RenRan burst outughing, "Sunshine Garden? I know that ce. It''s that old worn down housing. Wanwan, you live in luxury mansions, of course you don''t know it."

    Realizing it was old and shabby housing, Dong Wanwan immediately understood. Her guesses were spot on - Yu Sheng and Li Zhen really weren''t doing so well now.

    The 2 million yuan from yesterday was probably just Yu Sheng scraping together some public funds to keep up appearances. He was truly foolish, poor, and dying to keep face.

    RenRan''s mocking tone annoyed Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen stared straight at her and asked with an upturned red lip, "Then I''m curious, someone who does nothing but spread her legs for her sponsor''s money, where do you live?"

    Li Zhen''s words immediately ignited RenRan''s anger. "You b*tch, how dare you say that about me? Don''t think you''re so innocent yourself. Every male ssmate has your college nude photos saved on their phones!"

    Li Zhen closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and endured the urge to hit someone. She grabbed the fruit tea in front of her and fiercely sshed it at RenRan, "None of your damn business who has what saved!"

    "Ah!" RenRan let out a shriek as her eye shadow and lipstick were smeared all over her face, making her look like a colorful palette.

    Xu Shan gasped in shock, "Li Zhen, you''re still so violent, just like in college!"

    RenRan yelled furiously, "Li Zhen, you''re nothing but a shrew!"

    "Yes, today I''m a crude, violent shrew! I''ll ssh anyone who pisses me off. Sshing drinks is nothing. I''ll flip this table over today too!" She was in a bad mood and didn''t want any of the three people here to feel good!

    As Li Zhen spoke, she grabbed the edges of the table with both hands and pulled hard...

    The other three quickly stood up in fright.

    But the table didn''t budge...

    It remained firmly in ce.

    Dong Wanwan: ...

    Xu Shan: ...

    Yi RenRan: ...

    All three felt embarrassed for Li Zhen. The atmosphere had built up to this point, yet the table didn''t even flip.

    RenRan sneered coldly, "Li Zhen, you..."

    Before RenRan could finish, arge male hand suddenly gripped the edge of the table.

    With a loud bang, the table instantly flipped over and crashed to the ground, sending tea cups flying everywhere.

    The tablended just an inch away from RenRan. Her face turned deathly pale as she froze in ce.

    The loud noise gave the other tables on the terrace a fright.

    Dong Wanwan looked up at the man and stammered, "Brother Yu."

    Li Zhen turned around, her gaze meeting Yu Sheng''s clear yet cold eyes.

    "You should have left the getting physical to me," Yu Sheng said quietly as he looked at Li Zhen, his eyes deep and profound.

    The three women stared at Yu Sheng in shock.

    With his tall nose and dark eyes, Yu Sheng''s features were still as wless as in college, exuding an air of maturity, nobility andposure.

    The campus heartthrob from back then was still doting on the inconspicuous Li Zhen after so many years.

    Back in college, every girl had secretly crushed on the dazzling Yu Sheng.

    The three women here were no exception. Their jealousy grew wildly like weeds.

    Especially Dong Wanwan.

    Seeing Yu Sheng casually swipe 10 million yesterday made her eager to probe Li Zhen. She wanted to confirm that Li Zhen was living better than them.

    It would make up for the sense of disparity she felt in college for not catching Yu Sheng.

    But now, seeing Yu Sheng still so attentive and caring toward Li Zhen, Dong Wanwan felt a surge of sourness in her heart that she couldn''t suppress.

    "Wanwan, you came out for afternoon tea and ended up like this?" Zhou Chaowen emerged from behind Yu Sheng.

    "Dear..." Dong Wanwan''s sour heart instantly revived as she snuggled into Zhou Chaowen''s arms.

    She was the real winner here. She had a rich husband, luxury cars, mansions, limited edition bags, servants at home, she was the prestigious Mrs. Zhou, the adored little socialite outside.

    She was the winner!

    Not Li Zhen!

    Dong Wanwan chanted this in her heart.

 Chapter 45: Hot and Strong

    <h4>Chapter 45</h4>

    "I heard you say that you were having afternoon tea together, so I specially brought Sheng over. But when we arrived, I saw you two like that," Zhou Chaowen said as he drove his Land Rover. When the traffic light turned red, he nced at Dong Wanwan in the passenger seat. "Was that a tea party you were having, or a martial arts contest?"

    Dong Wanwan spoke softly, "Dear, it wasn''t my fault. It was Yisui who was rude today, right Li Zhen?"

    Li Zhen and Yu Sheng sat in the back seat. The space wasrge but she still felt cramped. She didn''t want to talk more about what had just happened, so she ignored Dong Wanwan''s words.

    Yu Sheng had a strong presence. His suit was crisp and his brows stern. "What did she say?"

    Dong Wanwan pretended to hem and haw. "She just...just mentioned Li Zhen''s nude photos..."

    Before Dong Wanwan could finish speaking, Zhou Chaowen said in a low voice, "How could you call those nude photos!"

    "I didn''t say it, everyone calls them that," Dong Wanwan nced at the back through the rearview mirror.

    But Li Zhen lookedpletely natural, without any hint of embarrassment or shame.

    Dong Wanwan sneered inwardly. Li Zhen was still shameless like she had been in college. With those kinds of photos spread everywhere, she acted like nothing had happened.

    Yu Sheng''s gaze was heavy, but he didn''t say anything more.

    Zhou Chaowen had picked up Yu Sheng from Jinlu Garden, and was also dropping them off there.

    After Yu Sheng and Li Zhen got out of the car, Dong Wanwan asked in a low voice, "Dear, does Sheng live in thispound?"

    "I don''t know. Today he just told me to pick him up here. What''s the matter?"

    "Oh, nothing. I was just asking," Dong Wanwan didn''t continue questioning. How could they possibly live here? She had heard Li Zhen say with her own mouth that they lived in Sunshine Garden.

    At the entrance to thepound, Yu Sheng said to Li Zhen, "Wait for me. I''ll go get my car from the garage and then take you home."

    Li Zhen opened her ride-hailing app. "No need. I''ll just take a taxi home."

    Yu Sheng paused in his steps and turned back to look at her.

    Li Zhen kept her head lowered as she smoothly slid her phone screen, her gaze calm, as if she hadn''t been affected at all by what Dong Wanwan had said earlier.

    But he knew she was upset.

    Yu Sheng walked over to her. "It''s all in the past now."

    Li Zhen''s fingers stiffened slightly and curled in unconsciously. A teardropnded on her phone screen with a "plop."

    Yu Sheng felt a sudden tightness in his chest. Tender feelings gripped his heart. He lifted a hand and lightly rested Li Zhen''s head on his shoulder.

    But Li Zhen pushed him away. "I''m fine."

    The rideshare car arrived and Li Zhen got in and left.

    Yu Sheng watched her leave.

    He had vivid memories of that day seven years ago.

    There was a sizableke at University A that was fed by a small river from the mountains behind campus.

    The day before freshman orientation, when new students were registering, after Yu Sheng had finished all the procedures, he returned to his dorm to meet his new roommate. Before they could get acquainted, Zhou Chaowen and the others suddenly excitedly pulled him to the back hills, saying someone was going to jump into the river there.

    When Yu Sheng arrived at the riverbank in the back hills, there was already a sea of people there.

    On the high bridge stood a petite girl. The people around her chatted noisily, saying she had been dumped by her boyfriend and was going to jump into the river.

    "If you''re gonna jump, then jump. Don''t waste everyone''s time."

    "Just putting on a show to tease us."

    "It''s obviously just an act. Let it go, everyone."

    Many people thought the girl was putting on a show for her boyfriend to win him back. They whistled and jeered.

    The girl nced over the crowd, her eyes red and swollen, tears long dried up. "Fine, I see he''s noting. Help me tell him, I wish that worthless couple a childless, impoverished, miserable life. When I''m dead, my ghost will haunt them!"

    The onlooking crowd couldn''t help but shudder at the girl''s chilling words.

    Right after she finished speaking, she jumped with a "ssh" and huge sshes rose from the river.

    "She jumped, she really jumped!"

    "Quick, save her!"

    "The current is too strong, jumping in is certain death. Who would dare rescue her?"

    The river wasn''t wide, but the water rushed down powerfully from high up in the mountains, extremely turbulent. And after years of erosion, the riverbed was deep and murky.

    Jumping in was practically suicidal. Even strong swimmers would have to think twice.

    Let alone these inexperienced college students.

    Faced with life and death, everyone was afraid.

    Amidst the panicked shouts, a white figure suddenly leapt from the riverside, immediately followed by a ssh into the water.

    "Someone jumped in to rescue her!"

    "It''s a girl, still wearing a white dress!"

    "My god, she has a death wish?"

    Everyone''s hearts jumped to their throats. In the turbulent river they instantly lost sight of the two people.

    Just as everyone thought the two were doomed, the white dress surfaced in the water. Right after, the girl who had jumped in held the suicidal girl with one arm as she struggled toward shore.

    The crowd quickly stretched their hands to the bank to grab the suicidal girl.

    When they thought of the other girl, she had lost all her strength and was swept away downstream by the current in an instant.

    It was over.

    She wouldn''t make it.

    Everyone thought so.

    In that moment, Yu Sheng''s heart leapt to his throat. For an instant, he had the urge to jump in and save her.

    But the river was too rapid. And he still had the massive Yu family behind him. He couldn''t risk it all for a stranger.

    So he watched helplessly as another tall man jumped into the water.

    They were too far downstream for anyone to clearly see who the man was. They could only see he moved nimbly. After jumping in, he swiftly swam toward Li Zhen and grabbed her. The two were carried downstream together.

    Later when people searched downstream, they only found Li Zhen on the bank. She was covered in a university jacket, hiding her bare body.

    The news that Li Zhen had rescued someone spread through the school forums that day, and hundreds of people discussed it.

    But when the photos of her in underwear were posted to the forums, tens of thousands of people downloaded andmented.

    The 18 and 19 year old students were all bundled up in their heavy uniforms, hiding their bodies. Li Zhen''s photos looked simply indecent at the time, practically no different from nudes.

    Yu Sheng thought this girl probably wouldn''t be able to hold her head high for her entire college career. She would likely spend her youth in self-loathing.

    But he didn''t expect this girl to stop him at the freshman convocation the next day, in front of all the new students, smiling brightly. "School prince, I''m Li Zhen. Nice to meet you."

    At the time, he thought that someone could actually live life with such passion and fortitude.

 Chapter 46: Itâ€™s useless for those who use it to strike.

    <h4>Chapter 46</h4>

    At first, Yu Sheng didn''t know that Li Zhen wasn''tpletely indifferent.

    She erected a hard armor around herself, not letting this world hurt her one bit, but her heart beneath the armor was soft.

    Yi E Sheng? Yu Sheng recalled, that chatterbox of a woman, her name seemed to be this.

    When Li Zhen returned home, she had alreadypletely collected herself.

    No one was in the living room, only hearing soundsing from the bathroom.

    She went to the bathroom and saw Lu Yanming wearing a casual long-sleeved shirt, made of cotton and linen, not formal but very fitting for his gentle temperament.

    Lu Yanming had his sleeves rolled up to his elbows, fiddling with the faucet.

    Lu Yanming didn''t even lift his head, his hands kept working, "You''re back? How was the afternoon tea?"

    Li Zhen was a little embarrassed, his tone didn''t sound very good, as ifining.

    So she obediently and cleverly said: "I didn''t even drink two sips before it got spilled, didn''t get to taste it at all, not one hundredth as good as the culinary arts of Chef Lu at home."

    "Spilled it? Got into an argument with someone?" Lu Yanming looked up at her.

    "Mm." Li Zhen''s tone was low.

    "Did you win or lose?"

    "Huh?"

    "I asked if you won or lost?"

    Li Zhen heard clearly, just surprised at what he was concerned about.

    Wouldn''t ordinary people be more likely to ask about the reason for the argument?

    "Don''t know, didn''t argue long enough to determine a winner and loser, because I can''t flip tables, so the argument stopped abruptly." Li Zhen was still a little hung up about it now.

    Although in the end Yu Sheng was the one who flipped her table, since she didn''t do it herself, she regretted aftering home that she hadn''t performed well.

    If she knew earlier she should have flipped chairs instead of the table.

    "Your arm strength iscking, you''ll have to practice more." Lu Yanming pictured it in his mind for a moment, couldn''t quite imagine Li Zhen flipping a table.

    "Sounds good, teach me then." Li Zhen said casually.

    "I don''t dare take you on as a student, your temper needs work." The faucet was just about fixed, Lu Yanming stood up straight and instructed, "Turn on the main valve for the water."

    "Okay."

    Li Zhen had lived alone for a long time before, she was very familiar with the water and electricity meters, she went straight to the main valve and turned it on, then came back.

    The scene she returned to made her freeze in surprise.

    Water was sshing all over the kitchen.

    The faucet wasn''t fixed at all, water was spurting out and drenched Lu Yanming.

    Lu Yanming used a towel to hold down the faucet, but it didn''t stop the water at all, "Enjoying the show? Just standing there watching the fun?"

    Li Zhen had never seen Lu Yanming in such a flustered state before, she couldn''t help let out augh.

    "Here Ie, let me help!" Li Zhen hurriedly grabbed another towel to help him hold down the faucet.

    Lu Yanming nced at her sideways, a helpless smile at the corner of his lips, "Rather than suffer with me, I''d prefer you go turn off the main valve for the faucet."

    Li Zhen pped her forehead, "Oh right, I''ll go turn off the main valve."

    After Li Zhen turned off the main valve and came back to the bathroom again.

    "This faucet ispletely broken, can''t be fixed, needs recing." Lu Yanming used a clean towel to dry his hair.

    Lu Yanming was drenched all over, he casually took off his shirt with one hand and threw it in the nearbyundry hamper, the contours and lines of his muscr physique instantly in clear view.

    His solid chest.

    The streamlined, lean ridges of his abs.

    The distinct, powerful Adonis lines.

    Naturally undting with his movements drying his hair.

    Damn, Li Zhen hurriedly averted her eyes to the ceiling, no peeping, "I''ll go find a repairman toe fix it, you don''t need to deal with it."

    Lu Yanming: "No need, Fei Chao is sending people to handle it."

    Too awkward, find something to do.

    Li Zhen thought for a moment, then took the towel from Lu Yanming''s hands, "Let me help dry you."

    At least show some small care for her hardworking handyman husband.

    She strenuously tiptoed, drying his hair for him, keeping her eyes properly fixed on the top of his head.

    Lu Yanming lowered his head, his gaze growing deeper by the second.

    The earlier sshing had also soaked her clothes, clinging tightly to her body, the underwire bing stark and clear, seeming to dutifully offer itself up to his mouth as she tiptoed.

    Lu Yanming felt his blood rush, he shifted his eyes back and took two steps back, casually taking the towel back, "I''ll do it myself."

    "Don''t be shy, President Lu." Li Zhen stubbornly grabbed it back.

    She moved even closer to him, by an inch.

    Lu Yanming''s throat tightened.

    Li Zhen stretched awkwardly, trying even harder to tiptoe, but in that instant, she was suddenly grabbed at the slender waist by Lu Yanming.

    Her whole body was lifted up in one motion, and ced on the cold countertop.

    Lu Yanming: "Li Zhen, could you truly be a reincarnation of Daji..."

    "President Lu..." Li Zhen''s cry of rm hadn''t even left her throat before her mouth was firmly sealed by an ardent kiss.

    Li Zhen tilted her head back to receive it, the line of her slender neck taut and streamlined, her waist tightly encircled, pressed close against Lu Yanming.

    Both their clothes werepletely soaked through, clinging together, their body temperature and sensation of skin contact swiftly transmitted.

    Lu Yanming moved his lips from hers, kissing her taut neck, she helplessly tilted her head back, her whole body seemingly a tightened bow.

    Li Zhen''splexion had already reddened to the point it looked nearly scalded, her neck also tinged with a faint flush of pink.

    Speaking in a voice already gone soft as water, shyly, "President Lu, gently, don''t leave any marks."

    "Hm?" Lu Yanming didn''t stop his motions, words mumbled indistinctly against her skin.

    Li Zhen: "What if someone finds out I''m with you..."

    "So what if they find out?" Lu Yanming suddenly lifted his head, his clear eyes dark.

    He seldom had this expression, it frightened Li Zhen into giving a slight tremble.

    She instantly felt wronged, "You''re thepany''s Vice President, it would be a huge loss if you got fired, I''m just kindly reminding you, yet you''re angry with me instead."

    At this time Li Zhen''splexion was as fiery red as if burned, her neck also tinged with a shallow pink.

    Speaking aggrievedly, her soft voice seemed to hook into him.

    Lu Yanming''s heart softened, he lifted her chin to gaze at her,promising, "Alright, I understand, I won''t leave any marks."

    After speaking, he lowered his head to deeply kiss her once more.

    This kiss was gentle and lingering, going from light to deep, then deep to light again, entangling her over and over.

    Li Zhen''s legs started going soft, even her breathing forgotten, only knowing she was forced to ept it,pletely unclear how to respond, her soft little hands instinctively pushing against his chest, hard as iron.

    Lu Yanming flipped up her skirt.

    Li Zhen was sharply jolted alert, "Wait."

    Lu Yanming didn''t listen, already intrusively visiting.

    Li Zhen gasped, "Can''t do that."

    Her voice had just fallen when she instantly pushed him away and swiftly fled the bathroom, mming the door shut with a "bang", her actions smooth and practiced.

    Li Zhen: "President Lu, wait a moment, calm down first..."

    Lu Yanming: ......

    He lowered his head to look at himself,ughed wryly, "Now tell me, at this point, how can you expect a man to calm down?"

    Li Zhen felt a little unjustified, but she didn''t want to fruitlessly tussle, she had to buy that umbre first!

    Li Zhen solemnly said, "President Lu, we''re both adults, protection is indispensable, wait ten minutes for me, I''ll go out and buy umbres."

    Li Zhen didn''t know how Lu Yanming endured it, but he did restrain himself, even drying off his body and changing clothes, going out the door with her.

    On the road Li Zhen didn''t dare speak the whole time.

    She could feel the dense aura of gloom emanating from Lu Yanming''s body.

    Standing at the supermarket entrance, Li Zhen hesitated to go in, "President Lu, since it''s something you''ll use, why don''t you go pick."

    Lu Yanming just stared at her silently.

    The implication was very clear: I won''t go.

    Lu Yanming was tall with long legs, standing at the supermarket entrance attracted quite a few looks.

    Afraid of running into acquaintances among those nces, Li Zhen also didn''t dare linger talking to him there.

    "Alright then." Li Zhen knew he was still stewing.

    Not daring to provoke him further, if she really couldn''t mollify him, then even if she bought the umbre, the intended user might refuse to work.

    She walked into the supermarket, ncing around, and saw several rows of small umbres arranged right next to the checkout counter at the entrance.

    Is everyone this open about it?

    She''d never noticed before that this golden location at the entrance was given to it, seems the nightlife of Jincheng residents was quite rich.

    There was even a long line queued at the checkout counter.

    Li Zhen psyched herself up, it''ll be fine, since it''s right at the entrance, everyone must be used to sights like this.

    She took a deep breath, walked over, reached out her hand...

    "Li Zhen!"

    The familiar voice instantly made Li Zhen''s scalp tingle.

 Chapter 47: The Loss Is Too Obvious

    <h4>Chapter 47</h4>

    "Sister Song." Li Zhen stiffly turned her head.

    "You live nearby too? Buying a property?" Sister Song from the legal department walked over with a smile.

    The queue nced over at the two, then indifferently turned their heads back.

    "Yes, I live in thepany dormitory next door in Sunshine Garden." Li Zhen awkwardly pulled her hand back. Thest time she saw Sister Song was at the bar asking about resignation. Now they met again in this kind of situation.

    Sister Song stood next to her. "Why is your face red? Young girl, you''re just shy. Is this your first time out buying? What kind are you looking for? I''ll help you pick."

    "Don''t trouble yourself, Sister Song." Li Zhen''s scalp tingled awkwardly.

    Sister Song was decent to her at thepany, but not intimate enough to help pick out such private items.

    She quickly grabbed a box at random, keeping a calm face. "Sister Song, please take a look around first. I''ve picked what I need."

    "You got..." Sister Song stared at Li Zhen''s hand strangely. "That size..."

    Sister Song sighed to herself. A beauty like Li Zhen, yet dating a petite boyfriend. What a waste.

    Li Zhen followed Sister Song''s gaze. The "ultra-mini"bel practically leapt off the packaging.

    She had grabbed it without looking. She didn''t know these things had sizes.

    "Haha, wrong one." Li Zhenughed and switched for thergest size, toes curling in embarrassment the whole time.

    Sister Song looked away. "Oh dear, I didn''t see anything. I''ll go pick something. See youter."

    She took a few steps, then whispered in Li Zhen''s ear, "Get the right fit, or it might slip."

    So definitely don''t try too big.

    Li Zhen wanted to vanish from the. This was too awkward!

    She paid and left the supermarket sullenly, walking to Lu Yanming, standing ramrod straight in a corner.

    They walked home together. Only then did Li Zhen react. "Luckily you were in the corner. Sister Song was here too. Good thing she didn''t see you."

    Lu Yanming nced at her. "Who said she didn''t?"

    "She saw you?" Li Zhen''s heart leapt. "What did you talk about?"

    "Just a normal greeting. She asked what I was doing here."

    "What did you say?"

    "The truth. I was here with my wife."

    Li Zhen nearly choked. She was just helping him get a marriage certificate. How could he casually call her his wife?

    But she realized Sister Song had acted normally, meaning she hadn''t connected Li Zhen with Lu Yanming.

    Li Zhen rxed.

    At home, they found the door open, Fei Zhao standing in the bathroom doorway as workers changed the faucet.

    Li Zhen had thought Fei Zhao was Lu Yanming''s driver, butter learned he was his assistant.

    Strangely though, Fei Zhao didn''t seem like a corporate-assigned role since he was rarely at the office. Lu Yanming often called him to the house, so he must trust him. He wouldn''t gossip about them at work.

    "Assistant Fei, thanks for your hard work." Li Zhen greeted him naturally.

    "Ms. Li, no need to be polite. It''s my job." Fei Zhao replied professionally, ncing at the small bag in her hand.

    Li Zhen''s heart thumped. She quickly hid the bag behind her back.

    Lu Yanming was on hisputer in the living room. She went into his spare bedroom, locking the door before taking out a needle and pricking tiny holes in each condom, too small to notice.

    "All done!"

    She put them on the bedside table, visible and within easy reach.

    With her taskplete, Li Zhen returned to her room.

    A few minutester, Fei Zhao, very curious about the small house, casually wandered into the spare bedroom.

    Fei Zhao looked around and mumbled. "Such a tiny ce. Can the Young Master straighten his legs? How can he stand living here?"

    Suddenly Fei Zhao''s eyes lit up at the items on the bedside table.

    Fei Zhao was thrilled to know the Young Master was living with a woman.

    But seeing the condoms clearly was another matter entirely.

    It meant they had progressed to harmony!

    The Young Master was finally an adult!

    Finally able to experience the joys of the world!

    The eternally single Fei Zhao wept with joy.

    But then Fei Zhao realized something was wrong. The Young Master''s private doctor had said he likely couldn''t use normal sizes. The doctor had even custom-ordered the right sizes for the Young Master.

    There were boxes stocked in the trunk for when needed.

    While the worker changed the faucet, Fei Zhao dashed downstairs, grabbed a box, emptied the original package, and reced the contents with the custom ones.

    By the time the faucet was changed, it was nearly 10pm.

    Li Zhen had a nice shower and changed into a nightgown.

    In the living room, Lu Yanming sat on the carpet, looking at hisptop on the coffee table.

    Whenever he was home, Lu Yanming was either cooking or working on hisputer. The content was neither Chinese nor English, so she couldn''t understand it.

    She sat next to him. "Mr. Lu, how much longer will you be busy?"

    "Very busy. Go rest first." Lu Yanming nced at her, immediately seeing through her intentions. He tly refused, "I have important work. Really can''t today."

    He knewst night had been too intense. Yet today, he kept losing control around her.

    It shouldn''t happen, but he couldn''t help himself.

    Hearing his tone, like she was an annoying student disrupting his studies, Li Zhen could only murmur, "Okay, get back to work then... But you never work overtime, right?"

    "It''s not HaiHong work."

    "You have a side job too?"

    It wasmon for higher-ups to moonlight these days.

    Lu Yanming smiled. "If that''s how you see it, sure."

    "Don''t worry, I won''t tell anyone."

    "So I should thank you?" Lu Yanming amusedly nced at her, then his gaze instantly darkened.

    Li Zhen''s nightgown was sheer as a cicada''s wing, beautifully outlining her curves. Between the straps was acres of fair, creamy skin, marked fromst night.

    Her soft moans as he pressed her against the sink in the morning and held her on the bedst night flooded his mind.

    Her unguarded moments roused an overwhelming desire to possess her, to y with her.

    He used to think he was above base desires, but now...

    Lu Yanming chuckled ruefully and grabbed a cushion to hide his arousal.

    "Go rest. Talking to you distracts me."

    "Oh." Somewhat dejected, Li Zhen obediently started to get up.

    But her slender wrist was seized by Lu Yanming, yanking her off bnce. She fell into hisp, onto the soft cushion.

    "Unhappy?" Lu Yanming lifted his hand to gently caress her flushed lips. "I just worry you can''t handle it. Don''t overthink."

    He kissed her, from her lips to her neck and back to her earlobe.

    Unhurried and lingering.

    With utmost gentleness.

    "I understand, Mr. Lu." Li Zhen''s breath hitched as her heart pounded.

    Was heforting her? Seeing she was upset so he clearly told her?

    Her contract husband was so... considerate.

 Chapter 48: As long as You Know

    <h4>Chapter 48</h4>

    "I''m afraid you don''t know," Lu Yanming moved the pillow away.

    Li Zhen instantly dropped down a few inches and sat straight on hisp.

    Lu Yanming continued kissing her, his hoarse voice scorching hot and falling on her ears, "Can you feel that I want you?"

    Li Zhen''s face turnedpletely red, as if blood was about to drip down.

    Of course she could feel it.

    Li Zhen''s body trembled slightly.

    But the idea of getting pregnant defeated the shame and fear.

    She tentatively said, "Mr. Lu, since you want to as well, why don''t we..."

    "Not today," Lu Yanming sat up straight, holding Li Zhen by the waist, allowing her to easily sit on the sofa.

    The next second, he resumed his cold and noble appearance, lowered his head calmly looking at theputer, "Tomorrow."

    Lu Yanming spoke categorically, Li Zhen knew there was no chance today, "Oh, okay."

    He was a ruthless man, able to endure even when the arrow was on the string.

    Getting up and walking into the bedroom, Li Zhen was just about to lie down when her phone suddenly rang.

    Seeing the caller ID, Li Zhen didn''t want to answer, but thinking of the stock issue, she reluctantly tapped the answer button.

    "Your grandfather is hospitalized," Li Yinnan''s mature voice was a little anxious, and his words concise.

    "Send me the address," Li Zhen frowned.

    Li Zhen told Lu Yanming and immediately rushed to the hospital.

    When she arrived at the hospital, Old Master Li wasfortably lying in bed, swiping short videos on his phone, watching some old men and women livestream fishing.

    Li Yinnan and Li Yanran were sitting on the sofa next to the bed.

    "How did you suddenly faint when you were fine?" Li Zhen sat anxiously on the edge of the bed.

    "It''s nothing, it''s nothing," Old Master Li waved his hand.

    "He was squatting to weed, and stood up too quickly so he fell," Li Yinnan said sullenly next to him, "Your grandfather is old, the doctor said it''s amon minor problem for seniors."

    Li Zhen felt pained, "Grandpa, can''t you just take it easy? There are so many flowers on the balcony, 24 hours a day is not enough for you to be busy."

    Li Yanran yawnedzily next to her, not interested in the deep grandfather-granddaughter affection scene, and said tenderly, "Dad, since my sister is here, let''s go."

    Li Yinnan hesitated.

    Li Zhen looked at Li Yanran, "Go back, I don''t want to see you here either."

    Li Yanran''s slender eyebrows frowned, "Li Zhen, you..."

    "That''s enough, don''t say any more. Yinnan, take Yanran home, having Zhen here is enough," Old Master Li waved his hand.

    Li Yinnan did have a video conference to attend soon, so he had to rush back, "I''lle see you again tomorrow. The caregiver is outside, call him if you need anything."

    Old Master Li: "Okay, okay, stop nagging and go."

    After the two left, Li Zhen felt much morefortable, chatting casually with Old Master Li, making himugh loudly.

    After a while, there was a sudden knock at the door.

    Li Zhen nced sideways and saw Yu Sheng walking in carryingrge bags.

    Without thinking, it must be Li Yinnan who had notified him.

    Yu Sheng put down his things and walked to the bedside, "Grandpa, how are you feeling now?"

    "Nothing serious," Old Master Li was especially happy to see Yu Sheng, and quickly had Yu Sheng sit on the bed next to him.

    Li Zhen was squeezed to the side.

    The two chatted very enthusiastically.

    Li Zhen felt very ufortable on the side, afraid that Yu Sheng would say something wrong.

    Looking at the time, Yu Sheng had been there for half an hour already, she said to Yu Sheng, "It''s sote, you should go back."

    Yu Sheng looked up at her, "Then what about you?"

    "I''ll be with Grandpa tonight."

    Yu Sheng pondered for two seconds, got up, "Grandpa, I''ll go first then."

    Old Master Li knew Yu Sheng was always busy, so he didn''t keep him long.

    Li Zhen sent Yu Sheng out of the ward. Yu Sheng''s originally calm face instantly turned cold, "Grandpa is sick, I want to keep himpany more, why are you driving me away?"

    Yu Sheng was still wearing a neat suit, clearly rushed over straight from work, hadn''t even gone home yet.

    Considering that he was still decent to her family, Li Zhen didn''t speak as harshly as before, "You don''t have to do this for my family."

    Yu Sheng felt stifled in his chest, Li Zhen''s words again seemed to be keeping a distance between them.

    Remembering the unpleasantness of their previous two fights, Yu Sheng held back, "Tomorrow, Zhou Chao Wen and them want me to go see an exhibit together, be ready at seven tomorrow night, I''ll pick you up downstairs."

    "We''re divorced, why do you want me to apany you to see friends?"

    "You know we can''t let the elderly worry about the divorce. What about my friends, do you think they don''t care if they know?" Yu Sheng was starting to lose his temper. When Zhou Chao Wen invited him, he originally wanted to decline, but thinking he could spend more time with her and she might be happy, he agreed. But she was still acting like this.

    Li Zhen felt guilty, Zhou Chao Wen already knew.

    And Yu Sheng hadn''t told her beforehand that she needed to keep it from his friends...

    Besides, she had to hide it from her family to get the shares, his friends would find out sooner orter, what was there to hide?

    Li Zhen: "I''m not free, I''m not going."

    Yu Sheng''s face alternated between green and white.

    Behind the ward door, Old Master Li was shocked. He grabbed the door frame to barely stand steady.

    They''re divorced!

    The two were actually divorced!

    What madness had gotten into this girl to divorce Yu Sheng? Did the young couple have disagreements?

    Yu Sheng was such a good boy, good family, treated her well, also handsome, and very good to elders, a grandson-inw like this was hard to find even with antern, what was this girl thinking!

    Hearing Yu Sheng leave angrily, Old Master Li hurried back into bed.

    Li Zhen pushed the door open and came in, looking at the quilt, "Grandpa, how did your quilt get uncovered?"

    Old Master Li pretended to stay calm, "I just turned over."

    Li Zhen went over and tucked in the quilt corners for him properly.

    Old Master Li pondered for a bit, then cautiously and carefully said, "Zhen''er, you and little Yu are still getting along well recently, right?"

    Li Zhen''s actions halted, but only for one second before resuming naturally, "We''re fine, why are you suddenly asking me this?"

    "No reason, I was just thinking..." Old Master Li nced at her, "I''m ufortable staying in the hospital, I''ll go stay at your ce and recuperate for a couple days."

    Li Zhen suddenly looked up, "Huh?"

 Chapter 49: Want to live in Jinlu Garden

    <h4>Chapter 49</h4>

    Grandpa wanted to stay at Jinlu Park?

    That''s impossible!

    Li Zhen still had fresh memories of the crazy fit Old Master Li had thrownst time he stayed at Jinlu Park.

    "Grandpa, no... There''s been a few snakes that slithered into our house recently. We still don''t know where they''re hiding," Li Zhen pressed her lips together.

    "Snakes?"

    "Yes, grandpa, you know how Jinlu Park has too much greenery, snakes and bugs have always beenmon."

    "It''s fine, I''m not scared..."

    Li Zhen was startled, "Not scared? You used to be most afraid of snakes when you took me to the zoo."

    Old Master Li coughed and said, "You said it yourself, that was before. I''m not afraid now."

    Li Zhen: ...

    Li Zhen: "You''d give up the flowers you nted at home? You wouldn''t miss them?"

    "It''s fine, I can leave them with the steward." Old Master Li sighed softly and shook his head, "Zhen''er, could it be you find me a burden in my old age and don''t want me staying at your home?"

    "Of course not, grandpa. How could I find you a burden?" Li Zhen''s heart immediately softened.

    Grandpa wanted toe live here, if she kept resisting, he was bound to overthink.

    "Grandpa, let me step out to make a call." Li Zhen walked to the end of the hallway and called Yu Sheng.

    Yu Sheng picked up quickly, his voice cold and stern, "What is it?"

    He was driving. The echo in the bluetooth call indicated he was on speakerphone in the car.

    Li Zhen spoke weakly, "What time did you say we were going to the exhibit tomorrow?"

    There was no response from the other end of the call.

    Li Zhen panicked a little, "Yu Sheng?"

    "Weren''t you not going? Why are you asking about it now?"

    "I suddenly realized I''m not busy and will just be idle anyway, so I might as well go take a look."

    Yu Sheng gave a coldugh, "You want something from me?"

    Li Zhen was at a loss for words. Was he really that perceptive?

    She decided to get straight to the point, "My grandpa wants to stay at Jinlu Park for a few days. Is that okay?"

    "When you rejected me, you didn''t consider my feelings at all. Now that you want something from me, you''re suddenly obedient and charming."

    "If you don''t agree then forget it..."

    Yu Sheng interrupted her, "When is he moving in?"

    Li Zhen kept vigil by the hospital bed all night.

    The patient rooms were quite spacious and had two foldout beds for caregivers, so spending a night wasn''t too ufortable.

    Li Zhen got up early the next morning and saw grandpa still sleeping soundly. She first returned to Sunshine Garden to tidy up and left a note for Lu Yanyan before heading to Jinlu Park to speak with Wu Ma. She then returned to the hospital to pick up grandpa.

    The room grandpa stayed in this time was the same one as before. After settling in, Li Zhen took him to go fishing by theke in the backyard.

    Wu Ma brought over a fruit tter and tea, cing them on the small table.

    The breeze off theke was refreshing, and Li Zhen''s mood instantly rxed as well.

    "Zhen''er, I''ve kept you all day on the weekend. I hope I didn''t interfere with anything important," said Old Master Li as he reeled his fishing line back in and re-baited the hook.

    "Not at all. I''m a hand model. It''s not like I have weekend overtime. I have plenty of free time," Li Zhen rxedfortably in a lounge chair.

    Spending time with grandpa was sofortable.

    In the future when she obtainedpany shares and dividends, she would also buy a ce like this and apany grandpa and her child fishing every day.

    Old Master Li let out a sigh, recalling Yu Sheng, "You said the two of you are so mismatched. One so free, the other so busy..."

    It would definitely take a toll on their rtionship.

    How did the conversation get back to Yu Sheng again? Li Zhenzily replied, "He''s just starting his career. Being busy is normal."

    Neglecting one''s wife for a year while entertaining female clients, apanying them, holding them, drinking with them was not normal. But she wouldn''t mention this to grandpa.

    When Li Zhen thought about Yu Sheng embracing another woman and drinking together in the private room, she surprisingly felt no heartache. It was as if she were recalling a stranger.

    "It''s good you can think like this. I was worried you''d feel down because of his work," said grandpa.

    Li Zhen looked up and frowned, "Grandpa, it feels like you''re testing me."

    Old Master Li guffawed loudly, "You girl, always overthinking. Can''t grandpa just chat with you?"

    At dinner time, Yu Sheng still hadn''t returned. After Old Master Li finished dinner at around 6:30pm, Li Zhen helped grandpa back to his room since he had taken a fall yesterday and needed to rest over the next few days.

    Li Zhen came out of Old Master Li''s room, also preparing to return to her own room.

    But Old Master Li''s door suddenly opened.

    Their eyes met.

    Old Master Li red and bellowed, "Why are you next door to me? Isn''t your bedroom with Little Yu on the third floor?"

    Li Zhen rubbed her nose. She didn''t expect grandpa to have hearing this sharp at his age.

    For this stay at Jinlu Park, Li Zhen had chosen the room adjacent to Old Master Li''s. Knowing she couldn''t hide it, she didn''t intend to.

    She smiled and said, "Grandpa, of course I have to stay next to you to take care of you since you''re staying at my home."

    Old Master Li rolled his eyes, "Then howe you didn''t stay next to mest time?"

    Last time she didn''t know Yu Sheng would go so crazy when he lost control!

    Of course she wouldn''t foolishly room with Yu Sheng again this time.

    "Wasn''t it my dad who stayed next to youst time?" Li Zhen walked over and held Old Master Li''s arms, assisting him back into his bedroom, "Aiya, grandpa. The older you get, the more you meddle."

    "It''s because I was too lenient on you before. Now I ask you a couple questions and you find me annoying," Old Master Li deliberately made himself out to be pitiful.

    Li Zhen knew him too well, of course recognizing he was saying this on purpose.

    But she still felt bad for him and yed along, "Yes, yes, I was in the wrong. There, go rest. You were just discharged from the hospital after staying overnight from your fall yesterday. Can''t be willful today. You need to turn in early."

    After helping Old Master Li into bed, Li Zhen tucked him in. "I''m going to an exhibit with Yu Shengter and will be backte. Let Wu Ma know if you need anything."

    Old Master Li''s eyes instantly lit up, "Okay, okay. Go ahead. Don''t mind me."

    "Alright." Li Zhen smiled and turned off the lights, closing the door for Old Master Li.

    It was approaching 7pm. She quickly tidied up in her room and went to the front door of the vi. At 6:59 sharp, Yu Sheng''s Mercedes-Benz rolled to a stop right in front of her.

    The window slowly rolled down, revealing Yu Sheng''s cold, chiseled profile. "Get in."

    Li Zhen walked around to the passenger side and sat down, "Where are we going today?"

    "Not far."

    Indeed it wasn''t far, just a fifteen minute drive.

    When they arrived, Zhou Chaowen, Wan Zhe, and Dong Wanwan were already waiting at the entrance. They apanied the two inside.

    "Brother Sheng, sister-inw, I pulled a lot of strings to get tickets for today''s exhibit," Zhou Chaowen proudly took credit.

    Wan Zhe teased from the side, "Talking it up so much. What''d you fight to get tickets for? To pretend you''re cultured?"

    "That''s how it is. Among us, only Brother Sheng actually understands this stuff a bit," Zhou Chaowen obsequiously ttered.

    Dong Wanwan couldn''t stand Zhou Chaowen''s unconditional worship of Yu Sheng.

    Yu Sheng spoke indifferently, "There''s no use in understanding this stuff. Just focus your efforts on business. Don''t fuss over trivial matters."

    "Brother Sheng, if you say I''ve gotten my business to a good ce, why don''t youe help me out?" Zhou Chaowen quickly seized the opportunity to ask again.

    Li Zhen fell back a couple steps behind the others and heard Zhou Chaowen''s words. She looked up at them.

    Zhou Chaowen''s good intentions werepletely misced. Yu Sheng didn''t need job opportunities.

    Yu Sheng simply replied, "Let''s not bring this up again. I''m doing very well at Macro-Ocean."

    "Alright, Brother Sheng," Zhou Chaowen was dejected.

    Today''s exhibit was a collection of pieces by hobbyist collectors, touring major cities. It contained no shortage of rarities.

    Zhou Chaowen had only invited everyone today because he wanted to create more opportunities for Yu Sheng and Li Zhen to spend time together. He actually knew nothing about art and had no interest.

    Dong Wanwan''s gaze roamed around boredly until a painting suddenly caught her attention. She walked over, "Chaowen, this painting looks so weird."

    It was a painting done in clean, simple strokes. A young blonde girl sat in a red chair, but the lines were overly simplistic, just a few brushes.

    "They can disy something like this at this exhibit? They said it was a rare collection. It''s nothing special." Dong Wanwan looked disdainfully, subtly ncing at Li Zhen and Yu Sheng. "I said it''d be boring today. Chaowen, let''s just go back."

    When a group went out to have fun, nothing was worse than someone being a wet nket.

    Zhou Chaowen''s expression was a little awkward.

    "You probably just don''t understand it," Li Zhen smiled and slowly said, "This is a Picasso."

    Dong Wanwan was stunned. That''s it? A Picasso painting?

    The few people present didn''t understand, but they did know Picasso''s name.

    Dong Wanwan''s expression immediately turned ugly.

    Li Zhen was clearly just trying to p her in the face!

 Chapter 50: Can Afford It

    <h4>Chapter 50</h4>

    Dong Wanwan stuck her neck out and said in a coquettish voice, "Even Picasso couldn''t make every painting a masterpiece. I think this painting is just average, maybe it''s one of his rejects."

    "A few years ago, it was auctioned off. The buyer was a hedge fund manager who got it from a casino mogul. Do you know how much it went for?" Li Zhen stared straight at Dong Wanwan, exerting pressure. "One point five billion..."

    He deliberately paused for a second beforezily adding two words, "U.S. dors."

    A hundred million!!!

    Not just Dong Wanwan, even Zhou Chaowen and Wan Zhe were shocked.

    Li Zhen smiled faintly, the corners of her red lips curving up slightly. "Do you still think it''s a reject?"

    Dong Wanwan opened and closed her mouth, but no sound came out.

    This was the reaction Li Zhen wanted. Last time in the car, Dong Wanwan had deliberately mentioned the "nude photos" to humiliate her again. She wasn''t a pushover to be casually manipted. If someone tried to shame her, she would fight back.

    Humiliating people, who couldn''t do that?

    Wan Zhe nodded nkly, "Indeed, art is hard to understand. Now I look at it and see it full of artistic value, I feel I''ve been elevated."

    "I didn''t look closely before, but now I see it''s not bad," Dong Wanwan stammered.

    Li Zhen smiled lightly and said regretfully, "But this is just a replica, imitating its form but not its spirit."

    "See..." Dong Wanwan''s expression immediately brightened, looking smug, "I said this painting wasn''t much good, you see I was right!"

    "Why the hurry? I''m not finished yet," Li Zhen was still smiling.

    That smile made Dong Wanwan a little afraid, she had a feeling the other woman had something nasty up her sleeve.

    Sure enough, Li Zhen''s next sentence was: "But even this replica is collectible grade, fetching a price of twenty million at auction two years ago."

    Dong Wanwan froze, her face alternating between green and white. Li Zhen must have deliberately brought up this matter to embarrass her.

    Bitch!

    Dong Wanwan was furious but couldn''t find words for a rebuttal.

    Suddenly, the sound of slow pping came from behind them. "Well analyzed, quite knowledgeable."

    They turned to look.

    Li Zhen''s hair stood on end.

    Lu Yanming?

    How was he here!

    Behind Lu Yanming was Fei Zhao.

    Fei Zhao stood respectfully behind Lu Yanming, chin up, gaze unfriendly as he stared at Yu Sheng.

    Yu Sheng''s expression was calm as he nodded at Lu Yanming, "Mr. Lu."

    Lu Yanming pushed his sses up and spoke as if making casual conversation, "Chairman Yu is usually busy with work, today you seem to have time on your hands?"

    Yu Sheng: "There''s always more work, I didn''t expect to run into Mr. Lu."

    Their conversation was polite and proper.

    It seemed harmonious.

    But Li Zhen''s scalp tingled, she surreptitiously retreated behind Wan Zhe, hoping to disappear from the spot.

    She really didn''t want Lu Yanming to discover she was with Yu Sheng, didn''t want to give him any leverage over her.

    But Lu Yanming had pped because of her! He''d already seen her! Li Zhen was exasperated, wishing she could dig a hole and burrow into it.

    But someone was not cooperating with her wishes. Dong Wanwan practically shrieked, "Li Zhen! Isn''t this thewyer you were looking forst time?"

    Yu Sheng''s gaze gradually darkened. "Lawyer?"

    Damn, Li Zhen had forgotten Dong Wanwan had met Lu Yanming before.

    What a mess, everyone gathered today!

    Yu Sheng turned to Dong Wanwan. "He is the deputy CEO of our Hong Hai Group. You must have mistaken him for someone else. Mr. Lu is nowyer."

    How could she have mistaken him! The man before her, Dong Wanwan would remember that face for two or three more years.

    After all, he had left too deep a psychological shadow!

    Dong Wanwan stated categorically, "It''s him!"

    Li Zhen was hopeless, Dong Wanwan''s memory was surprisingly good this time!

    Lu Yanming smiled faintly, "Last time was indeed me, but I never said I was awyer."

    Dong Wanwan was silenced, he seemed not to have said he was, she had assumed.

    Zhou Chaowen and Wan Zhe still hadn''t fully grasped the situation, only sensing Yu Sheng''s aura seemed to have cooled in an instant.

    Yu Sheng looked up, gaze murky and unclear. "Is that so? Mr. Lu is quite close with Li Zhen in private?"

    The point wasn''t thewyer bit, but... Li Zhen actually had private dealings with Lu Yanming?

    Yu Sheng suddenly recalled seeing Li Zhen''s chat records with Lu Yanming, and Lu Yanming''s cryptic words that time at the photoshoot.

    "Chairman Yu cane with her to an art exhibition, you two seem close as well?" Lu Yanming''s tone was as usual, neither warm nor cold, his gaze falling on Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen tensed uppletely.

    Almost reflexively, Wan Zhe said, "You can''tpare with our Sheng-ge. Sheng-ge and Li Zhen are..."

    "Always been quite familiar," Li Zhen weakly cut in, poking her head out again from behind Wan Zhe.

    Wan Zhe was stunned for a moment.

    Zhou Chaowen quickly whispered in Wan Zhe''s ear, "Hong Hai..."

    Wan Zhe immediately understood, Hong Hai was famously strict about forbidding office rtionships. "Yes yes, Sheng-ge and sister-inw...Li Zhen have always been quite familiar."

    Wan Zhe and Zhou Chaowen tacitly chose to conceal the rtionship between the two.

    Li Zhen rxed a little.

    But the next second, Yu Sheng turned to look at her, gaze cold, "Zhen''er, what''s this about you and Mr. Lu together on some matter? Why look for Mr. Lu instead of me?"

    Usually when addressing her, Yu Sheng called her by her full name.

    This rare "Zhen''er" sent chills down Li Zhen''s back.

    With one nce at each other, Wan Zhe and Zhou Chaowen understood that Sheng-ge seemed to be staking a im! The situation seemed a little delicate now.

    Although the gaze of the man opposite was mild and cool, he exuded a faintly formidable aura not to be trifled with.

    Dong Wanwan was still aggrieved over the diamond watch matter. "Sheng-ge, the watch Li Zhen broke, this man said the watch was fake, but when I had it tested the results showed it was real..."

    "The testing agencyter also said their test was faulty, it was fake after all. Don''t try to shirk responsibility for what should bepensated," Li Zhen piped up again when the diamond watch was mentioned, unhappy about it.

    Dong Wanwan sneered coldly, "You must have used some connections to deliberately avoid paying the 32,000 yuan. That authentication agency has never made mistakes before, how could their test results suddenly be wrong?"

    Yu Sheng: "ount number."

    Dong Wanwan nked. "Huh?"

    Yu Sheng sounded impatient. "Bank ount number."

    Dong Wanwan hurriedly found her ount number on her phone.

    After the transfer went through, Yu Sheng turned to Lu Yanming, his tone polite but carrying an extremely aggressive cold sharpness. "Mr. Lu, I''ll trouble you not to get involved in Zhen''er''s matters from now on. We can afford to pay what needs to be paid, no need to shirk responsibility."

 Chapter 51: Free Donors

    <h4>Chapter 51</h4>

    Lu Yanming''s expression was calm, but his eyes darkened for a moment.

    Dong Wanwan was ecstatic to get the money. She didn''t care about the amount, she was just happy that Li Zhen had to pay up in the end.

    Behind Wan Zhe, Li Zhen stood up in disbelief, "Yusheng, whether to pay for the watch is my business. What right do you have to make decisions for me!"

    Li Zhen''s chest heaved with anger.

    Just because he was rich, Yusheng could arbitrarily decide things for her? 32,000 yuan, what right did he have to just transfer the money and pay for her?

    Li Zhen turned and walked away, her lowered hands trembling slightly.

    "Li Zhen!" Yusheng panicked and didn''t care that there were others present. He chased after her.

    Lu Yanming lowered his eyes, his noble face impassive.

    He used to think he would be happy to see Li Zhen and Yusheng argue and hoped they would fight more fiercely.

    But seeing it happen, he realized: he didn''t want that.

    If Li Zhen was even a little unhappy, he didn''t want to see it, no matter the reason.

    "Young master..." Fei Zhao keenly noticed Lu Yanming''s mood change.

    Lu Yanming: "Let''s go back."

    Wan Zhe and Zhou Chaowen were stunned. They were getting along well just now, so why did brother Sheng and sister-inw start fighting?

    Outside the exhibition hall, Yusheng grabbed Li Zhen''s wrist. "It''s just a few tens of thousands! Why are you so angry?"

    Tens of thousands felt like tens of dors to him.

    Li Zhen stopped and looked back at him. "Yusheng, when will you change your presumptuous habits? It was my business. You had no right to decide for me. Did you ever consider how I felt? Do you have any sense of propriety and boundaries?"

    Yusheng was furious. "It was a small matter. If you didn''t want me to handle it, who did you expect to? Lu Yanming?"

    "It has nothing to do with anyone else!" Li Zhen retorted angrily. "Handle it? You think paying money settles it? I should pay for breaking the watch, but that day at the KTV, Dong Wanwan was clinging to me like a leech and causing me trouble. I identally broke the watch then. You think I willingly want topensate her? Giving her hell money would be giving her too much face!"

    Li Zhen was getting more agitated as she spoke.

    Seeing Dong Wanwan''s ted expression just now was like a needle pricking her heart.

    Yusheng was stunned for two seconds. His tone softened a little. "You should have told me your thoughts earlier."

    "What''s the use of telling you? Haven''t I expressed my opinions clearly enough in the past? How many times did you actually listen?" Li Zhen said bitterly. "Besides, why do I need to tell you now? Who are you to me?"

    Yusheng faltered. "Li Zhen..."

    Li Zhen didn''t wait for him to continue. She turned and left.

    Yusheng stood in ce, feeling a chill in his heart and a sharp piercing pain.

    She seemed really angry this time.

    Ever since they divorced, her reactions during their arguments were different than before.

    More decisive, moresting.

    Was it because he disregarded her feelings? Was it because he didn''t spend time with her? She was probably trying to get him topromise ande back home through this incident.

    -

    Li Zhen returned to Jinyu Court.

    Seeing her fury, Wu Ma hurried over. "Mistress, what''s wrong? Who upset you?"

    In the past year, Wu Ma had taken good care of her. At Jinyu Court, it was mostly just her and Wu Ma keeping each otherpany.

    Li Zhen looked at Wu Ma and restrained her anger. "Wu Ma, Yusheng and I are divorced. Don''t call me Mistress anymore."

    "What! How can that be!" Wu Ma looked as if struck by lightning. "Master Yu dotes on you so much. How could he divorce you?"

    Li Zhen gave a self-deprecatingugh. "It''s true, Wu Ma. We really divorced."

    "Is it because of that incident where Master Yu hit you?" Wu Ma held Li Zhen''s hand earnestly. "Please give Master Yu one more chance. He won''t do it again."

    Wu Ma sincerely liked Li Zhen.

    "It wasn''t that. It''splicated." Li Zhen shook her head and didn''t borate. She got up and headed to her grandfather''s room.

    At the door, Li Zhen hesitated.

    She had to tell her grandfather about the divorce. She could already imagine how much he would oppose it.

    She took a deep breath and went in.

    Old Master Li was still ying on his phone. Seeing Li Zhen enter, he hurriedly hid his phone under the pillow and closed his eyes. "I wasn''t ying on my phone!"

    "Grandpa, get up. I''m taking you home." Li Zhen stood by the bed and said heavily.

    Old Master Li opened his eyes wide. "Why? I''m not leaving..."

    "Grandpa, I don''t want to disrupt you either, but..." Li Zhen steadied her emotions and spoke as calmly as she could. "Grandpa, I''m sorry I hid this from you before. Yusheng and I are already divorced."

    Old Master Li: ......

    He had wanted to pretend he didn''t know, and secretly reconcile them. Now he couldn''t pretend anymore.

    Moreover, he knew Li Zhen best.

    By telling him about the divorce herself, it meant she was determined not to look back, let alone calling him homete at night. Not hiding it from him meant they must have just had a big fight and she was too tired to keep up the pretense.

    Li Zhen grew worried at her grandfather''s silence.

    "Grandpa, please don''t be angry with me." Li Zhen tried to downy the matter to cate her soon-to-be angry grandfather. "I know he''s the Yu family''s eldest son, and that Yusheng has no ws. But we''re not suitable for each other..."

    Before Li Zhen could finish, Old Master Li suddenly interrupted. "wless my ass!"

    Li Zhen: ......

    Old Master Li sat up, ring angrily. "He''s not worthy of you at all. My precious granddaughter is a heavenly fairy. He''s a turtle in the water. What''s good about him! Never mind him. There are plenty of two-legged men, not just the three-eyed ones."

    Li Zhen''s eyes reddened. "Grandpa, I thought you''d scold me and force me to remarry Yusheng."

    "Of course not. My precious granddaughter has always been the smartest. Your decisions are always right. Grandpa will always support you!" Old Master Li reached out and rubbed his beloved granddaughter''s head.

    "Grandpa." Li Zhen threw herself into her grandfather''s arms. The tension that had gripped her heart loosened in that instant, reced by the profound sense of being unconditionally loved by family.

    "There, there. My precious girl will find someone even better." Old Master Li''s heart ached for her.

    This child never had a mother. Her father was as good as non-existent.

    He still remembered when she was two, the kids at preschool called her a bastard child, saying she had a mother who gave birth to her but didn''t raise her.

    She came home and asked him, "Grandpa, what''s a mother?"

    His wife couldn''t hold back her tears then.

    But from that day on, Li Zhen never asked about it again. She didn''t pester for her mother like other kids. But whenever she saw other children out with their mothers, she would look a little longer.

    Ever since he fell ill and moved back to the Li family home, she had been boarding at school.

    The love he could give this child was so limited.

    He thought Yusheng would be the one to fill that void for her, but it turned out he wasn''t either...

    "There, there, Grandpa is here. Grandpa will always be with you." Old Master Li held Li Zhen tightly so she wouldn''t see his old tears flowing freely.

    -

    Li Zhen called a rideshare car and apanied her grandfather back to the Li family home.

    In the car, Old Master Li suddenly recalled something very important. "Dear, do you still want those shares?"

    "I do." Li Zhen answered swiftly.

    Hearing her response, Old Master Li instantly understood. She was nning to exploit the loophole in the contract.

    Because it didn''t specify the child had to be Yusheng''s.

    Old Master Li searched his newly acquired knowledge. "So you''re nning on...in vitro?"

    Mentioning this made Li Zhen feel awkward. "Grandpa, no need for in vitro. I found a...quite decent...sperm donor."

    Li Zhen chose her words carefully. "With good genes who donates for free."

    Old Master Li frowned, struggling toprehend.

    Good genes, free donation, but not in vitro?

    That could only mean what those short online videos called...

    A f*ck buddy!

    Old Master Li choked on his breath!

 Chapter 52: Is it true

    <h4>Chapter 52</h4>

    Old Master Li tried his best to steady his emotions. "Zhen''er, is the person who freely donated genes to you reliable?"

    "Very reliable!" Li Zhen nodded, wanting to reassure her grandfather. "So Grandpa, please help me hide this from my dad for a while longer. Once I''m pregnant, it won''t matter if he knows."

    Old Master Li rubbed his face, forcing himself to stay calm.

    In the past, he had read many parenting books by experts saying that children should be encouraged and supported, not opposed harshly.

    "This is a risky move, Zhen''er."

    "Grandpa, high risks mean high rewards."

    Old Master Li considered this and asked, "Can I meet the person who freely donated genes to you?"

    Li Zhen had expected her grandfather''s worries. "Okay, Grandpa. He''s very reasonable. Let me ask him first. But..."

    Li Zhen hesitated.

    "What is it?" Old Master Li had a bad premonition.

    "He''s an uninformed gene donor. If you meet him, don''t bring this up." Li Zhen''s expression was unusually awkward, very rare for her.

    "Cough, cough!" Old Master Li couldn''t help coughing twice. He felt his heart turn cold.

    An uninformed gene donor? That''s a deceived party!

    His granddaughter still had the same big ideas as when she was little.

    -

    In the early morning, Yu Sheng parked his car and arrived at the front yard of his home.

    The lights in the vi were all on. He realized something was wrong.

    In the past at the Yu family mansion, he had lived in a separate small building. When he got off work every day, the lights at home would definitely all be on, with the servants ready to wait on him anytime.

    After marrying Li Zhen, she went to bed first. He had instructed Wu Ma to stop keeping the old habits from when he lived at the Yu house.

    Once Li Zhen was asleep, all the lights in the vi had to be turned off.

    "President Yu." The wrought iron gate in the front yard opened. Wu Ma was worried and anxious about the situation with the two of them, but she only bowed her head to greet Yu Sheng and walked with him into the vi, not daring to say another word.

    "Where is madam?" Yu Sheng asked.

    "Madam..." Wu Ma''s head drooped even lower. "Madam has left."

    Yu Sheng''s figure froze for an instant.

    "Where is Grandpa?"

    "He left with Madam." Wu Ma took Yu Sheng''s suit jacket.

    Yu Sheng didn''t say anything else. After changing his shoes, he went to sit on the sofa and leaned his head back, propping his feet up on the rosewood coffee table.

    Wu Ma stood nervously to the side, not daring to speak.

    In the past when his wife was home, the first thing he would do when he came back was go upstairs. He never sat in the living room like this.

    Yu Sheng spoke heavily, "Bring me a bottle of wine."

    "Yes, President Yu." Wu Ma nodded.

    Wu Ma brought the wine, opened it, brought a decanter, and ced an empty wine ss nearby.

    Yu Sheng got up and took just the wine and wine ss, then went to the backyard.

    Wu Ma followed, worriedly saying, "President Yu, it''s already veryte, and you get up early every day. Drinking more wine now will make it hard to rest well."

    Yu Sheng sat in a lounge chair by theke. His tall figure cast a straight silhouette in theke water.

    "I need some quiet to think about some things..." He waved Wu Ma away.

    -

    After sending her grandfather back, Li Zhen returned to Sunny Garden.

    Lu Yanming was sitting on the carpet in the living room, very quiet, only the sound of his typing on the keyboard.

    Li Zhen put down her bag and walked over.

    On the way today, she had already decided what to say about why she was with Yu Sheng. She had to make Lu Yanming believe that she and Yu Sheng were just ordinary friends, so this wouldn''t be ammunition against her.

    Lu Yanming seemed very focused on whatever he was working on.

    Li Zhen sat on the sofa and looked down at him sitting on the floor. This angle was very strange. Usually she could only look up at him.

    Now looking down at him, she strangely felt he was a little cute. What was going on?

    "How much longer are you going to keep watching?" Lu Yanming suddenly spoke.

    Li Zhen was startled. "You knew I came back, Chairman Lu?"

    "I''m still young with sharp eyes and ears." Lu Yanming chuckled lightly.

    Li Zhen rxed a little. He didn''t seem particrly unhappy, so she took the chance to exin about Yu Sheng. "Chairman Lu, Yu Sheng and I..."

    "I know, you were college ssmates." Lu Yanming cut her off, his voice clear and casual as he continued tapping on the keyboard.

    Li Zhen was shocked for a moment. "Chairman Lu, won''t you ask me why I seem close to him? Or why I went to the exhibit with him?"

    Lu Yanming stopped and craned his neck to look up at her.

    Under themplight, the edges of his gold wire-rimmed sses glinted, making him look especially elegant. "Why would I ask?"

    His response left Li Zhen at a loss for words.

    After a long pause, she said, "Because we''re cooperative spouses. You''re a man. It''s normal to be possessive of the woman you share a bed with. Seeing me with another man should make you unhappy, so you should want to know the reason, right?"

    Lu Yanming gazed at her, his eyes tranquil. "You''ve already said it all yourself. Are you being so considerate of me?"

    Li Zhen''s ear tips reddened slightly. "It''s not consideration either. I''m just very cooperative."

    "Did you deliberately stay close to Yu Sheng to upset me?"

    "I didn''t..."

    Lu Yanming cut her off. "So you must have your own reasons, apelling circumstance that forced you to do this."

    His words were far too unexpected.

    Li Zhen suddenly felt her eyes grow damp.

    She was caught between the Li family, Yu Sheng, thepany, and Lu Yanming, often weighed down by a deep sense of fatigue. The slightest thing going wrong made her panic.

    She knew her greed was to me, wanting to hide her office marriage from thepany, wanting the Li family shares, wanting a peaceful, affluent future with her grandfather and child.

    But people always want better lives. That''s not wrong or a sin.

    She had chosen this path and had to bear the hardship.

    Yet halfway down the road, someone suddenly told her: I understand yourpelling circumstance.

    Heavens, Li Zhen suddenly felt like crying a little. What to do!

    "Seeing you together makes me unhappy, and it probably will next time too, maybe even make me lose my temper. But..." Lu Yanming''s long, slender fingers gently sped her hand in his palm.

    "Even if it makes me unhappy, that doesn''t stop me from understanding yourpelling circumstance."

    His rough fingertips stroked her jade-like palm, spreading warmth down Li Zhen''s spine.

    "Li Zhen, it''s my fault for being unhappy, not yours."

    "Chairman Lu," Li Zhen raised her head to look at the ceiling, afraid she might lose control and let tears fall which would be too awkward. "I advise you not to be so sentimental, or I might start crying a little."

    But Lu Yanming gripped the back of her head and made her lower it from looking at the ceiling.

    Her gaze fell from the ceiling into the depths of his eyes, as vast as the sea.

    He slowly drew near, craning his head up. His Adam''s apple rolled sexily and his lips pursed to gently kiss her eyes.

    "I advise you not to cry, or I might start wanting to kiss you."

 Chapter 53: If we can, if we canâ€™t, we canâ€™t.

    <h4>Chapter 53</h4>

    The mood was set.

    It would seem inappropriate not to have a child now.

    "If you want to kiss me, you don''t have to wait until I cry. Go ahead." Li Zhen put her arm around Lu Yanming''s neck and kissed him.

    It was the first time she had taken the initiative to kiss him while sober. Not bad.

    But she didn''t get to enjoy the pleasure of taking initiative for long before Lu Yanming got up and pressed her down on the couch, pinning her beneath him.

    Breathing heavily, the atmosphere in the room became extremely ambiguous.

    "I just wanted to have a nice chat with you. Why are you getting handsy?" Lu Yanming raised an eyebrow teasingly. "One second you''re about to cry, the next you want me already? You bounce back quickly."

    Li Zhen''s face reddened. She sniffed and said hoarsely, "Didn''t you say we could do it today?"

    Lu Yanming smiled. "Let me take a look first..."

    Look?

    Look at what?

    Li Zhen was still processing this when Lu Yanming lowered his head.

    Her skirt lifted...

    Li Zhen clutched the couch tightly, her ears bright red. "President Lu!"

    A few secondster, Lu Yanming withdrew his hands, looking regretful. "No good, you haven''t recovered yet. Let''s wait one more day."

    Li Zhen tugged her skirt down and bolted up. "You..."

    She couldn''t get the rest of the words out. Li Zhen was so angry she turned and stormed into the bedroom, mming the door behind her.

    Leaning against the door, she panted, chest heaving.

    How could he just casually inspect her like that!

    She had just started thinking he wasn''t so bad, but now...

    What a jerk!

    "It''s Monday again. Time to start another miserable week of working my ass off."

    In the makeup room next to Photography Studio 12, Meng Yuanjieined wearily as the makeup artist worked on his face.

    "Well, you partied too hard this weekend. No wonder you have no energy for work," said Zhang Xiya as she curled her hair.

    She had recently gotten air bangs and had to spend a lot of time styling them every day.

    Li Zhen had arrived early and was already prepared, sitting on the sofa waiting. "Howe Qiao Yi still isn''t here?"

    "I don''t know. I texted her first thing this morning to ask her to bring the buns from outside her residentialplex, but she hasn''t replied. Maybe she overslept?" Meng Yuanjie''s makeup was done. He got up from the dressing table, flopped down on the sofa next to Li Zhen, and sprawled outzily.

    "No way. She has a darling daughter she has to get up early every day to take to school. There''s no way she overslept," said Li Zhen. She took out her phone and called Qiao Yi.

    The call went unanswered.

    Li Zhen checked the time. It was about time to head to the studio and get ready. She''d contact Qiao Yi againter.

    As she approached the door, she bumped right into Jiang Kening.

    Li Zhen''s brow furrowed slightly and she shifted to the side to let Jiang pass.

    Jiang shifted in the same direction, blocking Li Zhen''s path.

    Li Zhen looked up at her coldly. "Don''t block the way."

    "I have something to tell you, a friendly warning. Do you want to hear it or not?" Jiang leaned against the doorframe,pletely obstructing the passage.

    "I''m not very interested in ''warnings'' from you," Li Zhen said with a trace of an icy smile.

    What kind of friendly warning would Jiang give her?

    Unless the moon started rising in the north.

    Zhang Xiya was still holding the curling iron. Slowly, she said, "Yuanjie, I saw a very interesting sentence yesterday."

    Meng Yuanjie: "What was it?"

    "A good pig doesn''t sleep inte, a good donkey doesn''t bray randomly, and a good dog never blocks the way," recited Zhang Xiya. She put down the curling iron and red at Jiang Kening. "Too bad some dogs just love to jump around, blocking the way and making noise."

    Jiang Kening''s face turned red, then white.

    Gritting her teeth, she ignored Zhang Xiya and didn''t bother sparring with Li Zhen anymore. She went straight to the point: "Li Zhen, you''re headed to Studio 5 now, right? Sorry, but I booked all my print jobs there recently."

    Li Zhen''s brow furrowed. "What''s that supposed to mean? They changed it? What about me then?"

    "You''ll still be in Studio 5, just wait a little longer," said Ren Zongshun, appearing in the doorway.

    Jiang Kening quickly moved out of his way. "Manager."

    Li Zhen had a bad feeling about this. "Manager, Jiang takes up the whole morning for one shoot. If I have to wait for her to finish before I can start, won''t I be shooting until 8 or 9 at night?"

    Ren Zongshun tried to pacify her. "I know you''re upset, which is why I came to tell you myself. You''ve been with thepany for three years now so you''re a veteran. You need to learn to follow thepany''s arrangements."

    Before Li Zhen could respond, Zhang Xiya objected, "Manager, that''s not right. The studio and schedule were already set. How can you just change it on a whim?"

    "Zhang Xiya, if you were the boss you could call the shots. You''re not, so keep your mouth shut!" Jiang Kening red at her.

    She had been itching for a chance to snap back at Zhang Xiya for calling her a dog earlier.

    Meng Yuanjie scoffed lightly. "What a good little boss''s pet."

    "Meng Yuanjie!" shouted Jiang Kening.

    "Alright, that''s enough," said Ren Zongshun, his head pounding. "Li Zhen, the decision''s been made. I already spoke with the photographer at Studio 5."

    Li Zhen nced at Jiang Kening''s smug face, considered for a moment, then said, "We could share it..."

    Ren Zongshun nodded, relieved. "That works."

    Li Zhen: "But I shoot first, she shoots after."

    Ren Zongshun: "Hm?"

    Jiang Kening immediately blew up. "What are you thinking? You shoot first? A partial model like you is going to snatch the studio from me, a full-body model? Make me wait for you?"

    "Yes, you''re so dignified and amazing, the best! I''ll give you your sense of superiority. But as for the studio, we can only follow the original schedule. I use it first, you wait if you want to use it. That''s how it is. Take it or leave it." Li Zhen spoke slowly and deliberately.

    There was no way Li Zhen would foolishly wait for Jiang Kening to finish shooting.

    That would mean unpaid overtime for her these next few days, plus docked performance pay! Docked wages!

    "Manager Ren, look at how she..." Jiang Kening jabbed a finger at Li Zhen.

    Ren Zongshun was also getting a headache.

    Li Zhen was usually very even-tempered, but he knew that provoke her and she became a lioness who would sink her teeth into anyone.

    He actually quite admired Li Zhen for being hardworking and excellent at her job, and got along well with her.

    But recently, for some reason, Jiang Kening was dead set on opposing Li Zhen.

    Ren Zongshun fingered the membership card Jiang Kening had just slipped him and steeled himself to say, "Li Zhen, that''s how it''ll be. I already spoke to the photographer at Studio 5."

    With that, he hurriedly fled the impending disaster zone.

    But he hadn''t taken two steps before he heard Jiang Kening shriek behind him, "Ah!"

    Followed by her screaming furiously, "Li Zhen! You bitch, you pped me!"

    Ren Zongshun''s heart thudded wildly. He whirled around to see a scene that made his blood boil!

    Jiang Kening had Li Zhen by the hair. "You dare hit me? I''ll kill you!"

    "You just flipped me off!" Li Zhen had Jiang Kening by both ears. "Did you spend the weekend partying with the sun? Feeling brave enough to kill me today, huh? Well I''m going to kill you if you don''t!"

    Zhang Xiya was thrilled at the side, baring her teeth in excitement. "I''ve been wanting to hit her for ages! p her, little Zhen Zhen!"

    "Go Li Zhen!" Meng Yuanjie yelled eagerly. "Tear her mouth! Rip out her tongue!"

    Ren Zongshun: ...A bunch of lunatics.

 Chapter 54: Stop Fighting

    <h4>Chapter 54</h4>

    ¡°Stop hitting, stop hitting!" Ren Zongshun shouted loudly.

    Jiang Kening''s ears were being twisted so hard that she was in excruciating pain. ¡°You cheap woman Li Zhen, let go! What¡¯s the point of mutually assured destruction? Let¡¯s both let go!¡±

    ¡°You can let go if you want, I won¡¯t!" Li Zhen gritted her teeth and endured the pain on her scalp.

    ¡°I¡¯m stupid? If you don¡¯t let go then I won¡¯t let go either?¡±

    ¡°What are you whining about? Weren¡¯t you trying to kill me? Don¡¯t chicken out now!¡±

    Jiang Kening was about to pass out from the pain, provoked by Li Zhen''s words until her blood boiled.

    ¡°You cheap woman!" Jiang Kening raised her leg and kicked towards Li Zhen''s belly.

    Li Zhen was wearing high heels and lost her bnce. She fell to the ground with a thud after being kicked.

    Her head buzzed and rang for quite a while before she came to her senses and got up. She immediately bared her ws and pounced at Li Zhen, "Ah! I''m going to kill you!"

    -

    One hourter, at the police station.

    Wang Peng walked in with the police officer, took one look at the three employees inside, and his expression immediately darkened. ¡°Manager Ren, what¡¯s going on here! Why is it your department causing trouble again?¡±

    It had been like this day after day. How was he supposed to enjoy his peaceful retirement life in the next two years?

    Ren Zongshun immediately stood up, ¡°Director Wang, this was just an ident today. The two girls have bad tempers and are petnt, so they got into a fight. But it¡¯s no big deal!¡±

    The police officer raised an eyebrow, ¡°What do you mean it¡¯s no big deal? Fighting and brawling is not a big deal? Does someone have to die for it to be considered serious?¡±

    Ren Zongshun was taken aback. He quickly nodded, ¡°Yes, yes, you¡¯re absolutely right,rade.¡±

    Jiang Kening sat next to Ren Zongshun, crying softly and aggrievedly.

    Li Zhen sat in the corner, too tired to say anything, just leaning against the back of the chair.

    At the door, Lu Yanming''s low and steady voice came through, "Alright, thank you."

    Then he strode in, his gaze falling on Li Zhen in the corner.

    Her hair was a tangled mess, there were several scratch marks on her neck, and her clothes were torn and rumpled. She looked as wretched as a stray kitten.

    ¡°Yanming, did you finish the paperwork?¡± Wang Peng asked.

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s done.¡± Lu Yanming withdrew his gaze and nodded.

    Jiang Kening''s eyes suddenly lit up. She didn¡¯t often get the chance to interact with this new deputy general manager. She didn''t expect that not only Director Wang, but the new deputy general manager had alsoe to bail her and Li Zhen out today.

    This new deputy general manager was truly handsome.

    Even better looking up close.

    Jiang Kening squeezed her voice and sobbed coquettishly, appearing extra delicate and charming. ¡°Deputy General Manager Lu, I didn''t expect Li Zhen to directly assault me. It scared me.¡±

    Jiang Kening knew she had decent looks, so she dared to covet Yusheng.

    When she cried, there were usually plenty of men who felt sorry for her.

    But this new deputy general manager remainedpletely cold. He didn''t even respond to her words.

    She even felt that the new deputy general manager looked at her with an extremely cold gaze, though she wasn''t sure if that was just her imagination.

    Jiang Kening didn''t lose heart. She made her voice even more charming. ¡°Deputy General Manager Lu...I¡¯m in so much pain...¡±

    Wang Peng impatiently urged her, ¡°Why are you still crying? Hurry up and go.¡±

    Jiang Kening: ...

    She was so frightened by Wang Peng that she hupped from her crying.

    The few of them walked outside.

    ¡°Deputy General Manager Lu, can I get a ride back with you?¡± Jiang Kening clung to Lu Yanming like a dependent bird.

    She was a little envious seeing this Mercedes-Benz.

    Her sister''s boyfriend also drove a Mercedes-Benz, but it didn''t look as big or as long as this one.

    The deputy general manager''s Mercedes-Benz was probably much more expensive.

    Lu Yanming still didn''t say anything. He just nced down at her silently.

    It was a deep, cold nce. Jiang Kening couldn''t help shivering all over. "Deputy General Manager Lu..."

    "Kening,e ride in my car." Ren Zongshun quickly helped smooth things over for Jiang Kening.

    Jiang Kening got into his car.

    Li Zhen also walked towards Ren Zongshun''s car, but arge hand lightly grabbed her arm.

    "Get in the passenger seat." Lu Yanming tilted his chin towards his car.

    Li Zhen, who was feeling weak, obediently got into the passenger seat.

    Lu Yanming got into the car.

    Wang Peng was just about to open the back door of the Mercedes-Benz...

    When there was a sudden roar,

    And the Mercedes-Benz sped off in a cloud of dust.

    Wang Peng was left standing there stunned...

    He came to his senses and hurriedly waved at the Mercedes-Benz¡¯s rearview mirror, ¡°Yanming, Yanming! I haven¡¯t gotten in the car yet!¡±

    ¡°Director Wang, would you like to ride in my car?¡± Ren Zongshun jogged over and asked.

    In the car.

    Lu Yanming held the steering wheel with one hand, took off his suit jacket and draped it over Li Zhen. ¡°How did you lose so badly?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean I lost, I clearly won!¡± The defeated look on Li Zhen''s face instantly disappeared as she said resentfully, ¡°But I¡¯m not satisfied with how I won. I didn''t get to vent properly.¡±

    ¡°Winning or losing isn''t about who got hurt less. If you get hurt, you lose. You can fight again next time, but don''t let yourself get injured.¡± Lu Yanming spoke heavily.

    Li Zhen didn''t say anything more.

    She sighed softly in her heart. She really did look wretched now. Going back to thepany like this was a little embarrassing. But it was still working hours, so she didn''t feel right asking Lu Yanming to take her home to clean up either.

    The two of them entered the elevator back at thepany. Lu Yanming pressed the button for the 36th floor.

    That was where his office was. Li Zhen raised her hand to press the floor for the advertising department, but her hand was grasped gently by Lu Yanming¡¯srge, dry hand.

    ¡°We¡¯re at thepany now, Deputy General Manager Lu.¡± Li Zhen immediately pulled her hand back, scalded by his touch.

    ¡°There¡¯s no one else in the elevator. No need to be nervous.¡±

    ¡°But there are security cameras! There are people behind the cameras!¡±

    ¡°Do you really think they stare at the elevator all the time?¡±

    ¡°...¡± That was probably true.

    By the time they finished talking, the elevator had already arrived at the 36th floor.

    Li Zhen guessed that Lu Yanming had brought her to his office to treat her wounds, so she didn''t ask any more questions and followed him inside.

    But she didn''t expect that in addition to the first aid kit on the coffee table in his office, there was also her makeup, a mirror, ab, and a change of clothes.

    ¡°Deputy General Manager Lu, do you know magic? These appeared out of thin air?¡± Li Zhen''s depressed mood instantly turned cheerful.

    ¡°Fei Zhao went home to grab them.¡± Lu Yanming exined breezily. ¡°Come over here.¡±

    Li Zhen sat down on the sofa. Thest time she was here...was the day she was forced to get married.

    Her eyes unconsciously nced at the familiar trash can. Li Zhen suddenly remembered the conspicuous disposable glove and how he had put his jacket on the desk beforeying her down.

    Li Zhen suddenly felt restless sitting there. ¡°Hurry up, Deputy General Manager Lu. I still have work to do.¡±

    ¡°Can you use a different phrase?¡± Lu Yanming leisurely opened the first aid kit and sighed lightly. ¡°You''re always telling me to hurry up.¡±

    Li Zhen''s breathing tightened!

    What was he talking about!

    ¡°If I really went fast, you''d probablyin too. Nowadays, the word I hear most often when I walk past the pantry is ''five seconds''.¡± Lu Yanming''s voice was maic and pleasant, his tone casual, sounding like meaningless small talk.

    He took out an iodine swab to clean the small scratches on her neck.

    ¡°Ahem...¡± Li Zhen ufortably shifted her position. Alright, she was in the wrong about that incident.

    Lu Yanming''s breath fell on her sensitive neck. He said helplessly, ¡°So don''t get hurt next time. I canst a long time with anything.¡±

    After saying that, he lifted those clear, handsome eyes to look at her. ¡°Oh, don''t get the wrong idea. I meant I''m very slow at disinfecting and applying medicine.¡±

    Li Zhen: Haha, you''d better be.

 Chapter 55: Wait for Me after School

    <h4>Chapter 55</h4>

    Li Zhen felt more and more uneasy as she thought about it. Why did he suddenly bring up that incident again when things were going well?

    "Mr. Lu, about that five-second thing..." Li Zhen was about to ask.

    Lu Yanming just smiled. "Want to ask why I suddenly brought it up?"

    Li Zhen regretted it. Lu Yanming''s smile was ominous. She had a hunch it was not a good thing and that she shouldn''t have asked.

    Lu Yanming took out his phone and flipped to the chat history with Wang Peng. He ced the phone in front of Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen lowered her head to look.

    Wang Peng: Lu Yanming my friend, many people in thepany are using this sticker pack now. Don''t get angry when you see it. The employees work hard and joking with the boss is just for fun.

    Following this message was a screenshot of a chat. It showed a colleague from the legal department urging another colleague to submit documents.

    The urged person sent an animated GIF with a cartoon image of Lu Yanming shing the words "Don''t panic, I''ll be quick, just five seconds!"

    Li Zhen''s pupils shook!

    Impressive! The production quality of this GIF was quite high! Li Zhen admired it.

    "You quite appreciate this image?" Lu Yanming said with a smile.

    Shoot, forgot the person involved was still here!

    Li Zhen smiled awkwardly. "No no, how could I appreciate it? I think the person who made this has no kindness!"

    "I agree." Lu Yanming put his phone away.

    Li Zhen carefully observed Lu Yanming''s expression. He didn''t seem too angry. She secretly breathed a sigh of relief.

    After Lu Yanming finished bandaging her wound, he put away the first aid kit. "You can go to the lounge inside to change."

    Following Lu Yanming''s gaze, Li Zhen saw a hidden small door over there.

    As expected of the bosses!

    The office had a special lounge.

    She was envious.

    After changing her clothes and tidying up her hair, Li Zhen returned to the advertising department.

    The department was quite lively.

    Jiang Kening sat at her desk, surrounded by a crowd.

    "You don''t know how excessive Li Zhen is. She just pped me and pulled my ear." Jiang Kening looked pitiful.

    "Too much. I wonder why Li Zhen can still stay in thepany." Zhang Yucui added fuel to the fire on the side.

    "Right, exactly."

    "Just a hand model, ring to the sky."

    "Thepany should fire her."

    Everyone echoed agreement.

    The crowd surrounding Jiang Kening ounted for about two-thirds of the advertising department.

    Another third either didn''t gossip, had been helped by Li Zhen before, or liked Li Zhen''s unyielding tough character.

    In the huge advertising department, dozens of small groups formed, like a littlemunity.

    Zhang Xiya watched coldly from her desk, sipping on coffee just delivered by the delivery guy. She rolled her eyes at the group. "If Li Zhen was actually here, would they dare be so cocky?"

    "Speak of the devil." Meng Yuanjie raised his eyebrows.

    Li Zhen walked in from the door.

    The previously indignant people immediately shut up.

    "What are you all gathering for? A meeting?" Li Zhen nced at everyone as she walked over, ending up next to Zhang Yucui.

    The crowd was a bit crowded. Li Zhen lightly nced at Zhang Yucui.

    Zhang Yucui''s heart thumped as she discreetly shifted away. Last time Li Zhen just scolded her, but if Li Zhen was in a bad mood today and decided to hit her too...

    As Li Zhen got closer, everyone realized something was off.

    Li Zhen was poised, with neat hair and clean, tidy clothes, showing no signs of having just been in a fight.

    On the other hand, the seated Jiang Kening was a mess.

    "Howe when I arrive, everyone suddenly has nothing to say? If you have nothing to say, then disperse. Aren''t you all tired of standing?" Li Zhen swept her eyes over everyone.

    No one dared say much more. They quickly dispersed in less than a second.

    They saw Li Zhen as a living Yama King.

    Li Zhen looked down condescendingly at the person still seated. "Jiang Kening, pretending to be weak and pitiful in front of them, does that work? Can they help beat me up for you?"

    "What do you mean pretending? I really am aggrieved." Jiang Kening red fiercely.

    "ying the victim is the dumbest tactic." Li Zhen couldn''t bear to watch. "Since you feel wronged, I''ll give you a chance to regain some face."

    "What do you mean?" Jiang Kening was on guard.

    "We''ll meet after work at thepany entrance. Not leaving until we settle this." Li Zhen smiled.

    After speaking, she turned and went back to her desk.

    The people around had perked up their ears to eavesdrop. Hearing this real-life "wait for me after school" fight appointment, they were super excited!

    They all regretted missing the live version this morning, and could make up for it now.

    Jiang Kening''s brow furrowed tightly!

    She didn''t want to fight anymore.

    It hurt too much!

    But with Li Zhen openly challenging her in front of so many people, not going would seem cowardly.

    What kind of demon was Li Zhen, getting addicted to fighting? Didn''t she consider herself a woman?

    Unknown to Li Zhen and Jiang Kening, this news had already spread like tidal waves.

    Person A in the advertising department privately messaged Person B in the legal department: After work, go to thepany entrance. Two beauties from our department are meeting for a fight.

    Person B in the legal department told Person C from a neighboringpany: Come to Honghai Corporation''s entrance after work. Two models from ourpany are meeting to fight.

    The bored working-ss people on Tianfu Second Street were fired up.

    For excitement, nothing beat bigpanies!

    After work, Li Zhen called Zhang Xiya and Meng Yuanjie over. "Let''s go to Qiao Yi''s ce. Haven''t been able to contact her all day, I''m worried."

    "Didn''t you make a fight appointment with Jiang Kening?" Zhang Xiya asked in surprise.

    "Do I have time for that?" Li Zhen looked around and slowly said, "Just joking with her. She wanted me to work overtime at the studio. I wanted to let her taste some baseless overtime first."

    Recently Jiang Kening had been buzzing around her like a fly, causing her trouble!

    And today, she even proudly flipped her off!

    She couldn''t swallow this insult!

    "Awesome, Li Zhen! In a pce drama, you could at least make it to the finale!" Meng Yuanjie was greatly impressed.

    "Will she keep waiting?" Zhang Xiya asked curiously.

    "She cares a lot about face. I said not leaving until we settle this. She''s afraid that if she leaves first and I show up, she''d be mocked as a coward." Li Zhen picked up her bag and winked at the two. "Let''s go, we''ll sneak out the back door."

    Li Zhen and Zhang Xiya left via the back door while Meng Yuanjie went to get the car and pick them up from the back.

    After driving out a few dozen meters, the three despaired!

    The road waspletely jammed!

    Gridlock!

    Meng Yuanjie howled to the sky after moving only 100 meters in 10 minutes. "Heavens, it wasn''t even this bad during the international exhibition! What''s going on today?"

    Both directions of the 8ne Tianfu Second Street were filled with cars heading to and fro.

    Li Zhen was getting ustrophobic just looking at the density.

    "Is there some huge event?" Zhang Xiya was also bored and rolled down the window.

    On thene across from them, a buff guy in an Audi had simply gotten out of his car.

    He was on the phoneining, "Tianfu Second Street''s jammed to hell. No idea how long it''ll take to get there. Go ahead and get cleaned up waiting for me at Seeking Love Hotel."

    The car behind him had a handsome livestreamer holding up his phone. "My dear viewers, can you understand this?"

    "The road''s filled with people rushing to see two beauty models fight. Traffic''spletely stuck and we can''t move!"

    "Don''t worry my viewers, I''ll fly my drone over first to see if the fight''s started."

    Li Zhen: ...

    Zhang Xiya: ...

    Meng Yuanjie: ...

    "My goodness! They''re all here for you, Little Li Zhen!" Zhang Xiya turned to look at her, absolutely shocked.

    Li Zhen was equally shocked. "I didn''t expect everyone to be so bored!"

 Chapter 56: Shirtless Brother

    <h4>Chapter 56</h4>

    An hourter, the three finally struggled out of Tianfu Second Street.

    When they arrived downstairs at Qiao Yi''s building, the three nimbly took the elevator and pressed the floor number.

    As soon as the door opened, an old woman''s voice echoing in the hallway entered their ears, "You dare to run away with my granddaughter again, it seems my son hasn''t beaten you enough yet!"

    This was followed by Qiao Yi''s sobbing voice, "Mom, I agree to the divorce, I don''t want anything, I just want Tuan Tuan."

    "You weren''t going to get anything anyway. You spent tens of thousands of my son''s moneyst year when you were sick, and then you got fat and don''t earn much money either. Of course you can''t take anything away, eating and drinking what''s my son''s."

    Li Zhen and the others'' faces hardened as soon as they heard this, and they quickly stepped out of the elevator.

    The hallway was already filled with crowds of people who hade to watch themotion after hearing the noise.

    Seeing that reasoning was futile, Qiao Yi gritted her teeth and hugged Tuan Tuan, then turned to run.

    But after just two steps, the old woman grabbed her by the hair and shouted, "Hey! Broad daylight kidnapping! Everyonee see, it''s a human trafficker... Ow!"

    The old woman suddenly cried out in pain as someone grabbed her hair and pulled her back a few steps. Looking back, it was a young man. "Who are you? Are you this cheap slut Qiao Yi''s lover?"

    If it wasn''t for her age, Meng Yuanjie would have pped her by now.

    He let go of the old woman''s hair and asked Qiao Yi, "Qiao Yi, are you okay?"

    At the same time, Li Zhen and Zhang Xiya had already nked Qiao Yi protectively on either side.

    Seeing her good friends suddenly appear, Qiao Yi instantly couldn''t hold back her sobs.

    The four or five-year-old little girl in Qiao Yi''s arms had teary eyes. "Uncle, auntie, it''s grandma and dad who want to lock up my mom. Can you help my mom drive grandma away?"

    The old woman yelled loudly, "Hey, outsiders, mind your own business! Your parents are getting divorced, you can only follow your dad. Don''t worry about your useless mom."

    As she spoke, the old woman came forward again, trying to snatch the child.

    Li Zhen swiftly shielded Qiao Yi behind her. "This is my friend''s home. You are trespassing and trying to abduct the child. Should you leave, or should I call the police to take you away?"

    "What trespassing, this is my son''s house, my house!" the old woman snarled.

    "As long as Qiao Yi is your son''s wife for one day, she has the right to live here for one day! If you don''t leave, I''m calling the police." Li Zhen didn''t back down an inch, staring straight at the old woman.

    The neighbors around were whispering amongst themselves.

    "This family really has no conscience, looking down on their daughter-inw for not giving them a son and not making money."

    "Wanting her to leave with nothing, how heartless."

    "Her husband is no good either, better for her to leave."

    Seeing no one was on her side, the old woman''s face turned red and green. She threw out a "wait until my son gets back to deal with you all" before hastily leaving.

    Li Zhen and the others helped Qiao Yi and Tuan Tuan into the apartment.

    After crying for a while, Qiao Yi finally exined everything clearly.

    Early this morning, Qiao Yi had identally seen a message on her husband Xiao Tai''s phone from a woman asking him to meet at a hotel. When Qiao Yi confronted him, Xiao Tai directly asked for a divorce, but wanted the house, car, child, and everything else.

    Qiao Yi wanted their child, so Xiao Tai grabbed her phone and locked her inside the house, demanding she sign to agree to leave with nothing before releasing her. Of course Qiao Yi wouldn''t sign. It wasn''t until her mother-inw picked up Tuan Tuan from school and brought her home that Tuan Tuan managed to sneak Qiao Yi out when her grandma wasn''t paying attention.

    Zhang Xiya was so angry listening to this that her fists clenched. "What a scumbag husband! Where''s my knife?"

    On the side, Meng Yuanjie''s brows were furrowed as he yed with Tuan Tuan.

    Li Zhen was also angry, but quickly calmed down. "The divorce is necessary, but the one who should leave with nothing is Xiao Tai. We need to gather evidence of his affair!"

    "He''s already being cautious of me now. I won''t be able to find evidence," Qiao Yi said, having stopped crying.

    She still hadn''t recovered from what happened today, and her body was slightly shaking from the aftershock.

    Li Zhen thought for a moment. "Do you know which hotel he was meeting that woman at?"

    "I don''t know, it didn''t say in the message." Qiao Yi shook her head.

    Today was perhaps the only chance. Otherwise, who knew when that scumbag and slut would meet again next time. Let alone getting evidence.

    Just as the four were at a loss, Tuan Tuan stood on her tiptoes on the dining table, took down her parents'' wedding photo, and scribbled all over Xiao Tai''s face with crayon. "I don''t want dad anymore, dad is bad!"

    Li Zhen looked at the wedding photo, and her eyes suddenly lit up. "Xiya! Do you still remember that shirtless guy during the traffic jam?"

    "Oh!" Zhang Xiya smacked her forehead. "I thought he looked a little familiar at the time. That was Xiao Tai!"

    They had seen Xiao Tai once before at Zhonghai''s annualpany dinnerst year when employees could bring family.

    Thinking back on Xiao Tai''s phone call today, the two were practically in unison: "Weiqing Hotel!"

    Worried that Qiao Yi''s mother-inw woulde back to snatch the child, Meng Yuanjie, the only man left, stayed to apany Qiao Yi and her daughter.

    Zhang Xiya and Li Zhen hurried downstairs towards Weiqing Hotel.

    Once downstairs, the two were dumbfounded. In their hurry, they had forgotten to ask Meng Yuanjie for his car keys.

    Li Zhen raised her hand to hail a cab.

    A few secondster, a ck car stopped in front of them.

    The two quickly got in, Li Zhen in the passenger seat. As she buckled her seatbelt, she urged, "Weiqing Hotel, please hurry, sir. I''ll pay double the fare..."

    From the backseat, Zhang Xiya stuttered, "Lu... Lu..."

    Weiqing was a themed hotel, right next to the Zhonghai building, also on Tianfu Second Street.

    "There is a bit of traffic on that road today..." Li Zhen spoke faster, "So we need to hurry in case Xiao Tai is a premature man and we miss him."

    The driver calmly replied, "Alright, Miss Li Zhen, I''ll do my best."

    That voice was too familiar.

    A chill went down Li Zhen''s spine.

    Turning to look at the driver...

    It was Fei Zhao!

    Seeing ghosts in broad daylight!

    Zhang Xiya could barely squeeze the words out of her throat. "P...President Lu..."

    Li Zhen whipped around to look at the backseat.

    Lu Yanming sat gracefully, smiling at Zhang Xiya. "Hello."

    Li Zhen: ...

    Zhang Xiya: ...

    Zhang Xiya shrunk as far away as she could, trying to distance herself from the executive.

    She had leader awkwardness syndrome!

    Oh no, why did she get in the backseat earlier?

    Li Zhen was too shocked. "President Lu, what are you doing here?"

    Fei Zhao snorted twice.

    Wasn''t it because he knew about her fight appointment that the young master had been following her since she left home?

    Lu Yanming calmly said, "Just meeting a friend and happened to run into you two."

    "Then we''re holding you up from your important business, President Lu. We can just take a cab." Zhang Xiya quickly said.

    She just wanted to get out of the car and not sit awkwardly in the backseat with an executive.

    Lu Yanming faintly smiled. "I changed my mind. I''m rather interested in catching cheaters."

 Chapter 57: He is Doraemon

    <h4>Chapter 57</h4>

    Interested in catching cheaters?

    You must be interested in Li Zhen! Even Zhang Xiya didn''t have the heart to point out the big boss.

    Fei Zhao was skilled at driving in the congested Tianfu Second Street... No, he was as lifeless as a dead fish.

    "It''s too congested, congested to the point where we can''t move at all," Fei Zhao remained calm on the surface, but was freaking out on the inside.

    Li Zhen gritted her teeth and opened the car door, "I''ll run over first, you guys follow after."

    After saying that, she dashed off like the wind.

    Zhang Xiya was a little stunned, "But she doesn''t know the room number, so going over won''t help."

    -

    Miewei Hotel was a themed hotel, and most of the guests were couples.

    It was just the time when the lights had just turned on, and there were many peopleing and going.

    Li Zhen ran to the front desk of Miewei Hotel, panting heavily. She had an anxious look on her face and said, "Hello."

    The front desk was startled by the anxious state of the guest in front of her, "Hello, how may I help you?"

    "Please help me check which room Xiao Tai is in. He''s my brother. His heart rate monitoring watch is showing an abnormal signal, and I suspect he may be having a heart attack. I can''t reach him on his phone either." Li Zhen said urgently.

    The front desk attendant had a difficult expression on her face.

    From time to time, people woulde to the hotel trying to catch their partner cheating this way.

    Could this person be trying to fish for a room number?

    "Please help me check quickly. Otherwise if something happens to my brother, it would be a loss of life." Li Zhen urged again.

    "I''m sorry miss, no matter the situation, we cannot disclose guest room numbers."

    "Then can you please call his room and ask about his condition? That should be okay, right?"

    The front desk attendant hesitated, but eventually nodded, "Alright."

    Li Zhen watched as the front desk input the phone number. She instantly felt relieved.

    What she really wanted was the phone number.

    If she had directly asked for the number, they definitely wouldn''t have agreed. So Li Zhen started with an unreasonable request to lookup the room number first, then asked to make a call. Feeling guilty and wanting to make up for it, the front desk was more likely to agree to the second request.

    Before the call connected, Li Zhen reached out and hung up. She smiled brightly and sincerely, "I suddenly remembered my sister-inw is with my brother. I can contact her instead, thank you."

    Front desk: ......

    Li Zhen pretended to be making a phone call and walked toward the elevator area.

    Once she was out of sight of the front desk, she stopped a passing hotel security guard, "Hello, can you help me with something?"

    "What can I do for you miss?" The hotel security guard stopped right away.

    "My boyfriend called and asked me toe over, but he forgot to tell me the room number. He''s using the roomndline since his phone is dead. Could you help me check which room this is?"

    Li Zhen looked up at him expectantly, showing the guard the phone number on her phone.

    The guard''s heart thumped rapidly. The girl in front of him was so pretty.

    In a daze, he said, "That''s room 1203."

    "Okay, thank you!" Li Zhen nodded politely with a slight lift of her brows to express her gratitude.

    But when the guard looked behind her, his eyes cracked in shock. "You...you have three people with you today?"

    This beauty is into some freaky stuff?

    Li Zhen''s brows jumped in surprise as she looked back in confusion.

    How was Lu Yanming behind her!

    No wonder the guard misunderstood!

    Li Zhen awkwardly covered her eyes...

    She said she was here to see her boyfriend, but had another man with her. How does that look?

    "Miss, isn''t it not so good to have three people in a rtionship? Love between three would be very crowded..." said the guard, his face as colorful as a palette.

    "Although not good, it''s because of you," Li Zhen looked gently at the guard.

    "Because of me? What does this have to do with me!" The guard jumped back in shock.

    "Yes, what does this have to do with you!" Li Zhen''s brows tilted up slightly, a faint smile escaping from her throat.

    Lu Yanming was a little stunned, a very faint smile curling from his throat.

    Under the guard''s horrified gaze, Li Zhen pulled Lu Yanming into the elevator and pressed 12.

    "Mr. Lu, you should have said something when you followed me in," Li Zhen grumbled. If she had known he was there, she would have used a different excuse to avoid misunderstanding by the guard.

    "I sent you a message, but you didn''t see it," Lu Yanming exined sincerely in a clean, low voice. Even if he was really at fault, it made people lose any thought of ming him.

    Li Zhen rubbed her ears, "Oh okay."

    Luckily everything went rtively smoothly so far without wasting too much time. Being misunderstood was awkward, but she hoped they could make it in time.

    The two arrived on the twelfth floor and stood in front of room 1203.

    Thinking about what disgusting things Qiao Yi''s husband was doing inside with another woman made Li Zhen want to vomit.

    Li Zhen sent Zhang Xiya a message: [Found it, they''re in room 1203.]

    Zhang Xiya: [Awesome! How did you find it? Sherlock Li?]

    Li Zhen proudly: [Piece of cake.]

    Zhang Xiya: [Then how will you get into the room? You need to get in to catch them in the act and take photos.]

    She was right, how would she get into the room? Li Zhen furrowed her brows.

    She looked up at the tall Lu Yanming beside her. Should she get him to barge in? No, if he got hurt from it, she wouldn''t be able to affordpensating thepany''s vice president.

    Just then, a room attendant got off on the 12th floor.

    Li Zhen''s eyes lit up and she quickly waved to call her over, "Sister!"

    The room attendant hurried over, "Yes miss?"

    Li Zhen pretended as if she had juste out of the room to head out. "Could you please clean room 1203? I''m going to grab ate night snack thene back."

    Lu Yanming stood silently next to her, following along with her act and walking out with her.

    "Sure." The room attendant took out the key card after the guests left.

    With a "beep", the door opened.

    Right at that moment, Li Zhen swiftly turned back and rushed into the room with her camera raised, "You cheating dog man and woman! You..."

    Li Zhen froze!

    The room was empty!

    The room attendant''s motions froze at the doorway.

    The room attendant and woman stared at each other awkwardly.

    Room attendant: ......

    Li Zhen: ......

    The room attendant shooed her out!

    -

    Li Zhen and Lu Yanming were chased by the room attendant to the elevator.

    As the elevator descended linearly, so did Li Zhen''s mood. "What should we do? Catching cheaters is so difficult, they already left."

    "They didn''t leave. They just went out to buy some sex toys." Lu Yanming raised his hand and massaged the fair and delicate nape of her neck.

    After the high-pressure rush in this short time, Li Zhen had been feeling unwell. Lu Yanming''s force was gentle and appropriate, immediately rxing her a lot.

    Her emotions calmed down a bit as she softly murmured infort, "That''s possible too."

    "It''s not a guess."

    "Not a guess?"

    "Fei Zhao checked the hotel surveince footage. The conversation between the two was very clear." Lu Yanming showed Li Zhen the message Fei Zhao sent him.

    After Li Zhen got off the elevator, Lu Yanming and Fei Zhao followed her into the hotel, leaving only Zhang Xiya waiting in the car.

    Li Zhen was delighted!

    The cheating couple woulde back after buying stuff. She still had hope of obtaining evidence today.

    But the next second, Li Zhen became dejected again. "Unfortunately we can''t get into that room! Just having surveince of them entering and leaving the hotel isn''t very useful."

    Right after Li Zhen finished speaking, the elevator arrived on the first floor. The doors opened and Fei Zhao respectfully handed over a card and small box, "Miss Li, this is the key card for room 1203, and this is a miniature camera."

    Li Zhen''s mouth formed an "O" shape in exaggeration.

    Seeing no reaction from Li Zhen, Lu Yanming took them.

    The elevator doors closed again and slowly ascended to the 12th floor.

    It took Li Zhen a very long time to react. "Mr. Lu, Assistant Fei, where did you recruit him from? Is he Doraemon?"

    Able to produce anything she needed!

    "You''ll have to ask him that," Lu Yanming chuckled lightly.

 Chapter 58: Have you ever thought about Joie

    <h4>Chapter 58</h4>

    Li Zhen and Lu Yanming got out of the elevator, and Lu Yanming swiped open the door to the room.

    Li Zhen looked around, trying to find the best ce to hide a camera.

    She hadn''t looked closely when they first entered, but now at a second nce, Li Zhen almost gagged.

    In the middle of the room was a huge waterbed, its rippling blue lights reflecting off the undting waves,plementing the dizzying rock music ying. The water sloshed suggestively, highly stimting.

    Before leaving, Xiao Tai must have had quite a few passionate rounds with his mistress, leaving the taste of sticky intimacy all over the room.

    Scattered shreds of skimpy clothingy on the floor.

    It was aplete mess.

    Suppressing the urge to vomit, she tried to position the camera under the TV set-top box.

    Just as she was fiddling with it, there was a sudden "beep" of a keycard unlocking the door.

    Before Li Zhen could react, Lu Yanming grabbed her and pulled her into a nearby closet.

    The next second, the door opened.

    "Baby, hurry and take out the xxx we just bought." Xiao Tai''s disgusting voice carried a nauseating musk.

    A familiar coy female voice responded, "Oh no, I don''t want that. You''re enough to satisfy me, I don''t need it."

    Li Zhen''s whole body shook.

    That voice!

    Zhang Yucui!

    How could it be her!

    Coming to her senses, Li Zhen quickly took out her phone to start recording through the narrow slit of the closet.

    Themed hotel closets were just for show anyway, and the space was extremely cramped.

    Especially with Lu Yanming''s nearly 6''2" frame, they were squeezed inside with barely any gap. There was scarcely any air left.

    Li Zhen lifted up her phone, the back of her hand brushing Lu Yanming''s lean, muscr chest as she struggled to hold it up.

    She noticed the man behind her tense up slightly.

    "Mr. Lu, I didn''t mean to, there''s just no space." Li Zhen didn''t dare use her vocal cords, instead whispering softly.

    The sting rock music in the room drowned out any sounds from outside.

    What Li Zhen didn''t know was that her whispering was aimed right at Lu Yanming''s neck. The soft, warm breaths spraying his sensitive Adam''s apple.

    Lu Yanming''s whole body grew hot. He tilted his head back, but there was nowhere to retreat in this cramped space.

    "Mm." Lu Yanming nodded to show he understood.

    Li Zhen turned her head back, continuing to monitor the situation in the room.

    Xiao Tai pped Zhang Yucui hard. "Don''t want it? Just now you were moaning for me to make you climax, saying to go out and buy something more fun. Stop pretending in front of me, lift your hips, lift them higher, I''ll help you!"

    Next, Zhang Yucui cried out in ecstasy, "Ah...baby, I love it so much!"

    The scene was too explosive.

    Li Zhen''s scalp tingled.

    But then, Li Zhen turned back in disbelief at the man behind her, still whispering, "Mr. Lu, you''re...poking my lower back."

    Damn! Mr. Lu, could you please control your reactions better!

    "Sorry." Lu Yanming''s expression was calm, with no loss of elegance.

    But his breathing was noticeably heavier, the swirling air scorching hot, instantly heating up the cramped space.

    She was already in his arms, an extremely intimate distance.

    His overwhelming presence and breaths at her ear gave Li Zhen the illusion of beingpletely possessed by him.

    "Mr. Lu, you''re too close to me." Li Zhen was extremely awkward, her hand holding the phone shivering uncontrobly.

    The couple outside kept changing positions, moaning filthily!

    Li Zhen wanted to go out and p them both.

    "Limited space, I don''t mean to." Lu Yanming repeated her earlier words, hisrge palm grasping her hand and phone together. "Don''t shake."

    Li Zhen wanted to cry but had no tears.

    It wasn''t like she wanted to shake! She just had never experienced such a bizarre situation in her 26 years of life.

    She was very flustered!

    Just as she was at a loss...

    Bang!

    The closet door was suddenly pulled open from outside!

    "Who''s there!" Xiao Tai''s furious voice exploded. "F*ck, hiding and secretly filming without a sh! Think I''m dead?"

    The space froze instantly.

    Li Zhen: ......

    Zhang Yucui: ......

    Zhang Yucui''s shrill voice pierced the heavens, filled with shock and terror. "Li Zhen! Why are you here?!"

    Li Zhen: What is this situation! She identally turned on her phone shlight!

    Serves herself right for being so dumb.

    "You know her?" Xiao Tai frowned, sizing the two up and down. "So it''s that bitch Qiao Yi who sent you? I won''t waste time with you two, you''re Qiao Yi''s friends? Give me your phones, I''ll give you 10,000 yuan."

    "10,000 yuan?" Li Zhen almostughed. "Add ten more zeros and I''ll consider it!"

    "Filthy bitch! All brazen shamelessness!" Xiao Tai''s eyes darkened as he lunged to grab Li Zhen''s phone.

    But before he could touch it...

    Li Zhen, Xiao Tai, and Zhang Yucui all sensed a swooshing sound cutting through the air.

    Lu Yanming raised his hand, neatly rolling up his suit sleeve, his long, powerful fingers clenching into a fist that punched forward with the weight of a thousand pounds, moving so fast it left afterimages.

    In that instant, the clear, crisp sound of bones shattering rang out.

    Chilling to the bone.

    Xiao Tai didn''t even have time to react before letting out a muffled grunt, his tall body crashing heavily to the ground like a pile of soft flesh.

    "Ah!" Zhang Yucui screamed in fright, copsing to the floor.

    Li Zhen mechanically turned her head, her voice pitching unnaturally. "Mr....Mr. Lu, you...do you have domestic violence tendencies?"

    The person she had recently been sleeping next to actually had such terrifying explosive power.

    Li Zhen was a little scared!

    No, very scared!

    The psychological shadow of being strangled by Yu Sheng was still there!

    "Don''t worry, I don''t." Lu Yanming brushed off his wrinkled suit, his light eyes behind his sses gentle and proper, behaving impably as always.

    As if it was someone else who had just punched Xiao Tai.

    "Then what about him..." Li Zhen quivered, pointing at the man on the ground.

    Lu Yanming: "He might have a concussion, but it''s nothing serious."

    That''s good, that''s good!

    "Let''s go then." Li Zhen tightly gripped her phone, relieved.

    With the video from earlier, Qiao Yi would be able to get everything back, including Tuantuan.

    She took a step forward, but Zhang Yucui suddenly knelt before her, wailing, "Li Zhen, please have mercy on me, don''t tell anyone else about this, okay?"

    Li Zhen stopped in her tracks. "Have mercy on you? Did you think of Qiao Yi when happily cavorting with Xiao Tai in bed?!"

 Chapter 59: The Old Manâ€™s Sorrow, Who knows

    <h4>Chapter 59</h4>

    Zhang Yucui had already turned pale with fright. "Li Zhen, please give me one more chance. I won''t provoke Xiao Tai anymore, please believe me!"

    "No, I want you to keep provoking him," Li Zhen raised her eyebrows and said.

    Zhang Yucui was stunned.

    Li Zhen: "Because the two of you are so perfect for each other. The Matchmaker has done a great job categorizing trash! I wish you a hundred years of affection and mutual torment until you grow old."

    Li Zhen''s words pierced Zhang Yucui''s heart.

    She slumped to the ground, looking up at Li Zhen, hating her bitterly.

    Who was Li Zhen to interfere in her business!

    Li Zhen looked coldly down at Xiao Tai lying on the ground and reminded him in a cold voice, "When he wakes up, tell him that Qiao Yi has decided to divorce him, but she will keep everything in the family and he will leave with nothing."

    With that, Li Zhen turned and left.

    Outside Qiao Yi¡¯s apartment, Fei Zhao parked the car and Li Zhen and Zhang Xiya went upstairs.

    After this back and forth trip, it was veryte, and Tuan Tuan had already gone to bed.

    In the living room, Meng Yuanjie immediately got up and opened the door when he heard the knock.

    Seeing them at the door, Qiao Yi asked in a trembling voice, "Did you get the evidence?"

    She was so afraid.

    Afraid there was no evidence. Afraid she wouldn''t get custody of Tuan Tuan in the divorce.

    Li Zhen nodded, "Got it."

    An immense weight lifted from Qiao Yi''s heart and she burst into loud sobs.

    Today, from discovering that text message this morning, to the fight and decision to divorce, to being locked up.

    The events of one day had effortlessly rewritten her life.

    Thank goodness, thank goodness there was evidence and she could stay with Tuan Tuan.

    Having Tuan Tuan was enough!

    Qiao Yi looked up, wiped away her tears, "Let me see the video."

    "Forget it, you shouldn''t watch it," Zhang Xiya bit her lip, hesitating to continue. "The woman is Zhang Yucui. What they did was too disgusting. Just keep it, don''t watch."

    Zhang Xiya was afraid that if Qiao Yi watched, she might never be able to forget it.

    Watching her husband fool around with a colleague she saw every day would be too cruel for Qiao Yi.

    "Zhang Yucui?" Qiao Yi murmured.

    So it was her.

    Qiao Yi was very surprised, but it didn''t matter anymore. Now that she knew what Xiao Tai was really like, she had no feelings about whoever the mistress was.

    -

    Back home with Lu Yanming, after her shower Li Zhen sat on the sofa staring expectantly at him.

    She had been busy all day and just wanted to go straight to bed.

    But Qiao Yi¡¯s situation had woken her up again, men really couldn''t be relied on.

    What could you rely on?

    Of course, shares!

    Lu Yanming was busy with his side gig again. Li Zhen sat quietly beside him, her eyes full of anticipation.

    The little umbre was ready, how much longer would he be busy?

    Li Zhen''s intense gaze eventually made Lu Yanming nce her way. "What''s up?"

    "Does President Lu want to flip the card tonight?" Li Zhen''s eyes lifted alluringly, shining bright and obedient under themplight.

    Li Zhen¡¯s meaning was blunt yet tantalizing.

    "Let me see the card first to check if it¡¯s to my liking, then we''ll discuss other things." Lu Yanming removed his sses with a smile.

    "It''s just this one card, you¡¯ll definitely like it." Li Zhen held out her right hand, palm down.

    Lu Yanming got up, his tall shadow enveloping her.

    "Let me see..." He grasped her soft little hand and turned it over. "It''s her again?"

    "President Lu, variety is the spice of life..."

    Before Li Zhen could finish speaking, Lu Yanming had already leaned down to sweep her up in his arms, chuckling, "How nice, it''s her again!"

    The sudden weightlessness made Li Zhen reflexively put her arms around Lu Yanming''s neck.

    Li Zhen thought to herself, the inte was right after all. A little adult flirting and the man loses self-control immediately.

    Once in the bedroom, Li Zhen was ced on the bed.

    She immediately sat up and grabbed the little umbre from the bedside table. Not waiting for Lu Yanming to say anything, she had already ripped open the packaging with a "swish".

    Enduring difort and embarrassment, she pinched it out and handed it to Lu Yanming. "President Lu..."

    Lu Yanming didn''t take it. His clear eyes silently gazed at her. "I don''t know how, you do it for me."

    Li Zhen: ...

    Alright!

    Her tool man was ying hard to get again.

    What else could she do but indulge him?

    Jincheng has a rainy summer.

    Li Zhen slowly helped him out, and soon the sound of rain came from outside the window.

    Two hourster, Li Zhen felt her waist would break.

    Her hair was matted with sweat on her forehead and behind her ears. Her whole body felt as if she had just been fished out of the water.

    Her voice was hoarse and changed in tone, weak and breathless.

    "President Lu, it''s been raining for two hours now..."

    "So?" Lu Yanming looked down at her.

    The line of the man''s jaw was sharp, and beads of scalding sweat flowed down his cheek to his jawline.

    Then with a "drip" it slid straight down andnded on Li Zhen''s fair and delicate back.

    The heat made her shiver.

    The next morning, Fei Zhao parked the car at the door.

    Li Zhen followed Lu Yanming into the back seat and sat expressionlessly.

    Usually when Li Zhen was there, the car was quite lively.

    But today Li Zhen and the young master were very quiet.

    Fei Zhao looked at them puzzledly in the rearview mirror.

    What was going on?

    Weren¡¯t they fine yesterday?

    Single Fei Zhao couldn¡¯t help butment, love is soplicated!

    "Young Master, on the table is the breakfast I bought for you. Why don''t you and Miss Li eat it while it''s hot?" Fei Zhao wanted to break the silence.

    There was a retractable small table in front of the back seat.

    On it were several delicate breakfast items.

    Lu Yanming only took a ss of milk and held it out to Li Zhen. "If you don''t want to eat, at least drink some milk."

    Li Zhen turned her head away, ignoring him.

    Lu Yanming took the milk back and leaned in close to her, his voice lowered. "Last night you were screaming ¡®hubby you''re so good¡¯, and this morning you''re giving me the cold shoulder?"

    Fei Zhao: ...What is the young master saying, why not out loud? Is it because I don''t have a membership so I can''t hear?

    Li Zhen: ...

    First thing in the morning! Why did he have to bring that up!

    She was already furious, how dare he mention it!

    Last night she had gently reminded Lu Yanming that he had gone on too long. But he had pretended not to understand and asked her "So?"

    She had wanted to get out of bed right then.

    But she had long lost her strength from his torment, let alone getting out of bed, even turning over was difficult.

    So she suddenly remembered those online tutorials, where one sentence could make your husband finish his battle.

    She had hoarsely cried out "hubby you''re so good", and the result was...

    He got excited.

    She was done for.

    Flipped over again and again like a pancakete into the night.

    Yesterday she had been tired all day already, and didn''t get proper rest at night. Waking up early with panda eyes! Of course she''d be in a bad mood!

    At the office, Li Zhen first called Qiao Yi.

    She found out Xiao Tai was still in the hospital, and they had arranged to handle the divorce that afternoon.

    Previously Tuan Tuan had been dropped off and picked up by Xiao Tai¡¯s mother. Now Qiao Yi needed to find a nanny she could trust to look after Tuan Tuan. And there were many other things to arrange after the divorce, so she took three days off.

    Li Zhen heaved a long sigh of relief, as long as things went smoothly for Qiao Yi.

    In therge conference room, Macrosea''s senior management was having their weekly Tuesday meeting.

    Near the end of the meeting, Wang Peng cleared his throat and said, "Let me remind everyone about something."

    "Recently, some departments have had issues ofx regtions andck of employee solidarity, bringing lots of negative impact to thepany!"

    "From filming idents to employees fighting..."

    Everyone nced in unison at Ren Zongshun.

    Who they were talking about was obvious.

    Ren Zongshun kept his head down, not daring to say a word, obediently taking the criticism.

    "If this keeps up, won''t thepany be a big mess? How can this be allowed!" Wang Peng got more agitated the more he spoke.

    He had been much busier this period than his entire previous year.

    He just wanted to rx and enjoy his retirement, not spin around the small advertising department like a top.

    Who understood the sorrows of an old man!

 Chapter 60: And I, Iâ€™m not bound by rules.

    <h4>Chapter 60</h4>

    "How can there be an employee who took three days off without giving a reason? Is it so casual to take leave in thispany?" Wang Peng angrily held a paper leave application form.

    The whole conference room was suppressed by Wang Peng''s sudden anger, and no one dared to make a sound.

    As the boss, Wang Peng relied on his real skills to climb up step by step. He was strong-wristed and had an unprovokable temper when he was young.

    His temper has improved a lot in recent years. Most of the time, he is gentle. But once he loses his temper, everyone is scared to death.

    Ren Zongshun quickly said, "Mr. Wang, that employee did have something going on at home."

    Hearing Ren Zongshun''s exnation, Wang Peng wanted to scold even more. "Something going on, just two words can take leave. In the future, can everyone take leave casually!"

    "I asked Manager Ren to approve it," Lu Yanming suddenly spoke up in the quiet conference room. "She has something important to deal with at home."

    The executives were shocked. They thought the new deputy general manager was asking for trouble.

    But they saw Wang Peng said seriously: "That''s why the leaders in thepany have to care for their subordinates like Yanming does, so that we can work together. Everyone should learn from Mr. Lu more."

    Everyone: ......

    Are you the grandmaster of Sichuan opera face changing?

    Oh, I forgot.

    Recently, Mr. Wang has almost been with this new deputy general manager all the time.

    The two have a deep rtionship. Mr. Wang doesn''t hide his special treatment of Mr. Lu at all.

    "I think it''s not good to learn from Mr. Lu," Yu Sheng''s voice suddenly rang out.

    Everyone was shocked again. Mr. Wang just said it casually. Why did Mr. Yu take it so seriously?

    Yu Sheng lifted his eyes and looked at Lu Yanming coldly, "Of course caring for subordinates is right, but an employee in the advertising department taking leave still needs Mr. Lu to get involved personally, which is somewhat inappropriate."

    "The advertising department is one of the departments I directly oversee. What''s inappropriate about it?" There was only a thin smile on Lu Yanming''s indifferent face.

    Yu Sheng''s eyebrows sank, "Even so, caring for grassroots employees is not what a deputy general manager should do."

    Lu Yanming: "For example?"

    "For example, apanying a subordinate to a cafe to meet friends privately."

    The conference room instantly fell silent.

    There''s gossip!

    From Mr. Yu''s words, did the deputy general manager meet someone from the advertising department privately?

    With someone from the advertising department, it must be a female model with good figure and appearance!

    Everyone''s brains spun quickly to guess.

    In the "Gentlemen''s Banquet" WeChat group, this news also exploded the group. [Sisters, first-hand news. Mr. Lu is dating someone from the advertising department!]

    [What! Someone is eating alone!]

    [I''m the first one to disagree with their rtionship.]

    [What rtionship? Marriage?]

    [My God, it turns out Mr. Lu is already married and has children!]

    Rumors have grown exponentially and spread to every corner of thepany.

    In the conference room, the atmosphere was as cold as frozen.

    But the gossip-loving executives looked at Yu Sheng eagerly: Mr. Yu, please say more! What else do you know?

    "Mr. Yu doesn''t make much sense. Has Mr. Yu forgotten his own words?" Lu Yanming looked leisurely with azy tone. He slowly said, "Thepany should not be like the Song Dynasty, emphasizing separation between men and women."

    Lu Yanming returned these words to Yu Sheng verbatim.

    Yu Sheng''s eyebrows sank.

    The air turned colder!

    "Dismiss the meeting, dismiss the meeting!" Wang Peng immediately said rigidly and eagerly.

    Then he stared with big eyes, wandering hesitantly between the two.

    What''s up with them again?

    What zodiac signs are they? Why don''t they get along?

    When Wang Peng dismissed the meeting, there was not a stir in the conference room.

    Everyone remained in their seats, gossiping and staring at Lu Yanming and Yu Sheng.

    Wang Peng: ......

    Thepany can issue a policy to deduct performance for overtime work. It''s very reasonable for him to deduct performance for gossiping!

    These guys!

    "What are you all stunned for? No more work?" Wang Peng said angrily.

    Now no one dared to watch the excitement anymore. They hurried out.

    Until everyone left, Yu Sheng strode to Lu Yanming and said, "Mr. Lu, there should still be some distance between top leaders and junior employees. You should understand this subtlety in your position."

    Lu Yanming stood up.

    When the two tall and straight men stood face to face, the oppressive aura they emitted was too strong.

    "Subtlety is for people who follow the rules," Lu Yanming stepped past Yu Sheng and walked out, "But I never restrain myself within the rules."

    He didn''t even nce at Yu Sheng again.

    The sound of Lu Yanming''s leather shoes faded away.

    Yu Sheng looked back with cold eyes at his back.

    Lu Yanming''s attitude left him no clue. Does the new deputy general manager really have some ideas about Li Zhen? Or are the two just coincidental encounters?

    Yu Sheng sighed heavily. Perhaps he has been too sensitive about Li Zhen''s matters recently. On careful thought, no matter which answer, it doesn''t matter.

    When Li Zhen was in college, was there a shortage of pursuers around her? But her heart was always his.

    He''s just a new undisciplined deputy general manager.

    What does he have to worry about?

    At lunch in the employee canteen.

    Li Zhen happily drank chilled pumpkin green bean soup.

    "Thepany''s food is really good!" Meng Yuanjie eximed.

    "Drinking chilled soup on a hot summer day, it''s simply too happy." Zhang Xiya gulped down several big mouthfuls.

    At this moment, two people holding trays walked past them. "Who do you think is Mr. Lu''s marriage partner in the advertising department?"

    "I don''t know?"

    As the two chatted and walked by, there was a "puff" sound...

    Zhang Xiya spit out arge mouthful, "What! Mr. Lu is married!"

    Wasn''t Mr. Lu pursuing little Li Zhen?

    Li Zhen: ......

    Her eyelids twitched violently.

    The news that she married Lu Yanming has spread!

    No way!

    Then wouldn''t she be fired and fined?

    "Li Zhen wasn''t in the group. Xiya, didn''t you see the group?" Meng Yuanjie said calmly, "This is just a little gossip circting in the Gentlemen''s Banquet group. Everyone is just kidding around. No one really believes it."

    After Meng Yuanjie said this, Li Zhen instantly rxed. Close call, that was terrifying!

    But in an instant, all three felt a chill down their backs.

    Why did they feel like everyone in the canteen was looking at them?

    Just as the three were wondering, a tall and straight figure sat down next to Li Zhen.

    Lu Yanming put down his tray, nced at the three with pupils splitting, and smiled faintly, "Is the soup tasty? I''ll have a bowl too if it''s tasty."

    Li Zhen waspletely dumbfounded.

    Meng Yuanjie was so shocked that he mechanically nodded, "Tasty!"

    Meng Yuanjie and Zhang Xiya only had one thought: is Mr. Lu nning to announce his pursuit of Li Zhen?

    Lu Yanming got up and scanned the canteen.

    Everyone immediately lowered their heads to eat!

    Yu Sheng mentioned subtlety to him?

    Lu Yanming thought he would show Yu Sheng his subtlety.

 Chapter 61: Sorry, Wrong way.

    <h4>Chapter 61</h4>

    Lu Yanming walked to the food serving window. Behind him in the huge hall, the people were like statuesing to life instantly, chirping and buzzing like flies!

    "Why did President Lu sit next to those people from the advertising department?"

    "I don''t know! Could what people said in the group chat be true?"

    "Who are those two female colleagues at the table?"

    "I didn''t get a chance to shoot my shot. The hot guy can''t be gone just like that, right? Wuwuwuwuwu, I''m not convinced!"

    Lu Yanming took some soup and turned around...

    Everyone in the hall was eating quietly, with only the slight sound of bowls and chopsticks colliding.

    It was peaceful.

    He walked to the dining table, but someone else was sitting in his original seat.

    Wang Peng was eating with relish. He looked up and saw him, "Yanming, what are you staring for? Come sit!"

    When it was time to eat, Wang Peng went to Lu Yanming''s office to find him, but he was already gone. He didn''t expect that he had abandoned him and went to eat first.

    Lu Yanming was silent for a moment.

    Then he sat down next to Meng Yuanjie.

    This position was closer to Li Zhen across from him.

    Although the air conditioner was on in the cafeteria, Li Zhen felt like she was sweating all over.

    Why did President Lue sit at this table for no reason!

    She didn''t even dare look around. Her colleagues'' zing gossiping gazes were too hot!

    Wasn''t he being too obvious?

    In the "Macho Feast" group chat, messages exploded one after another.

    [It can''t be what I''m thinking, right?]

    [I feel so disappointed! But it''s nice to see the big boss and the little employee fall in love!]

    [President Lu is so brave! In so many years at Macro Ocean, this is the first time I''ve been able to ship someone at thepany!]

    [Don''t say that! President Lu and that girl with long curly hair look so good together!]

    [Yes, yes! You know what I mean!]

    This was the first time Wang Peng had sat together with grassroots employees to eat.

    It didn''t feel bad.

    "Director Wang," Lu Yanming suddenly spoke up, "this iced soup is pretty good, I rmend you try it too."

    "Oh? Then let me go grab a bowl." Wang Peng got up and walked towards the food serving window.

    With the seat empty, Lu Yanming sat next to Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen: ......

    Meng Yuanjie: ......

    Zhang Xiya: ...Is he being so tant?

    Li Zhen leaned slightly towards Lu Yanming and whispered with knitted brows, "President Lu, don''t get so close to me in thepany!"

    "Why not?"

    He knew perfectly well but still pretended not to know! Li Zhen was panicking inside but smiled and said, "Check the employee handbook."

    "Oh," Lu Yanming responded lightly.

    Li Zhen felt like copsing inside. Oh? That''s it? At least move a little!

    Wang Peng came back with a bowl of soup. He paused and said, "Where was I sitting just now? Why do I feel like this seat is wrong?"

    Both Meng Yuanjie and Zhang Xiya couldn''t help ncing at Lu Yanming.

    The person in question was leisurely drinking his soup,pletelyposed.

    No matter where he sat it was the same. Wang Peng didn''t dwell on it and plopped down on the seat.

    Zhao Yan apanied Yu Sheng into the employee cafeteria. Upon entering, they were shocked by the spectacr scene before them.

    Whether it was people getting food or leaving the cafeteria after eating, they all walked past the same table in the corner.

    The huge cafeteria was left with only that one path.

    That aisle was already jam-packed with people.

    It was even more congested than Tianfu Second Street yesterday!

    "President Yu, this is so strange..." As soon as Zhao Yan started to gossip, he was struck dumb the next second.

    That was...

    President Lu and Li Zhen!

    Yu Sheng followed Zhao Yan''s gaze. His expression turned cold.

    Had his earlier reminder not been direct enough?

    Did Lu Yanming not understand?

    "Hmph!" Yu Sheng let out a coldugh. He strode towards them, an icy oppressive aura surrounding him like frost.

    Zhao Yan was so scared he pulled him back. "President Yu, you shouldn''t go over. So many people here are watching."

    Yu Sheng nced back at him, his eyes a bit cold.

    Zhao Yan let go of his hand. When the boss was unhappy about something, advice was useless.

    Yu Sheng continued forward, his gaze fixed on Lu Yanming and Li Zhen. But he had barely taken two steps when Zhao Yan stopped him again.

    Zhao Yan held up his phone. "President Yu, I just saw in the group chat that President Lu is pursuing Qiao Yi from the advertising department. Could there be some misunderstanding?"

    "Qiao Yi?" Yu Sheng looked puzzled.

    Originally, Zhao Yan wanted to show him the message directly from the group chat, but this group name "Macho Feast" was simply outrageous...

    Zhao Yan put away his phone. "In a gossip group chat, people just said they got insider news. Yesterday President Lu helped Qiao Yi deal with something at her home, and today he went directly to her supervisor to help ask for leave. He seems close with Qiao Yi, so it makes sense he would interact with Li Zhen because of that."

    So that was it.

    Yu Sheng''s sharp brows rxed slightly. He nced at Li Zhen then withdrew his gaze.

    After eating this meal under the scrutiny of all, Li Zhen felt exhausted. She walked upstairs to the advertising department with Zhang Xiya and Meng Yuanjie. In the elevator, they encountered Sister Song.

    "Sister Song," the three of them greeted her.

    When Sister Song saw Li Zhen, her eyes immediately lit up. "Li Zhen, you know about President Lu''s matter, right?"

    Li Zhen''s back went cold. She said guardedly, "Sister Song, what matter with President Lu? I don''t know anything."

    It was over! Sister Song must be asking about how President Lu apanied her to eat just now.

    Li Zhen was extremely anxious inside.

    But Sister Song justughed and asked, "You''re so close with Qiao Yi, how could you not know? Don''t hide anything from Sister Song. Come on, tell me everything..."

    Li Zhen was confused.

    What did she mean?

    President Lu and Qiao Yi?

    Li Zhen hurriedly shook her head. "No, Sister Song, you misunderstood..."

    Before she could finish speaking, Zhang Xiya covered her mouth. "Our dear Zhen Zhen, we absolutely can''t spread President Lu and Qiao Yi''s business around."

    What was Zhang Xiya saying?

    Li Zhen stared wide-eyed.

    "Hahahaha, I understand, I understand. I won''t ask anymore then." Hearing a satisfactory answer, Sister Song from the legal department got off the elevator.

    Li Zhen ripped Zhang Xiya''s hand away and said in astonishment, "Sister Song definitely misunderstood what you just said."

    "What else could I do? Better to let her misunderstand President Lu and Qiao Yi than to let them misunderstand President Lu and you, right?" Zhang Xiya spoke very profoundly. "When you have a clear conscience, you don''t fear crooked shadows. No matter how Qiao Yi and President Lu be hot gossip, they''ll just end up eating their words. It will blow over after a day or two."

    "But it''s different for you and President Lu. You can''t withstand deep probing..."

    Zhang Xiya was worried sick about them. President Lu wasn''t hiding anything at all now. Before, he would just eat out with them.

    But now, even at thepany cafeteria!

    "Xiya makes a good point," Meng Yuanjie deeply agreed.

    "Alright then," Li Zhen felt like her head was going to explode.

    Just what was her tool husband thinking today?

    After work, Li Zhen left thepany at a speed that could win a 100 meter sprint at a high school sports meet. She rushed home swiftly.

    Something was off with the tool''s state. She needed to have a good talk with him!

    If something like today happened two or three more times, her heart would stop from sheer fright.

    She rushed to the door and stuck her key in the lock.

    Suddenly, she sensed something was wrong.

    It was too quiet inside.

    Usually when she got home, Lu Yanming would have already cooked. This was an old residential area, so the sound istion wasn''t great. Shouldn''t he be cooking at this time?

    But then she thought, she dide home a bit early today. Calcting the time, Lu Yanming should still be on the way back.

    Li Zhen opened the door.

    She looked inside and her whole body stiffened in shock.

    The fallen TV, the tattered sofa cushions, the coffee table smashed in two...

    Over a dozen men in ck clothes and pants stood in the middle of the living room, hands sped as they looked up at her.

    Li Zhen smiled slightly. "Sorry, wrong ce."

    She elegantly closed the door with a smile.

    Damn it!

    Run!

 Chapter 62: Whatâ€™s Going on with You

    <h4>Chapter 62</h4>

    Li Zhen''s face was pale. She lifted her left foot to run, but the door was pulled open and her hair was grabbed and dragged into the room, thrown on the floor.

    Li Zhen was dazzled by the throw.

    Xiao Tai walked out from behind more than a dozen men, his head still wrapped in thick gauze. "Damn it, you slutty bitch! Weren''t you still so cocky yesterday? You f**king b**ch, talking nonsense again!"

    It took Li Zhen several good seconds to regain her senses.

    Her head was still dizzy.

    Xiao Tai held Li Zhen''s chin, forcing her to look up. "Where''s the man who beat me yesterday? Where is he?"

    "I don''t know."

    "You don''t know? He punched me for you yesterday. How could you not know where he is?"

    Xiao Tai got up and gritted his teeth. "The entire seafood market in Jin City''s south, my big brother and I run it. I''ve been selling fish for more than ten years, my heart is as cold as a fish knife. How dare he hit me! I''ll chop him up today!"

    Li Zhen: ...Big brother is so overdramatic!

    "Call him and tell him toe over!" Xiao Tai threw a cell phone next to Li Zhen. "If he doesn''te over... Do you see the dozen or so guys behind me? They''ll do to you what I did to Zhang Yucui yesterday if he doesn''te!"

    Li Zhen was instantly jolted sober.

    Even if she didn''t say where Lu Yanming was, wasn''t he already on his way home?

    No matter how good a fighter he was, could he really beat more than a dozen men by himself?

    She had to contact Lu Yanming!

    "Okay, I''ll call." Li Zhen picked up the phone, leaned on the sofa and struggled to stand up, looking unusually obedient.

    Just as Li Zhen dialed, Xiao Tai grabbed the phone back and threatened in a cold voice, "Wait, I advise you to be smart. You can''t say anything extra on the phone, just say seven words: I''m home,e quickly."

    Li Zhen frowned.

    It seemed this Xiao Tai wasn''t so stupid after all.

    Li Zhen said, "That''s too abrupt, he''ll definitely know something is wrong. Adding the nickname I normally call him would make it more natural."

    Seeing Li Zhen seriously discussing with him how to trick that man over, Xiao Tai felt cold inside. After all, a woman only cares about herself.

    They looked so proper, yet were even more twisted than him?

    Xiao Tai waved at a man next to him. "Go to her closet and find stockings to tie her hands up. Gag her mouth with one too."

    "No!" Li Zhen pleaded, "Can we not use stockings?"

    Even if they were her stockings, Li Zhen still found it very difficult to ept!

    "Are you the kidnapper or am I the kidnapper? Don''t negotiate with me!"

    "Brother Xiao Tai," Li Zhen called him sincerely. "The stocking gags on TV are fake. They don''t actually stay in at all. The tongue can push them out easily. Try tape instead."

    Xiao Tai looked at her suspiciously.

    But thinking about it, it did seem like something stuffed in the mouth could easily be pushed out. So Xiao Tai waved his hand again. "Find some tape."

    A man in ck brought tape. Xiao Tai ripped off a piece and was about to stick it on Li Zhen''s mouth.

    Li Zhen dodged back a little. "Brother Xiao Tai, actually tape doesn''t stick well either, because..."

    Xiao Tai stuck it on with a "p" and wrapped several circles around Li Zhen''s head.

    "Shut up! You talk too much!"

    Now Li Zhen really couldn''t speak.

    She also didn''t know if Lu Yanming understood her hints.

    He wouldn''t really just rush over blindly, would he?

    After ten minutes, Xiao Tai grew impatient waiting. "Why isn''t your man here yet?"

    Xiao Tai asked but no one answered. He red fiercely at Li Zhen.

    Oh right, she was gagged.

    Xiao Tai signaled with his eyes.

    A man in ck unwrapped the circles of tape again.

    Regaining her freedom, Li Zhen took two deep breaths and quickly answered, "I took the bus so I got the busne. Of course that was fast. He''s driving. You know how congested Tianfu Second Street gets. Didn''t you take Tianfu Second Street yesterday too?"

    As soon as she finished, her mouth was taped up again.

    Li Zhen nced at the only intact piece of furniture in the house, the clock on the wall.

    It was only 6:30. With traffic, it made sense he''d be a littlete.

    Just as Li Zhen was thinking,

    Suddenly there was the sound of keys unlocking the door.

    The door opened.

    Lu Yanming''s tall figure stood in the doorway. His gaze behind gold-rimmed sses was gentle. He exuded an aura of leisurely elegance.

    He nced over the dozen or so men in ck, and Xiao Tai with his head wrapped in bandages. His expression was calm.

    Li Zhen closed her eyes.

    It was over. Lu Yanming hadn''t picked up on it. Now there was no saving the two of them.

    "Finally here. I''ve been waiting a long time for you!" Xiao Tai yelled harshly.

    The yell made the bruised cheekbone where he''d been hit yesterday throb painfully.

    Xiao Tai held his head. Seeing the other was still indifferent, his anger grew deeper. "You don''t seem surprised at all seeing us. Aren''t you afraid?"

    But Lu Yanming was as if he hadn''t heard. His gaze was fixed only on Li Zhen in the corner. "Did they hurt you?"

    Li Zhen shook her head vigorously, whimpering through the gag.

    "I''m talking to you! Don''t be arrogant. There''s more than ten of my brothers here! Even if you were the world martial arts champion, you''d still have to crawl out of here." Xiao Tai said coldly.

    "Crawl out? I''m afraid that won''t happen." Lu Yanming walked up to Li Zhen step by step and helped her up, letting her lean against him.

    Seeing Lu Yanmingpletely unafraid of him, Xiao Tai asked in a deep voice, "What do you mean?"

    "None of you can leave." Lu Yanming''s tone was still gentle as he carefully peeled off theyers of tape from Li Zhen''s mouth.

    When Lu Yanming said this, the dozen or so men all burst outughing.

    "With just you alone?" Xiao Tai couldn''t help guffawing loudly.

    But the next second theirughter was drowned out by a sudden loud rumbling noise.

    Xiao Tai''sughter instantly stopped. "What''s that sound?"

    There was the huge sound of winding in through the window, the force of the wind was fierce, like a tidal wave, blowing the curtains wildly, forcing everyone to retreat back a step.

    Everyone except Lu Yanming looked out the window.

    The sight made their pupils shrink back, mouths open wide in shock.

    Outside the window were several military helicopters, machine guns aimed at the people inside.

    The helicopters'' propellers spun rapidly, steadily hovering in midair.

    One man in ck stared nkly, then clumsily took out his phone and snapped a picture, posting it to Moments.

    [Random Notes: Saw real military helicopters today, happy!]

    He had just posted it for one second when his friends immediatelymented below.

    [What''s with the gun muzzles pointed at you!]

 Chapter 63: Let Me Take You Forward

    <h4>Chapter 63</h4>

    "Oh!"

    The gun was pointing at him!

    The man raised both hands and knelt down with a thud, "I surrender, I surrender!"

    Seeing this man kneel, the others also kneeled down in swaths.

    Someone directly cried, "Brother Xiao, didn''t you say you were justing to smash the house to scare people?"

    They had taken off their rubber aprons and put down their fish-scaling knives, and came just like that without even a stick.

    Who would''ve thought the people dealing with them were military helicopters equipped withrge-caliber machine guns?

    And there were several of them!

    They yed a 3, but the other side directly threw down a bomb!

    They were preparing to y a 5 yuan capped mahjong, but the other side made a billion dor gamble!

    How could they continue ying this hand!

    "Wuwuwu, Brother Xiao, I want to go home."

    "Brother Xiao..."

    A chorus of wailing arose one after another.

    Xiao Tai could no longer hear the voices of the others, he hadpletely frozen in ce.

    A dark stain spread from his crotch down his trouser leg.

    Li Zhen was surprised to see the military helicopters outside the window.

    Lu Yanming hade in empty-handed, yet brimming with confidence. She had thought he was Lu Zidan, could he really be able to take on ten opponents alone?

    But upon seeing these helicopters, she finally understood, he was Lu Jing, following the military industry path.

    Li Zhen looked up at him and sincerely admired, "Limited by culture, I y a single 6!"

    Whenever she looked at him with such clear, worshipful eyes, Lu Yanming felt quite smug inside.

    He ruffled her soft, fluffy hair, "Thanks for my wife''s praise."

    The two words "my wife" caused Li Zhen''s cheeks to flush slightly.

    Lu Yanming separately went to each bedroom and took a few things before leading Li Zhen''s hand out.

    The special forces who had been waiting in the corridor for a long time immediately swarmed into the room.

    Li Zhen curiously looked at the things in Lu Yanming''s hands.

    Their ID cards, household registrations, marriage certificate, and... a little umbre.

    "Mr. Lu, why are you taking these things out?"

    "Moving house." Lu Yanming pressed the elevator button and they walked in.

    "Moving house?"

    This was the first time she had seen someone move house with just one hand''s worth of stuff!

    "We''re not living in this dorm anymore?" Li Zhen thought, it seemed they really couldn''t continue living there short-term, it had been smashed to just a shell, "What about the stuff inside?"

    "Fei Zhao will arrange to clear it out."

    "Oh, alright."

    Li Zhen didn''t have many possessions herself.

    She didn''t like buying bags or jewelry, just had a few sets of clothes and shoes, as long as she had enough to wear day-to-day.

    Buying anew wouldn''t cost much money.

    When the two of them exited the building, they discovered a dense crowd of people standing around therge central courtyard of theplex.

    "Special forces and military helicopters?"

    "Terrorists have entered ourplex?"

    "Must be filming something right? These scenes, big production!"

    "So cool! Mom, I want that ne, buy it for me mom!"

    "Be good, we''re not buying it. Mom will make you some stir-fried meat with bamboo weaveter!"

    Li Zhen suddenly remembered there were still two things she hadn''t taken!

    "Mr. Lu, wait for me, I still need to go upstairs to get some stuff."

    The instant Li Zhen turned around, she was grabbed by the hand again by Lu Yanming, "What stuff?"

    Li Zhen subconsciously nced at the IDs in Lu Yanming''s hand.

    She still had one ID she hadn''t taken.

    The divorce certificate.

    Li Zhen''s silence made Lu Yanming understand.

    He released his hand, "Go on then."

    Li Zhen turned back towards the building. Lu Yanming''s low, rich voice sounded from behind her, "There''s lots of debris inside, be careful not to step on anything and hurt yourself."

    Li Zhen''s footsteps halted.

    She turned back. The wind from the whirling rotors blew Lu Yanming''s neat, clean-cut hair. He stood straight and tall, his posture noble and elegant, the sea of people behind him bing his backdrop.

    He was wise and powerful, seeming to always have stable emotions, always caring for her attentively and tolerantly.

    Li Zhen was suddenly overwhelmed by a strong sense of trust, an urge to confide heart-achingly, "Mr. Lu, one matter took seven years of my youth but was never smoothly concluded. There''s something upstairs, the only proof of those seven years of existence."

    She asked: "Should I go get it or not?"

    Lu Yanming walked closer to her, his low voice deep and unhurried, "Don''t look back, let me lead you forward."

    Li Zhen''s heart thumped heavily. She looked up at him in astonishment.

    She had thought he wouldn''t understand even if she told him, or would perhaps lecture her at length.

    But what he said was precisely what she was thinking.

    That''s right, she had to keep moving forward. There was no need to keep the divorce certificate.

    Lu Yanming held out his hand.

    Li Zhen slowly raised her hand and ced it in his broad, dry palm.

    Lu Yanming gripped it tightly.

    Zhen Zhen, let me lead you forward. If you look back, then I will have no more road left to walk.

    -

    After the two of them exited theplex, Fei Zhao was already waiting at the entrance.

    Li Zhen got in the car. Fei Zhao started the car and asked caringly, "Miss Li, you weren''t too frightened just now right?"

    "It was fine, but I don''t want a repeat of this." Li Zhen was still a bit terrified thinking back.

    Actually, just looking at Xiao Tai''s appearance, it was clear he was just of poor character without much guts. So despite Xiao Tai saying so many threats against her, she hadn''t believed many of them.

    Before long, the car arrived.

    Li Zhen cried out softly when she saw the gilded entrance of theplex before her, "Assistant Fei, you didn''t bring me to the wrong ce right? Ourpany''s dorms will be here?"

    Flower Splendor Noble Gate, this was a famously high-end apartmentplex alongside the Jinjiang River. The floor ns were generally 200 square meter one-bedrooms and 300 to 500 square meter two-bedrooms. There was only one building, standing tall and prominent alongside the Jinjiang.

    "There is a small unit, a 160 square meter small one-bedroom." Fei Zhao replied.

    Yet another small house, but there was no helping it, this was thergest unit MacroOcean had.

    The young master didn''t have any objections, so what more could he say?

    160 square meters?

    A small one-bedroom?

    Fine, Li Zhen was rather curious what theyout of a "small" 160 square meter one-bedroom would look like.

    Li Zhen followed Lu Yanming and Fei Zhao to the 27th floor. Inside was a two-story duplex structure. Just the first floor was already 160 square meters, with arge living room, open kitchen with Chinese and Western styles, and floor-to-ceiling windows on two sides for 270 degree river views.

    The upstairs was half open to the living room below, and half a nearly 70 square meter bedroom connected by a spiral staircase.

    Theyout was simple, but extravagant and spacious.

    "This house is great!" Li Zhen was very satisfied.

    When she got her share dividend, she would buy a nicerge river-view t just like this rather than a vi!

    "Go take a look at the things Fei Zhao has prepared in the bedroom, and let him know if you''re missing anything." Lu Yanming walked into the kitchen and put on an apron. "I''ll call you when food is ready."

    "Young master is going to cook?" Fei Zhao was so shocked his jaw dropped.

    Lu Yanming nced at him. "Didn''t I often cook in the past?"

    Fei Zhao felt like he was hearing things. "Huh (¨¡)?"

    It seemed he hadn''t misheard!

    He was shocked again. "Huh (¨¢)?"

    When had the young master ever cooked!

    But in a second, Fei Zhao understood. "Oh (¨£)."

    It was all for Li Zhen''s sake!

    Having figured it out, Fei Zhao nodded. "Oh (¨¤)! That''s right, the young master often cooks!"

    It''s said that a gentleman stays away from the kitchen, but the young master had put on an apron for love!

    Li Zhen admired this.

    The depths of the Chinesenguage had truly been yed with by Fei Zhao.

 Chapter 64: I donâ€™t know, excuse me.

    <h4>Chapter 64</h4>

    Li Zhen didn''t listen to anything more the other two said. She went upstairs to look at the bedroom.

    She was surprised to find that almost all the items in the bedroom were intact. The toiletries in the bathroom were brands she usually used, and the pajamas and clothes in the walk-in closet were simr to styles she usually wore, just much higher quality fabrics.

    Fei Zhao followed her upstairs, "Miss Li, do you see anything else that''s missing?"

    "Assistant Fei, I''m very curious, about how much is your annual sry?" Li Zhen felt Fei Zhao was scarily omnipotent.

    In such a short time he had arranged everything so properly here.

    Fei Zhao raised his eyebrows, "Why don''t you guess?"

    "If you ask me, a personal assistant as versatile as you, Mr. Lu should be paying you half his sry." Li Zhen deliberately overstated.

    Fei Zhao thought for a moment, "About that much."

    Half of young master''s annual sry at Macro Ocean, was about his monthly sry.

    Li Zhen was shocked, it was actually true!

    Lu Yanming was so wasteful, why hire such an expensive assistant.

    Fei Zhao of course didn''t know, the person in front of him was already thinking about how to persuade Lu Yanming to abandon him.

    The two went back downstairs, Fei Zhao was getting ready to leave, Li Zhen called out to the expensively employed assistant, "Assistant Fei, won''t you stay for dinner?"

    "No need, no need." Fei Zhao hurriedly slipped away.

    Don''t joke, eat the young master''s cooking?

    It would cut years off his life!

    After Fei Zhao left, Li Zhen sat on the sofa and turned on the TV.

    Her gaze involuntarily looked towards the kitchen.

    The kitchen here waspletely open, Li Zhen sitting on the sofa could see every move Lu Yanming made.

    No matter what he did, it was an unhurried and pleasing sight.

    Extremely pleasing to the eyes.

    Li Zhen walked closer to the kitchen, leaning against the fridge she asked, "Mr. Lu, you''re so outstanding, how did you get forced into an arranged marriage? You''re not young anymore either, you really should be sincerely dating a girlfriend."

    "Why do you think the ugly duckling didn''t date the beautiful swan?" Lu Yanming nced at her askance.

    Lu Yanming''s obtuse sentence made Li Zhen nk for a moment, "I don''t know."

    Lu Yanming chuckled lightly, "Because it didn''t want to?"

    Li Zhen understood his implication, raising an eyebrow.

    Lu Yanming''s words had a lot of meaning!

    He had actuallypared himself to an ugly duckling in love rtionships, and the other party to a beautiful swan.

    Li Zhen found it very hard to imagine what kind of person could be a beautiful swan in his eyes.

    And most importantly, from his tone...

    "Mr. Lu, do you have someone you love who you can''t be with?"

    The oven dinged, Lu Yanming opened it, put on oven mitts, and took out the roast chicken inside, saying lightly, "Why don''t you guess?"

    Li Zhen twisted her lips, both Fei Zhao and Lu Yanming had her guessing today.

    Lu Yanming set the roast chicken on the table, the aroma instantly permeating.

    After today''s ordeal with Xiao Tai, Li Zhen was already starving, at this time her mind emptied of other thoughts, reaching out a hand wanting to tear off a chicken leg.

    Her hand had just reached out when "p", Lu Yanming not too lightly pped the back of her hand, "Wait."

    Li Zhen drew back her hand.

    Lu Yanming looked up at her, "Exin what you meant just now, saying I was old?"

    Li Zhen waspletely confused, "Did I say you were old?"

    "Yes, you did." Lu Yanming stood up straight, just quietly gazing at her.

    With an attitude that if she didn''t exin clearly, he wouldn''t let her eat.

    "Maybe I spoke too quickly, misspoke." Li Zhen''s eyes nced at the roast chicken, slowly swallowing her saliva.

    "I''m thirty this year, don''t smoke or drink, healthy body, also don''t stay upte often, should live to seventy or eighty no problem." As Lu Yanming spoke, he turned back to the kitchen, bringing out the remaining dishes to the table.

    He shoved chopsticks into the drooling Li Zhen''s hands, "I''m only four years older than you, I don''t think I''m old at all."

    "Not old, not old, Mr. Lu you seem so young to me!" Li Zhen very tactfully smiled as she took the chopsticks.

    Was Lu Yanming that sensitive about his age?

    She couldn''t even remember what she had casually said, yet he had sincerely taken the time to exin.

    Li Zhen mentally took note: this person is petty about his age, remember to never bring it up again.

    After eating, Li Zhen showered and went to bed.

    She could hear Lu Yanming brushing his teeth in the bathroom, and felt a little nervous inside.

    Back at Sunshine Garden, they had asionally slept in separate rooms. However big this house was, there was still only one bed, meaning the two would have to sleep together every day now.

    It was getting more and more like they were really husband and wife! This momentum was not good.

    She had to hurry up and get pregnant then leave.

    Li Zhen ced the mini umbre on the bedside table, then swept a nce at the bathroom.

    No, that can''t be right!

    Were her eyes tricking her?

    Looking again...

    She sat straight up in the bed, expression changing tremendously, "The bathroom is semi-transparent?"

    Lu Yanming''s hard and streamlined silhouette could be vaguely made out through the fully frosted ss bathroom, she could even clearly see every area he washed and each movement.

    You couldn''t see clearly from inside to outside, yet outside could see clearly inside!

    "Then just now when I was showering..." Li Zhen''s face flushed red, her whole body about to be steamed.

    The bathroom door opened, Lu Yanming stepped out, lower half wrapped in a towel, right hand holding a towel drying his wet hair, "What''s wrong with you? Your face is so red, too hot?"

    It wasn''t too hot! She was too embarrassed!

    "Mr. Lu, you weren''t in the bedroom when I showered earlier right?" Li Zhen carefully sounded him out.

    Lu Yanming picked up the hairdryer, "I was."

    "Snap."

    A line called shame broke.

    "So my entire shower...you were able to..."

    "I saw it." Lu Yanming matter-of-factly drying his clean and trimmed short hair.

    "Mr. Lu how could you not avoid it?" Li Zhen angrily, her charming face even redder.

    "Were you in the bedroom when I showered earlier?"

    "I was..."

    "Then howe you didn''t avoid it?"

    "I..."

    With Lu Yanming''s question, she seemed very unreasonable.

    Li Zhen instantly deted, lying down, huffily pulling theforterpletely over herself.

    Lu Yanming chuckled lightly, kneeling by her bedside on one knee, and the corner of her tightly wrappedforter was pulled open.

    Her eyes peeked out, meeting Lu Yanming''s warm, pale irises.

    Lu Yanming: "My mistake, don''t be angry."

    "Oh." Li Zhen''s heart very faithlessly softened in nearly an instant.

    She actually wasn''t angry at Lu Yanming, just felt awkward.

    But the next second, her eyes abruptly widened.

    Lu Yanming grabbed his towel, simply pulling it off.

    Kneeling by her bedside on one knee, his bodypletely bare, "You look back fully, consider it mypensation."

    Li Zhen: ...I feel you''re taking advantage of me, but I have no evidence!

    Li Zhen awkwardly curled her toes into the bedsheet, eyes darting away in a sh.

    The corners of Lu Yanming''s lips turned up slightly, picking up the mini umbre from the bedside table, and sticking it into Li Zhen''s hands under the covers.

    "Since you''ve already taken it out prepared, then help me put it on."

    Under his gaze, the blush on Li Zhen''s face visibly spread, ears, corbone,rge swathes of alluring red.

    His little Zhen was so cute, made him want to...

 Chapter 65: See how he can suck up.

    <h4>Chapter 65</h4>

    Lu Yanming thought this and acted ordingly.

    The next day, Li Zhen walked to work.

    The apartment was located not far from thepany, just a ten minute walk.

    She couldn''t understand why Lu Yanming, who was perfectly able-bodied, needed Fei Chao to drive him even such a short distance.

    "Achoo!" A cold gust of wind blew by and Li Zhen was surprised she could still catch a cold in summer.

    She felt chilled to the bone, as if today would be an unlucky day.

    In the elevator at thepany, Li Zhen was suddenly bumped into by a man.

    "Excuse me, let me in too."

    Li Zhen was shoved by this impatient man and nearly didn''t make it into the elevator.

    At thest moment, the man held the elevator door open and enthusiastically said, "You''re Li Zhen, right?"

    "And you are?" Li Zhen looked over this stranger.

    "I''m Tian Pingwei, the new marketing specialist." After Tian Pingwei saw Li Zhen enter, he closed the elevator door.

    Realizing he was from the marketing department, Li Zhen stiffened for a moment. "Nice to meet you."

    "I just started here, there''s still so much I don''t understand. I''ll have to rely on your guidance!" Tian Pingwei gave a wide grin and reached out his hand.

    "We can learn from each other." Li Zhen reluctantly shook his hand, not expecting to meet such an extrovert so early in the morning.

    There were colleagues from various departments in the elevator, and they all stared curiously at Tian Pingwei. In this day and age where everyone tried to minimize social interaction, an extrovert like him was rare.

    But Tian Pingwei paid them no mind, and kept chatting with Li Zhen.

    In the office, Zhao Yan saw the delighted Tian Pingwei and called out, "What''s got you in such a good mood?"

    "Uncle, I just met that Li Zhen you mentioned, the one President Yu likes. I got to talk with her!" Tian Pingwei said breezily with a broad smile.

    "You brat, who told you to go talk to her! Stay away from her in the future." Zhao Yan''s expression changed slightly, and he added coldly, "Also, don''t call me uncle in the office!"

    If everyone knew he had such a grown nephew, where would he put his face?

    "Got it." Tian Pingwei muttered unhappily.

    "Oh right, for tonight''s dinner party, go get a model from the advertising department to attend."

    "I''ll get it done, Unc...Manager Zhao!"

    Tian Pingwei went to the advertising department to find Ren Zongxian.

    Ren Zongxian brought him into his office and had him take a seat, before stepping out again to pour him some tea.

    The advertising department had to tiptoe around the marketing department for many matters, so the advertising managers were always deferential to the marketing staff.

    Ren Zongxian had just finished pouring the tea when he was immediately surrounded.

    "Manager, is this for a marketing department dinner?"

    "I haven''t been picked in so long, it should be my turn this time."

    "I''ve never gone before, you can''t y favorites Manager."

    Ren Zongxian was annoyed by the chattering women giving him a headache. "Stop it, the marketing guy is still in my office. Don''t embarrass us."

    The marketing department would asionally borrow people from advertising for important asions, to better showcase their products to clients.

    Most people tried to avoid these dinners. But the marketing department was very generous, giving 18,888 yuan as a "hardship fee" to anyone they brought along.

    If they encountered clients who forced drinking, the attendee would get double the fee for enduring some mistreatment.

    Everyone wanted the chance to go.

    "Alright, alright, back to work everyone." Ren Zongxian waved them away.

    As the crowd dispersed, Jiang Kegeng sidled up to him. "Manager, I want to go this time. Can you help me with that?"

    Ren Zongxian was surprised. "You''re usually not too keen on these things?"

    These were usually very important marketing dinners, and President Yu attended 8 or 9 out of 10 times.

    Jiang Kegeng was currently scheming for a chance to get close to President Yu, "That was before, now is now, Manager."

    "This isn''t my call, nothing I can do." After speaking, Ren Zongxian quickly brought the tea into his office.

    Tian Pingwei stood up to receive it from him. "You''re too kind, Manager Ren."

    Ren Zongxian said, "Little Tian, what time is it scheduled? Let me know who you pick, and I''ll have her leave early to avoid traffic and dys."

    Tian Pingwei was taken aback. He thought his uncle just wanted him to confirm the time and details.

    He had to pick the person himself?

    From what his uncle said, the advertising department got a big red envelope for this, and just now so many people were begging Manager Ren to let them go. So this was a good thing! He should give this opportunity to Li Zhen!

    But he couldn''t make it too obvious.

    Tian Pingwei said, "Then let me take a look at who''s free and not too busy today to join us."

    "Sure, sure." Ren Zongxian promptly led Tian Pingwei out of the manager''s office.

    As soon as Tian Pingwei emerged, everyone immediately sprang to their feet, beaming at him coquettishly or sweetly.

    Jiang Kegeng marched right up to him, but before she got halfway, she heard Tian Pingwei say, "How about that long-haired girl in the corner on her phone?"

    All eyes instantly turned to Li Zhen in the corner.

    Li Zhen, who had been happily cking off since she had no tasks today, suddenly noticed the office go silent.

    When she looked up, everyone was staring at her.

    She quickly put her phone down. Shoot, she got caught cking.

    "Li Zhen, bring the Starry Night collection samples after work and apany the marketing department to a dinner." Ren Zongxian''s voice rang out.

    Li Zhen thought...what just happened?

    That evening.

    Outside the hotel''s private room, Yu Sheng wore an all-ck suit, broad-shouldered and long-legged, exuding a cold aura.

    Zhao Yan deferentially stood behind him.

    A woman with an expensive handbag sashayed over to Yu Sheng. "President Yu, you''re so early."

    "It''s rare that Miss Du helped arrange this meeting with Director Li. Of course I had to arrive early to show my sincerity." Yu Sheng nodded slightly.

    "It was nothing, why so polite President Yu?" Du Baifeng linked her arm with Yu Sheng''s and whispered intimately in his ear, "President Yu, after sharing a drinkst time, I''ve dreamt about marrying you several times."

    Zhao Yan quickly averted his eyes, not daring to look further. She was the daughter of the governor of Jinghai Province, having just invested in building arge mall in Jin Cityst year. It was constructed on an old, run-down site in the most prime location in the southern city center.

    With that location and her background, the mall''s sess was guaranteed. All the brands desperately wanted to secure good spots there.

    Miss Du had a proud temperament and no one could get on her good side. Yet she took a particr liking to President Yu.

    Last time, in order to secure the best storefront on the first floor of the mall for Honghai Corporation, President Yu suffered all kinds of mistreatment from Miss Du, though he did manage to sign the long-term contract at a normal price in the end.

    The mall was opening tomorrow, and Honghai''s jewelry sales were projected to increase over 25% this year.

    "Miss Du, I''m merely an employee. Drinking with you again would really upset my wife." Yu Sheng allowed her to cling to his arm.

    "President Yu, you''re such a spoilsport, always bringing up your wife. This movie Director Li is working on now will be a guaranteed hit. So many people want the product cement advertising, yet I got Director Li to meet with Honghai today. And not for Honghai''s sake."

    Yu Sheng raised his brows and smirked. "Miss Du, I understand. Manager Zhao has a set of ourtest SCC brand jewelry ready in the trunk of his car. He''ll bring it to your carter."

    "Yes Miss Du, I hope it''s to your liking." Zhao Yan tactfully followed up right away.

    Du Baifeng snorted inwardly. Yu Sheng adeptly deflected her words.

    The only man she wanted, why didn''t he want her?

    He was just an executive, yet so arrogant.

    Yu Sheng nced at his watch. "Director Li should arrive in 10 minutes. Where is the person from the advertising department?"

    "Let me check." Zhao Yan was about to call Tian Pingwei when he saw Tian Pingweiing up the stairs carrying a box of red wine.

    He pulled Tian Pingwei into the private room. "Where''s the person you were supposed to meet today? Did you clearly tell them the time and location? Why aren''t they here yet?"

    Zhao Yan set the red wine down on the table and wiped his sweat. "I just contacted Li Zhen. She said she''s on her way."

    Li Zhen?

    Did he hear that right?

    Zhao Yan''s heart skipped a beat.

    Yu Sheng, who was entering with Du Baifeng, halted his footsteps as his eyes instantly chilled. "Who did you say ising?"

    "It''s Li Zhen, President Yu." Seeing Yu Sheng react to her name, Tian Pingwei''s brows rose in satisfaction.

    Look, wasn''t he great at ttering the boss!

    This was getting face time right in front of the top leader!

 Chapter 66: My Name is Tian Pingwei

    <h4>Chapter 66</h4>

    Tian Pingwei seized the opportunity andughed, "President Yu, I''m Tian Pingwei, the new executive who arranged for Li Zhen toe today."

    Zhao Yan was taken aback!

    "Tian Pingwei?" Yu Sheng''s sharp eyebrows lowered and his breath was extremely cold.

    "Yes, yes, yes, I''m... don''t pull me, Manager Zhao..."

    Zhao Yan pulled his good nephew out.

    Zhao Yan nced into the private room and saw Yu Sheng sitting down with Du Baifeng.

    He grabbed Tian Pingwei''s ear, furious enough to explode, "Are you kicked in the head by a donkey! How did you call Li Zhen over!"

    "Isn''t President Yu interested in this little model? I... I thought it would be good to give her this opportunity."

    "What good opportunity! Who told you it was a good thing!"

    "I saw the models in the advertising department scrambling toe."

    "Li Zhen can''t be like them! You only saw that some were eager toe, you didn''t see that half of them didn''t want toe either! This is socializing! You think it''s a children''s field trip!" Zhao Yan couldn''t say anything more, he was about to have a heart attack, "You''re so stupid you''re going to kill me!"

    Tian Pingwei was confused.

    Li Zhen was caught in terrible traffic on her way over.

    Rushing as fast as she could, she was stillte.

    She walked to the door of the private room, knocked on the door, and went in.

    The scene in the private room made her pause slightly.

    She wasn''t surprised to see Yu Sheng, but that woman was there too.

    Li Zhen only hesitated for a second before smiling apologetically, "Sorry, traffic jam on the road, I''mte."

    Director Li looked Li Zhen up and down.

    He narrowed his eyes, thenughed loudly, "I thought I waste, didn''t expect someone to beter than me. Come on, you have to drink three penalty drinks for this."

    Zhao Yan''s heart thumped anxiously as he kept looking at the boss.

    Yu Sheng frowned, silent.

    At the dinner table, refusing a drink was disrespectful. Li Zhen knew she couldn''t avoid thete penalty, so she smiled and took the ss, drinking down three in a row.

    "Good drinking capacity," Director Li said, satisfied.

    Li Zhen put down the wine ss, about to sit in the seat near the door, when she heard Yu Sheng say, "Come over here and sit."

    Li Zhen went over.

    Although she didn''t want to sit next to Yu Sheng, she would rather sit with him than face that man whose gaze made her very ufortable.

    Zhao Yan took this opportunity to introduce, "Director Li, President Du, this is our colleague Li Zhen from the advertising department. She''s wearing the jewelry we want to ce in the movie."

    "SCC''s new collection this time is well done," Du Baifeng echoed.

    "Jewelry doesplement a beautiful woman," Director Li nodded, satisfied, "It''s just too far away, I can''t see it clearly. Could I trouble Miss Li to sit a little closer?"

    Li Zhen''s body stiffened, unmoving.

    Tian Pingwei''s back was drenched in cold sweat. He finally understood why his uncle had scolded him.

    It was over, his job was in jeopardy.

    "Director Li called you, didn''t you hear?" Yu Sheng put down his wine ss and nced at Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen looked at him incredulously.

    "Why are you looking at me? Go to Director Li," Yu Sheng''s voice grew even colder.

    But then, his eyes nced at Zhao Yan from the corner.

    Zhao Yan understood, and quickly got up and walked over to Li Zhen, "Sorry we weren''t considerate, Director Li, let me bring them over for you to look closely."

    Li Zhen breathed a sigh of relief, took them off and handed them to Zhao Yan, giving him a grateful look.

    Director Li looked at the jewelry ced in front of him and shook his head, "Just sitting there alone, it looks quite ordinary. It doesn''t seem to match the tone of my new movie either."

    "Miss Li, go over and put them on for Director Li to have a good look," Du Baifeng directed.

    Director Li''s intentions were obvious, why wasn''t this little employee from Macro Sea moving?

    Remembering Anyang Zhenshi''s repeated reminders about the importance of tonight''s dinner before leaving work, Li Zhen gritted her teeth and went over.

    Just as she was about to pick up the ne and put it on herself, Director Li grabbed it from her hand.

    "Miss Li, it''s inconvenient for you to put it on yourself, let me help you."

    Li Zhen''s brows furrowed as she recoiled, "It''s very convenient for me, no need to trouble you, Director Li."

    "Don''t be polite, I''m always patient with beauties, it''s no trouble." Director Li held Li Zhen''s slender shoulders and pressed her to sit down.

    When he let go, he gave her a hard squeeze.

    Li Zhen''s fingertips dug into her palms as she silently cursed the man in her heart, all the way back to his ancestors of thirty-six generations.

    Zhao Yan''s heart thumped wildly as he kept looking at Yu Sheng.

    Yu Sheng had his head half lowered, casually scrolling through his phone, seemingly unconcerned about the movement over here.

    Director Li looked at the seated woman, satisfied.

    "Miss Li, your back is very slender, your shoulder and neck lines are smooth and straight, a rare beauty''s shoulder." Director Li put the ne on her, his hands on her shoulders.

    Li Zhen got up, imperceptibly avoiding those lecherous hands, "Thank you for yourpliments, Director Li. Have you seen enough? If so, I''ll go back to my seat."

    "How could I see enough so easily? I can''t be careless with the props in my movie," Director Li pulled Li Zhen to sit down again, pouring her a ss of wine, "Miss Li, your looks are exceptional. Isn''t it a waste being a small employee? Have you considered entering the entertainment industry? ..."

    Du Baifeng said with a smile, "Director Li, are you poaching right in front of President Yu?"

    "She''s just an employee, why would President Yu be reluctant to part with her?" Director Li''s implication was more than obvious. His heated gaze roamed over Li Zhen''s chest, "If Miss Li is willing, I can discuss more with you privately tonight."

    He grabbed Li Zhen''s hand.

    Li Zhen couldn''t take it anymore!

    She jerked her hand back, just about to curse him out, when Yu Sheng leisurely said, "Come over here."

    "Go pay the bill." Yu Sheng took a card out of his wallet and put it on the table.

    Li Zhen swallowed her words for the greater good, and took the card out of the private room.

    Director Li''s expression turned icy almost instantly, "What is the meaning of this, President Yu?"

    Yu Sheng didn''t speak, just got up, took off his watch and loosened his tie, cing them on the table.

    Zhao Yan sensed trouble!

    Yu Sheng approached Director Li.

    With a loud "bang", Director Li was kicked flying out of his chair!

    Du Baifeng was shocked and got up, yelling, "Yu Sheng! Are you crazy!"

    Yu Sheng thought he could endure it, the man had only touched her.

    But he was wrong.

    He could not tolerate it.

    He wanted to kill.

 Chapter 67: Pay me for your hard work.

    <h4>Chapter 67</h4>

    "How dare you touch me! You¡¯re dead!" Li Producery on the floor, clutching his chest where he had been kicked, panting heavily.

    Yu Sheng picked up a chopstick and walked over to Li Producer''s side, squatting down.

    The chopstick flipped agilely in his hand.

    His eyes were icy cold, carrying a chilling murderous intent that made one''s lips and teeth go cold.

    Li Producer was so scared that his body shook, his eyes stared in horror at the chopstick, "What else do you want to do, forget about that kick just now, if you dare touch me again, I¡¯ll really kill... ah..."

    A heart-wrenching scream echoed through the private room.

    The chopstick pierced through Li Producer''s palm, and red liquid flowed along the wood floor¡¯s grain.

    Li Producer rolled in pain with a miserable howl.

    "Kill me? Feel free to try." Yu Sheng''s gaze was profound, his hand holding the chopstick didn''t move at all, nailing Li Producer down like spearing a struggling fish.

    "Yu, let go, this is getting out of hand and can''t be smoothed over!" Du Baifeng''s voice trembled.

    But her eyes staring at Yu Sheng shone brightly.

    She liked men like this!

    Young and impulsive, ruthless and decisive, she really didn''t judge the wrong person.

    "I''m not trying to smooth this over." Yu Sheng stood up, took a paper and wiped the blood stains off his cuffs, "An external liaison producer putting on quite an act."

    Li Producer curled up in the corner, already pale from blood loss, "You¡¯re bluffing me? You know Producer Kong, why did you still look for me!"

    "There are some paths I have to walk myself, but I don''t want to walk anymore, I can also take other paths." Yu Sheng nced at Li Producer''s already bloodless face, turned and left the private room.

    Tian Pingwei was stunned on the spot, feeling numb all over, "Uncle, is your business dinners always this exciting?"

    Although Zhao Yan was no less shocked than Tian Pingwei inwardly, he pretended to be calm in front of his nephew, "Just a small scene, don''t be afraid."

    Tian Pingwei nced sideways, "But Uncle, can you let go of my hand first, you''re shaking while holding me."

    Li Zhen was at the front desk paying the bill, and then remembered that Yu Sheng had not told her the password.

    She tried entering her birthday.

    The password was correct.

    Why hasn''t he changed his password yet?

    "Miss, here''s your receipt." The hotel front desk smiled and handed the receipt to Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen took it and turned to see Yu Sheng walking towards her.

    "It''s over, so soon?" Li Zhen was slightly surprised and handed him the card and receipt.

    "Got it settled, so I came out," Yu Sheng took the card and grabbed her hand, carefully wiping it with a napkin.

    Li Zhen was shocked and tried to pull back, but couldn''t, "Let go!"

    "It''s dirty, let me wipe it for you." Yu Sheng didn''t look up, just looked at her hand coldly, then said to the front desk, "Get a room."

    "Yes, Mr. Yu." The front desk already recognized this customer who often brought people for business dinners.

    Yu Sheng took the room card and pulled Li Zhen upstairs.

    Li Zhen was confused, incredulous, "Yu Sheng, are you stuffing me to that old man!"

    "Dirty, taking you upstairs to shower." Yu Sheng nced coldly at her.

    "Just now you didn''t care, and now you dislike your own employee for being dirty, there''s something wrong with you!" Li Zhenughed angrily.

    "I won''t let youe to this kind of asion again in the future."

    "If you don''t let mee, you''ll still let other peoplee. It''s not me, it will also be other colleagues being touched here!"

    "This is how society operates, not something you can change just because you don''t like it. The people whoe from the advertising department are also willing, I didn''t force anyone. And it''s not always like this every time." There was suppressed anger between Yu Sheng''s brows.

    Li Zhen was speechless for a moment, what Yu Sheng said made sense, this society''s rules werepletely rotten.

    But she didn''te willingly today.

    She shook off his hand, "I won''t go, I don''t have obsessivepulsive disorder to the point where I have to shower on the spot after being touched a few times to keep living."

    "Li Zhen," Yu Sheng tightened his grip on her arm, the ferocity between his brows thickened, just thinking that the man had touched her shoulders made him unable to tolerate it, "Go shower!"

    "If anyone''s showering, it should be you!" Li Zhenughed.

    Yu Sheng was full of that woman''s perfume.

    But Li Zhen didn''t really mind anymore, calmly reminding, "Next time the marketing department has anything, don''t ask me. You eminent Buddha, I can''t afford to provoke."

    "I didn''t ask you toe today." Yu Sheng said in a low voice.

    "Whether it was you who arranged it or not isn''t important to me, but since I came, remember to transfer double overtime pay to me from the marketing department."

    The 320,000 from Du Baifengst time, she had transferred back to Yu Sheng''s card that very night when she got home.

    Now she only had a little over 100,000 left, so 30,000 was a huge sum to her, she wouldn''t give it up for nothing.

    Li Zhen struggled free from Yu Sheng''s hold and walked away.

    She had felt ufortable being blown by the cold wind early this morning, and sensed it wasn''t a good day, her fortune didn''t align.

    Now looking at it, indeed!

    Li Zhen left the hotel and went straight to Qiao Yi''s home.

    Qiao Yi opened the door, a pleasant surprise on her face, "Howe you''re here? Xiya and the others said you were called away by the marketing department!"

    "Didn''t stay long, it ended quickly." Li Zhen went to sitfortably on the sofa, "How have you arranged things these two days, do you need my help with anything?"

    "It''s all arranged, found a rtive from my hometown, she''lle to Jincheng tomorrow."

    "That''s good then. Xiao Tai hasn''t bothered you again in the past two days right?" Li Zhen asked tentatively.

    "No, no news from him these past two days, and his mother hasn''te to find me either."

    Li Zhen was relieved.

    It meant Xiao Tai had no more ideas to make trouble, after all he might still be in detention.

    "Aunt Li Zhen, have some fruit." Tuan Tuan''s voice was soft and sticky sweet, sweet to the heart.

    She brought over a te of fruit and ced it in front of Li Zhen, her big eyes blinking rapidly, "Aunt Li Zhen, the fruit is so sweet, try some."

    "Alright, thank you darling Tuan Tuan." Li Zhen''s heart melted looking at Tuan Tuan obediently going to her room to sleep, envying her to death, "Tuan Tuan is really adorable, how long did you prepare before conceiving her?"

    "No preparation, calcted my ovtion and got pregnant the first try." Qiao Yi casually said.

    Ovtion?

    In a sh, the content of middle school biology ss suddenly came back to Li Zhen''s mind.

    She had been tortured by Lu Yanming day and night recently, drained of energy every night.

    How could she only just remember she should calcte her ovtion period!

 Chapter 68: This sofa is called A Dream.

    <h4>Chapter 68</h4>

    The peak ovtion period is the 14 days before a woman''s period. The chances of getting pregnant are highest in the two to three days surrounding ovtion - those days make up the fertile window.

    Li Zhen counted back the days and realized her fertile window had passed over a week ago. All their recent efforts had been in vain!

    When Li Zhen returned to Huayang Mengmen, she saw Lu Yanming putting on his shoes in the foyer, clearly getting ready to head out.

    She put down her bag. "Mr. Lu, you''re going out?"

    Hearing her voice, Lu Yanming looked up.

    Li Zhen''s face was flushed, and she had the faint blush of alcohol. One look made it obvious she''d been drinking.

    Lu Yanming''s gaze swept over her. "Yeah, I''m going out to buy you a sofa."

    "Buy me a sofa?" Li Zhen wondered if she''d misheard.

    "You said yesterday the sofa wasn''t soft enough, didn''t you?"

    "When did I ever..." Li Zhen trailed off.

    She really had said that.

    Last night after they''d finished for the first time, thirsty, she''d gone downstairs in the dark to get some water. Lu Yanming had followed her down.

    Moonlight streamed in through the floor-to-ceiling windows, bathing Lu Yanming''s rugged, muscr chest in a thin veil of light. Li Zhen couldn''t resist reaching out to touch him, but he''d pressed her down into the sofa instead and...

    Lost in the moment, she''d murmured, "Too hard."

    Nipping her ear, he''d asked, "What''s too hard?"

    Jolting back to full awareness and realizing her slip of the tongue, she''d scrambled for a cover, ming the sofa.

    She hadn''t expected he''d take it to heart.

    He was actually going to buy a new sofa?

    Now there was no way she could tell him she hadn''t meant the sofast night.

    And now that she knew about her fertile window, she didn''t need to fruitlessly try making babies with him every night either. There was only one bed here - a nice,fy sofa would be perfect for her to sleep separately andfortably alone!

    "I''ll go with you, Mr. Lu," Li Zhen volunteered.

    Lu Yanming brought her downstairs with him and drove to a home furnishing mall.

    At a brand store, a saleswoman hurried up to them eagerly. "Good evening, sir, madam. What kind of sofa are you looking for today?"

    Couples who came furniture shopping in the evenings after work were usually busy and just squeezing in time when they could, so they often made purchases. Salespeople were always extremely enthusiastic toward these types of customers.

    Hearing "madam," the saleswoman had clearly mistaken their rtionship. But was it really a mistake? Li Zhen couldn''t exactly refute it, but she couldn''t readily agree either.

    Lu Yanming''s expression was casual as he stated their needs concisely: "My wife prefers softness. She doesn''t like anything too hard."

    As if to confirm, he leaned in to Li Zhen''s ear. "Isn''t that right, wife?"

    Li Zhen: ......

    This soft and hard business - she strongly suspected he knew exactly what she''d meantst night.

    "We have just the thing, sir. This sofa is called ''Dreamlike'' and is designed for softfort. Would you two like to try it out?" The saleswoman smiled as she introduced it.

    "My wife can try it." Lu Yanming gestured for Li Zhen to go ahead.

    Reluctantly, Li Zhen sat down.

    The moment she did, her eyes lit up. "It''s really soft."

    "We''ll take this one then." Lu Yanming turned to the saleswoman. "Can you deliver tonight?"

    The saleswoman hadn''t expected them to buy so quickly. "Sir, don''t you want to ask the price first?"

    "How much is it?" Li Zhen had a bad premonition from her tone.

    "Madam, this model is 1.36 million yuan." The saleswoman smiled as she answered.

    Li Zhen immediately stood up from the sofa. "On second thought, this sofa won''t work either. It''s a little too soft with not enough support. Bad for the spine over time."

    Lu Yanming watched Li Zhen''s performance quietly.

    She was always especially animated at times like these.

    The saleswoman had been in this business seven or eight years. She understood at once the madam thought it was too expensive.

    "You''re absolutely right, madam. This sofacks proper support. Let me show you another option - it has great price-performance ratio and is also very soft, just 700,000 yuan." The saleswoman was still brimming with enthusiasm.

    Li Zhen tried the other sofa. It wasn''t asfortable as the first, but better than the one at Huayang Mengmen now.

    "Mr. Lu, should we get this one?"

    Mr. Lu?

    The saleswoman was confused. Weren''t they a married couple?

    "Sure." Lu Yanming nodded, then asked the saleswoman again, "Can you deliver tonight?"

    The saleswoman hesitated. "I''ll need to check with the delivery team. It''s nearly 10 PM now. I''m not sure if they''re still working."

    "Please check for us. Delivery tonight would be best if possible. My wife is rather delicate. She needs it every night but can''t tolerate anything too firm." Lu Yanming exined unhurriedly.

    Li Zhen: ......

    You''d better be talking about the sofa!

    And it''s way too natural how you keep calling me your wife!

    "I''ll look into it right away, sir." The saleswoman hurried off.

    Once delivery was confirmed, Lu Yanming paid, and they returned to Huayang Mengmen.

    Li Zhen went upstairs to shower.

    In the shower she heard movement downstairs - the new sofa must have arrived.

    Freshly showered, Li Zhen went downstairs and gaped at the luxurious 1.36 million yuan sofa that had been swapped in. "Mr. Lu, why did you get this expensive one?"

    "Because you liked it more." Lu Yanming''s exnation was straightforward.

    "But..." It was just too pricey.

    It was already bought, so it felt ungrateful toin. Li Zhen forced herself to swallow the words back down.

    The vice president of arge corporation had a high sry. If he wanted to spend like this, she couldn''t be bothered to stop him.

    Li Zhen flopped down luxuriously. "It''s sofy!"

    The feeling of lying on money wasn''t bad at all!

    A whole 1.36 million!

    From now on this would be her bed.

    Li Zhen wriggled on the sofa. Her slip rode up, exposing smooth bare legs.

    Heat red in Lu Yanming''s eyes. He sat down and grasped her fair skin in his palm. "Wearing so little, aren''t you cold?"

    Warmth instantly suffused her body from the thigh his hand encircled. Li Zhen shivered all over. "I''m not cold, Mr. Lu."

    "It''s not too firm now. Want to give it a try?" Lu Yanming removed his sses with one hand, cing them on the tea table.

    With the other, he lifted her leg higher.

    He moved over her.

    "Mr. Lu, what are you talking about?" Li Zhen temporarily forgot how to blink and breathe. His intense masculine aura enveloped and pressed down on her.

    "Of course the sofa being not too firm. What did you think I meant?" Lu Yanming chuckled lightly.

    Li Zhen pushed at him, but she was far too weak to budge him at all. "Wait, Mr. Lu, today I-"

    Her protest of "don''t want to" was entirely swallowed up and consumed.

    Compared to their first two times, his kissing technique had markedly improved. His hands roamed everywhere.

    Li Zhen''s body went limp.

    Lu Yanming''s mind shed to the hotel front desk earlier tonight.

    He''d been too far to hear their conversation, but he''d clearly seen Yu Sheng wipe her hands and take a keycard from the front desk. Yu Sheng had pulled her along toward the elevators, but she''d broken free and left.

    Lu Yanming''s eyes darkened for an instant.

    But only an instant.

    He released her lips, caressing her slightly swollen lip with his fingertip. His voice was low and husky but infinitely gentle. "Are you satisfied with me?"

    "Huh?" Li Zhen''s mind was hazy from Lu Yanming''s kisses, still not fully back to her senses.

    "Li Zhen, do I satisfy you? Are you still satisfied with how I do it?" Lu Yanming asked bluntly, gazing intently at her like a model student anxiously seeking an answer from his teacher.

    Li Zhen: ......

    So direct?

    How could she respond to that!

 Chapter 69: Brush You a Rocket

    <h4>Chapter 69</h4>

    "Li Zhen, answer me," Lu Yanming said slowly, his voice lingering. His eyes were still thick with passion from their earlier intimacy. Yet he insisted on stopping to ask a childish question.

    Li Zhen''s face flushed as she made a soft grunt.

    "What did you say? I didn''t hear clearly," Lu Yanming said lightly. He lowered his head to kiss her slender, white neck, stubbornly asking again, "Say it one more time, will you? Little Lu didn''t hear clearly."

    The term "Little Lu" made Li Zhen''s heart flutter, as if he was just a humble, pleasure-seeking host club host waiting for praise from his patron.

    Lu Yanming''s breathing was hot against her skin as he ced fervent kisses down her neck.

    Li Zhen''s heart had already melted, and so had her body.

    What was wrong with wanting affirmation from his bedmate? He was just a proud man, stubbornly seeking validation.

    "Does Little Lu want the truth...or a lie?" Li Zhen''s voice was fragmented as she decided to simply tell him what he wanted to hear.

    Lu Yanming said, "You can lie to me, let me hear it."

    Li Zhen squirmed impatiently, breathing rapidly.

    Lu Yanming persisted with his questioning. "What''s your lie?"

    "The lie is...you''re some, I can''t stand you at all... Every time we..."

    Li Zhen couldn''t continue as her words were torn apart by a wild tempest.

    Afterwards, Lu Yanming carried Li Zhen to the bedroom and gentlyid her on the bed after washing her up.

    Outside, rain was drizzling down.

    Li Zhen nestled into the soft bedding, rubbing her head against the pillow.

    Sleeping on the couch could wait until tomorrow - today she was too worn out from his attentions.

    "Li Zhen," Lu Yanming called her name softly from behind as he held her, sounding especially hoarse and maic in the rainy night.

    "Hm?" Li Zhen respondedzily.

    "The day the photography studio lights fell - I was there too. Did you see me?"

    "I saw you," Li Zhen opened her eyes.

    She knew Lu Yanming was quite satisfied with her as a convenient bedmate, and still had a strong sense of possession over her.

    He must want to ask why she had chosen to save Yu Sheng instead that day.

    But that wasn''t what he asked at all.

    "I watched you for a long time that day. You didn''t seem happy, not like usual..." Lu Yanming said lightly.

    Li Zhen was surprised and turned to face him. "Usual? Mr. Lu, have you seen me before?"

    As soon as she rolled over, he had her wrapped tightly in his embrace.

    Lu Yanming kissed the tip of her nose. "Of course I''ve seen you before. You shone as brightly as a star when you were in university - everyone from A University knew you."

    "You went to A University too?" The coincidence delighted Li Zhen. So he had known about her for a long time already, even though they had only recently be intimately acquainted.

    Her eyes lit up, instantly melting his heart.

    Thick bitterness and sweetness intertwined, overwhelming him. In the past, he could only gaze at her from afar, watching as she looked at Yu Sheng with these eyes, full of joy.

    Yet today, he could finally have her so close that her eyes met his.

    Lu Yanming kissed her eyes.

    He kissed her forehead.

    He kissed her lips.

    Li Zhen''s breathing grew ragged from his kisses. "Mr. Lu..."

    "I''m four years your senior, but I often went back to campus and saw you many times," Lu Yanming said after he had kissed his fill. "You used to say you wanted to be a big star, to win Best Actress. How did you end up as a hand model instead?"

    Li Zhen was slightly stunned, her eyes suddenly stinging.

    Superstar. Best Actress.

    Such distant words.

    So distant that she could no longer remember what expression the 19 year old girl had when she spoke those words.

    That was an age of ignorance and arrogance, when she thought she could just stand on tiptoes and pluck the stars from the heavens.

    "Youthful folly, just casual boasting," Li Zhen turned her back to Lu Yanming again, not daring to let him see her wet eyes.

    "Do you still want that now?" Lu Yanming held her waist and gently embraced her.

    "Now? I''m already 26. Mr. Lu, people might not even want me to y an elderly empress dowager," Li Zhen forced a light tone.

    Lu Yanming chuckled softly. "Just 26. What a wonderful age."

    "Our Li Zhen can punch her way to Best Actress and kick her way to superstardom, standing in the brightest spotlight."

    "With all the world gazing up at you in admiration."

    Li Zhen felt her blood boil for a moment.

    Perhaps it was Lu Yanming suddenly calling her the intimate "Li Zhen".

    Or him evoking the brilliant yet fleeting dreams of her 19 year old self.

    Li Zhen didn''t speak again.

    She gazed far into the distance, looking through the floor-to-ceiling windows at the shimmering waters of Jinjiang River in the rainy night, and up at the glittering stars in the sky.

    So beautiful.

    Yet not meant for her.

    Missed chances were missed.

    In the conference room, Ren Zongshun stood at the front, leading the meeting and assigning tasks.

    "The IF Mall opening event today is extremely important. Everyone must give it your all."

    Zhang Xiya whispered to Li Zhen, "I heard the mall''s mysterious owner is the daughter of the governor of Jinghai Province. Why''s she leaving the coast to make waves here in our southwestern Jin City?"

    "Avoiding the limelight. She probably can''t spread her wings as much in Jinghai, so she wants to establish her power in other regions first." Li Zhen whispered back.

    Zhang Xiya searched online for photos and clicked open one. "Oh, she looks quite elegant."

    Li Zhen casually nced over.

    So this was the woman fromst night''s dinner, Du Baifeng.

    After the meeting ended, the models all changed and boarded thepany bus heading to IF Mall.

    Zhang Xiya pulled at her dress inint. "The dresses for these events just get shorter and shorter."

    "You can tell how important an event is by how short they make the dresses," Li Zhen said helplessly, eyeing her own hem. "At least I''m wearing a cheongsam instead of something obscenely short."

    The marketing department really went all out.

    For a major event like a mall opening, the goal was maximum impact - they wanted today''s entire crowd and all media coverage focused on SCC Jewelry.

    So almost all of SCC''s models were being sent out today for a major showing.

    Many other major brands had already sent staff to prepare the venue before SCC''s bus even arrived.

    Li Zhen followed the group inside.

    SCC''s booth had an excellent location, right by the entrance on the right.

    At 10am, after the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the models began taking turns demonstrating at the booth.

    Li Zhen had just stepped up to the booth in the 9cm death-heels thepany required, wearing one of the new Starry Sky pieces, when someone bumped her with their elbow.

    Teetering in the high heels, Li Zhen stumbled two steps before looking up to see Jiang Kening had taken the spot where she was just standing.

    "Shouldn''t a lowly model like you know where you belong?" Jiang Kening sneered arrogantly.

    "Oh pardon me, for blocking the peacock''s runway," Li Zhen retorted icily before moving to the other side.

    She hadn''t noticed she was standing in the coveted central spot. If she had realized earlier, she wouldn''t have stood there.

    Located in the prosperous south side of the city, IF Mall had attracted much attention even before opening. From the start of today''s event, crowds were already swarming.

    The constant clicking of cameras could be heard around the models at each brand''s booth.

    Li Zhen was wearing a cyan cheongsam, the silk clinging tightly to her curves.

    A man livestreaming with his phone stopped in front of her.

    "Family, we''vee to the SCC Jewelry booth."

    "This girl looks great!"

    "Hahaha, Boss Yi asks if the girl can walk around a bit? Let me ask her."

    "Miss, Boss Yi asks if you can walk around a few steps. He''ll send you a rocket gift, I''ll pass it on to you. What do you think, miss?"

 Chapter 70: With a Face and a Mouth, I Really Love

    <h4>Chapter 70</h4>

    Li Zhen had a polite smile on her face as she gently said, "Sorry, this isn''t a runway show today."

    The male host''s face suddenly turned cold, and he sneered, "Little miss, if you''re going to model, don''t pretend to be so high and mighty. Big Bro here just increased the tip amount and sent you ten rockets."

    The slit on Li Zhen''s cheongsam was too high, and it would easily ride up to reveal her thighs when she walked. If it just happened naturally while she was walking, that would be one thing. But with someone trying to peek up her dress on a livestream, of course she would refuse.

    This event was very important, so she couldn''t get into an argument. Li Zhen could only curse him out in her heart, while maintaining a smile on her face as she said, "I''m sorry sir, I''m working right now so I can''t amodate your request."

    The male host made his living by frequently attending events like these and taking candid photos of beautiful women to gain follows and traffic for his stream. His audience was basically just a bunch of greasy middle-aged men.

    As soon as Li Zhen refused, the livestream chat exploded with curses.

    ¡¾Hypocrite!¡¿

    ¡¾A slut like you has no right acting so high and mighty!¡¿

    ¡¾Wearing a high-slit dress is for us men to look at.¡¿

    ¡¾Bro host, stop being a wimp and flip up her skirt.¡¿

    The stream chat stirred up a frenzy of verbal abuse, instantly causing the view count to skyrocket.

    Seeing this, the male host was delighted.

    Just now it was only his few thousand loyal fans, but now it instantly surged to twenty thousand viewers.

    As expected, controversy brings traffic!

    He had to keep attracting the attention of these new viewers.

    Jiang Kening, who was standing to the side, gleefully watched Li Zhen''s embarrassment.

    Every time they had offline events, some lowlife guys would hit on the models. This time Li Zhen encountered one, and Jiang couldn''t wait to watch her drink a gallon of bitterness.

    The male host loudly said, "Little miss, don''t be shy. We''re all family in this stream. No need to be embarrassed, just walk a couple steps. That''s what models are for, to show off your figure for us."

    After all, he was a streamer. Usually when he tried flirting with someone, after some coy refusals they would agree to his requests.

    So the male host was very confident and didn''t give up.

    Listening to this made Li Zhen want to punch him. "Sir, I think you''re mistaken. We''re here to showcase the products. Also, when trying to flirt with a woman, you shouldn''t just look at her appearance."

    "Then what else should I look at?"

    "You should also look at your own appearance."

    As soon as Li Zhen said this, the stream chat burst intoughter.

    ¡¾Hahahaha!¡¿

    ¡¾Laughing so hard I''m about to fall out of my chair! This missy has such a sharp tongue.¡¿

    ¡¾Taking notes, taking notes! Next time someone criticizes how I dress, I''ll p back just like this!¡¿

    ¡¾Please miss, start giving lessons! My mouth is so dumb, I want to learn!¡¿

    ¡¾And this missy is so pretty on top of being so sharp-tongued, I love it!¡¿

    The male host took a look and saw that his viewer count was still soaring upwards.

    He was delighted.

    Looks like this woman was quite good for bringing him traffic.

    "Since you''re too shy, let me help you out." The male host was determined to make a scene, reaching out to grab Li Zhen''s arm, trying to forcibly pull Li Zhen along.

    But before the male host could touch her, his wrist was suddenly seized in an iron grip, and a huge force pressed down on his wrist bones with an excruciating, bone-cracking pain.

    The male host''s face instantly turned white. "Ouch, ouch, ouch, that hurts!"

    "You don''t need this hand." Yu Sheng''s expression was cold, his eyes icy. His strong fingers mped down on the male host''s wrist in an unbreakable vise.

    The livestream chat exploded.

    ¡¾My ears got pregnant from that voice, how can someone sound so good!¡¿

    ¡¾Boss speaks, I''m in love!¡¿

    ¡¾Ahhhhhhh! Why can I only see Boss''s wrist, the bulging veins are so sexy!¡¿

    With a jerk of his arm, Yu Sheng flung the male host away.

    The male host staggered back two steps before stabilizing himself, still holding up his phone towards Yu Sheng. "Why are you assaulting people? I''m livestreaming right now, everyone on the inte can see your despicable face..."

    Li Zhen gently tapped the phone.

    The screen on the male host''s phone disyed: Stream ended.

    The male host looked at Li Zhen in shock. "You actually ended my stream?"

    Weren''t they supposed to have a verbal spat andpete? She actually ended his stream!

    "In high-level business battles, the simplest methods are often the most effective," Li Zhen said with a faint smile, her tone polite. "Now, please head out the door, take a right, and go to the museum. Otherwise I''ll have to call security."

    The male host opened and closed his mouth, wanting to say something more, but seeing the icy look in the other man''s eyes, his whole body shuddered in fright. Not daring to say anything more, he turned and left, cursing all the way.

    Themotion here was quite loud. Ren Zongshun had been in the middle of discussing ns for a promotional shoot with the marketing team.

    As soon as he heard Yu Sheng was here, he rushed right over. "Boss Yu, why are you here?"

    The models who had been resting in the mall''s employee break room also heard the noise and came over.

    Zhang Xiya and Meng Yuanjie walked to Li Zhen''s side.

    Zhang Xiya anxiously asked, "Xiaomengzhen, what happened here just now? I heard arguing."

    "Ran into a creep, but it''s fine now, he already left," Li Zhen said, massaging her sore legs before going back to her seat.

    As she walked, the slit in her cheongsam gave tantalizing glimpses of her fair thighs, entuated by the cyan dress material.

    Yu Sheng withdrew his gaze, his tone cold. "Who arranged the models'' outfits? What is this supposed to be!"

    "Boss Yu, today there are many media outlets here, you understand..." Ren Zongshun hesitated to exin too bluntly.

    But they all understood his implication.

    Outfits that were too conservative wouldn''t garner much media interest in taking photos.

    HH was already quite conservative, other brands had outfits with far less fabric.

    "Manager Ren, how much thought did our HH designers put in, how many revisions did they go through, to design this new collection? And our marketing department, while not exactly moving heaven and earth, still pushed our product promotion to the limitpared topetitors." With every word, Yu Sheng''s gaze towards Ren Zongshun grew colder by a degree.

    Yu Sheng nced over the models. "The sess or failure of the SCC new collection doesn''t need to rely on these kinds of attention-grabbing methods."

    Yu Sheng''s aura was naturally powerful.

    Ren Zongshun was sweating bullets from his words, nodding his head repeatedly. "Boss Yu is right, our thinking was too shallow."

    Yu Sheng''s peripheral visionnded on the slit in Li Zhen''s skirt, before withdrawing his gaze again. "Have them take turns going back to thepany and change into proper outfits beforeing back."

 Chapter 71: Got it, Sister

    <h4>Chapter 71</h4>

    Zhang Xiya went back to thepany with Li Zhen to change clothes. On the way back to the mall, Zhang Xiya was in a very happy mood.

    "President Yu is such a man. You see we dressed normally and still stood out, didn''t we! We didn''t have to rely on clothes to catch everyone''s attention at all."

    Li Zhen nodded.

    Yu Sheng had many shorings, but he was very capable at work.

    Just as he said, the marketing department of Macro Ocean had made a series of efforts that allowed SCC Jewelry to be way ahead of otherpetitors in marketing.

    Back at the mall, Li Zhen went back to the original position she stood at.

    She had just gotten there when a middle-aged man wearing a mask walked over to a spot a few steps away from her. He looked her up and down.

    "Li Zhen, what body type do you have that you encounter perverted men again!" Jiang Kening, who was standing to the side, rolled her eyes at Li Zhen, "You have to restrain yourself and not cause trouble again, making this offline event stink."

    "Prejudice, saying that it''s the victim''s fault. I rmend you go to a psychiatric hospital as soon as possible for your victim ming mentality." Li Zhen smiled faintly.

    Hearing this, Jiang Kening was so angry that her eyes were no longer eyes and her nose was no longer a nose.

    Maintaining a smiling standing posture, Li Zhen''s gaze swept over the middle-aged man''s whole body.

    The man''s gaze was gentle but powerful, not the vulgar kind like the male anchor''s that morning, but more like he was carefully analyzing her.

    Although there was no malice, Li Zhen still felt ufortable.

    After the middle-aged man left, the models suddenly cried out in unison.

    "President Lu is here! It''s another day of being visually attacked by President Lu''s handsomeness!"

    "He looks so good today! His tie is so formal, it hits me right in the feels!"

    "Here hees, President Lu ising closer!"

    The models respectfully greeted him from afar.

    "President Lu."

    "Good afternoon, President Lu."

    "Hello, President Lu."

    Lu Yanming nodded to each one.

    He walked to the SCC counter, and all the models'' spines straightened even more. Their peripheral vision was desperately ncing at the new vice president.

    Li Zhen was no exception.

    She was also secretly a little happy.

    Her tool man husband was always the most dazzling one wherever there were crowds.

    These genes, she picked right!

    Just when Li Zhen was secretly pleased with herself, she saw that gaze that attracted thousands of attention walk over to her side.

    "Hello, President Lu." Li Zhen nodded politely.

    Lu Yanming didn''t speak or move. He just looked at her.

    Li Zhen looked around and saw the surprised gazes shuttling back and forth between the two of them.

    Why wasn''t he moving from her side!

    Hurry up and go!

    Li Zhen was a little panicked and spoke louder, "Hello, President Lu."

    Lu Yanming said lightly, "I heard someone made trouble here this morning?"

    Before Li Zhen could speak, Jiang Kening hurriedly came over to answer, "Yes, President Lu. This morning was frightening. That male anchor..."

    "I''m asking Li Zhen. Who are you?" Lu Yanming''s tone was mild and light, without any aggressiveness at all, as if he was just asking earnestly.

    But Jiang Kening''s face turned pale.

    The others couldn''t see it, but she could see a cold chill in the new vice president''s eyes.

    Just like that day at the police station.

    "I...I..." Jiang Kening was so scared that she couldn''t speak and took two steps back.

    While speaking with Jiang Kening, Li Zhen hurriedly shrank to the side, "Xiya, let''s switch ces."

    Zhang Xiya nced at her, "Got it, girl."

    Of course Li Zhen was afraid with President Lu singling her out in front of so many people. Macro Ocean was most afraid of office gossip between men and women.

    Lu Yanming took his indifferent gaze off of Jiang Kening and looked back to see...

    Zhang Xiya: "Hi hi, President Lu!" Look how lively she became!

    "Mm." Lu Yanming''s expression froze a little as he nodded.

    Li Zhen had already shrunk to the corner.

    Lu Yanming scanned everyone, "I''ve prepared milk tea and coffee for everyone. My assistant Fei has already put it in the break room. Go take turns resting and drinking there."

    The models immediately exploded excitedly, happily shouting, "Thank you, President Lu!"

    There was nothing happier in the summer than the boss treating everyone to coffee and milk tea.

    Lu Yanming looked at Li Zhen, then turned and left.

    Li Zhen breathed a sigh of relief.

    -

    Li Zhen returned to the break room, and the table was indeed full of milk tea and coffee as promised.

    She took an iced Americano and sat down on the sofa, taking off her high heels and massaging her slightly sore calves while drinking.

    Zhang Xiyained painfully, "Today has been such a long day. The amount of people in this mall is just too crazy, forcing us to stand all day."

    In the past, other malls'' offline events also had peak hours in the morning. By the afternoon, everyone could leave.

    But the flow of peopleing and going in IF Mall had never stopped today.

    "Of course, the reason thepany paid so much attention to moving into IF was for this reason." Meng Yuanjie chimed in.

    Thepany had been talking about this for a long time without further action. Not to mention it was President Yu who finally signed it in the end.

    Meng Yuanjie sipped his milk tea happily, loungingfortably on the sofa with one leg crossed over the other. "But today''s offline event was also pretty interesting, from the male anchor throwing a tantrum to President Lu treating us to coffee and milk tea. We never got this kind of treatment before. Isn''t that right, Li Zhen?"

    Meng Yuanjie raised his eyebrows at Li Zhen.

    He and Zhang Xiya knew that they had Li Zhen''s light to thank for these drinks.

    "Oh,e on. You guys think it was interesting, but I didn''t. I was tired to death today." Li Zhen threw away her cup after finishing her drink and got up to take over for her colleague.

    Today''s lunch and dinner were pre-ordered work meals from thepany.

    It wasn''t until 10pm at night that Ren Zongshun and the others let them off work in batches.

    Li Zhen was arranged to be in thest group. By the time she returned to the break room, only Xiaocai from the administration department was left tidying up the samples.

    "Li Zhen, just put the samples in the boxes and sign, I really need to go to the bathroom."

    After exining, Xiaocai hurried out of the break room.

    "Okay." Li Zhen took off the bracelets, brooches, and carefully ced them in the velvet boxes before closing them and putting them in therge box.

    She signed and left with her bag.

    -

    Yu Sheng had just finished a meeting with the representatives from many brands and IF Mall.

    Going downstairs, he saw Li Zhen at the mall entrance.

    Li Zhen was sitting on the nter at the mall entrance, her high heels ced to the side.

    She was barefoot, toes touching the ground.

    One hand poked at the high heels while she mumbled to herself.

    "Am I short? Ren Zongshun! Giving me 9 cm high heels! May you be only 1.2 m tall in your next life and have to wear 90 cm high heels to look taller!"

 Chapter 72: The Chairman is a Foreigner

    <h4>Chapter 72</h4>

    Li Zhen massaged her ankle, looking left and right at the ridesharing car she had ordered.

    When she looked, she met Yu Sheng''s cold gaze.

    She quickly retracted her gaze, pretending not to have seen him.

    Yu Sheng walked towards her. "What''s wrong with your foot?"

    "It''s nothing." Li Zhen didn''t even nce at him, lowering her head to concentrate on massaging her ankle and calf.

    Strangely, before the divorce, if Yu Sheng saw her by the roadside, he might have just sent a message for her to go home early.

    He himself would have rushed to thepany to work overtime.

    But now, he was actually taking time out of his busy schedule to ask what was wrong with her.

    It seemed Yu Sheng''s mind was not in a good ce.

    "The high heels don''t fit well. Why didn''t you bring it up with your department earlier? When you went back to thepany to change clothes today, you should have changed them too." Yu Sheng''s tone was usatory.

    Li Zhenughed angrily. Yu Sheng spoke as if she had stupidly refused to change her shoes on purpose.

    "Mr. Yu, do you think everyone has the same privileges as you, to change whatever you don''t like or don''t findfortable? Do you think Ren Zongshun would listen to me, a lowly hand model?"

    Yu Sheng was silenced by Li Zhen''s words. His eyebrows furrowed as he said in a deep voice, "I''ll take you home."

    "Thepany just held arge-scale offline event today, shouldn''t you still be busy? Don''t worry about me, I don''t need it." Li Zhen rejected him thoroughly.

    Li Zhen just wanted Yu Sheng to hurry up and leave.

    There might still be people from thepany at the mall.

    If someone came out and saw her tangled up with Yu Sheng, it would be hard to exin.

    Li Zhen''s attitude angered Yu Sheng.

    He was about to lose his temper but forced himself to stay calm.

    Their previous arguments had all ended in fights. Today he had an important matter to discuss with Li Zhen, and could not get into an argument with her.

    He had originally nned to call her about it, but since they had met by chance, it was better to tell her in person.

    He reined in his temper. "Clear your schedule on Saturday night ande back with me to Yu Residence."

    Yu Sheng''s words were light, but they exploded like thunder in Li Zhen''s ears. "Go back to the Yu''s? We didn''t even go back when we were married. You want me to go back after the divorce? What kind of custom is this with the Yu family?"

    Whenever Yu Sheng heard the word "divorce", his temples would throb. "Don''t worry about it, juste home with me."

    Li Zhen: "Yu Sheng, we''re already div..."

    Yu Sheng couldn''t stand hearing that word and coldly cut her off. "Eithere back to Yu Residence with me on Saturday, or I''ll tell Li Yinnan about us on Saturday."

    Last time, Li Zhen had said she wanted to hide their divorce from the Li family.

    Li Zhen was still angry. He could only use this as leverage to make her go back to the Yu''s with him.

    The words of refusal in Li Zhen''s throat were instantly swallowed back down. Dejectedly, she said, "Fine."

    Nevermind, just endure for another two months until she was safely pregnant...

    Who was Yu Sheng?

    She didn''t know him.

    Yu Sheng reminded her, "This time it''s extremely important. First, don''t mention the divorce when you go back. Second..."

    "Watch your temper." Yu Sheng emphasized.

    Seeing Li Zhen nod reluctantly, he wanted to exhort her further.

    But considering their recent fights, he swallowed the rest of his words to avoid angering her and making her even more dismissive of this matter.

    That Saturday was his mother''s 50th birthday. His mother was usually low-key, but would be holding a grand banquet that day.

    His uncle, who hadn''t been back in years, would also be returning that day.

    His uncle had promised that he would help convince his mother regarding Li Zhen.

    If they could persuade his mother...

    Yu Sheng''s gaze softened unprecedentedly.

    "Mr. Yu." Tian Pingwei called from the underground parking garage.

    Yu Sheng nced at the roadside, then turned back to Li Zhen. "Go back early and rest well these two days. Saturday is important."

    After finishing, he walked towards the car at the roadside.

    Sitting in the passenger seat, Zhao Yan whacked Tian Pingwei on the head. "What''s the rush! Didn''t you see Mr. Yu was talking to Li Zhen? What are you shouting for!"

    Zhao Yan had used full force in that blow, exasperated.

    "Uncle, you didn''t say so earlier. I''m nearsighted, I couldn''t see clearly that was Li Zhen." Tian Pingwei rubbed his head aggrievedly.

    "Are you stupid? Aside from Li Zhen, who else would Mr. Yu talk to among the female colleagues?" Zhao Yan was ready to die of anger.

    Before his words had finished, the backseat door was already pulled open by Yu Sheng. "Back to thepany."

    "Yes, Mr. Yu." Tian Pingwei thought to himself, I''m done for, going to work overtime again.

    Lately his uncle had been bringing him along to train him, so he was often with Yu Sheng.

    As a result, he had only just arrived but was working overtime every day.

    The problem was overtime deducted from performance...

    Oh right, he was still an entry-level employee without performance pay.

    He felt even more like crying.

    By the flower bed, as soon as Li Zhen saw the rideshare arrive, she immediately put on the high heels and got in the car.

    Returning to Huayang Famous Residence, as soon as she got out of the car, her foot twisted. She had wanted to grab the car door for support, but her hand was firmly caught by someone.

    Li Zhen looked up in surprise. "Mr. Lu, why are you still at the estate entrance sote?"

    "I wanted to ask why you''reing back sote?"

    "I..."

    Before Li Zhen could get the words out, her whole person was suddenly swept up into his arms.

    Then with a light "thump", Lu Yanming lifted his knee to close the car door.

    Lu Yanming turned and walked into the estate, still carrying her in his arms.

    Li Zhen iled in his arms. "Mr. Lu, put me down. People are watching."

    "It''s not like I haven''t carried you like this before." Lu Yanming lowered his head, his gaze sweeping over her slightly swollen ankle.

    All the way back to her home, Lu Yanming ced Li Zhen on the sofa and casually threw the high heels in the trash.

    "Mr. Lu, those are thepany''s shoes!" Li Zhen was so shocked she stood up to try to retrieve them, but perhaps from being carried up by Lu Yanming just now, her ankles had be delicate.

    Stepping on the floor sent pain straight to her heart, and she gasped, forced to sit back down.

    Lu Yanming brought over the first-aid kit and ced it on the coffee table. "Starting tomorrow, Honghai doesn''t need 9cm high heels."

    Li Zhen couldn''t helpughing. "Mr. Lu, those lines belong in a TV drama, quite charming."

    "Then I''ll take that as apliment." Lu Yanming opened the first-aid kit and took out medicinal wine.

    Li Zhen had originally thought his earlier sentence was just Lu Yanming joking around.

    But on further thought, it was possible he could actually implement it as a new rule when he went to work tomorrow.

    "Mr. Lu, Wang Peng follows you everyday. Last time when you said overtime would deduct performance pay, Wang Peng immediately agreed. Mr. Lu, do you know there are rumors in thepany that you might be the Chairman''s son?" Li Zhen had heard these rumors before.

    After all, Wang Peng''s attitude towards Lu Yanming was overly enthusiastic.

    She hadn''t cared much in the past whether these things were true or false.

    Even if Lu Yanming was the Chairman''s son, he had never put on airs or acted entitled.

    All she wanted from him was his genes, not to actually spend her life with him.

    Whether his background was good or bad made no difference to her.

    Lu Yanmingughed. "Who spread such rumors? Don''t they know the Chairman is a foreigner? Do I look mixed?"

 Chapter 73: In His Hands at Last

    <h4>Chapter 73</h4>

    "Lu Yanming, you do not look mixed race at all. You are like a sculpture crafted by an artist," Li Zhen took her time to examine Lu Yanming''s facial features.

    Lu Yanming knelt down on one knee and ced Li Zhen''s ankle on his thigh.

    He looked up at her, exposing his sturdy Adam''s apple. "So pleased with me? Is this ttery real or fake?"

    "President Lu, you''re smart. You tell me, is it real or fake?" Li Zhen reached out and outlined his brows, nose, and jaw.

    She was satisfied.

    The genes she stumbled upon were too perfect!

    "Then I guess it''s real," Lu Yanming''s eyes glimmered withughter. "Bear with me."

    Li Zhen was about to ask what he meant by ''bear with me'' when a sharp pain radiated from her ankle.

    "President Lu! It hurts!"

    "That''s why I said to bear with me," Lu Yanming''s hands kept working while his voice softened considerately, "I''ve got to knead it open."

    Li Zhen bared her teeth in pain, knowing he was right. She whimpered but didn''t yell anymore.

    While kneading, Lu Yanming asked, "What do you think of President Yu?"

    The atmosphere froze instantly.

    "Haha, why are you suddenly asking about President Yu?" Li Zhen''s back stiffened slightly.

    "I heard he was the one who resolved the incident for you today. President Yu is quite warm towards alumni," Lu Yanming''s tone was nonchnt, as if just making small talk.

    "Yes, President Yu...is decent." Li Zhen was rather perfunctory.

    Decent, my ass.

    Arrogant, bad temper.

    Lu Yanming didn''t ask about Yu Sheng again. He put away the medicine kit and stood in front of her, his tall frame casting a shadow over her.

    He loosened his tie and threw it onto the armrest. "It''s half past ten. Isn''t it time I paid my conjugal debt?"

    "Cough cough... no, President Lu, where did you learn that term?"

    Li Zhen thought to herself that his train of thought was jumping too much.

    He went from asking about Yu Sheng to paying conjugal debt?

    "I heard it today at the lunch table next to me at thepany. ''Conjugal debt'' fits the situation very aptly," Lu Yanming exined earnestly, his light eyes glinting withughter. "My wife is young and healthy, demanding too. I''ve decided to take initiative and pay more..."

    Take more initiative?

    He''s already very proactive! Aside from worrying she can''t handle it, he''s eager every night!

    Li Zhen didn''t dare imagine what ''more initiative'' entailed.

    Recalling how she had said he was unhealthy in the elevator...

    She reallycked experience andpletely misjudged.

    "President Lu, you said before that it''s natural for beginners to be a little greedy. I was immoderate the past few nights, but it''s different now..." Li Zhen pulled over the nket from the sofa and bundled up tightly.

    Blocking any possibility of arousing his lust again.

    "You''re tired of me already? Use and throw?" Lu Yanming asked lightly.

    This hit too hard.

    Panicked, Li Zhen hurriedly said, "No, no, President Lu, I just think we should be more moderate. You work hard every day, toiling every night, won''t it be too taxing on your body?"

    "I can handle it." Lu Yanming ced both hands on the sofa''s sides, enclosing Li Zhen in his shadow.

    Li Zhen shrank back, ufortably tugging her lips into a faint smile. "I... I can''t handle it. President Lu, I need more rest. I suggest you rest more too. Let''s take a month off to recuperate and conserve energy."

    Lu Yanming was still for a moment.

    A month?

    She had eagerly wanted it night after night before, why suggest a month all of a sudden?

    Lu Yanming gazed at her intently. His maic voice was slow and measured. "Just a few days ago, who was eyeing me saying she was all better down there and urging me to get in bed sooner? Who took off my clothes..."

    Li Zhen''s face flushed crimson in embarrassment. "President Lu, watch your words!"

    "You can do it but not speak of it?" Lu Yanming suddenly straightened, his distinguished light eyes narrowing slightly. "Li Zhen, are you just using me for practice?"

    What a huge usation to make!

    She wouldn''t take this pot[1]!

    "President Lu, I''m not that kind of person." Li Zhen quickly rified.

    "Then why wait a monthter?" Lu Yanming asked.

    Li Zhen mumbled softly, "You''ll have to ask a human gicist for that."

    The ovtion period was only a few days spaced apart by roughly a month.

    "What did you say?" Lu Yanming didn''t catch it clearly.

    Suddenly, Li Zhen''s phone rang.

    She had been racking her brain for a reason to end Lu Yanming''s probing. She hurriedly picked up, "Hello, Manager?"

    "Li Zhen,e back to IF Mall." Ren Zongshun''s voice was tired.

    "Now? Manager, it''s almost eleven." Li Zhen regretted picking up the call.

    "The samples are missing. Everyone''s rushing back, hurry." Ren Zongshun hung up after speaking.

    Li Zhen frowned slightly at the beeping dial tone.

    How could the samples be missing?

    In her three years at thepany, the advertising department had never lost anything before.

    Having heard the voice on the phone, Lu Yanming said, "I''ll go with you."

    "President Lu, I''ll go myself. If you show up, people will be distracted from the lost items." Li Zhen got up to grab her things and headed out.

    Lu Yanming went to the floor-to-ceiling windows and watched Li Zhen get into a cab.

    She had said a month?

    Why a monthter?

    She was hiding something from him.

    Thinking about what was said on the phone, he reined in his thoughts and called Fei Zhao, "How''s the interrogation going?"

    "Young Master, he still hasn''t talked."

    "Take him from the police station. You interrogate him. I want results today."

    "Understood, Young Master." Fei Zhao excitedly flexed his wrists. Ever since returning to the country, he had been bored out of his mind every day.

    He was finally given something to do in secret about Li Zhen getting injured at the outdoor shootst time.

    Yet the guy he caught was handed to the police by the Young Master?

    And this bastard still wouldn''t talk.

    Now things were finally in his hands!

    When Li Zhen got back to the mall, half of the people had returned.

    Everyone was gathered in the break room.

    Zhang Xiya stood in a corner, stifling a yawn. Seeing Li Zhen arrive, she waved at her.

    Li Zhen walked over and softly asked, "What''s going on? How could the samples be missing?"

    "Who knows? I can''t believe it either. I was halfway through my shower when they called me back!"

    The body wash hadn''t even been rinsed offpletely!

    After another ten-odd minutes, everyone finally arrived.

    Ren Zongshun stood up from the sofa, his expression solemn. "Our samples actually went missing during this offline event! Considering this is the first time, I haven''t reported it to thepany yet."

    "Whoever took them,e forward and I''ll let this go. If thepany investigates, it won''t just be a loss of face for the department. You won''t be able to continue working at thepany either."

    "The breach penalty is huge, as you all know."

    "I''m giving you ten minutes to think it over clearly. The thief, message me yourself!"

    After speaking, Ren Zongshun sat back down on the sofa and sighed heavily.

    At the weekly meeting on Tuesday, the CEO had still praised their department for being the busiest. Now this happened, things were actually stolen!

    Everyone started whispering among themselves, looking around for anyone sending a message.

    Manager Ren hadn''t given any specifics about the situation from start to finish, only urging the thief to turn themselves in. Li Zhen was curious and asked Zhang Xiya, "Why is the manager so certain it''s an inside job? Couldn''t it have been mall staff or visiting guests too?"

    Before Zhang Xiya could reply, Xiao Cai from the admin department cried out, "It must be an inside job! The break room cameras were broken but the entrance cameras show only our people going in and out today."

 Chapter 74: I have to tell you everything before.

    <h4>Chapter 74</h4>

    "What dropped?" Li Zhen gave Xiao Cai a tissue.

    "A Starlight bracelet dropped. The box is still there. I only found out when I was cleaning up at the end," Xiao Cai sobbed with tears streaming down her face.

    Jiang Kening, who was standing on the side, suddenly spoke up, "A Starlight bracelet? I remember only seven or eight people wore it today. Who did it belong to?"

    "I don''t know. Everyone''s boxes were put together." Xiao Cai answered tearfully.

    "I think the people who wore them are the most suspicious," Jiang Kening said loudly.

    Everyone nodded in agreement.

    Taking it when no one was paying attention or not putting it in the box at all.

    When they heard what Jiang Kening said, everyone nced around at those who had worn the Starlight bracelets today.

    "Who knows who took it? Why not just admit it voluntarily and stop wasting everyone''s time?"

    "Right, we all have to go to work tomorrow!"

    "Who was it? Juste clean!"

    Everyone chimed in.

    Everyone was already tired today, and now they had to rush back after work, which really irritated them.

    Li Zhen had also worn a Starlight bracelet today.

    She didn''t expect that someone would dare to steal something so valuable, but here they were.

    After ten minutes, Ren Zongshun got up with a face as dark as smeared charcoal.

    "Since no one is admitting it, we''ll have to call the police."

    "Wait, manager," Jiang Kening suddenly spoke up. "Manager, there are not that many people in our department. We can figure it out if we go through it one by one. I''ll bet it was taken by someone who was alone at some point."

    Alone?

    At that word, Xiao Cai suddenly remembered, "The only one who was alone today...was Li Zhen!"

    Everyone looked at Li Zhen.

    And she had worn the Starlight bracelet over the past few days.

    "We all walked together today, only Li Zhen was thest to leave. And I had gone to the bathroom then..." Xiao Cai went on, crying as she spoke.

    Zhang Xiya immediately refuted when she heard the insinuations, "You can''t say things like that, Li Zhen wouldn''t take it."

    "Zhang Xiya, why are you so nervous? Xiao Cai didn''t say it was Li Zhen, she was just exining the situation," Jiang Kening scoffed.

    Ren Zongshun''s face was cold. "Li Zhen, tell us what exactly you did when you were alone in the break room today?"

    Zhang Xiya was about to explode again at Ren Zongshun''s interrogative tone, "Manager, you..."

    Li Zhen stopped Zhang Xiya and spoke calmly, "I was thest one today, but I left after I finished packing up. I didn''t do anything else."

    "Just saying so is useless. Searching you is the only way to know if you took it or not," Jiang Kening said deeply, then asked the people around, "Right?"

    The people around nodded in agreement.

    "Right, searching is the simplest way."

    "Come on, we all need to go back to sleep."

    "You were the only one alone. Who else could it be but you?"

    Li Zhenughed angrily.

    These people who were egging Ren Zongshun to search her, they were all eager to see her embarrassed.

    "You can suspect me, but you can''t search me. If you want to investigate me then call the police." Li Zhen yawned as she spoke.

    She was tired too.

    But Jiang Kening persisted, "Li Zhen, waiting for the police to get here, who knows how long that''ll take. Manager, so many people are waiting, just search her yourself."

    Ren Zongshun had a headache, "Now everyone has already gone back once. Even if the thief did take it, they had plenty of time to hide it well. What''s the point of searching?"

    "Then it really would be hard to investigate..." Jiang Kening said sinisterly, smiling as she sized up Li Zhen. "Li Zhen, if this can''t be found, then you''re the only suspect."

    Li Zhen''s heart thumped.

    It was very likely the jewelry could not be found now. The thief must have put it away after going home, and would not bring it back here.

    This matter had a ny percent chance of not being solved.

    Was she going to take the me like this?

    Jiang Kening leisurely said, "Li Zhen, you really calcted this well, knowing the cameras were broken and deliberately being thest to leave. I suggest you sell off the bracelet, so you don''t get found out if you wear it someday."

    One by one, the usations pinned the crime onto Li Zhen''s head.

    "Li Zhen, was it you or not?" Ren Zongshun''s brows furrowed tightly, his patience nearly exhausted.

    The people in the break room began to chatter incessantly.

    "I didn''t expect she was this kind of person."

    "She''s usually so stingy, doesn''t even buy brand name bags. Miserly people are prone to stealing."

    "Now that we know it''s her, let''s go back. We''ll see what thepany does."

    Zhang Xiya clenched her fists angrily, "What rubbish are you all saying! It wasn''t Li Zhen!"

    "Zhang Xiya, you''re still defending her? Li Zhen is a thief, there''s no denying that now. If thepany doesn''t fire her tomorrow, it won''t sit well with everyone." Jiang Kening spoke mockingly.

    Some echoed in agreement.

    "Right, fire Li Zhen!"

    "Kick her out!"

    "We don''t want a thief in our department."

    "Wait a minute..." Li Zhen suddenly spoke up.

    Hearing her voice, everyone stopped shouting and looked at Li Zhen to see what she would say.

    Under everyone''s gaze, Li Zhen turned and poured herself a ss of water, then sat on the sofa sipping it slowly, "Let me have some water first."

    Everyone: ......

    Ren Zongshun: ......

    Jiang Kening: ......

    Zhang Xiya: ......

    Zhang Xiya was anxious to death inside. Is this the time to be drinking water!?

    "Li Zhen, even you run out of words?" Jiang Kening rolled her eyes.

    "I''m thinking..." Li Zhen drank her water unhurriedly, "How did this crime get pinned on me step by step?"

    Li Zhen looked up and smiled at Jiang Kening, "It wouldn''t be you who did it and deliberately framed me, right?"

    Panic shed across Jiang Kening''s eyes briefly before she calmed down again, "What nonsense, how could it be me?"

    "But it was you." A low, maic voice suddenly rang out.

    Everyone looked to the door in shock.

    It was the new deputy CEO!?

    Why was he here sote?

    Wang Peng and the legal department director came in right after.

    Fei Zhao walked inst, followed by two burly men in ck pushing a middle-aged man inside with them.

    The previously spacious break room suddenly felt extremely cramped.

    Ren Zongshun thought to himself, it''s over, why did President Wange again! He would get chewed out again at next week''s meeting!

    Lu Yanming stood gracefully at the front without saying anything else.

    Fei Zhao motioned with his hand and the two men in ck threw the middle-aged man into the center of the break room. The smell of blood instantly filled the air.

    When the middle-aged man looked up, the models let out frightened screams almost simultaneously!

    "Ah! A ghost!"

    The man was covered in blood. His eyes were so swollen they were nearly sealed shut. Wherever his clothes didn''t cover, there were terrifying scars. Where they did cover, dark bloodstains seeped through.

    The man cried, "Kening, they''re too frightening! I can''t take it anymore...I had to tell everything that happened before..."

    Seeing who the man was, Jiang Kening''s pupils constricted violently. She staggered unsteadily a couple steps on shaky feet.

    Everyone looked at each other in bewilderment.

    Their gazes turned curiously towards Jiang Kening.

    What had she done?

    In a panic, Jiang Kening quickly sent a message to Jiang Keyan: ¡¾Sis, I''m in trouble,e save me quickly!¡¿

 Chapter 75: The Comfort of Midnight

    <h4>Chapter 75</h4>

    After sending the message, Jiang Kening trembled as she slowly lifted her head, ring angrily at the man, ¡°You... don''t talk nonsense! I don''t know you!¡±

    Fei Zhao sneered coldly, ¡°Don''t know me? I have the chat records between you two and your previous photos. Which ones do you want to see? Should I show them to you now?¡±

    Jiang Kening turned pale, they came prepared!

    Sitting in the corner, Li Zhen stood up.

    Her instinct told her that what the middle-aged man said was most likely rted to her.

    Fei Zhao viciously kicked the man, ¡°Keep talking! Cat got your tongue?¡±

    The man''s battered body could no longer withstand Fei Zhao''s force. He lunged forward and spat out a mouthful of blood, ¡°I''ll say, I''ll say...¡±

    The scene was bloody.

    Everyone''s scalp tingled as they watched.

    ¡°That woman...¡± the middle-aged man pointed at Li Zhen in the corner, his voice hoarse and unclear, st time when she was taking photos outside, it was Jiang Kening who took me to the scene beforehand to sabotage the tabletop and floor. And the studio light that fell some time ago, it was also me who went in beforehand and cut halfway through the wire.¡±

    ¡°Also...¡± Fei Zhao casually took out a bracelet from his pants pocket, shook it in front of Jiang Kening, ¡°This is the bracelet that was just found at your home. Do you have anything to say about all these incidents?¡±

    ¡°The star bracelet! This is the one that went missing!¡± Xiao Cai excitedly ran over and took it in his hand.

    Everyone sucked in a breath, turned to look at Jiang Kening, feeling extremelyplicated, wavering between "she was actually capable of doing this" and "luckily her target was Li Zhen".

    ¡°I knew it! I said she looked inauspicious. Turns out those things were all her doing!¡± Zhang Xiya said in astonishment, ¡°Li Zhen, I''m sorry for suspecting you just now...¡±

    ¡°Well, now that everything is clear, I should be having smooth sailing from now on!¡± Li Zhen instantly felt relieved inside.

    Her recent streak of bad luck, the troublemaker was caught, so things should go smoothly now!

    The general counsel looked expressionless, ¡°Jiang Kening, you have vitedpany rules. You are hereby dismissed by thepany, and will need to pay liquidated damages of approximately 2,183,087 yuan to thepany within three days as per your contract.¡±

    Right after the general counsel finished speaking, several policemen walked in. ¡°Who is Jiang Kening?¡±

    Everyone was taken aback, and unanimously pointed to Jiang Kening, who waspletely dumbfounded.

    With a "click", she was handcuffed.

    ¡°You are suspected of deliberately injuringpany employees, theft ofpany property, and damage topany property. Macro Sea Group has filed awsuit against you. Please cooperate with us ande back to the police station for investigation.¡±

    The cold handcuffs brought Jiang Kening back to her senses. ¡°No, no, I won''t go to the police station!¡±

    She had only used some small tricks to pursue her beloved man, why did it escte to this extent.

    ¡°Sis, I have to wait for my sister!¡± Jiang Kening wailed as she was taken away.

    The middle-aged man was also taken away with her.

    With the matter settled, Wang Peng red at Ren Zongshun, huffed and left with the general counsel, Lu Yanming and the others.

    Ren Zongshun nearly cried. So all this was Jiang Kening''s doing, causing him to be reprimanded by President Wang several times.

    Ren Zongshun looked embarrassed, ¡°Li Zhen, I¡¯m sorry for suspecting you just now...¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, Manager Ren. Now that everything is clear, we¡¯ll head back first.¡± Li Zhen gave Zhang Xiya a look and the two of them left the lounge.

    Everyone quietly exited the mall, feeling very embarrassed when looking at Li Zhen. Just now they had unanimously used Li Zhen, only to be pped in the face instantly.

    But the moment they stepped out of the mall, the originally quiet crowd became noisy again.

    Because Lu Yanming was at the roadside.

    The jet ck Maybach shed its luxurious headlights. Lu Yanming stood tall and straight.

    In the summer night breeze, he looked fresh and refined, graceful in the wind.

    His mellow light eyes looked towards everyone, as if searching for someone.

    With one sweep of his gaze, it was like a fox''s swishing tail, making everyone''s heart quiver along.

    ¡°What a hunk and car, this picture is perfect.¡±

    ¡°Tsk tsk, Lu could make a living with his looks, yet he seeded with his abilities!¡±

    ¡°I wish I could exchange 10 pounds of my weight for Lu to pamper me tenderly for one night!¡±

    ¡°Why hasn''t Lu left yet? Car trouble?¡±

    Amidst everyone''s chattering, Lu Yanming¡¯s low voice carried over in the night breeze.

    ¡°Li Zhen.¡±

    The air instantly froze.

    Everyone looked at Li Zhen in shock, why would Lu call her!

    Li Zhen sighed, and kept walking without stopping.

    Seeing Lu Yanming by the roadside, her instincts were on high alert. And he actually called out to her tantly in front of everyone.

    Knowing what Li Zhen was thinking, Zhang Xiya said helplessly, ¡°Li Zhen, you might as well get on Lu''s car brazenly, that would seem more... normal.¡±

    Waiting is one thing, avoiding is another. Only adds to the ambiguity.

    ¡°Li Zhen.¡± Lu Yanming was not in a hurry, his voice still low and attractive.

    Murmurs of surprise continued intermittently.

    ¡°Lu is waiting for Li Zhen?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s their rtionship?¡±

    ¡°I hope it¡¯s not what I¡¯m imagining, or I¡¯ll be green with envy.¡±

    Li Zhen sighed again and turned back towards the Maybach, resigning herself to getting on the car.

    Everyone''s eyes popped wide open.

    Lu Yanming nodded politely at everyone with graceful manners, ¡°Everyone go home early to rest, you have all worked hard today.¡±

    ¡°Yes, Lu.¡±

    ¡°Mr. Lu, drive slowly.¡±

    ¡°Goodbye, Mr. Lu.¡±

    Everyone respectfully waved Lu Yanming goodbye, watching as he got into the driver''s seat and drove off with Li Zhen.

    Not wanting people to specte, Zhang Xiya hurried back and eximed loudly, ¡°Ourpany is so humane, knowing the employee was wronged and the boss even took time to providefort.¡±

    Someone weakly asked, ¡°Comfort at midnight? How exciting is that?¡±

    Another chimed in, ¡°I also want Lu''s midnightfort.¡±

    Zhang Xiya: ¡°Ahem... just sending her back, don''t think indecent thoughts, how vulgar!¡±

    Fei Zhao went with them to the police station. So the car Lu Yanming drove was Fei Zhao¡¯s.

    In the car, Li Zhen''s slender brows knitted slightly,ining, ¡°Mr. Lu, careless talk breeds trouble.¡±

    God knows what those people would gossip about!

    ¡°Do you know how hard it is to get a taxi after midnight?¡± Lu Yanming nced at her.

    Come to think of it, it really would be difficult to get a taxi sote at night.

    Luckily Lu Yanming didn''t say much just now, the others probably thought the boss was just sending her home, so it was still alright.

    Lu Yanming¡¯s long fingers lightly tapped the steering wheel. Hezily said, ¡°Right, I¡¯m taking you out tomorrow afternoon.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the asion, Mr. Lu?¡± Li Zhen asked.

    ¡°You¡¯ll know when we get there.¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡±

    Back home, Li Zhen quickly washed up downstairs before lying down on the sofa.

    This sofa was sofortable!

    In less than ten minutes, Li Zhen fell asleep.

    Upstairs in the master bedroom, Lu Yanming finished showering and came out of the bathroom. The bedroom was empty.

    Why hasn''t shee up yet?

    He went downstairs, the living room was dark with only specks of moonlight. In the dim moonlight, Li Zhen was lying rxed on the sofa, covered with a thin nket.

    Kneeling by the sofa on one knee, Lu Yanming traced her crescent eyebrows, perky nose, and alluring lips, mimicking Li Zhen''s actions earlier today.

    His Zhen Zhen said he was good-looking today.

    No, he was not good-looking.

    His Zhen Zhen was the best looking in the world.

    Sensing the unbearable tingling, Li Zhen mumbled and tossed about.

    ¡°Zhen Zhen,e upstairs to sleep.¡± Lu Yanming whispered softly, his eyes behind the gold-rimmed sses showing emotions rarely seen in the day - turbulent like the sea, deep and intimidating, yet one was helplessly drawn to sink within.

    He scooped up Li Zhen''s legs and waist, gently picking her up horizontally, and steadily went upstairs step by step.

    As if the one in his arms was precious treasure that could not withstand the slightest worldly turbulence.

 Chapter 76: Where you belong

    <h4>Chapter 76</h4>

    The next morning, early in the morning.

    Meng Yuanjie got up early to make a cup of coffee, and pricked up his ears to listen to Zhang Xiya talk about what happened yesterday.

    Qiao Yi, who had just returned to work after taking a few days off, was also listening attentively.

    "You didn''t see it, we were all scared to death when that man appeared!" Zhang Xiya said dramatically.

    "What happened next, what happened next!" Meng Yuanjie urged.

    Zhang Xiya: "Then that man confessed everything! Jiang Kening''s face turned pale. When she was taken away, she kept shouting ''Jiang Keyan''..."

    "What a pity!" Meng Yuanjie mmed the coffee heavily on the table, "I should not have skipped work yesterday!"

    He deliberately didn''t go yesterday because he thought it was toote. Ren Zongshun happened to not notice either. As a result, he missed such a good show!

    Meng Yuanjie regretted it deeply.

    Qiao Yi also sighed, "Fortunately it was found out. How difficult it must have been for Li Zhen when they ganged up on her and wanted to fire her."

    "Don''t worry, our little Zhen''er is tough," Zhang Xiya said proudly.

    "Also..." Zhang Xiya looked around with a grin and whispered, "Did you see the Meng Nan Shen Qun group? Yesterday, Boss Lu was waiting for her at the entrance of the IF Mall in front of everyone, so sweet!"

    "I saw it, the whole group was full of crazy emojis." Meng Yuanjie was half asleepst night at midnight, but was woken up by the barrage of emoji messages in the group.

    Everyone in the group spected about the rtionship between Lu Yanming and Li Zhen.

    In just one night, at least a dozen versions of their story hade out!

    Even a new female employee in the HR department wrote a fanfiction about them in the middle of the night...

    Sigh...

    Quite romantic...

    But today it was much quieter, just like two days ago when everyone spread the rumor that Boss Lu was still chasing Qiao Yi. There was some gossip but no substantial melon, so things died down.

    -

    When Li Zhen arrived at thepany, Meng Yuanjie and Qiao Yi surrounded her and asked her all kinds of questions.

    Especially Meng Yuanjie, who wished Li Zhen could repeat yesterday''s events eight hundred times.

    Finally at noon, after lunch, Li Zhen fled like a gust of wind into the elevator to escape from Meng Yuanjie and the others, and went to the parking garage to find Lu Yanming.

    Lu Yanming was already waiting for her by the car.

    Lu Yanming had one hand in his suit pants pocket, and the other hand holding his phone, looking down at the screen. Unlike his usual nobility, this pose seemed more rxed and casual.

    As Li Zhen approached, she curiously peeked at his phone screen, "What are you looking at, Boss Lu?"

    "Nothing." Lu Yanming put away his phone and opened the car door for her, "Let''s go."

    Li Zhen nced at his phone again. Why did she feel like he was acting dodgy? Was there something on his phone he didn''t want seen?

    The ce they were going was not far.

    Li Zhen looked up, the five characters "Jincheng Grand Theater" made her slightly stunned.

    "Boss Lu, if you want to take me to a show, it wouldn''t be in the middle of the day, would it? The time is too tight."

    "I''ll take you to watch next time, not today." Lu Yanming chuckled lightly and strode into the theater.

    Li Zhen followed him in, puzzled.

    Inside the theater, a man in a shell-shaped hat was directing the people on stage.

    "No, your expression is too exaggerated. Pay attention to the inner struggle of the character!"

    "Lines, lines! I''ve said it hundreds of times! Not a single word can be wrong!"

    "Director Meng." Lu Yanming patted the middle-aged man on the shoulder.

    The man turned back, his frown rxed a little, "Yanming, you''re here."

    Li Zhen was surprised.

    This was...Meng Changsheng? The national first-ss director, now the master of the drama world. What was Lu Yanming doing here looking for him in the middle of the day?

    "Deputy Director You, watch them redo it again." Meng Changsheng gave simple instructions and led Lu Yanming and Li Zhen to the seats in the auditorium.

    Meng Changsheng looked Li Zhen up and down repeatedly.

    This familiar gaze instantly reminded Li Zhen that this was the man who had watched her for two minutes yesterday at the IF Mall. At that time Meng Changsheng was wearing a mask and she didn''t recognize him for a moment.

    "Director Meng." Li Zhen respectfully greeted this senior.

    Meng Changsheng: "You have good looks, well-defined features, very natural. Great potential. A good seedling."

    Li Zhen listened in confusion and turned to look at Lu Yanming.

    Lu Yanming saw the puzzlement in her eyes and exined, "The lead actress in Director Meng''stest y got sick and they couldn''t find a suitable recement at thest minute, so I rmended you."

    Director Meng was also an alumnus of A University, and a good friend of Lu Yanming''s college mentor.

    The lead actress in histest y "The White Snake", was painstakingly chosen by him after auditioning many candidates.

    When she got sick, Meng Changsheng felt there was no one left who could y the White Snake.

    Originally when Lu Yanming rmended Li Zhen, he agreed to take a look with a trying mindset, but unexpectedly, she caught his eye.

    Meng Changsheng spoke directly, "Yanming said you still have a day job, soe after work. But time is tight, you''ll have to pull several all-nighters."

    Li Zhen almost couldn''t believe her ears, "Me? You want me to y the leading role in your y?"

    Meng Changsheng''s ys were very popr and sought after.

    Even many big stars wanted to participate in his casting calls, just to add a golden touch to their resumes.

    And now, Meng Changsheng wanted her to be the lead?

    Impossible, she couldn''t do it.

    She wasn''t capable anymore.

    Before she could refuse again, Meng Changsheng had already dismissed them, "Alright, I have to get back to work. Remember toe after you''re off."

    "Okay, Director Meng." Lu Yanming agreed.

    As soon as Meng Changsheng left, Li Zhen immediately frowned, "Boss Lu, I can''t do it. I''m no good at ys."

    As Li Zhen spoke, she paced back and forth, getting more and more agitated, and began to speak incoherently.

    "Besides, I haven''t done any acting for three years. How could I possibly be in Director Meng''s y! Impossible, impossible."

    "I''m just a hand model..."

    "How could a hand model possibly y Director Meng''s leading role!"

    "Zhen''er," Lu Yanming grasped her slender shoulders, stopping her pacing, and met her flustered gaze. "Zhen''er, you can do it."

    Lu Yanming''s voice was steady and powerful, carrying an irresistible convincing force.

    He looked at her silently, enunciating each word: "You can do it, because you are Li Zhen."

    Because she was Li Zhen?

    Li Zhen''s heart thumped loudly in her chest.

    Her thoughts drifted far away.

    Below the stage of "The Song of Evesting Sorrow", many people had shouted her name as well: Li Zhen.

    But it had been so long ago that the memories had faded.

    Lu Yanming''s words that night carried her youthful dreams, forcefully crashing against her heart that had been numb for years.

    "What a great age, just 26."

    "It''s just the right time for our Zhen''er to punch shadows and kick big stars, standing in the brightest spotlight."

    "While everyone else gazes up at you from below the stage."

    "Zhen''er," Lu Yanming called back her wandering thoughts and pointed to the stage, "That''s where you belong."

 Chapter 77: You gotta be a pussy.

    <h4>Chapter 77</h4>

    Li Zhen nced at the stage along Lu Yanming''s hand.

    The actors on stage were fully invested, their backs drenched in summer sweat, but they seemed oblivious,pletely immersed in their roles.

    Such was the charm of performance.

    Li Zhen took a deep breath and withdrew her gaze from the stage. "Mr. Lu, I want to try."

    "Alright, let''s try."

    In the afternoon on the twelfth floor, after Li Zhen finished shooting, she sat in a corner of the studio looking at her phone intently.

    Zhang Xiya took a break from shooting halfway and squatted next to her with a cup of water.

    "The Actor''s Self-Cultivation?"

    Hearing the voice, Li Zhen quickly put away her phone. "Don''t peek."

    "The child is grown up now, having secrets now." Zhang Xiya pretended to feel emotional.

    Li Zhen rolled her eyes at her andughed. "Then you tell me first, who was the person that called you out to eat the other day?"

    "You''re so narrow-minded!" Zhang Xiya grumbled unhappily, then whispered, "The impact of yesterday''s incident was quite big. Jiang Kening''s matter has already spread throughout thepany."

    "That''s normal, there are no secrets in ourpany." Li Zhen was not surprised at all.

    Zhang Xiya went on, "Yesterday when Jiang Kening was taken away, she kept shouting Jiang Keyan. I heard Jiang Keyan didn''te to work today. She''s probably trying to find a way to help her."

    Even without Zhang Xiya''s words, Li Zhen could guess that the sisters Jiang Keyan and Jiang Kening have always been very close. Jiang Keyan would definitely not sit idly by.

    After work, Li Zhen got into Lu Yanming''s car in the garage.

    Fei Zhao followed the navigation to the Jincheng Grand Theater.

    Li Zhen kept looking at various performing arts books on her phone.

    Lu Yanming ced his hand over her phone screen, blocking her view. "Don''t be nervous."

    "I''m not nervous, Mr. Lu," Li Zhen retorted, ncing at him.

    "Your hands are shaking when holding the phone." Lu Yanming said softly, with a hint of a smile at the corner of his lips.

    Li Zhen''s face was awkward.

    She was a little nervous.

    After not touching acting for three years, now being asked to immediately take on a heavyweight drama,

    she felt both expectant and worried, and if she had topare the two, she was more worried.

    "Let''s find a ce to eat first." Lu Yanming instructed Fei Zhao in the front row.

    Before Fei Zhao could speak, Li Zhen quickly said, "Could you please take me to the theater first, and then you guys go eat? I won''t go."

    "Miss Li, that won''t do. You''ll be tired after rehearsingter, so have something to eat first." Fei Zhao slowly persuaded.

    Fei Zhao didn''t actually care about Li Zhen.

    If she didn''t eat, the young master would definitely be distressed.

    Feeling pressed for time, Li Zhen worried that she wouldn''t be able to keep up and just wanted to hurry over. She felt that eating would be a waste of time.

    Lu Yanming''s light eyes looked at the nervous Li Zhen. He said lightly, "Let''s go, go directly to the theater."

    Fei Zhao: ...You just cater to her every wish, for better or worse.

    "Deputy Director You, take Li Zhen to meet everyone and brief her on the script." Meng Changsheng called over a middle-aged woman.

    Deputy Director You came over, looked Li Zhen up and down, and said, "You''re Li Zhen, right? Come with me."

    Li Zhen felt a little apprehensive as she followed Deputy Director You and took a few steps. She looked back at Lu Yanming.

    Lu Yanming''s gaze was calm and unhurried. His eyes lightly met hers.

    Li Zhen smiled slightly, her mood suddenly rxing a little, and she turned to follow Deputy Director You.

    Seeing the two walk away, Meng Changsheng sat in the audience below the stage and patted the seat next to him. "Come, Yanming, sit."

    "Director Meng." Lu Yanming readily took a seat next to him.

    "Yanming... it''s about the national tour we talked aboutst time..." Meng Changsheng hesitated.

    Lu Yanming knew what he was thinking. "Director Meng, don''t worry. Since I made themitment, I will fulfill it."

    With these words from him, Meng Changsheng felt half-reassured.

    He sighed lightly. "As you know, it''s difficult for theater now. I''m considered decent, getting acim but not attracting big audiences. To realize a national tour, I guess the upfront cost will be no less than 20-30 million."

    Meng Changsheng was probing further.

    When he saw Li Zhen at the mall, Meng Changsheng was amazed and satisfied, but on closer inspection, she hadn''t been on stage for three years.

    He declined Lu Yanming''s offer.

    Unexpectedly, Lu Yanming took the initiative to arrange a national tour for him.

    Theater had already exited the mainstream stage, only insiders loved to watch it.

    Most of the time, the proceeds from ticket sales could barely support thisrge troupe.

    A national tour to bring his theater across the country could only be wishful thinking.

    Yet Lu Yanming hit his sore spot, making him want to try even if he didn''t believe it could happen.

    But he was afraid this young man was an outsider who didn''t know how hugely expensive it was to tour theater that didn''t sell well.

    He knew the 100 million this young man offered was for the sake of the woman just now.

    Meng Changsheng''s eyes were wet with tears. His voice hoarse, he said, "Yanming, don''t worry. I''ll leave Li Zhen to me. Whether it''s this performance or future tours, she will be the female lead."

    Lu Yanming smiled lightly, his gaze falling on Li Zhen in the corner of the stage listening to Deputy Director You exin the script.

    "No need, Director Meng. Zhenzhen doesn''t need to participate in future tours, just this once will do."

    This was just a starting point for her.

    Her future was striding through the clouds, rising straight to the ninth heaven.

    He would pave a highway to heaven for her.

    Deputy Director You brought Li Zhen up to speed very quickly.

    Not only did she carefully exin the script to her twice, she also had Li Zhen walk through the full rehearsal with the script the entire time.

    Towards the end of this first rehearsal, someone finally couldn''t stand it. They threw down the prop hat in their hand with a "snap", "Director Meng, are we really going to mess around like this? She''s a neering in to y the female lead? Isn''t this a joke?"

    The speaker was Zhu Yuting.

    The second female lead in this y.

    She originally thought the first female lead was ill, such an important role would definitely go to her. But a neer with no experience suddenly jumped in halfway.

    In this troupe full of theatrical veterans, Li Zhen was under tremendous pressure. Usually when people doubted her, she would fight back, but here...

    She didn''t have thepetence for the role, so she had to humble herself when humility was needed.

    Deputy Director You always listened to Meng Changsheng, but she also felt this was improper. She echoed, "Director Meng, Li Zhen is not bad, but to say she can handle the female lead... "

    Deputy Director You looked at Li Zhen with indistinct eyes.

    Shi Tianya, the male lead, had been holding himself back for a long time and didn''t want to endure any longer either. "We''re about to go on stage in a few days, and she''s following us around reading the script the whole time! Is this reasonable?"

    As Shi Tianya spoke, he pointed at the two men sitting below the stage. "You see, she even came with two men apanying her the whole time down there! Director Meng, if you''re tantly stuffing someone in for money, I''m not rehearsing!" This shit is disgusting!"

 Chapter 78: I canâ€™t write One in 10,000.

    <h4>Chapter 78</h4>

    The others also chimed in intermittently with murmurs of agreement.

    "Yeah, it''s too much for a neer to y the female lead."

    "With the tight schedule, I doubt we''ll finish in time..."

    "We need to recast..."

    Fei Zhao was furious! He stood up, wanting to head to the stage, but saw Lu Yanming raise his hand slightly, signaling him to sit down.

    "Yes, young master." Fei Zhao red at the people on stage, gritting his teeth as he sat back down.

    Lu Yanming didn''t look at the situation on stage, continuing to look at the page on hisptop.

    Li Zhen stood steadily on stage. It wasn''t appropriate for her to speak now. If Director Meng told her to leave, she would simply go.

    She herself also felt like she couldn''t do it.

    Meng Changsheng smiled and didn''t get angry. He beckoned to the male lead Shi Tianya and female lead two Zhu Yuting, "You two,e over."

    Shi Tianya and Zhu Yuting went over in confusion.

    Meng Changsheng brought them to the edge of the stage and said something to them in a low voice.

    The others couldn''t hear clearly.

    Suddenly, Shi Tianya and Zhu Yuting cried out in unison in surprise, "What!"

    The others looked at each other.

    What did he say?!

    After the three finished their whispered conversation, Zhu Yuting was the first to hurry over to Li Zhen, zing urgently.

    Li Zhen reflexively took two steps back.

    Zhu Yuting caught up to her and grabbed Li Zhen''s hand. Under the surprised gazes of everyone present, she enthusiastically and sincerely praised, "Good sister! From now on you are my sister from another mother! Don''t worry about acting, ask your big sister if you don''t understand anything!"

    Everyone: ...

    Assistant Director You: ...

    Just a minute ago she was calling her a neer, and now she''s her sister from another mother?

    Shi Tianya also grasped Li Zhen''s other hand, earnest and sincere, "Sister Li Zhen, from now on we are family! Brother was impatient earlier, don''t take offense!"

    Everyone: ...

    Assistant Director You: ...

    Assistant Director You waspletely confused. "Tianya, didn''t you just say how disgusting it was..."

    And now they were family?

    Shi Tianya red at Assistant Director You. "Director You, what are you talking about! Watch what you say in front of my sister Li Zhen!"

    What disgusting.

    ttering for money is disgusting!

    But if you get paid a billion, get paid to support their national tour, can that be called getting paid? That''s a life-saving favor!

    After Shi Tianya finished, he quickly nced down below. "Brothers, can you see clearly down there? Should I get seats for you up here?"

    Fei Zhao wanted to curse back, but heard Lu Yanming say lightly to the stage: "No need to trouble you."

    "Sounds good, brother!" Shi Tianyaughed and nodded.

    Li Zhen was stunned by Shi Tianya and Zhu Yuting''s top-notch Sichuan opera face-changing.

    Before she could react, Zhu Yuting was already picking up the prop hat she had thrown on the ground earlier, radiant and eager. "Everyonee, let''s go through it again. My sister Li Zhen isn''t familiar yet, so let''s partner with her."

    Originally Meng Changsheng had arranged for Li Zhen to rehearse more at the theater to get familiar.

    But now Zhu Yuting says "My sister is a natural talent, no need to rush, go slowly, don''t stay upte and hurt my sister''s health."

    And Shi Tianya says "Sister Li Zhen''s performance is shockingly good, she can''t rehearse all night with us rough folks."

    So Li Zhen was confused as the two escorted her out of the theater at 11pm, while everyone else kept rehearsing.

    After showering, shey sideways on the sofa, looking at the gurgling Jinjiang River through the floor-to-ceiling windows.

    Suddenly, her view was blocked.

    The gurgling water transformed into a pair of bright eyes, looking at her calmly.

    The corners of Lu Yanming''s eyes creased withughter. His voice was very soft in the night. "Why have you been showering downstairs these past few days and gotten used to sleeping on the sofa?"

    Lu Yanming''s voice was gentle and soothing, making Li Zhen''s ears tingle.

    "This sofa you bought is expensive, it''sfortable to sleep on, so I wanted to sleep here."

    It was hard to find an excuse to sleep separately.

    It was much more fitting to say she liked the sofa since Lu Yanming had said he changed it because he liked the new sofa.

    Lu Yanming nodded thoughtfully. "I see."

    Li Zhen breathed a sigh of relief.

    The next second, Lu Yanming got on the sofa and slid to the inside. He hugged her from behind, "Then I''ll keep youpany on the sofa."

    "But isn''t it too cramped, Mr. Lu..." Li Zhen was enveloped by his faint woodsy scent, and the man''s body heat swiftly surrounded her.

    Although this sofa wasrger than normal, it was still very cramped for two people.

    The two of them were pressed tightly against each other.

    Li Zhen''s body temperature rose swiftly, though she didn''t know if it was because Lu Yanming''s warmth was contagious.

    Lu Yanming: "It is a bit cramped. Why don''t you sleep on the floor, Zhen Zhen?"

    Li Zhen: ...How typical of Lu Yanming.

    Li Zhen murmured softly, "If you want to sleep on the floor, you do it. I decided to sleep on the sofa first."

    "I won''t sleep on the floor. What if I catch a cold? Then I won''t be able to watch your performance next week, that would be such a loss." Lu Yanming chuckled lightly.

    He put his arm around Li Zhen''s waist, afraid she might fall off, and pulled her closer into his embrace.

    "Mr. Lu..." Li Zhen turned her head back to look at the man behind her in the darkness. Her tone was suddenly serious. "Thank you."

    Zhu Yuting and Shi Tianya''s change in attitude today must be because Lu Yanming gave them some benefit, though she didn''t know what. But Li Zhen knew that this time, she owed Lu Yanming a huge favor.

    If it wasn''t for Lu Yanming''s push, she might never have taken this step.

    In the moonlight, the nes of Li Zhen''s face alternated between light and shadow.

    They were so close their noses could touch. Lu Yanming could even see the fine fluff on her face clearly.

    Lu Yanming couldn''t stand her looking at him so attentively like this.

    "Two words of thanks is too lightweight..." Lu Yanming kissed Li Zhen''s lips, gently grinding over every inch of them. It was a long time before he let go. "A kiss is just right."

    Li Zhen was kissed until she was too ashamed to look at him. She red at him, then turned her head away and didn''t look at him again. "Mr. Lu, if you want a reward, can you discuss it with me next time?"

    "So stingy, not even a kiss?" Lu Yanming frowned, teasing her.

    "Just a kiss? Then take your hand off my chest." Li Zhen said angrily.

    She knew he had no good intentions getting on the sofa.

    Previously when she wanted it, Lu Yanming said she was aiming too high.

    But now that she didn''t want it, he was raring to go.

    "Just a little longer." Lu Yanming''s hand didn''t stop, but grew bolder instead, nuzzling her neck. "You asked me at noon what I was looking at on my phone. Want to know now?"

    From her experience dealing with Lu Yanming, it was best not to know right now.

    But Lu Yanming had already started speaking on his own. "It was fanfiction about the two of us."

    Li Zhen''s heart skipped a beat.

    "Let me read some to you..." Lu Yanming''s voice had a gritty texture that sounded even more refined and elegant in the night. "The big boss, Mr. Lu, makes the little employee Li Zhen get in his car in front of everyone. He locks the car windows..."

    "Mr. Lu takes off his belt, ties up her hands, and stuffs his ... in her mouth..."

    "Mr. Lu! Don''t say anymore." Li Zhen''s scalp prickled, and heat of embarrassment flushed her face in waves.

    "Alright, I won''t say anymore. Our Zhen Zhen has thin skin, she can''t take it."

    The man''s voice was right by her ear. "Why don''t we try it out, Zhen Zhen."

    The intimate way he said "Zhen Zhen" made it sound like they had a deep rtionship.

    Li Zhen''s breathing grew uneven, her voice trembling. "Mr. Lu..."

    She didn''t get to finish, because she was forcefully twisted around into a overpowering kiss that consumed her.

    Once they got started, things on the sofa became disorderly again.

    When Li Zhen''s consciousness floated highest, she heard Lu Yanming let out a muffled groan, murmuring deeply: "That fanfiction was nothing special either. She couldn''t even capture a ten thousandth of my Zhen Zhen''s beauty right now."

 Chapter 79: Welcome Back to Alma Mater

    <h4>Chapter 79</h4>

    After it ended, Li Zhen was carried by Lu Yanming to take a bath, and finally went back to the big bed.

    The n to sleep on the sofa was too difficult to implement. From when she said she wanted to stop for a month, Lu Yanming did not let her stop for a day.

    After washing away the stickiness, Li Zhen, who was lying on the bed, was not tired as usual, but was strangely energetic and had some trouble sleeping.

    In the deep dark night, Lu Yanming gently hugged her, "What''s wrong?"

    "President Lu, did you see my performance on stage today?" Li Zhen asked in a muffled voice.

    "I''m watching."

    "How do you think it was?"

    Lu Yanming pondered for two seconds without answering the question, just saying: "Tomorrow A University has a graduation performance, and your junior schoolmates from the film and television performance department will be on stage."

    "Li Zhen, go back and take a look, find your old self, you used to... never doubt yourself."

    Li Zhen called Ren Zongshun early in the morning to ask for leave.

    Fei Zhao drove her to the gate of A University.

    But Li Zhen got out of the car and saw Lu Yanming sitting steadily in the car, just looking at her quietly.

    "President Lu, aren''t you going in?" Li Zhen thought that since he was here anyway, he would take a look inside.

    "I won''t go in, I got off work to pick you up and take you to the theater." Inside the car, Lu Yanming lowered his head and fiddled with the pure gold cufflinks on his shirt, speaking casually.

    Li Zhen could only see his streamlined and handsome side profile.

    "Okay." Li Zhen knew Lu Yanming was busy with work, so she turned around and headed to school by herself.

    Not until Li Zhen''s footsteps faded away did Lu Yanming look up.

    He looked at her slender back, looked at the magnificent gate of A University, looked at the studentsing and going.

    In a trance, he went back to a few years ago.

    At that time, his almost self-abusing stubbornness, every time he secretly looked at Li Zhen, he would warn himself that it was thest time, but he couldn''t helping to see her again after a few days.

    He was enthusiastically happy to get close to Li Zhen, and at the same time desperately watched Yu Sheng be intimate with her.

    This suffocating tug of emotions almostpletely destroyed him in his then mentally unstable state.

    In just a few seconds, Lu Yanming''s eyes werepletely clear, sweeping over the dazzling gate of A University, and he softly ordered.

    "Drive."

    Outside the gatekeeper''s room at the gate of A University, it was extremely noisy at this time.

    "Uncle, let us in."

    "We just came to see a graduation performance and we''ll leave."

    "Go easy on us, uncle."

    A bunch of A University alumni wanted to go in today.

    Uncle at the gatekeeper''s room had a stern face, "No, no, unless you opened an invitation letter in advance, otherwise none of you cane in."

    The people who couldn''t get in saw that the uncle was adamant, so they could only hurry to contact people for help.

    Li Zhen squeezed through the crowd and went to the front row, "Uncle, what invitation letter is needed?"

    The uncle who was righteous just now recognized the person in front of him at a nce, "Oh my, isn''t this Li..."

    "Li Zhen, I''m Li Zhen, Uncle Zhou." Li Zhen said with a smile, her eyes bent and looked particrly attractive.

    The uncleughed, revealing two gold teeth, "You haven''t been back for many years. You must be here today to watch the performance, right?"

    "Yes, uncle." Li Zhen was surprised that the uncle still remembered her.

    "Go in quickly, go in quickly, wee back to your alma mater." The uncleughed and opened the gate lock.

    The people around were dumbfounded, and shouted loudly, "Hey, howe she can go in? You are favoring her!"

    The uncle nced at the yelling male student, "Are you from A University?"

    "Yes, I used to be." The male student hurriedly said.

    "She is Li Zhen." The uncle spoke slowly.

    The male student immediately shut up. So she was the Li Zhen...

    No wonder she could go in.

    She was the famously heroic woman from A University back then, a character with full marks.

    Alright, he conceded.

    Li Zhen walked into the auditorium and found a corner to sit down.

    The auditorium was filled with people.

    "Li Zhen?" A familiar voice came from behind.

    Li Zhen looked back, it was the ss teacher from university.

    "Teacher Liu?" Li Zhen looked pleasantly surprised.

    "I thought I recognized the wrong person, it really is you." Teacher Liu sat next to Li Zhen, excitedly grabbed her hand, "The teacher hasn''t seen you for a long time, I missed you so much! Why didn''t youe to see the teacher."

    Li Zhen felt sour in her heart, and smiled self-deprecatingly, "Teacher, I didn''t pursue acting after graduation, I don''t have the face to see you."

    Teacher Liu frowned, and regretfully said, "Li Zhen, you are the most spirited child I have taught. You really wasted your talent."

    Li Zhen was weighed down in her heart, and her breathing was heavy.

    She thought Teacher Liu would continue to nag her.

    But Teacher Liu changed the subject and said heavily, "However, the teacher still hopes that you can have a day to start over."

    Li Zhen''s heart was filled with warmth, "Teacher, I wasted three years, do you think I can still do it?"

    "Of course, it''s never toote, especially for you." Teacher Liuughed, giving the most powerful affirmation to her favorite student.

    Li Zhen alsoughed, from the bottom of her heart, but her eyes were a little wet.

    The graduation performance was still busy, so after chatting with Li Zhen for a few more sentences, Teacher Liu went backstage.

    Li Zhen sat below, watching graduates from other departments mostly doing chorus or skits, only her junior schoolmates from the film and television acting department pulled out all the stops at the graduation performance, and received rounds of apuse.

    This graduating ss happened to be Li Zhen''s junior schoolmates from when she was a college senior, and some people on stage, Li Zhen could even call out their names urately.

    The little friends who cheered her on three years ago when she performed, have now grown into towering trees.

    This kind of vigorous vitality that rushed up gave Li Zhen a strong sense of life force.

    Li Zhen thought, this was what she was like before.

    She could do it!

    She could do it before, and she could in the future!

    Thest performance ended.

    In the thunderous apuse, the host came on stage.

    "Distinguished leaders, teachers, and students, on this special day, we are holding a grand graduation ceremony for the graduating students. We have the honor of inviting A University''s outstanding alumnus Yu Sheng to give a graduation speech to everyone."

    Li Zhen below the stage was slightly stunned.

    Yu Sheng also came?

    As soon as the two words "Yu Sheng" came out, the apuse and cheers below were like thunder.

    For this graduating ss, the junior schoolmates from back then, who didn''t admire the popr schoolmate Yu Sheng at that time.

    The host''s voice was sonorous, although it was a manuscript, the tone could not conceal his admiration.

    "When Yu Sheng was in school, his major GPA was 4.0, his overall GPA was 3.87, with 43 courses with full marks."

    "He won a total of 63 awards in 4 years, including 14 full-English financial academic papers published in top international financial academic journals while in school, once won the first prize in international financial academics, and the special first prize for national financial new leaders."

    "Let''s wee with apuse: Yu Sheng..."

    The apuse in the auditorium was endless.

    Under the anticipation of the public, Yu Sheng took the stage.

    The bright spotlight on the stage fell on Yu Sheng''s upright figure, highlighting the casual arrogance of the youth, like the zing sun in the sky, magnificent as fire.

 Chapter 80: You two were in the back hills that day.

    <h4>Chapter 80</h4>

    Yu Sheng spoke slowly amidst the nonstop apuse. As hisst sentence "I wish you all to ride the wind, ascend to the heavens, and make all your idealse true" rang out, the entire venue stood up and apuded thunderously.

    Sitting in the audience, Li Zhen felt dazed.

    Memories engulfed her like ocean tides, and Li Zhen was suddenly struck by a feeling of absurdity.

    This scene was just like the freshman orientation when she was a freshman.

    It was as if the seven years were but a temporary illusion, and she had just woken up from a dream. She and Yu Sheng were still strangers who had never crossed paths.

    Li Zhen walked out of the auditorium, still drowned in the deafening apuse that seemed to never end.

    -

    Li Zhen strolled down the asphalt path aimlessly. Tree branches swayed lightly in the summer breeze. Sunlight danced yfully on her shoulders. University students clutching books hurried by her,ing and going in an endless stream.

    "Ding ding ding..."

    The sharp ring of a bicycle bell approached hastily, followed by a male and female yelp.

    "Move, move quickly..."

    Seeing the bicycle about to crash into Li Zhen, a pair ofrge hands grabbed her by the waist and gently pulled her aside, dodging the reckless bicycle.

    Li Zhen looked back. "Yu Sheng? Weren''t you in the auditorium?"

    "You came to see my speech. Why didn''t you wait for me so we could leave together?" After helping her stand firmly, Yu Sheng let her go.

    Li Zhen did not expect Yu Sheng to not only see her, but also misunderstand her intentions. "I only came to watch the event, not to see you..."

    Their conversation was interrupted as the young couple quickly stopped their bikes and jogged over.

    The boy apologized, "I''m sorry, I was teaching my girlfriend to ride a bike and she lost control of the direction just now..."

    "It''s okay." Li Zhen waved her hand dismissively.

    As soon as the girl came over, her eyes lit up upon seeing them. "You...you''re senior Li Zhen and senior Yu Sheng?"

    "You know us?" Yu Sheng raised an eyebrow slightly.

    The girl was extremely excited. "Senior Yu, I''m a freshman. Our school forum has so many posts about you and senior Li Zhen. You two are our idols!"

    Li Zhen had chased the icy prince for two years in university until she finally became his girlfriend. She was then doted on so much by the icy prince that the whole school knew about it. Back then, many little details about the two of them were dug up and talked about repeatedly by fans.

    Among them was a photo of the two that still had an active discussion thread going, with new couples from their university leavingments wishing to be blessed like them. They might as well be the god and goddess of rtionships.

    The girl pulled Li Zhen and pleaded, "Senior Li, could I ask you and senior Yu to take a picture with us? That way, we can be blessed to be in love forever too."

    Li Zhen''s eyebrows furrowed intensely...

    What was this girl saying, where was the logic in that? Taking a picture with them could let this couple be in love forever?

    Li Zhen guessed that the rumors about her and Yu Sheng were still circting in their university. She calmly replied, "I''m sorry, Yu Sheng and I are notfortable taking pictures together."

    The girl was puzzled. "Why not?"

    "Because we bro...broke up." Li Zhen swallowed the word "divorced".

    Yu Sheng shot Li Zhen a cold re, his sharp eyebrows scowling in displeasure.

    "What!" The girl''s eyes went wide in shock.

    After a few seconds, she gingerly asked again, "Senior Li, you must be joking with me, right?"

    Li Zhen: "No, I''m serious."

    The girl cycled through a myriad of expressions before taking a deep breath.

    She looked at her boyfriend and said, "Let''s break up."

    Li Zhen: ...

    Boyfriend: ...

    The girl''s beliefs were shattered. Her eyes brimmed red with tears welling up as she cried in despair, "Even they can break up. I will never believe in love again in this lifetime."

    The boyfriend was stunned. He had just confessed sessfully this morning, and they were breaking up in the afternoon already?

    The shelf life of love was way too short!

    The crying girl ran off.

    The boyfriend hurriedly chased after her.

    Yu Sheng let out a cold huff, "Spouting nonsense as you wish, are you happy now?"

    "Why can''t I say the truth? They are too emotionally fragile. You can''t me me for that." Li Zhen finally understood how crushing it was for fans when their idols broke up.

    But she still felt guilty.

    She opened a digital wooden fish app on her phone and started tapping on it with her finger.

    The app showed: Karma +1, Karma +1, Karma +1...

    She walked forward, her path blocked by Yu Sheng again. "Chao Wen and the others are still waiting for me at the auditorium door. Let''s go eat with him this afternoon."

    Li Zhen opened her mouth, about to object, but Yu Sheng continued, "Don''t refuse. I still have matters to discuss with you about returning to the Yu Residence tomorrow."

    The group arrived at a small restaurant near the school.

    The little restaurant was bustling with excitement. This was a small family business, and the couple running it were rushed off their feet.

    Zhou Chao Wen adhered to the principle of self-reliance in life and was toozy to wait for the boss. He took the initiative to grab menus and handed them to Li Zhen. "Sister-inw, order whatever you like to eat."

    The term "sister-inw" made Li Zhen''s scalp tingle ufortably.

    Now she really could not bear to hear them calling her that.

    Last time when she told Zhou Chao Wen about her divorce, it was like he didn''t register it at all.

    She ordered dishes and passed the menu back to Zhou Chao Wen.

    Zhou Chao Wen reached to take it but realized Li Zhen had not let go. "Sister-inw?"

    "Chao Wen, from now on call me by my name. Otherwise I''ll pretend I didn''t hear you." Li Zhen''s tone was stubborn.

    Zhou Chao Wen nced at Yu Sheng, who showed no reaction, so he could only acquiesce. "Sister Zhen."

    "Mm, much better on the ears now." Li Zhen released the menu.

    Yu Sheng''s gaze turned slightly cold.

    Wan Zhe was puzzled. They had been calling her sister-inw for seven years already.

    Ever since Li Zhen started pursuing Yu Sheng in freshman year, they knew Yu Sheng''s attitude towards her waspletely different from other girls chasing him.

    Back then, they would tease Li Zhen in front of Yu Sheng, calling her sister-inw, and Yu Sheng never stopped them.

    Why the sudden change in not allowing it now?

    The dishes arrived and Wan Zhe excitedly said, "Brother Yu, you were so cool on stage today. It brought me back to freshman orientation..."

    "I know right, I still remember that was the first time Si...Sister Zhen confessed to Brother Yu." Zhou Chao Wen hastily swallowed the term he was about to say mid-sentence.

    Yu Sheng nced at Li Zhen, who was sipping soup beside him, his expression serene with a gentle warmth in his brows and eyes that was seldom seen on normal days.

    "Bute to think of it, that wasn''t the first time we met Sister Zhen. It was the day before orientation, during new student registration and reporting..." Wan Zhe abruptly realized something was off and promptly shut up.

    But Zhou Chao Wen picked up where he left off, "Yeah, that''s right, it was the day before school. We were together with Brother Yu at the back hill of the school that day..."

    "Zhou Chao Wen." Yu Sheng''s voice turned icy cold all of a sudden.

    This unexpected scolding made Zhou Chao Wen react abruptly - Brother Yu had forbidden them from bringing up the incident at the riverside on the back hill in front of Li Zhen.

    Although they never knew the reason.

    After not seeing each other much these three years, Zhou Chao Wen had temporarily forgotten about it.

    Li Zhen, who was sipping soup, paused in surprise and looked at them curiously. "You guys were at the back hill that day too? Howe I never heard you mention it before? I thought only Yu Sheng was there."

    Li Zhen would always ask Zhou Chao Wen anything and he''d answer.

    Zhou Chao Wen''s mouth was faster than his brain. He blurted out, "We were all together with Brother Yu that day..."

 Chapter 81: Not a Thing of the past

    <h4>Chapter 81</h4>

    "Bang!"

    "Zhou Chaowen!" The low-quality ceramic bowlnded heavily on the old wooden table. Yu Sheng stood up abruptly, his eyes cold as ink.

    Zhou Chaowen was so frightened that his whole body shuddered.

    Damn it, how could he have blurted it out so carelessly!

    Wan Zhe sighed softly, "Not even food can keep your mouth shut!"

    The atmosphere suddenly dropped to freezing point. Li Zhen looked at them in confusion.

    Yu Sheng pulled Li Zhen along, "Let''s go."

    Watching their backs leaving, Zhou Chaowen regretfully pped himself on the mouth, "Why did I have to be so careless!"

    "I wonder why Brother Sheng refused to talk about that day?" Wan Zhe didn''t understand.

    Yu Sheng dragged Li Zhen to his car.

    Li Zhen''s wrist was pulled painfully. She jerked her hand away, "What''s wrong with you again!"

    "Nothing''s wrong with me. It''s time to go back to thepany." Yu Sheng frowned in irritation as he opened the passenger door.

    Li Zhen didn''t get in the car. With a "bang", she mmed the door shut. "Why can''t you mention what happened that day? What secrets are you three keeping from me?"

    Yu Sheng nced at her coldly, "It''s nothing. Don''t think too much about it."

    "Is it because of the so-called nude photos of me that were spread around that day? So you feel ashamed?" Other than that incident, Li Zhen couldn''t think of anything else that would make the three men so evasive.

    "Do you think I care about those photos?" Yu Sheng had never cared about the so-called "nude photos". His frown deepened as he spoke in a suppressed voice, "I just think the incident on the hillside that day was an old story from years ago, an insignificant little thing. I''ve already forgotten about it, and Zhou Chaowen shouldn''t have brought it up either."

    Li Zhen enunciated word for word, "That wasn''t an old story from years ago, nor was it a little thing."

    Right after Li Zhen finished speaking, a camellia petal floated down andnded on her shoulder.

    She nced sideways and took the petal off, holding it in her palm.

    It doesn''t disappear just because it''s forgotten.

    Although they were divorced, she would always remember that day from seven years ago.

    Even now, Li Zhen could recall it clearly.

    She was by the riverbank, and saw a girl jump in. She hesitated between rescuing her or not. The river''s current was too rapid. Even an adult man would have difficulty swimming ap, let alone her, a little girl, who had to pull someone out as well. Jumping in was gambling with her life.

    The people around gasped in rm.

    "What should we do now? Someone who can swim, jump in and save her!"

    "I dare not jump in. We won''t make it back out if we do."

    "No one would risk their life to jump in and save her, unless it was her own mother."

    "That girl doesn''t have a mother. She''s an orphan. That''s why she did something so extreme. She thought that man truly cared for her, that she had someone to rely on. But then..."

    It was at that moment that Li Zhen made her decision.

    She threw her phone and bag on the ground, and melodramatically dered to the people around, "Today, I''ll be her stand-in mom!"

    She had spent neen years in the rain. On a sudden impulse, she wanted to hold up an umbre for someone else.

    With a "ssh", she jumped in.

    She managed to get the girl back up onto the riverbank, but was herself swept away by the current.

    Rolling up and down in the river water, she was already exhausted. There was no air in her breaths, just water flooding into her chest and lungs.

    Then, she sank down.

    In her fading consciousness, she knew she might not make it out alive today, yet she wasn''t afraid at all.

    Her short life shed before her eyes.

    She had lived freely as she wished. She had lived enough.

    Finally she could see her mother again. Finally she could go to a ce with her mother. From now on, she would also be a child doted on by her mother. How wonderful.

    But suddenly, a wisp of air forcefully broke through the water filling her lungs.

    Someone was giving her air underwater.

    She came alive in an instant, clinging by instinct to the person before her, greedily gasping his breath.

    She was brought above the surface, brought to the riverbank.

    The man pumped the water out of her chest and throat.

    She was desperatelycking in oxygen. Her vision was a vast expanse of white.

    She only had one thought in her mind.

    So there was someone as brave as her in this world. She didn''t have a mother, yet someone was willing to risk his life to save her.

    The man ced her phone next to her, took off his jacket and covered her with it. "You''re so young, yet gambling your life to be someone''s stand-in mom? How childish."

    The man left.

    She was sent to a hospital. She was fine, just stayed at the hospital for half a day.

    The next day, at the school entrance ceremony, she was hailed by a pancake vendor. "Heroine!"

    Li Zhen walked over. The pancake vendor was extremely enthusiastic. "Heroine, it really is you! Come,e, have a pancake. It''ll be free for you from now on."

    Li Zhen recognized him as the person who had said the girl was an orphan.

    Yesterday, the person who saved her had brought her phone back to her, so he must have been standing next to her as well.

    Li Zhen asked, "Brother, did you see who saved me yesterday?"

    "I saw him. It was your school''s campus hunk. He lives near my house..."

    The vendor stopped abruptly mid-sentence.

    The campus hunk was currently living in a psychiatric hospital. It wasn''t appropriate for him to reveal that to others.

    The vendor changed what he was saying, "You want to find him? I heard people say all his news is on your school forum. You can check it out there."

    Then, Li Zhen was forcibly stuffed with a pancake.

    As she ate the pancake, she downloaded the school forum on her phone. It was flooded with photos of Yu Sheng and discussion threads about him.

    Li Zhen thought, so he''s that popr...

    And so, Li Zhen confessed to him at the entrance ceremony that day.

    At noon, Li Zhen went out for lunch. She couldn''t resist seeking out the pancake vendor again. "Hey Brother, the campus hunk lives near your home right? Can you help me deliver a letter to him every day?"

    The campus hunk was too difficult to pursue. He had been so cold when she confessed.

    She had to find another way.

    The vendor readily agreed. Every night at midnight when he got off work and went home, he would leave Li Zhen''s letter at the guardhouse of the psychiatric hospital.

    One letter every day, rain or shine.

    For two whole years.

    The content of the letters was very simple. She wrote about the fresh sights she saw every day, about her growth, worries and happiness.

    At the end, she would write, "Campus hunk, I''m the lovely and spirited Li Zhen. If you don''t fall for me, you''re missing out big time!"

    At the very bottom, she would carefully write, "To: Yu Sheng."

    After getting together with Yu Sheng in their third year, Li Zhen stopped writing.

    Recalling those letters, Li Zhen asked Yu Sheng, "By the way, you must have burned those letters I wrote in our first and second year right? No point keeping them anymore."

    Yu Sheng''s expression froze for a second. "I threw them away long ago."

    After speaking, Yu Sheng deeply inhaled, "Like I said, those letters aren''t important, nor is what happened at the riverside. To you, what''s important should be me as a person..."

    Li Zhen coldly cut him off, "The feelings are gone, but I''ll remember your lifesaving grace for the rest of my life."

    "I don''t want you to remember it!" Yu Sheng said sharply, his voice almost squeezed out between gritted teeth. "Li Zhen, who is it that you loved? Was it me who saved you, or me as Yu Sheng!"

    Li Zhen: "It was all you, what''s the difference? We''re strangers now. I just liked you before, that''s all. Your question is meaningless..."

    Li Zhen left, frowning as she thought, Yu Sheng was truly iprehensible today.

    Yu Sheng knew Li Zhen was avoiding the issue.

    She didn''t want to answer this question.

    There was a dull ache in Yu Sheng''s chest. The bitter feeling surged forth like a tidal wave.

    In their fourth year, he went to Find with Li Zhen.

    After enduring it for four years, he finally graduated. When he returned from Find, he could bring Li Zhen back home. She would be the envy of all as the young Madam Yu. She could have everything she wanted.

    In the snow castle hotel in Find, the two of them looked out at the distant northern lights through the panoramic windows. Under the massive, brilliant glow, he passionately kissed her and removed her nightgown.

    The tender, wless skin of the young maiden was as white as the finest uncarved jade. With just a little force, it would leave behind vivid marks.

    The desires he had suppressed for four years made him very tense and hard. It was like being grilled over a fire. Just a little more heat and he would explode.

    He was too nervous to know what to do.

    Li Zhen shyly raised her head in his embrace. A flush suffused her fair face, making her look amazingly beautiful. "Yu Sheng, it''s okay today. I''m willing."

    "From the moment you saved me four years ago, I had decided to give myself to you..."

    In that instant, icy water came pouring down over his head. Yu Sheng''s blood turned frigid in an instant.

    Like a powerless clown, he was gripped by the throat by fate, unable to move at all. It was absurd, like a ckedy.

    He had known since their first year, yet why did Li Zhen have to say it again at this exact moment!

    He got up from the bed and fled in panic.

 Chapter 82: Self-deception

    <h4>Chapter 82</h4>

    Yu Sheng couldn''t ept that when they were intimate, Li Zhen was thinking of another man.

    He wanted to wait until the day she truly fell in love with him.

    He was greedy and arrogant to this extent - he wanted her soul, her whole heart.

    Yu Sheng pulled himself out from his memories back to reality, but the ache in his heart didn''t lessen one bit.

    Tomorrow was Mother''s birthday banquet, very important. He couldn''t allow his emotions to spiral out of control at such a critical juncture.

    Yu Sheng forced himself to calm down.

    When he returned from Find in his senior year of university, telling Mother about Li Zhen''s existence, Mother was never able to ept Li Zhen.

    Uncle, Mother''s only kin who hadn''t returned home in years, had agreed to advise her, and so seeded halfway.

    Yu Sheng walked around the front of the car, wanting to drive back to thepany, but saw Zhou Chaowen standing nkly next to the car.

    Yu Sheng''s dark eyes were icy cold, his expression calm. "How much did you hear?"

    He would only lose control in front of Li Zhen. Facing others, he was always steady to the point of impable.

    Zhou Chaowen was afraid they would fight, so he followed to see the situation. He didn''t expect to overhear this matter.

    Zhou Chaowen''s mind was in chaos. "Brother Sheng, you''re deceiving Sister Zhen. This isn''t right."

    "Chaowen, you must remember..." Yu Sheng approached Zhou Chaowen, putting a hand on his shoulder, his tone certain and not up for questioning, "The one who saved her is me, the one she loves is also me. Before, now, and in the future."

    The hand on his shoulder exerted force.

    Bringing an intense oppressive feeling.

    Zhou Chaowen broke out in a cold sweat, knowing this was Yu Sheng''s warning to him, but he still couldn''t help speaking up. "Brother Sheng, you''re only fooling yourself. The one who saved Sister Zhen is someone else..."

    Zhou Chaowen had just opened his mouth when he was immediately interrupted.

    "There is no one else. If another person who saved her appears one day..." Yu Sheng got in the car and stomped on the gas pedal, his gaze devoid of warmth as he looked ahead.

    "Then he can only be a dead man."

    The icy words drifted away with the car.

    Zhou Chaowen stood frozen in ce, unable to collect himself for a long time.

    In the employee cafeteria of Honghai Corporation, Wang Pengzily yawned after eating.

    It was that happy afternoon nap time again.

    Lately Wang Peng had been busy following Lu Yanming, so only noon felt like it belonged to himself.

    "Director Wang, let''s go." Lu Yanming tapped the tabletop with his fingertips.

    Wang Peng got up and the two walked out.

    Passing by a dining table, Wang Peng halted his steps. "Oh, Manager Zhao, howe it''s just you alone? Director Yu is busy again and didn''t eat?"

    Wang Peng was quite concerned about Yu Sheng''s health.

    He was the only workaholic in the wholepany. He couldn''t work himself into the ground.

    Otherwise Wang Peng would have to find anotherpetent marketing director up there.

    "No, Director Yu went back to campus today, he''s not at thepany," Zhao Yan replied.

    Lu Yanming, who had already walked two steps away, paused.

    "Oh, that''s great. Director Yu should rx and get out more, not be cooped up in the office every day." Wang Peng nodded satisfied.

    After Wang Peng left, Tian Pingwei grumbled discontentedly, "What do you mean alone, am I not a person?"

    Afterining, he quietly asked Zhao Yan again, "Uncle, ourpany is so people-oriented, can I also go take care of my own affairs in the afternoon? Today I also want to..."

    "You wanna fart and eat it?" Zhao Yan fiercely red at his very capable eldest nephew. "That''s Director Yu. Of course Boss Wang manages in a people-oriented way. If it were someone else, you try it!"

    Having said that, Zhao Yan nced at the message on his phone and got up. "Don''t eat anymore, go back to the office. Director Yu asked me to send a file to thepany entrance for him. He''s going out to discuss business this afternoon, we''ll go with him."

    Lu Yanming returned to the office and sent Li Zhen a message on his phone.

    He typed on his phone: Did you run into any acquaintances when you went back to campus today?

    Deleted it, then typed again: What are you up to?

    Deleted again.

    Lu Yanming threw his phone on his desk and knitted his brows, tugging at his tie.

    He picked up his phone again and sent a message. [How was the performance?]

    Li Zhen replied very quickly. [Extremely good. My junior schoolmates are very capable, itforted my heart.]

    The corners of Lu Yanming''s perfect lips unconsciously curved up. [What time are youing back? I''lle get you.]

    [I''m already on my way back, almost at thepany.]

    [So fast?]

    [The performance was only half a day. I ate lunch then came back.]

    Lu Yanming got up and left the office.

    Lu Yanming: [How long until you get to thepany?]

    Li Zhen: [Five minutes probably. No traffic jams at noon feels really nice.]

    In the car, Li Zhen looked at the messages feeling it was strange. Lu Yanming asked her in such detail.

    Replying back and forth, it really seemed like a warm casual chat between a long married couple.

    Five minutester, the taxi slowly drove up and stopped at thest red light before Honghai Corporation.

    Li Zhen looked out the window and saw a familiar figure standing in the distance under the zing sun.

    Lu Yanming wore a crisp light gray long-sleeved shirt, tall and straight without a single crease, the pure gold cufflinks on his wrists glinting.

    Even just standing there silently, there was an aura of unattainable nobility beneath his gold-rimmed sses.

    It was precisely things untouched by dust that made one want to tease them.

    Li Zhen snapped a photo with a "ka-cha" and opened Lu Yanming''s messaging window, clicking send.

    [There''s a handsome guy by the roadside. Boss Lu, teach me how to strike up a conversation with him?]

    After Li Zhen sent the message, she looked up out the window to see Lu Yanming''s reaction.

    He took out his phone, first ncing in the direction of Li Zhen''s car, then lowered his head, long fingers tapping the screen.

    "Ding."

    A message came in.

    Li Zhen opened it.

    Lu Yanming: [It would be difficult. His looks are quite good.]

    Li Zhen couldn''t help smiling.

    Li Zhen: [Boss Lu, I was just joking earlier. When I get off the carter don''t greet me, go about your business.]

    At the Honghai entrance, Li Zhen didn''t want to appear too familiar with Lu Yanming.

    Li Zhen didn''t receive another message from Lu Yanming after that.

    The traffic light turned green and the taxi drove past, stopping at the Honghai Corporation entrance.

    Li Zhen got off the car, sweeping her eyes fleetingly over Lu Yanming then swiftly looking away again, hurrying forward.

    But the man behind her was tall with long legs, catching up to her in a few strides.

    Li Zhen was startled and looked back. "Boss Lu."

    She tugged her hand free, whispering, "Go about your business..."

    Lu Yanming ced an iced Americano in her hand. "I just bought this for you next door."

    The cool, refreshing sensation slowly dissipated the stuffy summer heat. Li Zhen looked at the coffee in her hand, her moodplicated. "You were waiting for me on purpose by the roadside?"

    Their casual rtionship had only been half a day without seeing each other, yet Lu Yanming was suddenly being so nice to her again.

    Could it be because...

    "To get in my pants again, Boss Lu, aren''t you trying too hard?" Li Zhen sighed, feeling the pressure was too much.

    Ever since she said to wait a month, he had been so attentive.

    A trace of softughter spilled from Lu Yanming''s throat. "Compared to your past efforts, I''m still not doing enough."

    Li Zhen thought about the enthusiasm with which she had pestered Lu Yanming every day previously, and her face instantly turned red.

    She stubbornly brazened it out. "See, Boss Lu, you have to own up when you go out into society. Who told you to ignore me before?"

    "So now I''m out of my reach?"

    "That''s not what I meant. But really not possible recently, have to wait a month." Li Zhen''s gaze was evasive.

    In the roadside car.

    Yu Sheng moved to sit in the backseat, Tian Laiwei sat in the driver''s seat to drive.

    The sharp-eyed Tian Pingwei excitedly said, "Director Yu, look, isn''t that Li Zhen!"

    Beside him, Zhao Yan''s heart nearly stopped when he looked over.

    That was indeed Li Zhen.

    But there was also Boss Lu!

    Did this excellent nephew of his not have a brain! Not have a brain!

    Why point this out to Director Yu!

 Chapter 83: The air conditioner is on in the car.

    <h4>Chapter 83</h4>

    Zhao Yan forced an awkwardugh and changed the subject, "Wow, the weather is really hot today. Summer in Jin City isn''t summer, it''s an oven!"

    Tian Pingwei reached out and felt the air conditioner vent, "The air conditioning is on in the car, Manager Zhao."

    Zhao Yan gritted his back teeth!

    He took out his phone and sent a message, "Sis, do you want your silly son or your good little brother? You choose one."

    "Drive," Yu Sheng coldly spoke from the backseat.

    "Yes, President Yu," Tian Pingwei responded.

    The car drove past the building, brushing shoulders with the two people on the side of the road.

    Yu Sheng looked out the window.

    At that moment, his eyes met Lu Yanming''s.

    Just one nce, the car sped by swiftly.

    Yu Sheng retracted his gaze, his tone cold, "You said there was a group chatst time, what has it been talking about recently?"

    Zhao Yan''s back stiffened.

    The past two days, the group chat had been talking about President Lu sending Li Zhen home from the IF Mall at night.

    "Nothing much, still just President Lu and Qiao Yi''s affairs, President Lu probably just asked Li Zhen to help deliver coffee to Qiao Yi earlier," Zhao Yan quietly searched his conscience.

    It hurt a little.

    Yu Sheng didn''t ask further. His dark eyes closed slightly as he lightly leaned back in his seat, "Wake me when we get there."

    Li Zhen carried the coffee back to the office.

    Her co-workers were all taking their lunch breaks at their desks. Li Zhen reclined her chair into aying position and took a nap too.

    In her drowsiness, someone tapped her shoulder, "Li Zhen."

    Li Zhen opened her eyes, above her was a pair of charming eyes, coldly staring at her.

    It was Jiang Keyan.

    Jiang Kening''s older sister, the big shot in the PR department.

    Li Zhen sat up, still dazed from sleep, "Manager Jiang."

    Li Zhen''s eyes were rubbed red like a pair of crescent moons, beautifully blossoming like a bashful red rose.

    Jiang Keyan scoffed inwardly, Li Zhen was only able to hook Yu Sheng with her fox-like charm, causing her younger sister to still be detained right now.

    "Li Zhen, I want to chat with you about something, do you have five minutes?" Jiang Keyan asked with a smile, but her eyes were very cold.

    Li Zhen looked at the time, it was already 2pm, lunch break was over, and her co-workers were gradually waking up and getting ready to work.

    Li Zhen didn''t want others to see Jiang Keyan harassing her, so she readily stood up, "Okay."

    The two went to the hallway by the office door.

    Jiang Keyan got straight to the point, "Li Zhen, name your price."

    Jiang Keyan had an air of confidence, which looked very irritating in Li Zhen''s eyes.

    Li Zhen pretended not to understand, "What price? I don''t know what you mean."

    Jiang Keyan frowned.

    For the past two days, she had contacted all sides for her sister''s matter. ording to reason, this shouldn''t have been a big deal, but strangely, the responses she got from all parties were uniformly: It''s already set in stone, nothing can be done.

    She had pleaded with the General Manager of the Legal Department several times, losing face.

    Only then did he vaguely tell her: "Thewsuit this time was filed under thepany''s name, the top management of thepany has a very firm stance. If you really want to save your sister, perhaps the best approach would be to find Li Zhen and have her write a letter of understanding to the police station."

    "Li Zhen, it was wrong of my sister before, but it''s not worth all this. Just name your price for a letter of understanding, and she cane out sooner," Jiang Keyan softened her tone, but the hatred in her eyes wasn''t well concealed.

    "I''m sorry, she''s not worth much money, I don''t n on selling her," Li Zhen smiled lightly, her words unusually resolute.

    Jiang Keyan couldn''t hold back her anger for a moment, "Don''t pretend, do you really think you can marry into the Yu family? Wishful thinking."

    Li Zhen found itughable.

    Why did the Jiang sisters have to preemptively conclude that she must want to marry into Yu Sheng?

    "Manager Jiang, not everyone is like you with the goal of marrying into a wealthy family. To me, marrying into a wealthy n is not as good as being the wealthy n myself."

    Li Zhen would rather put in more effort herself to obtain shares in Li Corp than gamble her entire life on a man.

    Jiang Keyan sneered coldly, "Fine, since you''re unwilling topromise on this, I can only take it up with thepany."

    She looked at the time and notified Li Zhen, "See you in half an hour."

    Li Zhen didn''t quite understand Jiang Keyan''s meaning.

    Half an hourter, she understood.

    Ren Zongshun found her, looking weary, "The PR department has a joint meetingter that we need to attend to coordinate. Come with me to the PR departmentter."

    The PR department handled external public rtions issues across departments. When matters involved the relevant departments, joint meetings were often held to discuss.

    Li Zhen was puzzled, "What business could I have at the PR department?"

    Ren Zongshun said: "It''s about Jiang Kening. The IF Mall made a ssh about this incident to build momentum? It affects ourpany, so we need to resolve it quickly."

    When Li Zhen followed Ren Zongshun into the PR department''s meeting room, there were already quite a few people inside.

    In addition to the PR department, there were also some from other departments.

    Ren Zongshun brought her to sit in a corner.

    Jiang Keyan, who was originally fiddling with the projector at the very front, walked over and said smilingly, "Li Zhen, I sought you privately earlier but you wouldn''t give me face, so I can only bring up the matter publicly now."

    Jiang Keyan didn''t actually want to publicize her sister''s matter, but she had no other recourse after hitting walls everywhere.

    She could only use this method to pressure Li Zhen at thepany level.

    "Quite the dutiful sister, making such efforts for your sister, but it would be better to have taught her well earlier," Li Zhen advised her calmly.

    Jiang Keyan''s expression was ugly, "Keep gloating for now. Later when thepany makes you write a letter of understanding in front of everyone, don''t feel too awful."

    After saying that, Jiang Keyan left a cold smile and went to prepare her PPT.

    Li Zhen was speechless! The Jiang sisters were harder to deal with than thest!

    As Jiang Keyan came and went, probing looks were cast Li Zhen''s way one after another.

    The photos of Li Zhen being sent home by Lu Yanming the other night were posted in the Macho Banquet group, and many now recognized her.

    Someone sneakily snapped a picture of her and posted it in the group.

    "How did Li Zhen get to participate in this meeting too?"

    Seeing a recent hot topic figure appear, everyone immediately responded.

    "I have a feeling this meeting is not simple."

    "Wherever this sister has been recently, it''s been stormy."

    "Jealous of those present, I really want to go watch!"

    As the group kept gossiping, the General Manager of PR''s phone also kept ringing nonstop.

    The General Manager of Legal saw the time and urged, "It''s time, shall we start the meeting?"

    "I''m afraid..." The General Manager of PR looked at the messages on his phone, eyebrows furrowed tightly, "I''m afraid we''ll have to wait a bit, President Yu just messaged that he wants to participate."

    "Huh?" The General Manager of Legal was confused.

    PR department joint meetings were usually quite long-winded, and President Yu had never participated before.

    Why today...

    Just as everyone was feeling puzzled, the door of the meeting room was pushed open.

    To their shock...

    Lu Yanming walked in...

 Chapter 84: For Your sisterâ€™s Honor.

    <h4>Chapter 84</h4>

    Lu Yanming''s nearly 1.9 meter tall figure suddenly brought a strong sense of oppression into the room.

    He was followed by Wang Peng, one in front and one behind.

    Everyone quickly got up and said in unison, "Chairman Wang, Chairman Lu."

    It was said that President Yu woulde too. Now Chairman Lu and Chairman Wang are here too?

    It''s so lively today!

    The director of the public rtions department hurriedly came up and said, "Chairman Wang, Chairman Lu, why did you twoe?"

    For such a small meeting, all the big shots are here!

    The director of the public rtions department was sweating.

    He didn''t prepare much for today''s meeting either. What if something goes wrongter!

    Jiang Keyan frowned. She was going to put pressure on Li Zhen today, but suddenly so many top leaders came.

    "I have never attended your public rtions department meeting before, so I came to observe," Lu Yanming walked to the front of the conference table and casually pulled out a chair.

    He took off his coat and put it on the back of his chair. His shirt was stretched by the distinct contours of his muscr physique.

    The people sitting below were drooling all over the ce, and the number of hunk photos in the group chat rose sharply.

    ¡¾Wow, sisters, new photos!¡¿

    ¡¾Love those muscles!¡¿

    ¡¾So envious! Why do you get to sit with Chairman Lu!¡¿

    It was a long rectangr conference table.

    Li Zhen sat at the end.

    Lu Yanming sat at the very front.

    With just a slight nce, Lu Yanming could see Li Zhen''s expression clearly.

    "Let''s start the meeting," Lu Yanming said, looking at the director of the public rtions department.

    The director replied carefully, "President Yu said he''s on his way back to thepany and asked us to wait for him."

    Wang Peng nodded, "Then President Yu probably has something to say. Let''s wait."

    "It''s gettingte," Lu Yanming''s tone was neither light nor heavy.

    "Then let''s start," Wang Peng said immediately, forgetting that Lu Yanming and Yu Sheng were not on good terms. How could he be willing to wait for Yu Sheng?

    "Okay, okay..." The director of the legal department was very nervous. It was just a small meeting, but it suddenly felt like a trial with three judges.

    The first two or three issues were minor ones involving the administrative and legal departments. Usually, it would take at least half an hour to finalize the coordination n across departments.

    But today, with two top leaders present, things went surprisingly smoothly and execution ns were agreed upon in just a few words.

    "Next is the IF Mall incident. They exaggerated Jiang Kening''s shoplifting incident in the mall." The director of the public rtions department nced at Jiang Keyan.

    "Director Jiang, please brief us on the details."

    Jiang Keyan stood up and turned on the news hot search images on the projector. "Leaders, IF Mall wants to create momentum for themselves in all aspects, so they pushed this incident to the top of the local social hot search. They made a big fuss about it, which is extremely detrimental to Macro Ocean, but brings us no benefits at all..."

    Sitting in the corner, Li Zhen would asionally receive Jiang Keyan''s provocative nces.

    But she didn''t pay any attention at all. She was just ying on her phone...

    Ren Zongshun scratched his head in irritation, "Even after leaving, Jiang Kening is still causing me trouble..."

    Jiang Keyan spoke passionately and vigorously.

    Lu Yanming, who had not spoken since the start of the meeting, suddenly spoke up, "So this..."

    Lu Yanming couldn''t remember her name.

    "Jiang, our department''s Director Jiang," the director of public rtions quickly reminded respectfully.

    "So Director Jiang, what do you think we should do about this matter?" Lu Yanming''s gaze lightly fell on Jiang Keyan.

    Jiang Keyan said solemnly, "Chairman Lu, because thepany charged Kening with multiple crimes including theft and intentional injury."

    "I suggest that for the sake of thepany''s reputation, thepany should withdraw thewsuit, and Li Zhen should also write a letter of understanding to downy this incident."

    "Otherwise, with IF Mall continuing to exploit this incident for publicity, it would greatly damage thepany''s public image."

    After speaking, Jiang Keyan looked at Li Zhen and asked with a smile under everyone''s gaze, "Li Zhen, I''m sure you''ll consider thepany''s interests and write the letter of understanding, right?"

    Everyone looked quietly at Li Zhen.

    What Jiang Keyan said made a lot of sense.

    To resolve this matter quickly for the sake of thepany, they might as well let Jiang Kening pay thepany morepensation.

    Li Zhen lowered her head silently in the corner without moving.

    Jiang Keyan called out loudly again, "Li Zhen?"

    Li Zhen suddenly raised her head and looked around, "What''s up?"

    "What I just said, what do you think?" Jiang Keyan suppressed her anger.

    "What did you say? Could you repeat it? I''m sitting too far away to hear clearly," Li Zhen said lightly with a smile. She actually heard it, but she had to suppress Jiang Keyan''s momentum a little.

    Jiang Keyan nearly choked on her own blood.

    She had just spoken passionately and ardently for more than ten minutes, but Li Zhen didn''t hear a word?

    Repeat it?

    Did she think Jiang Keyan was a tape recorder?

    Dozens of eyes were fixed on Jiang Keyan, and she could only swallow her anger and say briefly, "For thepany''s reputation, I hope you can write a letter of understanding and our legal department will simultaneously withdraw thewsuit against Jiang Kening."

    "I see, so that''s what it was about." Li Zhen nodded and stood up.

    She had a slender figure, but exuded a sense of resilience.

    Li Zhen looked straight at Jiang Keyan from afar, "Is this for thepany''s reputation, or for your sister''s reputation?"

    This awakened everyone, and they whispered to each other.

    On deeper thought, Jiang Keyan was after all doing this for her own sister.

    "Of course it''s for thepany," Jiang Keyan''s tone had clearly weakened, then she raised her voice again, "So you''ll agree, right? After all, we''re both doing this for thepany."

    Jiang Keyan''s tone was aggressive and pressing.

    Everyone''s eyes shifted between the two.

    Lu Yanming''s expression was cold, and he was about to speak.

    But Yu Sheng''s low shout suddenly came from the door, "She does not agree."

 Chapter 85: Canâ€™t Do It Then donâ€™t do it.

    <h4>Chapter 85</h4>

    Yu Sheng strode in withrge steps.

    Everyone in the conference room looked up, quite surprised.

    One was a little hand model from the advertising department.

    One was the director of the marketing department.

    Yu Sheng suddenly stood up to protect them, so there must be something going on between these two!

    Jiang Keyan''s heart sank deeply. She had heard from Jiang Kening that there was something unusual between Yu Sheng and Li Zhen, but she hadn''t expected him to protect Li Zhen so openly in front of so many people.

    Now that Yu Sheng was here, it looked like he was determined to protect Li Zhen.

    Jiang Keyan made onest attempt, "President Yu, you may not have heard the content of the meeting just now, but this is also for the good of thepany."

    "Who are you to represent thepany?" Yu Sheng nced at her, vaguely revealing a hint of ferocity.

    "If thepany doesn''t withdraw thewsuit and Li Zhen doesn''t write an apology letter, then how will this matter be resolved? We can''t just let IF keep riding our poprity!" Jiang Keyan threw the question to Yu Sheng.

    "Withdrawing thewsuit is out of the question," Yu Sheng took out his phone, his tone devoid of warmth, "As for the hot search results, I''ll contact them now to take it down."

    Jiang Keyan gritted her teeth, already hating him to the core.

    But she could only reassure herself that although she couldn''t save her sister for the time being, at least getting the hot search results taken down was good.

    The hot search results had photos of her sister, blurred with mosaics, but the impact was still not small!

    Yu Sheng had just pressed the call button when he noticed a figure walking over.

    The next second, Lu Yanming''s long, slender fingers pressed the end call button.

    Yu Sheng looked at the extinguished phone screen and frowned, "What is President Lu trying to do?"

    Images shed through Yu Sheng''s mind of Lu Yanming and Li Zhen together at the front door of the building at noon.

    Even though he knew it was Lu Yanming who had asked Li Zhen for help, he still didn''t like the sight of Lu Yanming right now.

    "Is President Yu always so rash in doing things?" Lu Yanming''s eyes behind his gold-rimmed sses were clear and tranquil as he gazed quietly at Yu Sheng.

    "What insights does President Lu have?" Yu Sheng''s dark eyes grew even darker.

    In all these years, Lu Yanming was the first person to call him rash.

    Lu Yanming didn''t answer, but turned and asked the PR director, "Do you have the contact number for IF Mall''s PR department?"

    Everyone was confused by Lu Yanming''s actions, unsure of what he intended to do.

    Li Zhen had sat down early and was watching dryly as the few people in front of her talked back and forth. She couldn''t get a word in edgewise.

    "Yes, yes, yes." The PR director took out his phone and handed it to Lu Yanming.

    Lu Yanming took it and dialed IF directly with the PR director''s phone.

    The phone was ringing.

    The PR director looked embarrassed. "President Lu, are you trying to connect directly with their PR department to get them to take down the hot search results? They won''t do it. They really want to use this incident to generate some local hype."

    Yu Sheng frowned. "President Lu has been in a high position for a long time. It seems he thinks everything can be easily resolved."

    Wang Peng fidgeted anxiously, afraid Lu Yanming would be discouraged. "Yanming, why not let President Yu make the call instead? He''s more familiar with them."

    Li Zhen''s gaze fell on Lu Yanming''s calm face. She wasn''t worried for him at all. He never did anything without certainty.

    He wanted the other party to withdraw it, so they certainly would withdraw it.

    Although Li Zhen didn''t know how Lu Yanming would convince them, she didn''t doubt him one bit.

    Lu Yanming just listened quietly to the phone until someone answered.

    Everyone in the conference room was extremely curious, ears pricked up high.

    Lu Yanming''s tone was unhurried, "Hello, this is the PR department of HongHai. I saw your news these past two days and felt the contentcked precision."

    "Yes, I suggest removing the mosaics from Jiang Kening''s face to reveal her full face. There''s no need to conceal her identity."

    "After you do that, notify us and HongHai will buy a few more hot search terms."

    "Take this opportunity to promote our SCC''s new collection."

    Jiang Keyan: ......

    Wang Peng: ......

    PR Manager: ......

    Li Zhen: ......

    Everyone: ......

    The other party clearly agreed very readily.

    Lu Yanming hung up the phone and handed it back to the PR director. "You can follow up on the rest. The headlines could be something like ''SCC employees can''t resist risking it all to steal coveted jewels''..."

    The PR manager numbly took the phone, still processing what had just happened.

    Everyone was shocked speechless.

    Even capitalists would say it was brilliant. The new vice president had squeezed everyst bit of value out of this discarded pawn Jiang Kening!

    The leadership was indeed ruthless, their means extremely high level!

    Jiang Keyan finally recovered from her stunned state, nowpletely devastated. "President Lu! You''ve pushed my sister into the fiery pit! How can she live after this!"

    Lu Yanming turned and walked to the seat, draping his suit jacket over his sturdy, powerful arm.

    His voice was very light, with no discernable emotion. "If she can''t live, then she shouldn''t live."

 Chapter 86: Rise to Business Fan

    <h4>Chapter 86</h4>

    Jiang Keyan''s face turned pale white.

    Today she had wanted to rescue her sister and take down the trending topic, but she didn''t manage to rescue her. Instead, Honghai Corporation ruthlessly pushed her sister into the public eye without any cover.

    That was equivalent topletely ruining her sister!

    Yu Sheng remained silent beside her. Lu Yanming''s solution was probably also what Li Zhen hoped for the most.

    In the "Masculine Banquet" group chat, someone was typing a live broadcast of the situation.

    Everyone in the group was thrilled!

    [So satisfying, serves that harmful person right.]

    [Boss Lu looks gentle and reasonable on the surface, but he can actually be so ruthless!]

    [Sisters, think about it. For a woman her age to be the deputy CEO of Honghai, could she be simple?]

    [I used to only love Boss Lu''s looks! Now I''m elevating it to stanning Boss Lu''s career!]

    Lu Yanming walked to the door and turned around to look at the head of public rtions, "If there''s nothing else, let''s wrap up for today."

    "Yes, Boss Lu!" The public rtions manager nodded obsequiously and said to everyone, "Meeting adjourned, you can leave now."

    Lu Yanming had already started walking away.

    Wang Peng hurried to catch up.

    Everyone else got up and trickled out.

    Li Zhen followed behind Ren Zongshun. Ren Zongshun thought carefully and felt something was off, "Li Zhen, what''s your private rtionship with Boss Yu and Boss Lu?"

    "No interactions at all." Li Zhen''s heart jumped at the question.

    "But..." Ren Zongshun frowned, not making sense of it, "Why do I feel like Boss Lu and Boss Yu both came today for you?"

    "Impossible, they were here forpany matters." Li Zhen''s eyes darted around evasively.

    She secretly took out her phone and messaged Lu Yanming, [Thanks, Boss Lu.]

    Lu Yanming: [Just a verbal thanks? Not sincere enough.]

    Li Zhen quickly turned off her phone.

    She understood Lu Yanming''s implication all too well. Her thoughts had already turned dirty in broad daylight!

    After work, Li Zhen got into Lu Yanming''s car and headed to the grand theater.

    Li Zhen sneakily took out a mysterious candy from her bag, "Boss Lu, a small token of thanks."

    The soft candyy quietly in Li Zhen''s palm.

    Her hand was soft, and the candy was soft as well.

    Lu Yanming reached out to take it. His long fingertips brushed over Li Zhen''s palm.

    A tingling sensation made Li Zhen''s heartbeat lose its rhythm.

    Lu Yanming put down the backseat table and ced the items from his pocket onto it, "I know you want to rush and don''t eat dinner again, so I prepared this in advance."

    The food on the table was diverse and plentiful.

    Li Zhen''s eyes instantly lit up, "Boss Lu, you''ve prepared too fully."

    In the backseat, their conversation was heard clearly by Fei Zhao.

    As he drove, he couldn''t help but roll his eyes.

    At first when he learned of Li Zhen''s existence, he was happy for Young Master.

    But now it seemed...

    The sour stink of love really made people ufortable.

    The three arrived at the grand theater and were led by the crew members waiting at the door, walking towards the backstage rehearsal room.

    There were other performances at the theater today.

    Meng Changsheng led everyone in the rehearsal room.

    As soon as Li Zhen walked in, the stuffy heat rushed up.

    Zhu Yuting saw Li Zhen arrive and quickly went over to fan her with a fan, "Sister Li Zhen, you''ll have to suffer a bit today. The AC in the rehearsal room broke down so it''s a little hot."

    "It''s fine, I can take heat." Li Zhen smiled and took out her script, starting to rehearse with Zhu Yuting.

    Shi Tianya carried over two stools and ced them by the rehearsal room door where there was venttion, putting them in front of Lu Yanming and Fei Zhao, "Two big brothers, please sit here!"

    What Zhu Yuting and Shi Tianya looked forward to everyday was Li Zhen and these two big brothersing over.

    Them being here meant the nationwide tour was still on!

    "Thank you." Lu Yanming expressed his thanks and sat down.

    Fei Zhao looked at the crude stool that dug into people, sighing to himself.

    With no air cirction, who could stay in this kind of ce?

    He looked again at Young Master, sitting there leisurely with theptop on his knees, seemingly unaware of the stuffy heat.

    Fei Zhao was miserably hot, "It''s so hot today, why don''t we wait outside?"

    "Is it hot?" Lu Yanming didn''t even lift his head.

    Fei Zhao: ......

    Love had made Young Master numb.

    But his own five senses were normal!

    Fei Zhao was unbearably hot so he simply bought a ticket to sit in the performance hall to cool down.

    Li Zhen felt she was in decent form today. Watching her juniors'' performance at school that morning had brought her state back to the past.

    When it was 11 pm and time to leave, Meng Changsheng was very gratified, "Li Zhen, you made great progress today! Much better than I expected."

    The huge stone in Li Zhen''s heart finallynded.

    She packed up, ready to leave, and saw Lu Yanming still waiting quietly by the door, looking at hisputer.

    His shirt back was half drenched with sweat from the stuffy rehearsal room, sticking tightly to his body, outlining the shapely contours of his muscr back.

    Li Zhen''s heart beat a little faster.

    She suddenly sensed something was off.

    Was Lu Yanming being too nice to her, picking her up and dropping her off at the theater everyday, apanying her the whole time until she finished and went home?

    What was the difference from a real married couple?

    No, many real married couples couldn''t even achieve this.

    Li Zhen was full of doubts.

    She left the theater with Lu Yanming. Fei Zhao had already calcted the timing and was waiting by the car.

    The two got in the car. Fei Zhao immediately turned on the AC.

    Having just been suffocated in the rehearsal room, Li Zhen''s clothes were still drenched in sweat and sticking to her body, making her very ufortable.

    "Assistant Fei, could you lower the AC a bit more?" Li Zhen waved her right hand, fluttering her clothes to let the cold air in the car flow up along the hem.

    As she fluttered, the neckline also oscited along.

    Lu Yanming''s gaze shifted to the side to look at her, and was met with shes of milky white.

    He retracted his vision, looking out the window instead, "Can''t lower the temperature anymore."

    Fei Zhao had just cranked it up high.

    Now it was turned down small immediately.

    Li Zhen''s brows furrowed slightly, smoothing her hand over his back. It was all sweat. She held it out in front of him, "You''re all sweat too, aren''t you hot?"

    The soft little hand brushed swiftly over Lu Yanming''s back, along with the moist liquid, and pressed against his muscles for a moment.

    "Suddenly too cold and you''ll catch a cold." Lu Yanming looked back at her.

    "Assistant Fei, lower it a bit more. I''d rather catch a cold..." Li Zhen was drenched in sweat, unable to stand the heat.

    Fei Zhao could only open it up again.

    Lu Yanming pulled out a tissue and wiped the sweat off her forehead, instructing, "No, turn it up."

    Fei Zhao closed it small again...

    Lu Yanming wiped down her face starting from Li Zhen''s forehead, her cheeks, behind her ears, meticulous and unhurried.

    Li Zhen was too hot to move. Her husbandly figure''s care was just to her liking. She leanedzily against the seat, letting Lu Yanming wipe her.

    When Lu Yanming wiped her corbone, the spring scene revealed through the neckline''s oscition fell directly into his eyes again.

    Jin City''s summer night was like fire.

    A light breeze could ignite a prairie fire.

    Even each breath was stuffily heated.

    Lu Yanming closed his eyes briefly, "It is a bit hot, turn the AC down."

    Fei Zhao: ......

    What were these two doing!

    Were their phones not fun enough, or the night view outside not pretty enough, that they had to torment him?

    Fei Zhao helplessly turned the temperature down.

    Li Zhen was very happy with this. "Boss Lu, you''re the best."

    "A ''thank you'' is just a verbal statement. Apliment is also just a verbal statement." Lu Yanming''s tissue had beenpletely soaked by Li Zhen''s sweat. He took another to continue wiping her, "Next time, can you show thanks in a more sincere way?"

    "For example?" Li Zhen looked askance at him.

    Lu Yanming pondered for two seconds before saying lightly, "For example, doing..."

 Chapter 87: Change Cars Tomorrow

    <h4>Chapter 87</h4>

    Lu Yanming did not have the chance to say the word "cooking".

    Li Zhen''s back stiffened, and she threw herself at him to cover his lips, "Mr. Lu! You can''t say that in the car! Assistant Fei is still here!"

    Fei Zhao, who was focused on driving, pricked up his ears.

    What inappropriate things were the two going to talk about again that he couldn''t hear?!

    He strongly requested ess to the VIP channel!

    Li Zhen was too nervous. Her pouncended her whole body right on top of Lu Yanming.

    Lu Yanming''s body tensed, feeling the softness that had just been vaguely discernible now lightly pressing against the rugged muscles of his chest.

    One of her hands was still covering his lips.

    Both their bodies were drenched in sticky sweat, like an adhesive medium binding their bodies tightly together.

    Lu Yanming''s breathing grew heavier by two degrees. He grasped her slender wrist and pulled her hand away, his hoarse voicemanding, "Fei Zhao, get out of the car."

    Li Zhen''s eyes flew wide open in shock, "You can''t be thinking of doing it in the car..."

    She didn''t get to finish her sentence.

    Lu Yanming took her hand and used it to cover her own lips, "Zhen Zhen, you can''t say such things in the car when Assistant Fei is still here."

    Fei Zhao''s expression was cid, but inwardly a shrieking chicken was screaming!

    Ahhhhhhhhhhh!

    He understood!

    The two of them...tsk tsk tsk tsk tsk!

    Fei Zhao did not stop right away, but drove on for a few hundred meters before turning into a deserted littlene.

    He swiftly exited the car and closed the door.

    Inside the car, Lu Yanming released Li Zhen''s hand and leisurely asked her, "What I wanted to say earlier was cooking. What were you thinking of? Could it be...doing?"

    "No, no." Li Zhen''s earlobes blushed red as she shook her head in panic.

    "I see, since Zhen Zhen wants it..." Lu Yanming nibbled her reddened earlobe and bit it.

    "That''s not what I meant, Mr. Lu."

    Li Zhen felt her whole body heat up despite the air conditioning still running in the car.

    She wanted to get off of Lu Yanming, the position of lying on top of him too embarrassing. She had just moved when her waist was grasped by a strong force, pressing her even tighter against him.

    Lu Yanming''s arousal was prominently nudging her lower abdomen, scorching her body into instantbustion.

    "We can''t do it here, Mr. Lu. Assistant Fei is still outside, and the car windows aren''t fully tinted." Li Zhen pleaded in a trembling voice.

    But it was clear that an aroused man could be very stubborn.

    "It''s fine, let him watch." Lu Yanming''s voice was low and deep, the maic grit arousing Li Zhen''s eardrums inch by inch.

    Li Zhen was so embarrassed by his words that her face flushed deep red. "Mr. Lu, you..."

    Her words were abruptly cut off.

    She lowered her head in surprise.

    Lu Yanming''s hand had reached under her shirt.

    Grasping the swaying snowy white that had been tempting him.

    He sighed, "Since you''re traveling, it should be transported."

    Li Zhen didn''t understand.

    Lu Yanming rubbed it and added, "Because it''s a lethal weapon."

    These explicit words made Li Zhen gasp.

    To think the vice president of the corporation, usually as aloof as an orchid on a cliff, would actually say such things to her.

    But before Li Zhen could dwell on her surprise for long, her thoughts had already been thrown into chaos.

    ...

    Fei Zhao squatted at the roadside, watched a movie, and had just finished when the car window nearby rolled down.

    He knew it was the young master finished with his business, and hurriedly got in the car.

    Li Zhen was curled up in the corner, Lu Yanming''s suit jacket covering her. Her face still held a trace of flush, and she silently cursed Lu Yanming eight hundred times in her heart.

    The air from outside flowed in, dispersing some of the sticky atmosphere in the car.

    When they arrived at the apartment building, Li Zhen got out of the car, her legs a little soft and wobbly as soon as she alighted.

    The next second, she was swept up into Lu Yanming''s arms.

    Lu Yanming looked down at the limp woman in his arms, unable to hold back a chuckle. "My bad, it took longer than five seconds today."

    Li Zhen wanted to retort, but seeing Fei Zhao''s "Wow I feel like I heard some paid content" gossiping expression, she buried her head in Lu Yanming''s chest and yed dead.

    Obliterate me.

    Why did he have to get excited midway?!

    This was so embarrassing!

    Hearing a snippet of paid content, happy Fei Zhao prepared to get in the car.

    But Lu Yanming calmly spoke, "Get a different car tomorrow."

    Fei Zhao was startled. "Change to what car?"

    The young master usually didn''t have any car preferences, leaving it to Fei Zhao to decide.

    This Mercedes was simply a car Fei Zhao randomly chose from the dealership on his first day back in the country.

    Lu Yanming had already turned away, carrying Li Zhen, leaving only one line: "One with more space inside the car."

    Fei Zhao: ......

    Thanks, I''m stuffed full of dog food tonight.

    Lu Yanming carried Li Zhen upstairs to bathe her.

    She didn''t speak the entire time.

    Carrying her to bed, Lu Yanming lowered his head, his lips barely brushing against hers. "Not happy again?"

    The use of "again" was meaningful.

    Li Zhen suddenly realized that it seemed like every time he was a little more forceful in taking her, she would give him the cold shoulder.

    Yet he never got angry.

    Moreover, in just over a month, it would be theplete opposite.

    She would be the one begging him.

    Her tone softened, "No, not really..."

    "Then howe you''re not talking? Did little Lu not serve you well?" Lu Yanming humbly asked, his fingertips gliding along her waist.

    It was as if she dared to say "yes" and he would restart his conquest to prove himself again.

    The searing fingertips provoked Li Zhen''s heart to tremble, and she hurriedly told the truth, "No, it''s just...it hurts a bit?"

    Lu Yanming instantly grasped her implication and chuckled, "Didn''t you say before that my toothpick wasn''t enough to plug your teeth? Now you''reining it''s too big?"

    Li Zhen hid her face, feeling she no longer had any face left.

    Why was his memory so good?

    He could actually still remember something she said so long ago?

    And Lu Yanming seemed unwilling to let it go, deeply fixated on that sentence. "What about now, Zhen Zhen? Is it enough to plug your teeth?"

    Li Zhen wanted to find a hole in the ground listening to his words.

    She raised her head and red at him indignantly, "Mr. Lu, if you keep saying things like this, I''ll..."

    She didn''t get to finish again, silenced by Lu Yanming''s kiss.

    Lu Yanming really couldn''t stand her appearance - ears and cheeks flushed red, as if issuing the most tempting invitation.

    He kissed her, his entire body pressed against her, nudging against her.

    Li Zhen thought it best if she didn''t speak anymore tonight, she hadn''t been able toplete a single sentence!

    The kiss muddled her mind, her body going limp in his embrace again as she whimpered softly.

    Crying fragmented tears.

    "Zhen Zhen, don''t cry, the more you cry the more I..." Lu Yanming slowly drawled.

    Li Zhen was frightened by his words, her crying stopping abruptly.

    But it had just stopped when she uncontrobly cried out again under his pampering.

    The long night stretched on endlessly.

    Yet Lu Yanming seemed to have inexhaustible vigor.

    Li Zhenmented that she might have chosen the wrong man.

    She might copse herself before even getting pregnant.

 Chapter 88: See an Acquaintance

    <h4>Chapter 88</h4>

    The next day was Saturday. Li Zhen rarely wanted to tidy up the house.

    But looking at every clean corner of the house, she suddenly realized that she hadn''t done any housework for a long time.

    She was at a sudden loss as to where to start.

    "What are you doing standing in the living room? Contemting life?" Lu Yanming''s low voice sounded from behind Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen looked back, extremely puzzled, "Mr. Lu, how do you find so much time every day to tidy up the house?"

    "If you don''t even have time for your family, what''s the point of that time?" Lu Yanming walked over andzily sat down on the sofa.

    "Mr. Lu, start a men''s virtues ss so other husbands can kneel down and listen!" Li Zhen couldn''t help butugh at him.

    Just as her words fell, the doorbell rang.

    Li Zhen opened the door.

    Fei Zhao appeared at the door, "Miss Li."

    "Assistant Fei,e in." Li Zhen stepped aside.

    Fei Zhao didn''t move, "No need, I just wanted to ask, young master, am I going alone to choose the car?"

    Fei Zhao had been with the Lu family since he was a child, and this was the first time he had heard the young master make any demands about a car.

    To be cautious, Fei Zhao came to ask again.

    Lu Yanming nced over calmly, "Have Li Zhen go with you."

    "I won''t go. You''re buying a car, why would I need to go?" Li Zhen ufortably coughed.

    The young master was bing more and more fluent in calling her Li Zhen.

    "Li Zhen, yesterday in the car it was all wet because of you..." Lu Yanming spoke lightly but with someint.

    Li Zhen''s blush rapidly crept up. "But..."

    "Miss Li, no more buts, let''s go, it won''t take too much time." Fei Zhao dragged Li Zhen and wanted to go out the door.

    "Wait, I haven''t changed my shoes yet."

    -

    Li Zhen changed her shoes and went with Fei Zhao to arge 4S dealership.

    Fei Zhao pointed to a row of Rolls Royces, "Miss Li, just pick one you like."

    Fei Zhao didn''t like Rolls Royces.

    The driving experience couldn''tpare to the Mercedes-Benz he was driving now. Driving it out would also attract too much attention, like some country tycoon.

    But it met the young master''s requirements.

    The back seat space wasrge.

    "Then the pink one." Li Zhen said indifferently.

    "No, Miss Li, you...want the young master to drive a pink car?" Fei Zhao was shocked.

    "Assistant Fei, have you finally realized this car isn''t for me to drive, so why did you insist on bringing me along?"

    Fei Zhao understood.

    This was Li Zhen unhappy that he had dragged her out just now.

    She was waiting here for him!

    "Miss Li, the young master was thinking that you would asionally be sitting in it recently, and also hoped that changing to a car you liked."

    Not far away, a group of young men had just finished test driving some cars.

    The young people were dressed shily, giggling and horseying.

    But one of them was noticeably calmer.

    He stood among the crowd, and it was obvious everyone centered around him.

    "Second young master Yu, what are you looking at?" someone asked,ing over.

    Yu Yang waved his hand, "I saw someone I know, I''ll go over for a bit, don''t follow me."

    Yu Yang looked over doubtfully from afar.

    But when he walked closer, he realized it really was Li Zhen.

    "Sister-inw?"

    Li Zhen looked back, "Yu Yang?"

    "Sister-inw, what are you doing here..." Yu Yang looked up and down at Fei Zhao beside Li Zhen.

    Why would brother''s woman be looking at cars with another man?

    The two shouldn''t have that kind of rtionship, right?

    If it was money, no one in Jincheng couldpare to his brother. And looks, this man was not bad either, but still far from his brother.

    "Oh, I''m apanying a friend to look at cars." Li Zhen answered candidly.

    Yu Yang thought about how Li Zhen had said she liked the pink car just now.

    No matter who the man with sister-inw was, Yu Yang still subconsciously wanted to earn face for his brother in front of this man.

    He nced at the car and said, "Sister-inw, didn''t you just look at this car? I''ll buy one for you."

    Fei Zhao was furious!

    How dare another man fawn over the young master''s woman?

    "Miss Li, let''s just buy this pink one. Let''s go, we''ll swipe the card." Fei Zhao said boldly.

    Let''s just buy this one? Hearing the tone of the man in front of him, Yu Yang felt something was wrong.

    But he didn''t dare to talk nonsense or question in front of sister-inw either.

    Otherwise if his brother found out, he would be disciplined.

    Li Zhen was getting a headache from the two men''s arguing. "Assistant Fei, just the ck one. Go handle the paperwork."

    After saying this, Li Zhen brought Yu Yang outside the exhibition hall.

    With Fei Zhao gone, Li Zhen spoke much more directly. "Yu Yang, your brother and I are already divorced."

    Yu Yang was stunned for a moment.

    But he calmed down after just one second.

    They must have had a fight.

    Divorce, impossible.

    Last night his brother had still been looking for him, saying he would persuade their mother to ept Li Zhen tonight at the banquet.

    Yu Yang went along with Li Zhen''s words, "Then my brother must have done something wrong. Sister-inw getting a divorce is right, to teach my brother a lesson."

    Yu Yang was the pampered second young master of the Yu family. Arrogant and unruly to outsiders.

    But ever since the first time he met Li Zhen,

    Yu Yang had always been very respectful to her.

    Li Zhen didn''t want to burden this little brother with the messy affairs between her and Yu Sheng, so she casually said, "Your brother and I arepletely over. Don''t worry about this matter, go have fun with your friends. You''re still busy tonight."

    Yu Yang listened very much to Li Zhen and nodded, "Alright, sister-inw."

    Seeing Yu Yang walk away, Li Zhen went to find Fei Zhao.

    Fei Zhao was swiping a card to handle the vehicle pickup formalities, sitting in the VIP reception room signing the contract.

    She sat at another table.

    Looking at Fei Zhao, Li Zhen still felt something strange about what had just happened.

    Suddenly, she reacted sharply.

    Sister-inw!

    Someone had called her sister-inw, so why wasn''t Fei Zhao surprised at all!

    Fei Zhao was usually very attentive, busy signing, but noticed Li Zhen''s expression suddenly change. "Miss Li? What''s wrong?"

    Don''t tell me she regretted not wanting the ck one, but the pink one instead?

    "You..." Li Zhen''s heart beat a little faster, afraid the facts were really as she imagined. "Just now when you heard how he addressed me, why weren''t you surprised?"

    Fei Zhao''s writing hand paused.

    Damn.

    Just now he had been so angry by Yu Yang''s tone that he had forgotten to conceal it.

    Should he say not only did he know why that person called her sister-inw, but also knew the person was the second young master Yu, the younger brother of her ex-husband.

    Should he tell her that he perhaps knew even more about the people and matters around her than she did?

    Fei Zhao pondered for a long while, smiled, and said, "Miss Li, young people love to joke around and call each other all sorts of things. What''s so strange about someone calling you sister-inw? It''s just as normal as someone calling you mom."

    "Assistant Fei, I''m not stupid. If you and Mr. Lu want to fool me together, I can pretend not to know. But I won''t continue staying at Hua Yang Famous Residences." Li Zhen looked at Fei Zhao with tranquil eyes.

    Only now did Fei Zhao realize that when Li Zhen was serious, she would actually emit an oppressive aura, calm yet intelligent, forcing people step by step into retreat.

 Chapter 89: The Meaning of Madame

    <h4>Chapter 89</h4>

    Li Zhen hesitated and slowly spoke, "Yes, young master also knows."

    He knew that there were things the young master definitely knew that she couldn''t deny.

    Further denial would likely just make her angrier.

    "Assistant Fei, Yu Yang called me sister-inw and you weren''t surprised at all. This shows you already knew that I was married to Yu Sheng before, and you also know Yu Yang. You didn''t just see my divorce certificate, it''s that simple." Li Zhen stood up, her face expressionless, "You guys are investigating me."

    Li Zhen picked up her bag, "What you investigated about me shouldn''t be just this one thing. I''mpletely transparent in front of you all?"

    "You know I''m an illegitimate daughter, you know I didn''t have a mother since I was little, so that''s why Chairman Lu cared for me so much?"

    "Not only did you just investigate me simply, you must also keep me under surveince in secret daily right?"

    "After all you are the incredibly capable Assistant Fei!"

    Li Zhen''s heart pounded violently.

    Everyone has their own boundaries, but Lu Yanming secretly pierced her boundaries.

    She had thought Lu Yanming was just a simple tool husband. They helped each other for a while, then parted ways cleanly and neatly.

    But Lu Yanming actually investigated her...

    After speaking, she turned and left.

    Leaving Fei Zhao standing there in a daze.

    It wasn''t until two minutester that Fei Zhao regained his senses.

    It''s over!

    He wouldn''t live for long!

    Fei Zhao took out his phone, opened Lu Yanming''s number, but hesitated to press dial.

    In the end, with the mentality of going to his death, he made the call.

    "Young master..."

    "Miss Li knows..."

    Li Zhen walked to the 4S store entrance.

    She looked up at the zing noon sun high in the sky.

    She had foolishly been afraid that Lu Yanming would know she was once married to Yu Sheng, and use it against her.

    Would someone like him care about a small handle like that?

    If she ever had huge conflicts with him one day, with a wave of his hand he could deal with her.

    She had provoked the wrong person.

    She would have to find someone else for her pregnancy n.

    A ring came from her phone.

    It was a message from Yu Sheng asking her to go to Jinlu Garden to change into formal dress and put on makeup in the afternoon.

    Li Zhen collected her emotions and went to Jinlu Garden.

    She had to figure out a way for the pregnancy, and also needed Yu Sheng to continue hiding their divorce from Li Yinnan and Li Yanran.

    Otherwise if the mother and daughter found out she was trying to get pregnant through a loophole, they would definitely use every means to stop her, hard to guard against.

    When Li Zhen arrived at Jinlu Garden, the living room of the vi was filled with people.

    There were several stylists, two or three makeup artists, and clothing experts who had wheeled in several racks of formalwear.

    Yu Yang was trying on formalwear. Seeing Li Zhene in, he smiled and called out, "Sister-inw."

    Li Zhen was ufortable being called this since she didn''t expect Yu Yang would be there too. She used her usual tactic, "Yu Yang, call me by my name, otherwise I won''t respond."

    As soon as Yu Yang heard this, his expression froze for a moment.

    Yu Sheng seemed to not have heard Li Zhen''s words. He sat expressionless on the sofa, ncing coldly at her, "Eat lunch first, then try on clothes."

    At the dining table.

    Yu Yang sat next to Yu Sheng.

    Li Zhen sat across from Yu Yang.

    Seeing Li Zhene, Aunt Wu was extremely happy. Every dish she brought out, she urged Li Zhen to eat more, before returning to the kitchen again.

    But Li Zhen didn''t have much appetite.

    Seeing Li Zhen''sckluster attitude towards the meal, Yu Yang added soup to her bowl, "Sis, drink the soup."

    Li Zhen looked up, quite satisfied that he had changed his form of address so readily, "Thanks, Yu Yang."

    "Sis, have you lost weight recently?" Yu Yang asked while also adding soup to Yu Sheng''s bowl.

    "I don''t think so, I didn''t notice myself." Li Zhen said, then touched her face, suddenly feeling like she had lost a little weight.

    It was normal too.

    She had been staying upte recently for the y rehearsals, weakening her body somewhat.

    Yu Sheng looked at Li Zhen expressionlessly for a moment, then withdrew his gaze, "If you lost weight you need to eat and nourish more."

    Yu Yang nced at his brother strangely.

    Normally after he said something like this, he would definitely instruct Aunt Wu to prepare something, or add food to Li Zhen''s bowl himself.

    Today after speaking, he actually had no reaction at all.

    Yu Yang was puzzled, when he suddenly received a look from Yu Sheng.

    He immediately understood, adding food to Li Zhen''s bowl, "Sis, eat more."

    Throughout the meal, Li Zhen was constantly served food by Yu Yang.

    After the meal, she felt like she had gained three pounds.

    In the afternoon, as Li Zhen was getting her hair and makeup done, Yu Sheng and Yu Yang stayed nearby the whole time.

    Yu Sheng handled work emails and wrote proposals.

    Yu Yang wore earphones and yed games.

    Suddenly, Yu Sheng''s phone rang.

    He answered it, his tone slightly more deferential than usual, "Uncle...okay, I''lle over first to discuss with you in detail."

    After Yu Sheng hung up the call, Yu Yang was very happy, "Bro, uncle is here?"

    "Mm."

    "I want to go see uncle too, haven''t seen him in so many years."

    "I have some matters to discuss with uncle first. You stay here, be on time to take Li Zhen to the Yu house at six tonight." Yu Sheng closed hisptop, got up and walked out.

    "Okay, brother." Although disappointed, Yu Yang immediately agreed.

    When Yu Sheng got to the door, about to leave, he suddenly turned back again to look.

    Li Zhen had already changed into new clothes, and was putting on makeup.

    Her back was slender, sitting up perfectly straight.

    Just like before, every time at the library she would arrive early to save him a seat.

    When he got there, she would always be sitting quietly, back upright, gently turning pages in the tranquil library.

    Yu Sheng sometimes thought, if Li Zhen hadn''t jumped to save someone that day, and another man hadn''t saved her, mistaken her for someone else, and hadn''t ardently pursued him.

    Then he would have certainly noticed Li Zhen too.

    Things would have gone differently, he would have been the one to pursue her, without the other man between them.

    Li Zhen sensed a gaze watching her.

    She turned her head to see Yu Sheng standing in the doorway, but he was lowering his head to change his shoes.

    Yu Sheng went out the door.

    At five forty in the evening.

    Yu Yang brought Li Zhen to the gates of the Yu house estate.

    The tall European wrought iron gates were wide open, the upright gates symbolizing power and nobility.

    Luxury cars continuously streamed in, all the most prestigious families of Jin City had arrived.

    Servants stood respectfully on both sides, bowing and greeting the familiar second young master''s car.

    The vehicle moved slowly forward.

    On both sides of the road were expansivewns andkes, tallndscape sculptures, various precious nts, as well as the stables and golf course.

    This was Li Zhen''s first time at the Yu house.

    She only found out today that in the already scarcend of Jin City, there was actually still arge estate upied by a single family.

    The car drove forward for a few minutes before stopping at the parking lot.

    Not far away, several independent European-style buildings could already be faintly seen. Everywhere was exquisite carvings and intricate decorative details, from a distance the owner''s wealth and taste was evident.

    Two estate shuttle vehicles were parked next to Yu Yang''s car.

    The servant from the first shuttle got out of the car, respectfully saying, "Second young master."

    "Has my brothere back yet?" Yu Yang asked.

    "Eldest young master is back, returned with uncle. They just got back not long ago."

    "Okay." Yu Yang tookrge strides onto the shuttle, calling to Li Zhen, "Sis, get on the car, we''re going to the reception hall now."

    Li Zhen was just about to get on the shuttle.

    But the servant raised his hand to block her path, head still lowered respectfully, "You are Miss Li right? Please take the other car."

    Li Zhen halted.

    "Whose idea is this?" Yu Yang''s brows furrowed as he asked coldly.

    "Replying to second young master, it was madam''s idea."

 Chapter 90: I donâ€™t like the occasion.

    <h4>Chapter 90</h4>

    Yu Yang''s brow was furrowed with anger that he could not restrain. It was obvious he was furious.

    He got out of the car, wanting to get into the other car.

    But the servant still kept his head low, gritting his teeth as he said, "Second Young Master, Madam said you still have to go to the reception hall to receive guests."

    Yu Yang said coldly, "What is my mother thinking? It''s my sister-inw''s first day here..."

    "Yu Yang," Li Zhen called to him softly, her brows arched lightly as she smiled, "I don''t really like these kinds of asions anyway."

    If it was before the divorce from Yu Sheng, being targeted like this might have upset her, but today she was just going through the motions.

    She hoped to be a marginal figure.

    The servant exined, "Second Young Master, Madam just wants Miss Li to sit alone and have tea."

    Yu Yang knew his mother''s methods were always forceful. He decided that trying to resist for Li Zhen''s sake would be futile, since his brother and uncle had evidently note to an agreement yet with his mother. She did not want Li Zhen to appear in the reception hall.

    He could only get back into the sightseeing car headed for the reception hall. "Sister, call me right away if anything happens," he said.

    "Alright, you go on." Li Zhen nodded.

    Yu Yang''s sightseeing car left. When it was some distance away he still looked back worriedly.

    The servant bowed and made a "please" gesture. "Miss Li..."

    Li Zhen was led to a tea room in a remote small building.

    A young woman in a cheongsam was making tea at the tea table.

    Beside her another woman yed the guzheng.

    Seeing Li Zhene in, the young tea master quickly stood up and bowed in greeting. "Miss Li, please have a seat."

    It looked like this was prepared specially for her, awaiting her arrival.

    "Thank you." Li Zhen sat cross-legged on the cushion, inhaling the tea aroma and listening to the distant, melodious ancient tune. She felt extremelyfortable.

    Just now Yu Yang hadn''t wanted her toe here.

    But this was wonderful.

    Compared to socializing with guests, this was practically heaven.

    In the center of the Yu ancestral hall stood a huge incense burner.

    In front of the offering table were rows of wooden spirit tablets.

    Beneath each tablet flickered silent candle mes, swaying gently.

    Yu Sheng¡¯s mother, dressed somberly and nobly, stood before several dozen of the tablets, gazing down at her son who knelt before her. ¡°Your uncle once swore never to step foot in the Yu house again, yet today he came for your sake. Did you and your unclee to break the rules of the Yu family?¡±

    Lv Linwan frowned deeply, his voice solemn. ¡°Sister, haven¡¯t you upheld the Yu family rules for one generation? Is that still not enough? Must you ruin Sheng¡¯s whole life for these absurd rules?¡±

    ¡°As Yu family members, we must of course uphold the Yu family rules,¡± Madam Yu said, casting her eyes over the tablets. She gave a bitterugh. ¡°Yu Sheng, I¡¯ve recited the hundred House Rules of the Yu family to you since you were small. Tell me now, of the two women the Yu heir must not marry, what are they?¡±

    Yu Sheng knelt in the center, back ramrod straight. Shadows cast by the candlelight fell across his resolute face. ¡°Do not marry one of impure birth, do not marry an actress.¡±

    ¡°Good, since you remember, why must you take the illegitimate daughter of the Li acting family?¡±

    Yu Sheng raised his head. ¡°She did not sellughter in public or join show business. She only works as a hand model now.¡±

    ¡°What about her identity as an illegitimate daughter? Can that be changed?¡± Madam Yu felt angry and her emotions teetered at the brink of copse.

    Her husband had passed away fifteen years ago.

    He had left her with only a pair of young children that she had struggled to raise. Of the two, Yu Yang was addicted to pleasure and did not manage family affairs.

    Only Yu Sheng barely held up the Yu family, yet for the sake of a woman...

    Lv Linwan softened his tone, frowning. ¡°Sister, your health is poor, don''t get agitated.¡±

    Madam Yu turned away, facing the incense burner. She did not want her son and younger brother to see her grieved expression. ¡°The entire Yu family now relies on the hard work of your uncles. As the Yu heir, you do not bear your own burdens or fulfill your responsibilities!¡±

    ¡°Mother...¡±

    Yu Sheng ced both hands on the floor and slowly lowered his forehead to the ground with a loud ¡°thud¡±.

    This shocked Madam Yu.

    But there was another muffled ¡°thud¡±!

    Lv Linwan panicked and tried to stop Yu Sheng.

    But Yu Sheng raised his head at him and shook it.

    Another ¡°thud¡±.

    Today, Yu Sheng had bet everything on his uncle.

    If his uncle could not persuade her, then the matter was already settled.

    He wanted Li Zhen to stand proudly by his side, unless he was no longer of the Yu family.

    ¡°Mother, she cannot enter the Yu family, so I can only apany her outside the Yu family. This first bow is to revere our ancestors and express my regret at betraying the Yu blood in me.¡±

    ¡°The second is to my father, for my unfilialness.¡±

    ¡°The third is to you, for raising me these twenty-six years.¡±

    Madam Yu turned around, looking at him incredulously. ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    Yu Sheng kowtowed again. But this time he remained with his forehead to the ground, stating word for word:

    ¡°I wish to...leave the Yu family. Withdraw from the n registry.¡±

    As the six words came out, Madam Yu turned pale. She swayed unsteadily and Lv Linwan quickly supported her.

    Lv Linwan berated Yu Sheng coldly. ¡°Don¡¯t be rash! How can you speak nonsense? The n registry is not for you to withdraw from on a whim!¡±

    Though he spoke this way, Lv Linwan knew his nephew had always been steady.

    Since he had said it, he must have nned it long ago.

    ¡°Mother,¡± Yu Sheng raised his head, his gaze tranquil without any ripples, ¡°Back then, grandfather held a high position in the capital and was unwilling to let you marry into the Yu family, merchants for a hundred years. You overcame countless difficulties to marry here alone to Jin City.¡±

    ¡°You upheld the Yu family, upheld its rules. Remained unmarried for fifteen years after Father passed, keeping to him your whole life.¡±

    ¡°Others all said you were not worth it. Mother, do you feel it was worth it?¡±

    Madam Yu lost all strength. Tears blurred her eyes.

    She broke free of Lv Linwan¡¯s hand and turned to face the offering table. Her gaze fell upon a spirit tablet in the corner.

    On it were three words: Yu Zhenting.

    Seeing that name, Lv Linwan¡¯s heart seized with anger.

    His willful younger sister since childhood had be an upholder of conventions after marrying that man.

    Yet the man was already gone.

    Only her delusions in her heart sustained her frail life now.

    Madam Yu took down the tablet and held it to herself. ¡°Zhenting, your son has grown up, as stubborn as you. He has a will of his own now.¡±

    A teardrop fell onto the tablet with a ¡°drip¡±.

    Madam Yu¡¯s eyes were nk. She only asked softly, ¡°Leaving the n registry, do you still remember what that entails?¡±

    Yu Sheng: ¡°One hundredshes, all assets gained from the Yu family returned.¡±

    Madam Yu looked to the right side of the ancestral hall, where a coiled whip hung from a stand.

    Back then, when Yu Zhenting married her, the Lv family had exerted tremendous pressure on the Yu family. After all, how could merchants rival officials?

    Her husband had also knelt in this hall and was coerced by the Yu family head with n rules to divorce her.

    Yu Zhenting had endured a hundredshes.

    She had knelt by and cried herself unconscious.

    Let it go, let it go.

    This child had her blood, Zhenting''s blood. They were both irrational. What right did she have to me her son?

    It had been three years.

    She should have known her son would not turn back.

    Madam Yu took down the whip and handed it to Lv Linwan. ¡°I don¡¯t want anyone else to hit him. You do it.¡±

    Lv Linwan took it, his hand shaking slightly. ¡°Alright, he¡¯s half a Lv family member. I¡¯ll do it.¡±

    Lv Linwan now understood his sister could not be persuaded.

    ¡°Steward,¡± Madam Yu called weakly.

    The doors of the ancestral hall were pushed open.

    The light of the setting sun forced its way inside, blending with the candlelight.

    Yu Sheng was bathed entirely in golden rays.

    The steward came in with a bow. ¡°Madam.¡±

    Madam Yu waved her hand limply. ¡°Go bring Miss Li here.¡±

    ¡°No, I don¡¯t want her to see this,¡± Yu Sheng said, raising his head.

    ¡°You¡¯re making such a great sacrifice for her. You won¡¯t let her watch?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want her to see.¡±

    Yu Sheng looked back toward the tea room.

    His mother did not want her to appear at the Yu family banquet, so she had arranged for her to be there.

    Yu Sheng could imagine she would be delighted not to have to socialize, leisurely enjoying herself there with tea.

    Yu Sheng drew his gaze back, his tone gentle. ¡°She¡¯s actually quite timid.¡±

    ¡°Seeing blood frightens her.¡±

 Chapter 91: 100 House Rules

    <h4>Chapter 91</h4>

    Madam Yu felt a surge of bitterness and waved her hand.

    The steward took a nce at the eldest young master kneeling on the ground, exited the ancestral hall, and closed the door with mncholy.

    The Yu family had stood for a hundred years.

    Every generation was infatuated.

    The family rules became stricter with each passing generation.

    The Yu family now had a hundred family rules, yet they still raised a eldest young master who was willing to remove himself from the family tree for a woman.

    It was doomed, destined cmity.

    The Yu family were all doomed to have ill-fated romances, and this eldest young master would surely not have a good ending.

    "p!" A whipshed flesh and blood sounded from inside the ancestral hall.

    Madam Yu stood with her back to the two men.

    She had heard the whip crack against her husband''s body hundreds of times, so she knew the force Yu Sheng was using.

    "Onesh to draw blood, anything less than a hundred bloody welts is not considered discipline."

    When Lv Linwan heard this, his hand shook even more.

    He had seen much blood before.

    But he could not stand to see his nephew''s blood.

    This was of the Lv family, the Lv family''s own flesh and blood.

    Lv Linwan could not bear to whip him. His arm halted midair.

    "Please uncle, grant me this wish," Yu Sheng kowtowed to Lv Linwan.

    Lv Linwan closed his eyes, raised the whip high, and brought it down heavily.

    "p!" The whip tore open flesh.

    "p!" Blood sprayed out.

    The bloody welts were shocking to behold.

    Madam Yu put away the memorial tablets and wiped them over and over.

    Amidst the sounds of the whip, she silently pushed open the vermilion doors and walked out of the ancestral hall.

    Behind her, Yu Sheng knelt upright, eyes lowered, gritting his teeth as the color slowly drained from his face.

    "Hurry, faster!"

    "Did you get the IV equipment over there?"

    "It''s in the room!"

    Li Zhen groggily opened her eyes.

    She had fallen asleep?

    What woke her was themotion in the distance.

    The sky waspletely dark now. Looking outside, she saw a group of doctors in white coats hurrying by beneath the streetlights.

    "What''s going on outside?" Li Zhen asked the tea master curiously.

    The tea master replied softly, "Miss Li, we''re not sure either."

    He then gestured at the table of food and said, "Seeing you were asleep, Miss Li, we didn''t want to disturb you. This is the third serving of fresh dishes brought in."

    Li Zhen felt her stomach. She was indeed hungry.

    After eating and drinking two cups of tea, it was 10pm. She saw guests gradually leaving the main street.

    The banquet must have ended.

    Heavy footsteps sounded outside the tea room.

    Li Zhen thought it was Yu Sheng.

    But when she turned, it was Yu Yang.

    Yu Yang had a strange look on his face, with bloodshot eyes, as if all his strength had been drained away.

    In a low voice he called, "Sis."

    "Are you...tired out?" Li Zhen got up and walked over to him.

    She even felt he was swaying as if he would copse any moment.

    Thinking of how his brother''s entire body was a mess of wounds just now, the blood staining the floor a dark red, Yu Yang''s throat constricted. He had to use all his strength to hold back his tears in front of Li Zhen.

    His brother had instructed, "Don''t tell her, take her home safely."

    Yu Yang had always felt his brother was ruthless to others, only today realizing he was even more ruthless to himself.

    Yu Yang turned to walk outside. "Sis, let''s go."

    Li Zhen felt Yu Yang was acting strange but didn''t ask further.

    After just two steps, their way was blocked by the steward. "Miss Li, the Mistress wishes to speak with you for a moment."

    Yu Yang stood in front of Li Zhen. "Tell my mother that''s enough. My brother is already..."

    He clenched his fists, forcefully swallowing his words.

    "She''s not going," was all Yu Yang said coldly.

    The steward gestured behind him. Over a dozen trained men stepped forward.

    Li Zhen frowned. What was going on here?

    It felt like she had walked into a den of gangsters.

    "You can take her away, but only if you step over my dead body." Yu Yang didn''t budge an inch.

    His brother had tasked him with taking Li Zhen home safely.

    His brother was still lying in bed.

    He couldn''t let his brother worry.

    "Second young master, the Mistress just wants to chat with Miss Li for a bit," the steward advised with a sigh.

    "Let me pass."

    The weak words sounded from behind everyone.

    All turned around.

    Seeing Yu Sheng, besides Li Zhen, everyone was shocked with eyes wide open.

    How could the eldest young master possibly be out of bed!

    Yu Sheng had changed into a fresh set of clothes, pristine from head to toe, a far cry from the bloody mess he was just now.

    The steward was frozen in ce.

    Yu Yang''s heart wrenched so much he couldn''t get out a word. He had seen with his own eyes how many bandages and ointments were wrapped around his brother''s body.

    The person who could hardly speak just now had gotten out of bed, so that Li Zhen wouldn''t face trouble.

    Obviously he had tidied himself up.

    Was it so Li Zhen wouldn''t be frightened seeing him?

    Yu Yang thought his brother must have lost his mind, bewitched by Li Zhen, disregarding himself entirely for her sake, willing to abandon the prestigious Yu family.

    "Let me pass," Yu Sheng repeated.

    Before the steward could react, the dozens of men blocking Li Zhen''s way had already stepped aside.

    Yu Sheng went up to Li Zhen and nced at her. His face was bloodless, his lips pale as paper. "Let''s go."

    Walking to the parking lot, Yu Sheng pulled the car door but didn''t open it. He grasped the handle tightly butcked strength.

    Only then did Li Zhen realize Yu Sheng''s strength seemed frighteningly feeble, his whole body radiating fragility.

    Yu Sheng pulled the door a second time and was about to get into the driver''s seat when Yu Yang held his arm.

    Lowering his voice fearing his sobs woulde out, Yu Yang said, "Bro, let me drive."

    Yu Sheng didn''t refuse and got into the backseat.

    "Take her to Sunshine Garden first," Yu Sheng said with eyes closed, leaning against the seatback.

    "I don''t live there anymore," Li Zhen gave Yu Yang the address of Qiao Yi''s home.

    She wouldn''t be staying at Prestigious Mansions anymore.

    Yu Sheng opened his eyes and nced at her, wanting to ask why she had moved.

    But he felt too weary and closed his eyes again.

    When they arrived, Li Zhen got out of the car.

    Yu Yang started the engine.

    Yu Sheng lifted his eyes to look out the window. "Wait..."

    He wanted to see her again.

    Bathed in the dim yellow light, Li Zhen''s figure was drawn slender and graceful.

    With one hand clutching her formal gown, she inelegantly hiked it up as she slowly walked forward.

    Her gait was a bitical.

    The normally somber Yu Sheng couldn''t help lightly pulling up the corners of his lips.

    But even that slight motion felt taxing.

    Seeing Li Zhen leave, Yu Yang looked back at Yu Sheng''s condition and finally couldn''t hold back, yelling out, "Bro, was she worth it?"

    After saying this, Yu Yang mmed the car door and crouched down covering his face, breaking into great heaving sobs.

    "How could she not be worth it?" Yu Sheng''s voice was very faint, as if speaking only to himself.

    In the past, he had always avoided showing his closeness with Li Zhen in front of others.

    It wasn''t that he feared Macau''s institutions. He just didn''t want to provoke his mother too overtly, to leave room for Li Zhen to still enter the Yu family.

    But now there was no more hope of Li Zhen entering the Yu family. All that remained was for his uncles to pick a time to remove him from the family registry.

    All was settled.

    He no longer had anything to hide or conceal.

    He could openly and uprightly let everyone know Li Zhen belonged to him.

 Chapter 92: Shut it in the Backyard

    <h4>Chapter 92</h4>

    Yu Yang took a long time to calm down from the emotional turmoil.

    But Yu Sheng was still in the car, and still injured.

    Yu Yang wiped his face with his hand, got in the car, and drove towards Jinluyuanmunity.

    Yu Sheng closed his eyes, "Yu Yang, from now on, Yu Group will rely on you, keep it together."

    "Brother, you know I can''t......" Yu Yang tightened his grip on the steering wheel, feeling ashamed of his ipetence for the first time.

    He also hoped his brother could feel at ease without worrying about Yu Group.

    But since childhood, he had been used to being under the wings of Yu Sheng and his mother, and had never thought about having to stand alone one day.

    "Whether you can or not, you have to." Yu Sheng spoke very softly, even the slightest vibration in his chest would make him feel exhausted, "But there is no hurry, uncles can still help for a few years. I will transfer 2 billion to your ount tomorrow, start a smallpany to get some hands-on experience. If you don''t understand anything midway, ask me."

    Yu Sheng had done a lot of venture capital since college, earning quite a lot.

    After returning what he got from the Yu family, he could have over 30 billion left.

    The annual dividend from venture capital could still get him a few billion.

    Giving Yu Yang 2 billion for hands-on experience, profit or loss didn''t matter.

    "Okay, brother, I... I will try my best to learn." Yu Yang swallowed his words of refusal.

    Qiaoyi Building.

    After Yu Sheng''s car left, Fei Zhao''s voice sounded from the nearby corner.

    "Young Master, I found it. It was Yu Sheng who said he wanted to withdraw from the Yu family pedigree today. It is said to be for Miss Li."

    Lu Yanming''s tall body was hidden in the half-light and half-shadow. His cool voice was expressionless, "He should have done this long ago, unfortunately... he waste."

    Fei Zhao rubbed his nose.

    Shouldn''t Young Master hear his tone? Why does he feel smug...

    Besides, it is said that Yu Sheng was severely punished by the family and seriously injured.

    Even Fei Zhao felt a little heartache for Yu Sheng.

    Moreover.

    He didn''t understand what Young Master was so happy about. Li Zhen was still angry at him!

    He and Yu Sheng were in the same boat!

    Fei Zhaoined in his heart, but hurried to echo on the surface, "Yes, Young Master, Yu Sheng doing these things is futile now. Miss Li will forever be yours, Young Master."

    Upon hearing this, Lu Yanming nced at him, "She belongs to no one, she is her own person."

    Fei Zhao: ......You''re pretentious!

    "Let''s go, back." Lu Yanming opened the back seat door with his long and powerful hand.

    He looked out the window as the shadows of the trees slowly retreated.

    The recent events puzzled him. Why was Li Zhen still keeping her divorce from Yu Sheng a secret from others?

    What was she trying to resolve or aplish?

    Li Zhen arrived at the door of Qiaoyi Building, about to ring the doorbell, and remembered there was a baby Duoduo at home.

    Worried that the doorbell might wake her up, Li Zhen decided to send Qiao Yi a message.

    As she took out her phone, an iing call popped up, frightening Li Zhen into identally answering it.

    Li Yinnan''s barely suppressed angry voice came from the other end of the call, "Li Zhen,e home now."

    Li Zhenughed bitterly, "Dad, do you know what time it is now? It''s almost 11 p.m., and you want me to go from the south of the city to the west?"

    "It''s about the share transfer contract."

    Li Zhen was choked by these words. The share transfer contract had already been signed, what more was there to discuss?

    Could it be that Li Yinnan had discovered that she and Yu Sheng were actually divorced?

    The road was quite smooth in the early morning hours.

    Forty minutester, Li Zhen arrived at the Li''s house and entered the hall. Li Yinnan and Li Yanran were sitting on the sofa.

    Li Yanran looked at her arrogantly, smiling ambiguously.

    Li Zhen''s heart skipped a beat, sensing something bad.

    She sat down on the sofa beside them. "Dad."

    "You still know I''m your dad!" Li Yinnan pped the coffee table hard with his palm.

    The loud bang made Li Zhen frown, "Speak properly."

    "Speak properly! How to speak properly! For your sake, for you and Yu Sheng, I gave you..." Li Yinnan said up to this point, frowned even tighter, looked at Li Yanran, "Go upstairs and rest first, adult business is not for kids to hear."

    Li Yanran pouted, "Dad, what can''t I hear? I also want to..."

    "Go upstairs!" Li Yinnan was out of patience.

    "Alright, I''m going." Li Yanran looked resentfully at Li Zhen before reluctantly going upstairs.

    Only then did Li Yinnan speak harshly again, "Previously when I gave you the shares, although I didn''t say it explicitly, you should know it was for the Yu family..."

    Li Zhen sneered inwardly.

    Li Yinnan had finally stopped concealing his true motives.

    Li Yinnan became increasingly furious, hisplexion turning ashen, "But you! You actually instigated Yu Sheng to withdraw from the Yu family pedigree. Then why did I even give you the shares! To do charity?"

    Li Yinnan could see that Yu Sheng was good to Li Zhen.

    But he didn''t expect him to be this good!

    To directly withdraw from the pedigree for her sake!

    Upon hearing this, Li Zhen was stunned for a moment.

    Yu Sheng withdrew from the pedigree?

    When did this happen?

    What did he mean by her instigating it? What did this have to do with her?

    Li Yinnan flung the contract in front of her, "I''ll give you two options, either persuade Yu Sheng to abandon the idea of withdrawing from the pedigree, or you go to the hospital alone to recuperate untiling out after a year."

    Li Zhen nodded inwardly andughed. As expected, this was Li Yinnan''s merchant nature.

    No matter the signed contract, if he didn''t want to fulfill it, he had plenty of ways to stop her.

    Li Zhen smiled and mocked, "Dad, you really deserve to be a sessful businessman, wanting to imprison me just so I won''t get pregnant."

    Now that things hade to this, there was no point in keeping it secret. Li Zhen casually said, "You don''t need to imprison me either, Yu Sheng and I have already div..."

    Li Zhen didn''t finish her sentence.

    A servant suddenly rushed in in panic, interrupting her, "Mr. Li, there are many people outside, they have surrounded our vi!"

    Li Yinnan frowned, "What! ...Let me go take a look."

    As he spoke, he nced at Li Zhen and instructed, "Take her phone away and lock her in the backyard."

    Two servants immediately came over to hold Li Zhen by both sides and snatched her phone away.

    Li Zhen''s eyes narrowed as she mocked softly, "You really can just lock me up immediately? You''re so authoritarian!"

    Li Yanran had been hiding at the corner of the staircase all this while.

    She couldn''t hear the conversation downstairs clearly, but seeing Li Zhen being taken away by two servants, she knew it was no small matter!

    Li Zhen was finally in trouble.

    Li Yanran secretly followed Li Zhen.

    -

    As soon as Li Yinnan stepped out, he was shocked by the scene before him.

    Outside the vi gates were densely packed cars.

    People got out of the cars one after another.

    Some were Li Yinnan''s business partners, some were the heads of projects he was negotiating, some were figures of influence in Jin City that he had always wanted to build connections with but never managed to reach.

    They were carrying valuable gifts in their hands. Seeing Li Yinnane out, they eagerly shoved the gifts into his hands with ingratiating smiles.

    "Old Li, you''ve kept your daughter''s engagement to Yu''s eldest son hidden all this while. You really didn''t treat us as friends."

    "Too unfriendly, hahahaha..."

    "Congrattions, congrattions!"

    Some also whispered privately to Li Yinnan, "About Young Master Yu withdrawing from the family pedigree, don''t worry yourself over it. Yu''s second son is ipetent, in the end the Yu family will still be your son-inw''s."

    Li Yinnan saw this scene and suddenly realized.

    The news of Yu Sheng withdrawing from the pedigree had spread!

    Of course!

    He had been muddled by anger just now.

    The Yu family bloodline was thin, with only two sons. The huge family business couldn''t be supported by Yu''s second son alone.

    The many uncles in the Yu family who had devoted themselves wholeheartedly to the family, how could they allow the family to be handed to Yu''s second son?

    It was perfect now.

    The news of Yu Sheng withdrawing from the pedigree for Li Zhen''s sake had spread in their social circle.

    This was precisely when the Li family could take advantage of the situation.

    Li Yinnan quickly invited the well-wishers into the hall and had the servants prepare refreshments and wine.

    The Li house instantly became lively.

 Chapter 93: You canâ€™t Take the Key with You.

    <h4>Chapter 93</h4>

    Upstairs, Li Zhen was locked in a small hut in the backyard of the vi.

    It was pitch ck inside, without any light.

    There was only a bowl-sized small window, through which some dots of light shone through.

    Li Zhen remembered that year when she was seven, grandfather took her to the Li Family, and she was locked in here by Li Yanran for six hours.

    She slipped a small iron wire through the door crack, practiced opening the lock like on TV, escaped to the lobby, and told everyone it was Li Yanran who locked her in.

    Li Yanran hid in Li Yinnan''s arms, raising her chin and said: "Dad, I locked her in, I just hate her."

    Li Yinnan said: "Yanran is good, don''t do that next time."

    Li Zhen knew then that she was a bastard, a person born wrong.

    No one would be willing to stand up for her.

    Because she didn''t deserve it.

    She had to rely on herself to get what she wanted.

    It took great efforts for her to get the shares this time, agonizingly maneuvering between Li Yinnan and Yu Sheng.

    Now, it was also foiled.

    At this moment, Li Yanran''s voice came from outside, "Open the door."

    "Miss, but the boss told us to lock her in..."

    "Open! You dare not listen to me! If my dad mes you, I''ll take the responsibility."

    After a moment of fumbling with the lock.

    The door opened, and Li Yanran came in.

    "Tsk tsk tsk, it''s so dirty here, but it suits you well, Li Zhen. I''m very curious what you did to anger my dad so much."

    Li Zhen ignored her.

    She found a small stool in the corner and sat down.

    Seeing no reaction from her, Li Yanran continued to provoke her, "How many times has this been that you were locked in this ce? I wonder how long my dad will lock you up this time, one month? Two months?"

    Li Zhen picked at the mud on the ground with a stick, bored.

    Her face was expressionless, but her heart sank a little.

    Upon careful thinking, Li Yinnan was very cautious, he must know she was divorced, and would likely lock her up to prevent her from getting pregnant some other way to get the shares.

    Could it be he really wanted to lock her up for a year?

    Li Zhen sighed softly.

    "Li Zhen." Li Yanran walked two steps forward and looked down on her condescendingly, "Before, it was just me who hated you, and my mom. Now even my dad hates you. What''s the point of you being alive?"

    Li Zhen nced at Li Yanran indifferently, "Hate if you want, it''s not like your liking could sublimate my life."

    "You... you have no shame!"

    "Not caring about your opinion means having no shame? Is your opinion the unified standard of the world? Can being liked by you confer a Nobel Prize?" Li Zhen didn''t understand Li Yanran''s logic.

    She wanted to provoke her with just the fact that people didn''t like her.

    What were their liking worth?

    Li Yanran sneered, "However sharp-tongued you are Li Zhen, you are still locked in here now. Just like your mother, a pathetic stray dog."

    Li Zhen''s eyes turned cold, "What do you mean?"

    "Looks like you haven''t seen it. Your mother was also locked here before. My mom has videos of your mother being locked up. This clutter room is suitable for lowly people like you..."

    Li Yanran wascent and hadn''t reacted yet when Li Zhen suddenly threw a bottle at her.

    With a "crash", Li Yanran was hit hard on the head.

    "Ah!" Li Yanran shrieked, then a dizzy sensation rushed up.

    She touched where she was hit, her hand full of blood.

    "Dad! Mom!" Li Yanran cried out in horror.

    Li Zhen grabbed her hair and picked up another bottle, "Li Yanran, I''ve warned you many times, don''t mention my mother!"

    "Since you can''t remember, I can only teach you a good lesson to make you remember for life!"

    Li Zhen had wanted to beat up Li Yanran for a long time.

    Since she was going to be locked up anyway, half a year, or a year, she should take care of this matter in her heart before being locked up.

    She said softly, "You should suffer more pain than me before I can forgive you!"

    "Li Zhen!"

    A loud shout came from the door.

    Li Zhen looked up to see Li Yinnan rushing in, snatching the bottle from her hand.

    Li Yanran threw herself into Li Yinnan''s arms. Where was the slightest trace of begging for mercy just now?

    She wailed loudly, "Dad, call an ambnce quickly. I''ve lost so much blood. Li Zhen tried to kill me. Chop off her hands, you must chop off her hands!"

    Li Yinnan frowned and said in a low voice, "After all, she is your sister."

    Li Yanran was stunned.

    In the past, he would have cursed Li Zhen for her. Why was he like this today...

    "Zhen''er, go home," Li Yinnan said unnaturally. After thinking for a moment, he added, "Be careful on the way back."

    Li Yanran couldn''t believe it, "Dad, weren''t you going to lock her up? She just hit me, and you just let her go like this?"

    Li Zhen was also surprised that Li Yinnan would let her go so easily.

    But she didn''t care what was wrong with Li Yinnan.

    She walked straight out, catching a glimpse of the servant calling an ambnce with his phone.

    Li Zhen nced at the lock on the door, quickly turned back and locked it.

    "Click." The door was locked.

    Li Zhen held the key in her own hand.

    Li Yinnan: ...

    Li Yanran: ...

    Servant: ...

    Li Yinnan said solemnly, "Zhen''er, open the door!"

    Li Yanran scrambled up and pounded the door violently, "Li Zhen, open the door!"

    Li Zhen smiled, "Hearing you shout so loudly, it doesn''t seem I hit you that hard just now."

    On the other end of the phone, the operator was still asking, "Sir, may I ask your exact address?"

    But the servant waspletely stunned by Li Zhen''s actions.

    Seeing Li Zhen about to leave with the key, the servant stammered, "Miss...Miss Li, you can''t take the key away, otherwise the door can''t be opened."

    "Is that so?" Li Zhen smiled brightly at the servant, speaking very gently, "That''s great then."

    Li Zhen tossed the key into the nearby sewer with a "plop". The water washed the key forward until it disappeared.

    The servant was dumbfounded.

    Li Yanran was still screaming hysterically, "Open the door, open it quickly, I don''t want to be locked in here!"

    Of course Li Zhen knew this door could only be opened with this key.

    Ever since seven-year-old her opened the lock, Lin Zhiyin had reced it with an iron door, with the lock core custom made to the highest anti-theft level.

    Perhaps Lin Zhiyin didn''t expect that the lock meant to keep her out, would also have the day to lock in her own daughter.

    Li Zhen walked forward step by step, but looked back at the hut when she was about to leave.

    Li Yanran said Lin Zhiyin had videos of her mother locked in the hut.

    Li Zhen had never seen her mother from when she was little to now...

 Chapter 94: Do you approve

    <h4>Chapter 94</h4>

    Li Zhen sent Qiao Yi a message,

    Qiao Yi opened the door and saw Li Zhen, very surprised, "Li Zhen, what''s going on, why are you out soteing to my ce?"

    Li Zhen peeked into the room, her voice lowered, "It''s a long story, I need to stay here for two nights, on Monday I''ll go to the HR department to apply for a dorm room again."

    "You don''t need to speak so softly, Tuantuan is asleep, she won''t wake up." Qiao Yi brought Li Zhen into the guest room, chatting with her while making the bed.

    Li Zhen was too exhausted tonight, lying in bed and falling asleep in no time.

    She slept very uneasily.

    She dreamed that Lu Yanming forcibly stripped her clothes and pressed her in the car. His tone was gentle yet cruel, "Zhen Zhen, I know every hair on your leg like the back of my hand. Want to be the little pampered wife who runs away to be CEO? Then I''ll break Zhen Zhen''s legs..."

    Li Zhen suddenly woke up.

    What the hell is leg hair!

    She quickly touched her legs to make sure there was no sudden leg hair growing in the middle of the night.

    Just as she fell back asleep, she saw Yu Sheng again in her dream.

    He looked pale and fragile, kneeling in a dimly lit ce, looking back at her standing at the door, "Li Zhen..."

    Li Zhen felt a stab of pain in her heart for a moment.

    The next second, the scene changed, and she dreamed of Li Yanran with her head wrapped in gauze, mocking her, "Li Zhen, you want to take shares of the Li family? Keep dreaming! You can''t take anything from the Li family! You were born to be the most despicable existence in the Li family, just like your mother, to be locked up forever..."

    Locked up where?

    She wanted to ask in the dream, but her throat was blocked and she couldn''t make a sound.

    The next day Li Zhen went to the theater to rehearse.

    Around ten o''clock at night when she was about to leave, Meng Changsheng called Li Zhen outside and earnestly urged her, "Li Zhen, we all see your talent, the performance is tomorrow night, don''t be nervous, just perform normally."

    Li Zhen knew Meng Changsheng was worried she would be too nervous and have an abnormal performance.

    She wasn''t that nervous originally.

    But being reminded by Meng Changsheng like this, she lost confidence.

    While the two were talking, Zhu Yuting ran out from somewhere, "Director Meng, what are you saying, Sister Li Zhen is great, she will definitely have no problem!"

    Shi Tianya also chimed in with a smile, "That''s right, Sister Li Zhen will surely dazzle the audience tomorrow night!"

    "Alright, I definitely will." Li Zhen felt warm inside.

    On Monday, the first thing Li Zhen did after finishing the filming task was to go to the HR department to apply for a room change.

    The person in charge of dormitory registration was Xiao Cai.

    When Li Zhen said she wanted to change dorms, Xiao Cai looked very embarrassed: "Li Zhen, if you want to change..."

    Honghai Corporation had loose dorm management, everything was based on employee opinions. But Xiao Cai''s embarrassment made Li Zhen feel something was wrong, "Xiao Cai, what''s going on? Are the dorms tight recently?"

    Xiao Cai felt guilty for suspecting Li Zhen wronglyst time at the IF Mall.

    She thought about it and still leaned in to whisper in Li Zhen''s ear, "It was the supervisor who told me before that if you want to change dorms, I can''t give you one directly."

    Li Zhen was puzzled, "Why?"

    "I don''t know either." Xiao Cai shook her head.

    Managers and above were managed by the HR supervisor, while Xiao Cai usually arranged things for ordinary employees.

    Xiao Cai was also very confused.

    "Thank you, Xiao Cai."

    Li Zhen walked towards the HR supervisor''s office.

    She knocked on the door and heard a e in" from inside.

    Li Zhen pushed open the door.

    The HR supervisor was a middle-aged woman dressed very professionally, sitting in an office chair and lowering her head to process documents.

    She was too focused.

    So focused that Li Zhen had already been called in for a few minutes but she had already forgotten about Li Zhen.

    "Supervisor Xu, I want to bother you for two minutes." Li Zhen had to speak up.

    Only then did Xu Yu look up.

    Li Zhen didn''t know if she was imagining it, but Xu Yu''s eyes seemed to light up when she saw her.

    Xu Yu quickly got up and let Li Zhen sit on the sofa, "Li Zhen, you guys have been busy recently right? How do you still have time toe to me."

    "I wanted to ask about the dorm situation. I just asked Xiao Cai and she said it doesn''t seem easy to change dorms now?" Li Zhen got straight to the point.

    Xu Yu tentatively asked: "Did Mr. Lu agree for you to change dorms?"

    Li Zhen: ......

    Li Zhen''s face turned red all of a sudden.

    Mr. Lu?

    What kind of title is this!

    She had always thought that she and Lu Yanming lived together, known between heaven and earth, known between her and Lu Yanming.

    Only now did she btedly realize there was another person who knew - the supervisor in charge of senior management dorms sitting in front of her!

    "Did you guys have a fight?" Xu Yu asked with concern.

    In the rumor mill of male gods, Xu Yu was the only one in the know, eating melon was the happiest thing for her.

    That feeling of sobriety while everyone else was drunk gave her a sense of superiority, exponentially increasing her enjoyment of gossip.

    People saidst time Mr. Lu was chasing Qiao Yi?

    Impossible!

    That could only be Mr. Lu helping Qiao Yi out of love for Li Zhen.

    And that day Mr. Lu was waiting at the IF Mall entrance to send Li Zhen home.

    That wasn''t a senior leaderforting a lowly employee who was wronged.

    That was a couple going home together! Just a romantic gesture between lovers!

    And at the PR department meeting that day, everyone else was fangirling over Mr. Lu''s handsomeness and ruthlessness, but only she could fangirl over the essence.

    That was the overbearing CEO fiercely protecting his little wife at work!

    Xu Yu''s source of daily happiness was secretly shipping this invisible melon, she was now their most loyal shipper!

    It took Li Zhen a long time to regain herposure and pretend to be calm, "Supervisor Xu, you must not misunderstand, Mr. Lu and I have nothing."

    Xu Yu nodded firmly, "I understand, we''ll keep it lowkey!"

    Li Zhen: ......You still have a gossiping expression!

    Unable to exin it clearly, Li Zhen quickly resolved the dorm issue, "Supervisor Xu, please help arrange it with Xiao Cai."

    "Alright." Xu Yu sighed inwardly.

    It seemed like the two had a huge fight, Li Zhen was too stubborn, she had to agree even if unwilling.

    "Thank you Supervisor Xu." Li Zhen got up and pulled open the office door.

    She suddenly heard Xu Yu cautiously ask in a gossipy tone, "Um, Li Zhen, I wonder, is Mr. Lu really five..."

    "Bang" Li Zhen hurriedly closed the door.

    As long as she escaped fast enough, she could pretend not to have heard the "seconds" word.

    There were no vacant dorms now, so Li Zhen could only share with someone else.

    Li Zhen chose a room where another female colleague lived, which was also close to thepany.

    On the way back to the office, Li Zhen felt veryplicated.

    Fortunately Supervisor Xu just silently ate melon, not like little girls who can''t keep things to themselves.

    Back at her work station, Zhang Xiya and Meng Yuanjie were happily eating melon in the male gods chat group.

    Seeing Li Zhen, Zhang Xiya immediately pulled her to sit down, "Little Zhen Zhen, the male gods group exploded today."

    "What happened?" Li Zhen asked indifferently, picking up her water cup to drink.

    "Colleagues from the marketing department said Mr. Yu didn''te to work today."

    Li Zhen''s drinking motion paused for a moment.

    Yu Sheng noting to work was indeed shocking news.

 Chapter 95: Not many people come, you donâ€™t worry about acting

    <h4>Chapter 95</h4>

    That Saturday night, Li Yinan first asked her to persuade Yu Sheng, and then wanted to put her under house arrest.

    Later, he actually released her himself.

    By releasing her, it meant that Li Yinan tacitly agreed to continue honoring the share transfer agreement.

    That also meant Yu Sheng''s matter should not have reached a particrly serious point.

    "Li Zhen, what are you daydreaming about? I asked you a question," Meng Yuanjie pushed her arm.

    Li Zhen came back to her senses, "What did you ask me?"

    "I asked if you were free tonight. Work was too tiring today, and I badly need a gathering to recharge," Meng Yuanjie said with augh.

    Zhang Xiya looked at him disdainfully, "I''m not going tonight. You didn''t make ns on the weekend, and now you want to gather with us on Monday. I''m not in the mood at all."

    "I''m not going either," Li Zhen declined.

    Qiao Yi had juste back from a shoot and asked Li Zhen, "Did you get your dorm situation sorted out?"

    "Yes, it''s been sorted out," Li Zhen nodded.

    Zhang Xiya was puzzled, "Why did you want to change dorms when you were doing just fine?"

    Li Zhen didn''t want to go into too much detail, and gave a vague exnation, "I moved to one that''s a little closer to thepany."

    After work, Li Zhen hurriedly left Honghai Tower.

    She took a taxi to the theater.

    Tonight''s performance would start at 8pm.

    When Li Zhen arrived, backstage makeup rooms were already busy preparing.

    Zhu Yuting, who had finished hair, makeup and costumes, pulled Li Zhen to sit at a makeup table, "Li Zhen, don''t be too nervous tonight. Ticket sales haven''t been great the past few days, there won''t be a big audience. Just rx and perform however you want."

    Before Zhu Yuting could finish, Shi Tianya''s voice rang out, "How could you say ticket sales are bad..."

    "Why can''t I say it? Li Zhen is one of us," Zhu Yuting rolled her eyes.

    "You didn''t phrase it right. It''s not just bad, it''s terrible!" Shi Tianya sat next to Li Zhen, crossing his legs, "We had 2000 tickets, but only sold 300."

    Li Zhen was shocked for a moment, but quickly suppressed it andforted, "That''s pretty good. 300 audience members means 300 expectations."

    "Li Zhen really knows what to say," Zhu Yutingughed heartily.

    Although Zhu Yuting and Shi Tianya spoke jokingly, they were also sad inside. Li Zhen''s words offort hit home for them.

    After hearing this, Li Zhen really did feel much more rxed.

    Compared to 2000 audience members, 300 seemed far less pressure.

    At the theater entrance, there were two lines.

    One line was people who had already purchased tickets, lining up to enter the auditorium.

    The other was people buying tickets on site.

    Meng Yuanjie was in the small group buying tickets, furious as he waited in line.

    He couldn''t gather anyone for dinner, and had nned to eat alone. But halfway, he received a call from his uncle saying there were too few audience members tonight, and toe help fill seats.

    Who even watches theater nowadays?

    "One ticket please, for the back row," with so few people, Meng Yuanjie quickly got to the front.

    He nned to just y on his phone in the back row.

    "Alright, that''ll be 368 yuan," the ticket seller handed him a ticket.

    "The back row costs that much?" Meng Yuanjie was surprised, but reluctantly paid.

    Tickets were hard to sell, yet so expensive. No wonder there were so few people.

    While inwardlyining, Meng Yuanjie walked forward. From the corner of his eye, he saw the poster for "Legend of the White Snake", "That female lead looks a lot like Li Zhen..."

    After taking two more steps, Meng Yuanjie abruptly halted.

    Then he quickly ran back to the poster.

    Were his eyes ying tricks?

    He rubbed his eyes.

    That was Li Zhen!

    Meng Yuanjie was shocked and hurriedly took out his phone, snapping a photo and sending it to their group chat of four with the text: ¡¾Oh my god! Did I cross into a parallel universe? How is Li Zhen acting in a y?¡¿

    He had expected Zhang Xiya and Qiao Yi to share his surprise and help stabilize his emotions.

    But after a long while, the chat was dead silent without any response.

    On the other hand, the Macho Banquet group exploded with 99+ new messages!

    Finally someone in his chat group responded.

    HR Manager Xu Yu: ¡¾Meng Yuanjie from Advertising is using thepany group to promote a side job performance of his colleague, viting rtedpany regtions. Fined 1000 yuan. Everyone take this as a warning.¡¿

    Meng Yuanjie: ...Heartbroken!

    The next second, someone @ him in the Macho Banquet group.

    HR Manager Xu Yu: [@Advertising''s Meng Yuanjie, Yuanjie, where is Li Zhen''s performance? I want to go watch!]

    Advertising''s Zhang Xiya: [@Meng Yuanjie, are you stupid? You can''t post this in thepany group! Do you have money to burn posting in the big group!]

    Legal Manager Song Jie: [Wow Li Zhen looks so beautiful in costume and makeup! I want to go too, send the location quickly.]

    HR Assistant Manager Xiao Cai: [I''d like to see it too, but theater tickets are so expensive and I can''t bear to spend that much.]

    Meng Yuanjie opened the group chat, dizzy from the dozens of people @ing him.

    Compared to the lively Macho Banquet chat, thepany group was dead silent.

    Until a shocking message was sent that stunned everyone.

    Marketing Director Yu Sheng: ¡¾After work, everyone should enrich their lives more. @Zhao Yan from Marketing Team 1, take note of marketing colleagues and their family members attending tonight''s show. I''ll reimburse half of the ticket costs.¡¿

    Right after this message, the marketing department instantly blew up.

    Marketing Team 1 Manager Zhao Yan: ¡¾Got it, thanks Director Yu.¡¿

    Marketing Team 3 Zhang Tao: ¡¾Thank you Director Yu!¡¿

    Marketing Team 1 Tian Pingwei: ¡¾Thank you Director Yu!¡¿

    ...

    The Macho Banquet group exploded again with 99+ new messages.

    ¡¾I just searched, front row tickets are 868 yuan, middle section 668 yuan, back row still 368 yuan. I''m not worthy...¡¿

    ¡¾Can I be marketing''s family member now?¡¿

    ¡¾Why doesn''t our department''s director reimburse tickets? I''m crying to death!¡¿

    ¡¾Director Yu dares to reimburse half, that''s terrifying.¡¿

    ¡¾How high are marketing sriespared to other departments...¡¿

    ¡¾Roar! Ladies check thepany group quick! Boss Lu is awesome!!!¡¿

    Boss Lu? What did Boss Lu post again?

    Everyone hurriedly opened up thepany group.

    In thepany group...

    Lu Yanming: ¡¾Director Yu is right, everyone should rx more.¡¿

    Lu Yanming: ¡¾For all group employees and family attending tonight''s show, thepany will reimburse three-fifths of the ticket cost.¡¿

    With thepany covering three-fifths, the tickets were basically free!

    In just over 10 seconds, messages of "Thank you Boss Lu" had flooded thepany group with over a thousand posts.

    All of Honghai''s employees immediately sprang into action.

    Swarming towards the Grand Theater.

    Screenshots of Lu Yanming''s message instantly swept through otherpanies on Tianfu Second Street like a tidal wave.

    They posted mournfully on Moments.

    ¡¾That guy who said "overtime deducts performance" is wrecking the scene again...¡¿

    ¡¾(Angry pic) I strongly suggest Honghai fire Lu Yanming! (Kitten begging pic) Have him join ourpany instead.¡¿

    ¡¾This world owes me a Lu Yanming!¡¿

    ¡¾Just handed in my resignation letter, Honghai here Ie!¡¿

    Meng Yuanjie stood dumbfounded in ce, looking mystified at the uncountable messages on his phone.

    All he did was post a photo...

    Now the wholepany ising?

 Chapter 96: Long Time No See

    <h4>Chapter 96</h4>

    Backstage at the theater.

    Meng Changsheng was patrolling backstage with his hands behind his back.

    Suddenly, the theater manager rushed in, out of breath, his face flushed red, "Director Meng...Director Meng...the audience for your show today..."

    Meng Changsheng became nervous, "What happened? Did the actual turnout fall far short, and the theater won''t let us perform?"

    The people backstage unconsciously lowered their movements and pricked up their ears to listen.

    "No, your audience...sold out!" The theater manager finally got the whole sentence out in one breath.

    Shi Tianya stuck his head over, "How did it sell out? Was it a terrorist attack? Were other people injured and taken to the hospital?"

    The theater manager caught his breath and grabbed Meng Changsheng''s hand, "Director Meng, your audience numbers exploded!"

    Meng Changsheng froze for a moment, then his heart started pounding rapidly.

    Could it be?

    A y could still sell out nowadays?

    Meng Changsheng hurried to follow the theater manager out to take a look.

    Shi Tianya also wanted to tag along in shock.

    Meng Changsheng pushed him back, "Don''t add to themotion, go tell everyone to get ready again!"

    At the theater entrance, it was already chaotic.

    The 2,000 tickets sold out in just an hour.

    There was no telling how many people who didn''t get tickets were still lingering around the entrance.

    Meng Changsheng hadn''t seen this kind of scene in over ten years. His eyes started watering for a moment, and he turned to the theater manager, "Open up the second floor balcony as well."

    He had never imagined there would be another day when their y could have the chance to open up the second floor balcony at Jincheng Grand Theater.

    "We''re already preparing for that, and also preparing temporary admission tickets." The experienced theater manager had sensed something was off and immediately made arrangements.

    The sudden increase in audience numbers meant they werepletely understaffed.

    Meng Changsheng busied about with the theater manager for half an hour, helping the staff arrange for everyone to buy tickets, running around without a moment''s rest, with beads of sweat dripping down his forehead. Out of the corner of his eye, he happened to see Meng Yuanjie chatting.

    Meng Changsheng strode over, "Yuanjie, go to the auditorium now and help the staff show everyone to their seats...She''s your friend right, have her help out too."

    Meng Changsheng walked away swiftly after speaking.

    Meng Yuanjie: ...

    Zhang Xiya: ...

    Zhang Xiya looked at Meng Changsheng''s departing figure in confusion, "Who is he?"

    "My wretched uncle." Meng Yuanjie was vexed, snatched again for hardbor.

    There were ten minutes until curtain.

    Li Zhen heard the hubbub outside and asked Shi Tianya next to her in puzzlement, "Was it this noisy outside before the show started in the past?"

    Shi Tianya scrolled on his phone nonchntly, "I heard the theater manager say earlier that the audience exploded today, so there are a lot more people, that''s why it''s noisier."

    "How many people is ''exploded''?" Li Zhen''s heart, which had settled back down, shot up again instantly.

    "Our tickets exploded oncest year too, and there were around...600 people." Shi Tianya carefully recalled.

    Li Zhen''s lifted heart settled back down.

    600 people.

    That was still alright.

    "ces, ces!"

    "Act 1 performers stand by for ces!"

    Li Zhen and everyone else stood in the wing beside the stage.

    Only a curtain separated them from the stage.

    Beyond the curtain, the stage below was now quiet.

    Li Zhen''s palms inexplicably began sweating.

    From the slit in the curtain, she looked at the audience below the stage, but it was pitch ck below and she couldn''t make anything out at all.

    "Snap", the stage lights suddenly zed on brightly.

    Li Zhen closed her eyes briefly.

    She heard a voice in her mind psyching her up.

    That person.

    Was her neen year old self.

    The smoke spread, the music sounded, the green snake that had cultivated for 500 years took human form and frolicked with the white snake in a lotus pond. Suddenly, a monk wearing a kasaya appeared holding a golden alms bowl, with refined features and a pure Buddhist aura. The white snake panicked and turned to flee, but saw that her sister was gazing longingly at the monk.

    The white snake hissed in a low voice, "That''s Fahai, sister do you know?"

    The green snake''s gaze didn''t shift one bit, her eyes were tender and bewitching, delicate as a budding flower, pulled away by her elder sister but leaving behind a lingering lovesick gaze.

    Love at first sight, enduring for thousands of years.

    The scene on stage slowly transformed, meeting Xu Xian, the flood at Jinshan Temple, under Leifeng Pagoda...

    Through one upheaval after another, the green snake finally understood what her sister had said.

    He was Fahai, a monk.

    She was a green snake, a demon.

    He had taken advantage of her, harming her sister.

    She slowly ascended on stage, her demonic energy thickening with the spreading smoke, delivering the final strike as she looked down from high above at the man copsing below.

    Her gaze was firm and indifferent, yet tears were on the verge of falling.

    "Feiwende, let''s not meet again in our next life."

    She didn''t call him "Fahai", but his secr name "Feiwende".

    As thest word of her line fell.

    "Snap", all the lights on stage and below lit up.

    The thousands below stood up, apuding thunderously, the cheers sounded like ocean waves, continuing endlessly.

    "Amazing! Amazing!"

    "Li Zhen! Idol, you rock!"

    "Li Zhen, Li Zhen!"

    Li Zhen''s performance was too moving, too astonishing. Most people had seen the most jewelry, but now felt that Li Zhen was the treasure they couldn''t bear to part with.

    Shi Tianya and everyone else were shocked into retreating a step, "Fuck! Where did all these peoplee from!"

    Only Li Zhen remained standing in ce, gazing up at the ceiling of the theater amidst the endless cheers.

    She raised the corners of her lips lightly, her blood was boiling, yet her heartbeat was slowly and heavily pounding.

    She murmured to herself, saying to her neen year old self: "Li Zhen, you''re back."

    Below, Lu Yanming stood in the front row, gazing up at Li Zhen.

    That gaze was not like looking at a woman, but more like looking at the deity to whom he had devoted his flesh, blood and soul.

    Li Zhen didn''t know that her own soft murmur would receive a response from someone else in the surging crowd.

    Lu Yanming pulled his lips into a smile, murmuring lowly: "Li Zhen, long time no see."

    You who are radiant and glorious, long time no see.

    Backstage, everyone was extremely excited.

    They were all discussing how so many people had suddenly shown up today.

    Shi Tianyaughed merrily, "Director Meng, you sure kept this from us! Coming up to thousands, yet you managed to restrain yourself from telling us."

    Meng Changsheng alsoughed, "Wasn''t I afraid you''d get distracted and not perform well?"

    In the corner, Li Zhen packed up her things while taking out her phone.

    As soon as she unlocked it, countless people''s messages flooded toward her.

    All were congrattory, praising...

    Li Zhen finally opened the bigpany group to find out why.

    Yu Sheng supporting her was rather unexpected.

    It seemed that with their impending divorce, she truly no longer had any ties with him, so he didn''t care what she did anymore.

    After the show ended, it was close to 10pm.

    Li Zhen went to the supermarket to buy some daily necessities and changes of clothes, then headed to her new amodations.

    The new ce was right next to thepany, also an oldplex.

    Without even an elevator, getting upstairs required climbing.

    Li Zhen hauled her bags and packages up five flights of stairs, panting.

    Yet she didn''t feel tired at all, she was in too good of a mood today.

    She took out her keys, about to open the door, then thought against it and knocked on the door instead.

    "Who is it!" A man''s voice sounded.

    Li Zhen suddenly sensed something was off.

    The next second, the man had opened the door.

    Li Zhen looked at the man before her who was only wearing a towel around his waist, exposing his upper body, momentarily frozen in the doorway.

    The man was even more surprised than Li Zhen. He yelled inside, "Xiao Xiao, trouble! That green snake from on stage came to our ce!"

 Chapter 97: Donâ€™t Worry about it

    <h4>Chapter 97</h4>

    As Xiao Xiao was washing clothes, she didn''t quite understand what she heard and hurried out.

    Seeing Li Zhen instantly, her heart skipped a beat.

    Xiao Xiao worked in the public rtions department. Before today''s stage performance, she had never seen Li Zhen before.

    But now she recognized her.

    "Li Zhen, what are you..." Xiao Xiao looked at the things in Li Zhen''s hands, having a bad premonition.

    If the person hadn''t called her name, Li Zhen would have thought she went to the wrong ce when she saw the man.

    "Hello, my dormitory was arranged here." Li Zhen hesitated and nced at the man, "But if it''s inconvenient for you, I can apply for another dormitory?"

    Xiao Xiao noticed Li Zhen''s gaze and quickly said, "This is my boyfriend, he came from my hometown to see me and will stay for a few days before leaving. Don''t worry about staying here."

    The man had already entered the room.

    Xiao Xiao helped carry two bags and led Li Zhen into the room, then returned to her own room.

    Li Zhen wiped every corner of the bedroom with a handkerchief before realizing that she had forgotten to buy the most important thing: bed sheets, quilts and pillows.

    She went downstairs again and bought them at the supermarket, huffing and puffing as she carried them upstairs.

    As she opened the door and put the stuff in there, just as she was about to close the door...

    A slender, long-fingered hand reached in from outside, grasping the door frame.

    Li Zhen''s heart jumped, and she lifted her leg to kick the man''s most vulnerable spot, but her knee was blocked by the man''s hand.

    Li Zhen opened her mouth to yell, "Xiao..."

    The next second.

    The man raised his hand to cover Li Zhen''s lips, shed in, and single-handedly slung Li Zhen over his shoulder. His foot mmed the door shut with a "bang".

    The man''s strength was terrifying.

    With one hand covering her mouth and the other holding her waist, Li Zhen''s struggles didn''t move him one bit.

    The man went into the open bedroom, locked the door, and put Li Zhen down.

    Li Zhen was dazed and dizzy from being carried. Her legs went soft as she touched the ground.

    Her waist was steadily held by the man.

    "Li Zhen, were you calling me just now?" Xiao Xiao''s voice came from the door.

    Li Zhen came to her senses, and before she could make a sound, her lips were blocked.

    The fierce kiss deprived Li Zhen of oxygen.

    She forced herself to regain rity, and once again lifted her knee to kick the man''s vulnerable spot.

    Maybe the man was too passionate with the kiss, or maybe he didn''t expect Li Zhen, who could only lean against the door, to still be able to fight back.

    Li Zhen had already lost most of her strength, but she still kicked him hard enough to elicit a muffled groan from the man.

    Xiao Xiao stood outside the door for a while without hearing any movement before leaving.

    The man released her and took half a step back.

    Li Zhen was about to yell loudly, but when she saw the person in front of her clearly, her brows furrowed in disbelief. "President Lu, how could you..."

    "I was wrong." Lu Yanming, dressed in an exquisite, well-tailored suit, with gold-rimmed sses perched on his tall nose, stood quietly in front of Li Zhen, his earlier domineering aurapletely gone, instead looking aggrieved.

    Li Zhen was still breathing unevenly, blocked by the three words. She said angrily, "I''m here again, did you have Assistant Fei find out where I was again?"

    "It''s got nothing to do with me. He took it upon himself to find out and tell me." Lu Yanming''s tone was calm.

    As if aware that his own voice was too superior, he deliberately spoke leisurely in a melodious, maic tone that was rather ticklish.

    Downstairs in the car, Fei Zhao sneezed.

    Li Zhen was still angry that Lu Yanming had investigated her whereabouts, but now she felt a little stifled, both angry and annoyed.

    She lifted her chin slightly. "President Lu, you don''t think that just because it''s been two days, it''s all in the past, do you?"

    "I didn''t think that." Lu Yanming held up a thick stack of bound A4 documents in midair. "Here, my self-reflection report."

    Li Zhen took it doubtfully and flipped it open...

    "Self-Reflection Summary Report on Disrespecting Miss Li Zhen''s Privacy."

    Li Zhen took a quick look. It was a total of 136 pages, a color printed PPT,bining text and pictures, with precise logical texts and beautiful images.

    It borated in detail on self-reflection regarding disrespect for privacy from sixteen different aspects.

    Li Zhen was stunned. "President Lu, this is..."

    Lu Yanming said, "Yes, I stayed up all night to make it."

    Li Zhen: ...

    She didn''t ask when he made it, did she?

    Lu Yanming added, "To be precise, I didn''t eat or drink for two days and nights while making it."

    Li Zhen: ...

    Can''t feel sorry for him, can''t feel guilty!

    "Can it make you less angry? Can you ept my sincerity?" Lu Yanming took a step closer, instantly shortening the distance between them. "Or, you can kick me once more, and we''ll be even, can''t we?"

    "Since I''ve hurt you, why don''t you sit down and rest?" Li Zhen was enveloped in the familiar woody fragrance, making it hard to breathe.

    Sandwiched between the door and Lu Yanming, the cramped space made her feel very unsafe.

    She felt like the man in front of her was like a big gray wolf, ready to easily tear her apart with his jaws.

    Li Zhen tried to move to the left to get around him.

    "No need to sit down, let''s talk it out first." Lu Yanming''s tall figure also moved with her, trapping her here and unable to move.

    Li Zhen was annoyed. "Let me go first, then we''ll talk."

    "You answer me first, can we be even?" Lu Yanming stubbornly lowered his head to ask her.

    When he spoke, his chest rumbled with low vibrations. They were so close that Li Zhen could even feel the frequency of his heartbeat.

    Again and again.

    Very powerful.

    Unlike her, trapped here by Lu Yanming, locked in this tiny space by his aura, her heartbeat had been erratic for some time now, both angry and annoyed.

    Li Zhen took a deep breath, forcing herself to ignore her racing heart, and said, "We can''t be even, President Lu. I may not be suitable to help you anymore. Our marriage..."

    "Hiss..." Lu Yanming suddenly let out a low sigh, bent slightly, and rested his chin on Li Zhen''s shoulder.

    Li Zhen''s whole body stiffened. "What''s wrong, President Lu?"

    Lu Yanming''s voice was low and deep. "It hurts a bit, let me rest for a moment."

    He was probably hurt where Li Zhen had kicked him earlier. Li Zhen didn''t dare to move, letting him lean on her like that.

    Where Li Zhen couldn''t see, the corners of Lu Yanming''s lips curled up slightly.

    His chin nudged and rubbed against Li Zhen''s straight, slender shoulder.

    He nestled into afortable position.

    Just leaning quietly against her like this.

    Li Zhen asked carefully, "President Lu, do you feel better now?"

    It¡¯s said that ce is the most vulnerable for men.

    Li Zhen wondered what if she really damaged him there, how could she afford to pay for it!

    Lu Yanming''s breathing grazed Li Zhen''s ears intermittently, his voice maic and powerful. "Hard to say, maybe I need to test it out to see if it still works."

    Li Zhen nodded. "Okay."

    Li Zhen agreed too readily.

    Lu Yanming was slightly surprised and straightened up to look at her, chuckling lightly. "Do you know what I mean by testing it out?"

    "Of course I know, but I don''t have a condom here. We''ll have to go downstairs to buy one first." Li Zhen looked up at him, her shockingly beautiful eyes glistening as she watched him.

    Lu Yanming couldn''t help it. He leaned down to kiss her eyes. "Alright."

    Li Zhen opened the door and carefully checked that Xiao Xiao''s door was closed before opening it wide for Lu Yanming to follow her out.

    The two of them left.

    Lu Yanming had walked two steps when there was a sudden "bang" behind him.

    He looked back.

    The empty corridor was left with only him.

    There wasn''t even a trace of Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen sent him a message from behind the door.

    [President Lu, do you take me for a 3-year-old kid to coax? You''re still wanting to "test" if it hurts? Walk slowly, don''t see you off!]

    Lu Yanming: ...

    He noticed something was off when she agreed too readily, yet he was still engrossed by her eyes.

    As expected, a beauty is misleading.

 Chapter 98: Transfer completed on the day of receiving the report

    <h4>Chapter 98</h4>

    Li Zhen bought breakfast outside the next day and walked to thepany while eating.

    When she arrived at the door, she bumped into Zhang Xiya.

    "Little Zhen Zhen." Zhang Xiya walked up to her in a few steps, grabbed her hand excitedly, and eximed in a low voice, "You were so amazingst night! So beautiful and charming!"

    Li Zhen lightly coughed twice, with a hint of pride in her tone, "It was decent."

    "Tsk tsk tsk... Just decent..." Zhang Xiya imitated Li Zhen''s tone, bumped her shoulder against hers, "Very smug huh, superstar Li."

    The two immediatelyughed together.

    After entering thepany gate, Zhang Xiya lowered her voice mysteriously again, "Oh right, you don''t know, yesterday President Yu and President Lu reimbursed everyone''s ticket money on thepany group chat. Everyone has been privately discussing that it''s because of you. Those two are being quite high-profile now..."

    Zhang Xiya was sweating for Li Zhen.

    In case someone with ulterior motives falsely reported to thepany and spread rumors that Li Zhen was having an office romance, the penalty would be huge.

    Li Zhen''s expression stiffened slightly.

    Come to think of it, it''s true that those two have been disregarding thepany''s rules more and moretely.

    Once in the elevator.

    Quite a few people had alreadye up from the basement levels 2 and 1.

    As soon as Li Zhen and Zhang Xiya entered, they saw Yu Sheng in the corner.

    Yu Sheng was wearing a ck suit, the fabric reflected extremely strong texture under the elevator lighting.

    He had one hand in his left pocket and the other holding his phone browsing messages, his posture particrly upright, standing in the corner like a halo around him, his temperament distinctly different from the others.

    Zhang Xiya and Li Zhen entered, pressed their floor, and happened to stand diagonally across from Yu Sheng.

    "Zhen Zhen, look, President Yu." Zhang Xiya whispered in Li Zhen''s ear.

    "Oh." Li Zhen didn''t so much as nce at Yu Sheng, her gaze fixed steadily on the smooth elevator wall ahead.

    "Take a look, I feel like something''s off with President Yu today, he didn''te yesterday either, do you think he''s sick?" Zhang Xiya prodded Li Zhen with her elbow.

    Li Zhen''s peripheral vision swept over him.

    Yu Sheng''splexion today looked particrly pale, even more lifeless than when she saw him at the Yu residence, his whole body emanating some indescribable frailty.

    But Li Zhen only looked for a moment before quickly withdrawing her gaze.

    In the next second after Li Zhen had looked away, Yu Sheng nced over at her.

    When they arrived at the advertising department floor, Li Zhen and Zhang Xiya exited the elevator.

    They had just sat down when Meng Yuanjie came over too.

    As soon as he saw Li Zhen he looked terribly wronged, "While everyone else enjoyed your performancest night, I had a miserable time."

    "What happened?" Li Zhen looked up at him.

    "This guy, he''s too funny." Zhang Xiya couldn''t helpughing when she recalledst night''s events, "We paid a small amount to watch a big production, he paid a lot just to work a job all night."

    Zhang Xiya was d she had left to go sit halfway through.

    Not like Meng Yuanjie, foolishly standing there for two hours.

    Li Zhen understood now.

    She remembered seeing in thepany group chatst night that Meng Yuanjie had been fined.

    "I''m speechless too, the people in thepany were so excited to see me, just because they know me, they all came to ask me whenever they wanted to use the bathroom, I was busier than the theater staff..." Meng Yuanjieined indignantly at the memory, gritting his teeth.

    Some even asked if he was doing a side gig there together with Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen was on stage performing.

    He was below as security!

    Who coulde up with such questions?

    He was at his wits'' end.

    "Why were you helping out at the theater?" Li Zhen asked.

    "Meng Changsheng is my uncle! He''s always bossing me around since I was little." Meng Yuanjie thought about it, and added, "Oh right, Li Zhen, my uncle called my dadst night, he was so happy he couldn''t stop praising you, and kept saying you''ve got what it takes to be a big star."

    Zhang Xiya was proud on Li Zhen''s behalf, excitedly saying, "Little Zhen Zhen, are you going to break into showbiz next? You''ve gotta give me advance notice if you really do, I want to be your number one fan from the beginning."

    "Don''t know, we''ll see where it goes."

    Li Zhen pursed her lips, lowering her head fiddling with her fingertips.

    -

    Around noon, after eating with Zhang Xiya and the others, Li Zhen had just left the employee cafeteria when Zhao Yan blocked her path.

    "Li Zhen."

    Zhao Yan was still holding a takeout box of food from the cafeteria, his gaze looking to the few people behind Li Zhen.

    Realizing, Zhang Xiya and the others walked ahead first.

    "Manager Zhao, did you need me for something?" Li Zhen gave a faint smile.

    But her smile was shallow, because she guessed that nine times out of ten, Zhao Yan looking for her had to do with Yu Sheng.

    "There''s something I wanted to ask your help with." Zhao Yan alsocked confidence, unsure if he should be doing this, "President Yu came to work today but has been in poor condition the whole time. We advised him to rest but he refuses to listen. Around 11am his condition got even worse, he didn''t eat either, said he had no appetite..."

    Zhao Yan nced at Li Zhen''s expression, "I was hoping you could go up and bring him a meal, so that President Yu doesn''t go hungry at least."

    shes of seeing Yu Sheng earlier in the elevator went through Li Zhen''s mind.

    Other than the necessary concealment from the Li family side, she didn''t want any more contact with Yu Sheng, let alone at thepany.

    Li Zhen pulled at her lips, gently declining with a smile, "I''m sorry, Manager Zhao, I''m quite busy with work today and don''t have much time now."

    Zhao Yan sighed lightly, disappointed, "I see."

    If he had asked any other female colleague to bring President Yu a meal, they''d be delighted.

    Yet the one person President Yu most wanted to see firmly refused without hesitation.

    Zhao Yan had walked two steps when Li Zhen''s voice sounded behind him, "When President Yu has poor appetite, tomato shrimp soup might help."

    Zhao Yan''s footsteps faltered.

    Li Zhen was so familiar with President Yu''s lifestyle and habits?

    On the way back to the office, Li Zhen received a call from Li Yinnan.

    She addressed him as "Dad", her tone a bit cold, "You and my sister are out of that shack already?"

    Li Yinnan''s intended words stuck in his throat for a moment.

    He and Li Yanran had been locked inside for a full four hours before the locksmith he had called from far away finally let them out.

    The wound on Li Yanran''s head wasn''t actually that big originally, but being stuck inside had caused it to be infected.

    A head infection was no small matter.

    Li Yanran was still lying in the hospital now.

    Li Yinnan suppressed his temper, trying his best to make his voice sound gentle over the phone, "I''m having some friends over tonight, wanted to meet Yu Sheng."

    "He has to work overtime today, no time." Li Zhen rejected outright.

    "Li Zhen, don''t be petty, how can you talk to me like this!"

    For Li Yinnan''s previous requests, Li Zhen had agreed.

    Today he had already promised those people Yu Sheng woulde.

    He didn''t expect Li Zhen to refuse.

    "Dad, ever since you said you wanted to imprison me, I probably won''t be able to talk nicely with you anymore." Li Zhen gave a lightugh, tinged with self-mockery, "I must be the first daughter whose father wanted to imprison her right?

    Li Yinnan was at a loss for words momentarily.

    That day he had acted rashly.

    He shouldn''t have torn into Li Zhen before thinking it through clearly.

    "Yu Sheng muste today." Li Yinnan''s brow furrowed, his tone steady, "Make a request, as my apology for losing my temper that day."

    Li Zhen casually said, "Sure, then change the contract to transfer the shares when I get pregnant instead of when the child is born."

    "That''s impossible!" Li Yinnan''s pitch abruptly rose.

    "Then forget it." Li Zhen hung up.

    That request was impossible from the start.

    Giving upon pregnancy would mean she''d get it months earlier.

    Li Yinnan would never be that generous to her.

    She was just casually finding an excuse to end their conversation.

    Her phone rang again.

    Li Zhen''s brow quirked slightly. She answered.

    Li Yinnan said coldly, "Fine, I agree. The shares will be transferred on the day you get a positive pregnancy test report."

 Chapter 99: How to Get Down to the Second Floor

    <h4>Chapter 99</h4>

    Li Yinnan added heavily, "But Yu Sheng muste tonight."

    The people who came today were all here after hearing about Yu Sheng and Li Zhen a few days ago, looking to build ties with the Li family.

    Li Yinnan must have Yu Sheng present.

    Li Zhen''s heart skipped a beat.

    He had actually agreed!

    That meant she could get the shares in one or two months at the earliest.

    Li Zhen almost wanted to agree right away, but then remembered how Yu Sheng had looked in the elevator earlier.

    Zhao Yan said he was not in good condition, and she didn''t know exactly what was going on with him or how serious it was.

    Li Zhen cautiously responded, "Let me ask Yu Sheng first. If hees, we''ll amend the contract. If he can''t make it, then forget it."

    After hanging up, Li Zhen immediately went to the marketing department.

    She was feeling rather uneasy.

    She had originally thought it would take a year.

    Before and even after she got pregnant, there was a possibility that Li Yinnan and Li Yanran would find out about her divorce from Yu Sheng and try to sabotage her.

    Before getting the shares, the risk would remain high.

    But now that she was pregnant, she could get the shares right away, which was like a very difficult game suddenly letting her pass straight through!

    She arrived at the door. It was lunch break now, so there weren''t many people in the marketing department.

    Li Zhen strode towards Yu Sheng''s office. When she got to the door, she happened to run into Zhao Yaning out.

    He was still holding that boxed meal.

    Zhao Yan looked startled. "Li Zhen..."

    Then his brows and eyes rxed into a smile. "You came after all!"

    Saying that, he handed the boxed meal he was holding to Li Zhen, his delighted expression vanishing in a sh as he sighed, "I just took this in to President Yu, but he still said he wouldn''t eat. I''ve ordered some tomato shrimp soup takeout that hasn''t arrived yet."

    "Give it to me, I''ll take it in." Li Zhen took the meal box and went inside.

    Yu Sheng was bowing his head looking at documents. Hearing someonee in, he thought it was still Zhao Yan and didn''t even lift his head, saying, "I won''t eat it, don''t make me say it a third time."

    "Are you made of iron or steel?" Li Zhen put the meal box on the tea table.

    Hearing her voice, a sh of astonishment crossed Yu Sheng''s eyes. He lifted his head to look at Li Zhen.

    He was silent for a moment.

    In the end, he still got up.

    He walked to the sofa and slowly sat down.

    He nced at the meal box, but really had no appetite.

    The past two days, the infection in his wound had given him a 41 degree fever. Four or five doctors had stood vigil over him for two days and three nights at Jinlu Courtyard, and his fever had just broken past midnightst night.

    This morning he had drunk some porridge.

    The dishes in this meal box were rtively light, but just looking at it made him a little nauseous.

    Li Zhen was too familiar with this subtle expression of distaste from him.

    She opened the meal box and slid it in front of Yu Sheng, then put the water ss from his desk in front of him as well.

    Yu Sheng nced at Li Zhen. With a soft sigh in his heart, he picked up his chopsticks and started eating.

    Li Zhen sat silently, carefully observing Yu Sheng''s condition. His face really was too pale, and he ate as if swallowing rocks one bite at a time.

    What exactly was wrong with him?

    If he really was sick, making him go to the Li''s when he was in such poor health could be bad if it caused his condition to worsen.

    Li Zhen thought about many things.

    The office was very quiet, neither of them speaking.

    After seven years together, they were long used to the silence.

    When Yu Sheng had eaten half, Zhao Yan pushed the door and came in, carrying a takeout order.

    He was surprised to see that Yu Sheng was actually eating, and thought to himself, I''ll be damned...

    As expected, Li Zhen could persuade him!

    Zhao Yan hid his surprise, feigningposure as he set the takeout on the tea table. "President Yu, this is the tomato shrimp soup that Li Zhen ordered for you."

    Having said that, he very tactfully turned and left.

    Li Zhen waspletely baffled!

    She had just mentioned it in passing, what was this about her ordering for Yu Sheng!

    Yu Sheng pushed aside the meal box, only drinking the shrimp soup.

    After finishing it, he looked askance at Li Zhen. "Come to deliver another love letter?"

    "What?" Li Zhen had been lost in thought, and was jolted alert hearing Yu Sheng speak. "Oh, no..."

    She reacted, remembering the only other time she hade to his office was to deliver a love letter for Jiang Kening.

    He was mocking her.

    Li Zhen stood up and pursed her lips. "I just happened to be passing by to see how you were. Since you''ve finished eating, I''ll go now."

    Forget about going to the Li''s.

    She had never seen Yu Sheng looking so weak and frail before.

    She couldn''t force a sick person to go just for her own sake.

    Although she really wanted those shares as soon as possible...

    Li Zhen walked to the door, about to leave.

    Yu Sheng also got up and walked towards his desk, his low voice saying, "Wait for me on the B2 level after work, we''ll go together."

    "Go together?" Li Zhen turned back in surprise.

    "My father called me." Yu Sheng sat down, his attention already on the documents on his desk needing his signature. He waved his hand. "Go close the door on your way out."

    Still confused, Li Zhen went out the door.

    So Yu Sheng had known from the start why she came.

    6pm.

    Lu Yanming leaned against a car door in the B2 parking level.

    His body was slightly tilted, posturenguid and rxed.

    His slender, long-fingered hand took out his phone and sent Fei Zhao a message.

    Lu Yanming: [? ]

    Fei Zhao automatically tranted his question with remarkable uracy: Where are you?

    Fei Zhao: [(Crying tiger emoji) Went out to buy coffee, line was longer than expected.]

    Lu Yanming: [? ]

    Fei Zhao understood his meaning: How much longer?

    Fei Zhao: [Two minutes, Young Master! I''m at the entrance of the building!]

    Lu Yanming put away his phone.

    From the corner of his eye, he noticed someone.

    It was Yu Sheng.

    Yu Sheng often worked overtime, while Lu Yanming was usually very punctual, so they rarely ran into each other in the parking garage.

    Noticing a gaze on him, Yu Sheng looked over and saw it was the new vice president.

    The new vice president was currently pursuing Qiao Yi, who happened to be Li Zhen''s good friend, so they might often have meals together in the future.

    Their cars were only two parking spaces apart.

    Yu Sheng walked up to his car and nodded at Lu Yanming. "President Lu."

    "President Yu is leaving work early today." Lu Yanming''s brows rose slightly, gaze as mellow as ever beneath the gold-rimmed sses.

    "I have ns tonight." Having answered, Yu Sheng then asked, "Is President Lu waiting for someone?"

    "Waiting for my assistant."

    "Assistant Fei is very capable. President Lu has a good eye for talent."

    Lu Yanming''s mouth quirked. "Not only do I have a good eye, I''m also very lucky and always manage to get the people I want."

    "Then President Lu is fortunate."

    Feeling he had made adequate small talk, Yu Sheng got into his car to wait for Li Zhen toe down.

    Carrying coffee, Fei Zhao rushed into Macro Ocean Building like a gust of wind and jabbed the elevator button.

    Ever since he had forgotten to conceal things in front of Li Zhen and she brought up Huayang Famous Family, the Young Master hadn''t scolded him, but hadn''t looked kindly on him since.

    He lived out a daily performance of the humble assistant versus the Young Master''s aloofness.

    The elevator doors opened and the employees going to the first floor streamed out, leaving the elevator empty.

    Fei Zhao got in and pressed for the B2 level, only then noticing there seemed to be someone else in the elevator who had been staring unpleasantly at him the whole time.

    He turned back and gave a start. "Miss Li?"

    "What a coincidence, Fei Zhao, Ace Detective." Li Zhen''s red lips curled in a dazzling smile.

    Hearing this form of address, Fei Zhao''s scalp tingled.

    He was done for...

    This woman really knew how to be sarcastic!

    The air in the elevator felt awkward to Fei Zhao.

    After all, he had looked into her behind her back, which was no different from surveince, so Fei Zhao couldn''t say anything when the person involved was mocking him.

    Fei Zhaoughed awkwardly, trying to get on her good side. "Miss Li, what are you doing going to B2? You live so close, why not just walk home?"

    Having said that, he hurriedly took a drink of coffee to calm his shock.

    "Looks like Ace Detective Fei didn''t investigate me today, I''m relieved." Li Zhen chuckled and nced at him, casually saying, "My ex-husband is waiting for me. We''re going back to my parents'' ce tonight."

    "Sounds good, going to your parents'' with your ex-husband..." Fei Zhao took another drink of coffee and nodded.

    The next second, coffee sprayed from his mouth...

    He eximed, "With your ex-husband?!"

    That was Yu Sheng waiting for her downstairs!

    On B2...

    Help, the Young Master was down there too!

 Chapter 100: Shall I Try

    <h4>Chapter 100</h4>

    Fei Zhao hadn''t recovered from the shock when the elevator had already stopped at the basement 2.

    The elevator opened.

    Li Zhen walked out.

    Lu Yanming''s brows furrowed slightly.

    Li Zhen shouldn''t be in the basement 2.

    Could it be that she came to see him? She had forgiven him and was willing to go back to Huayang Mengmen with him?

    Li Zhen was wearing a in white shirt. The edges of her cdon pencil skirt outlined different curves as she walked, cinching her waist slender.

    Seeing her approaching step by step, a faint curve lifted the corners of Lu Yanming''s lips.

    When Li Zhen walked to his side, he reached out his hand...

    But Li Zhen didn''t even look at him and walked right past him.

    Fei Zhao stood at the elevator entrance, didn''t dare toe over. Seeing this scene, he couldn''t bear to watch and covered his face.

    "Zhen Zhen," Lu Yanming frowned slightly and caught her wrist lightly when Li Zhen was about to walk past him, "Where are you going?"

    Li Zhen looked as if she had just noticed him. She feigned surprise and said, "Chairman Lu, you are here too? I''m going back to Li''s house with my ex-husband. Didn''t your omnipotent assistant Fei tell you?"

    Lu Yanming''s lip line slowly tensed up, and his voice sounded a little hoarse. "Ex-husband?"

    This was the first time he had heard this term from Li Zhen''s mouth.

    He thought he wouldn''t have much reaction, but unexpectedly...

    He found it very unpleasant to his ears.

    The tall and noble man seemed to be lost in thought for a moment. Li Zhen didn''t quite understand his expression.

    She just felt that she didn''t need to pretend anything in front of Lu Yanming, so she spoke more directly.

    She thought Lu Yanming would be as surprised as Fei Zhao, then reflect on theirplete monitoring of her private life.

    It also made it convenient for her to talk to him in two days about not helping him anymore and getting the divorce certificate.

    But Lu Yanming''s slightly absent-minded expression made Li Zhen''s heart hurt for a moment.

    Like dense needles.

    She involuntarily softened her tone and struggled free of his hand, "Yu Sheng is still waiting for me."

    She had just struggled free when Lu Yanming lightly held her again.

    Sitting in the car, Yu Sheng''s sharp eyes fell on Lu Yanming''s hand without warmth.

    What did they need to pull back and forth to chat?

    He retracted his gaze, took a deep breath, and suppressed the urge to get out of the car.

    Li Zhen had always erected high walls around herself, unwilling to let others explore her too much. Her childhood experiences made her feel very safe staying within her own walls, unable topletely trust or rely on anyone.

    The recent cold war with Li Zhen had already exhausted Yu Sheng. He could not interfere more with her affairs, otherwise she would be even angrier.

    Lu Yanming''s expression had returned to normal. His features under the gold-rimmed sses were deep and obscure with an indescribable dim light.

    His features were too exquisitely noble. Every expression when he spoke exuded the indifference of good upbringing and education, with a faint smile, "What President Yu can do, I can do too. Do you want me to try?"

    "I''m afraid not, Chairman Lu," Li Zhen shook off Lu Yanming''s hand for the second time.

    "Oh, what''s the matter that only President Yu can do?" Lu Yanming spoke casually.

    "There are many things that only President Yu can do," Li Zhen didn''t want to chat more with him. She passed him and walked to the passenger seat of Yu Sheng''s car.

    Yu Sheng stepped on the elerator. When he drove past Lu Yanming, he rolled down the window, "Chairman Lu, I''ll go first. By the way, your assistant has been here for a long time. Seeing you talk with Li Zhen for so long, he didn''te over."

    Li Zhen sat upright looking forward, but her side nce went to Yu Sheng in puzzlement.

    Just drive. Why stop next to Lu Yanming for a moment!

    Yu Sheng deliberately emphasized the words "very long" and "too long".

    Lu Yanming understood Yu Sheng''s warning and dissatisfaction. The corners of his lips curved up imperceptibly, his tone aloof and indifferent.

    "I have good eyesight. No need for President Yu to remind me."

    Lu Yanming''s gaze went past Yu Sheng and looked at Li Zhen in the passenger seat.

    The next second, Yu Sheng had already closed the car window and left arrogantly.

    The taillights of the Mercedes-Benz E-ss disappeared from the garage exit.

    But Lu Yanming was like an exquisite sculpture, his line of sight lingered for a long time.

    Fei Zhao walked over apprehensively, scared to death in his heart.

    What if the young master took out his anger on him!

    How frightening!

    Fei Zhao opened the rear door and gently reminded with a smile, "Young Master, let''s get in the car."

    Lu Yanming didn''t speak.

    Five secondster, he turned around and got into the car in silence.

    Fei Zhao drove the car out of the garage, "Young Master, back to Huayang Mengmen?"

    No answer came from the back seat.

    It was still silent.

    Fei Zhao looked at the back seat through the rearview mirror.

    Lu Yanming took off his sses and took out a lens wipe to carefully clean them.

    His eyes against the light were unfathomable.

    These past two days, Fei Zhao was mostly afraid that the young master would scold him for stupidly letting Li Zhen know about their matters.

    But now Fei Zhao''s mind was full of how stupid he was for messing up the young master''s affairs.

    Now Li Zhen was angry and didn''t need to cover up her matters with Yu Sheng anymore. She could casually mention Yu Sheng in front of the young master.

    She must be relieved that she didn''t need to hide anything anymore.

    But every time she openly mentioned Yu Sheng, it was like stabbing a knife into the young master''s heart!

    Fei Zhao twitched in distress. He really wanted to get out and p himself twice.

    "Young Master, do you want to check..." Fei Zhao suddenly felt the word was a little unpleasant to say, so he quickly changed it, "Do you want to see what Miss Li and him went to do?"

    There was still no reaction from the back seat.

    Fei Zhao sighed inwardly.

    The car arrived downstairs at Huayang Mengmen and more than a few minutes passed, but Lu Yanming still didn''t get out.

    Fei Zhao looked back and cautiously spoke up, "Young Master, we''ve arrived."

    Lu Yanming put on his sses. His tone was cold, "Notify the family office and the steward to prepare a detailed profile of me."

    Fei Zhao didn''t react for a moment to Lu Yanming''s intention, "Young Master, you mean the profile..."

    Lu Yanming said, "Asset details, financial statements, resume..."

    After he finished speaking, he got out of the car and left.

    Leaving Fei Zhao alone in the car in a daze.

    After a long time, he reacted. The young master is giving this to Li Zhen?

    Just because Li Zhen was dissatisfied with their investigation of her, the young master is revealing everything about himself to her?

    But this information, especially the financial reports, even if it''s the young master''s personal rather than the family''s, has always been top secret unless reporting to the old madam?

    Fei Zhao hesitated for a long time before finally calling the family office.

    The Land family''s private family office, abbreviated as FO, was a team of 200 senior financial experts managing all the assets of the Lans and their descendants.

    Lu Yanming''s personal assets included his sole proprietorships, listedpanies, stocks, inds,nd and other real estate properties. The astronomical amount and extensive scope, even FO staff would need a full day to produce aplete and urate report.

    The one who answered the call at the family office was Bourne, who had been with the Lan family for a long time.

    After the business talk, the elderly Bourne still spoke in that old disapproving manner when chatting privately, but his French ent always conveyed romantic fluctuations. "Fei, what are you doing with him in China? Why don''t youe back?"

    "Apanying the young master to pursue an ordinary woman who could not be more ordinary," Fei Zhao replied fluently in French, very calmly mocking.

    "Fei, you are still so...what''s that Chinese word...zhinan. Every girl is extraordinary, each is a unique angel..."

    Fei Zhao couldn''t help but mutter in Chinese, "Stubborn old fool..."

    "What did you say?"

    "I said you''re right."

    Fei Zhao rolled his eyes and chatted with the old guy for a few more sentences, asking the family office to prepare the report as soon as possible.

 Chapter 101: Gone to the Study

    <h4>Chapter 101</h4>

    On the other side, the Li family.

    Li Zhen was on the second floor with Old Master Li, looking down at the brightly lit living room of the vi.

    Yu Sheng apanied Li Yinnan by his side.

    He waspletely the core of this banquet, with everyoneing over to toast him in turns.

    Old Master Li was carefree, "Zhen''er, now Yinnan is using Yu Sheng''s fame to develop the Li family business. But when your divorce from Yu Sheng bes public, then your father..."

    "Grandpa, that''s not something I should worry about. He wanted to rely on Yu Sheng to win over these businesses early on, so he should have considered the worst possible oue," Li Zhen said indifferently. The lights shone brightly on her pretty face.

    Li Yinnan had never paid any attention to her from when she was little to when she grew up.

    And now he wanted to rely on her to bring the Li family up another level?

    Old Master Li sighed in his heart.

    He didn''t want to interfere in the matters of the younger generation anymore. The mistakes his son made back then would have to be repaid one day. Whether the oue was good or bad would be decided by time.

    After a while, Li Zhen sent Old Master Li back to his room.

    She looked around. The hustle and bustle was all in the living room and no one would notice her. She walked upstairs towards Li Yinnan and Lin Zhiyin''s study.

    The door of the study was closed.

    With a "click" Li Zhen easily opened it. She looked left and right to make sure no one was around, then went in and closed the door behind her.

    Li Yanran had previously said Lin Zhiyin had a video of their mother.

    It would either be stored on theputer in the study, or it would be made into a CD or tape and also kept in the study.

    Li Zhen first turned on theputer, but there was a password.

    She tried some possible numberbinations but they were all wrong.

    She could only give up on that.

    She searched through the bookshelves and drawers, carefully looking at thebels on them.

    In the living room, Li Yinnan had drunk quite a lot of red wine. His face was flushed and he was spirited.

    The contracts signed over the past two days were far more than those signed over the past two years.

    Li Yinnan was engaged in an animated discussion with someone next to him.

    Yu Sheng nced at the two immersed in conversation. He inconspicuously left the living room and went out to the balcony.

    He put down his wine ss on the small tea table, sat down on the recliner, and rested his forehead on his hand.

    The alcohol brought a numbing heaviness. His temples throbbed violently. His stomach felt nauseous like he wanted to vomit. The whip scars on his back and chest stung sharply.

    "Brother-inw." Li Yanran''s tender voice sounded.

    Yu Sheng frowned in irritation and nced at her indifferently.

    Li Yanran handed over a ss of water and gently said, "Brother-inw, I just had the kitchen specially make this sobering tea for you."

    "No need." Yu Sheng''s gaze was far too cold.

    It was alright, he just didn''t know her good intentions, Li Yanranforted herself.

    She forced herself to reveal an ingratiating smile again, "Brother-inw, have a sip, I can see you''re quite ufortable."

    She bent over slightly and put the ss of water on the small tea table.

    At the same time, she deliberately pulled down the neckline of her dress slowly, intentionally bringing her ample cleavage into Yu Sheng''s view.

    He had been drinking, and such a spring scene wouldn''t be ignored by a drunk man.

    Li Yanran was feeling pleased with herself.

    But then she heard a "bleh" sound...

    Seeing it made Yu Sheng feel sick with anger, and he couldn''t help but threw up.

    He vomited right onto Li Yanran''s chest.

    That was Li Yanran''s proudest asset.

    But now...

    "Ah!" Li Yanran''s face twisted. The sticky, filthy feeling nearly drove her crazy.

    She lifted her skirt and rushed upstairs.

    After throwing up, Yu Sheng''s stomach felt much more rxed, but his head grew heavier and heavier.

    In the living room, Li Yinnan saw Li Yanran run upstairs without regard for appearances. He called the butler over, "What''s wrong with Yanran?"

    "Her dress got dirty. The young miss went upstairs to change," the butler respectfully replied.

    Li Yinnan nodded and waved his hand to indicate he could leave.

    But the butler didn''t go, his gaze hesitant.

    Li Yinnan looked at him, "Anything else?"

    The butler hesitated for two seconds before saying in a low voice, "The young miss went to the study just now..."

    Li Yinnan''s eyebrows furrowed and he strode upstairs.

    His heart rapidly sank.

    There were that woman''s belongings in the study.

    If she had be suspicious and went to look for the video...

    A trace of coldness shed through Li Yinnan''s eyes.

    When he got to the study door,

    he pushed it open with force.

    Sure enough.

    Li Zhen was inside!

    But she was currently leisurely lying on the couch, holding a te of fruit in her hand, reading while eating.

    She was even reading the romance novels Li Yanran left in the study. The gaudy cover hadrge font titles like "The Cold CEO Fell Madly in Love with Me".

    "Dad, why did youe to the study when you have guests to entertain downstairs?" Hearing the noise, Li Zhen put down her book, revealing her puzzled gaze.

    Li Yinnan''s expression rxed a little. He rebuked, "Why are you reading this stuff? There are some books on finance, you should read more of those."

    In the future when Yu Sheng takes over the Yu Group, Li Zhen would also need some financial knowledge to help the Li family influence things.

    "Those books give me a headache just looking at them." Li Zhen picked up the book again and hid her face behind it.

    That was close.

    She heard Li Yanran noisily go upstairs, so she guessed Li Yinnan would notice the movement upstairs.

    She was about to leave the study when she just happened to hear the heavy, urgent footsteps of a man.

    If she hadn''t reacted quickly, once Li Yinnan became suspicious and vignt, it would be difficult for her to find her mother''s video again.

    "Since you can''t get into the finance books, then don''t read them. Come downstairs with me, you should also meet some of my business associates." Li Yinnan said heavily.

    Li Zhen got up and took out the contract from her bag, "Dad, since we''re in the study already, let''s revise the contract."

    Li Yinnan wouldn''t go back on his word, so he turned and used his fingerprint to open the safe, taking out the contract.

    Li Zhen took this second to quickly nce inside it.

    Li Yinnan''s safe was very big, nearly a man''s height tall. Aside from arge amount of cash and gold taking up half the space, there were also some documents and another small box.

    Li Zhen had just noticed the small box when Li Yinnan closed the safe door.

    The process went very smoothly. Li Zhen took the revised contract and put it in her bag, "Dad, it''s gettingte, Yu Sheng and I will go first."

    Li Yinnan''s eyebrows furrowed, "You got the contract and now you''re leaving just like that?"

    "Yu Sheng is unwell today. He''s been here apanying you for an hour already, that''s enough." Li Zhen shouldered her bag and headed downstairs.

    Li Yinnan didn''t try to stop her either.

    Yu Sheng making an appearance and greeting almost everyone was already sufficient.

    Li Zhen went downstairs but didn''t see him around. She looked around and discovered he was on the balcony.

    He had fallen asleep.

    The sound of music and chatter were interwoven in the living room.

    Yu Sheng was sleeping soundly on the balcony. His tall body was squeezed onto the recliner. His handsome face was slightly flushed, probably from the alcohol taking effect.

    "Yu Sheng, let''s go." Li Zhen called out.

    The person on the recliner didn''t react.

    Li Zhen went over and pushed him, "Yu Sheng..."

    When she got close, she realized something was off. Yu Sheng''s face was too red.

    Li Zhen touched his forehead. It was burning hot.

 Chapter 102: The One with the best Luck Goes.

    <h4>Chapter 102</h4>

    Li Zhen called out twice more before Yu Sheng finally opened his deep, dark eyes. ¡°Li Zhen?¡±

    ¡°We can go now.¡± Li Zhen straightened up.

    Yu Sheng¡¯s head ached and his consciousness was not yet fully clear.

    Hey in the chair, gazing up at Li Zhen.

    The moonlight was exceptionally beautiful tonight. Lost in a daze, it was as if he had returned to his college days.

    On those hot summer nights, on the asions they didn¡¯t go to the library in the evenings, they would go to thewn by theke.

    Li Zhen liked to sit with her hands propped behind her, craning her slender neck to gaze at the bright moon and stars in the sky.

    He would lie there, a de of grass in his mouth, hands cradling his head, eyes ncing sidelong as the gentle moonlight hugged Li Zhen, cloaking her in a thin veil of white light.

    He could stare at her, clear and unabashed.

    Gaze at the contour of her profile, her petite earlobes, her pert nose.

    Yu Sheng breathed a soft sigh.

    It had been so long since he had looked properly at Li Zhen. Had he really been wrong to devote too much energy to his work?

    In the past, he had wanted to excel in his own right, to help his mother understand Li Zhen was not a burden to him, but rather his greatest spiritual support.

    But now he didn¡¯t need his mother¡¯s approval of Li Zhen, nor for her to see his hard work and ambition.

    These past three years.

    He had not stopped for a single day, like a precisely calibrated instrument.

    ¡°Li Zhen, I¡¯m a little tired, I want to rest for a while...¡± On Yu Sheng¡¯s handsome, resolute face appeared a hint of fatigue, his tone stillzy from the alcohol.

    He should set aside more time for her.

    Li Zhen thought he was talking about the tedious socializing at tonight''s banquet. ¡°Thank you for tonight, Yu Sheng. You worked hard. We can leave now.¡±

    Li Zhen''s tone was polite and detached, as if speaking to a passing stranger who had casually helped her.

    But Yu Sheng did not detect anything amiss.

    The two left the hall and went to the parking lot. Li Zhen got into the driver''s seat.

    Yu Sheng stood outside the car, perplexed as he looked at her.

    Li Zhen buckled her seatbelt. ¡°You have a fever, it¡¯s unsafe for you to drive. I¡¯ll do it.¡±

    Yu Sheng said nothing as he got into the passenger seat.

    As the car started, Yu Sheng got a phone call.

    He turned on the hands-free Bluetooth.

    Yu Yang''s anxious voice came through the speakers. ¡°Bro, where did you go? Are you working overtime again?¡±

    Yu Yang had just gone to Jinlu Garden and was shocked to find his brother had gone back to work right after taking two days off for a high fever. He was even more shocked that he still wasn¡¯t home so long after getting off work.

    Yu Sheng: ¡°The Li family had a banquet tonight. I''m at their house.¡±

    Yu Yang¡¯s tone suddenly grew louder. ¡°A banquet? But you¡¯re sick...¡±

    Yu Sheng¡¯s brow furrowed as he instantly turned off the Bluetooth.

    He continued the conversation on his phone, listening to Yu Yang''s nagging.

    ¡°Okay...I know, I''m on my way back now... Fine...¡±

    Li Zhen didn''t pay much attention to the brothers'' conversation.

    But when Yu Sheng suddenly disconnected the hands-free, it made her nce over at him subconsciously.

    -

    The advertising department was especially busy over the next few days.

    Sales of SCC''s new collection were skyrocketing.

    During lunch break, Zhang Xiya was so tired she barely had the energy to eat. ¡°I shot three sets of photos just this morning! Going nonstop between changing clothes, makeup, sets, shooting locations...I''m exhausted.¡±

    ¡°I''m the same way,¡± Meng Yuanjieined.

    Li Zhen nced at them. ¡°Don''t try to sell your sob story when you just got a windfall. Weren¡¯t you two secretly calcting how much extra you¡¯ll make in bonuses this month?¡±

    ¡°No conflict, no conflict. Loving money and loving toin aren''t mutually exclusive,¡± Meng Yuanjie chuckled.

    ¡°You know, ever since our new collection blew up, tons of celebrities are moring to be the new spokesperson,¡± Zhang Xiya started gossiping.

    Qiao Yi chimed in after taking a sip of soup, ¡°I heard they already selected the spokesperson.¡±

    It was just for the collection, not the overall brand spokesperson.

    But for celebrities, SCC was Haihai Group''s luxury line. These lucrative opportunities were highly desirable.

    ¡°Also...¡± Qiao Yi leaned in and lowered her voice. ¡°I heard they chose a famous actress and a trending starlet. And that starlet only got in by bribing one of our execs.¡±

    ¡°Which exec?¡± Meng Yuanjie asked, intrigued.

    ¡°That I don¡¯t know,¡± Qiao Yi shook her head, then smiled and added, ¡°Whenever thepany gets a new collection spokesperson, it means sales will explode. Those times make me happiest since I make the most money.¡±

    ¡°We make more but work harder too. After we power through the next few days, let¡¯s splurge and go somewhere nice to unwind,¡± Meng Yuanjie smiled as well.

    The mention sparked a thought in Qiao Yi and she took out her phone.

    Li Zhen was sitting right next to Qiao Yi. From the corner of her eye, she inadvertently got a clear view of the screen.

    It showed every expense Qiao Yi had made recently, as well as the ad shoots she had done the past two days and the estimated bonuses she would earn.

    Li Zhen felt a twinge in her heart and gently said to Qiao Yi, ¡°Anyway, don''t try to tough things out yourself if you need any help.¡±

    Qiao Yi was deeply moved but maintained a smile. ¡°Don''t worry, don''t worry...¡±

    -

    In the afternoon, Ren Zongshun gathered everyone for a meeting.

    In the advertising department conference room, Ren Zongshun cleared his throat. ¡°Let¡¯s have a quick meeting to arrange something.¡±

    ¡°As you all know, we recently got two new collection spokespersons. Someone from the ad department needs to be on set to liaise with the talent.¡±

    ¡°It won¡¯t take long, just a few days.¡±

    ¡°And it¡¯s prettyidback. You just sit there on set,municatepany-rted matters with the talent, that¡¯s it.¡±

    ¡°Who¡¯s willing to go?¡±

    After Ren Zongshun finished, there was dead silence below.

    The leader made it sound nice by saying it was liaising, but in reality most celebrities had haughty temperaments.

    They would treat this liaison role as a personal assistant thepany had provided them, and order them around.

    No one wanted to do this kind of job.

    Most importantly, this was the busiest time with the most ad shoots, meaning the highest bonuses.

    Going to wait on celebrities meant a huge pay cut.

    Ren Zongshun expected no one to volunteer, ¡°Then let¡¯s grab a red envelope. Whoever has the best luck goes.¡±

    Below, everyone started moaning.

    Ren Zongshun sent a red envelope in the department group chat. Everyone reluctantly clicked to open it.

    Zhang Xiya rubbed her hands greedily. ¡°Please, please, let all my bad luck go into this red envelope. Let me open the smallest amount!¡±

    She closed one eye and grimaced as she tapped the envelope.

    ¡°Yes! One cent!¡± Zhang Xiya was so happy she nearly jumped up.

 Chapter 103: Shall I Pick it up

    <h4>Chapter 103</h4>

    Meng Yuanjie drew two cents.

    Li Zhen tapped open, it was also one cent. Fortunately, fortunately, she didn¡¯t want to work hard for money.

    Zhang Xiya caught a glimpse of Li Zhen''s phone and threw her a look, "Finally it''s not you again. You¡¯ve encountered all the recent bad luck."

    Just as Zhang Xiya finished speaking, Qiao Yi''s brows tightened next to her, "Oh no..."

    The other three looked at her phone.

    The striking eighty-nine cents, along with "Best Luck"...

    Qiao Yi held her phone tightly, murmuring to herself: "Howe it¡¯s me this time!"

    It just so happened to be when she needed money the most recently, she originally wanted to earn more over the next few days.

    Qiao Yi''s voice was very soft, almost only she could hear it.

    But Li Zhen had very good hearing and heard it loud and clear.

    Ren Zongshun had already announced, "Alright, then Qiao Yi will go."

    As soon as Ren Zongshun finished speaking, Li Zhen stood up and said, "Manager, can I apply to go? The celebrity thepany invited this time, I''m her fan."

    Zhang Xiya, Qiao Yi, and Meng Yuanjie were all stunned.

    Ren Zongshun also agreed quickly, "So you''re Lu Na¡¯s fan? Sure, thepany is still very humane. Then you can go."

    Lu Na!

    Everyone was excited when they heard the name.

    She was a queen of acting!

    Although everyone didn''t want to be ordered around by celebrities, it didn''t prevent them from getting excited when they heard about the big star!

    After the meeting, Zhang Xiya finally reacted, "Zhen Zhen, you really are Lu Na¡¯s fan..."

    Li Zhen''s red lips slightly curled up, her eyebrows slightly arched, "Yes, I''ve liked her for a long time."

    Qiao Yi hesitantly asked, "Really? It¡¯s not because of me, right..."

    "Really." Li Zhen patted Qiao Yi on the shoulder, her expression very serious, "This is my only chance to get close to my idol, don''t grab it from me!"

    Only then did Qiao Yi believe her and breathed a sigh of relief.

    If Li Zhen had really done it for her sake, she wouldn''t have let Li Zhen rece her.

    -

    The next day, Li Zhen went to the film and television city early in the morning.

    For this shoot with the two artists, Macro Ocean had rented arge studio at the film and television city.

    Almost everyone from the advertising department had alsoe over, and the print models from thepany would also use the sets here over the next few days.

    When Li Zhen arrived, the first people she saw were her colleagues from the advertising department, eating the breakfast provided by thepany at the door of the photography studio.

    Zhang Xiya was nibbling on an ear of corn and drinking porridge when she suddenly heard her colleagues inhale in shock.

    What happened? Zhang Xiya looked up curiously.

    Oh, it was her good friend Li Zhen who had arrived.

    Zhang Xiya only took a nce before withdrawing her gaze and continued to seriously nibble while murmuring unclearly: "Little Zhen Zhen, so early..."

    Wait, something wasn''t right.

    Zhang Xiya looked at Li Zhen again.

    This time, Zhang Xiya''s mouth fell open in shock, her jaw nearly hitting the ground.

    "Morning, everyone." Li Zhen''s eyes filled withughter.

    Everyone eating breakfast gaped at her, each with their mouths open wider than thest.

    "You, you, you, you..." Zhang Xiya looked Li Zhen up and down.

    Li Zhen wore a pair of white low heels, her slender legs straight into a rather wide midi skirt, the waist outlined her alluring curves.

    On top she wore a white spaghetti strap tank top, with a short-sleeved chiffon jacket over it.

    She had put on lipstick today, a rare asion for her who seldom wore makeup, making her lips a dazzling red.

    It made her look so beautiful it took one''s breath away!

    Li Zhen usually behaved low-key and didn''t like to dress up. Also, as a hand model, she wouldn''t wear full make-up like the others who did print modeling.

    Thest time they saw her on stage in the y, the stage effects required exaggerated makeup, she looked beautiful but it only made people associate her with the role of the green snake, not Li Zhen herself.

    But today, just a little dressed up, Li Zhen''s beauty was striking, with a huge visual impact. She looked even more dazzling than stars on the big screen, and more eye-catching.

    Even Ren Zongshun regretted it.

    What a waste of talent!

    Li Zhen not doing full body modeling was simply a waste!

    "Li Zhen, today you are... going on a blind date? Dressing up like this?" Meng Yuanjie was so shocked that he felt his heart racing.

    For a moment he couldn''t tell if it was shock at her beauty.

    Or if he suddenly saw this good friend as a woman!

    "Since today I''m representing thepany externally after all, of course I can''t dress like usual." Li Zhen slightly lifted her chin and smiled back.

    She didn''t want to be ordered around like the previous employees who worked with celebrities.

    So she had raised her status today in advance.

    Meng Yuanjie clutched his chest and said to the still dazed Qiao Yi next to him: "Qiao Yi, what should I do, my heart is beating so fast, I think I''ve fallen in love with Li Zhen."

    Qiao Yi came back to her senses and earnestly reminded him, "Are you sure? Your rivals are Chairman Lu and Chairman Yu..."

    Meng Yuanjie instantly sobered up, "Forget it, forget it, I can''tpete."

    In an instant Meng Yuanjie dismissed any ideas he had, his heart calm as still water, and Li Zhen was just a good buddy again in his eyes.

    He was joking,peting with the leaders of those huge conglomerates for a woman, with the means those who could climb to high positions in big business groups at a young age had...

    Meng Yuanjie still cherished his life.

    Li Zhen greeted everyone and left her bag in the break room before going to the parking lot outside the film and television city to wait for the two celebrities.

    Li Zhen waited from nine in the morning until the first car finally arrivedte at ten o''clock.

    Li Zhen double checked the license te number and walked up as soon as the car stopped.

    The car door opened, the assistant carrying bags big and small, opened the rear door for the artist.

    As the celebrity in the car alighted, both were stunned.

    Li Zhen knew one of them was Lu Na, but didn''t expect the person Qiao Yi said stuffed money to a certainpany leader to get in was Dong Wanwan.

    Dong Wanwan''s eyes were full of surprise, her brows furrowed, why was it Li Zhen!

    She looked Li Zhen up and down, seeing her even more stunning attire than usual, she immediately felt unhappy in her heart, cursing inwardly that she was a foxy woman.

    Li Zhen was also very surprised, but couldn''t show it.

    "Thepany arranged me to liaise with you this time, Miss Dong, let''s go." Li Zhen curved her eyes and smiled lightly.

    Dong Wanwan choked on Li Zhen''s words.

    Li Zhen usually called her by her full name, but today hearing "Miss Dong" didn''t sound pleasing to her ears.

    Before Dong Wanwan could speak, her assistant Ai Ru unceremoniously shoved the things in her hands to Li Zhen.

    Ai Ru scolded, "How can you be so oblivious, help carry stuff, are you blind!"

    "Sorry, Macro Ocean Group paid your party a fee, we have no obligation to provide additional manpower. " Li Zhen had a thin smile in her eyes, but her attitude left no room for rebuttal, "So please understand, I only represent thepany to liaise with you on relevant matters, not a little assistant Macro Ocean assigned to you."

    As she spoke, Li Zhen smiled and handed the stuff that was forcibly shoved back.

    If the other party had asked nicely within reason, she could have helped a bit. She didn''t expect her prediction to be right, the people she encountered this time were clearly used to being overbearing.

    Ai Ru took them, stunned for a moment, and subconsciously looked at Dong Wanwan beside her.

    Usually when someone took an attitude with Dong Wanwan in front of her, Dong Wanwan would scold them. After all, she had Zhou Chaowen backing her up.

    Zhou Chaowen''s Wenfang Video had huge traffic, now everyone in the entertainment industry would give Zhou Chaowen face.

    So Dong Wanwan naturally lived arrogantly andfortably.

    But today she didn''t react.

    Instead, Dong Wanwan red at Ai Ru, "What are you staring for, pick it up, do you expect me to pick it up?"

    Dong Wanwan didn''t want to argue with Li Zhen in public, because she would likely lose nine out of ten times.

 Chapter 104: Didnâ€™t Notice you were going to Sit Down.

    <h4>Chapter 104</h4>

    Ai Ru reluctantly picked it up again and asked Li Zhen curiously, "Sister, what position do you hold at Honghai Group?"

    She has such an arrogant attitude!

    Li Zhen smiled and said, "I''m currently serving as the spokesperson and image ambassador with full authority to handle externalmunications for Honghai Group, and am fully responsible for liaising with artists regarding the group."

    Of course she wouldn''t say that she was just a small role sent by thepany to cate artists.

    It was just for the convenience of artists to easily find someone from Honghai to connect with anytime.

    Ai Ru was stunned, then took another look at the elegant woman in front of her and asked, "May I have your surname?"

    "I''m Li Zhen of the Li family."

    "Ms. Li, please ept my apologies for my rudeness earlier."

    "It''s fine, I''m very forgiving..."

    Ai Ru: ...You''re quite direct.

    Dong Wanwan rolled her eyes to the side. She knew Li Zhen''s background - this was just a small hand model sent out by thepany. If she didn''t know Li Zhen''s details, she would have believed her.

    Just then, another car slowly pulled over.

    Li Zhen nced at the license te. This should be Lu Na.

    After the car stopped, a tall but very youngdy got out. She hurriedly took a sun umbre, carefully opened the back door, and held the umbre high to wait for the person in the car.

    A pair of high heels stepped on the ground. Lu Na got out of the car, her chin slightly raised, her gaze sweeping past everyone with a scrutinizing look.

    With such a condescending attitude, Dong Wanwan directly rolled her eyes.

    Li Zhen pretended not to see it and went up to greet her, "Hello Ms. Lu Na, I''m Li Zhen from Honghai."

    "Hello." Lu Na only extended a tiny fingertip to lightly shake hands with Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen: ...

    With such arrogance, she really lives up to being a queen of acting.

    Lu Na''s eyes lingered on Li Zhen, looking at her with a condescending gaze. Beautiful women naturally feel hostile towards other women who attract more attention than themselves.

    Lu Na retracted her gaze and spoke in the tone of an old Buddhist monk, "Let''s go..."

    Only someone like Li Zhen could handle this - if it was anyone else, they might subconsciously respond with "Oh, Old Monk".

    Li Zhen led everyone to a nearby hotel.

    Dong Wanwan and Lu Na would both be staying at the hotel nearby these days. Honghai was always generous and booked a 5-star hotel for them.

    Lu Na had far more luggage than Dong Wanwan. From the corner of her eye, Li Zhen saw Lu Na''s assistant dragging four suitcases, with severalrge bags on her shoulders as well.

    Although the girl looked about six feet tall, she still seemed to be struggling.

    Li Zhen deliberately slowed down two steps and walked to the girl''s side, gripping the handle of one of the suitcases. "Let me take one for you."

    "No need, no need." The girl quickly shook her head, gripping the suitcase without letting go. She grinned and said, "I can handle it, thank you."

    "What''s your name? I''m Li Zhen." Li Zhen instantly felt great affection for this tall girl.

    "Xu Qian." Xu Qian looked at Li Zhen sincerely with her big eyes.

    Li Zhen nodded and went back to lead the way.

    She walked at the very front of the group, her white stiletto heels stepping lightly and elegantly.

    Lu Na let out a snort and said to Xu Qian, "Remember to tell Honghai''s peopleter that I don''t like this woman. Have them change the liaison for me."

    "But she seems quite nice. If we change for no reason, it''ll cause trouble for her, right?" Xu Qian pursed her lips.

    "You actually talk back to me!" Lu Na''s brows furrowed tightly, not expecting her assistant to speak up for that woman ahead.

    Lu Na raised her hand gracefully, but used force with her fingertips to poke Xu Qian''s forehead. "Are you her assistant or mine!"

    Lu Na and Xu Qian fell behind the others by a short distance.

    But it wasn''t exactly quiet.

    The few people ahead turned back to look.

    Dong Wanwanmented in a low voice without much expression, "Just like the rumors online say, this is how she acts in private."

    Li Zhen couldn''t stand watching any longer and walked over to the two.

    Seeing Li Zhen''s manner, Dong Wanwanughed and said, "Huh, who does she think she is, able to meddle in everything? She thinks she can control Lu Na too?"

    Dong Wanwan crossed her arms, standing in ce with Ai Ru to watch the show.

    Right as Li Zhen approached, Lu Na red over fiercely. "Don''t rush me, I''m teaching my assistant something. Didn''t you see?"

    "Ms. Lu Na, please feel free to continue if you don''t mind your current behavior being uploaded online." Li Zhen said unhurriedly.

    Lu Na''s expression turned cold. "What do you mean? Are you threatening me?"

    "No, Ms. Lu Na, you misunderstood. To your left rear, there is a sneaky man holding up a video camera..." Li Zhen didn''t finish her sentence.

    Lu Na''s expression worsened even more. She coughed and resumed her gentle, graceful demeanor. "Let''s go, stop standing around."

    Li Zhen smiled and gestured, "This way..."

    Lu Na went ahead. Xu Qian was grateful to Li Zhen for helping her out of the situation.

    Dong Wanwan was somewhat disappointed for not seeing the drama she was hoping for.

    Li Zhen led everyone to the hotel to put their things down, then apanied them to the makeup room in the photography studio.

    After Lu Na and Dong Wanwan''s shoots were done, Li Zhen finally got her moment to shine. She could sit in a lounge chair in the studio, drinking milk tea she had just gone out to buy.

    Her colleagues in the advertising department looked on enviously.

    Therge studio had many different sets, and the models from the advertising department never stopped moving, always busy.

    Against Li Zhen''s leisurely appearance, it made everyone else not even want to keep working hard to earn money. They could only feel jealous.

    Thest time someone from thepany was arranged to liaise with artists was Lin Si. She was puzzled and asked, "How can Li Zhen rx and sit there? Were these two artists very easy to deal with?"

    Zhang Yucui sat nearby waiting for her next ty shoot and said, "She''s got backers, of course she can do whatever she wants. Maybe the higher-ups at thepany spoke to the artists so they can''t boss her around."

    "You''re implying something there..." Lin Si turned to look at her.

    Zhang Yucui didn''t say any more.

    Ever since she was cornered by Li Zhen and Lu Yanming at the hotelst time, she hadn''t slept well for a single day since.

    And now Xiao Tai was also uncontactable, she didn''t know what was going on.

    Recently at thepany, Zhang Yucui avoided talking whenever possible. She also kept her distance from Li Zhen, Qiao Yi and the others, afraid to provoke them in case they brought up things about her and Xiao Tai in the past.

    When Lin Si didn''t hear a response for a long time, she didn''t ask further.

    But she felt unhappy inside.

    Why was it thatst time she was ordered around to exhaustion by the celebrity she was liaising for the ad shoot, yet Li Zhen could be so rxed?

    Feeling unbnced, Lin Si walked over to Li Zhen''s side. "Li Zhen, everyone''s busy working, why are you the only one cking off here?"

    "We each have our roles. I finished my tasks, of course I can sit..."

    Lin Si nced at the chair next to Li Zhen, and said as she sat down, "Then I''ll also..."

    She had just made a sound when she plopped down,nding heavily on the ground.

    The chair under her vanished into thin air?

    "Ah!"

    Lin Si''s buttocks mmed painfully onto the floor.

    Looking back, it was Fei Zhao casually lifting up the chair in his hand, ring at her. "Sorry, didn''t notice you were about to sit down."

    Lin Si grimaced in pain from her sore bottom.

    He was clearly lying through his teeth. How could he possibly have not seen her about to sit? He did that on purpose.

    But Lin Si didn''t dare say more.

    Because standing behind Fei Zhao was Mr. Lu.

 Chapter 105: Thatâ€™s it. Nice guy.

    <h4>Chapter 105</h4>

    Lin Si hurriedly got up, tidied up her emotions, and smiled gently and charmingly, "President Lu..."

    Lu Yanming coldly and cleanly interrupted, "Go busy yourself."

    Lin Si''s original intention to build a better rtionship with Lu Yanming was abruptly stopped.

    She reluctantly left.

    After walking a few steps, she looked back. Assistant Fei put the chair down and President Lu sat next to Li Zhen.

    Lu Yanming was dressed in a light gray suit, noble and cold, with a mellow temperament like an aloof flower on a high mountain that could never be picked by anyone.

    But at this moment, sitting together with the carefully dressed Li Zhen, he was shockingly well-matched.

    When Lu Yanming came in, he was silent, but his presence was like a maic field. The people in the studio who were busy couldn''t help but look at him.

    They were allmenting that Li Zhen, who couldzily lounge about at this moment, was the only one in the advertising department who could be with him.

    "Li Zhen is so miserable, President Lu must have scolded her..."

    "I guess so. President Lu is talking to Li Zhen, and Li Zhen''s expression is clearly evasive."

    "I can read their lips. President Lu is scolding Li Zhen."

    Zhang Xiya, who was nearby looking for clothes to change into for the next set, just shook her head as she listened.

    My sisters really don''t have much experience!

    -

    Li Zhen held her milk tea and slowly drank it, her body unconsciously leaning to the other side, trying to stay away from Lu Yanming.

    Lu Yanming''s presence was always strong. With his broad shoulders and long legs, his height of nearly 1.9 meters sitting next to her invaded her with a faint woody scent.

    "Why don''t you answer?" Lu Yanming''s low voice was surprisingly clear in the noisy studio.

    "President Lu, I''m very busy and have no time." Li Zhen originally thought that by staying silent, he could understand what she meant.

    She didn''t expect that he would continue to ask.

    She was even more surprised that as soon as he sat down, he would directly ask her if she could go home with him because he had something to show her.

    "You seem quite free now, drinking milk tea, doesn''t seem like you have no time." Lu Yanming said with a teasing smile.

    Li Zhen cleared her throat. "President Lu, I didn''t want to say this so bluntly. I wanted to set aside time to discuss this with you privately someday, but since you''ve asked me, I have no choice but to be straightforward. About the fake marriage to help you... "

    Lu Yanming gently interrupted in a soft voice, self-deprecating with a shallowugh, "It''s okay, if you''re dissatisfied with anything about the fake marriage, just mention it. As long as you don''t divorce, that''s fine. Of course, I believe you won''t stop helping me to the end, after all, I''m not good with words, and I don''t have any female friends. Apart from you, no one else is willing to help me..."

    Li Zhen: ...

    "If you don''t help me anymore, I will be forced into an arranged marriage by my family and forced to marry someone I don''t love. I will live a hopeless marriage. Such a life is no different from hell..." Lu Yanming coughed and there was a hint of indescribable sadness in his eyes behind the gold-rimmed sses. "Such a life, how is it different from the human purgatory..."

    Li Zhen: ...

    Lu Yanming is excellent, but he does seem to have little interaction with other girls.

    Li Zhen wanted to talk about divorce, but the words were stuck in her throat.

    Assistant Fei picked his ears.

    It''s a great loss to the performing arts industry that the young master doesn''t act.

    He couldn''t stand to listen anymore, it was too cheesy.

    He took out his phone and yed games instead.

    "But you using me to shield yourself from your family is not a long-term solution..." Li Zhen pursed her lips, feeling conflicted inwardly.

    She was angry that he had secretly investigated her, but he had also sincerely stayed up all night to make a PPT to apologize, and it seemed difficult to stay angry after so long that she had almost forgotten about it.

    But to disregard the past and continue helping him seemed like a bottomless pit, there was no telling how long she would have to help him.

    Lost in thought, the straw of Li Zhen''s milk tea suddenly poked her on the nose.

    A white dot of milk was stuck on the tip of her nose.

    Just as Li Zhen was about to wipe it off, Lu Yanming had already raised his hand. His distinct knuckles lightly wiped away the milk stain with captivating warmth.

    "Zhen Zhen, it could also be a long-term solution."

    Li Zhen was stunned for a moment. By the time Lu Yanming retracted his hand and wiped his fingertips clean with a tissue, she reacted to what he meant by those words.

    Li Zhen hurriedly said, "President Lu, you may not be wanted, but I am wanted!"

    She will have her baby in the future, and her grandpa will always be with her, not like the lonely Lu Yanming!

    As soon as Li Zhen finished speaking, it seemed like the man in front of her eyes suddenly turned cold for an instant.

    But she wasn''t sure if it was her imagination.

    Because it onlysted a second.

    One secondter, the Lu Yanming in front of her was gentle and smiling again, aloof and indifferent. "Zhen Zhen, who are you referring to that wants you?"

    "President Yu?" he asked.

    Just as Li Zhen was about to answer no, her phone suddenly rang.

    Zhang Xiya: ¡¾Ancestor! Go flirt somewhere else!¡¿

    Zhang Xiya: ¡¾The photo of President Lu wiping your nose has been captured by those quick-handed freaks! It''s been spread to the Macho Feast chat group! ¡¿

    Zhang Xiya: ¡¾The group has exploded!¡¿

    What!

    Li Zhen''s heart suddenly started beating wildly.

    She had spent too much private time with Lu Yanming and was used to interacting with him. She didn''t react in time to avoid suspicion just now!

    Zhang Xiya sent her screenshots of the chat in the group.

    ¡¾It''s confirmed! Family!¡¿

    ¡¾Sis, this candid shot is perfect, so beautiful.¡¿

    ¡¾They''re a perfect match indeed!¡¿

    ¡¾Why am I never online for the first-hand gossip!¡¿

    ¡¾No, my President Lu! I won''t ept him belonging to anyone!¡¿

    Then there were a few messages from Zhang Xiya in the group.

    Zhang Xiya: ¡¾Actually, President Lu cares about all subordinates very much. President Lu has also wiped my nose before, very normal, very normal.¡¿

    Zhang Xiya:¡¾President Lu is just that nice.¡¿

    Zhang Xiya inwardly: She has to go all out for little Zhen Zhen to avoid office romance rumors.

    But the stream of unified responses below were:

    ¡¾President Lu wiped your nose? Don''t believe it.¡¿

    ¡¾Don''t believe it.¡¿

    ¡¾Don''t believe it +1...¡¿

    ¡¾Xiya, President Lu wiped your nose? That would be such a beautiful picture, I dare not imagine!¡¿

    Zhang Xiya: ...

    The damage was minor, but the insult was extreme.

    Why can''t President Lu wipe her nose too!

    Li Zhen couldn''t sit still anymore. She didn''t dare imagine what kind of gossip it would evolve into next.

    She hurriedly got up, wanting to get away from Lu Yanming quickly.

    But as soon as she stood up, her wrist was suddenly grabbed by Lu Yanming, blocking her way.

    Li Zhen was so shocked that her scalp tingled. "President Lu, there are so many people here!"

    "Zhen Zhen, your back..." There was a strange look on Lu Yanming''s face, his gaze falling behind Li Zhen.

    Only after Lu Yanming said this did Li Zhen feel the sticky wetness and realized it was bad...

    Could it be?

    Did her periode early, like she had heard that girls'' cycles changed the month after their first time? It was happening to her?

    Li Zhen immediately froze, not daring to move in the studio full of people.

    The next second.

    Therge suit jacket was draped over her slender back, covering the red stain on her back that she didn''t want anyone to see.

    She turned her head and looked at Lu Yanming, who was very close to her because he had put the jacket on her.

    The distance between them was very small.

    The surrounding sounds were noisy.

    But Li Zhen heard her own sigh.

    It''s over, they must have been photographed again...

 Chapter 106: Any one

    <h4>Chapter 106</h4>

    Li Zhen dared not look inside the studio, unsure of how many people were paying attention to them.

    Li Zhen swiftly escaped from the studio.

    Once outside, Li Zhen felt a sense of relief.

    She took out her phone, intending to hail a taxi, when she heard Lu Yanming''s deep voice from behind, "I''ll give you a ride."

    "No need, Mr. Lu. I''m afraid I''ll dirty your car," Li Zhen said, forcing a smile that didn''t look pleasant.

    The situation was simply awkward.

    She didn''t even spare a thought to how others might gossip about her and Lu Yanming.

    "But aren''t you worried about dirtying a taxi?" Lu Yanming''s lips curled into a faint smile as he calmly observed her.

    Li Zhen:...

    Well, it seemed equally awkward in either scenario.

    Li Zhen stood beside Lu Yanming''s car, torn between lifting the suit jacket and sitting on the seat or just sitting down without bothering about the suit.

    In any case, both the car and the suit would end up dirty.

    Before she could think it over further, her body suddenly lifted into the air.

    Lu Yanming carried her horizontally and gently ced her on the seat.

    With a click, Lu Yanming fastened her seatbelt and said, "So, you were standing there without moving because you wanted me to carry you?"

    Li Zhen''s face turned slightly red, and she muttered softly, "No, Mr. Lu."

    Lu Yanming chuckled lightly, walked around to the driver''s seat, and started the car.

    Midway, Li Zhen finally realized that she didn''t have any sanitary pads at home and needed to buy new ones.

    She didn''t know if the suit was stained and she was even more reluctant to go to the crowded supermarket.

    Li Zhen turned her head and looked at Lu Yanming, who was driving. "Mr. Lu, can you do me another favor?"

    Lu Yanming''s pale hand gripped the steering wheel as he nced at her, peering into her clear and bright eyes.

    Lu Yanming stood by the supermarket shelves, his gaze scanning the rows of feminine hygiene products.

    He pondered for a while, uncertain about which one to buy. He took out his phone, snapped a photo, and sent it to Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen immediately replied: [Any one will do.]

    Lu Yanming: [Circle the one in the picture.]

    Sitting in the car, Li Zhen selected her usual brand from the photo Lu Yanming sent and sent it back.

    Back in college, she had heard some girls say that it was a blissful thing when their boyfriends bought sanitary pads for them during awkward moments.

    Although Lu Yanming wasn''t her boyfriend, just her convenient contractual husband, having someone help her at this moment did feel quite nice.

    Lu Yanming returned quickly, stuffing arge bag into her arms, and stepped on the elerator, heading to Li Zhen''s current residence.

    A faint pain emanated from her lower abdomen as Li Zhen held her stomach and looked out the window.

    She didn''t want Lu Yanming to see her like this; it was a bit embarrassing.

    Upon arrival, Li Zhen got out of the car and waved to the person inside, "Thank you, Mr. Lu."

    After saying that, Li Zhen started walking.

    But she heard the sound of the car door closing behind her.

    She turned around and saw that Lu Yanming had caught up with her in a few steps.

    Surprised, Li Zhen looked at him and said, "Mr. Lu, you..."

    "My suit is still on you." Lu Yanming''s expression remained unchanged, as if he was merely stating a fact.

    Rather than wanting to enter her home, he said it as if it were a reason.

    Li Zhen lowered her head to look at the suit on her body, hesitated for a moment, and silently defaulted to allowing Lu Yanming to follow her upstairs.

    Upon returning home, the first thing Li Zhen did was quickly take a shower and change her clothes.

    As she entered the living room again, Lu Yanming was in the kitchen.

    A sweet aroma of red date soup filled the room.

    Li Zhen stood at the doorway of the kitchen, watching Lu Yanming with his back to her, and she knew what he was doing.

    He must have noticed that she wasn''t feeling well, so he was making the soup for her.

    That top-notch husband of hers was exuding his damn charm again.

    "Have you changed your clothes?" Lu Yanming turned around and nced at her before continuing to stir the soup with a porcin spoon. "Wait for two minutes, have some soup before going back to the studio."

    Li Zhen nodded.

    She realized that she had be ustomed to Lu Yanming''s kindness.

    In summary, it was probably because Lu Yanming never gave her a chance to feel otherwise.

    During these few days she stayed here, Lu Yanming would always find various small things to forcefully enter her life.

    On the first day, he sent her a message at night, saying, "It''s going to rain tomorrow, Zhen Zhen, remember to bring an umbre."

    If it was someone else checking up on her, Li Zhen thought, she might never forgive them.

    But Lu Yanming stayed upte and prepared a PowerPoint presentation, and her anger dissipated without her realizing it.

    His persistent messages made her feel even more unable to find a foothold for her anger.

    The next day after work, it indeed rained heavily.

    Lu Yanming sent a message, "I''m waiting for you in the basement. It''s pouring, and I''ll take you home."

    She deliberately chose to ignore it.

    An hour after getting off work, Lu Yanming sent another message, "Since you didn''te, I''ve already gone home. Don''t worry about me."

    Li Zhen had actually been worried that he would foolishly wait for her.

    Lu Yanming was like a mind reader, always grasping the perfect measure and never burdening her too much.

    On the third day, when she arrived at her doorstep after work, she found a thermal instion box.

    She opened it and found that it was filled with individually packed meals in thermal pots.

    The fragrance wafted out, making the neighboring child cry from hunger.

    Those thermal pots were all too familiar to Li Zhen.

    They were from the Huayang Mingmen household.

    And she was all too familiar with that fragrance.

    Did Lu Yanming not go to work in the afternoon? He stayed at home and prepared the meals?

    Li Zhen, her roommate, and her roommate''s boyfriend couldn''t finish the box of meals.

    Lu Yanming was working so hard to ensure that she, his tool wife, wouldn''t be lost.

    "Mr. Lu, you have a wealth of life experience. How did you learn that girls need to drink brown sugar water during their period?" Li Zhen looked at his skillful actions and praised him.

    "Zhen Zhen, your words sound like you''re testing whether I''ve had a girlfriend before," Lu Yanming nced at her, his gaze shallow.

    "I''m just making small talk," Li Zhen evaded his gaze.

    Last time in the kitchen, when she asked him if he had someone he liked, Lu Yanming only replied with two words: "You guess."

    Li Zhen didn''t know why, but she suddenly became curious about whether he had ever dated someone and if he currently liked someone.

    This thought popped into her mind out of nowhere, making her itch to know the answer.

    "Are we dating now?" Lu Yanming suddenly asked.

    Li Zhen paused for a moment, "Of course not."

    "Then I''ve never dated anyone," Lu Yanming took a bowl and added soup to it with a raised hand.

    As he raised his hand, his sleeve pulled up, revealing his wrist with prominent knuckles. Faint veins floated and extended into the sleeve.

    Every gesture exuded the unique charm of a charismatic man, apanied by a blend of warmth and considerate husband-like qualities. Surprisingly, this harmoniousbination of tenderness and assertive aura, infused with the hormones of masculinity, emanated from Lu Yanming.

 Chapter 107: Blame me for Being Squeamish

    <h4>Chapter 107</h4>

    Li Zhen was somewhat mesmerized. Indeed, handsome men rarely belonged to women.

    "Mr. Lu, are you perhaps interested in men?"

    Lu Yanming''s hand visibly paused for a moment, then he let out a shortugh. "How did youe to that conclusion?"

    "You asked me to guess earlier, so I''ll take a guess."

    "It seems your deductive abilities arecking." Lu Yanming carried a bowl of red date and brown sugar soup out of the kitchen.

    As he passed by Li Zhen, she reached out her hand to take it. "Then what type do you like?"

    Lu Yanming evaded her hand. "It''s hot, models aren''t supposed to do these things."

    Lu Yanming ced the bowl on the dining table.

    He pulled out a chair, turned back to Li Zhen, and said, "But a model''s husband can."

    "Oh." Li Zhen squeezed out a sound from her throat.

    Perhaps it was because Lu Yanming''s voice was too pleasant to the ears, or maybe his words were easily misunderstood, but Li Zhen''s heart skipped a beat.

    She walked over and was about to sit down, but Lu Yanming suddenly pulled her into his embrace and called out softly, "Zhen Zhen..."

    Li Zhen was forced to turn around, facing Lu Yanming, with her lower back against the edge of the chair.

    They hadn''t seen each other much in the past few days, and the sudden proximity made Li Zhen''s breath hitch.

    "You asked me earlier what I like." Lu Yanming''s eyes behind his gold-rimmed sses became deep, and he raised his hand to tap Li Zhen''s fingertips. "I like it when I drink milk tea and it tickles my nose."

    He gave a slight pinch to Li Zhen''s waist, and chuckled softly. "I also like it when someone is delicate and easily toppled over."

    As he spoke, his hand on Li Zhen''s nose slowly moved to her plump and tender lips. "Even more so, I like it when I kiss someone and they forget to breathe, making their legs go weak."

    Li Zhen felt her body suddenly heat up, her face turning as red as if it could drip blood. "Mr. Lu, I''m not very angry anymore about you investigating that matter, so you don''t have to say these things to make me happy."

    "Are you saying that these words won''t make you happy?" Lu Yanming''s smile deepened, and he pressed down on Li Zhen''s lips with the fingertip that was on her nose, twisting it. "Zhen Zhen, you''re so easy to please."

    Li Zhen''s ears were already burning hot.

    Based on her experience with Lu Yanming, this man was probably about to unleash his animalistic side.

    She raised her hand and grabbed Lu Yanming''s wrist, trying to pull away. "Mr. Lu, let''s just have a good chat. No need for any touching."

    However, Lu Yanming controlled both of her hands, pressing them against her back. "I don''t just want to chat."

    Before Li Zhen could protest, she was silenced by a kiss.

    This kiss was fierce, like a flood bursting through the gates.

    Her breath was stolen, her consciousness detached.

    All her senses were under the control of the man in front of her, and the intensity was solely dictated by his will.

    Li Zhen couldn''t bear it, so she arched her back and the hand on her waist moved upward, supporting her slender spine.

    She leaned even closer into Lu Yanming''s embrace.

    Li Zhen''s heart was beating rapidly, causing her chest to rise and fall. The softness of her body pressed against Lu Yanming''s sturdy chest.

    Lu Yanming was enveloped by the fragrant softness, and the explosive and scorching sensationpelled him to reach under Li Zhen''s suspender top.

    However, the softness in his hand couldn''t ease his hardness; instead, it intensified his unbearable desire.

    He released Li Zhen and gasped, almost pleadingly, "Zhen Zhen..."

    His calling her made Li Zhen''s scalp tingle.

    He was like a child demanding candy.

    If he didn''t get it, he would throw a tantrum.

    "Mr. Lu..." Li Zhen''s breathing was even heavier and more chaotic than Lu Yanming''s. Weakly leaning against his embrace, she said, "Mr. Lu, please calm down. I can''t do this right now. I just got my period..."

    "What should I do then?" Lu Yanming''s voice sounded hoarse and intimidating.

    It didn''t sound like a question.

    It sounded more like an usation.

    In the days they were apart, he couldn''t help but wonder if she was with Yu Sheng again.

    What were they doing?

    The mention of her "ex-husband" that day almost killed him.

    His heart had been boiling and frying in a pan for the past few days.

    Now that Li Zhen was truly in his arms, he could finally catch his breath.

    He wanted to mold her into his body, so she couldn''t just disappear whenever she pleased. He didn''t want to be consumed by endless spections and sleepless nights.

    "I... I have no choice!" Li Zhen sobbed,cking confidence, burying her head in his chest.

    The more she thought about it, the more wrong it felt.

    Even if she didn''t provoke Lu Yanming''s anger, how could things have ended up like this between them?

    Li Zhen pushed him away and said, "Mr. Lu, let go."

    "No, I won''t let go." Lu Yanming held her even tighter, biting her neck as if punishing her. "If I let go, where will you go? Will you go find your ex-husband?"

    "Ah..." Li Zhen gasped in pain.

    Was he a dog?

    It hurt so much!

    Li Zhen said angrily, "You finally said it. Since you know, you shouldn''t have kept it from me before, making me afraid every day of being discovered by you..."

    "Why are you afraid of me discovering it?" Lu Yanming lifted his head from her neck and looked at her helplessly.

    "Because I was afraid that one day, if I offended you, you would report it to thepany, and I would have to pay a lot of money."

    "Report what? Report that Yu Sheng used to be your husband? That you used to live under the same roof?"

    Lu Yanming sighed almost inaudibly, "Zhen Zhen, if possible, I''d rather no one knew about this."

    He only wanted everyone to know that Li Zhen belonged to him.

    Li Zhen wrinkled her nose. That was probably because she was his business partner now. Once she was no longer needed, who knows...

    Li Zhen exerted force with her hand, trying to push him away. "Mr. Lu, please let go of me first."

    But Lu Yanming held her hand in return, guiding it downward, letting her take control. He whispered, "Zhen Zhen, please help me..."

    Swoosh!

    Li Zhen''s whole body was scalded by the boiling blood. "I won''t!"

    "I''ll teach you. I''ll do it with your guidance."

    -

    An hourter, Li Zhen sat at the dining table, sipping jujube soup with brown sugar.

    Just as she lifted the spoon.

    "tter!" Her hand went limp, and the spoon fell into the bowl.

    Li Zhen:...

    How infuriating!

    He said it would be quick!

    But it took a whole hour!

    Li Zhen felt like she would die from exhaustion.

    Lu Yanming sat across from her, chuckled softly, stood up from his tall figure, and walked over to Li Zhen''s side.

    Li Zhen couldn''t help but nce at him and said, "I won''t drink it anymore. This jujube soup is really time-consuming, and the price is too high. I won''t drink it in the future."

    As soon as she finished speaking, she was easily lifted up.

    Lu Yanming sat down on a chair, cradling Li Zhen in hisp, holding a bowl in one hand and a spoon in the other, bringing it to her lips.

    "It''s my fault. I forgot that Zhen Zhen''s hands were tired."

    Li Zhen felt embarrassed being held in his arms like a child.

    But when she thought about how tired she had been earlier, it was only fair that he made some effort.

    She deserved to enjoy it.

    So she drank it with a clear conscience.

    Lu Yanming put the spoon back into the bowl, took a tissue, wiped the corners of Li Zhen''s mouth, and continued to feed her.

    He teased, "Model hands are so delicate..."

    "Mr. Lu, are you using me of being delicate? How about you try it for an hour?" Li Zhen red at him.

    "Zhen Zhen, you misunderstood me." Lu Yanming gazed into her clear eyes, unable to resist lightly kissing the corner of her mouth. "I was praising Zhen Zhen''s hands. They provide such a wonderful experience."

    Li Zhen: ...

    Goodness! Why does this man say everything!

 Chapter 108: Do me a favor

    <h4>Chapter 108</h4>

    Li Zhen had barely taken a few sips of the soup when she sensed something was off.

    As she shifted slightly, the feeling became even more noticeable.

    She stood up abruptly, "Mr. Lu, you..."

    Li Zhen looked down in shock and bewilderment.

    Lu Yanming also looked down there.

    Under both of their gazes, it continued to swell irrepressibly.

    He lightly pulled his lips into azy smile, "Sorry about that."

    Flustered and at a loss, Li Zhen could no longer drink her soup. She turned to leave.

    Her wrist was grabbed and the next moment, she was sitting in Lu Yanming''sp again.

    Li Zhen let out a soft cry before looking back at the man holding her, "Mr. Lu, aren''t you afraid I''ll crush you sitting here?"

    "I''m not that fragile," Lu Yanming''s deep, sexy voice that rivaled a top voice actor''s spoke slowly, "Not afraid you''ll break me, just afraid you won''t..."

    Li Zhen was taken aback for a moment.

    She instinctively felt Lu Yanming was saying something indecent.

    Seeing her bite her lip, shocked, bashful, and helpless sitting in his arms, Lu Yanming''s heart instantly softened.

    Though reluctant to continue teasing her, he still wanted to see her richer, more moving expressions.

    Li Zhen could feel the ce she was sitting grow increasingly hot and hard, leaving no doubt about the chaotic thoughts running through the mind of the man holding her.

    She wanted to stand but couldn''t move an inch, his sturdy arm around her waist holding her down tightly, not allowing her the slightest wiggle room.

    Li Zhen decided to just drink the rest of the soup in one gulp, "Mr. Lu, I''ve finished drinking. Let''s go."

    Lu Yanming didn''t budge. His light eyes behind the gold rimmed sses gazed at her silently.

    He moved closer to Li Zhen and kissed away the bit of soup at the corner of her mouth, "Zhen Zhen, I still want more."

    "There''s plenty more in the pot, as much as you''d like..." Still bashful, Li Zhen grabbed the edge of the table, trying to struggle free and stand.

    Lu Yanming exerted even more strength.

    She was pressed tightly against his hardness.

    Lu Yanming took a deep breath, pleasure shooting through every nerve. "What I still want isn''t the soup..."

    "You just had me a moment ago..." Li Zhen''s fur stood on end as she turned back to re at him, lips pursed, "I have no strength left."

    "Strength, like time, can be squeezed out when needed," Lu Yanming''s breathing grew ragged as he buried his head in the crook of Li Zhen''s neck, "Zhen Zhen is the best at this, isn''t she?"

    Li Zhen always had a faint scent about her that could only be detected up close.

    With no chance to get near her these past few days, smelling it now was like a withered root finding a source of sweet water.

    His thirst could no longer be contained.

    Once was not enough.

    "Mr. Lu, don''t tter me, I won''t fall for your sweet talk..." Li Zhen tried her best to stay calm.

    But the heat emanating from Lu Yanming''s body was scorching.

    She trembled slightly in fear.

    "Onest time..." Lu Yanming''s sturdy, powerful arm held her waist tightly while his other hand tilted up her face, his tone casual yet hoarse and tempting, "Zhen Zhen, just one more time, otherwise I won''t be able to concentrate at work this afternoon..."

    Li Zhen realized Lu Yanming could be quite stubborn.

    Just like thest few days, trying different ways to please her each day.

    Now too, no matter how she refused, he simply wouldn''t listen, insisting on having his way.

    Wearing her down with soft and hard persuasion until she was left without a shred of resistance.

    He won every match, talking circles around her.

    Lu Yanming was someone she was powerless against, whether soft or hard.

    Remembering he had just bitten her a moment ago, indignation welled up in Li Zhen and she bit down on his shoulder in retaliation before looking up at him, "Mr. Lu, do you think I''m easy to bully?"

    Lu Yanming lowered his head andughed, a low rumble vibrating his chest, "Zhen Zhen learns quickly, already so good at biting."

    "Then let me teach Zhen Zhen something more."

    Li Zhen''s heart skipped a beat as she nced down.

    Lu Yanming had easily bitten her buttons open with a faint "pop"

    "Mr. Lu..."

    Before she could finish, Lu Yanming parted her clothes and kissed her swells, entwining and tugging.

    The tender sensations drained her limbs of strength, forcing her to tilt her head back with an agonized moan, her whole body taut.

    Lu Yanming looked up at her arched, snow white neck and smiled, "Zhen Zhen, have you learned it?"

    "Or you could use your..."

    Li Zhen''s ears burned crimson, unable to bear hearing more as she weakly covered his lips, "Quiet! Are you a hooligan?!"

    Her rebukecked any real intimidation.

    Soft and pliant, more like a spoiled tantrum.

    With one hand supporting her waist, afraid she''d go limp and slip down, and the other cradling the back of her head, forcing her to look at him, Lu Yanming''s eyes darkened as he kissed her swells, kissed her lips, "Yes I''m a rogue, Zhen Zhen can hit me or scold me, I''ll take it, but right now I just can''t hold back..."

    Li Zhen was kissed until her waist and legs went soft.

    Her whole body weak and hollow.

    Lu Yanming kissed the wet corners of her eyes.

    Seeing her like this, soft and pliant in his arms, even the strongest willpower could not make him endure.

    Lu Yanming buried his head and bit off all her remaining buttons, peeling away the scant fabric, chuckling low and hoarse, "Zhen Zhen, please..."

    Li Zhen''s heart pounded violently.

    She was truly powerless to refuse him.

    Letting him take as he pleased.

    -

    In the photography studio.

    During a break in her shoot, Dong Wanwan happened to catch sight of Li Zhen with the man Executive Director Yu had called "Mr. Lu" who had tried to scam her.

    The two of them were openly pulling at each other in the studio, heedless of onlookers.

    Just as she thought to take a photo for Executive Director Yu, the two had already left.

    Dong Wanwan nced around and noticed three models gossiping nearby.

    The three of them were looking at photos on their phones.

    Dong Wanwan took a peek.

    The photos showed Li Zhen and that man.

    Dong Wanwan sashayed over, chin raised arrogantly, "Send that photo on your phone to me."

    Dong Wanwan was surprised when all three looked up at her and bluntly asked in unison, "Who are you? Why do you want her photo?"

    Very rude tones.

    "You don''t recognize me? I''m the spokesperson Palette Cosmetics hired for this campaign?" Dong Wanwanughed mockingly, full of arrogance.

    "A movie star?" one of the men asked her.

    Dong Wanwan: ...

    Her bravado was instantly shattered.

    "I...I''m Dong Wanwan..." For a moment, Dong Wanwan even stuttered a little.

    The man scoffed, "Talking with such attitude, I thought you were a movie star!"

    Dong Wanwan didn''t want to waste time with them, simply saying, "Just give me that photo, name your price."

    "What are you going to use it for?" one of the women asked.

    "What''s it to you, just give it to me!" Dong Wanwan hadn''t expected getting a simple photo to be so difficult with these three.

    Palette Cosmetics truly didn''t seem to suit her.

    Whether it was Li Zhen, that Mr. Lu, or these three in front of her now, she didn''t like any of them.

    "Alright, one hundred million," the man said with utmost sincerity.

 Chapter 109: Donâ€™t Worry about Sheng Ge

    <h4>Chapter 109</h4>

    Dong Wanwan was so angry that her lungs nearly exploded. "Why didn''t you go grab it?"

    "Can''t afford it? Then stop pretending to be so rich," a woman spoke up.

    "A shady little model that can''t make it mainstream!" Dong Wanwan was so furious with these three that she cursed and then turned to leave.

    She had only taken two steps when she heard theughter of the three women behind her.

    "Only shameless people ask for photos for no reason!"

    "She looks like she has a rat face but thinks she''s so beautiful."

    "There''s something wrong with her brain."

    Dong Wanwan clenched her fists tightly in anger.

    What kind of godforsaken ce was Honghai? She should have nevere!

    As soon as Dong Wanwan left, Zhang Xiya and the other two women stoppedughing.

    Qiao Yi frowned. "Who is she? Why did she want those photos?"

    Zhang Xiya immediately looked up Dong Wanwan''s information online and opened her wiki page.

    "I see. She went to the same school and studied the same major as Little Zhenzhen. They must have been college ssmates."

    "She was asking for photos of Li Zhen and President Lu just now. She must be up to no good." Meng Yuanjie looked in the direction of Dong Wanwan, who was not far away reapplying her makeup.

    Dong Wanwan desperately neededfort. As the makeup artist touched up her look, Dong sent an audio message to Zhou Chaowen: "Hubby, you said you wereing to see me but you''re not here yet. I''m so tired today."

    Her coquettish tone made the makeup artist shudder.

    -

    Outside the movie theater, Zhou Chaowen parked his car and listened to Dong Wanwan''s message. He replied: "Be good baby, I''m here already. Going in right away, muah!"

    As soon as he sent it, a ck Rolls Royce pulled up next to Zhou''s car.

    The extended body of the car was sleek and shy.

    Zhou Chaowen shrank back to avoid the dust kicked up by the tires.

    When the Rolls Royce parked, two people got out.

    Zhou Chaowen recognized one of them and eximed, "Sis Li!"

    "Chaowen..." Li Zhen was surprised to run into Zhou Chaowen here. She realized he must be here for Dong Wanwan.

    "And who''s this?" Zhou Chaowen looked at the man with Li Zhen.

    The man had an outstanding aura and drove an expensive car. Appearing with Li Zhen outside the photography studio, Zhou guessed he must be Li''s boss.

    Upon thinking further, Zhou Chaowen recalled meeting this man at the exhibition hallst time. Brother Sheng had called him President Lu.

    Without waiting for Li Zhen to introduce him, Lu Yanming took the initiative to shake Zhou Chaowen''s hand. "Hello."

    Zhou Chaowen was surprised by this man''s enthusiasm. "Hello, hello. You''re Sis Li''s boss, right? I''m her good friend Zhou Chaowen."

    "Lu Yanming," Lu replied sinctly.

    Li Zhen added: "Chaowen, he is the vice president of our group."

    Zhou Chaowen smiled and said, "President Lu, I''m also good friends with President Yu Sheng of your Honghai marketing department. We met at the exhibition hallst time."

    Upon hearing this, Lu Yanming imperceptibly withdrew his hand from Zhou Chaowen''s grasp.

    Other than Li Zhen, Lu hadn''t bothered looking at anyone else at the exhibition hall, so he naturally didn''t remember Zhou.

    Zhou Chaowen: ...

    Why did this man suddenly change his attitude?

    Zhou didn''t dwell on it and continued smiling at Li Zhen, "Sis Li, you rented the Honghai photography studio right? I came to visit Wanwan so let''s go in together."

    "Sure, let''s go..." Li Zhen''s red lips curved up gently and her eyes were smiling.

    Zhou Chaowen was momentarily stunned by the sight.

    The previous times he had seen Li Zhen, she was always with Yu Sheng.

    She seldom smiled.

    But today, her smile made Zhou Chaowen feel like he was back in college.

    Back then, whenever Li Zhen smiled, his heart would uncontrobly tremble.

    Every time they had dorm gatherings, he both anticipated and dreaded Brother Sheng bringing Li Zhen along.

    Brother Sheng never failed to bring Li Zhen. After the two of them got together, they rarely went anywhere separately.

    At every gathering, Zhou Chaowen had to exert immense self-control to stop himself from looking at Li Zhen when she smiled.

    Suddenly, a tall figure blocked the space between Zhou Chaowen and Li Zhen.

    Zhou''s line of sight, which had been fixed on Li Zhen, was obstructed by a pair of light-colored eyes behind wire-rimmed sses.

    Zhou Chaowen felt guilty and didn''t dare continue looking, hurriedly shifting his gaze away.

    Li Zhen was displeased. "President Lu, didn''t President Wang just call you in the car saying he was waiting for you to return? Why did you follow us here?"

    And he just happened to block her path!

    Lu Yanming pushed up the wire-rimmed sses on his straight nose and unhurriedly responded, "It''s not urgent..."

    Li Zhen stood still. "President Lu, that''s thepany''s weekly meeting. You say it''s not urgent?"

    Lu Yanming pulled his lips into a faint smile, his detached gaze scanning over the man behind Li Zhen.

    He gently embraced Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen: ...

    Zhou Chaowen: ...

    Before Li Zhen could react, Lu Yanming had already let go. "Zhen Zhen, I''lle pick you upter."

    Li Zhen was astonished.

    They weren''t living together anymore, so why would hee get her?

    Lu Yanming drove off, leaving behind a shocked Zhou Chaowen. "Sis Li Zhen, he...he..."

    He simply couldn''t imagine or ept any man other than Brother Sheng being so intimate with Li Zhen.

    "He just got back from overseas, so his etiquette is a bit warmer..." Li Zhen smoothly exined it away with a smile.

    "Is that so? Don''t try to fool me, I didn''t get much schooling."

    Zhou Chaowen didn''t quite believe her. He felt that man''s attitude toward Li Zhen was strange.

    "Really, really," Li Zhen brushed it off.

    On the way from the theater entrance to the photography studio, the two chatted about many embarrassing stories of their other college friends.

    Li Zhenughed continuously while Zhou Chaowen was distracted.

    It had been so long since he was alone with Li Zhen.

    He wasn''t used to it.

    As they walked he became increasingly clumsy, his hands and feet oddly refusing to obey him.

    His heart was also thumping loudly.

    He didn''t dare nce in Li Zhen''s direction even once, only able to force himself to stare at the ground as they walked.

    Zhou Chaowen thought this was the longest yet shortest walk he''d taken in years.

    "And then at that time, Yu Sheng..." Li Zhen suddenly stopped.

    She had been talking about other people and momentarily forgot to avoid mentioning Yu Sheng.

    She cut herself off, about to change the subject.

    Zhou Chaowen suddenly asked, "Oh right, Sis Li, has Brother Sheng''s health improved?"

    Li Zhen was startled. "Hm?"

    Zhou Chaowen suddenly realized something. "You don''t know that Brother Sheng is sick?"

    Li Zhen shook her head.

    After apanying her to the Li house that day, Yu Sheng hadn''t been to work sinceing in for a day.

    Zhou Chaowen said, "That day when I called Brother Sheng, it was his younger brother who picked up. He said an infection in Brother Sheng''s wound caused him to have a high fever off and on for several days, sometimes lucid and sometimes delirious."

    He had wanted to visit Brother Sheng but his brother said he needed peace and quiet to recuperate.

    After finishing, Zhou Chaowen looked at Li Zhen.

    He was shocked to find Li Zhen''s expression seemedpletely unmoved. She just calmly replied, "Oh, so that''s why he hasn''t been at work."

    Zhou Chaowen was stunned speechless for a long time.

    Was this still Li Zhen?

    Back in college, she would be anxious if Brother Sheng so much as sneezed once.

    But now...

    Could it be that Li Zhen knew it wasn''t the person who saved her? No, that can''t be. If she knew, Li Zhen would have had more than this reaction.

    Zhou Chaowen tentatively asked, "Sis Li, aren''t you worried about Brother Sheng?"

    "Why would I worry about him? Didn''t I tell you, we''re divorced now." Li Zhen spoke casually.

    Yu Sheng had Mother Wu, he had Yu Yang, he had his top-notch private medical team behind him.

    Even the most severe illness was not an issue for someone like him.

 Chapter 110: Letâ€™s Talk About It

    <h4>Chapter 110</h4>

    Zhou Chaowen walked all the way without saying a word again, following Li Zhen into the studio in shock.

    Zhou Chaowen went to find Dong Wanwan.

    Li Zhen continued to sit in her old positionzily.

    She ordered another coffee delivery and took out her phone while drinking.

    She opened Yu Sheng''s chat interface. The messages between them were from a long time ago.

    Zhou Chaowen said Yu Sheng had an infected wound.

    How did he get hurt?

    Over the past seven years, he had always been in good health and hadn''t been sick or injured in recent years.

    Seven years ago, Yu Sheng had risked his life to save her. Li Zhen couldn''tpletely put her mind at ease.

    What if, what if this time it was really some very serious injury?

    She typed and deleted on her phone.

    In the end, she still put her phone down.

    He had many people around him. She was just an ex-wife from the past. Her concern was unnecessary.

    -

    As soon as Dong Wanwan saw Zhou Chaowene in, she immediately clung affectionately to his arm, "Dear, I miss you so much."

    Zhou Chaowen pinched her face, "I miss you too, dear."

    The interaction between the two was so mushy that everyone around couldn''t stand to watch, and they all turned their heads away.

    But the gossip didn''t stop.

    "Isn''t that the boss of Wenfang Video?"

    "Yeah, he''s been on many business magazines. He''s a real tycoon."

    "He''s quite capable, just blind in love, how could he fall for such a pretentious woman?"

    "Who knows..."

    "Dong Wanwan is so lucky. If she hadn''t married the boss of Wenfang Video, who would know her?"

    Dong Wanwan heard all thesements clearly.

    But she didn''t mind at all.

    On the contrary, she felt extremely gratified.

    Let them be envious.

    She was just lucky and a winner in life.

    Her phone in her bag suddenly rang. Her assistant Ai Ru quickly took it for her.

    Dong Wanwan took a look at the content on it, immediately turned off her phone, nced at Zhou Chaowen, "Dear, you sit down. Let me pour you a ss of water?"

    "Okay, thanks dear." Zhou Chaowen kissed her.

    Holding her phone, Dong Wanwan went to the corner and secretly opened the message she just received.

    The one who sent her a message was the male model she met at a bar with some girlfriendsst time.

    He was still a college student.

    Last time at the bar, his ability in that area was quite good and he served her well.

    So Dong Wanwan added his WeChat, noting him as "Xiao Ning181, 20, 17.5".

    Xiao Ning: [Sister Wanwan, why haven''t youe to see me these days?]

    Dong Wanwan: [Busy, shooting amercial here, been staying in a hotel near the studio these days.]

    Xiao Ning immediately understood Dong Wanwan''s implication, [Sister Wanwan, shall I bring you ate night snack tonight?]

    Dong Wanwan: [Don''t you have work at night? It would be too much trouble for you.]

    Xiao Ning: [Work is not as important as bringing you ate night snack, Sister Wanwan.]

    Dong Wanwan: [Then ok...]

    Recalling the taste fromst time, Dong Wanwan couldn''t wait.

    She brought a ss of water back to Zhou Chaowen.

    Zhou Chaowen took a sip and was about to leave.

    Dong Wanwan made a reluctant expression, "Dear, leaving so soon? I''ll miss you."

    "I just came by to squeeze in some time. I really don''t have time. Be good!" Zhou Chaowen rubbed Dong Wanwan''s hair affectionately, "Or how about I send a driver to take you home tonight? You don''t have to stay here."

    "No, dear. The actresses are willing to rough it out here ording to Honghai''s arrangements. Of course I have to stay too. Otherwise people will say I''m throwing my weight around again." Dong Wanwan quickly refused.

    Zhou Chaowen said, "My dear, if you want to throw your weight around, just do it. Who can stop you?"

    "Dear, you really pamper me. But I also need to maintain my own image..."

    Seeing that he couldn''t persuade her, Zhou Chaowen didn''t say any more.

    -

    Li Zhen sat leisurely ying with her phone. Zhange Xiya took the opportunity toe over and rest beside her during a break.

    "Little Zhen Zhen, how do you think this matter will end? Everyone has gone crazy gossiping about it in the group." Zhang Xiya was very worried.

    "What can we do? They''ll get tired of gossiping about it eventually." Li Zhen was also very helpless.

    Sheforted herself, it''s okay, it''s okay.

    Everyone also gossiped about her and Lu Yanming before, but nothing really happened.

    "And everyone is nice. They just gossip in the group. They never call me directly to ask about it." Li Zhen sounded rxed.

    Just as she finished speaking, her phone suddenly rang.

    Sister Song''s excited and straightforward voice came from the other end, "Li Zhen! Are you with Boss Lu now?!"

    Li Zhen: ...

    Sister Song: "Don''t treat Sister Song as an outsider! How far have you gone with Boss Lu? Kissed? Hugg..."

    "Sister Song, I''m in the studio, bad signal, gotta hang up now!"

    Li Zhen hastily hung up the phone and said to Zhang Xiya, "It''s okay, it''s okay. I didn''t join their group either, so I can''t see what they say anyway. I''ll just pretend I don''t know..."

    Zhang Xiya said, "Ahem... Little Zhen Zhen, they added you to the Wild Stallions Gossip Group."

    Li Zhen: ...

    Looking at her phone, she had quietly entered this mysterious group that only existed in her ears before.

    She advised them not to be too obsessed!

    There were already over a hundred @ messages to her.

    "Are you guys speed demons? How can you type so many words in one second?" Li Zhen''s mind buzzed. She hurriedly clicked to exit the group chat.

    But before one second passed, someone else added her back in.

    Before she could react, another hundred @ messages came in.

    Li Zhen exited again.

    Another person immediately added her back.

    Li Zhen: ...

    Li Zhen looked at Zhang Xiya in despair.

    Zhang Xiya shrugged, "See, I said they''ve gone gossip crazy. Everyone''s gossip blood has beenpletely awakened and they just can''t hold it in anymore..."

    Zhang Xiya was also very curious!

    Seeing Li Zhen''s frustrated and helpless expression, Zhang Xiya was afraid she might burst outughing, so she quickly slipped away.

    Li Zhen: [Everyone, nothing happened between me and Boss Lu.]

    After sending it, Li Zhen swiftly deleted the chat app with lightning speed!

    Peace and quiet returned to the world!

    -

    Honghai Group headquarters.

    Yu Sheng pressed the inte and called in Zhao Yan.

    Zhao Yan pushed the door open, "Boss Yu."

    Leaning back in the soft leather chair, Yu Sheng looked up at him arrogantly, "What''s your nephew called again?"

    Zhao Yan was startled.

    So Boss Yu had known all along that Tian Pingwei was his nephew.

    "He''s called Tian Pingwei." Zhao Yan quickly replied.

    "I''ve finished my work. I''m going over to the studio town. Call him over to drive for me." Saying so, Yu Sheng already got up.

    Zhao Yan was startled again.

    Boss Yu hadn''t been to work for several days. Today he only worked half a day and said he was done? He''s going to the studio town?

    This was so unlike Boss Yu''s style...

 Chapter 111: What Is a Proper Relationship

    <h4>Chapter 111</h4>

    Yu Sheng was already at the door and saw that Zhao Yan was still standing there in a daze.

    Yu Sheng hade to thepany to see Tian Pingwei, so he should not be too busy. That''s why he called Zhao Yan over.

    Zhao Yan hurriedly said, "No, no, no, he''s not busy, but I don''t feel assured with him going alone with you. I''ll drive the car."

    Yu Sheng thought for two seconds and nodded.

    In the car, Yu Sheng rested with his eyes closed. His rugged, handsome face looked a little sickly.

    Zhao Yan couldn''t help but nce at him in the rearview mirror.

    President Yu had taken a few days off and now he lookedpletely different than before.

    It was as if he was a clock that had been wound up for years on end, stretched taut all this time.

    Now he suddenly seemed rxed, like a weight had been lifted off his shoulders.

    In the past three years, President Yu had created so many miracles for thepany and the marketing department. He had always been Zhao Yan''s idol and motivation to move forward.

    President Yu deserved to rx for a bit.

    -

    "Time to eat, time to eat..."

    The logistics team called out loudly at the door of the photography studio.

    After working hard for half a day, everyone hurried over to the temporary dining area set up near the door.

    The dining area was outdoors.

    The afternoon sun was scorching hot, but there was only one fan at the dining area.

    Li Zhen was the first to arrive. She took four boxed meals, including Zhang Xiya and the others''. She hurried over to the table closest to the fan.

    The fan, she hade for it!

    Li Zhen put the boxed meals down on the table and pulled out a chair to sit down.

    But with a "plop" she sat right down onto the ground instead.

    Li Zhen: ...

    She sat heavily on the ground. The pain in her bottom was secondary. She was always at her weakest and most ufortable when she had her period.

    Having just started her period, her stomach felt instantly twisted up and she was in so much pain that beads of sweat broke out on her forehead.

    When she looked up, she saw Lin Si standing tall right next to her,ughing at her. "Li Zhen, you''ve been idle all morning, and now you want the best seat too?"

    Lin Si looked down at Li Zhen writhing in pain on the ground. She felt extremely gleeful inside.

    Just now, she had been simrly humiliated by Assistant Fei and had walked away sullenly, not daring to make a sound.

    And then she saw Li Zhen tantly flirting with the new deputy general manager over and over again.

    Lin Si had been fuming for a long time. Now she finally felt gratified.

    "With the state you''re in, I don''t know why General Manager Lu would be seduced by you, you slut!" Lin Si''s spiteful gaze swept over Li Zhen.

    "Are your eyes connected to your dder? You think every woman you see is a slut?" Li Zhen clenched her teeth and used the small dining table to pull herself up.

    Lin Si''s face darkened. "How can you speak so vulgarly?"

    "Compared to your eyes, my mouth is much cleaner," Li Zhen retorted, looking around.

    Boxed meals?

    No, throwing boxed meals at someone wouldn''t hurt.

    The table?

    No, the table wouldn''t work either. Tang Wanwan had tried to flip a table before and couldn''t even move it.

    Chairs?

    The chairs looked promising. Hitting someone with a chair would definitely hurt.

    She should be able to swing one too.

    But her stomach was twisted in pain. She didn''t know if she could win in a fight against Lin Si like this.

    Li Zhen''s eyes darted around, looking for something to use. Sensing trouble, Lin Si said uneasily, "What are you... thinking of doing? I fell because of you this morning too. Let''s just call it even. You can''t hit me! Don''t underestimate me just because I''m a beauty. I''ve trained in karate!"

    "You''re so impressive, a beauty and a karate expert..." Li Zhen nced at her disdainfully as she picked up a chair. "Do you think you''re a goat who just farted, trying to be all stylish and flirty?"

    Lin Si''s face turned red and pale in quick session.

    She was furious at being insulted, but didn''t dare talk back...

    Mainly because Li Zhen had picked up a chair.

    Lin Si was all bark and no bite.

    But Li Zhen really intended to hit someone!

    Lin Si retreated two steps, but bumped into something hard behind her.

    Looking back, she saw Yu Sheng''s face dark with anger, firmly holding a chair.

    "Yu... President Yu..." Lin Si''s voice went shrill with fright.

    The people who had juste out of the studio door were stunned into silence by the scene before them.

    "What did you just call her?" Yu Sheng''s voice was as cold as ice. The chair in his hand was raised high.

    Lin Si''s legs went weak and she plopped down onto the ground in terror.

    It looked like Yu Sheng was about to smash the chair down on her.

    Li Zhen rushed over and snatched the chair away with a "snap", throwing it to the ground. "Yu Sheng, you can''t smash someone with a chair. You could kill them!"

    "Didn''t you want to hit her? I said, leave the rough stuff to me." Yu Sheng spoke calmly.

    Everyone: ...

    Whoa, the implications of that sentence were HUGE!

    Everyone''s minds were still hyperventting over the CP between Li Zhen and General Manager Lu that morning.

    And now President Yu had sprung this on them!

    Their brains short-circuited.

    It was a bit hard to process!

    Zhao Yan looked at everyone, then at Yu Sheng.

    Oh no, it looked like their intimate rtionship was exposed.

    Office romances meant getting fired at Honghai Corporation!

    Li Zhen was furious. "I''m nothing like you! You don''t know your own strength when yoush out!"

    "But she insulted you," Yu Sheng said coldly, his frosty, taciturn gaze fixed on Lin Si cowering on the ground. His eyes were like icy arrows.

    Lin Si''s legs were trembling.

    Yu Sheng could still hear Lin Si''s "seduced General Manager Lu" and "slut" from earlier echoing in his ears.

    "Even when I scold my own woman, I think carefully before saying anything. Yet you dared to hurl insults so freely!" Yu Sheng''s expression was nk as he picked up the chair again.

    Everyone: ...

    Whoa mama!

    This was INTENSE!

    What did he mean by Li Zhen being his woman?!

    Boyfriend and girlfriend?

    Friends with benefits?

    Office affair?

    Usually when there was juicy gossip like this, someone would have already leaked it to the Hunks'' Banquet chat group.

    But everyone was on tenterhooks now, straining to find out what exactly the rtionship between these two was.

    They were listening more attentively than when teachers revealed exam questions before the Gaokao!

    Ren Zongshun was stunned speechless on the spot.

    Thank goodness, thank goodness!

    In the past, he hadn''t really bullied Li Zhen, and only adjusted her work schedule a couple of times to help Jiang Kening.

    Thankfully he hadn''t gone further than that!

    Otherwise, his grave would probably be covered with two meters of grass by now.

    Who could have imagined that Li Zhen and President Yu had this kind of rtionship!

    Zhang Xiya, Qiao Yi and Meng Yuanjie struck praying poses. "Poor Li Zhen, she''s going to get fired now... will thepany let her go without paying the penalty fee?" Zhang Xiya worriedly asked Ren Zongshun.

    Ren Zongshun worriedly asked back: "Do you think I''ve treated Li Zhen decently these past three years?"

    Li Zhen didn''t notice any of themotion at the studio door at all.

    All her attention was focused on the chair in Yu Sheng''s hand. He clearly intended tosh out fiercely. His grip would be too strong to restrain.

    Enduring the stabbing pain in her stomach, she stretched out both hands to shield Lin Si behind her. "Forget it. Women insulting each other isn''t a big deal. Put the chair down first."

    Seeing someone shielding her, Lin Si still didn''t know better and said, "That''s right, President Yu, you can''t hit me. You and Li Zhen have an improper rtionship. You''ll both have to be dismissed, you can''t throw your weight around here anymore."

    Yu Sheng gave a coldugh. "Improper rtionship?"

    "Li Zhen is my wife. How is that not a proper rtionship?"

    "Then you tell me, what is a proper rtionship?"

    Li Zhen: ...

    Everyone: ...

    Fei Zhao: ...

    Fei Zhao was scared out of his wits. He nced anxiously at the person standing next to him.

 Chapter 112: Too Presumptuous

    <h4>Chapter 112</h4>

    Everyone was shocked at Yu Sheng''s words, their eyeballs almost popping out.

    The two were husband and wife?

    The intimidating head of the marketing department that everyone in thepany feared, and the unremarkable little advertising assistant, were husband and wife!

    Even Zhang Xiya and the other two were stunned into silence.

    The people gathered at the studio door couldn''t hold back anymore. Exmations and discussions instantly erupted into an uproar.

    Li Zhen only then noticed how many people were blocking the door.

    Li Zhen: ...

    The sun was especially harsh today.

    If only it could be more scorching.

    And send her away for good!

    Li Zhen''s temples throbbed as she sighed weakly, "She''s my ex-wife! Yu Sheng, could you be more precise with your words? She''s my ex-wife!"

    Crowd: ...

    Zhao Yan: ...

    Zhang Xiya and friends: ...

    The previously noisy crowd instantly fell silent again.

    The chattering voices of over a dozen people stopped abruptly.

    Their emotions had risen and fallen so quickly.

    In just a few seconds, they went from thinking the two had a rtionship, to thinking they were married, to finding out they were divorced?

    They hadn''t even fully digested the bombshell gossip before the next one came crashing down on them!

    Fei Zhao silently gave Li Zhen a thumbs up, then nced at the man beside him. The young master''s expression hadn''t softened one bit, still brooding like ink.

    The next second, Fei Zhao saw the young master stride towards Yu Sheng.

    Fei Zhao was thrilled!

    Go for it, young master!

    p the marriage certificate in that man''s face!

    Li Zhen noticed everyone out of the corner of her eye.

    She suddenly saw someone heading her way inrge strides.

    When did Lu Yanming get here?

    Li Zhen thought this was bad and quickly sent Lu Yanming a message, [Don''t say anything, okay? It''s chaotic enough!]

    Hearing the sound, Lu Yanming took out his phone and saw the message. He paused mid-step.

    Li Zhen breathed a sigh of relief.

    But just two secondster, Lu Yanming headed over again.

    Only now did the gossip-lovers notice Lu Yanming''s presence!

    Ahhhhhhh!

    The male lead of the CP they shipped had arrived!

    Li Zhen: ...

    Don''te over! I''m scared!

    Li Zhen''s rejecting expression was so obvious that Lu Yanming sighed lightly in his heart and didn''t say anything after all.

    Carrying the insted lunch box, he walked past the two, bumping Yu Sheng''s shoulder as he went by without avoiding him.

    It wasn''t a light bump.

    Yu Sheng staggered forward a step.

    "Be careful." Li Zhen instinctively steadied Yu Sheng.

    Lu Yanming''s gaze fixed on where their hands and arms touched.

    He stopped and said, "President Yu, if your health is so poor, why mimic others trying to y hero?"

    Fei Zhao: ...

    How sour, yet he says nothing!

    Men always mind being called weak. Li Zhen retorted, "President Yu is injured."

    Lu Yanming pulled Yu Sheng''s arm from Li Zhen''s hand, steadying him. "President Yu, she''s your ex-wife, you should avoid impropriety."

    Yu Sheng''s gaze darkened, about to speak.

    But Lu Yanming had already walked past the two.

    However, his pants leg was suddenly grabbed by someone.

    He looked down.

    Lin Si was pulling him and shouting, "President Lu, stop him, President Yu wants to hit people!"

    Right after Lin Si finished yelling,

    Fei Zhao kicked towards Lin Si''s chest.

    Lin Si reeled backwards, releasing Lu Yanming''s pants leg.

    The crushing, shattering pain in his five viscera six bowels made Lin Si spit out a mouthful of blood with a "pu" sound.

    The people gathered at the studio door collectively gaped, their throats too frightened to make a sound.

    Fei Zhao withdrew his leg, ncing arrogantly at Lin Si, "No manners, grabbing any man''s pants?"

    Li Zhen: ...

    She felt Fei Zhao''s kick might be more painful than Yu Sheng hitting with a chair.

    Seeing Lin Si''s half-dead state, Yu Sheng also stayed his hand.

    Ren Zongshun came to his senses and secretly called emergency services.

    No one had the mind to gossip anymore, all staring in shock at Lin Si on the ground.

    After this incident, Li Zhen''s stomach hurt even more, sweat kept pouring out ceaselessly.

    Yu Sheng''s brows knitted together, too familiar with this expression of hers. "Is it your period making your stomach hurt again?"

    Behind the two, Lu Yanming sat down nonchntly, the insted lunch box he carried half ced, half flung onto the table with a "bang" sound.

    Fei Zhao: ... There''s no need to take it out on the lunch box, is there?

    Fei Zhao was also holding a ratherrge insted food carrier, cing it next to the table.

    Li Zhen could barely make out what Yu Sheng was saying anymore.

    Her vision went white in patches, her legs suddenly losing strength.

    Yu Sheng raised a hand to steady her.

    But he grasped at nothing.

    At some point, Lu Yanming had stood up and elegantly swept Li Zhen into his arms bridal-style. His deep voice was casually indifferent, "It''s already very rude to falsely im someone''s wife, further inappropriate touching would be too presumptuous, President Yu."

    After speaking, Lu Yanming turned and left.

    Yu Sheng''s eyes darkened as he followed along.

    Fei Zhao stood in his way, blocking Yu Sheng, "President Yu, don''t force yourself, your wounds can''t take more turmoil."

    Having said that, Fei Zhao nced at the dumbstruck people at the door.

    What were those three called again?

    Qiao Yi.

    He only remembered those two characters of the name.

    "Qiao Yi, I also brought food for you three in the lunch box, go ahead and eat." Fei Zhao called out, then hurriedly followed after Lu Yanming.

    Yu Sheng''s gaze shimmered faintly.

    Qiao Yi.

    Lu Yanming had likely taken Li Zhen to the hospital for Qiao Yi''s sake.

    She often fainted during her period before, it was nothing major and she''d recover after a short while.

    Yu Sheng''s phone rang at this moment. He picked up and Yu Yang immediately roared, "Bro! You went to work again! Come back quickly and change your bandages!"

    "Alright." Yu Sheng wearily responded.

    Yu Sheng had Zhao Yan drive to Jinlu Courtyard.

    Lin Si was taken away in an ambnce.

    Everyone who had just been gossiping fervently was gone.

    The scene instantly exploded.

    The frantic discussion didn''t stop for even a second.

    "I can''t believe Li Zhen was once with President Yu."

    "Did you guys notice earlier? President Yu who seems aloof and remote is actually a doting husband fanatic! What a contrast, I didn''t expect that!"

    "Was his wife, is his ex-wife now..."

    "How could any woman bear to leave President Yu? If it were me, I''d die before divorcing him!"

    "But what if there was another option like President Lu..."

    The one who just said she couldn''t bear leaving fell silent.

    President Lu!

    Ahhh!

    That waist, those legs, incredible!

    "Ahhhhh I love President Lu! I love how gentle and refined President Lu is!"

    "You''re just lusting after President Lu''s body..."

    "Hahahahaha..."

    "President Lu''s princess carry just now was overflowing with boyfriend vibes! So sweet!"

    "I''m so envious, I''m tired of saying it. I just want Li Zhen to share President Lu''s pleasurable experiences!"

    "Me too! If I can''t have him, hearing about it will do!"

    Everyone was gossiping.

    Only Zhang Xiya, Qiao Yi and Meng Yuanjie were silently opening the lunch boxes, silently eating.

    They had always adapted quickly. They had already recovered from the bombshell gossip that Li Zhen and President Yu were once married.

    What they worried about now was if this marriage being dug up would really incur massive breach of contract penalties.

    Unable to pay meant jail time.

    After a long while, Meng Yuanjie finally spoke up, "I''ve saved about 200,000 over the years, but I can ask my dad and uncle for more, lying it''s to buy a car. I estimate getting another 40-50,000 from them."

    "I usually live paycheck to paycheck, with no savings, but my mom has 300,000 set aside for my dowry. I''ll first have my mom give it to me." Zhang Xiya didn''t look too worried.

    She figured, at worst it was just losing money and changing jobs.

    Little Li Zhen didn''t like this job to begin with.

    Meng Yuanjie eximed, "Tricking your dowry out, your mom would break your legs!"

    "I didn''t n on marrying anyway, doesn''t matter." Zhang Xiya shrugged.

    Qiao Yi stayed silent.

    She quietly calcted that if Li Zhen really had to pay breach of contract damages, she would sell the apartment.

    If not for Li Zhen''s risky candid shots, she wouldn''t have gotten that apartment in the first ce.

 Chapter 113: Itâ€™s good to Brag.

    <h4>Chapter 113</h4>

    Li Zhen still didn''t know that her friends were all racking their brains thinking of ways to raise money for her.

    Shey in bed, slowly waking up.

    Looking around, this was Huayan''s prestigious home.

    Beside the bed, more than ten doctors stared at her solemnly.

    Li Zhen: ......

    Li Zhen: "Are you all performing some strange ritual on me?"

    No one paid her any attention.

    No one paid her any attention at all.

    The doctors only turned around in pleasant surprise and said, "Mr. Lu, Ms. Li is awake."

    Lu Yanming had been sitting in a chair looking through Li Zhen''s various medical reports. He immediately got up and walked to the bedside.

    "How are you feeling now?" Lu Yanming sat down beside her, and the edge of the bed sank slightly.

    "Fainting during my period is very normal for me, I''ll be fine after a little while." Li Zhen knew he was making a fuss over nothing.

    Calling so many doctors over.

    What Li Zhen said was the same as the doctors.

    Lu Yanming let out a breath in relief, waved his hand, and the doctors immediately left the room.

    "How could your health be taken care of so poorly?" Lu Yanming''s tone was dissatisfied as he helped prop her up to sit leaning against the edge of the bed, and handed her a cup of hot water, "Drink some water."

    Li Zhen moved a little, only to realize there was a furry nket covering her, and a hot water bottle on her stomach keeping her warm.

    The central air conditioner showed it was set to 25 degrees Celsius, the mostfortable temperature for the human body.

    She took the hot water and sipped it slowly, "Mr. Lu, thank you."

    Lu Yanming lowered his eyes, took off his gold rimmed sses, and ced them on the bedside table, "It''s really unfair."

    Lu Yanming''s suddenint made Li Zhen pause in motion, "What''s wrong?"

    "You call Yu Sheng by his name," Lu Yanming raised his eyes to look at her, "But you call me Mr. Lu, so proper."

    Li Zhen was stared at until her heart skipped a beat.

    When Lu Yanming took off his sses, those eyes were simply too much to look at directly.

    They were the kind of eyes that even dogs would think were deeply affectionate.

    Yet also carried a sharpness that was not usually noticeable.

    The pressure was maxed out.

    Li Zhen didn''t dare to look him in the eye, and smiled perfunctorily, "Mr. Lu, you are of higher status and authority, of course I have to address you as Mr. Lu."

    "Then you''re not allowed to call him by name anymore either, call him Mr. Yu too."

    Li Zhen: ......

    What a strange request.

    Li Zhen didn''t say yes, nor did she say no. She put down the water cup, wanting to get up from the bed, "It''s gettingte, I should get back to the photography studio."

    She had really slipped away from work twice already this morning.

    "No need, I''ve asked for you to have the day off." Lu Yanming said lightly.

    Li Zhen obedientlyy back down.

    Alright then.

    Today was a totalzy day.

    She had justin down when her cell phone on the bedside table rang. She picked up and held it to her ear, "Hello?"

    Old Master Li: "Zhen''er, didn''t you say you were going to bring that person for me to meet soon? Howe there''s been no movement?"

    Li Zhen had forgotten because she and Lu Yanming were having a disagreement recently, "Grandpa, wait a minute..."

    Li Zhen covered the phone and quietly asked Lu Yanming, "Mr. Lu, are you free these days?"

    "I am." Lu Yanming said softly.

    Li Zhen: ......

    She hadn''t even told him what she needed yet.

    Li Zhen: "My grandfather wants to meet some of my good friends recently, could you make time to go with me?"

    Lu Yanming''s normally calm expression visibly showed a trace of nervousness, "Meet grandfather? But..."

    Li Zhen pursed her lips, ming herself for overstepping.

    Since they weren''t really going to spend their whole lives as husband and wife, of course Lu Yanming was unwilling to meet her family with her.

    Lu Yanming''s nervousness onlysted a moment, before he regained his calm and nobleposure, "But I don''t have a proper gift prepared."

    Li Zhen''s eyes lit up, "It''s fine, it''s fine, it''s just a meal."

    Once Old Master Li knew the other party had agreed, he immediately requested to meet today.

    Li Zhen arranged it at a restaurant with very high privacy.

    Before going out, Li Zhen pulled Lu Yanming into the wardrobe room.

    She kept talking non-stop.

    "Mr. Lu, try this outfit!"

    "No, no, this outfit is too dull."

    "Then try on that set..."

    "This set is too young, no good, change again."

    Li Zhen wanted her grandfather to see Lu Yanming and feel at ease.

    Lu Yanming''s figure was already a walking clothes hanger.

    When Li Zhen finally chose the suit she was most satisfied with.

    It had to be said.

    She was stunned.

    "Zhen Zhen, you''re making me a little nervous like this." Lu Yanming walked to the storage cab, chose a watch that matched the style of the suit, then chose a set of diamond cufflinks and put them on one by one, "Are you worried I won''t measure up?"

    Li Zhen looked him up and down in this getup as a graceful gentleman of a prestigious family, extremely pleased, "Mr. Lu, so handsome! How could you possibly not measure up!"

    When grandfather sees him like this, he''ll definitely fall for him in a second!

    Love him to death!

    After all, this would be the temte for his future great-grandson.

    The two got in the car and arrived at the private kitchen''s door, where Fei Zhao pulled up in another Maybach.

    Fei Zhao got out of the car and opened the door, "Young Master, everything is ready."

    Lu Yanming nodded slightly.

    Li Zhen was a little confused, "What did you guys prepare?"

    Lu Yanming chuckled lightly without answering, only gently took Li Zhen''s hand and held it in his palm, "Zhen Zhen, if I don''t perform well, just kick me under the table and I''ll correct it."

    Lu Yanming looked far too solemn.

    Li Zhen retracted her hand casually and said, "Don''t worry Mr. Lu, it''s just a simple meal..."

    Fei Zhao on the side rubbed his hands excitedly.

    Finally, the Young Master is meeting the parents!

    Was this not another step closer on the long road?

    Fei Zhao was happy for the Young Master when suddenly three voices rang out.

    "Li Zhen!"

    "Little Zhen Zhen!"

    "Mr. Lu."

    Qiao Yi, Zhang Xiya, and Meng Yuanjie smiled as they stood behind the two.

    Zhang Xiya happily threw her arms around Li Zhen, "Little Zhen Zhen, your grandfather is so nice to invite all of us to eat, being your friend is such a blessing."

    Lu Yanming: ......

    Fei Zhao: ......

    Fei Zhao lowered his head, not daring to look at the Young Master''s expression.

    He thought it was just him meeting the parents alone today.

    But instead...

    Li Zhen called to Fei Zhao, "Assistant Fei, let''s go, youe along too."

    "Me?" Fei Zhao nced at the Young Master.

    Lu Yanming: "One more or less doesn''t make a difference."

    The Young Master''s tone was nothing short of frigid.

    Fei Zhao shrank his neck and followed them in.

    Zhang Xiya sent messages in their small group chat as they walked in.

    Zhang Xiya: [Something''s fishy about this meal today.]

    Meng Yuanjie: [Let''s think through what''s happened today. Li Zhen and Mr. Yu are already in the past, I guess today is her grandfather assessing Mr. Lu...]

    Qiao Yi: [I think so too.]

    Zhang Xiya: [Then what should we do for this meal?]

    Qiao Yi: [Just praise Mr. Lu, that''s right...]

 Chapter 114: Rule this one out First

    <h4>Chapter 114</h4>

    Old Master Li looked at the smooth marble wall in the private room like a mirror.

    "Ah, I''m still as handsome as I was when I was young!" After admiring himself in the mirror for eight hundred times, Old Master Li finally sat down satisfied and waited for his granddaughter.

    Although Li Zhen said he was just a sperm donor, anyone she would choose couldn''t be too bad.

    No more talk online: sperm donors are heartless, but feelings grow over time.

    What if they ended up together?

    As Old Master Li was lost in thought, the door of the private room opened.

    Li Zhen walked in first, followed by her friends.

    Not having seen her grandfather for many days, Li Zhen happily threw herself into his arms, "Grandpa..."

    "There, there..." Old Master Li perfunctorily hugged Li Zhen for a second before pushing her aside, craning his neck eagerly to look at the people behind. "Hello, hello everyone."

    Li Zhen, pushed aside: ...

    Everyone greeted warmly, "Hello, Grandpa."

    Old Master Li was stunned.

    Which one was it!

    Three men came in.

    This girl really! To avoid making the sperm donor too obvious, she had to bring so many people.

    Lu Yanming stepped forward, "Grandpa, hello."

    As soon as Old Master Li saw him, his eyes lit up instantly.

    This man stood out too much with his chiseled features and refined temperament. Wearing a pair of schrly gold-rimmed sses, his eyes were elegant and spirited.

    Old Master Li immediately judged: he could rule out this one first.

    Someone so outstanding wouldn''t be willing to be Li Zhen''s sperm donor.

    "Hello." Having said that, Old Master Li hurriedly let go of Lu Yanming''s hand.

    Lu Yanming: ...

    Old Master Li sized up Meng Yuanjie and Fei Zhao. Both were quite handsome, but eventually his gaze settled on Fei Zhao, who was better dressed in a suit.

    Old Master Li excitedly grabbed Fei Zhao''s hand, "Young man, you look very healthy! And handsome too! Not bad, not bad at all. What''s your surname? How many in your family...?"

    "My surname is Fei..." Fei Zhao was stiff as a rod, and looked over at his young master''s expression.

    Lu Yanming red at him, his eyes dark and gloomy, striking fear into people''s hearts.

    Fei Zhao nearly cried.

    Old Master wasn''t praising him, he was sealing his doom!

    Fei Zhao quickly pulled Lu Yanming''s hand to join Old Master Li''s, "Grandpa, this is my boss, Mr. Lu! Young and promising, from a prestigious family, pleasant looking..."

    Those were the only words Fei Zhao could think of.

    Old Master Li shook Lu Yanming''s hand tightly, "Young boss, you lead Fei well, and have cultivated him into quite an outstanding person! Thank you!"

    Fei Zhao: ...I''m done for!

    As soon as Li Zhen heard this, she knew her grandfather had got the wrong person. She was at a loss.

    Zhang Xiya and the other two exchanged amused looks, enjoying the rare sight of their boss''s rich expressions.

    Old Master Li sat down and pulled Fei Zhao to sit beside him.

    Fei Zhao felt like he was sitting on pins and needles. He popped right back up, pulling Lu Yanming over, "Young Master, please sit."

    Hearing this form of address, Old Master Li''s gaze flickered over Lu Yanming imperceptibly.

    Young Master.

    Such a form of address was usually only used in century-old prestigious families.

    And the family would have to maintain prosperity and glory for generations, to have loyal servants who were born and raised to serve the family all their lives.

    Also called home-born servants.

    Old Master Li sighed inwardly. Although Fei was just a home-born servant, getting involved with a prestigious family was extremelyplicated.

    The Yu Family was a typical example back then.

    But as long as Li Zhen was happy with her choice, that was all that mattered.

    Old Master Li beckoned everyone to sit down, then pped his forehead, suddenly realizing he had forgotten to order first amidst the excitement of waiting for them.

    "It''s alright, Grandpa. This gives us more time to chat." Qiao Yi quickly cated him.

    "That''s right, that''s right!" Zhang Xiya nodded.

    Lu Yanming picked up the teapot and poured tea for Old Master Li, "Grandpa, the dishes have already been ordered."

    "When did you order them?" Li Zhen asked, surprised.

    "When I went to confirm the private room earlier." Lu Yanming put down the teapot and said gently, "Grandpa, I don''t know your tastes, so I ordered a variety. Li Zhen loves sweet and sour vors, so I made sure to order extra Cantonese dishes."

    Old Master Li sensed something was up.

    The way this man addressed her as Li Zhen, could it be...

    Qiao Yi quickly signaled to the other two with her eyes: Time to praise him!

    Zhang Xiya instantly got the cue: "Oh my, nothing less expected from the Vice President of our Honghai Group. So thoughtful!"

    "Right, Mr. Lu knows Li Zhen''s tastes so well, how attentive and considerate!" Meng Yuanjie praised effusively.

    Li Zhen: ...Your tones are too exaggerated! How awkward!

    Lu Yanming pushed up the gold-rimmed sses on his straight nose, seamlessly joining in their ttery. "Li Zhen is delicate. I naturally have to pay extra attention, or she''d be unhappy if something went wrong..."

    Li Zhen: ???

    What nonsense is he spewing, idly babbling away.

    Why does it sound like we have some extraordinary rtionship, really close or something!

    I told Grandpa we only have a biological connection.

    Just physical!

    No mental or spiritual connection!

    If Old Master Li still couldn''t make it out, he''d have lived in vain.

    "Li Zhen,e out with Grandpa for a bit." He got up and pulled Li Zhen outside.

    Outside the private room.

    Old Master Li looked pained, "Li Zhen! Isn''t that Mr. Lu your sperm donor!"

    Sperm donor?

    What an awful term.

    She would never admit it!

    Li Zhen: "He is..."

    Grandpa''s wording was too urate, denial was futile.

    Old Master Li: "A man like him is outstanding and scheming in every way. You must be..."

    "I''ll be careful around him, Grandpa."

    "Hold onto him tight!"

    Li Zhen was stunned: "Huh?"

    "A man like him must have countless admirers. Li Zhen, women must use some tactics too. He''s a good one, you have to try harder! Can''t let him get away!" Old Master Li advised in earnest.

    Never mind what prestigious family or young master.

    Her Li Zhen was good enough!

    Li Zhen was at a loss for words, "Grandpa, we have a very pure rtionship, not asplicated as you think..."

    -

    At dinner, Lu Yanming somehow had endless conversation topics, making Old Master Liugh delightedly.

    Zhang Xiya and the other two NPCs chimed in with ttery, praising Old Master Li one moment and creativelyplimenting Lu Yanming from all 360 angles the next.

    Fei Zhao had to step out briefly for something.

    Li Zhen was like an outsider, barely speaking a few sentences.

    After the meal, Lu Yanming saw Old Master Li off to the Li family car waiting for him, and passed the gifts prepared in advance to the driver.

    When Lu Yanming returned, Li Zhen and Zhang Xiya''s group were justing out of the private room.

    Zhang Xiya clung to Li Zhen''s arm, basking in shared sess, "Little Li Zhen, how did we do today?"

    Li Zhen nodded: "Very good!"

    Although they overpraised Lu Yanming, the effect was excellent. Grandpa was very reassured about her current state and wouldn''t worry about her.

    After settling the bill, Lu Yanming came up to them and said, "Thank you everyone today. Assistant Fei has prepared gifts for you all, waiting in the parking lot. I hope the gifts match your kindness."

    Li Zhen: "Wait, Mr. Lu, why are you giving them gifts? They won''t ept gifts from you..."

    "Thank you Mr. Lu!" Not having received a gift in ages, Meng Yuanjie was instantly excited.

    If he had known there were gifts, he could have performed even better at dinner!

    Li Zhen: ...

    "Thank you Mr. Lu!" Zhang Xiya and Qiao Yi chorused as well, flying off eagerly towards the parking lot.

    Li Zhen: ...

    With everything settled, Lu Yanming leaned down slightly and kissed the still stunned Li Zhen.

    The kiss jolted Li Zhen back to her senses, and her face turned red in a sh. "Mr. Lu, you..."

    "How was my performance today?" Lu Yanming''s maic voice was low and proud, like a top student expecting praise for acing a test. "Li Zhen, I want a reward when we get home too."

 Chapter 115: About to Have a Heart Attack

    <h4>Chapter 115</h4>

    "Reward" triggered some memories.

    Li Zhen''s hand suddenly felt very sore!

    Scary, scary!

    She took a step back, "Mr. Lu, I don''t have anything good to reward you with, so I''ll go home first."

    Lu Yanming wanted to reach out and grab her.

    Li Zhen had already run away quickly.

    She wouldn''t be able to go back to Huayang Famous Door until the end of the month.

    The next day, Li Zhen went to the film and television city first, then went back to the Honghai headquarters to get some information.

    From the moment she entered the building, her eyes never stopped following her.

    Wherever she went, there was always whispering behind her.

    "She''s President Yu''s ex-wife?"

    "Yeah, the hand model from the advertising department."

    "If I had known President Yu''s standards were so low, I would have rushed for it too!"

    "The two of them will probably both be fired..."

    "What a pity, President Yu got dragged down by this woman."

    "It''s really not worth it for a small hand model, President Yu is confused!"

    Li Zhen was toozy to pay any attention to them.

    After getting the information from the advertising department, Li Zhen suddenly received a call from Wang Peng''s assistant, asking her to go to Wang Peng''s office.

    When she pushed open the door,

    Wang Peng was sitting on the sofa, looking worriedly conflicted while drinking tea.

    Jiang Keyan sat ramrod straight to one side, puffing out her chest and looking haughtily at Li Zhen walking in.

    Seeing this situation, Li Zhen''s heart thumped.

    The inevitable had arrived.

    Jiang Keyan turned her head, "President Wang, Li Zhen is here. Regarding the matter I just discussed with you, you can notify Li Zhen directly now, right?"

    "Wait, let''s confirm it again when President Yu gets here with both parties present." Wang Peng irritably scratched the little hair he had left.

    Putting his hand down, he saw another strand of hair had left him, quietly lying in his palm.

    Oh no, he didn''t want Yu Sheng to leave!

    Otherwise there would be even less of his hair left.

    "President Wang, these were all admitted in front of everyone by President Yu yesterday. He and Li Zhen used to be husband and wife. You can''t be trying to cover for them!" Jiang Keyan continued questioning.

    Wang Peng was just thinking about how to stall for time.

    Li Zhen slowly sat down across from the two, and opened her mouth, "I''ll leave, and I''ll pay the penalty too."

    Li Zhen''s light words made Wang Peng and Jiang Keyan both stunned for a moment.

    "Did you...forget about the contract you signed? You''re a signed model, the penalty is not low..." Wang Peng hurriedly reminded her.

    How could Li Zhen possibly forget.

    This had been a sword hanging over her neck for a long time.

    But ever since Li Yinnan agreed to give her shares for getting pregnant, she suddenly felt enlightened.

    With shares, the penalty would not seem like much.

    Leaving early would allow her to be free of this sooner rather thanter, so there was nothing bad about it.

    So when Yu Sheng blurted out their rtionship yesterday, she wasn''t worried about this matter either.

    Li Zhen looked calm, "President Wang, I ept being dismissed and leaving thepany, but there are two things I''d like to request from thepany."

    Jiang Keyan excitedly pinched her own palm.

    It was this easy!

    She thought Li Zhen would try to deny it, or find someone to help her, after all Li Zhen had to pay over 2 million in penalty fees. She didn''t expect Li Zhen to not struggle at all.

    She could finally avenge her sister!

    The rules were the rules, there was no other way, so Wang Peng nodded, "Go ahead..."

    "First, I request postponing the penalty fee by two months, but I will pay ate penalty for the dy."

    "Second..."

    Li Zhen paused, "President Wang, President Yu has been more of a contributor than a detriment to thepany. I hope thepany can be lenient in considering President Yu''s continued employment."

    She didn''t like this job, so leaving was no big deal to her.

    But Yu Sheng valued this work so highly, he definitely wouldn''t be able to ept leaving.

    Wang Peng hurriedly nodded, this was exactly what he wanted, "Of course..."

    "There''s no need for that." Yu Sheng''s voice suddenly appeared at the door.

    He nced at Li Zhen, then looked to Wang Peng, "President Wang, I submitted my resignation yesterday morning. You already signed it yesterday, don''t you remember?"

    Li Zhen: ...

    Jiang Keyan: ...

    Wang Peng: ...

    Wang Peng was stunned. Were the documents he signed for Yu Sheng yesterday his resignation?

    He trusted Yu Sheng so much that he barely even looked at the contents before signing recently.

    He was finished, his carelessness at work was also exposed, and his capable subordinate had also left him?

    Heartache!

    He felt like he was about to have a heart attack!

    Yu Sheng''s gaze was slightly tired, but his words still rang with the innate authority of one high above others, "President Wang, ording topany rules, after one person has left, the rtionship between two people is water under the bridge, so Li Zhen doesn''t need to leave or pay the penalty."

    "You care so much about this job, why did you resign?" Li Zhen blurted out without thinking.

    "Didn''t I tell you that day, I was tired and wanted to take a break." Yu Sheng''s voice softened, and the usual sharpness in his eyes dissipated somewhat as he gently said, "You didn''t object at the time, so I thought you agreed."

    Li Zhen: ...Why would I need to agree to your matters!

    At that time she hadn''t even processed that he was talking about work.

    Wang Peng covered his heart, "President Yu, I was a little fuzzy yesterday, can we pretend it didn''t happen?!"

    Yu Sheng''s detached gaze fell on Li Zhen as he continued in a slow and deep voice, "President Wang, I still have some personal matters to arrange next, so I do need to leave Honghai. But I will stay at thepany for one more month to properly hand over my work."

    "But...ah..." Wang Peng sighed, feeling intermittent pain in his chest.

    Yu Sheng sat down and smoothly took off his high quality coat, deftly handing it to Li Zhen: "Help me put this in my office. You can go out first."

    Wang Peng''s gaze shifted back and forth between the two.

    He wouldn''t have imagined it...wouldn''t have imagined it.

    The wife Yu Sheng used to mention every three sentences when chatting leisurely, turned out to be her.

    But how did they get divorced...

    Looking at them, they did seem quite well matched.

    Wang Peng really didn''t understand young people these days.

    Li Zhen understood that Yu Sheng knew she didn''t want to stay here, and was looking for an excuse to let her leave.

    "Alright, President Yu." She epted it with a respectful tone.

    Their past rtionship was already widely known. Going to his office no longer weighed on her mentally.

    Li Zhen''s tone was too distant.

    Hearing it, Yu Sheng''s brow slightly furrowed.

    Her attitude towards him recently had seemed a little off.

    While Yu Sheng was still discussing details with Wang Peng in the office.

    Jiang Keyan followed Li Zhen out, looking at Li Zhen withplex emotions, her mrs nearly ground to dust.

    In the end she didn''t say anything, just turned and left.

    Li Zhen put away Yu Sheng''s coat after helping him, then walked out of the Honghai building, standing at the roadside and looking back at it.

    It was pretty good that after divorcing her, Yu Sheng suddenly gained a lot more openness and understood work wasn''t everything.

    Hopefully he wouldn''t be like her again in his next rtionship.

    Abruptly over.

    When Li Zhen returned to the photography studio, she had just walked in when Zhang Xiya and two others surrounded her.

    "Little Zhen Zhen? Did President Yu really resign?"

    "Thepany is willing to let him go?"

    "It''s because he resigned yesterday that he was able to say your rtionship without caring for repercussions, right?"

    Only then did Li Zhen find out that Yu Sheng''s resignation was already spread through thepany.

    The three of them surrounded Li Zhen and asked her a whole bunch of questions before reluctantly leaving for their photoshoot.

    Li Zhen finally got some peace and quiet when Ai Ru, Dong Wanwan''s assistant, came looking for her.

    "Hey, I have something going on tonight so I won''t be around. You stay at a hotel tonight, and go to Wanwan whenever she needs someone." Ai Ru spoke to Li Zhen while looking down at her.

    She had been fooled by Li Zhen into a daze that day, really thinking she was some important figure.

    After asking around yesterday, she found out Li Zhen was merely a small hand model.

    Who was she to put on airs to her!

 Chapter 116: Live Where You Live

    <h4>Chapter 116</h4>

    Ai Ru stuffed two room cards into Li Zhen''s hands, "The room numbers are on them, one is mine, the other is my neighbor Wanwan''s."

    Before Li Zhen could finish speaking, Ai Ru had already left with her bag on her back.

    Li Zhen: ...

    After the two artists finished shooting, Li Zhen also prepared to leave.

    It''s not like Dong Wanwan doesn''t have functioning limbs. What''s the big deal about staying alone for one night?

    Could it be that she really has been spoiled into a pea princess by Zhou Chaowen, bing so delicate like this?

    Just as Li Zhen was about to leave, she received a text message from Zhou Chaowen, "Sis Zhen, has Wanwan''s shooting been going smoothly these past two days? She usually has weak self-care abilities, please take good care of her, Sis Zhen. Thank you for the trouble!"

    Li Zhen: ...

    It seems Dong Wanwan has indeed been spoiled silly.

    Zhou Chaowen treats his wife too well!

    Considering Zhou Chaowen had always treated her decently before, Li Zhen returned to the hotel.

    Anyway, it didn''t matter where she stayed.

    Li Zhen replied: "Got it, her assistant isn''t here today, and I''m staying next door, she''s fine, don''t worry."

    "Thank you, Sis Zhen."

    After putting away his phone, Zhou Chaowen looked at the person beside him, "Bro Sheng, Sis Zhen said she''s also staying at the studio tonight, it must be so boring over there. Why don''t we take Sis Zhen and Wanwan out for a midnight snack tonight?"

    Deep down, Zhou Chaowen still hoped that Yu Sheng could reconcile with Li Zhen.

    That vague, ethereal person who had saved Li Zhen was just a memory, but Bro Sheng had concretely treated Li Zhen well.

    Zhou Chaowen hoped that Li Zhen could be with the one who was best to her.

    Before Yu Sheng could speak, Yu Yang next to him was the first to open his mouth, "That''s a great idea, I miss my sister-inw too."

    Yu Yang was feeling pained remembering that his brother had been sick the past few days when Li Zhen was not around either.

    The two of them really went overboard this time.

    Yet his brother maintained an indifferent attitude.

    This made him anxious.

    -

    9 PM at the hotel

    After her shower, Dong Wanwan sat at the edge of the bed and beckoned, "Come here and blow dry my hair."

    "Coming, Sis Wanwan."

    Xiao Ning had showered first, with only a bath towel around his waist, revealing his fit upper body.

    He brought over the hairdryer and carefully blow dried Dong Wanwan''s hair for her.

    Xiao Ning stood while Dong Wanwan sat.

    Staring right at this male college student''s impressive asset, Dong Wanwan untied his towel and flicked it.

    Xiao Ning instantly blushed, "Sis Wanwan..."

    "You were pretty open yesterday, why be shy with your sister now!" Dong Wanwanughed.

    In fact, his size was not as long as Zhou Chaowen''s, but she just liked how bashful these young studs could be.

    "You''re so beautiful, Sis, I get shy when I see you." Xiao Ning deliberately said sweetly.

    "Don''t be shy, sister will be gentle with you!" Dong Wanwan didn''t even finish blow drying her hair.

    She pulled Xiao Ning into bed with one hand.

    At 10 PM, three used condomsy on the floor.

    "Once more, Xiao Ning." Dong Wanwan panted.

    Xiao Ning''s face had turned pale white.

    He forced a trembling smile, "Sis Wanwan, don''t you need to shoot tomorrow? Why not rest early?"

    "Useless thing!" The moment Dong Wanwan heard this, her expression instantly changed, "Weren''t you still going strong yesterday, it''s only been an hour today and you came 3 times already! What''s wrong, am I serving you, or are you serving me!"

    Xiao Ning was terrified, "Sorry Sis! Give me a moment to recover, right away!"

    "Buzzkill!" Dong Wanwan scoffed in displeasure. "Hurry up!"

    Fumbling in the dark, Xiao Ning got off the bed.

    He took some pills from his bag and swallowed them.

    Yesterday and that time at the bar, he had also taken pills, otherwise he could not havested that long either.

    Xiao Ning''s previously obsequious expression vanished as he sinisterly stared at the TV''s position.

    That was where he had installed a hidden camera when he first arrived yesterday.

    With this footage, he could easily ckmail for at least a few hundred thousand. With just this video, he would never have to serve another woman again!

    After the pills, Xiao Ning instantly reacted!

    He climbed back into bed and had just kissed Dong Wanwan when knocks sounded at the door.

    "Wanwan, open the door..."

    Dong Wanwan''s entire body stiffened!

    Zhou Chaowen hade!

    In almost a second, Dong Wanwan bounced out of bed and dialed Ai Ru''s number, "Ai Ru! Hurry hurry hurry! Come to my door and get rid of my husband!"

    Upon hearing the word "husband", Xiao Ning''s face grew even paler.

    Ai Ru realized something major had gone wrong, "But...but I''m not here today. It''s that hand model from Honghai called Li Zhen next door..."

    Dong Wanwan was so shocked her body went limp.

    Could it be she would truly be caught by Zhou Chaowen today!

    "That''s it, that''s it!" Ai Ru suddenly thought of something, "The balconies are connected, hurry and go over to the neighbor''s..."

    Dong Wanwan''s eyes lit up!

    She knew what to do now.

    Hanging up the call, she slipped on a nightgown and headed for the balcony.

    Zhou Chaowen at the door kept knocking, "Wanwan, I heard sounds inside, what are you doing, hurry and open the door..."

    Xiao Ning grabbed Dong Wanwan, "Sis Wanwan! I''ll go with you."

    Dong Wanwan: "No! You..."

    She whispered into Xiao Ning''s ear.

    -

    Li Zhen was sleeping soundly when she was suddenly lifted up head first. The nauseating vertigo nearly made her vomit.

    "Who! Let me go!" Li Zhen quickly regained consciousness and bit down on the ear of the person carrying her.

    "Ah!" Xiao Ning let out a muffled shriek.

    Li Zhen had bitten viciously, filling her mouth with the taste of blood.

    The next second.

    With a "ssh", she was flung over the balcony.

    Her battered body ached all over, and Li Zhen momentarily lost consciousness.

    After throwing Li Zhen over, Xiao Ning swiftly vaulted over the balcony himself, picked up Li Zhen off the floor and carried her into the bedroom, tossing her onto the bed.

    The knocks at the door clearly indicated the visitor''s waning patience, "Wanwan, hurry up, Bro Sheng and his little brother are waiting..."

    Hearing Zhou Chaowen''s voice in her hazy state, Li Zhen yelled loudly, "Yu..."

    She couldn''t get the shout out.

    Xiao Ning mped her mouth with one hand while trying to strip her nightgown with the other.

    "Bang!" Li Zhen smashed the telephone receiver on Xiao Ning''s head.

    When Li Zhen had been flung onto the balcony earlier, her internal organs were all aching. This blow didn''t hurt Xiao Ning one bit.

    Outside.

    Zhou Chaowenughed helplessly, "Bro Sheng, Wanwan is always slow to get ready, I don''t know what she''s doing inside."

    "Mm." Yu Sheng nodded without borating.

    Zhou Chaowen didn''t wait any longer and called Dong Wanwan, "Wanwan, where are you? I''ve been waiting at the door for several minutes already."

    The adjacent door suddenly opened, and Dong Wanwan appeared in her nightgown while still on the call, looking surprised, "Dear, Bro Sheng? You guys aren''t at my door, that''s Li Zhen''s room..."

    "Oh..." Zhou Chaowen scratched his head, "Then I must''ve remembered the wrong room number you told me yesterday."

    "Li Zhen didn''t let you guys in? An hour ago, Li Zhen took a man into her room, could he still be in there?" Dong Wanwan blinked innocently.

    "She took a man in?" Yu Sheng''s brow furrowed, his eyes icy cold.

 Chapter 117: Possessions

    <h4>Chapter 117</h4>

    Yu Sheng didn''t wait for Dong Wanwan to speak again. He already frowned gloomily and kicked the door open with a "bang".

    Seeing the scene inside, Yu Sheng was stunned.

    Never in his life had there been a moment when his blood surged like this.

    The lights in the room weren''t on.

    The light from the corridor shone into the room, illuminating a man lying on top of Li Zhen on the bed.

    Xiao Ning was trembling with fear at this time.

    He had just wiped away the bloodstains on both of them, and deliberately left a few ambiguous bite marks on the woman''s neck under him. Their clothes were only half taken off when the door was kicked open.

    Xiao Ning was just panicking and thinking randomly when his neck was already grabbed from behind.

    "Bang!"

    He was kicked and crashed into the wall.

    Spitting out a mouthful of blood, Xiao Ning shouted, "Wait, don''t hit me, she asked me toe..."

    "Go to hell and say it again!" Yu Sheng''s eyes were deep and dark, so cold that people couldn''t see the bottom at one nce. With one hand he picked up the deskmp.

    "Don''t, don''t, don''t!" Now Xiao Ning saw the killing intent in his eyes and didn''t dare pretend anymore. He was ready to tell the truth, "No, no, listen to me..."

    "You fucking deserve to talk to me!" Yu Sheng almost roared out.

    The temple veins bulged.

    He smashed the deskmp fiercely at the man on the ground.

    Immediately there was a muffled sound of metal colliding with bones in the room.

    Blood sttered.

    Red and shocking!

    Yu Yang and Zhou Chaowen were stunned at the door, unable to take a step into the room after seeing the situation inside.

    "Ah!" Dong Wanwan couldn''t help but scream and suddenly fainted.

    Yu Sheng turned to look at Li Zhen on the bed.

    Li Zhen was panicking and afraid, frantically pulling the quilt to cover herself, but the more flustered the more chaotic she became.

    She was just afraid that she would really be raped by the man, and that kind of despair of struggling fruitlessly made her fearful.

    The marks on her neck were ring.

    Yu Sheng''s eyes fell from her neck to the condom on the floor.

    Yu Yang and Zhou Chaowen at the door also saw the thing on the ground. They couldn''t believe it at all, their minds went nk.

    Yu Sheng suddenlyughed and said, "Li Zhen, did you enjoy it?"

    Li Zhen was still dazed from the fear just now and looked at Yu Sheng nkly.

    Yu Sheng repeated, "Li Zhen..."

    He suddenly raised his voice, "Did you fucking enjoy it!"

    Yu Sheng flipped away Li Zhen''s quilt on the bed, his fingers sping her arms like iron chains, and pulled her out from inside.

    Li Zhen''s nightgown was about to fall off as she staggered and was dragged into the bathroom.

    "Yu Sheng, what are you doing!"

    "Shut up!" Yu Sheng yelled as he threw her into the bathroom.

    Li Zhen''s shoulder hit the faucet on the wall, and the piercing pain instantly overwhelmed her. Her eyes were forced out physiological tears.

    Yu Sheng turned on the shower head, pressing Li Zhen''s back with one hand, squeezing her hard against the cold wall.

    With the shower head in one hand, he mercilessly sprayed her body.

    "Good for you! Good for you! You said you want a man, you really found a man!" Yu Sheng''s blood boiled all over his body, every inch of flesh and blood was like being torn apart alive.

    Anger came over him like a tidal wave, and his heart felt like it was being squeezed, unable to think!

    All actions and words could only rely on instinct.

    Li Zhen was pressed and unable to move, the same despair as when that man had just arrived. She sobered up from her previous trance and shouted, "Yu Sheng, let me go!"

    "Are you a whore who is sexually unsatisfied! You want a man, don''t you! Do you want me to find ten or a hundred men to fuck you!" Yu Sheng pressed her fiercely, his palms almost embedded in her flesh.

    Li Zhen was pressed tightly against the wall, her chestpressed and unable to breathe.

    "Brother, let go!" Yu Yang rushed in and pulled Yu Sheng away.

    Zhou Chaowen hurriedly took off his suit and put it on Li Zhen, "Sheng Bro, calm down first, calm down first!"

    With her freedom of movement, Li Zhen immediately turned around and pped Yu Sheng in the face.

    The p was too loud.

    Zhou Chaowen and Yu Yang were both shocked stiff.

    Li Zhen gritted her teeth and said word for word, "Yu Sheng, are you fucking retarded! I was almost raped just now, almost raped! And we''re divorced, are you getting high pretending to catch me cheating?"

    "Even divorced, you are still mine!" Yu Sheng roared, his eyes wide with rage.

    Li Zhen looked at Yu Sheng in disbelief.

    He still thought she belonged to him now?

    Li Zhen instantly deted, feeling utterly absurd. "Yu Sheng, I don''t belong to anyone, I belong to myself! Even if I''m promiscuous, even if I''m to be med, it''s none of a ex-husband''s business to show off his existence!"

    Li Zhen''s sudden calm made everyone feel wrong.

    Her next words made everyone incredulous.

    Li Zhen didn''t want Yu Sheng to absurdly continue to see her as his possession, and gritted her teeth, "If I really did something wrong, only my current husband has the right to me me."

    She didn''t care now if revealing Lu Yanming''s existence would get her fired by thepany. She had a feeling that Yu Sheng would kill her now!

    Her life was almost ruined!

    Yu Yang: ......

    Zhou Chaowen: ......

    Current husband, what does that mean?

    Impossible, how could Li Zhen remarry someone else.

    She liked Yu Sheng so much.

    Impossible!

    What current husband! Yu Sheng didn''t believe it at all.

    He dragged Li Zhen over and threw her into the bathtub. His speed was so fast that no one could react.

    Li Zhen''s whole body hit the bathtub. The pain made her gasp.

    Yu Sheng''s eyes were frighteningly red. He threw away Zhou Chaowen''s clothes on her, and was about to tear her nightgown again.

    "Since you want this man, don''t worry, I''ll send his ashes to you tomorrow to apany you for life!" Yu Sheng''s voice was cold and terrifying, tightly strained and hoarse to the extreme.

    Yu Sheng didn''t just want to tear her clothes, he wanted to tear open every inch of her skin that had been touched by that man.

    "Yu Sheng, don''t go crazy!" Li Zhen cried out, "Yu Yang, Zhou Chaowen!"

    Yu Yang and Zhou Chaowen were frightened by Yu Sheng''s madness.

    Li Zhen''s shout made the twoe to their senses and go to hold him back.

    Li Zhen staggered up, wrapped Zhou Chaowen''s suit around herself. Her body was still trembling uncontrobly, not knowing if it was from the cold or the pain.

    The pain was dense all over her body, no bone was intact.

    Her whole body felt almost numb. She couldn''t stand steadily and could only hold on to the wall. "Open your eyes and take a good look. Check whose room this is! Go check the surveince footage! You saw the condom on the ground, then check whose fluids are on it!"

    "Yu Sheng, let me tell you again, from the day we got the divorce certificate, the rtionship between you and me ispletely over!"

    "What do I have to say to make you believe! I did sleep with a man, but not today, it was long ago!"

    "Even if I sleep with ten or a hundred men, you have no right or standing to me me!"

    Yu Sheng''s palms were clenched in fists, his face was as gloomy as the sea, as if he was about to erupt into greater raging anger, so terrifying that one dare not look directly at him.

    Yu Yang listened with a trembling heart beside him.

    Let alone his brother not believing, even he didn''t believe it.

    Yu Yang knew Li Zhen was like the pupil of his brother''s eye, like that beating heart.

    Which day would the pupil say it wanted to leave?

    Impossible!

    She couldn''t leave, and his brother couldn''t let her leave either.

    Yu Yang wanted Li Zhen to stop talking. Talking more would only anger his brother further.

    He tried to stop her, "Sister Zhen, stop talking, just bow your head and admit your mistake..."

    "Admit mistake?" Li Zhenughed.

    So nobody believed what she just said!

    Fine!

    That''s just great!

    She''ll have Lu Yanminge now with their marriage certificate!

    Let''s see if they can believe it then!

    Let''s see if Yu Sheng can stop seeing her as his possession then!

    Li Zhen angrily grabbed her phone.

    She was going to call Lu Yanming.

    But...

    She didn''t have her phone on her.

    She couldn''t remember his number either.

    Li Zhen felt everything that happened today was simply preposterous!

    She bit her lip, forcing herself to not lose her calm. Her gaze swept around and she took Zhou Chaowen''s phone to dial the police station number.

    "Hello, I want to report an attempted rape on me, and someone wants to kill me!"

    She was going to send both Yu Sheng and that man on the floor to the police station!

    Li Zhen was still on the phone when the phone was suddenly snatched away by someone rushing in.

    "Don''t! Don''t call the police!" Dong Wanwan, who had just woken up from her faint, hurriedly disconnected the call.

 Chapter 118: If you donâ€™t hit her, I will.

    <h4>Chapter 118</h4>

    Zhou Chaowen narrowed his eyes and suddenly sensed that something was wrong. "Wanwan, you..."

    Dong Wanwan held her phone, looking both evasive and panicked.

    "So, this is your room, right? Did you find this man? And the contraceptives on the floor, did you use them with him?" Zhou Chaowen connected all the pieces that didn''t add up.

    Yu Sheng froze, his gaze fixed on Li Zhen.

    If she had really been intentionally assaulted just now, and he...

    Dong Wanwan knew that she couldn''t hide the truth any longer. She knelt down with a thud and said, "Husband, that man broke in by himself... I... I was assaulted by him."

    Xiao Ning, who had been pretending to be unconscious all this time, couldn''t hold back anymore and weakly said from the room towards the bathroom, "She told me to do it, and she came up with the idea for me to sleep with that woman. I installed a camera, you can see it..."

    Xiao Ning had truly exhausted her strength this time and fainted from excessive bleeding.

    Dong Wanwan''s face turned pale.

    She thought Xiao Ning was already dead.

    Zhou Chaowen remained surprisingly calm.

    He found that he didn''t feel any anger, just a bit upset about being cuckolded.

    In that split second, he understood even more why Sheng Ge had almost lost his mind in madness.

    Zhou Chaowen spoke calmly, "Let''s get a divorce. I''ll give you a billion, enough for you to live half a lifetime."

    But in just a second, Zhou Chaowen regretted it.

    It was Dong Wanwan who almost let Li Zhen get assaulted!

    Zhou Chaowen said, "No, leave empty-handed. I''m going to sue for divorce."

    Dong Wanwan''s heart sank rapidly.

    She clutched Zhou Chaowen''s thigh and cried out, "Husband, no, I won''t divorce you. Can you hit me, please? Husband, I can''t live without you. You can hit me and scold me, I don''t want a divorce!"

    Zhou Chaowen kicked her away with disdain, "Hit you? I don''t have the energy for that."

    "Husband, you can''t abandon me..." Dong Wanwan cried out in a hoarse voice, "Just now, Yu Sheng thought that Li Zhen slept with other men, and he only hit her, he didn''t say he didn''t want her! I beg you, husband, please hit me too, I won''t do it again!"

    "You''re the first person to ask to be hit by a man!" Li Zhen couldn''t bear it when she heard that Dong Wanwan had harmed her, "Chaowen, if you don''t hit her, then I will!"

    Li Zhen wasn''t asking, she was informing.

    Before Dong Wanwan could react...

    Li Zhen pped Dong Wanwan across the face...

    But there wasn''t even a sound.

    Li Zhen:...

    She had no strength left, her whole body ached, but she also felt numbness that made her ufortable.

    Forget it, she didn''t feel like moving.

    "I won''t hit you, you can go to the police station with Yu Sheng and that man!" Li Zhen snatched the phone back again and dialed the police number, "Hello..."

    Dong Wanwan hung up the phone again, but this time Li Zhen held it tightly and didn''t let it be snatched away.

    "Li Zhen, Li Jie! Don''t call the police, if you do, I''ll be ruined! I won''t be able to stay in the entertainment industry anymore." Dong Wanwan pleaded, kneeling and knocking her head on the ground. Tears fell with a pattering sound, and her makeup waspletely smeared on her face.

    Zhou Chaowen panicked, "Li Jie, Sheng Ge was just confused earlier, don''t call the police."

    Yu Yang anxiously said, "Yes, yes, my brother is injured, he can''t go in..."

    Yu Sheng remained silent on the side.

    His heart turned ice-cold, and every nerve in his body clenched. It felt like a lump of sour blood was stuck in his throat.

    His wounds reopened from the intense movements just now, but he couldn''t feel a thing.

    What had he done just now?

    While she was being bullied, he had hit her!

    He didn''t care about what Li Zhen wanted to do.

    If she wanted to punish him by sending him to jail, then he would go.

    Li Zhen remained calm andposed. "Zhou Chaowen, Yu Yang, I appreciate your help in stopping them just now, but he has hit me before. If I let it slide this time, there will be a next time..."

    Yu Yang blurted out, "Zhen Jie, have you forgotten that my brother saved you..."

    "Yu Yang! Shut up!" Yu Sheng suddenly shouted loudly, silencing Yu Yang instantly.

    Li Zhen paused. Yu Sheng had never asked her to do anything in return for saving her all those years ago.

    Even if she wanted to call the police and have him arrested now, he wouldn''t object.

    If it were anyone else, he would.

    Li Zhen fell silent. After two seconds, she handed her phone to Zhou Chaowen. "Chaowen, take that man to the police station. As for Dong Wanwan, she is your wife. You deal with her."

    Li Zhen walked past everyone and headed towards the exit.

    Yu Sheng grabbed her wrist. "Li Zhen, I..."

    Li Zhen pulled her hand away, but she couldn''t free herself.

    She turned to look at him, her gaze devoid of warmth, only indifference.

    Yu Sheng struggled to find the right words to say.

    He held Li Zhen''s cold wrist, and there was still water dripping down her arm.

    Li Zhen was shivering, her hair and clothes soaked.

    She looked disheveled.

    He suddenly remembered, "You''re still in your menstrual period. You''ll catch a chill. I''ll take you to the hospital."

    "It''s necessary to go to the hospital. Otherwise, it will affect your health and make it difficult for you to get pregnant," Zhou Chaowen''s expression changed drastically.

    Li Zhen replied, "Yes, I know."

    Yu Sheng said, "I''ll take you."

    "No need. My husband is avable. You don''t have to trouble yourself, ex-husband," Li Zhen''s voice was icy.

    "You don''t have to say such things to provoke me," Yu Sheng''s fingers trembled slightly, and he finally let go. "You go by yourself."

    "It''s not a provocation. I''ll send you the marriage certificateter," Li Zhen no longer paid attention to the expressions of the people around her as she walked away.

    As she passed by Xiao Ning, Li Zhen stepped on his hand that was lying on the ground and crushed it forcefully.

    Xiao Ning woke up from his daze!

    When he opened his eyes and met Li Zhen''s gaze, he immediately closed his eyes again, pretending to be unconscious.

    Li Zhen entered the adjacent room and left the door open. She took out her phone and dialed Lu Yanming''s number.

    He answered quickly from the other side, "Zhen Zhen?"

    His low and clean voice echoed in Li Zhen''s ears.

    Upon hearing Lu Yanming''s voice, Li Zhen had a sudden, inexplicable urge to cry.

    "Zhen Zhen?" Lu Yanming patiently called her.

    "Lu Yanming, I have to use you as a shield now. Can you ask your assistant to bring the marriage certificate to me?" Li Zhen sniffed, her voice low.

    "Alright, where are you?" Lu Yanming replied warmly.

    Li Zhen gave him the address and hung up the phone.

    She stared at her phone for a few seconds, her heart fluttering. Lu Yanming didn''t ask what was the matter or what she wanted to do; he simply said, "Alright."

    He agreed without hesitation.

    It was as if he would never refuse any request from her.

    Li Zhen took off her nightgown, took a shower to warm up her body, and then changed into clean clothes before leaving.

    Fei Zhao was already waiting at the entrance of the hotel.

    "Assistant Fei, did you bring the marriage certificate for me?" Li Zhen asked.

    She needed to take a photo of it and send it to Yu Sheng.

    And then they would go to the hospital.

    Fei Zhao stood by the car and, seeing Li Zhene out, opened the back door. "Young Master brought it. Miss Li, where would you like to go now? Please get in the car."

    In the back seat, Lu Yanming, with his tall and handsome figure, leaned slightly against the backrest. The faint lights outside the car window reflected his deep contours.

    "Zhenzhen..." Lu Yanming''s gaze fell casually on her.

    But he clearly saw the ambiguous red mark on her neck.

 Chapter 119: Itâ€™s So Obvious

    <h4>Chapter 119</h4>

    The air seemed to stagnate for a few seconds.

    Fei Zhao noticed something was wrong, and looked in the direction Lu Yanming was looking, towards Li Zhen''s neck.

    His pupils shuddered.

    This this this this...

    Looking again at the hotel behind Li Zhen, then at the marks on her neck!

    My god!

    What had Li Zhen just been doing inside?

    Fei Zhao looked at the young master in horror.

    But he had already gotten out of the car.

    Lu Yanming got out of the car, stood in front of Li Zhen, took off his coat and draped it over her shoulders, "You look so pale?"

    The high-quality coat carried the mature woody scent unique to men, as well as his body warmth.

    That feeling of intimacy seeped from Li Zhen''s skin into her bones.

    Li Zhen clutched her clothes tightly and said softly, "I''m a little cold."

    The shower had helped a lot, but she was still cold.

    Fei Zhao looked on in shock. Why didn''t the young master ask about the marks on Li Zhen''s neck?

    He looked very anxious!

    Li Zhen had just finished speaking when she was swept up into the air.

    She hurriedly put her arms around Lu Yanming''s neck, "Mr. Lu, I''m just cold, my legs aren''t broken..."

    Lu Yanming said, "Zhen Zhen is delicate, walking less will do."

    Li Zhen''s ears were right against his firm, robust chest, she could feel the vibrations when he spoke.

    A sense of security instantly enveloped her.

    It was as if she had been pulled out of a nightmare by Lu Yanming, and he had caught her steadily.

    The world became clear again, and breathing was no longer oppressed.

    Lu Yanming easily carried her into the car.

    Li Zhen thought she would be put down on the seat.

    But Lu Yanming didn''t let her go, he sat her down on hisp, held her in his arms, pressing her tightly against him, as if wanting to transmit his warmth to her, "Turn up the heat."

    Li Zhen didn''t move, somewhat addicted to the current sense of security.

    "Yes, young master." Fei Zhao got into the car withplicated thoughts.

    After turning up the heat, he tried to drive but couldn''t move.

    There was a traffic jam up ahead.

    "What happened?" Lu Yanming asked.

    "A few police cars came, and all the cars on the road were driving slowly, watching themotion, it''s all backed up now." Fei Zhao craned his neck to look out the car window.

    When he looked, it was chaotic!

    A few people wereing out of the hotel.

    Among them, walkingst, wasn''t that Yu Sheng!

    Fei Zhao looked at the marks on Li Zhen''s neck in horror, then back at Yu Shenging out of the hotel.

    It wasn''t hard to guess what had happened!

    Fei Zhao''s mind buzzed, no, he had to warn the young master.

    "Ahem, young master, look over there at the entrance, quite a lot of people!"

    "Mm." Lu Yanming responded indifferently.

    Fei Zhao was going crazy!

    Had the young master selectively lost his sight!

    "Young master, look at the sign for that cafe, it''s so green!"

    "Mm."

    "Young master, a man that looks like Wu Dng from TV just walked by, hahaha..."

    "Mm."

    Fei Zhao: ......

    Fei Zhao couldn''t take it anymore, he took out his phone and sent a message, directly saying: ¡¾Young master! Isn''t that Yu Sheng! Miss Li''s neck...what they did...¡¿

    The person in the back seat replied: ¡¾What are you trying to say?¡¿

    Fei Zhao: ¡¾This...this is obvious, young master!¡¿

    Lu Yanming: ¡¾If you keep thinking randomly, you won''t need your brain anymore.¡¿

    Fei Zhao: ¡¾(kitten has moved into brain jpg) (time flies, brain empty jpg)¡¿

    "Mr. Fei, could you please first take me to the hospital?" Li Zhen spoke from the back seat.

    Fei Zhao didn''t even want to respond to her.

    Asking if he could go to the hospital?

    Even if she wanted to go to Mars, his young master would send her there!

    Lu Yanming held the person in his arms tighter, his slender, long fingers pushed the messy strands of Li Zhen''s hair behind her ear.

    She was very pale, her body very cold.

    And still shivering slightly.

    She was clearly very wronged just now, her emotions hadn''tpletely stabilized yet.

    The red marks on her neck were very jarring, but certainly not what Fei Zhao was thinking.

    Because he knew, Zhen Zhen wouldn''t.

    Lu Yanming lowered his head, reaching out to gently caress her neck, the marks were very faint and messy, "I saw Mr. Yue out of the hotel just now, did you run into him inside?"

    Li Zhen was stunned for a moment.

    She had almost forgotten that man had deliberately left the marks.

    Lu Yanming had seen them.

    "Mr. Yu didn''t look to be in a very good mood either." Lu Yanming''s fingers stroked over the jarring redness, very lightly, but persistently, as if he just wanted to gently smooth it away like this.

    Li Zhen looked up at Lu Yanming in his arms.

    His eyes were a very light color, but whenever he looked at her his gaze was always deep.

    Li Zhen hadn''t wanted to talk about this messy business with him, but he had discovered the marks on her neck, and had only asked her lightly.

    His emotions were extremely stable.

    Li Zhen''s heart settled along with his.

    Li Zhen''s eyes suddenly grew a bit wet, her voice aggrieved, "Thepany newly hired an endorser, she was my college dormmate, today she had a man carry me into her room to try and rape me, the marks on my neck are from that man."

    "Then, Yu Sheng and his friends came in and stopped it."

    Li Zhen didn''t mention Yu Sheng hitting her.

    Fei Zhao: ......What!!!

    Fei Zhao clenched his fist tight!

    So that was what happened!

    That man shouldn''t expect to live!

    Daring to touch the young master''s person!

    Fei Zhao didn''t even want to drive the car anymore, he wanted to immediately find that man and do him in!

    Lu Yanming''s light eyes condensed slightly, the gold wire rimmed sses reflecting a faint cold light. "Perhaps they were just too bored with life."

    Fei Zhao looked to the back, seeing the young master''s expression he knew he would be busy tomorrow, neither that endorser nor that man would get off easy.

    Fei Zhao realized btedly, damn!

    It was good he didn''t say what he had assumed between Li Zhen and Yu Sheng just now, otherwise with Li Zhen suffering such a huge wrong, and also being misunderstood, how awful she would have felt!

    Just now he had still felt the young master was blinded by love, only now did he understand, there was a reason the young master could find a good partner, he had a capable mind!

    The traffic ahead finally eased up, and Fei Zhao drove forward.

    Yu Sheng stood next to the police car, his expression downcast.

    Zhou Chaowen nced out of the corner of his eye, and saw that familiar car, "Sote and the leaders of Honghai are still on this side of the studio city?"

    Yu Sheng raised his eyes.

    A conspicuous stretched Rolls-Royce passed before his eyes.

    That was the new car Lu Yanming had bought, Yu Sheng had seen it before when picking up Li Zhen from the garage that day.

    Inside the car, Lu Yanming had a person sitting on hisp, held preciously in his embrace.

    But with Lu Yanming holding her so tightly, and the coat covering her fully, it wasn''t clear who that person was.

    Yu Sheng''s gaze met Lu Yanming''s.

    Yu Sheng nodded slightly to him in greeting.

    But Lu Yanming didn''t acknowledge him at all, shifting his eyes away, bowing his head to lightly kiss the soft, fluffy hair of the person in his arms.

 Chapter 120: Donâ€™t Look at Me that Way

    <h4>Chapter 120</h4>

    Fei Zhao went to park the car at the hospital.

    Lu Yanming carried Li Zhen into the hospital.

    The hospital was bustling with peopleing and going. But as soon as he appeared, tall and long-legged, dressed in a suit, he instantly attracted many gazes.

    Li Zhen tugged at his arm, shyly burying her face in his embrace, "Mr. Lu, put me down..."

    Lu Yanming chuckled softly, "Okay."

    He ced Li Zhen on a chair in the lobby and went to register.

    Sitting next to Li Zhen was a young mother, ying with her phone in one hand while getting an IV in the other.

    Next to her was a soft, chubby little girl snuggling up to her, looking at aic book.

    There was also a man, sitting to the side, opening three freshly made cups of instant noodles, "Dear, which vor do you want?"

    The young mother shook her head, "I don''t want instant noodles anymore, honey can you buy me a sandwich instead?"

    "Sure, wait for me." The man agreed without hesitation, closed the noodle cups, got up and walked out.

    Li Zhen nced at the family of three from the corner of her eye.

    So warm.

    She was a little envious of the little girl for a moment, and also envious of the young mother.

    "Plop", the girl''s book fell to the ground.

    Right by Li Zhen''s feet. Li Zhen bent over to pick it up.

    "Thank you pretty auntie." The little girl took it back and thanked her sweetly.

    Li Zhen''s heart instantly melted into a puddle, "You''re wee, sweetie."

    The little girl moved closer to Li Zhen''s arms, very intimate, "Auntie, is that super handsome uncle who carried you your boyfriend?"

    The little girl lifted her short chubby hand and pointed to Lu Yanming, who was not far away lining up.

    He was wearing a gray suit, sleeves slightly rolled up, revealing his strong, muscr forearms and expensive watch.

    Tall and extraordinarily handsome.

    Among the crowd of people lining up, he stood out too much.

    Li Zhen was suddenly ovee by boastfulness, proudly lifting her chin, "That''s my husband."

    The little girl immediately looked at her enviously, starry-eyed, "Auntie, then when you divorce, can you lend that uncle to me as my husband for a few days?"

    Li Zhen: "Uh..."

    The young mother immediately covered the little girl''s mouth, "Don''t talk nonsense!"

    The little girl struggled free, "But mom, you said that ordinary-looking men are good men, and too handsome men are unreliable, so big sister will definitely get divorced in a few days!"

    "But that uncle is so handsome, I like him!"

    Li Zhen couldn''t help butugh out loud at the little girl''s words, "No, sweetie, that uncle is also very good, a very good handsome uncle."

    "Ah..." The little girl looked disappointed, stomping her feet in frustration, "Then auntie will you and uncle be together forever? Then I don''t have a chance anymore..."

    "I''m afraid not, you really don''t have a chance."

    The pleasant male voice rang out over the three.

    Li Zhen looked up to see Lu Yanming had gotten the registration slip.

    The little girl pouted, her eyes reddening from being upset by the handsome uncle''s words.

    Li Zhen red at Lu Yanming.

    The next second, Lu Yanming picked her up and walked forward.

    Li Zhen: "Mr. Lu, you''re carrying me again!"

    "To prove that handsome men can also be considerate." Lu Yanming chuckled lightly.

    Li Zhen''s heart skipped a beat.

    She looked up and clearly saw Lu Yanming''s full Adam''s apple.

    His bangs were neat and clean, and his cold eyes behind the gold-rimmed sses were smiling as they lingered on her.

    Her memory inadvertently went back to the first time she saw him at the bar.

    It was the same angle she looked at him.

    She was stunned by his appearance at the time, but who could have imagined they would have so much interaction.

    "We''re in public, don''t look at me like that..." Lu Yanming lowered his head and gently kissed the corner of her mouth.

    Li Zhen''s heart suddenly beat faster.

    Thump thump, beating loudly.

    Getting louder and louder.

    Her face visibly reddened under the fluorescent lights in the hospital hallway. Her skin was like a peeled egg, adding a touch of red, temptingly beautiful.

    Lu Yanming stopped and his tone was slightly surprised, "What''s wrong? Hot?"

    "A little, maybe because there are too many people in the hospital and stuffy." Li Zhen bit her lip.

    "Oh..." Lu Yanming nodded thoughtfully, holding the woman in his arms even tighter as he walked forward, "I thought Zhen Zhen was shy from my kiss."

    Li Zhen: ...So you were deliberately asking when you already knew?

    Li Zhen pursed her lips without answering.

    When Li Zhen came out of the hospital, she had Lu Yanming take her back to her current dormitory.

    The next day at the studio, everyone was chattering excitedly.

    Li Zhen was puzzled until Zhang Xiya came over and pulled her, "Zhen Zhen! Something happened to our spokesperson."

    So that was what it was about.

    Apparently the news of Zhou Chaowen and Dong Wanwan''s divorce hade out.

    Li Zhen sat calmly on the side.

    Zhang Xiya sat down next to her, "That Dong Wanwan, your former schoolmate, her affair videos were exposed, and she was caught for tax evasion, and also previously used date rape drugs on two male university students...she''s in jail now."

    "What?" Li Zhen was surprised.

    The news was too shocking.

    It wasn''t just a divorce?

    But this didn''t seem like something Zhou Chaowen would do.

    Although Dong Wanwan cheated on him, given his personality he should have just gotten a divorce, how could he have done this so ruthlessly.

    Could it be...

    Li Zhen thought of the sudden coldness in Lu Yanming''s expression when she told him yesterday.

    It was more like Lu Yanming''s style.

    Thoroughly eliminating the opponent.

    -

    With Dong Wanwan''s incident, thepany quickly terminated her contract. The only artist Li Zhen had to liaise with now was Lu Na.

    Li Zhen was at ease these days.

    And strangely, Lu Na didn''t look for her at all, as if treating her like a prop.

    So Li Zhen''s daily routine these days was to sit in the studio, drink coffee, chat and gossip with Qiao Yi and Zhang Xiya.

    Lu Na was currently on break in the studio, but her gaze kept falling on Li Zhen, who was chatting andughing with others.

    "She looks more and more like her." Lu Na tilted her head, staring fixedly.

    Lu Na had been observing Li Zhen for several days.

    At first sight she only felt that she was too good-looking, which annoyed her.

    But these days, she looked more and more like her little aunt.

    Her little aunt''s portrait was in the family ancestral hall, and she worshipped it every year.

    "Sister Lu Na, your milk tea." Xu Qian came in with takeout.

    "Put it there, why are you shouting." Lu Na nced at her, then put her gaze back on Li Zhen.

    Xu Qian had been worried for Li Zhen these past few days.

    Lu Na''s family background was unfathomable, her temper had always been bad, her personality spoiled.

    She entered the entertainment industry just to y around, didn''t expect to be a Best Actress.

    If she was unhappy she could go back anytime to enjoy the heiress life, so she had never been nice to the liaison staff sent by partners, and didn''t even know how to spell "tactful".

    But these past few days Lu Na had been unusually quiet, not causing trouble for Li Zhen.

    Xu Qian found it very strange.

 Chapter 121: The Fly That Bites Shit

    <h4>Chapter 121</h4>

    At lunch time, after collecting the thermos from Fei Zhao at the entrance of the film and television city, Li Zhen was the first to upy the best position to eat.

    Lu Yanming had already asked Fei Chao to deliver meals to them continuously for several days.

    Li Zhen''s refusal was invalid.

    Thepany meals provided in the film and television city were very different from thepany meals at Honghai Headquarters.

    So...

    Li Zhen''s refusal was not very firm.

    Because she had three moring babies behind her.

    As soon as Zhang Xiya sat down, she couldn''t wait to open the thermos, took out the dishes and started eating with chopsticks, "Fortunately, there is President Lu''s daily loving meal delivery."

    She deliberately lowered her voice when saying the words "President Lu".

    Then she looked around worriedly.

    She received only envious looks.

    Colleagues at the next table looked at them eating fragrant and spicy food, and were almost crying with envy every day.

    Qiao Yi coughed and meaningfully said, "Such a thoughtful man is rare."

    Meng Yuanjie: "Yes, I raise the g for President Lu!"

    Li Zhen rolled her eyes, "You guys don''t have to praise him so much, President Lu is not here, he can''t hear it."

    Zhang Xiya giggled twice, "Little Zhen Zhen, what''s the deal between you and President Lu? Tell us about it?"

    "Don''t ask too much about things in society."

    Li Zhen stuffed vegetables into Zhang Xiya''s mouth.

    Zhang Xiya chewed hard with bulging cheeks, "The three of us work so hard, we can only chat and rest for a while when eating. You don''t even tell us about it."

    Just as she finished speaking, Jiang Keyan sat down at the table next to the three of them, "How can youpare with Li Zhen? She does nothing every day, and she also has Chairman Wu covering for her. Can you do that?"

    Jiang Keyan came today to deal with Dorothy Pan''s affairs and to see some media.

    She was going to leave after finishing her business, but when she saw Li Zhen she changed her mind and took her meal to eat here.

    Meng Yuanjie looked at Jiang Keyan in disgust, "My parrot at home, who can only talk, even knows not to interrupt when others are talking. But some beasts don''t know that."

    "You are so protective of her? You three know how to cling to people for power and connection." Jiang Keyan sneered coldly.

    Zhang Xiya: "Why don''t you just shut up, like a fly that keeps buzzing anding to pester people..."

    Li Zhen: ......

    Meng Yuanjie: ......

    Qiao Yi: ......

    Zhang Xiya''s expression froze.

    It seems like she has scolded her own people too.

    "Cough cough," Zhang Xiya hurriedly lowered her head to eat.

    Jiang Keyan clenched her fists and said in a low voice, "Li Zhen, you..."

    "Ssh!"

    A cup of water suddenly interrupted Jiang Keyan abruptly.

    "Ah!" Jiang Keyan almost jumped up, "Which b*tch..."

    When Jiang Keyan saw the person in front of her clearly, the words she wanted to curse stuck in her throat.

    Lu Na was holding an empty cup in her hand, looking coldly at Jiang Keyan, "Eat your meal properly, do we have to hear you babbling alone to show off?"

    Jiang Keyan''s expression changed.

    But she couldn''t say a word.

    This Lu Na was a popr movie queen, and she was said to have an extraordinary family background.

    She couldn''t afford to offend her.

    Jiang Keyan gritted her teeth and only lowered her head to say in a low voice, "I''m sorry, I disturbed Miss Lu''s mood for eating."

    After speaking, she left without even eating her meal.

    Everyone else watched in shock.

    Lu Na had an extremely bad temper on the set, and would scold anyone who displeased her. But they didn''t expect her temper to be so bad that she would ssh water at the slightest disagreement.

    Everyone unconsciously picked up their lunch boxes and went to sit farther away in trepidation.

    Li Zhen and her three friends were also shocked in ce.

    Not because they were scared of Lu Na.

    But because they were thrilled!

    Zhang Xiya''s good feelings for Lu Na suddenly soared. This big star is not bad!

    Zhang Xiya enthusiastically invited, "Miss Lu Na,e on,e on, sit down and eat with us? Our food is takeout, notpany meals, it''s really delicious."

    Lu Na looked contemptuously at the table and arrogantly spat out two words, "Trash."

    Zhang Xiya: ......

    She took back what she just thought.

    This person is really annoying.

    Lu Na''s gaze shifted to Li Zhen''s face, "Hey, whoever you are, do you have a photo of your mother?"

    Li Zhen curled her lips, "Although you indirectly helped me just now, if you swear in front of me again, I will really get angry."

    "What the hell?" Lu Na was startled for a moment, then reacted, "I mean, do you have a photo of your mother?"

    Lu Na asked this question abruptly.

    Zhang Xiya and the other two looked at each other.

    "What for?" Li Zhen was wary.

    "Just asking, why so hostile." Lu Na said impatiently.

    "I don''t have a photo of my mother." Li Zhen lowered her head and took a bite of food.

    Concealing the trace of loss in her eyes.

    Lu Na thought Li Zhen was unwilling to give it, and rolled her eyes, "Don''t want to give it? I don''t even want to look at it!"

    She walked away with a twist of her waist.

    Zhang Xiya and the other three were puzzled by Lu Na''s behavior from beginning to end, and felt baffled.

    Li Zhen ate with her head down, and did not say another word.

    She didn''t have a photo of her mother.

    But she could have had one.

    Tonight, she was going to the Li family to steal a video.

    The moon slowly poked its head out.

    The sky gradually darkened.

    Li Zhen wore ck and sat at the foot of the wall in the backyard of the Li family vi, nervously shaking her legs.

    "It''s okay, it''s okay..." Li Zhen gave herself a pep talk.

    She looked at the time, it was almost one o''clock in the morning.

    It was dead silent around.

    Li Zhen took a deep breath and let it out.

    She looked left and right, no one wasing.

    She got up, took a few steps back, rushed forward, jumped up near the wall, grabbed the top of the wall.

    She tried to climb up by kicking her feet on the wall surface, but her arms were already too weak.

    Forget it.

    As expected, climbing walls in the middle of the night was not a suitable method for her!

    Li Zhen felt dejected, and was about to jump down.

    But then a force supported her butt and steadily lifted her up.

    Li Zhen was so frightened that she looked back, and when she saw who it was, she eximed in a low voice, "President Lu!"

    What was he doing here!

    Lu Yanming nced at the top of the wall with a faint smile, signaling with his eyes.

    Li Zhen immediately calmed down, raised one leg to hook the top of the wall, then swung up and jumped in.

    The next second, the tall figure leaped over the wall neatly andnded beside her.

    Li Zhen nced at him and asked in a low voice in surprise, "What are you doing here? Hurry up and go. What if you get caught..."

    Lu Yanming''s thin and handsome lips curved up slightly, unconcerned, "You jump, I jump."

    Li Zhen: ......

    He was messing with her at this critical juncture!

    However, he was also dressed in a ck suit today, wrapped around his strong body, perfectly hidden in the night.

    It looked like the two of them were a premeditated criminal gang.

    With someone apanying her, Li Zhen was no longer afraid.

    Li Zhen gave in, toozy to drive him away, and simply pulled him along, crouching and staring ahead.

    "Let''s go, sister Zhen will take you to y something thrilling tonight."

 Chapter 122: The Study is Too Dirty.

    <h4>Chapter 122</h4>

    "Alright," Lu Yanming said with a smile.

    The two of them crouched and went through the backyard to the back door. Li Zhen took out a thin piece of iron wire and inserted it into the keyhole.

    Lu Yanming''s eyebrows quirked up slightly as he softly praised, "Zhen Zhen is indeed amazing, you can do anything."

    "Click," the lock opened.

    Li Zhen: ...

    "Mr. Lu, these less-than-upstanding skills aren''t really something you should praise so highly."

    The two of them went inside.

    The vi was quite quiet.

    There was only the rustling sound of the wind blowing the curtains.

    Li Zhen led Lu Yanming upstairs to the study door.

    Li Zhen inserted the wire into the lock and gently fiddled with it.

    She was taken aback.

    "What''s wrong?" Lu Yanming moved close to her ear and asked.

    "This is a custom lock, I can''t get it open." Li Zhen''s brows furrowed.

    Lu Yanming looked left and right, settling his gaze on the window at the end of the hallway. "Wait here for me, don''t move."

    As soon as he finished speaking, Lu Yanming had already takenrge strides away.

    "Hey..." Li Zhen whispered softly, but could only watch helplessly as he grabbed the window with one hand and jumped out.

    Li Zhen covered her mouth just in time to stop herself from making a sound.

    Within just over ten seconds, the study door in front of Li Zhen opened from the inside.

    In the darkness of the study, only the moonlighting in through the floor-to-ceiling windows provided illumination. As the door opened, Lu Yanming''s tall, distinguished figure stood silhouetted against the light.

    For a moment, Li Zhen''s eyes dazzled.

    Is Lu Yanming omnipotent?

    "Why aren''t youing in?" Lu Yanming grasped her wrist and gently pulled her inside, softly closing the door.

    Once inside the room, Li Zhen no longer had to keep her voice down. "Mr. Lu, I''m looking for a video. I already searched most of the roomst time but didn''t find any matching discs or tapes."

    Lu Yanming gazed at her very attentively, indicating for her to continue.

    Li Zhen said, "Now there are only two ces I haven''t searched - one is the safe, I brought tools."

    Lu Yanming walked to the corner where the safe was located.

    "But I''m just trying it with the mentality that it likely won''t work." Li Zhen took out her phone and tools, and carefully studied the guide she had found today.

    Lu Yanming crouched down, pressed his ear to the safe lock, and fiddled with it casually a couple times.

    Li Zhen looked at thements on her phone screen, her brows knitting together. "Online it says these tools will probably only work by chance, the odds aren''t great..."

    Just as thest word left her lips¡ª

    "Click," the safe opened under Lu Yanming''s hands.

    Li Zhen: ...

    He can even crack a safe by listening?

    Lu Yanming took out a USB drive from inside. Unhurriedly, he asked, "Is this what you wanted?"

    "Yes." Li Zhen came to her senses and quickly took out an identical USB drive from the ten-odd ones she had brought, handing it to Lu Yanming.

    Last time Li Zhen hadn''t gotten a good look inside the safe, so she had prepared over a dozen different USB drives this time, nning to pull a bait and switch.

    Lu Yanming understood her intention.

    He put the USB drive he had brought into the safe, and pocketed the original one.

    "You said there were two ces you hadn''t searched - what''s the other one?" Lu Yanming closed the safe and stood up.

    "The other one we don''t need to bother with. I don''t know the password for thatputer so I can''t get in." Li Zhen''s tone was nonchnt.

    Being able to open the safe alreadypletely fulfilled her original goal.

    She hadn''t dared hope to be able to ess thisputer.

    Lu Yanming gave theputer and CPU a once-over, then sat at the desk and pressed the power button. It prompted for a password.

    He found a phone connector cable in the drawer, connected his phone to theputer.

    Li Zhen stood to the side watching as Lu Yanming tapped at his phone a couple times, then randomly typed away at theputer keyboard.

    Theputer screen instantly showed a bunch of garbled text...

    At least in Li Zhen''s eyes it was garbled.

    "Give me the one with thergest memory." Lu Yanming''s gaze was calm as he looked at the scrolling code on the screen, reaching a hand out to her.

    The dazed Li Zhen passed a USB drive over.

    Lu Yanming plugged in the USB drive and theputer immediately showed a download progress bar.

    1%

    3%

    5%

    The progress bar inched forward slowly.

    Li Zhen''s perception of Lu Yanming was refreshed once again. "Mr. Lu, your college major wasn''t some kind of spy training was it?"

    "Justputer hacking, how hard can it be." Lu Yanming unhurriedly disconnected his phone, returning the connector cable to its original spot, simply waiting for theputer contents to finish copying over to the USB drive.

    "I can''t do it."

    "Which is why you need me very much."

    As soon as Lu Yanming finished speaking, footsteps suddenly sounded from the door.

    Lu Yanming immediately turned off theputer screen. The USB transfer was still in progress. He pulled Li Zhen to hide behind a screen next to the chaise lounge.

    The next second, the study door opened and Li Yinnan walked in wearing a robe.

    Li Yinnan sat at the desk.

    Li Zhen''s heart instantly leaped to her throat, afraid he would discover the USB drive still transferring data.

    Li Yinnan impatiently opened a drawer, took out a contract, flipped it open, and made a call. "Hello..."

    "Yes, I''ve seen that contract, sign it."

    "Yu Sheng? No."

    "I''ve had hime over several times recently. If they insist on seeing Yu Sheng to sign then forget it."

    "It''s not because of Li Zhen. Why would I care what a bastard daughter like her thinks, let alone make decisions based on her wishes."

    "I''m afraid of damaging my rtionship with Yu Sheng."

    Behind the screen, Li Zhen instinctively bit her lip, not even noticing her nails digging into her palms.

    This was the first time she had heard Li Yinnan say this about her to her face.

    As if her being a bastard was her fault.

    And not her father''s fault.

    A father who wanted to imprison her just to prevent her gettingpany shares. A father who spoke of her in disgust, calling her a bastard who shouldn''t see the light of day.

    She had called him Dad for so many years, and now felt nauseated.

    Li Zhen''s heart and mind roiled. Suddenly, a pair of broad, dry hands gently pried her clenched fingers open one by one.

    Lu Yanming slid his slender fingers between hers.

    Holding her hand.

    Li Zhen nced at him.

    What greeted her were a pair of gentle, refined eyes behind gold-rimmed sses, looking at her with a faint smile.

    Although always overflowing with tenderness, those eyes only ever held her. Li Zhen''s sinking heart floated up again.

    It seemed she wasn''t so alone after all.

    Li Yinnan put away the contract and left the room.

    Lu Yanming pulled Li Zhen to her feet. "Earlier, didn''t you say you wanted to do something thrilling with me?"

    "Mr. Lu, don''t tell me you''re thinking of something indecent at a time like this?" Li Zhen looked at him doubtfully.

    Lu Yanming smiled faintly, his tall figure exuding a cold aura in the darkness. "This study of the Li family is filthy. Let''s burn it down."

    Five minutester.

    The shouts from the Li house almost pierced the heavens.

    "The study is on fire!"

    "There''s important stuff inside, hurry and put it out!"

    "Call the fire department, quick!"

    Li Zhen stood a street over in the vi district, the straight-backed Lu Yanming at her side.

    The two of them watched the raging mes consuming the Li family study from afar.

    If not for her grandfather being there, Li Zhen really wanted to burn the entire Li house down and be done with it.

 Chapter 123: Everything Wins

    <h4>Chapter 123</h4>

    Outside the dormitory door, Li Zhen took out her keys and turned to make a shushing gesture at Lu Yanming behind her.

    "So cautious?" Lu Yanming said amusedly.

    Li Zhen said seriously, "If my roommate finds out I brought the vice president of the group back in the middle of the night, the wholepany will know by tomorrow."

    Only after entering the bedroom did Li Zhen breathe a sigh of relief.

    Lu Yanming took out hisptop and opened the contents he had copied onto it.

    Li Zhen hurried over to take a look.

    But after looking back and forth several times, it was all just his business contracts, somepany information, things like that.

    "President Lu, where''s the USB drive from the safe?"

    "Here it is." Lu Yanming handed it to her.

    Li Zhen plugged it into theputer, but when she opened the files it prompted for a password, "Still can''t open it."

    Her mother''s video was most likely inside.

    Li Zhen both wanted to open it immediately to watch, but also felt a bit afraid in her heart.

    The room was very small, with theputer on a narrow vanity, and there was only one chair.

    Lu Yanming had originally been standing to the side, but now that he needed to sit down and help Li Zhen take a look, he scooped her up into his embrace and sat down.

    Held in his arms, Li Zhen''s body stiffened for a moment.

    Lu Yanmingzily rested his chin on Li Zhen''s straight shoulders, his gaze focused intently on theputer screen.

    With a few deft motions of his hand on the keyboard, more code appeared on theputer.

    Two minutester, Lu Yanming shook his head, "No good, the file has a self-destruct program. Forcing it open will automatically delete it."

    Li Zhen: "Then we''ll talk about it when I''m able to guess or ask for the password."

    She realized she still wasn''t ready to see what her mother looked like.

    When Lu Yanming said it couldn''t be opened, she even breathed a secret sigh of relief.

    "Then you should head back, President Lu, it''s quitete today." Li Zhen said, preparing to get up.

    But the person behind her didn''t let go of his hold.

    "Zhen Zhen, when are you moving back?"

    "In a few days." Li Zhen calcted that her ovtion period would be in a few days.

    "Good." Lu Yanming''s response was casual.

    He released one hand and started unbuttoning his shirt.

    Li Zhen was shocked, "President Lu, what do you mean by this?"

    "You''re not moving back for a few more days right? So we''re staying here for now, aren''t we?" Lu Yanming''s voice was low and husky, his light-colored eyes looking at her with a hint ofughter, "So now we should sleep."

    His hands kept moving, continuing to unbutton his shirt.

    Under the dim yellow light of the ceilingmp above their heads, the faint bulge of Lu Yanming''s chest muscles was reluctantly illuminated.

    His muscles were toned but not excessive.

    It was a smooth, elegant aesthetic.

    Li Zhen hurriedly shifted her gaze, "But you don''t live here, President Lu."

    "Where one''s wife resides, so does the husband." Lu Yanming responded casually.

    He grabbed one of Li Zhen''s hands and pressed it against the unfinished shirt buttons, "I was busy working for you all evening, I''m tired now."

    "Zhen Zhen, help me take this off, okay?"

    Lu Yanming deliberately lowered his voice.

    In the quiet room, his already attractive voice seeped into her ears, far too bewitching.

    Li Zhen''s scalp tingled at the sound.

    Her palm was pressed under his hand, half on the buttons and half on his firm chest.

    Li Zhen''s heart thumped wildly as she realized Lu Yanming was teasing her again!

    She quickly retracted her hand, "President Lu, I know what you''re thinking, but don''t think about it yet! I don''t have any..."

    Li Zhen didn''t finish her sentence.

    From his pants pocket, Lu Yanming took out five condoms, "You mean these? I brought them."

    Li Zhen''s eyes widened in shock.

    The same excuse clearly wouldn''t fool him twice.

    And he brought five!

    Lu Yanming chuckled lightly, "You don''t seem satisfied with the amount, should I have brought more?"

    "No, President Lu, I meant could we wait..."

    Lu Yanming impatiently kissed her.

    Only after kissing her softly until the strength left her waist, rendering Li Zhenpletely unable to resist, did he release her.

    "Can''t wait, I''ve been waiting for days already, Zhen Zhen." Lu Yanming''s breath grew hotter as he lowered his head again to kiss her fair neck.

    The desire he had suppressed for days was thick and fierce.

    Her eyes turned red, and she tried to pry the man''s hand away, but was utterly unable to budge it.

    Theplete control over her emotions brought Lu Yanming indescribable pleasure.

    Recently, Yu Xing had been acting out, first by resigning, then removing himself from the family tree.

    These past few days, he had been anxious, fearing Yu Xing might make a move. He didn''t know how much weight he carried in Li Zhen''s heart.

    He was tense all the time, watching over her and guarding her.

    Afraid that one day he might blink and she would be snatched away by Yu Xing again.

    This constant fear and insecurity was killing him.

    He murmured in Li Zhen''s ear, "Zhen Zhen, let''s move back tomorrow, okay?"

    Li Zhen''s lips were as red as dripping blood, she could no longer speak clearly, "President Lu...you shouldn''t always bully me, okay...I can never win against you, I''m unhappy."

    "Not at all, Zhen Zhen is the most capable, the perpetual winner." Lu Yanming couldn''t look enough at the woman in his arms.

    He looked at her reddened eyes, her delicate nose, her restless heaving chest.

    These words touched a fragile nerve in Li Zhen, and she murmured self-deprecatingly, "From birth I was dealt a losing hand, nothing goes smoothly, I always lose..."

    The words left Li Zhen''s mouth and even she was startled by them.

    She rarely showed weakness, but recently she couldn''t help revealing abrupt dependence and trust in Lu Yanming before her.

    It was as if she could tell him about any grievance, and there would be a proper and steady foothold.

    Lu Yanming was silent for a moment.

    He knew of Li Zhen''s past, knew how difficult it had been for her.

    Growing up without her parents'' love and care, then being alone outside at such a young age, facing all kinds of difficulties.

    Her birth forced her to bear far too much ridicule and malice from the world.

    Yet she was like a plum blossom that even wind and snow could not destroy. Concealing deep unspeakable scars, in the winter she bloomed the most vibrant and proud flower.

    Lu Yanming''s heart ached terribly for her. He kissed her lightly again and again, "Zhen Zhen, you have me from now on."

    He said, "I will make you win at everything."

    Li Zhen slowly opened her eyes, they were suddenly somewhat wet, "President Lu..."

    After always walking through storms, recently there was always someone holding an umbre for her.

    Her slender snow-white arms embraced Lu Yanming, and she buried her head in his chest, not wanting him to see those few untimely tears.

    This feeling was strange, as if being cradled in someone''s hand.

    He was probably the world''s best husband...

    Lu Yanming''s heart melted into a puddle.

    But his body remained taut.

    He didn''t dare take the next step, his desire pulsating restlessly, waiting for Li Zhen''s reaction.

    But the next second, a soft little hand grasped him.

    Lu Yanming''s abdomen tightened sharply.

    Li Zhen nuzzled away her tears on his chest, her attractive moist eyes looking up to meet his gaze.

    "Zhen Zhen, can I now?" Lu Yanming''s voice was hoarse beyond belief.

    Li Zhen nodded.

    But soon regretted it.

    Five, he did in fact use every single one.

 Chapter 124: Welcome Home

    <h4>Chapter 124</h4>

    The next day was the weekend.

    At nine o''clock in the morning, Xiao Xiao knocked on Li Zhen''s door. "Li Zhen, are you awake? My boyfriend bought breakfast and asked if we want to eat together."

    Li Zhen, enduring soreness all over her body, opened the door with messy hair. "Xiao Xiao, I''m not hungry, thanks. I need to catch up on sleep. I only slept at seven in the morning."

    "Huh? You stayed up all night? What were you doing?" Xiao Xiao asked in astonishment.

    Li Zhen yawned. "I was doing..."

    Li Zhen suddenly froze.

    With a loud "bang," she closed the door.

    She shouted from behind the door, "Xiao Xiao, I''m not hungry. You don''t have to worry about me..."

    "Alright," Xiao Xiao turned around, puzzled, and went to the dining room.

    Li Zhen turned her head.

    On the bedy the man who had been full of energy like a wolfst night.

    She had almost forgotten aboutst night!

    Last night, Lu Yanming had urgently taken off her clothes, which were now haphazardly hanging on a chair.

    His originally crisp shirt and trousers were wrinkled and piled up on the bedside table. His gold-rimmed sses and valuable wristwatch were pressed on top of them.

    Five used condoms were arrogantly squeezed into the trash can.

    The small room was filled with traces ofst night''s lovemaking.

    The morning light fell on the elegant bridge of his nose, casting ayer of radiance upon his stunning facial features.

    Li Zhen squatted down by the bed, resting her cheek on her hand, silently watching Lu Yanming.

    This shabby little room unexpectedly concealed such a precious and handsome person.

    She felt a sense of pride.

    A smile tugged at the corner of her lips.

    But in the next second, the man before her slightly opened his eyes.

    "Am I good-looking, Zhen Zhen?"

    "Cough...," Li Zhen''s smile froze at the corner of her lips as she quickly stood up.

    But her wrist suddenly felt heavy as Lu Yanming pulled her onto the bed, embracing her. "Can we sleep a little longer?"

    "Sure, I just got up because my roommate woke me up. It wasn''t intentional to get out of bed and look at you."

    "I''m yours. If you want to look, just look. No need to exin," Lu Yanming chuckled.

    Li Zhen touched her nose, feeling somewhat uneasy.

    It''s not her fault.

    If Lu Yanming''s face were on any other woman''s bed, they would be even more infatuated than her.

    "Besides your face, I can look at everything else, so don''t be shy," Lu Yanming directed Li Zhen to face him and ced her hand on his abdominal muscles.

    Lu Yanming''s abdominal muscles indeed felt great, and they even had a pleasant fragrance!

    Li Zhen:...

    She swallowed her saliva.

    It was too early for this!

    Her waist was still sore.

    "Lu Yanming, did you secretly learn some yin and yang cultivation techniques?" Li Zhen weakly asked.

    "Are you scared? It''s toote," Lu Yanming replied casually.

    He covered her hand with his broad palm and said casually, "Zhen Zhen, the film adaptation of ''Moonmark'' is in pre-production recently, and I was thinking..."

    Lu Yanming felt that something was off and lowered his head to look at the person in his arms.

    Li Zhen had fallen asleep, breathing softly and steadily. Her hand was still on his abdominal muscles, and she even subconsciously touched them.

    Lu Yanming chuckled lightly, pulling her closer into his embrace.

    It seemed that she was truly exhaustedst night.

    -

    Six o''clock in the afternoon.

    Li Zhen woke up.

    She was awakened by Xiao Xiao''s sharp scream of "Ah!"

    When Li Zhen woke up, her first reaction wasn''t to look at Xiao Xiao but to nce around, immediately feeling that something was wrong.

    Why was the room so empty!

    Upon closer inspection... where were her things?

    The room looked as if it had been thoroughly ransacked,pletely empty.

    Except for a set of clothes for going out and a pair of slippers on her bedside table.

    Li Zhen quickly changed into them and went to the living room.

    As soon as Xiao Xiao saw hering out, she eximed anxiously, "Li Zhen, has our house been burgled? Your toiletries in the bathroom, all your shoes at the entrance, and all your belongings are gone."

    Xiao Xiao had gone out with her boyfriend for a stroll and was terrified when they returned to this scene.

    "It''s a burry, a flower thief has broken in," muttered Li Zhen.

    "What?" Xiao Xiao didn''t hear clearly.

    "Never mind..." Li Zhen shook her head.

    Li Zhen had no doubt that if he could, Lu Yanming would even want to take her away with him.

    After Li Zhen told Xiao Xiao that she was going to move out, she prepared to take her remaining luggage¡ªher cellphone¡ªand return to Huayang Famous Residence.

    She knew that Lu Yanming had forced her at this moment because he had sensed her hesitation between going back and not going back.

    Li Zhen went downstairs, and the familiar car was parked outside the building.

    Fei Zhao stood outside the car, ying with his phone, waiting for her.

    As soon as Fei Zhao saw Li Zhen, he immediately put away his phone and smiled from ear to ear. "Miss Li, get in the car. I''ll take you back to Huayang Famous Residence."

    This period of time, because of his mistake, Li Zhen had moved away, and it was finally over today!

    She no longer had to endure the cold gaze of the young master!

    "Thank you, Assistant Fei," Li Zhen said as she got into the car.

    On the way back to Huayang Famous Residence, Fei Zhao was in such a good mood that he even started humming a song.

    ---

    At Huayang Famous Residence, Li Zhen stood at the door and skillfully unlocked it with her fingerprint.

    Upon entering, she smelled the aroma of food.

    In the open kitchen, Lu Yanming was wearing an apron and cooking.

    In the dining room, fresh flowers were arranged.

    Li Zhen walked over and leaned down to take a sniff.

    It smelled delightful.

    It was a refreshing fragrance that instantly brought joy to one''s heart.

    She looked up and gazed out of the floor-to-ceiling window at the flowing river, tranquil and far-reaching.

    For a moment, Li Zhen had a feeling.

    This was home.

    It felt more like home than any ce she had ever lived.

    "Wee back, Zhen Zhen," came the voice of Lu Yanming.

    Li Zhen turned her head, and Lu Yanming ced two tes of food on the dining table.

    Then he approached her and nted a kiss on her cheek.

    "We''ll eat in ten minutes. Go wash your hands first," he said.

    "Okay," Li Zhen rubbed the spot where he had kissed her, feeling a little warm.

    The charm of a top-notch husband was radiating once again!

    Li Zhen pursed her lips, turned around, and went upstairs.

    With such excellent genes and a significant stake in the Li family, her current focus should be on wholeheartedly conceiving their baby.

    In the bedroom, Li Zhen took out a little umbre.

    It still hadn''t worked after all this time; perhaps the pinhole was too small before.

    She carefully examined the little umbre and indeed didn''t see any pinholes.

    Li Zhen found a needle and made arger hole thanst time!

    But when she took a closer look, the hole seemed a bit exaggerated...

    No worries, she could simply turn off the lights next time and personally put it on him.

    ---

    The photo shoot for the spokesperson of the studio''s advertisement had beenpleted.

    Li Zhen and all her colleagues from the advertising department returned to Honghai Headquarters.

    On Monday, thepany distributed quarterly benefits.

    Li Zhen went to the administrative department with Zhang Xiya to collect them.

    Zhang Xiya held Li Zhen''s arm and said, "Xiao Zhen Zhen, aren''t you a fan of Luna, the popr actress? She recently signed on to a big-budget film called ''Moon''s Mark,'' which is based on a captivating historical mystery novel. The original book is incredibly good!"

    "Moon''s Mark got a remake?" Li Zhen''s eyes instantly lit up.

    She had been a fan of the novel back in her middle school days and loved it to bits.

    She never expected it would eventually be adapted into a movie.

    "You can''t be a fake fan, can you? This news has been trending..." Zhang Xiya rolled her eyes at Li Zhen and then smiled, "It will be released in a few months. Let''s all go watch it together!"

    The two of them continued chatting as they entered the administrative department.

    Li Zhen still had a smile on her face, but as soon as she stepped in, she saw Yu Sheng standing inside.

    Her smile involuntarily froze.

 Chapter 125: Not Without Arms and Legs

    <h4>Chapter 125</h4>

    Yu Sheng and Tian Pingwei went together, obviously not noticing Li Zhen.

    Yu Sheng was often either entertaining, or working overtime in the marketing department, or on a business trip. Except for the people in the marketing department, those who got to see him in other administrative departments were few and far between.

    When collecting quarterly benefits from colleagues in other administrative departments, everyone''s eyes couldn''t help but look at Yu Sheng.

    Leng Jun''s temperament, his wless features.

    No matter how you look at him, he''s appealing.

    The female colleagues'' cameras were on mute, giggling as they sneakily snapped away.

    After taking the pictures they would send them to the handsome guys group to happily share.

    Xu Yu, the supervisor of the administrative department, was registering Tian Pingwei.

    Tian Pingwei smiled as he signed, "Supervisor Xu, I borrowed a hand truck from our marketing department to make a few more trips to take everything away together."

    "Sure, Little Tian." Xu Yu responded.

    Then she looked at Yu Sheng next to him, "Director Yu, howe you came in person today?"

    "Not busy, so I came to take a look." Yu Sheng replied.

    Xu Yu raised her brows.

    To hear the two words "not busy" from Yu Sheng was truly rare.

    But since he already resigned, now was thest month of the handover period, so it made sense that he wasn''t busy.

    "Director Yu cultivated Manager Zhao and is retiring after a sessful career. It really is praiseworthy." Xu Yu sincerelyplimented.

    Zhao Yan was someone Yu Sheng had personally nurtured, and recently there was talk that the position of Marketing Director would most likely go to Zhao Yan.

    Yu Sheng''s features were hard and sharp, but when he spoke his words were appropriately affable, "Manager Zhao was already outstanding, I can''t take any credit for cultivating her."

    "What ns does Director Yu have after resigning?"

    "Take care of some personal affairs at home first, then try starting a smallpany."

    Xu Yu suddenly understood.

    Yu Sheng had climbed to the position of Marketing Director at Huahai Technologies in no time. With his experience and connections, starting his ownpany would be easy as pie.

    But knowing Yu Sheng''s proud and aloof personality, Xu Yu didn''t think he would really only start a "small"pany.

    "Personal affairs at home?" Xu Yu saw that today Yu Sheng was responding to her questions and answers, so gossip got the better of her for a moment, "Don''t tell me Director Yu is going matchmaking again?"

    As soon as Xu Yu said this.

    Almost everyone around pricked up their ears and turned them into antennas.

    The melon about Yu Sheng and Li Zhen''s divorce was eaten ferociously and chokefully by everyone, and they didn''t even have time to properly digest it. As soon as there was a whiff of gossip, their blood started boiling instantly.

    "Matchmaking?" Yu Sheng''s brows furrowed unpleasantly.

    "Yes, after all you and Li Zhen have already divor..." Xu Yu realized she was prying too much and promptly hit the brakes.

    Everyone was left wing at their hearts and lungs.

    Ask! Don''t wimp out, ask!

    Zhang Xiya, who was with Li Zhen, was registering with Xiao Cai.

    But she saw Xiao Cai was watching something with a gossiping expression.

    Li Zhen followed Xiao Cai''s line of sight.

    She saw Yu Sheng and Xu Yu chatting in the distance.

    And the people around Yu Sheng seemed to be craning their necks and straining their ears to listen to him.

    In the distance, Yu Sheng''s voice turned icy cold, "It''s not divorce, just a small quarrel between husband and wife, Director Xu misunderstood."

    Li Zhen looked astonished.

    She took out her phone and looked at the chat record with Yu Sheng. She had indeed sent the marriage certificate.

    Xu Yu: "Director Yu, I think there is some misunderstanding about this matter on your part. I feel that Li Zhen she..."

    "Director Yu, everything''s loaded up." Tian Pingwei interrupted, wiping his sweat.

    "Mm." Yu Sheng nodded.

    Tian Pingwei loaded the quarterly employee benefits onto the hand truck. It took some time, stacked about half a person''s height, tightly bundled and able to hold a lot.

    The two headed out.

    But after leaving the administrative department, Yu Sheng didn''t walk any further.

    Tian Pingwei was puzzled, and also stopped.

    Two minutester.

    Li Zhen and Zhang Xiya came out from inside.

    Before Li Zhen could react, the things in her hands were already taken away.

    Li Zhen looked up, "Yu Sheng?"

    Tian Pingwei suddenly understood.

    Director Yu was actually waiting for Li Zhen!

    "Is your health a bit better?" Yu Sheng took Li Zhen''s things and pressed the elevator button.

    Tian Pingwei and Zhang Xiya looked at each other, was Director Yu not hiding his past rtionship with Li Zhen at thepany at all?

    The elevator opened, but Li Zhen didn''t move, "Yu Sheng, what are you doing?"

    "The things are heavy, I''ll take you back to the advertising department." Yu Sheng''s cold eyes looked at her calmly.

    "I''m not crippled, don''t need you to take me."

    The atmosphere suddenly turned icy.

    Tian Pingwei shuddered, the strange atmosphere made his scalp tingle, he took a step into the elevator, "Uh...Director Yu, I''ll head back to the office first."

    After saying that, seeing that Zhang Xiya was still stunned, he pulled her into the elevator.

    The elevator doors closed.

    Li Zhen also stopped pretending to be so calm, and frowned in irritation, "Yu Sheng, didn''t you see the marriage certificate I sent?"

    "I saw it."

    "Then just now..."

    Yu Sheng interrupted, his voice suddenly turning icy cold, "Last time was my mistake, but you shouldn''t have photoshopped a fake marriage certificate either."

    "That was real!"

    "The original."

    "What original?"

    "You said it''s real, then show me the original." Yu Sheng''s voice waspletely t.

    For a moment, Li Zhen really wanted to smash the original in Yu Sheng''s face.

    But Yu Sheng''s mad appearancest time was vivid in her mind, especially that line "You like him? Then let his ashes apany you your whole life," it was still echoing by her ears.

    She couldn''t let Yu Sheng know it was Lu Yanming.

    Li Zhen''s hesitation made Yu Sheng even more certain of his spection.

    He softened his tone, "Is your health a bit better? Last time I..."

    As Yu Sheng spoke, he wanted to grab Li Zhen''s hand.

    But suddenly, an icy cold voice sounded from behind, "Director Yu."

    Yu Sheng retracted his hand and turned around.

    Lu Yanming and Wang Peng were standing behind him.

    The lenses of Lu Yanming''s sses glinted coldly, "Director Yu, since you''re leaving soon, you should spend more time on the handover. Dragging things out in thepany doesn''t look good."

    Yu Sheng met Lu Yanming''s gaze, sensing something amiss.

    Zhao Yan had said Lu Yanming was chasing Qiao Yi, so he was nice to Li Zhen by association.

    But wasn''t Lu Yanming appearing by Li Zhen''s side too frequently?

    "Director Lu probably doesn''t know, I resigned precisely to..." Yu Sheng slowly enunciated three words, "Coax the wife."

    After saying that, he turned to look at Li Zhen again, "You''re sulking, I know it''s because I was too busy before. After resigning this time, my focus will be at home."

    Li Zhen listened with a frown, "Yu Sheng, how many times do I have to say it, I''m not sulking!"

    Yu Sheng''s brows furrowed low, his tone suddenly turning icy cold, "You can still be angry if you want, but I''ll only ept a cold war for one week at most."

    Wang Peng was shocked listening to this.

    So the divorce was just a lover''s spat? No wonder, he said Yu Sheng cared so much about his wife, how could he possibly divorce.

    Yu Sheng actually didn''t want to make it so clear that he was yielding to Li Zhen in thepany.

    But he realized something was slipping out of his control.

    Li Zhen''s attitude recently made him uneasy.

    Especially after seeing Lu Yanming, the invisible sense of crisis made Yu Sheng subconsciously feel like he should make things clear.

    "Within one week, resolve your emotions yourself and move back home." Yu Sheng gave an ultimatum.

    He ignored Li Zhen''s stunned and shocked expression, and strode off to leave.

    But as he passed Lu Yanming, he suddenly heard a light chuckle.

    That chuckle, not too light or heavy, seeped out from Lu Yanming''s throat, carrying a chill.

    "Director Yu, there''s something I''ve been wanting to tell you for a long time."

 Chapter 126: Make It by Hand

    <h4>Chapter 126</h4>

    Lu Yanming: "I and..."

    "Mr. Lu!" Li Zhen was so frightened that her hair stood on end. "Mr. Lu, Mr. Wang, you came to the HR department to see everyone get their quarterly benefits, right? Go ahead, I''ll go back to the office first."

    Li Zhen pressed the elevator button, and the elevator arrived after a few seconds.

    She hurriedly pushed Yu Sheng in.

    There were still many other people in the elevator.

    The elevator door closed slowly.

    Lu Yanming was outside the elevator, standing tall and aloof, the usual gentle light in his eyes now remote and hard to fathom, seeming sad.

    But sadness was not a word to describe Lu Yanming.

    Li Zhen felt a twinge in her heart, an indescribable emotion pricking her lightly.

    Lu Yanming''s eyes behind the gold wire sses stayed fixed on her as the elevator closed, his gaze and the inexplicably sad look on his face gradually disappeared before Li Zhen¡¯s eyes.

    Li Zhen regretted it.

    She shouldn''t have used her remarriage as a shield. This remarriage was just a temporary sham marriage halfway down the road. She shouldn''t have hurt Lu Yanming.

    When she arrived at the advertising department, Li Zhen raced out of the elevator.

    Yu Sheng followed after her.

    There weren''t many people in the hallway outside the advertising department.

    Li Zhen looked back at him. "Yu Sheng, I thought about it carefully just now. Maybe it was because I was too agitated when I told you my thoughts earlier, making you mistakenly think I was being petnt."

    She took a shallow breath and said calmly, "Let me seriously discuss with you. I''m determined to end our marriage, not on a whim, and I never thought about remarrying."

    "Your so-called determination is only because I neglected you before," Yu Sheng said lightly as he lifted his eyes slightly. His tone was slightly cold as he spoke slowly but earnestly, "Li Zhen, I will change."

    Wasn''t this the purpose of her cold war?

    She should be satisfied now.

    She shouldn''t argue with him anymore.

    He didn''t want to argue anymore or be estranged anymore.

    Yu Sheng¡¯s unyielding words made Li Zhen unable to restrain her irritation again.

    "It''s not about changing or not changing..."

    Hearing her impatience, Yu Sheng interrupted in a low voice, "Enough, stop talking. Remember my words, move back in a week."

    Having said that, he turned and left.

    Li Zhen was stunned, almost exploding with anger on the spot.

    Now she understood.

    Yu Sheng simply wouldn''t listen to her.

    No matter what she said or how she said it, he just didn''t believe her!

    "Little Mengmeng..." Zhang Xiya suddenly appeared behind Li Zhen and pulled her sleeve. "Look at you, you''re as angry as a pufferfish..."

    Li Zhen: ......

    Li Zhen was stunned for a second, thenughed with resignation and gratitude.

    The irritation umted in her chest dissipated somewhat.

    Zhang Xiya hooked her arm around Li Zhen''s arm and kissed her cheek with a "pop". "Alright, alright. Let''s go to the bar and drink tonight! Forget everything else.¡±

    -

    At 7pm in the evening, Yu Sheng returned home.

    Jinluyuanmunity was lit up, and Wu Ma hurried to open the yard gate when she saw hime back.

    "Mr. Yu, Mr. Kong is here already."

    "The yellow rosewood and antique bronze mirror you bid on at the auction this weekend arrived this morning."

    "Mr. Kong is in the backyard sawing the wood for you."

    "Mm." Yu Sheng nodded and went to the backyard.

    By theke in the backyard, a middle-aged man was holding an electric saw, looking at the pile of yellow rosewood on the ground, at a loss where to start.

    "Uncle Kong." Yu Sheng went to stand next to the middle-aged man.

    When Kong Yi saw Yu Shenge over, he frowned and asked, "Are you really going to use it to make a dresser?"

    "Yes, I made one for her when we were in college. I identally broke it," Yu Sheng said, running his hand over the rosewood, quite satisfied. "I''ll make a new one."

    "Such a waste!" Kong Yi sighed up to the sky.

    Yellow rosewood was the king of woods, with an inherent fragrance that could be used in medicine, and was extremely rare.

    This piece of yellow rosewood was a particrly rare fine specimen. Its auction price yesterday made the news, selling for nearly 500 million.

    Kong Yi really couldn''t bring himself to saw it into pieces.

    "Uncle Kong, the dresser I made for her in college was the one you taught me to make. It''s been four or five years now, I''ve forgotten most of it. Can you walk me through the steps again?"

    "Why go through so much trouble, it¡¯d be better to just buy a new one," Kong Yi advised him, feeling sorry for the precious wood.

    Yu Sheng lowered his eyes. "I want her to use something I made with my own hands every day."

    Seeing he couldn''t dissuade him, Kong Yi could only assist at the side.

    As Yu Sheng sawed, he asked, "Uncle Kong, isn''t your drama

    <i>Moon Scar</i> starting filming soon?"

    "Yes, don''t worry about advertising imntations you mentioned earlier, send someone to discuss the details anytime."

    "Okay. Has the female lead been decided?"

    "You''re asking because...could it be for little Li?" Kong Yi was puzzled, but instantly realized.

    With his head lowered, Yu Sheng smoothed the wood leisurely and naturally, skilled and at ease. "Yes, now my mom doesn''t care about us either. She''s always wanted to get into showbiz."

    Saying this, his movements paused imperceptibly. "I''ve held her back for many years."

    Yu Sheng''s expression was obscured as he lowered his head again to carefully polish the wood. "Uncle Kong, I''ll double the investment in <i>Moon Scar</i> for you. You can make the costumes and special effects top notch, and go for all the international awards with it. Let Li Zhen y the female lead, please guide her for me."

    Kong Yi watched as Yu Sheng handled the wood attentively and carefully, not leaving any splinters or sharp edges.

    He instantly understood.

    "You called me here pretending to ask about making furniture, but you actually wanted to rmend little Li, didn''t you?" Kong Yi said with a smile.

    In fact, the female lead was already set as Luna.

    Also a very spirited actress.

    But with doubled financing...

    And since Yu Sheng had asked, he couldn''t easily refuse either.

    Just as Kong Yi was about to agree, his pants pocket vibrated with an iing call. "Let me take this call."

    Kong Yi''s expression changed instantly when he picked up. "What? ......He said so himself? ......This is...oh...hmm..."

    Kong Yi hung up with a frown.

    Yu Sheng nced over. "What''s the matter, Uncle Kong?"

    "Well..." Kong Yi looked troubled. "I''m afraid Little Li ying the female lead won''t work out. Someone from the National Radio and Television Administration called the person on our side. He wants to cast the female lead."

    "Who?" Yu Sheng furrowed his brow.

    Who could make Kong Yi refuse him and agree to them instead?

    "The top boss." Kong Yi sighed.

    He could refuse anyone, but absolutely not the top boss at the National Radio and Television Administration. If he was unhappy, whether this drama could even be released would be hard to say.

    Which actress pulled strings?

    Such influence!

    And happened to hit his soft spot right on.

    "As long as she''s cast, it¡¯s fine. We can go over again after filming starts...she doesn¡¯t pensation..."

    After the call, Fei Zhao put down his phone and nced back.

    "Young Master, the <i>Moon Scar</i> matter is settled."

    "Good." Lu Yanming responded lightly. Through the car window he looked towards the entrance of the bar. "What time is it?"

    Fei Zhao checked the time. "Eleven...Miss Li and the others are quite high, been drinking for hours...they couldn''t all be drunk, don''t let them be taken advantage of..."

    Fei Zhao was still chattering away.

    The backseat door opened.

    Lu Yanming tidied his already impable suit jacket and stepped into the bar.

 Chapter 127: Still Angry

    <h4>Chapter 127</h4>

    In the middle of a booth at the bar, four people were having a great time.

    "Xiya lost!"

    "Choose! Truth or dare?"

    Zhang Xiya, in a drunken state, mmed the table with a bold gesture and eximed, "Dare!"

    Meng Yuanjie, already feeling the effects of the alcohol, shook his head and suggested, "Then go... and confess to the person at the next table! And ask for their contact information..."

    Li Zhen sat there with a cheerful smile on her fair face, herplexion tinged with the haze of alcohol.

    Amidst the cheers of the crowd, she took out her phone and scrolled through her chat history with Lu Yanming.

    He must be upset today.

    Should she say something to him?

    What if he gets so angry that he doesn''t let here back to the Huayang Mingmen tonight?

    Li Zhen had consumed quite a bit of alcohol, her mind was muddled, and she couldn''t think clearly.

    "Not a big deal..." Zhang Xiya got up unsteadily and stumbled over to the adjacent table.

    One of the young men at the table had delicate features and hadn''t had much to drink.

    When he heard someone approaching, he smiled and looked at Zhang Xiya.

    "Young man, I..."

    "I overheard what you guys were saying." The young man smiled and took out his phone, showing his WeChat QR code.

    "Sure, young man, you seem decent!" Zhang Xiya chuckled, but she didn''t add him as a friend.

    The task was to confess and strike up a conversation, not necessarily to add each other.

    Zhang Xiya returned to the booth.

    But to her surprise, the young man followed her back.

    The young man took out his phone, his face flushed from not drinking, and held the QR code up to Li Zhen. "Hello, may I... add you on WeChat?"

    Zhang Xiya and the othersughed on the sidelines.

    Li Zhen''s mind was foggy, and for a moment, she didn''t react. She just stared nkly at the young man, blinked her beautiful eyes gently.

    In the next second, a tall figure stood in front of the young man.

    "Kid."

    "Don''t touch someone else''s flower when it already has an owner."

    The voice was deep and cold, radiating an intimidating aura.

    The young man looked up and saw a man in a well-tailored suit with striking features.

    He appeared to be around thirty years old, exuding an air of sess. The watch on his wrist was so expensive it left people speechless.

    The rival''s presence was overpowering, and the young man''s aura instantly wilted. "I''m sorry, I''m sorry."

    After speaking, he hurriedly returned to his seat.

    "Mr. Lu."

    Everyone in the booth greeted Lu Yanming in unison.

    Zhang Xiya, Meng Yuanjie, and Li Zhen exchanged nces, and the atmosphere became awkward.

    They never expected that their boss would show up here.

    Lu Yanming nodded to everyone and sat down next to Li Zhen. "Carry on, everyone. Don''t mind me, I''ll just sit here and wait for Zhen Zhen."

    Lu Yanming was tall with long legs, and the booth was not very spacious.

    As soon as he sat down, his leg almost touched Li Zhen''s.

    Li Zhen felt stiff all over.

    Qiao Yi was the first to react. "Alright, Mr. Lu, please have a seat!"

    For the first few minutes, everyone was a bit tense, but Lu Yanming simply sat quietly, his powerful presence reined in.

    Before long, the group of people who had been drinking started to loosen up.

    The more they drank, the livelier they became.

    The table was already filled with bottles of alcohol.

    The bar was bustling with people, and amidst the excitement, Li Zhen took the opportunity to turn and look at the person beside her, whispering, "Mr. Lu, why did youe?"

    Li Zhen''s face was flushed from the effects of alcohol.

    As she spoke, her whole body swayed, and her head almost leaned on Lu Yanming''s shoulder.

    "Just passing by," Lu Yanming lifted his eyes and looked back at her.

    She stared directly at him, her gaze unwavering, blinking slowly as if unable to focus.

    It seemed she was quite intoxicated.

    Li Zhen gave him a look as if to say, "Do you think I believe you?"

    After a two-second silence, Li Zhen tilted her head back and asked tentatively, "Are you still angry?"

    "I''m still angry," Lu Yanming replied seriously.

    Li Zhen: ...

    He''s still angry and came to the bar to find her?

    What kind of anger is this?

    Li Zhen couldn''t understand, so she sullenly stopped talking.

    Zhang Xiya rolled up her sleeves, looking like a drunken hooligan. "Little Zhen Zhen, drink up! The alcohol is waiting to raise fish!"

    Meng Yuanjie also unsteadily picked up a ss. "Come on, Li Zhen, let''s toast..."

    Just as Li Zhen was about to pick up her ss, Lu Yanming had already taken it first.

    "Zhen Zhen is drunk, I''ll drink for her," Lu Yanming downed the drink in one gulp, his Adam''s apple rolling.

    Zhang Xiya ced the ss on the table with a loud thud. "Who are you? What right do you have to drink for our little Zhen Zhen?"

    Qiao Yi: ...

    Meng Yuanjie: ...

    Li Zhen: ...

    Meng Yuanjie stood up abruptly, covering Zhang Xiya''s mouth. "You, you idiot, this is Mr. Lu!"

    "Mr. Lu... Who is Mr. Lu..." Zhang Xiya, drunk and with great strength, pushed Meng Yuanjie''s hand away. "Oh, I remember... Our five-second heartthrob..."

    The atmosphere suddenly fell silent.

    Zhang Xiya squeezed herself between Li Zhen and Lu Yanming, her eyes ncing at Lu Yanming''s chest. "Five-second heartthrob, your... your pectoral muscles are quite big!"

    As she spoke, Zhang Xiya reached out and touched Lu Yanming''s chest like an old man strolling through a brothel!

    Li Zhen felt dizzy, watching Zhang Xiya''s actions.

    Meng Yuanjie and Qiao Yi were dumbfounded!

    The alcohol instantly sobered them up!

    Oh my god!

    Zhang Xiya must not want to live anymore!

    When Zhang Xiya was just a centimeter away from touching Lu Yanming, Meng Yuanjie grabbed her wrist and pulled her away from the two of them.

    Zhang Xiya struggled in Meng Yuanjie''s arms. "What are you doing! Stingy, can''t even let me touch once!"

    Her mouth didn''t stop at all.

    "Little Zhen Zhen, did you really sleep with Mr. Lu... hup... share your experience... hup..."

    "Is it really five seconds? Give me a definite answer... hup..."

    It''s over, it''s over, it''s over!

    Sharing the experience right in front of Mr. Lu?

    And unfortunately, Li Zhen''s mind waspletely frozen, nodding in agreement. "Not five seconds, it canst a whole night..."

    "Zhen Zhen..." Lu Yanming chuckled softly, interrupting warmly, "If you want to share my experience, can you do it when I''m not present?"

    As soon as Lu Yanming finished speaking, Zhang Xiya''s face came close to the two of them. "Silly child, gossip loses its meaning when spoken in front of the person involved."

    Li Zhen nodded dazedly, "You''re right, you''re absolutely right!"

    Qiao Yi: ...

    Meng Yuanjie: ...

    These two people!

    Zhang Xiya picked up a wine bottle

    And thrust it near Lu Yanming''s mouth.

    "Come on, Five-Second Heartthrob, here''s your chance to speak for yourself..."

    Qiao Yi couldn''t bear to watch and hurriedly pulled Zhang Xiya along with Meng Yuanjie as they walked outside. "Mr. Lu, Xiya is a bit drunk today, please don''t mind! We''ll take her home first. Could you help and take Zhen Zhen home too?"

    Lu Yanming nodded.

    After they left, Lu Yanming stood up and looked up at the person sitting there, swaying and tilting. He bent down and effortlessly lifted Li Zhen up.

    Normally, when someone was princess-carried and lifted off the ground, they would be nervous and hold on tight to the person carrying them. But Li Zhen was already quite drunk.

    As they soared into the air, Li Zhen eximed, "Woo-hoo, takeoff!"

    A slight smile tugged at the corner of Lu Yanming''s lips as he chuckled and sighed.

 Chapter 128: The Wrong Approach

    <h4>Chapter 128</h4>

    Lu Yanming carried Li Zhen out of the bar.

    Fei Zhao quickly opened the car door and eximed, "Oh my, Miss Li, how much did you drink..."

    Once in the car, Fei Zhao drove towards the Blooming Manor.

    Li Zhen felt hot all over and squirmed in Lu Yanming''s arms.

    Lu Yanming''s expression darkened slightly as he whispered, "Zhen Zhen, don''t move."

    "I feel ufortable... it''s hot..." Li Zhen tugged at her cor, wanting to take off her clothes.

    "Zhen Zhen..." Lu Yanming couldn''t stop her in time.

    Li Zhen had already taken off her upper garment, leaving only her underwear. "Why stop me? This is my own home, I... I want to take it off..."

    Fair and smooth skin caught Lu Yanming''s eye.

    His breath hitched.

    He momentarily forgot to react.

    Fei Zhao heard themotion, his eyes quick and his hands faster, immediately raising the partition between the front and back seats.

    After some thought, he turned up the volume of the music in the car.

    It''s not that he didn''t want to listen.

    It''s that he dared not listen!

    Is gossip more important, or is their reputation more important?

    After a satisfying meal, he could still make the distinction.

    Fei Zhao listened to the music contentedly, humming along.

    But Li Zhen was unhappy, "The music is so loud..."

    "You''re no better." Lu Yanming helplessly dressed Li Zhen again.

    "I won''t wear it, it''s ufortable..." Li Zhen frowned, tugging at her clothes but unable to remove them. Now she couldn''t take them off.

    She and the hem of her clothes were firmly held down by Lu Yanming. "This isn''t our home, you can''t take off your clothes."

    Her eyes immediately turned red, a pair of unfocused eyes staring at Lu Yanming with a pitiful look. "Then unhook my bra... I... I can''t breathe..."

    Lu Yanming''s fingers curled slightly, his expressionplex. "Zhen Zhen, do you know who I am?"

    "Smack, smack..."

    Li Zhen raised her hand in his embrace and lightly patted his face, muttering to herself, "Has he gone crazy... forgetting that he''s Lu Yanming... it''s over, he''s already old, and now his mind is going bad... hmm..."

    Lu Yanming leaned down and kissed her, his distinct knuckles sliding into her clothes.

    "Click."

    The sp was unfastened by him.

    Li Zhen suddenly felt her breathing be much easier.

    But Lu Yanming''s slender hand didn''t leave.

    Li Zhen was kissed until she felt dizzy.

    But her body was burning from the alcohol.

    Lu Yanming''s hand brought a cool sensation as it gently massaged her. It made her feel extremelyfortable.

    Until he applied a little more force.

    Li Zhen let out a low cry.

    It hurt!

    Lu Yanming lifted his head, his hoarse voice warm and deep. "Fei Zhao."

    "Understood! Young Master!" Fei Zhao''s face lit up with a smile, skillfully turning into a deserted alley.

    Opening the door, getting out of the car, closing the door.

    All in one breath.

    Last time he squatted on the side of the road to watch a movie, and his legs went numb.

    Fei Zhao learned from that experience and sat directly on the edge of the road.

    Inside the car, Li Zhen pulled at his hand,ining with a puffed-up face, "Let go of me! I... I''m in pain..."

    Lu Yanming''s voice grew even softer as he sighed, "Zhen Zhen, if your pain can make you ask me to let go, then what should I do when I''m in pain?"

    "What... What''s hurting you?" Li Zhen asked.

    "Everywhere hurts." Lu Yanming lowered his head.

    He kissed the corner of her moist eyes.

    Massaged her neck.

    Moved.

    Li Zhen''s nerves jumped in pain.

    "If only you could understand how unhappy I am today, Zhen Zhen..." Lu Yanming''s voice was hoarse, filled with resentment.

    Tears streamed down Li Zhen''s face as she struggled, "Let go, Lu Yanming!"

    Lu Yanming released her and tenderly kissed her, "Be good, it doesn''t hurt anymore. I''ll make it up to you."

    With that, Lu Yanming reached out his hand.

    Li Zhen: ...

    Time stretched on endlessly.

    Li Zhen''s breathing was heavy, and she was so desperate that she cursed, "Lu Yanming, get lost!"

    Lu Yanming chuckled.

    "Zhen Zhen, you say it hurts, but your body is saying something else."

    "It''s not..." Li Zhen''s consciousness snapped back momentarily, and the alcohol-induced blush receded slightly.

    Her whole body felt even hotter, as if she had been thrown into moltenva.

    "Alright, if my Zhen Zhen says it''s not, then it''s not..." Lu Yanming lowered his head and kissed her deeply.

    Li Zhen frantically grabbed his hand, whimpering.

    She waspletely undone!

    Li Zhen''s consciousness sporadically returned.

    She forcefully pushed Lu Yanming away, panting, "Lu Yanming! What''s wrong with you!"

    Lu Yanming suddenlyughed, burying his head in Li Zhen''s chest, hisughter soft.

    Li Zhen felt a mix of grievance and confusion, "What are youughing at..."

    "Zhen Zhen, when you''re angry and call my name, it sounds much better than calling me ''Mr. Lu'' seriously."

    Li Zhen pouted, her mind spinning, unable to think straight, "You''re silly, scolding you and you find it amusing..."

    "Don''t be angry, Zhen Zhen. Let''s do something happy."

    Lu Yanming''s pleasant voice echoed in the car, as he lowered his head to lift Li Zhen''s upper body, passionately kissing her.

    Li Zhen''s breathing grew rapid.

    Her body tensed like a taut bowstring.

    Lu Yanming was extremely patient, a muffled chuckle escaping his throat, "Zhen Zhen, with you like this, I can''t hold back..."

    A gust of cold wind blew past.

    The movie ended, Fei Zhao raised his head, massaging his sore neck.

    He nced back at the car not far away...

    Wow!

    They''re making quite amotion!

    Having a big car makes a difference.

    The experience was exhrating. Were the two of them going to have a great time?

    "Ah... let''s watch another movie..." Fei Zhao reopened his phone.

    -

    Lu Yanming carried Li Zhen back to Huayang Mingmen, they entered the bathroom for a shower, and then he ced her on the bed.

    Li Zhen was exhausted, on the verge of falling asleep.

    But Lu Yanming helped her sit up, saying, "Zhen Zhen, have some hangover soup. Otherwise, you''ll have a headache tomorrow."

    Li Zhen irritably pushed it away, "No."

    She was about to lie back down.

    But in the next second,

    Lu Yanming took a sip himself, then kissed her, passing it to her.

    Li Zhen: ...

    -

    The next day, in a coffee shop.

    Jiang Keyan, dressed in professional attire, nced at the time.

    She had already been waiting for ten minutes and her patience was wearing thin. She picked up her bag and was about to leave.

    But at that moment, the person she was waiting for arrived.

    Li Yanran arrivedte, took off her sunsses, and ced them on the table, "Sorry, there was traffic on the way."

    Jiang Keyan looked at the person in front of her and felt a deep hatred, grinding her teeth.

    But now, it''s already toote to make any difference.

    She actually wanted to hear what the person in front of her would say.

    Seeing Jiang Keyan''s emotions calm down, Li Yanran spoke slowly, "I just provided some information to your sister, and it was your sister who chose the wrong approach."

    "What do you mean?" Jiang Keyan asked coldly.

 Chapter 129: 199 Roses

    <h4>Chapter 129</h4>

    "Isn''t your younger sister trying to break up Yu Sheng and Li Zhen? Do you think it''s enough to just get Li Zhen to leave MacroSea?"

    Jiang Keyan: "Heh, there''s no need for us to break them up now. Li Zhen and Yu Sheng have already gotten divorced."

    "Naive," Li Yanranughed. "Do you know Yu Sheng just withdrew from the Yu family registry for Li Zhen recently? You think Yu Sheng really wants to divorce Li Zhen?"

    Li Yanran had only recently looked into things at Li Zhen''spany and found out she and Yu Sheng were already divorced.

    "Li Zhen is so lucky to have Yu Sheng protecting her, someone who dotes on her, and will have a man spending endless money on her in the future..." Li Yanran said, predictably seeing anger and resentment on Jiang Keyan''s face.

    Li Yanran leisurely continued, "So, to deal with Li Zhen, she needs to bepletely ruined..."

    Jiang Keyan raised her head, staring at the person across from her, "Just who are you? Why do you want to deal with Li Zhen?"

    "That''s not something you should know. But the enemy of my enemy is my friend. We''re friends now." Li Yanran''s tone was calm. She continued coldlyughing, "There''s someone in your department called Qu Hu..."

    In the employee cafeteria, Zhang Xiya was eating with her head lowered.

    She chewed two grains of rice for a long time before picking up another two grains and putting them in her mouth.

    Meng Yuanjie advised, "Xiya, you can''t keep going on like this. You won''t eat enough and won''t have energy to feel awkward."

    Zhang Xiya pouted, "It''s all your fault! You didn''t stop me!"

    The memories from the night at the bar all came back when she woke up.

    Thinking about how she had even wanted to touch President Lu''s pecs.

    Asking him about the experience right in front of him.

    Zhang Xiya wanted to bang her head on a wall.

    Li Zhen quickly denied responsibility, "I was drunk too..."

    "Xiya, you were as strong as an oxst night. It was thanks to heaven we managed to pull you away in the end!" Qiao Yi red at her.

    Zhang Xiya was tearful, "Oh heavens! I hope President Lu has a goldfish memory and has already forgotten about today."

    "You might as well pray you forget instead, that would be more reliable." Meng Yuanjie mocked.

    Zhang Xiya mimed punching him, "Shut up."

    Meng Yuanjie leaned back, and his elbow bumped into someone passing by him.

    It was Jiang Keyan.

    Jiang Keyan gave him a cold stare, then looked at Li Zhen.

    She didn''t say anything and continued walking forward.

    Zhang Xiya said unhappily, "Little Zhen Zhen, I feel like the way she looked at you just now was odd. Maybe she''s plotting something nasty..."

    In the corner of the cafeteria, Qu Hu was looking at his phone.

    On his phone were photos of Li Zhen from university, which Qu Hu kept flipping through. Photos from all angles, all of Li Zhen.

    A few steps away, Jiang Keyan watched coldly.

    It seemed what Li Yanran said was true after all.

    So there was someone else in their department who had been watching Li Zhen all this time...

    Jiang Keyan walked over and set her tray down. "Qu Hu, what are you looking at?"

    Qu Hu hurriedly put his phone away. "Manager Jiang."

    "I heard you went to the same university as Li Zhen?" Jiang Keyan took out a piece of paper and wiped the table.

    "Yes, Manager Jiang."

    "Then howe I''ve never heard you chat with President Yu and Li Zhen? Or talk about them?"

    Qu Hu looked ufortable. Heughed twice, "Other than his roommate and Li Zhen, President Yu didn''t interact with other people much in university."

    Not just Yu Sheng, Li Zhen was the same.

    Only Zhou Chao Wen and a few others could talk to them.

    "I see..." Jiang Keyan nodded thoughtfully. "I heard Li Zhen was very popr in university, right?"

    Qu Hu kept his head lowered. "Yes, she was quite popr in university..."

    But Yu Sheng protected her very closely.

    Qu Hu knew Li Zhen and Yu Sheng were hiding their rtionship at thepany, so he never brought it up.

    But now Yu Sheng himself had announced they were divorced.

    Everyone knew now.

    "No wonder." Jiang Keyan spoke casually. "I heard from people in the advertising department that now everyone knows Li Zhen is single, many are asking her out to hang out and stuff. She''s so popr, so I guess those who like her better hurry up..."

    Jiang Keyan nced at him. "Otherwise, if they missed their chance before, they have it now but don''t take action, what a shame."

    After speaking, Jiang Keyan lowered her head to eat without saying anything else.

    Qu Hu clenched the chopsticks in his hand.

    Manager Jiang was right.

    Now Li Zhen had even been divorced once, but this was his first marriage.

    He was more than a match for Li Zhen too.

    In the past few days.

    The advertising department had been exceptionally lively.

    For several days in a row now, someone had sent Li Zhen flowers.

    There was no name, just the two English initials "QH" on the card.

    "This guy is going overboard today! A few small bouquets thest few days was one thing, but 199 roses? Her whole desk can''t even fit them all." Zhang Xiyained.

    Meng Yuanjie mocked, "And he didn''t even leave any contact info or anything. If she wants to reject him, she can''t even get in touch. Li Zhen is quite helpless having a suitor like this."

    Li Zhen threw the flowers in the trash.

    Ren Zongshun, who was printing documents nearby, smiled and said, "Our Li Zhen is just so charming, look, she gets roses from admirers every day."

    Li Zhen gave Ren Zongshun a speechless look.

    Ever since Ren Zongshun found out she and Yu Sheng used to be married, she just couldn''t get used to his way of speaking anymore.

    After speaking, Ren Zongshun went upstairs for a presentation.

    In the small office upstairs.

    The nning, marketing, and advertising departments were present, along with Wang Peng and several executive vice presidents, waiting for the meeting to start.

    Yu Sheng sat leisurely.

    Zhao Yan next to him was very nervous. "President Yu, am I really summarizing the proposalter?"

    "Why are you panicking?" Yu Sheng nced at the sweat on Zhao Yan''s forehead and said coldly, "Go back if you don''t think you can handle it."

    "I...I can do it!" Zhao Yan nodded hastily.

    Yu Sheng''s policy was "step up if you can, get lost if you can''t", but it was also under Yu Sheng''s high-pressure training that Zhao Yan knew his abilities had grown by leaps and bounds.

    He also knew Yu Sheng was deliberately grooming him.

    "Manager Zhao, whether you can or can''t, you''ve got to!" Wang Peng joined in the chat before the meeting even started. "President Yu rmended Manager Zhao to me several times. Now that he''s leaving, Manager Zhao will have to shoulder the marketing department. I feel the department has lost its pir with President Yu''s departure. Manager Zhao, you''ll need tomunicate more with your direct supervisor, President Lu, in the future..."

    Rmendation? That goes without saying.

    Naturally it was for the position of Marketing President after Yu Sheng left.

    Zhao Yan looked at Yu Sheng gratefully.

    The Marketing President position wasn''t so easily obtained, but with Yu Sheng''s rmendation, regardless of the final oue, he would remember this favor.

    Yu Sheng nced at Lu Yanming, who had remained silent. "With President Lu overseeing the marketing department, I believe the department''s performance will reach greater heights than when I was here."

    Lu Yanming sat right next to Wang Peng, separated from Yu Sheng by one seat.

    Normally, the proper response to words like Yu Sheng''s would be polite modesty like "President Yu''s aplishments are unmatched".

    But Lu Yanming''s voice was deep and unhurried as he uttered four words.

    "That is natural."

 Chapter 130: Folklore

    <h4>Chapter 130</h4>

    Zhao Yan: ...

    Wang Peng: ...

    "Mr. Lu, you really are..." Yu Yan narrowed his eyes andughed coldly, "Very confident."

    Just then, Ren Zongshun, who had just entered the conference room, suddenly pped his forehead loudly enough for everyone in the room to hear, "Oh no, I was so focused on looking at the roses Li Zhen''s suitor sent her that I forgot to bring the printed materials. I''ll have to go back and get them."

    Zhao Yan was stunned for a moment.

    Someone sent Li Zhen roses?

    Could it be another tactic by President Yu to woo his ex-wife?

    Zhao Yan wasn''t the only one thinking this, Wang Peng''s eyes lit up as he gossiped, "President Yu really knows what he''s doing. Sending roses is the right move, very romantic..."

    Before Wang Peng could finish speaking, both Yu Sheng and Lu Yanming frowned and uttered a cold "Tacky" in unison.

    Zhao Yan: ...

    Wang Peng: ...

    Zhao Yan and Wang Peng immediately realized the roses were not from Yu Sheng.

    The meeting began.

    Ren Zongshun snuck in from the back door carrying the materials, but saw Yu Sheng wave him over from not too far away.

    Ren Zongshun was puzzled.

    Creeping over, he sat down next to Yu Sheng.

    The manager of the advertising department was giving a presentation up front while everyone listened attentively.

    Yu Sheng''s voice was cold and indifferent. He lowered his voice and asked, "Manager Ren, what''s this about Li Zhen receiving roses?"

    Lu Yanming nced over at the two of them.

    "President Yu, Li Zhen didn''t ept them, someone just insisted on sending them." Ren Zongshun quickly exined in a hushed voice, telling him everything he knew, "The previous days it was just small bouquets, but today it was 199 roses, a huge bundle..."

    Yu Sheng narrowed his eyes, looking displeased.

    Ren Zongshun added, "But every time Li Zhen sees them, she immediately throws them in the trash."

    Yu Sheng''s expression improved a little.

    Today marked exactly one week since he had given Li Zhen the ultimatum.

    Today was supposed to be the day she moved back to Jinlu Garden.

    But over the past few days she hadn''t contacted him at all.

    "Xiaomeng, I''m heading out first, see you tomorrow!" Zhang Xiya blew a kiss.

    Li Zhen was packing up, getting ready to leave work, "Okay."

    But not even a few secondster, Zhang Xiya, who had already walked out of the office, came back in.

    She didn''t look happy. "Xiaomeng..."

    Li Zhen finished packing up and slung her bag over her shoulder, looking at her puzzled, "What''s up?"

    "Um... President Yu is waiting outside our department. It looks like he''s waiting for you..."

    Li Zhen: ...

    She nced towards the door and sure enough, Yu Sheng was there.

    He stood there, cold as ice, his dark eyes unreadable.

    The employees from the advertising department who walked past him wanted to gossip and watch him, but didn''t dare be caught looking by the man himself, so they could only sneak furtive nces before quickly looking away again.

    Zhang Xiya was anxious for Li Zhen. "With the mood President Yu seems to be in, he won''t leave until he sees you... You should wait until everyone else leaves before going over..."

    Otherwise they''d definitely be watched.

    Li Zhen sat back down in resignation. "Just keep an eye on us from the office. If you see Yu Sheng try to hit me,e over right away to back me up!"

    Zhang Xiya''s eyes went wide. She changed from calling him President Yu directly to Yu Sheng. "No way! Yu Sheng would hit you?"

    "What do you think?" Li Zhen held up two fingers miserably. "And it was twice!"

    "How could you not report that to the police? Keep him around to celebrate New Year''s?" Zhang Xiya was exasperated.

    Li Zhen leaned back lightly in her chair.

    She heaved a sigh.

    "Because I owe him."

    She owed him her life.

    When most people had left, Li Zhen finally exited the office. Zhang Xiya was still warming up in the office, stretching.

    Hearing the light footsteps, Yu Sheng turned around. "I thought you were going to stay in the office all night."

    "What do you want?"

    "Did you forget what I talked to you about a few days ago?"

    Li Zhen remembered.

    Yu Sheng telling her to move back to Jinlu Garden...

    "I''m taking you now to pack up your things, then we''re going home." Yu Sheng walked ahead, calling the elevator.

    But the person behind him didn''t move.

    Yu Sheng looked back, his icy eyes even colder. "Li Zhen, since when have you learned to be indifferent to my words?"

    Li Zhen nced at Zhang Xiya in the office, she was still practicing high kicks.

    If it came to blowster, then it would be 2 against 1.

    Nothing to fear!

    Li Zhen took a deep breath. "One shouldn''t act like this. Yu Sheng, you obviously understand what I mean, you just want to pressure me, don''t you?"

    Li Zhen didn''t quite believe Yu Sheng waspletely unable to listen to her words.

    "So what do you mean? That you''re noting home?" There was no warmth in Yu Sheng''s tone, heughed coldly.

    Once he removed her from the family registry, Li Zhen wouldn''t have to keep attending social functions under the title of the Yu family''s daughter-inw. Originally he didn''t want to keep vexing her, and thought that from then on she could just do as she pleased.

    But now it seemed her stubbornness was aimed entirely at him.

    Even when he lowered his head and asked her toe home, she was still being contrary.

    Yu Sheng was tired of arguing with her, his chest felt stifled and ufortable.

    He took out his phone and called Ren Zongshun. "Manager Ren, please arrange for a colleague to apany the marketing department to IF Mall''s celebration banquet tonight... Li Zhen will do..."

    Yu Sheng hung up and saw the shock on Li Zhen''s face that she couldn''t hide.

    When he spoke again, his tone was cold as ice.

    "You hate social functions the most, don''t you?"

    "Since you don''t want to go home, from now on you can attend all the functions with me."

    "Going home or attending functions, choose one of the two things you hate!"

    Li Zhen was so angry her whole body stiffened. "Yu Sheng! Don''t go too far!"

    "This is going too far? This is just the beginning."

    Yu Sheng nced at his watch, his expression cold. Then he turned and walked away.

    Li Zhen was stunned that Yu Sheng could be so shameless. Before she could react, she had already received a call from Ren Zongshun.

    Ren Zongshun sounded conflicted. "Li Zhen... the marketing department..."

    Li Zhen cut him off. "Manager Ren, I know what you''re talking about. I won''t go. You can dock my performance pay or fire me, but I''m not going."

    "You have to go, Li Zhen. If you don''t, I''ll have to find someone else." Ren Zongshun was very troubled. "I could hear President Yu''s tone just now wasn''t good. If I send someone else, they''ll surely get med by him, and that person will end up worse off... And you know, our advertising department relies a lot on the marketing department. Once President Yu steps down, Zhao Manager who works under him will likely take over. He''s President Yu''s man too. We can''t afford to offend President Yu..."

    Li Zhen''s eyelid was twitching even faster than before.

    She shook with anger.

    "Ugh..." The nervousness made Li Zhen dry heave.

    "What''s wrong, Li Zhen?" Ren Zongshun asked worriedly over the phone.

    Li Zhen suppressed the nausea and gave a self-mockingugh. "I''ll go, okay? I''ll go."

    Yu Sheng had ignored her for three years while painstakingly gaining power at Macrohai, and now was using it to pressure her?

    Howughable!

 Chapter 131: Are You Really Busy

    <h4>Chapter 131</h4>

    IF Shopping Mall had been open for just half a month, and its sales volume was already among the top three of Jin City¡¯srge shopping malls.

    The celebratory banquet invited all the merchants and partners who had moved into IF Shopping Mall.

    In the banquet hall were long Western-style dining tables decorated with white tablecloths. Under the extravagant crystal chandeliers, the exquisite tableware glimmered brightly.

    Around the tables, guests mingled in groups of two or three, cocktail sses in hand, chatting amiably with one another.

    This was heaven for businessmen and elites.

    But for Li Zhen, it was the prison she hated most.

    As Li Zhen entered the banquet hall, her eyes immediately fell on Yu Sheng, surrounded by a crowd of people. Impably dressed in a tailored suit, he had an aloof and outstanding presence.

    As a sessful elite in society, Yu Sheng was never short of sycophants around him.

    Zhao Yan stood by his side, apanying him.

    Sensing something, Yu Sheng nced in Li Zhen''s direction and beckoned to her coldly.

    Li Zhen frowned and walked over.

    Yu Sheng picked up a ss of wine from a passing waiter''s tray and held it out to her, his tone devoid of warmth. "You''rete."

    Zhao Yan was somewhat surprised. Yu Sheng had said he wouldn''t bring a date tonight.

    How did Li Zhen end uping after all?

    "It''s good enough that I came at all," Li Zhen didn''t take the wine. She asked the waiter next to her, "Which ss has in water?"

    For some reason today, her subconscious just didn''t want to drink alcohol.

    But Yu Sheng''s expression darkenedpletely, a cold glint in his eyes. "I asked you toe, not to stand around looking pretty."

    He put the wine ss in Li Zhen''s hand. The crimson liquid inside swayed slightly. "Today is a celebratory banquet. If you drink water, do you want to offend IF Shopping Mall?"

    As soon as Yu Sheng finished speaking, a female voice sounded beside them. "Mr. Yu."

    Yu Sheng inclined his head slightly. "Ms. Du."

    The neer was the boss of IF Shopping Mall, Du Baifeng. Her gaze candidly looked Li Zhen up and down twice.

    This was the woman who had injured a producerst time because of Yu Sheng. Why did shee again?

    Beside Du Baifeng was a bald man with a potbelly, who quickly raised his ss on seeing Yu Sheng and the two women. "Mr. Yu, long time no see..."

    "It has been a while," Yu Sheng lifted his ss.

    They all drank.

    Only Li Zhen stood at the back holding her wine ss, pretending to be invisible.

    Du Baifeng''s gaze flickered over her briefly. But she couldn''t gauge Yu Sheng''s attitude towards Li Zhen, so although unhappy, she didn''t say anything.

    The bald man, however, frowned. "Thisdy is..."

    Yu Sheng''s voice was indifferent. "A colleague from mypany''s advertising department, mypanion for tonight."

    The bald man suddenly understood.

    So she was brought along to liven up the atmosphere.

    Well, she was quite a looker.

    Women like her brought to such asions were for entertainment after the men were done with serious talk.

    The bald man immediately smiled ingratiatingly. "Miss, why aren''t you drinking? You''re not giving us face."

    "Sorry, I can''t hold my liquor," Li Zhen imperceptibly took another step back.

    "No problem, no need to worry if you can''t drink well. Mr. Yu brought you to build up your alcohol tolerance!"

    "I''m sorry, I..."

    Before Li Zhen could finish, the bald manughed and grabbed her hand, forcing her to down the wine in one gulp.

    He immediately refilled her ss.

    "Cough cough..." The mouthful came too fast, and Li Zhen choked badly.

    Zhao Yan looked at Yu Sheng anxiously.

    But Yu Sheng showed no reaction. Zhao Yan didn''t dare say more, and could only watch as the bald man forcibly poured Li Zhen several more drinks.

    After the bald man left, Li Zhen heavily put down the wine ss. "Yu Sheng, this isn''t how you pressure someone! Do you find it fun watching me being forced to drink?"

    Yu Sheng looked at her, his brows knitted with undisguised coldness. "Without my protection in the future, there are plenty of things even worse than this waiting for you."

    It was a reminder, almost a warning.

    The air fell silent for a moment.

    Zhao Yan averted her eyes, wishing she could vanish on the spot.

    Li Zhen only felt a stone weighing down her chest, making her want to curse.

    An hourter.

    Having been coerced into drinking too much, Li Zhen felt dizzy and unsteady on her feet. She gritted her teeth and headed for the bathroom.

    She had barely walked halfway when her arm was suddenly seized from behind by a hurried figure. "Where are you going?"

    Li Zhen looked back; Yu Sheng''s face was growing blurry before her eyes.

    She shook off Yu Sheng''s grip and leaned against the wall to steady herself. "Mr. Yu! Surely you can''t begrudge your subordinate taking a bathroom break...I feel sick..."

    Li Zhen''splexion was as flushed as if she had just been fished out of hot water.

    Her eyes blinked weakly.

    She was drunk.

    In such asions, a beautiful femalepanion of low status was the favorite ything of men to joke around with and force drinks on after serious talk.

    Today, Li Zhen didn''t know how many people hadughingly poured alcohol down her throat. She was already struggling to remain upright.

    Yu Sheng''s hand involuntarily clenched, but he still mercilesslymanded, "Come out immediately after throwing up."

    The dizziness made everything seem absurd to Li Zhen. "Yu Sheng, you''re not trying to pressure me, you''re trying to kill me!"

    "Can''t take it? Thene home with me." Yu Sheng stood ramrod straight like a cold, emotionless statue.

    Li Zhenughed. "I''d rather die!"

    Yu Sheng could no longer restrain his anger. He barked sharply, "Li Zhen, know your limits!"

    He had pressed her so hard today, yet she was still stubbornly refusing to return home!

    What on earth was she being so stubborn about!

    "What do you mean, know my limits?" Swaying drunkenly, Li Zhen spoke feebly, "I went past my limits toote! That time we went to Find, you didn''t touch me, and I knew something was bothering you."

    Yu Sheng''s body stiffened.

    Li Zhen went on, "I kept guessing - maybe it''s because I pursued you, so you never had much desire for me in bed. Or maybe it''s because those photos of me saving people were leaked, making you ufortable thinking I''m not pure."

    "At first I thought it was fine, we got married, as long as you wanted me once and we had a child it would be okay."

    "But we''ve been married a year, Yu Sheng. Were you really that busy?"

    "What man is so busy he doesn''t even have time to sleep with his new wife?"

    "I..." Yu Sheng''s sharp brows were knitted tight.

    Li Zhen drunkly looked at him.

    But Yu Sheng couldn''t get a single word out.

    Li Zhenughed again. "Later I thought again, it''s fine if we''re together but have no marital rtions or children. But..."

    Li Zhen paused, her voice lowering hoarsely, "But you forbid me from doing what I like, leave me at home waiting desperately for you every day, while you''re openly intimate with other women outside. Can you imagine how I feel being alone at home? I''m like a puppet, put away in the house for you to nce at asionally to relieve your boredom."

    "Yu Sheng, I should have known my limits long ago! I even feel I was toote."

    Each of Li Zhen''s words was like a needle stabbing Yu Sheng''s heart.

    Piercing, unbearable pain radiated through his heart.

 Chapter 132: First Choice

    <h4>Chapter 132</h4>

    Yu Sheng didn''t know.

    He didn''t know that Li Zhen would take these details so seriously.

    About sharing a room, he just wanted to wait a little longer.

    About work, he just wanted to prove himself to his mother with Li Zhen.

    How did everything be so different in her eyes...

    He clenched his fists tightly, the veins on the back of his hands bulging, "Li Zhen, it''s not what you think."

    "It doesn''t matter anymore." Li Zhen leaned against the wall and turned around, dizzy as she looked for the bathroom door.

    "What do you mean it doesn''t matter!" Yu Sheng''s pain and anger were ignited by her light words.

    He grabbed Li Zhen and pulled her back.

    The dizzying sensation made Li Zhen''s stomach churn.

    "Ugh..."

    With a dry heave, she quickly struggled free from Yu Sheng and rushed into the bathroom.

    Yu Sheng looked uncharacteristically flustered as he hurriedly followed her in, "What''s wrong with you!"

    Screams of women rang out in the bathroom.

    "Ah!"

    "A man!"

    "Pervert, get out!"

    Yu Sheng seemed oblivious.

    Li Zhen held onto the sink, "blegh" and threw up.

    What came out was all alcohol.

    She hadn''t eaten anything tonight, her stomach contained only liquor.

    Yu Sheng patted her back to soothe her, and took some paper to wipe the filth off her body and mouth.

    Li Zhen''s mind was hazy, she could no longerprehend where she was or what she was doing.

    With another "blegh", she threw up again.

    Yu Sheng pressed close to Li Zhen, getting soiled by the filth.

    But he paid it no mind, gently lifting Li Zhen into his arms, moving slowly so as not to startle her.

    Holding her steady, Yu Sheng strode out of the bathroom withrge steps,ying her down on a lounge in the hotel, "Wait for me, I''m going to get medicine for the alcohol."

    Li Zhen''s consciousness was blurred.

    But she could make out that it was Yu Sheng''s voice.

    Yu Sheng?

    Scumbag!

    He got her drunk.

    It hurt so much, her stomach felt like it was on fire.

    Mustering a shred of willpower, Li Zhen staggered out of the lounge.

    Her vision was a blurry mess, the gaudy lights around her warped and spun, the world rotating before her eyes.

    Until she felt the outdoor breeze, knowing she had left the hotel, she sat down at the side of the road.

    The pain in her stomach made her tremble.

    Li Zhen fumbled to take out her phone, needing several tries before finding it.

    She reflexively dialed a number, the other end picking up instantly, "Zhen Zhen."

    "Lu Yanming! Come get me! It hurts! I feel awful! Don''t want to stay here..." Li Zhen''s words were slurred and disjointed.

    She just knew that whenever she called Lu Yanming, he would instantly pick up.

    As long as she sought him out, he would immediately appear.

    This was already ingrained in her subconscious as the most reliable person to call for help.

    Hearing Li Zhen''s abnormal state, Lu Yanming''s voice deepened, tinged with lingering concern, "Where are you? Zhen Zhen."

    Where was she?

    She didn''t know.

    She couldn''t remember.

    Her mind was a mess.

    "I don''t know..." The more she tried to think, the more chaotic her mind became, and Li Zhen was on the verge of tears.

    "Alright, wait there for me."

    The voice over the phone maintained its usual gentleposure.

    Yu Sheng got medication from the hotel front desk and returned to the lounge, only to find the person gone.

    He nced coldly behind him, "Where did the woman who was just here go?"

    The server at the door instantly broke into a cold sweat under that icy gaze, "Thatdy left on her own."

    To avoid incurring this guest''s wrath, he added, "Thatdy seemed to have sobered up from the alcohol, she left by herself, didn''t ask anyone to help her..."

    Yu Sheng''s expression darkened, about to turn to look for her.

    But he was stopped by Du Baifeng who came over, "Mr. Yu, so you were here! Chairman Li from the business association is looking for you..."

    Yu Sheng paused.

    He had been preparing to start a newpany recently, the business association chairman was important.

    The server quickly said, "Sir, thatdy probably took a cab home already, she''s likely back by now."

    Yu Sheng pressed his lips in a thin line, and turned back into the banquet hall.

    In a private room of a hotel, Wang Peng sat in the main seat, with Lu Yanming by his side.

    The top management of Macro Group''s M Country headquarters hade to do a mid-year review, arriving in Jincheng today. Wang Peng had barely managed to get Lu Yanming toe keep himpany. With Lu Yanming here, there would definitely be no issues with headquarters'' mid-year review this year.

    Many of the attendees Wang Peng also recognized. The group chatted animatedly, putting Wang Peng in high spirits. As he raised his wine ss, it slipped and spilled onto Lu Yanming''s hand.

    Wang Peng hastily called out, "Whoops, Yanming...my clumsy hand..."

    "It''s nothing, Director Wang," Lu Yanming''s expression did not change.

    A server nearby immediately brought over a hot towel and handed it to Lu Yanming.

    He was wiping his hand.

    The phone on the table suddenly rang.

    He was cleaning his hand and unable to take the call, so he nced back at Fei Zhao.

    Understanding his meaning, Fei Zhao promptly came forward and put the call on speakerphone.

    Lu Yanming picked up the call, his voice gentle, "Zhen Zhen."

    Everyone looked on curiously at Lu Yanming. His expression had instantly changed the moment he took the call, no longer the crisp aloofness when chatting with them, but obvious warmth.

    Wang Peng was full of questions.

    Zhen Zhen?

    Lu Yanming would affectionately call someone by name like this?

    Almost immediately, ugly wailing cries came through from the other end, "Lu Yanming! Come get me! It hurts! I feel awful! Don''t want to stay here..."

    Those present all worked under Lu Yanming at M Country headquarters. They exchanged knowing looks with each other.

    A woman!

    And she called him by full name!

    Something was up.

    At M Country, even female mosquitoes couldn''t get near Lu Yanming, yet someone actually directly called him by first andst name!

    How bizarre!

    Wang Peng scratched his ear. This voice sounded a little familiar...

    Lu Yanming''s light colored eyes instantly darkened two shades. "Where are you, Zhen Zhen?"

    One second.

    Two seconds.

    Five seconds.

    Only low sobs could be heard indistinctly from the phone.

    Lu Yanming gave Fei Zhao a look.

    Fei Zhao nodded, immediately lowering his head to send out a message on his phone.

    Ten seconds.

    Twenty seconds.

    Still no response from the other end.

    Lu Yanming showed no reaction, disying absolute patience. No one dared make a sound.

    The private room was quiet as still water.

    Lu Yanming continued waiting patiently.

    He didn''t miss hearing a single faint sob from the phone.

    A full half a minute passed.

    The female voice from the phone whimpered, "I don''t know."

    Lu Yanming casually ced the hot towel he was using on the table.

    He stood up.

    His posture seemed especially tall and handsome under the room''s bright lights.

    With no change in expression, he lightly said, "Alright, wait there for me."

    His tone carried a pampering, soothing quality.

    Those present didn''t need more clues to understand what was going on, not after working together for so many years.

    The girl on the other end was still sobbing unhappily, urging impatiently, "Fine, hurry up then."

    Lu Yanming''s voice softened, "Okay, I''ll be quick."

    He nced at everyone, "My apologies, I have to go pick up my wife."

    With that one sentence, it was like a bomb dropped in the private room.

    But Lu Yanming acted as if nothing had happened, and strode towards the door.

    Fei Zhao followed right after.

    Wang Peng was stunned for two seconds before reacting, "What! Yanming, when did you get married!"

    Lu Yanming''s steps halted as he looked back and calmly replied, "The second day after I returned to the country."

    Wang Peng: ......

    Did he hear that right!

    The second day after returning home?

    On the phone, Li Zhen softly said, "Lu Yanming...you''re at a social asion right? You can choose not toe get me..."

    Amidst everyone''s shock at still not having recovered, Lu Yanming gently spoke.

    "Of course I''lle."

    "Mrs. Lu, you''re always my first choice..."

 Chapter 133: Not Zhen Zhen, Zhen Zhen

    <h4>Chapter 133</h4>

    On the phone, there were mixed footsteps and respectful shouts.

    "Miss Li..."

    "Miss Li, slow down..."

    Lu Yanming looked back at Fei Zhao.

    Fei Zhao quickly said: "Our people have found Miss Li."

    Fei Zhao took out his cell phone. On the phone, there was a live video from the other side.

    Lu Yanming and Fei Zhao left the private room.

    The people in the private room no longer had the heart to talk about Honghai''s doing good deeds. They were all gossiping about what was going on with Lu Yanming.

    Only one person was stunned like a statue: Wang Peng.

    Wang Peng murmured: "Miss Li?"

    "So it''s not Zhenzhen or Jingjing, it''s Zhenzhen?"

    "It''s Li Zhen???"

    "It''s Yu Sheng''s ex-wife Li Zhen!!!"

    Wang Peng''s expression was wooden, but his mind was spinning fast.

    Chairman Yu divorced on the day Lu Yanming returned.

    Lu Yanming got married the second day after returning to the country.

    So on the day he arrived, they were at odds at the wee banquet!

    So that time Li Zhen went into Yu Sheng''s office, and the two were like fire and water.

    So every time Li Zhen was injured and went to the hospital, was falsely used of stealing a bracelet at the IF Mall, Jiang Keyan asked her to provide a letter of understanding at the meeting...

    And today Yu Sheng forced her to apany him for dinner...

    Every time she had something happen, Lu Yanming was there.

    I see...

    So that''s how it is!

    Does Yu Sheng know?

    He probably doesn''t know, otherwise he wouldn''t act like that.

    But...

    What if Yu Sheng finds out...

    Honghai Corporation won''t explode, right!

    Honghai didn''t explode yet, but Wang Peng felt like his head was about to explode!

    He just wanted to coast to retirement, is that so hard!

    It''s over!

    I knew it! Office romances should be prohibited!

    -

    Huayang Famous Residence.

    "How is it?" Fei Zhao asked anxiously.

    The dozens of experts from various departments waiting at Huayang Famous Residence, Li Zhen fainted as soon as she was brought back.

    As a result, these experts had been waving various devices around for ten minutes now, and no one was saying anything.

    Lu Yanming stood to the side, his brows furrowed and eyes cold.

    When he returned to Huayang Famous Residence, Li Zhen had already been sent back first. At that time, she was already a little incoherent, mumbling something in her mouth that he couldn''t make out at all.

    Then she faintedpletely.

    The doctors had been there for more than ten minutes already, but she still hadn''t woken up.

    When Lu Yanming didn''t speak, his whole body exuded an innate oppressive aura.

    The room was almost freezing over.

    A doctor stepped forward and said to Fei Zhao, "Uh, Chairman Fei, ording to our initial tests, she only drank too much and fell asleep.

    Fei Zhao breathed a sigh of relief.

    Doctor: "But there is one thing..."

    Fei Zhao''s breath hitched up again, "What is it..."

    "We just did a test, there''s something we''re not too sure about. We''ve already asked the hospital to bring over the relevant equipment for a final test to confirm."

    The doctor spoke very cautiously.

    Beforeing, the president had repeatedly told them to be careful and cautious, and to listen to everything.

    Behind Lu Yanming''s golden sses, his eyes were icy cold. "Say it now."

    The doctor swallowed, "Thisdy, maybe...probably...possibly..."

    "Just say it! Possibly what?" Fei Zhao was about to explode.

    "She might be..." the doctor said softly, "pregnant."

    The room suddenly fell silent.

    No one knew how many seconds or tens of seconds had passed.

    Fei Zhao turned and looked at Lu Yanming like a robot.

    Lu Yanming slowly opened his mouth, and his voice slightly trembled in a way he didn''t even notice himself, "You...what did you say?"

    The doctor, afraid of misjudging, quickly supplemented, "This is just our preliminary judgment that thisdy may be pregnant. The blood test machine and ultrasound are on the way, we can confirm after testing."

    Lu Yanming''s ears buzzed loudly.

    For a moment, it felt like the blood in his body was flowing in reverse.

    His brain stopped supplying oxygen, even the simplest thoughts became difficult.

    He couldn''t hear anything else, only the word "pregnant".

    He walked step by step to the bedside and sat down, his slender fingers gently caressing Li Zhen''s hair, and then his gaze shifted inch by inch to her abdomen.

    Li Zhen was covered with a thin nket.

    Under the thin nket, her t belly rose and fell slightly with her breathing.

    Was his child in there?

    Was he going to be a dad?

    Was his flesh and blood in Li Zhen''s body?

    This brief shocking possibility made Lu Yanming''s breathing rhythm mess up.

    He would have a child with Li Zhen.

    The child was in Li Zhen''s belly.

    Lu Yanming raised his hand, just about to touch Li Zhen''s stomach, but didn''t dare go further, suspended in midair.

    He turned and asked the doctor, his tone low and hoarse, "Can I touch?"

    Doctor: ...

    This question was a bit too childish.

    "You can, even if she''s really pregnant, gently touching is okay." The doctor respectfully said.

    Fei Zhao had already jumped in excitedly on the side. He was so excited!

    But afraid of waking Li Zhen up, he still suppressed his voice and excitedly shouted in a low voice, "Ahhhhhhhh! The Lu family''s little grandson ising! My god!"

    Fei Zhao excitedly stomped his feet!

    This trip was sooooo worth it for him!

    When he gets back, the old madam will happily find a daughter-inw for him too!

    This merit! When he''s old he can walk around the Lu family however he wants!

    The doctors looked at each other...

    These two people''s reactions were too scary.

    If the final check turns out she''s not pregnant, these two would be happy for nothing. Would they make it out alive?

    It wasn''t until the blood test results and ultrasound results came out.

    The doctors finally breathed a sigh of relief.

    Thank goodness!

    She really is pregnant!

 Chapter 134: No Appetite

    <h4>Chapter 134</h4>

    "Mr. Lu, Mr. Fei, thisdy has been pregnant for about twenty days. She is still in the early stages of pregnancy and needs to rest more and replenish nutrition," said the doctor, holding the examination report in slightly trembling hands.

    It took Lu Yanming a long time to hear his own voice. "Will she feel unwell during the pregnancy?"

    Uh... This question was rarely asked by a man.

    The doctor considered for a moment and said, "It depends on the individual constitution, but some adverse reactions are normal during pregnancy."

    Lu Yanming nodded and asked again in a light voice, "She drank alcohol tonight..."

    The doctor quickly reassured, "Although alcohol should be avoided during pregnancy, we did an examination and the fetus looks very stable and healthy. Thedy is also in great health."

    It waste into the night before the doctors finally left one by one.

    Lu Yanming sat in the chair by the bed, staring fixedly at the person on the bed without blinking an eye.

    "Young master, let me keep watch here. You go and rest for a while," Fei Zhao said worriedly.

    Lu Yanming''s tall figure sat upright. His temperament was noble and extraordinary, but at this moment he exuded a touch of bing a father. "I''ll keep watch."

    These were his wife and child. Of course he would be the one to keep watch.

    -

    The daylight felt like a soft lump of cloud pressing down on Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen woke up slowly.

    The next second, she let out a low cry of rm.

    "Mr. Lu!"

    Lu Yanming sat at the side of her bed with an expression that was...hard to describe.

    Benevolent?

    Caring?

    All-embracing?

    Anyway, at first nce, Lu Yanming looked like he had "I have so much love in my heart" engraved on his forehead.

    "Zhen Zhen, good morning," said Lu Yanming. He stood up. His perfect features were noble and extraordinary, and his tone was light. "Get up, it''s time for breakfast."

    His voice... Li Zhen wasn''t sure if she was being overly sensitive, but she felt Lu Yanming''s voice today sounded particrly happy.

    "Mr. Lu, did you... did you win the lottery yesterday?" Li Zhen tentatively asked.

    Lu Yanming''s eyes smiled lightly. He looked down at her andughed. "More or less."

    "How much did you win?"

    "Priceless."

    Li Zhen rolled her eyes slightly, knowing Lu Yanming was teasing her.

    She sat up and nced at the chair by the bed, recalling how he had kept watch beside her when she woke up. "Mr. Lu, thank you foring to get mest night. You didn''t stay up all night watching over me, did you?"

    Li Zhen felt a little guilty.

    Lu Yanming nodded slightly. "Yes, I did."

    Li Zhen: ...

    She thought he would modestly deny it.

    After getting dressed, Li Zhen went into the bathroom to wash up. When she came out and looked around, she suddenly felt something was wrong.

    Why did every corner of the house have padding added?

    The bedside did, the edges of the cabs did, even the tablemps!

    All the way downstairs, even the protruding edges of the stairs had padding.

    "Mr. Lu, are my eyes blurry? Has our house been rid of any angle less than 90 degrees? What''s going on?" Li Zhen asked in bewilderment.

    "I hurt my back at home yesterday, so I modified the house a bit," said Lu Yanming, walking beside her. His side gaze was on her and his tone was light. "Does your head still hurt?"

    Li Zhen didn''t doubt him. She thought about it and said, "No, it doesn''t hurt."

    She had vomited twice at the hotelst night, so all the alcohol should be out of her system.

    When she woke up today she felt fine, just a little tired.

    Sitting down at the dining table, breakfast was alreadyid out.

    Li Zhen nced at it and her eyebrows wrinkled slightly.

    Lu Yanming''s eyebrow arched slightly. "No appetite?"

    Li Zhen nodded. "My stomach feels ufortable. I don''t really want to eat anything."

    Right after Li Zhen finished speaking, a deep voice suddenly sounded behind her.

    "Mrs. Lu..."

    "Oh my god!" Li Zhen cried in rm as she turned around.

    Why were there other people in the house!

    Her soul was frightened away!

    "Mrs. Lu, 67 breakfasts have been prepared today, each with a different taste. Please wait, they will be ready in session," said a burly man wearing a chef''s hat, walking towards her.

    He was also holding a tray.

    With several more breakfast items on it.

    He ced it on the dining table.

    "Mr. Lu... what is this..." Li Zhen''s eyes were wider than the tray.

    Seeing her expression, Lu Yanmingughed lightly. "What a coincidence, Zhen Zhen. My appetite hasn''t been good recently either, so I had more breakfast options made, hoping there would be one or two that I like."

    Li Zhen looked towards the kitchen and only then realized there were several more people quietly and skillfully preparing breakfast inside.

    Li Zhen was stunned.

    Was Lu Yanming really so fussy? Requiring such extravagance just because he had no appetite?

    On further thought, it seemed he had always been quite delicate, like a young master who couldn''t endure hardship, spending moneyvishly.

    For example, when he wanted to change cars he would directly change cars, or when he hired Fei Zhao as a highly-paid assistant.

    And then there were his clothes, watches, essories... Even a small cufflink was made of pure gold and diamonds.

    Li Zhen came to a conclusion that made her sympathize with Lu Yanming: with his spending power, he must have no savings at all. He enjoyed too much.

    But there were advantages to enjoyment...

    Like right now, with so many breakfast options, no appetite was impossible!

    Li Zhen happily ate her breakfast, but received an unpleasant message.

    Li Yinnan: [Come home for dinner tonight. It''s your sister''s birthday today.]

    Sister? Li Zhenughed coldly in her heart.

    Calling Li Yanran her sister with their rtionship was ironic.

    However, since that time Li Zhen had declined a few consecutive invitations to the Li house, it seemed Li Yinnan was also afraid of bothering Yu Sheng too much and didn''t dare call him too often.

    After eating breakfast to her satisfaction, Li Zhen tidied up and prepared to go to work.

    Huayang Famous Residence was originally close to thepany, so Li Zhen always walked there.

    Even for this short distance, Fei Zhao still came to pick up Lu Yanming every day, as if he wore ss shoes and couldn''t walk.

    Li Zhen opened the door, about to leave, but was called to a stop by Lu Yanming.

    "Zhen Zhen, let me drive you to work."

    Li Zhen tly refused, "I don''t want a ride. What if we''re seen..."

    "Then I''ll walk with you."

    Li Zhen: ...

    How was that any different from telling everyone at Honghai Corporation they lived together at night?

    -

    Li Zhen got into the car with Lu Yanming.

    Fei Zhao was already waiting. As soon as he saw Li Zhen, he immediately grinned broadly and said loudly, "Good morning, Miss Li!"

    His voice was so sonorous, his smile so dazzling!

    Li Zhen felt his expression was like a soldier seeing a first ss medal of honor!

    What was up with these two today!

    "Good morning, Assistant Fei," Li Zhen replied before looking towards the car. Her gaze paused briefly.

    Had Lu Yanming changed cars again?

    Li Zhen didn''t recognize many car models, but she knew this one.

    The Elfa nanny van, often used by celebrities.

    The inside space wasrge, like a movable small room.

    It was very convenient andfortable for doing makeup, resting, and dining inside.

    Noticing Li Zhen''s gaze, Fei Zhao quickly exined, "Miss Li, the young master has already ordered a nanny van, but it probably won''t be ready for another three months. We''re just using this van for now."

 Chapter 135: Up in the Air, Giddy

    <h4>Chapter 135</h4>

    Lu Yanming opened the back door and said, "Hop in, Zhen Zhen, we''re going to bete."

    Li Zhen got into the car full of doubts, it wasn''t Lu Yanming''s first time changing cars.

    Li Zhen didn''t feel surprised, just...

    "Mr. Lu, you''re the deputy general manager of a group, is it appropriate for you to drive such a casual family car everyday?"

    Before Lu Yanming could speak, Fei Zhao smiled and said, "What''s inappropriate about it? My young master doesn''t need to prove himself with just one car."

    That''s true.

    Li Zhen was convinced.

    Fei Zhao drove extra steady today.

    Usually he drove pressing the speed limit, but today he went nice and slow without any hurry.

    In the back seat, Lu Yanming casually poured a ss of water and casually handed it to Li Zhen, "Zhen Zhen, want some water?"

    The doctor said drinking more hot water would be good for her.

    Li Zhen wasn''t really thirsty, but since Lu Yanming poured it for her, she epted it.

    Lu Yanming looked out the window, as if casually asking, "Zhen Zhen, what do you think... if we had a child..."

    "Pfft..."

    Li Zhen spit out the water.

    Lu Yanming''s eyebrows slightly furrowed, unhurriedly handing her a tissue to wipe herself.

    "It''s okay, it''s okay." Li Zhen waved her hand, having calmed down, "Mr. Lu, this joke isn''t funny at all. How could we possibly have a child when we''ve taken proper protective measures?"

    As Li Zhen spoke, her head involuntarily lowered in guilt.

    What did he mean by asking this?

    Could he have discovered that she had poked holes in the condom?

    "I mean if, if you got pregnant..." Lu Yanming''s voice lowered.

    "There''s no if, it won''t happen, it can''t happen, we''ve been so careful there''s no way." Li Zhen awkwardlyughed it off to brush him off.

    Lu Yanming fell silent.

    He looked back out the window, the morning sunlight shining through the sparse leaves on the roadside, falling on him.

    Fei Zhao sighed inwardly.

    No wonder the young master didn''t dare tell her, what if she didn''t want it...

    After a minute, Lu Yanming sighed to himself, then turned to look at Li Zhen again, "Zhen Zhen..."

    "Hmm?" Li Zhen responded, turning to look at him.

    "If a childes between us, I would cherish him or her like a treasure, I would bring all the best things in the world before our child." Lu Yanming''s eyes behind the sses gazed at her steadily.

    Li Zhen''s heart suddenly started pounding irregrly, the thumping audible in her chest cavity.

    She didn''t dare meet those overly earnest eyes.

    She shifted her gaze in panic.

    Lu Yanming also didn''t say anything more, and the car went quiet for a time.

    Li Zhen drank water to conceal her irregr heartbeat, looking out the window, but she kept feeling like Lu Yanming''s serious expression just now was imprinted on it.

    She had imagined before what a perfect father should be like.

    It seemed that it should be just like Lu Yanming''s appearance just now.

    -

    They arrived at Honghai Corporation, Li Zhen got out of the car first.

    As she got out, she couldn''t help but nce back into the car.

    Her gaze collided with Lu Yanming''s, and she hastily retracted it again.

    She hadn''t gotten to the office yet when she first received a message from Zhang Xiya.

    Zhang Xiya: [Little Zhen Zhen! My god! Hurry to the office!]

    Li Zhen: [On my way.]

    What was going on that had Zhang Xiya so excited?

    Li Zhen got out of the elevator, still at the door, when she heard shocked cheers from the office.

    She stepped inside and froze for a second.

    The original wooden office desks and chairs had all been reced with solid wood desks and leather chairs.

    The edges and corners of the desks were all finely polished and rounded.

    At first nce, it didn''t look like an office, more like a high-end club.

    The office was lively with excitement.

    "Wow, did thepany strike it rich?"

    "These sofa chairs are nicer than the ones my mom bought for my wedding suite."

    "Simply amazing!"

    "This is way too, too, toofortable! I absolutely love it!"

    Thepany had announced that, as the advertising department''s business performance was outstanding that quarter, and the work attitudemendable, thepany was recing the office desks and chairs as a reward.

    This news spread swiftly through thepany, shocking everyone upstairs and downstairs.

    Just when people thought thepany was already extravagant enough, at noon they realized that the extravagance had no upper limit.

    At the serving windows in the employee cafeteria, people stared at the food inside, eyes wide.

    Was this a work meal?

    This was more like an extravagant feast for tycoons!

    Inside the serving windows was matsutake mushroom soup, fish roe sauce, foie gras, Japanese Kobe beef, bluefin tuna...

    How could the employees restrain themselves?

    They swiftly uploaded photos and videos to their Moments, Weibo, TikTok!

    Within just half an hour, it rapidly shot up to trending!

    Bigpany employee meals #explode

    In thements under the trending topic, employees from otherpanies on Tianfu Second Street made up half.

    [Back then I joined thepany next door, now I regret it with envious tears, those were the tears my brain shed.]

    [It''s Honghai again! Ahhhhhh! Can it go bankrupt already! It''s driving me insane with jealousy!]

    [This is a work meal? Is Honghai still hiring janitors? Not for the work meals, I just genuinely love mopping!]

    [Does thispany do criminal things prohibited byw? So extra!]

    [Looking at mypany''s bok choy and twice cooked pork, I''m deep in thought...]

    [There''s Iberian ham in the pics too???]

    [Fun fact! I work at apany that sells the Yitian blush rice, made exclusively for wealthy households, at a price ordinary people can''t even imagine...but early this morning, Honghai bought several tons from ourpany...]

    Zhang Xiya stood stunned in front of the serving windows, "Are my eyes deceiving me?"

    Meanwhile, Meng Yuanjie excitedly yelled with his tray, "Auntie! I want this! And this! And this!"

    Li Zhen and Qiao Yi exchanged a look, then simultaneously rubbed their eyes.

    Li Zhen, who had said her appetite was poor on the way here, fell silent...

    The four got their meals and sat down, each person''s te piled high and overflowing.

    As soon as they sat, Zhang Xiya put her palms together in prayer, "I''m willing to trade 0.0001 years of my lifespan for thepany''s enduring prosperity!"

    Meng Yuanjie marveled, "I feel like all the employees'' loyalty to thepany has been maxed out this year."

    Returning to the office, Zhang Xiya and the others blissfully took their lunch break naps.

    Before falling asleep, they sincerely wrote 1000-word essays in their hearts, wishing thepany greater sess, begging it not to copse.

    But Li Zhen had trouble falling asleep, still worried about Yu Sheng saying he would make her apany him to social functions every night from now on. Yet her body felt inexplicably tired for no reason, the fatigue leaving her drifting between lucidity and light sleep.

    Speak of the devil.

    Right after their break ended, Ren Zongshun called her to his office.

    Ren Zongshun had ced a stack of money on his desk and slid it towards Li Zhen.

    "Li Zhen, this was delivered early this morning by the marketing department, it''s payment for your hard workst night." As Ren Zongshun spoke, his tone became unnatural. He nced up slightly to gauge Li Zhen''s reaction, "Mr. Yu just called, there''s another dinner party tonight, and wants you to attend as well."

    Even though she had expected it already, Li Zhen''s irritation that had prevented her from napping at noon peaked.

    "Fine!"

    Li Zhen gritted out, taking the money and mming the door on her way out.

    Ren Zongshun was stunned for a moment.

    This...she epted so readily?

    Everyone was justing out of their work station dazes when they saw Li Zhen stomp out of the manager''s office in a huff.

    They looked at each other in bewilderment.

    Li Zhen was grinding her mrs to dust.

    ept it?

    How could she possibly ept it!

    She had felt like her life was half drained just fromst night, was she supposed to let Yu Sheng keep controlling her like this?

    Li Zhen went to the marketing department floor and barged right in.

    Seeing her arrive, Zhao Yan immediately stood with a smile to greet, "Li Zhen, looking for Mr. Yu..."

    Before he could finish speaking, Li Zhen had already strode past him in a gust of wind, straight into Yu Sheng''s office.

 Chapter 136: Donâ€™t be Okay

    <h4>Chapter 136</h4>

    Yu Sheng looked up and nced at the personing in.

    He put down the pen in his hand, rxed back slightly, knowing she hade for something. He didn''t say anything, his narrow, cold eyes just silently watching her.

    Li Zhen pped the stack of money down in front of him with a "pa!" "I wasn''t willing yesterday. You coerced me, so I don''t want payment! I won''t go again in the future either!"

    "You''re not going?" Yu Sheng''s sharp brows raised slightly. "That''s fine."

    He hit the inte.

    It was Zhao Yan on the other end.

    "Manager Zhao, get someone else from the advertising department tomorrow night. Get Qiao Yi to go..."

    "Pa!" Li Zhen hurriedly cut off the handset Yu Sheng was holding.

    Li Zhen''s whole body trembled with anger. "You''re using my friend to threaten me?"

    Yu Sheng neither confirmed nor denied it. "The operatingws of this society are just that cruel. Threatening may not sound good, but it works."

    Outside the office, the employees of the marketing department had all craned their necks to look into Yu Sheng''s office. The fully transparent office had no curtains drawn. They couldn''t hear any sounds but had an unobstructed view of the scene inside.

    Everyone saw Li Zhen throw the money down in front of Yu Sheng, both of their expressions extremely cold.

    The ex-husband and wife were fighting!

    This was a rare scene in a century at Macro Sea, which prohibited office rtionships!

    Someone in the Macho Banquet WeChat group quickly sent a message.

    ¡¾Dear family members! Li Zhen and Director Yu are fighting in his office!¡¿

    In less than a few seconds, there were already dozens of replies.

    ¡¾What! Someone dares argue with Director Yu! Li Zhen is so fierce!¡¿

    ¡¾Which good sister can take a video for me to see what the living King Yama Yu looks like when he''s arguing!¡¿

    ¡¾Living long and seeing much. Someone dares argue with Director Yu? Just one look from him scares people to death!¡¿

    Everyone was still gossiping excitedly in the group.

    Li Zhen stood in the office, staring at Yu Sheng''s expression like he had her cornered.

    She gritted her teeth, her face even paler. "Yu Sheng, you have to push it this far, don''t you?"

    "Anything other thaning home with me, don''t even talk about it." Yu Sheng''s tone grew even colder.

    "Fine. If you want to make things hard for me, then no one gets to have it easy!" Li Zhen steadied her emotions, but her clear eyes held anger.

    Yu Sheng narrowed his dark eyes, watching coldly as she unlocked her phone.

    Li Zhen dialed thepany''s whistleblowerint number.

    -

    In the HR department, Xu Yu was fully focused on eating melon, staring at everyone wildly guessing in the group chat about what Li Zhen''s next move against Yu Sheng would be.

    Just then, Macro Sea''s dedicated whistleblower phone rang abruptly.

    Xu Yu was startled for a moment.

    Macro Sea''s whistleblower phone hadn''t rang in thest two months. Thepany had cancelled overtime and improved employee meals, the employees were just short of writing thank you letters. How could someone still want to blow the whistle?

    She picked up the phone and was stunned.

    Li Zhen''s voice came through from the other end. "I''m Li Zhen from the advertising department. I''m whistleblowing Marketing Director Yu Sheng for abusing his position to coerce employees from other departments to work for the marketing department."

    As soon as Xu Yu heard this, wow!

    She had gone from eating melon to being on the front lines!

    She was shocked internally, but Xu Yu maintained a professional tone, extremely calm. "Alright, Li Zhen. I''m HR Director Xu Yu. I''ll report the situation you''ve reflected to thepany immediately and a task force will be formed. Please be patient and wait."

    Li Zhen''s voice was steady. "Director Xu, I''m patient. But the matter is urgent. I''m in Director Yu''s office now, waiting for thepany to resolve this!"

    "Alright, we''ll be there as soon as possible."

    Xu Yu hung up the phone, her expression instantly excited.

    Li Zhen did well!

    No matter if it was her ex-husband or a director, she still stood up to them fiercely!

    Xu Yu still didn''t know the specifics, but just based on Li Zhen not taking it lying down, she supported her!

    Macro Sea had always taken employee whistleblowing seriously.

    Xu Yu didn''t drag her feet at all, immediately heading to Wang Peng''s office. But when she arrived at Wang Peng''s office, she was told Wang Peng was with Lu Yanming.

    -

    In just ten minutes, the Macho Banquet group released new breaking news.

    ¡¾Extra! Extra!¡¿

    ¡¾Li Zhen and Director Yu have been summoned away by HR!¡¿

    Someone immediately followed up with another message.

    ¡¾I''m from HR. Our director just rushed out urgently, I strongly suspect Li Zhen called the whistleblower line.¡¿

    ¡¾News from the frontlines of the general manager''s office! It was Li Zhen who reported Director Yu! I just finished tidying up the conference room and the leaders all went in!¡¿

    ¡¾Ahhhhhhh! Thrilling! Haven''t had this kind of big movement in a long time!¡¿

    The entire Macro Sea melon patch was abuzz with noise, exceptionally lively.

    But at this time, the conference room was so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

    Wang Peng sat right in the middle, shivering all over.

    Li Zhen had already exined things very clearly. She was unwilling to apany the marketing department for socializing but was coerced by Yu Sheng. This matter was indeed wrong of Yu Sheng, but did it warrant whistleblowing Yu Sheng to thepany level?

    Yu Sheng was leaving soon anyway. Wang Peng really didn''t want to give him any disciplinary action over these trivial matters!

    But...

    Wang Peng looked to Lu Yanming at the side.

    Lu Yanming sat to the side, casually fiddling with a pen in his hand.

    The grey suit was neatly and appropriately tailored to his body, crisp and well-fitted, his handsome face maintaining a light expression, not saying anything, but exuding an undeniable oppressive aura.

    Wang Peng looked at Yu Sheng again.

    Yu Sheng had an arrogant expression, a slight coldness in his gaze as he looked at Li Zhen.

    He could suddenly understand both of their expressions now!

    Neither person had innocent eyes!

    How did he not notice before? It was so obvious.

    Everyone in the conference room looked to Wang Peng.

    Li Zhen spoke up as a reminder. "Director Wang, so what do you think should be done about this matter?"

    "This..." Wang Peng coughed.

    Yu Sheng looked up. "Li Zhen, as a member of Macro Sea, shouldn''t you share thepany''s concerns? Sharing thepany''s concerns is what you should be doing."

    "But each department has its own responsibilities. Apanying your marketing department for socializing isn''t my job." Li Zhen looked at Yu Sheng coldly.

    Wang Peng felt a big headacheing on. He turned to look at Lu Yanming, lowering his voice. "Yanming, what do you think we should do?"

    Lu Yanming''s gaze lightly swept past the two people.

    So yesterday, it was Yu Sheng who made Li Zhen apany them for socializing, and made her drink so much.

    He didn''t say anything, his expression was cold and detached. "Naturally, go by the rules and regtions."

    "Going by the rules and regtions, huh..." Wang Peng hesitated, and softened his tone, half pleading for leniency. "But, after all, it''s Director Yu. He''s contributed a lot to thepany!"

    Wang Peng still kept his voice lowered, not wanting others to hear his words. But his every move was being watched by everyone, so of course they realized he was taking Yu Sheng''s side and didn''t want Yu Sheng to be embarrassed.

    So everyone else didn''t dare to speak up, only keeping their heads lowered and pretending they didn''t exist.

    Li Zhen sneered internally. "Director Wang, thepany wouldn''t want to shield Director Yu, right?"

    Wang Peng once again used coughing to ease his awkwardness. "Uh, Li Zhen, go wait in the outer conference room first. We''ll discuss this."

    Li Zhen got up. Her slender body had an unbreakable resilience. "Alright, Director Wang. I believe thepany won''t let the lower-level employees be disheartened."

    Before leaving, Li Zhen didn''t forget to give Wang Peng a high hat to wear.

    Wang Peng felt his back turn cold. Reaching back to touch his neck, it was all cold sweat.

    Li Zhen left for the outer conference room and the door was closed.

 Chapter 137: From the beginning to the End

    <h4>Chapter 137</h4>

    As soon as Li Zhen left, Wang Peng became even more silent. What should they do about this matter!

    Everyone remained quiet. No matter how Li Zhen pleaded, there was no way President Wang would actually do anything to Director Yu.

    It was like an egg hitting a rock. Useless.

    But the next second, Lu Yanming''s voice reached everyone''s ears.

    His gaze casually nced over Yu Sheng as he spoke in his pleasant voice, unhurriedly, "Don''t worry. President Wang would never cover for anyone. Director Yu abused his power. ording to the rules and regtions, that''s how it should be handled."

    Wang Peng abruptly turned his head to look at him.

    Lu Yanming had begun! The current husband was showing bias!

    Wang Peng pretended he hadn''t heard anything. He kept his head lowered, staring at his phone screen which didn''t have any content. His fingers continuously scrolled aimlessly.

    Everyone understood as soon as they heard this. Wow, was President Lu challenging Director Yu?

    Yu Sheng, dressed in a ck shirt, narrowed his eyes. His entire body exuded a cold aura. "President Wang hasn''t said anything yet President Lu seems to have a lot of opinions?"

    Lu Yanming nced at Yu Sheng imperceptibly. "Opinions? Not urate. To be precise, they are suggestions."

    The atmosphere instantly froze.

    The two bosses seemed to be on the verge of a showdown?

    Wang Peng lowered his head even more, looking exceptionally weak, helpless and pitiful.

    "Suggestions? Then President Lu, tell us, what suggestions do you have?" Yu Sheng looked up, his gaze slightly cold.

    "Firstly, Director Yu abused his position for personal reasons. That is a major workce taboo. Secondly, since Director Yu is already divorced..." Lu Yanming''s tone waszy but concise, "He shouldn''t continue entangling his ex-wife."

    Lu Yanming deliberately dragged out the word "entangling".

    Yu Sheng''s gaze sharpened. "President Lu, are you really concerned about today''s business matter or my personal affairs!"

    Lu Yanmingughed lightly. His tone was slow and methodical but his aura was steady and overpowering. "It was Director Yu who mixed professional and personal matters first. So I''m concerned about both."

    The atmosphere instantly became tense.

    Everyone straightened their backs.

    Wang Peng rubbed his nose then rubbed his eyes.

    This was too difficult!

    He was about to retire yet encountered such a troublesome issue!

    This water-pourer could no longer maintain stability.

    Lu Yanming''s long fingers still toyed with the pen in his hand. His tone was indifferent. "Director Yu abused his power and mixed professional and personal matters. This is a serious vition of the group''s management rules. The group should issue a notice criticizing and fining him 2000 yuan. If there is a next time..."

    He paused briefly. "Please resign voluntarily immediately Director Yu, no need to wait for the handover."

    With each sentence Lu Yanming spoke, everyone gasped.

    President Lu was serious!

    Yu Sheng''s eyes grew colder. "President Lu, do you really think thepany is under your dictatorship! Does your proposed punishment stand?"

    Yu Sheng didn''t care when he left thepany anyway.

    But he couldn''t leave now. He had to stay until Li Zhen returned home.

    He could not ept Lu Yanming''s final point.

    "I''m the group''s vice president, also directly in charge of your marketing department. I have the right to propose punishments. I''m merely making a suggestion." Lu Yanming''s light colored eyes swept the room through his cool wire-rimmed sses. "So now, let''s take a vote among the investigation team."

    The investigation team formed today after Li Zhen''s report consisted of the department heads.

    Lu Yanming stood up. His tranquil expression diluted his gentle temperament. His aura became nobly unapproachable. "Those who disagree with my proposal, please raise your hand."

    Everyone kept their heads lowered, secretly sizing each other up.

    Offending either boss was uneptable.

    If they raised their hands in agreement, they would still hesitate for a while.

    But disagreeing meant they just had to... not move.

    Tacit agreement made things much easier.

    Wang Peng continued fiddling around, deliberately pretending he didn''t hear anything.

    Not a single person raised their hand.

    "Passed unanimously. Dismissed." Lu Yanming threw the pen he was toying with lightly yet firmly onto the table. His side nce swept Yu Sheng. "Director Yu, keep your distance from Li Zhen starting today."

    After speaking, he turned and stepped out.

    In the corner, Xu Yu wed her hands excitedly.

    Ahhh!

    So cool!

    President Lu''s boyfriend qualities exploded today!

    Such overt protection and favoritism was too shippable!

    She was right to ship this CP!

    There was little sugar but it was so sweet!

    Lu Yanming hooked his tie with two fingers and loosened it slightly. As soon as he stepped out of the meeting room, he saw Li Zhen already fast asleep on the sofa.

    She was lying therezily and casually.

    The overpowering aura Lu Yanming had in the meeting room instantly vanished without a trace. His gaze inadvertently fell on her t belly.

    It rose and fell slightly.

    Inside was his child.

    Lu Yanming still felt a sense of unreality.

    Suddenly he had flesh and blood. His flesh and blood was in Li Zhen''s womb, absorbing nutrients, slowly growing.

    In ten months, it would open its eyes and curiously look at this world.

    Lu Yanming took a deep breath. He walked over and softly called out tenderly and dotingly, "Zhen Zhen."

    Li Zhen blearily opened her eyes. "President Lu?"

    She didn''t know why but recently she felt especially tired.

    Just sitting on the sofa, she had fallen asleep instantly.

    Lu Yanming''s gaze inadvertently swept her belly again, just a quick nce before looking at Li Zhen. "Are you sleepy? Go rest in my office."

    Li Zhen stretchedzily. "No need. I''m awake now..."

    After speaking, Li Zhen recalled what happened inside. "President Lu, what was thepany''s decision?"

    Lu Yanming sinctly said, "If Director Yu has a next time, he''ll be forced to resign immediately."

    Li Zhen''s eyes instantly lit up. "That''s great!"

    She was extremely happy. She had wanted to say more to Lu Yanming but saw everyoneing out of the meeting room.

    Yu Sheng''s face was dark. Wang Peng walked beside him, speaking to him softly.

    When Yu Sheng looked up, his gaze collided with Li Zhen''s. Beside her was Lu Yanming. They were chatting, looking intimate.

    Li Zhen swiftly averted her eyes. "President Lu, I''ll head downstairs first."

    Lu Yanming nodded slightly.

    After Li Zhen left, Yu Sheng was already beside Lu Yanming. "President Lu."

    Wang Peng panickly took giant steps to escape at the speed he once ran the boys'' 100m dash in high school.

    In their presence, he absolutely did not want to stay...

    Lu Yanming calmly nced up. "Director Yu."

    Yu Sheng got straight to the point. "Isn''t President Lu pursuing Qiao Yi? Why so concerned about Li Zhen''s matters?"

    "Who spread that rumor?" Lu Yanming''s lips curled up lightly.

    "Regardless of the source, there''s no smoke without fire. President Lu can''t be riding two horses at once, right? When pursuing someone, one should remain faithful. " Yu Sheng''s gaze was fixed as his dark eyes exuded chill.

    Lu Yanming casually pushed up his lofty wire-rimmed sses.

    His smile didn''t reach his eyes.

    Instead, they were cold.

    "Thanks for the reminder Director Yu. But I have always been...faithful."

    Lu Yanming walked away. His steps were heavy and steady, his back tall and straight.

    Yu Sheng''s gaze followed Lu Yanming until he entered the elevator before coldly withdrawing it. His heart was full of churning doubts.

    Something wasn''t right. Everything was not quite right.

 Chapter 138: The Good Sisters

    <h4>Chapter 138</h4>

    Yu Sheng''s thoughts, Li Zhen did not care at all.

    After work, Li Zhen went straight to the Li house.

    Tonight, she could just try the password to her mother''s video.

    At this time in the Li house, wine cups were intertwined.

    Li Zhen arrived at the vi, Li Yinnan personally weed her, "Zhen''er."

    These days, because of Yu Sheng''s reason, Li Yinnan''s cooperation documents came to hand and was unusually kind at this time when he saw Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen was disgusted, but in order to have a chance to try the passwordter, she endured it, "Dad."

    "Today is your sister''s birthday. Go and congratte her in person."

    "No need, I''m afraid we''ll fight."

    Li Zhen had just finished speaking when Li Yanran''s voice came from behind, "How could that be? Sister, I''ve missed you a lottely."

    Beside Li Yanran was her good friend Duan Zhixin. Since Yu Sheng kicked Duan Zhixinst time, Li Zhen hadn''t seen her for a long time. It seemed that the kick was not too hard!

    Seeing that the two sisters seemed to have eased their rtionship a lot, Li Yinnan was gratified and went to apany other guests.

    As the birthday girl today, Li Yanran was dressed especially luxurious and bright, with a smile at the corners of her mouth, "Sister, I''ve been thinking a lot these days. I feel like there may have been some misunderstandings between us before. Let''s make up."

    Duan Zhixin also smiled and said, "Yes, Li Zhen, I hope you don''t hold grudges."

    Li Zhen nodded thoughtfully, "You were the one who got kicked, and you don''t hold grudges. What do I have to hold grudges about?"

    Duan Zhixin''s face was instantly uglier than eating shit.

    Li Yanran immediately signaled her with her eyes.

    Duan Zhixin gritted her teeth secretly, but smiled on the surface, "That''s forgotten, we are still good sisters, Li Zhen."

    Li Zhen also smiled, her bright eyebrows raised, "Okay, good sisters."

    "Then from today we will break the ice!" Li Yanran was overjoyed, and quickly took three drinks from the side.

    The three of them each had one cup.

    Li Yanran affectionately held Li Zhen''s arm, "It''s so meaningful today, let''s have a drink together."

    Li Zhen nodded and suggested, "Since it''s such an important day, let''s take a picture together."

    After speaking, Li Zhen put down her drink and took out her phone to take a selfie.

    Li Yanran and Duan Zhixin could only do the same, putting down their cups.

    The three took an intimate selfie together.

    After taking the photo, Li Yanran kept chatting with Li Zhen, extremely enthusiastic.

    Half an hourter, Li Zhen rubbed her temples.

    Li Yanran and Duan Zhixin looked at each other.

    Li Yanran immediately stepped forward to support Li Zhen, "Sister, are you a little dizzy?"

    "Yes, I didn''t drink, why am I so dizzy?" Li Zhen leaned weakly against Li Yanran.

    "Then let me take you back to the guest room to rest for a while."

    Li Yanran said, and took her upstairs with Duan Zhixin.

    "Sister, sister..." Li Yanran shook Li Zhen, Li Zhen waspletely unresponsive.

    Duan Zhixin said joyfully, "Yanran! I didn''t expect the medicine to take effect so quickly."

    Li Yanran sneered coldly, "Just now she was still ridiculing us coldly and hotly. Let her cryter but not be able to cry out!"

    The two of them pushed open the door at the end of the corridor and threw Li Zhen on the bed.

    In the room, Qu Hu stood up with a swoosh, looking at the dizzy Li Zhen on the bed, his expression awkward.

    Li Yanran nced at him coldly, "Qu Hu, President Yu said a lot of good things about you. I gave you this opportunity. If you can''t do it, find another man."

    Qu Hu rubbed his hands awkwardly and asked in a tangled way: "Is the drug very strong? She...won''t be hurt, right?"

    "No, it''s just a little anesthetic and aphrodisiac. This is to make you enjoy yourself tonight. You can do her as many times as you want, whatever positions you want." Duan Zhixin said coldly.

    Li Yanran added with a smiling face: "But this drug is extremely fierce. Even the most chaste woman can be a slut under you begging for your favor."

    What they said immediately aroused Qu Hu physically.

    He covered his crotch awkwardly.

    Seeing him like this, Li Yanran sneered, then reminded, "Let me say it again, two hourster, your President Yu wille in. Anyway, you remember what to say, right?"

    "Remember," Qu Hu reacted slowly, "It was Li Zhen who asked me toe. We''ve been together for two years."

    In his heart, Qu Hu was afraid of Yu Sheng.

    Saying this was tantamount to admitting that Li Zhen had an affair with him during the marriage.

    He didn''t even dare to think how furious Yu Sheng would be.

    "Yes, that''s what you should say. Your President Yu may be furious, but you can only say this to make himpletely disappointed in Li Zhen, so that you can really be with Li Zhen." Li Yanran persuaded patiently.

    Qu Hu''s eyes darkened, and he nodded.

    Li Yanran and Duan Zhixin were about to leave.

    When they got to the door, Li Yanran looked back again, "Qu Hu, her body has been trained by Yu Sheng, you can enjoy it to your heart''s content. You''ve been waiting for so many years. It''s hard to have a night like this, don''t wrong yourself."

    Li Yanran closed the door with a bang.

    Qu Hu''s eyebrows twisted and shook.

    He turned his head to look at the person on the bed.

    Simple shirt and red skirt wrapped her curvy body, long hair like seaweed messily sticking to her long, snow-white neck.

    Qu Hu walked step by step, with jealous red in his eyes, "She''s right, I don''t need to pity you. Your body has been fucked by President Yu countless times, in countless positions!"

    "A second-hand divorcee, I''m willing to fuck you and marry you when you wake up, you canugh happily!"

    Thinking that the woman he had secretly loved for years would be his, Qu Hu''s whole body was extremely tense.

    He sat on the edge of Li Zhen''s bed, his rough hands caressing Li Zhen''s hands, tender as creamy jade.

    Just rubbing her hands made Qu Hu breathe heavily immediately.

    "Damn it!"

    Qu Hu was angry with himself for being so weak, just touching her hand made him unable to stand it.

    But it also felt sofortable that his scalp tingled.

    He couldn''t wait any longer. He took off his pants and leaned over to kiss Li Zhen''s full, tempting lips.

    Li Yanran and Duan Zhixin went downstairs.

    Duan Zhixin''s hands holding the wine ss were shaking with excitement.

    Li Yanran snorted, "Calm down, with your current appearance, others will know you have a problem with one look."

    "But I''m so happy! Li Zhen finally got what she deserved today!" Duan Zhixin''s eyes were shining. After being kicked by Yu Sheng, there wasn''t a day she didn''t hate Li Zhen.

    At the entrance, there was suddenly a lot of noise, with voices calling "Young Master Yu" one after another.

    Everyone focused their eyes on the neer, smiling and weing him.

 Chapter 139: Stalling

    <h4>Chapter 139</h4>

    Li Yanran''s lips curved into a smirk. "Let''s go stop him."

    Yu Sheng chatted with everyone for a good few minutes before extricating himself and arriving at Li Yinnan''s side.

    Li Yinnan was surprised. "I thought you were busy, so I didn''t tell you about Yanran''s birthday today."

    "I happen to be free tonight, so I came." The reason Yu Sheng came was because Li Yanran had told him that Li Zhen would be there tonight.

    He turned his head and nced around. "Where''s Li Zhen?"

    Li Yinnan was just about to answer when Li Yanran suddenly appeared behind Yu Sheng. "Brother Yu Sheng, my sister also brought a tall and handsome male colleague from herpany today, but I don''t know where the two of them went."

    Yu Sheng''s brows knitted for a fleeting moment. "I see."

    Li Yanran stopped talking.

    In her heart, however, she scoffed coldly. He was still defending Li Zhen now, but who knew what state Li Zhen was in after being messed with by that man!

    She would see Yu Sheng''s reactionter!

    Li Yanran had given Yu Sheng a lead-in for now by mentioning Li Zhen brought a male colleague. Yu Sheng wouldn''t immediately go looking for them.

    She would take him to the room after a while.

    Li Yinnan frowned. "What nonsense! Your sister didn''t bring anyone!"

    "Dad, you just didn''t see it. Sister went out again aftering in and personally brought him back herself. The two seem quite close."

    Yu Sheng''s dark eyes sank as he red at Li Yanran. "Bringing a friend home is no big deal. Don''t specte about her in that tone."

    Li Yanran lowered her head and said no more.

    In her heart, however, she scoffed coldly again. He was still defending Li Zhen now, but who knew what state Li Zhen was in after being messed with by that man!

    She would see Yu Sheng''s reactionter!

    Li Yanran''s phone suddenly rang. She walked aside and answered it.

    Seeing it was Qu Hu, she lowered her voice. "What''s up?"

    Qu Hu''s voice was very hoarse. "I''m done here. It''s good."

    Li Yanran was ted first.

    Li Zhen who had been arrogant for so many years had finally fallen into her hands!

    Let''s see if Yu Sheng would still want her!

    But in the next moment, she was taken aback. She looked at the time. "Just half an hour? Don''t you want to enjoy her more?"

    "No need. Enjoyed enough. Youe up first. I think I made her bleed. I''m afraid Mr. Yu will see it and realize I forced her."

    Li Yanran frowned. "You''re too careless. Let mee up and see."

    Half an hour ago.

    As Qu Hu leaned down, just about to kiss Li Zhen, his neck was suddenly hooked by a fair, slender arm.

    The next second, he felt the cold sensation of a de against his throat.

    Li Zhen abruptly opened her eyes, her clear eyespletely sober without the slightest blur. "The fruit knife in my hand is very sharp. Be careful, my good colleague!"

    "Li...Li Zhen, you didn''t drink the drug?" Qu Hu gaped in shock.

    Li Zhen let out a cold humph.

    Li Yanran and her ilk''s acting was just too amateurish.

    It was already suspicious that her arch-enemy suddenly wanted to bury the hatchet. Moreover, the servant who had been holding those three drinks and hovering around them clearly was just waiting for Li Yanran to take them.

    She would have to be blind not to find anything fishy about this.

    So under the guise of taking photos, she had switched her drink with Li Yanran''s.

    She had also secretly pocketed a fruit knife.

    Just to find out what nasty scheme Li Yanran was plotting, she had yed along until now.

    Her efforts had not been in vain.

    She had secretly recorded their earlier conversation.

    When Qu Hu touched her hand, she was already thoroughly disgusted. Fortunately, he had only touched her twice before bringing his neck within reach of her arm.

    "Li Zhen, let me go. Let''s talk this through..." Qu Hu instinctively tried to break free, but as he moved, the de pressed down an inch.

    A sticky liquid seeped from his neck.

    It was the blood from the cut the de had made in his skin.

    Qu Hu instantly dared not move again. "Be careful...don''t get excited."

    "I can''t guarantee that, so you should be the careful one, not me. If you move again and I slit your throat, I won''t be held ountable. After all, you wanted to rape me, so it would just be self-defense on my part." Li Zhen spoke calmly and unhurriedly.

    Qu Hu shook in fear. No matter how big he was, he feared the cold de. "I was wrong, Li Zhen. Let me go. I know I was wrong."

    As soon as Qu Hu finished speaking, Li Zhen did let him go and got up to sit in a nearby chair.

    "You actually hurt me!" But Qu Hu wiped the blood on his neck and his expression instantly darkened. "The moment you moved the knife away from my neck, you were destined to not get away tonight. Women really are foolish!"

    He had lusted after this woman for years. Now that she was within reach, how could he let her go!

    Qu Hu reached to grab the knife.

    Li Zhenzily took out her phone and dangled it in front of him, her expression calm without a hint of fear.

    Qu Hu froze. His hand grabbing for the knife involuntarily halted. This was bad. His gaze fixed on the phone in her hand. "What''s that?"

    "It''s my chat record with Xi Ya." Li Zhen slowly exined, "I sent her the recording of your conversation with them. Just this alone is enough to put you in jail for years."

    Li Zhen was half telling the truth and half bluffing.

    Li Zhen''s gaze inadvertently swept over Qu Hu''s bare lower body.

    Outwardly, Li Zhen was calm, but inwardly, she was screaming!

    Her eyes were dirty!

    A surge of disgust instantly washed over her. Li Zhen used tremendous willpower to keep from vomiting.

    Moreover, why were there men so inadequately sized!

    Compared to him, Lu Yanming was freakishly well-endowed.

    Li Zhen said in distaste, "Put your pants on first!"

    Qu Hu was extremely obedient now. In just a few seconds he put them on, and hastily exined, "I''ve just liked you for too long. I really didn''t intend to harm you, Li Zhen..."

    Qu Hu paused briefly, and his voice even took on a moved tone. "You''re a remarried woman now. Although you don''t have a child, remarried women also have a hard time remarrying. My mother definitely wouldn''t want me to marry you, but don''t worry. As long as you work hard, make money from your hand modeling, and give our family a big fat son, I will definitely treat you well."

    Li Zhen knitted her brows,ughed from anger, "So?"

    "So my appearance in your life is to save you!" Qu Hu looked up at her, his gaze scorching. "I won''t look down on you. My family bought me a two-bedroom apartment. I also have a car and over 78,000 yuan in savings. I will let you live a life envied by other women."

    Li Zhen was rendered speechless by his words. She sincerely asked, "Could your brain have been smashed by a door?"

    "What, you think my savings are too little?" Qu Hu finally heard the mockery in Li Zhen''s words and asked harshly in irritation.

    Li Zhen took a deep breath to stabilize her emotions, to prevent herself from being angered to death by the man''s touching logic. "No, I think your intelligence is too little!"

 Chapter 140: Some Personal Matters

    <h4>Chapter 140</h4>

    "Li Yanran, you..."

    "You! Shut up!" Li Zhen was toozy to listen to another word from him, "You call Li Yanran now and get her up here, otherwise... I''ll send this recording straight to the police station."

    Qu Hu''s expression changed several times.

    In the end he nodded.

    Li Yanran came upstairs and stood at the door, but felt dizzy and swayed.

    It took her two or three seconds to steady herself.

    "What''s going on? I didn''t drink that much tonight..." Li Yanranined in annoyance.

    But thinking about the scene she was about to see inside, she couldn''t afford to think too much about it, and hurriedly pushed open the door in front of her.

    As soon as she pushed the door open, her phone was suddenly snatched away, and she was pushed inside.

    With a "bang", the door was already closed.

    Before Li Yanran could react, she was already pressed against the edge of the bed with her hands tied behind her back.

    She looked back in shock and cursed, "Qu Hu! Let me go! What are you doing!"

    Qu Hu threw Li Yanran onto the bed and silently retreated to one side.

    Li Yanran said angrily, "You want to..."

    The rest of her words stopped abruptly.

    Li Yanran looked at Li Zhen incredulously as she stood neatly in front of her, "Li Zhen, you... you..."

    "You want to ask how I''m still fine and haven''t been vited? Or you want to ask why I''m okay after drinking the drug you gave me?" Li Zhen spoke unhurriedly, "Because I didn''t drink it at all, you did."

    Li Yanran shook her head in horror, "No, impossible!"

    But her body also seemed to be ying a joke on her. Li Yanran felt more and more dizzy, and her body was filled with a shamefully hot sensation.

    "Slut, slut! How could you do such a despicable thing!" Li Yanran gritted her teeth tightly, trying to suppress her body''s reaction.

    Li Zhen nodded.

    As expected of Li Yanran, she yed the game of falsely using others perfectly.

    Li Zhen wasn''t interested in bickering with her, "Li Yanran, I recorded your conversation with Qu Hu just now..."

    Li Yanran''s expression changed.

    Li Zhen said, "If you don''t want it to get out, tell me some of the passwords you, your mother, and Li Yinnan use frequently, say ten of them, I''ll go and verify them, but if you give me any fake ones, I''ll immediately send the recording to the media, and you, the Li Family''s precious daughter, won''t ever be able to show your face in public again for the rest of your life."

    "You want to know the passwords to steal money from my family?"

    "You don''t need to worry about that, I''ll start counting down from ten seconds, ten, nine, eight..."

    "I''ll tell you, I''ll tell you!"

    Li Yanran couldn''t let the recording get out, so she blurted out more than ten passwords that she knew.

    Li Zhen was afraid she would forget, so she took out her phone to record them.

    When she got home, she could try them one by one to see if any were the password for that USB drive.

    When Li Yanran finished speaking, Li Zhen walked to the door and nced at the two people in the room, "Li Yanran, didn''t you say the drug''s effects were very strong? Then I hope you have an unforgettable night..."

    "Li Zhen, you can''t, you can''t leave me locked in here..."

    Li Zhen cut off Li Yanran''s words as she closed the door behind her.

    Tonight''s trip was very fruitful!

    Hopefully one of these dozens of passwords will turn out to be the right one.

    Li Zhen went downstairs. The scene in the hall below was lively and bustling, in stark contrast to the gloom of the upstairs room.

    As soon as she went downstairs, her gaze met Duan Zhixin''s.

    Duan Zhixin''s eyes widened in shock.

    The next second, Duan Zhixin realized something was wrong, and immediately rushed upstairs towards the room.

    Li Zhen didn''t try to stop her.

    She couldn''t stop her anyway.

    She hadn''t really intended to let Li Yanran be taken advantage of in a muddled state for the whole night.

    Li Zhen bid farewell to her grandfather and slipped out through a side door.

    In the Li Family''s hall, a panicked servant rushed to Li Yinnan''s side, "Miss... she... she..."

    Yu Sheng''s expression darkened as he looked at the neer.

    Li Yinnan scolded in annoyance, "What about her, what''s going on!"

    "Miss... she..."

    The servant simply couldn''t bring himself to describe Li Yanran''s writhing, moaning, flushed state, and didn''t dare describe it either, he could only say: "Miss is sick, it''s an emergency, she needs to be sent to the hospital immediately."

    "Which miss!" Yu Sheng asked coldly.

    The frightened servant shuddered, "It''s Miss Yanran..."

    Li Yinnan immediately went upstairs.

    Yu Sheng was relieved and called Li Zhen.

    At this time, Li Zhen was already in a taxi, and directly hung up when she saw it was Yu Sheng''s call.

    When she got back to Huayang Famous Residence, Li Zhen was taking off her shoes in the foyer when Lu Yanming leaned over from behind her.

    "President Lu, I''m still taking off my shoes..." Li Zhen tried to push him away but couldn''t budge him.

    Lu Yanming gently hugged her from behind, nuzzling her neck and smelling her scent, "Where did you go today? Did you drink?"

    "I didn''t drink, I went back to the Li Family for a bit, today is Li Yanran''s birthday." Li Zhen answered everything.

    Lu Yanming released her and looked her up and down, until he was sure she hadn''t bumped or scraped herself anywhere, before withdrawing his gaze. He picked her up horizontally, "That''s good, don''t drink alcohol anymore in the future, it''s bad for your health."

    Li Zhen was already used to being carried around like this, and actually felt very steady leaning against his chest, "I''m not a child, you don''t need to worry about me like I''m a child."

    "Whether it''s a child or an adult, I worry." Lu Yanming lowered his head and kissed the woman in his arms.

    There was meaning behind his words, but Li Zhen didn''t pick up on it at all.

    "President Lu, I want to go upstairs." Li Zhen ordered unabashedly.

    "Okay." Lu Yanming responded, and carried her upstairs as he asked, "Going to the Li Family today, did you go with Yu Sheng?"

    Li Zhen looked up at him from his arms, her bright eyes gazing at him, "No, I went by myself, Yu Sheng was there too, but I didn''t see him."

    Lu Yanming carried her very steadily, one step at a time, "It''s been so long since your divorce, why haven''t you told the Li Family yet?"

    He asked casually, as if he didn''t care much for the answer.

    But the slight force with which he held Li Zhen betrayed his inner feelings.

    Li Zhen was surprised.

    Lu Yanming actually asked her so directly.

    But of course she couldn''t tell him about this matter, she just vaguely said, "There are some minor reasons."

    "What reasons?" Lu Yanming persisted.

    He naturally knew Li Zhen had her reasons, and previously he didn''t pry too much.

    But now she was carrying their child.

    Even if he didn''t say anything, she would find out she was pregnant soon anyway.

    He didn''t have time to keep waiting.

    What exactly were her concerns?

    Li Zhen''s gaze dodged, "Just some personal matters..."

    "What personal matters?" Lu Yanming asked again.

    Li Zhen thought this wasn''t good, Lu Yanming''s persistence hade up again.

    Lu Yanming had already carried her upstairs, but still hadn''t put her down.

    His voice was low and deep, instantly sounding gentle as soon as he spoke, "Zhen Zhen, you don''t have some n you need toplete, and once it''s done, you won''t want me anymore, right?"

 Chapter 141: Girth

    <h4>Chapter 141</h4>

    Li Zhen''s heart skipped a beat.

    Did he guess that she wanted to leave an heir for her father?

    Impossible, right?

    Li Zhen smiled and concealed her uneasiness, "Mr. Lu, we''re not at the stage of wanting or not wanting. I''m only helping you deal with your family."

    Besides, she had poked several big holes in the small umbre recently, so she should be pregnant soon.

    Once pregnant, she would definitely leave Lu Yanming.

    Li Zhen decided to pave the way since they were on the topic already, "Mr. Lu, I think it''s enough to just take wedding photos and keep the marriage certificate to deal with your family. Or you can also take more photos and videos of us together. Also..."

    Li Zhen rubbed her nose, "You''re so capable of handling anything, how could you not handle your own family?"

    Lu Yanming''s eyes darkened for a moment.

    Every sentence of hers had an underlying message - she wanted to leave him.

    Helplessness wrapped around himyer byyer, making it difficult for him to even breathe.

    She was right. How could he not handle his own family?

    The only person he couldn''t handle was Li Zhen.

    Lu Yanming ced her on the bed and sat down beside her tall frame. His light eyes gazed at her intently, "Then what?"

    "Hmm?" Li Zhen was startled for a moment.

    "After you leave me and let me deal with my family alone, what about you? Do you still want to go back to Yu Sheng?" Saying this made Lu Yanming''s chest ache dully.

    "It''s absolutely impossible between me and Yu Sheng." Li Zhen blurted out.

    "Then what kind of man do you want to find in the future?" Lu Yanming grasped her slender wrist, and his long index finger gently rested on her pulse.

    It was as if this allowed him to be closer to her heart.

    Lu Yanming''s question left Li Zhen dumbfounded.

    Who said she still wanted to find another man? After getting Yu''s shares, her child, grandfather and herself would have a wonderful life together.

    Li Zhen''s thoughts unintentionally drifted away.

    But suddenly, she felt a hot touch on her lips.

    Li Zhen was instantly brought back to her senses.

    Before her eyes were Lu Yanming''s magnified handsome features.

    His light yet heavy kiss was exceptionally tender. His long fingers moved inch by inch from her wrist, intertwining with her fingers, half-pressing her onto the bed.

    Sensing Li Zhen''s slightly uneven breathing, Lu Yanming immediately released her.

    He supported himself with both hands on either side of her, lowering his head to gaze at her intently, "Zhen Zhen, you actually started considering who to find after leaving me? Is that what my question about your ideal spouse criteria made you think about?"

    "No, I was just thinking of something else..." Li Zhen''s face flushed red, her eyes wet at the corners.

    Lu Yanming took off his gold-rimmed sses. His usually gentle gaze revealed a hint of undeniable eager anticipation, "Zhen Zhen, I''m notcking. Do you want to consider me?"

    His tone was extremely serious.

    Li Zhen was slightly stunned, "Mr. Lu... what do you mean?"

    Once the door was opened, his heart full of feelings could no longer be controlled.

    Lu Yanming felt sour inside.

    His fingers sped hers even tighter as he buried his head in her shoulder.

    "Zhen Zhen, what exactly are your criteria for choosing a partner? You loved Yu Sheng for seven years, so what was it about him that you loved? I''m notcking in looks, height, family background or anything, yet in these two months you haven''t considered even for a moment spending your life with me?"

    Li Zhen waspletely confused.

    Lu Yanming had taken a liking to her? He really wanted to spend his life with her?

    Her thoughts were a little chaotic.

    Ever since divorcing Yu Sheng that day, she hadn''t considered spending her life with anyone else.

    Yu Sheng was once willing to risk his life to save her, and was attentive to her in every way when they first got together.

    But in the end...

    Their seven years of feelings did not end well.

    Did she want to take another seven years to ept someone else, only to end tragically again?

    But thinking further, if that person was Lu Yanming, then maybe...it wouldn''t be uneptable...

    This fleeting thought shed by.

    Li Zhen hurriedly suppressed it.

    No, didn''t Yu Sheng''s matter teach her a lesson...

    Maybe Lu Yanming just couldn''t find any other good marriage partner, so he was toozy to look and settled for her instead.

    Li Zhen cleared her throat, "Mr. Lu, you just haven''t interacted with many other girls. You haven''t been with other girls before. Why don''t I help introduce some girls to you?"

    "You want to matchmake for me?" Lu Yanming sat up, looking down at her.

    This felt like pouring scalding hot oil onto his heart. Helplessness and pain mmed into him.

    His fingers unconsciously clenched.

    Li Zhen cried out in pain, "Mr. Lu!"

    Only then did Lu Yanminge to his senses and loosen his grip on her hand. His tone was low, "I didn''t know you enjoyed matchmaking."

    "It''s for your sake!" Li Zhen smiled awkwardly.

    "Thanks, but no need." Lu Yanming casually raised his brow, unable to even force a smile.

    He didn''t want his bad mood to affect her, and just wanted to leave her sight quickly.

    Lu Yanming randomly grabbed a towel and spoke heavily, "I''ll go shower first."

    "Okay." Li Zhen obediently responded.

    Lu Yanming got up and went into the bathroom.

    Li Zhen then sat down at theputer, plugged in the USB drive, and tried all the passwords that Li Yanran had mentioned.

    Not a single one was correct.

    Li Zhen sighed softly.

    Never mind, she would try to get more passwords next time.

    She had Li Yanran''s recording, which was more useful than anything.

    Li Zheny down on the bed and took out her phone to y with.

    Her phone happened to show a short video of a big celebrity actor showing off his figure.

    Li Zhen couldn''t help sighing, looking at how these big celebrities managed their physiques.

    After she resigned, if she really entered the entertainment industry, she would probably have to refrain from eating this and that every day too.

    Thinking about it made her feel a little bleak.

    She opened thements, and the top likedment was from the actor''s fans, madly ogling the screen: "Brother''s waist isn''t a waist, it''s a life-taking curved de."

    The second most likedment was: "I beg the software developers to add a touch function."

    The third most likedment was: "Brother, can I measure your waist with my legs?"

    Li Zhen couldn''t helpughing and liked all threements.

    After liking them, she suddenly felt something was wrong.

    A shadow fell over her phone.

    Li Zhen looked up to meet Lu Yanming''s deep gaze.

    A bath towel was wrapped around his waist, his muscr upper body revealed enviable perfect muscles. Water drops slowly trickled down his body contours, disappearing into the edge of the towel below his abs.

    Li Zhen: ......

    She unconsciously swallowed.

    Her mind instantlypared the man before her eyes to that actor.

    She concluded: Lu Yanming''s physique was simply god-given, blowing that entertainment circle male god out of the water.

    Lu Yanming''s gaze fell on her phone. He was already upset before his shower, and even more upset now after his shower...

    Li Zhen lowered her head to look, her face instantly turning red, "No, Mr. Lu, I..."

    Lu Yanming spoke in a low voice, his tone iparably maic, "A brother''s waist isn''t a waist, it''s a life-taking curved de?"

    Li Zhen''s face paled a little.

    Her toes curled awkwardly into the bedsheet, crumpling it into the shape of three sixes...

    As if mocking her for impulsively liking those threements just now.

    Lu Yanming continued unhurriedly in anguid tone.

    "Wanting software that can add a touch function?"

    "Wanting to measure a brother''s waist with your legs?"

    "Zhen Zhen, did you measure my waist clearly with your legs? And now you want to go measure someone else''s?"

 Chapter 142: Congliang

    <h4>Chapter 142</h4>

    Li Zhen shrank her neck, her head burying lower and lower. ¡°Mr. Lu, I really just thought thement was funny so I liked it, that¡¯s all.¡±

    Lu Yanming leaned in and lightly bit her lips with a hint of punishment. ¡°You''d better mean that.¡±

    Li Zhen looked up. Lu Yanming had already swiftly changed into a different set of clothes. ¡°Go to bed early. I¡¯m going out for a run.¡±

    Ever since he had returned to the country, he had spent all his free time with Li Zhen, and hadn¡¯t exercised at all.

    But just now, when Li Zhen had liked some other man''s video, he had suddenly felt a sense of crisis.

    Li Zhen thought she had misheard. ¡°What? It¡¯s almost nine o¡¯clock already...¡±

    ¡°Yeah, so you should rest early,¡± Lu Yanming strode over and nted another kiss on Li Zhen''s soft lips.

    Just as he was about to turn to leave, his departure was stopped by a soft little hand grabbing him.

    Lu Yanming turned back around.

    Li Zhen sat on the bed, looking up at him longingly with puppy dog eyes. ¡°Mr. Lu, we shouldn¡¯t waste such a lovely night. Why go out running?¡±

    ¡°Quite the poet, aren¡¯t we?¡± Lu Yanming chuckled lightly.

    Li Zhen had summoned all her courage just to lower herself to ask this much, and hisugh made her feel even more embarrassed.

    But getting pregnant was the priority here, and even though her ovtion period had passed several days ago, she had been diligently trying every day prior.

    Just to be safe, a few more days of hardship!

    ¡°Like rhyming huh? I cane up with a few more lines,¡± Li Zhen craned her neck to look at him, refusing to let go of his hand, ¡°Don¡¯t go running,e to bed instead. I¡¯ll rhyme some more for you...¡±

    Lu Yanming¡¯s features were sharply defined, and now with his sses off, his superior bone structure paired with those light colored, aloof eyes made him even more bewitching.

    But the words that came out of his mouthpletely shattered that aura.

    ¡°Zhen Zhen, I¡¯ve been... not functionally up to it the past few days. I need to rest.¡±

    Li Zhen: ......

    Auditory hallucinations, auditory hallucinations.

    An ox that had tirelessly and happily plowed the fields every day was saying he wasn¡¯t up for it anymore.

    Li Zhen rubbed her ears. ¡°Mr. Lu, my hearing hasn¡¯t been greattely. What did you just say?¡±

    Lu Yanming¡¯s gaze subtly swept over her t belly. He leaned in and kissed the soft corner of her lips again. ¡°I said, you¡¯ve been too frequenttely...¡±

    Li Zhen was both embarrassed and mortified.

    She had been quite... frequent recently.

    But this was when she desperately wanted to get pregnant!

    Or find someone else?

    He Ge from the purchasing department seemed pretty smart too, and he looked decent.

    She''d heard the finance department got a new elite hire straight out of a top university, with good EQ and IQ...

    "What He Ge? What new hire? Zhen Zhen, what are you mumbling about?" Lu Yanming''s tone was leisurely slow, but his eyes were fixed unwaveringly on Li Zhen''s petite face.

    Li Zhen''s back went rigid.

    Had she identally said that out loud!

    Li Zhen¡¯s scalp exploded, her heart rate involuntarily speeding up. "I...I was just murmuring randomly, nothing..."

    Lu Yanming leaned down slightly, grasping her chin with his fingers and gently lifting it, forcing her to look him in the eyes. "Zhen Zhen, if I find out you have needs and went looking for someone else..."

    His tone was just as low and gentle as always.

    But Li Zhen could clearly hear the oppressive undertone.

    "I won''t, I won''t..." Li Zhen hurriedly shook her head.

    Compared to when they had first started out, now she truly did not want to find another man to bear his child. Just the thought made her feel ufortable and disgusted.

    Lu Yanming let her go with a soft sigh. "Let me help you..."

    Li Zhen was utterly confused.

    Help her how...

    What was Lu Yanming talking about?

    Lu Yanming took off his clothes and got under the covers, pulling Li Zhen into his embrace.

    He moved lightly, gently, afraid of moving too much.

    Kissing the woman in his arms, his hand slowly caressed her slender back.

    Inch by inch downwards.

    He released her for a couple seconds, smiling as he saw the flush of color on her face. "Zhen Zhen, rx."

    "Mr. Lu, this isn''t what I wanted, your hand..."

    Before she could finish, her words were silenced by another kiss.

    Her body went soft in his arms.

    Li Zhen¡¯s heart pounded violently, her ears, cheeks, all flooded with crimson.

    Her body trembled slightly.

    "Zhen Zhen..." Lu Yanming''s body waspletely bare as he grabbed her hand and pressed it against his hard, sculpted abs.

    Li Zhen thought, Lu Yanming must have been some kind of fox demon in his past life!

    Half an hourter.

    Li Zhen was furious, but her entire limp, powerless body couldn''t even angrily curse at him, instead it just sounded like coquettish whining.

    "Lu Yanming! This isn''t what I wanted!"

    The corners of Lu Yanming''s thin lips turned up. "Oh? But you seemed to quite enjoy it..."

    As soon as he finished speaking, he picked up the girl who had turned soft as water on the bed, and gently ced her on the soft couch next to it.

    As if to prove his point, Lu Yanming deliberately said next to Li Zhen''s ear, "I''ll have to change the sheets."

    Li Zhen: ......

    She didn¡¯t dare say anything more, just gnashed her teeth in anger, breathing heavily like an angry yet powerless pufferfish.

    Lu Yanming couldn''t hold back and kissed her again. "Does it really not feel good? Why are you so angry?"

    "I..." Li Zhen wanted to exin, but didn''t know where to start.

    In Lu Yanming''s eyes, wasn''t she just someone with a strong libido who often took advantage of him!

    She could only bite out angrily, "I can''t get through to you, generation gap!"

    Lu Yanming went along with her words. "I see, generation gap. I must be getting old and hard to satisfy young people..."

    Li Zhen red at him, unhappy.

    "Alright, don''t be angry. I''ll try something else tomorrow..." Lu Yanming rubbed her fluffy hair, the soft touch excellent.

    Having said that, he turned and went into the walk-in closet, grabbing new sheets.

    "Try something else? What something else?" Li Zhen didn''t quite understand.

    "Since you don''t like my hands, I can only use something else." Lu Yanming removed the old sheets and spread out clean new ones, skilled in his actions. "My kidneys are shot too. You don''t like my hands, so what else can I use..."

    Li Zhen understood immediately this time.

    Her scalp tingled ufortably!

    How could Lu Yanming say something like this with a straight face!

    Li Zhen clicked her tongue twice, asking uncertainly, "Mr. Lu, you didn''t actually moonlight in that profession before... did you?"

    "What nonsense are you talking about? What do you think I did?" As Lu Yanming smoothed out the bed sheet, he asked casually.

    "Cough cough... I mean... at a bar..." Li Zhen cautiously ventured.

    Lu Yanming paused his motions briefly and nodded. "Yeah, I did do that before."

    Li Zhen excitedly stood up. "I knew it! I knew your skills were so good and you knew so many techniques!"

    "Is Zhen Zhen praising me?" Lu Yanming looked at her in amusement.

    Li Zhen froze.

    Crap.

    She had identally praised him after all.

    Making it seem like she really enjoyed it...

    After finishing with the bed, Lu Yanming came over and nced at her breezily. "I did do it before, only once. Someone paid 50,000 for my first night, then I went straight and got married after that."

 Chapter 143: Safe Diet

    <h4>Chapter 143</h4>

    Li Zhen took a deep breath and hit her own mouth!

    How could she not learn her lesson!

    She shouldn''t have brought it up!

    Lu Yanming grasped her slender wrist, picked her up and put her on the bed, "Time to sleep, Zhen Zhen..."

    "So early, it''s only ten o''clock."

    "From now on we''re going to sleep and get up early."

    "Okay." Li Zhen turned over, wanting to keep some distance from Lu Yanming.

    But the man behind her pressed close, hugging her from behind into his arms.

    Lu Yanming''s broad palmy on her lower abdomen, feeling it rise and fall with her breathing.

    The little life was trying hard to grow.

    His heart was filled, sore and swollen.

    How could he let Li Zhen know about this child after finding out and still ept it...

    "President Lu..." Li Zhen called softly.

    "Hmm?"

    "Are you in a bad mood?"

    Li Zhen couldn''t say why exactly, but she just felt that the man behind her seemed to be very depressed.

    This intuition made her mood sink down along with him.

    "No, go to sleep..." Lu Yanming lightly kissed her earlobe.

    Li Zhen was stunned for a moment.

    It looked like she was right.

    He was clearly in a very heavy mood.

    She and him were like a line of connected emotions, suddenly extremely sensitive to his mood.

    And she couldn''t just ignore it.

    Li Zhen turned around and snuggled into his arms face to face.

    The next morning, the models in the advertising department finished their busy work around eleven o''clock and were all waiting in the rest area for lunch time. Everyone had never looked forward to thepany lunch like they did recently.

    Meng Yuanjie shook his legs, saw the time hit 11:55, and sprang up, "Let''s go, let''s go five minutes early!"

    This was exactly what Zhang Xiya wanted.

    "Let''s go, Qiao Yi, Zhen Zhen!" Zhang Xiya pulled the two along to leave.

    Li Zhen walked at the back, taking out her phone to search.

    In her search history that morning, she had already searched hundreds of items.

    Lu Yanming was in a bad moodst night, and Li Zhen still hadn''t figured out why.

    So most of her searches today were about "Why do men get in a bad mood?"

    After searching fruitlessly for a while, Li Zhen searched "How to safely supplement kidney function in men with poor kidney function".

    Li Zhen walked while looking at the records on her phone.

    Suddenly she understood!

    Why else would Lu Yanming be in a bad mood!

    It must be because his kidneys were not good!

    Li Zhen''s confusion was swept away, she immediately sent Lu Yanming a message: [President Lu, let go and look on the bright side, I''ll supplement you tonight when I get home!]

    Lu Yanming replied very quickly, [Isn''t Miss Zhen too eager?]

    Li Zhen was embarrassed and raised her eyebrows, [Not at all, I''m just thinking of you.]

    Li Zhen lowered her head and followed everyone into the elevator, feeling proud that she was thoughtfully caring for and couldfort Lu Yanming''s bad mood.

    Suddenly, her elbow was nudged.

    Li Zhen looked up in surprise and saw Zhang Xiya winking at her.

    Li Zhen followed her gaze and saw Yu Sheng standing at the very front of the elevator, his back facing the four of them, but still giving off an oppressive aura. The marketing department had been under low air pressure these past two days, and Yu Sheng was filled with endless coldness.

    Yu Sheng saw Li Zhen get on ying with her phone, he didn''t know what she was looking at on her phone, but the corners of her lips and brows couldn''t hide her smile.

    The elevator arrived, Yu Sheng stepped out first.

    Li Zhen and Zhang Xiya followed him out of the elevator.

    All the way to the cafeteria, there was no end to the "President Yu" greetings, all greeting Yu Sheng.

    Li Zhen was behind, deliberately falling back a few steps to keep some distance from him.

    Zhang Xiya and the others also understood, and slowed down with Li Zhen.

    Not until they were sure Yu Sheng couldn''t hear them clearly did Qiao Yi ask Li Zhen quietly: "How are things between you and President Yu?"

    Meng Yuanjie looked worried, "President Yu, he''s a bit scary..."

    Li Zhen rubbed her temples with a headache.

    It wasn''t that she had a headache from irritation, she really had a headache, whenever she thought too muchtely, it made her mentally tense and prone to migraines.

    Zhang Xiya sighed, "You guys only know this much, you didn''t see that day after work, President Yu waited in our department for little Zhen Zhen, although he didn''t get angry, but he looked like he wanted to eat someone."

    When they got to the queueing windows, the colleagues in front saw Li Zhen behind them and quickly poked theirpanions.

    The two hurriedly left, letting Li Zhen and the others order first.

    Zhang Xiya and the others stared wide-eyed.

    Meng Yuanjie was stunned, ordering food while mumbling, "What''s going on? Why do they run away when they see us?"

    In the queue at the windows next to them was Xiao Cai from the administration department.

    Xiao Cai, holding a tray of food she had ordered, came up to Li Zhen and hesitantly said in a low voice: "Li Zhen, Qu Hu resigned today. Everyone is saying that the one who pursued you before was Qu Hu, and that President Yu found out and forced him to resign, so everyone is a little afraid of you..."

    "Thank you for telling me, Xiao Cai." Li Zhen nodded, suddenly understanding.

    Qu Hu had worked with Li Yanran yesterday to try to use those despicable means, clearly he was found out and didn''t have the face to stay, but it was spread that Yu Sheng couldn''t tolerate people.

    After Xiao Cai left, Zhang Xiyained, "Everyone really has too much free time, they can connect anything together."

    After sitting down at their seats, Meng Yuanjie said, "Right, and besides, even if it was true, shouldn''t they be afraid of President Yu, what does it have to do with Li Zhen."

    -

    Yu Sheng sat by the window in the cafeteria, his dark eyes ncing at Li Zhen ahead.

    His phone suddenly rang and Yu Sheng looked at it before answering.

    "Uncle Kong."

    "Little Yu..." Kong Yi''s words were hesitant, wavering between saying it and not saying it, he hesitated for two seconds, "Last time the head of the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television personally asked for the female lead, and they said the actress wasn''t well, she''s not doing this show anymore..."

    Of course Yu Sheng remembered this.

    He looked at Li Zhen again, "Uncle Kong, so what you mean is, Li Zhen can do it now?"

    "Well...not exactly..." Kong Yi''s voice on the other end was very tangled, "I just found out from them today, that actress is little Li..."

    "Li Zhen?" Yu Sheng''s brows sank slightly, his gaze somewhat hesitant.

    "Little Yu, I don''t know the specifics of what exactly happened, don''t overthink it, justmunicate well with little Li first."

    In the entertainment industry, the female lead of a surefire hit show was what countless people scrambled for recklessly. Being able to urately find the top person at the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television, this person was absolutely not ordinary.

    The entertainment industry has always been about money and sex.

    Yu Sheng''s breathing fluctuated, his brows and eyes full of icy coldness.

    After hanging up the phone, he abruptly stood up, footsteps heavy, and strode towards Li Zhen.

    Li Zhen had been too prone to fatiguetely, after eating she was preparing to go back to the office alone to rest first, but had just gotten to the cafeteria door when her wrist was suddenly grabbed fiercely.

    A violent, low roar exploded in her ear.

    "Li Zhen!"

    Li Zhen was forcibly pulled around.

    Yu Sheng was dressed in a ck suit, shrouding his whole person in ayer of undispersed gloom, his face was ashen, "Who is that person!"

    The gazes of everyone in the cafeteria looked over almost at the same time.

    Li Zhen''s wrist was pinched painfully, her brows knitted together, "This is thepany, let me go!"

    Yu Sheng''s eyes stared fixedly at her, the anger in them burned painfully, "Li Zhen, just what have you been hiding from me recently! Who did you use your body to get favors from!"

    "What using my body for favors..." Li Zhen was baffled.

    "Still unwilling to say it! That person who found the connection for you and asked for the female lead of Moon Scar! Who is it!"

 Chapter 144: Is It The Money or You

    <h4>Chapter 144</h4>

    Yu Sheng''s words came out.

    Everyone was stunned.

    Li Zhen is the heroine of Moon Scar?

    How is that possible?

    Countlessplex eyes gathered on Li Zhen''s face.

    Li Zhen only felt chills down her spine.

    She pulled Yu Sheng back to the hallway, annoyed to the extreme, "What heroine of Moon Scar, I don''t know what you mean! Yu Sheng, can you stop going crazy all the time recently! Do you want to drive me mentally exhausted before you are satisfied!"

    Li Zhen''s attitudepletely angered Yu Sheng. He shouted loudly, "An actress is an actress, what did you use to get this resource? Is it money! Or did you offer yourself..."

    With a crisp "p" sound.

    Li Zhen pped Yu Sheng hard on the face.

    Yu Sheng was stunned for a moment.

    Li Zhen gritted her teeth, her red lips opened and closed, her tone icy cold, "Yu Sheng, do you want to take a look at what you are like now, what''s the difference between you and the person who used to hand out flyers on the yground! Why do you have to specte about me with the most vulgar thoughts! After being married for a year, can''t we just separate amicably?"

    Yu Sheng took a step back, memories surged in like a tide.

    In Li Zhen''s freshman year, she was selected as the heroine of the school''s y "Song of Evesting Sorrow". Someone posted countless flyers on the yground.

    It directly pointed out that Li Zhen got the role by offering sexual favors to the school leaders.

    That night, he took Zhou Chaowen and the others to tear down all the flyers on the yground, and also waited for the girl who posted the flyers and beat her up.

    The next morning, Li Zhen blocked him at the door of the boys'' dormitory, lowered her head, seemingly afraid that he would not believe her, and said dispiritedly, "School prince, my affair was spread like wildfire yesterday, but I really didn''t..."

    At that time, Li Zhen''s face was not as thin as it is now, the facial contours of the neen-year-old girl were soft and somewhat naive.

    Seeing that the boy she admired had not spoken for a long time, she looked up at him.

    The morning light fell on the milk-white skin of the young girl, and the tiny fluff was clearly visible, delicate enough to break with a touch.

    Those eyes were clean and pure, with a moist luster, looking at him carefully.

    "School prince, do you not believe me?"

    Li Zhen didn''t know that he was just staring nkly at the time.

    He kept a straight face, expressionless, "I don''t have time to listen to those boring rumors."

    With just one sentence, Li Zhen''s eyes lit up in an instant, those eyes were so bright that people didn''t dare to look directly at them. He shifted his eyes away indifferently, and walked past Li Zhen as if nothing had happened, but his heart was beating wildly.

    Yu Sheng pulled back his thoughts.

    The Li Zhen in front of him no longer looked at him with those expectant and innocent eyes, but with anger and disgust.

    A stabbing pain came from his heart.

    Why did he suddenly be like this today?

    Yu Sheng''s temples throbbed violently.

    Li Zhen squeezed out the words one by one, "Yu Sheng, we have nothing to do with each other anymore, please stop bothering me!"

    This sentence was even heavier than the p.

    The blood drained from Yu Sheng''s face inch by inch.

    For a moment, there was a daze in his expression. From the day Li Zhen moved out until today, everything that had happened shed through his mind.

    From the night when Li Zhen was forced to move back to Jinlu Courtyard because of grandfather, he had already noticed Li Zhen''s abnormality.

    Her divorce was not a temper tantrum, she really made up her mind.

    He noticed but didn''t dare to believe it.

    He numbed himself over and over again, deceiving himself again and again, his brain was self-deceiving.

    With his nerves stretched to the limit and his sanitypletely gone, he could only force her. He only had helpless rage left, and the violent pain made him lose his temper with her several times.

    The intense pain surged in, engulfing himyer byyer.

    He was wrong.

    From the moment he agreed to the divorce, he was wrong!

    Even in the hallway outside the restaurant, people still came and went incessantly. In just a short while, arge group of people were not far away, craning their necks to watch themotion.

    Li Zhen nced around and really didn''t want to be stared at like a monkey in a zoo.

    Li Zhen turned to leave.

    Yu Sheng reached out and grabbed her wrist, his voice slightly trembling, "Li Zhen..."

    Li Zhen tried to pull her hand back, "Let go!"

    But Yu Sheng''s grip only tightened inch by inch. His icy tone was tinged with bitterness, "I didn''t mean that just now, I''ve been emotionally unstable recently..."

    "It hurts! Yu Sheng!" Li Zhen felt the pain from the pressure on her wrist.

    The next second, Zhang Xiya rushed out of the restaurant, opened Yu Sheng''s hand, "President Yu! Let go, there are so many people here, do you want Little Zhen Zhen to beughed at like this!"

    Yu Sheng''s fingers stiffened for a moment, then slowly loosened.

    His eyes stayed on Li Zhen''s face for a few seconds, then he turned and walked away step by step.

    Qiao Yi and Meng Yuanjie were on the side, frowning and driving away the onlookers, "Everyone stop watching, what''s there to see!"

    The crowd dispersed.

    Only then did Li Zhen really rx.

    She lowered her head and breathed lightly, but a pair of ck men''s leather shoes appeared in her eyes.

    Looking up, Li Zhen met Lu Yanming''s pale eyes, "President Lu?"

    Lu Yanming didn''t speak, took Li Zhen''s hand, and a circle of striking red on the fair wrist, "What happened just now?"

    "President Lu, President Yu suddenly..." Qiao Yi hesitated, not knowing how to describe it, so she changed the subject, "But it''s nothing now."

    Lu Yanming nodded, "I roughly know what happened, thank you all for apanying Zhen Zhen just now..."

    The two words "Zhen Zhen" naturally made Li Zhen''s scalp tingle.

    She hurriedly tugged Lu Yanming''s sleeve, smiled awkwardly, while avoiding Zhang Xiya and the others'' inquisitive eyes, she whispered embarrassedly in his ear, "President Lu, pay attention to the asion..."

    Lu Yanming stared at her for two seconds. His words were earth-shattering, but his tone was meaningful, "Zhen Zhen, when husbands and wives talk, what asion do they need to pay attention to?"

    The ex-husband doesn''t need to pay attention to the asion.

    Why should he pay attention to the asion?

    Li Zhen: ......

    Zhang Xiya: ......

    Meng Yuanjie: ......

    Qiao Yi: ......

    Qiao Yi reacted first, her voice almost trembling, "You, you and President Lu... got married!"

    Meng Yuanjie''s eyeballs had already popped out in shock.

    Li Zhen was dumbfounded, unable to speak.

    This was not what she had in mind!

    She was just forced by Lu Yanming to help out, why did she feel like he couldn''t wait to announce it to the whole world?

    Lu Yanming stood upright, raised his hand and nced at the ck and gold luxury watch on his cold wrist, "Today is Friday. Tomorrow is the weekend. Does everyone have time? Let''s have a small gathering at our house tomorrow to liven up the weekend."

    Our house?

    The expressions of the three hadpletely lost control.

    Every sentence Lu Yanming said was developing in a direction they couldn''t understand.

    The air was silent and scary.

    Lu Yanming calmly made the final sentence, "Then it''s settled, see you all tomorrow."

    After speaking, he leaned down slightly, close to Li Zhen.

    Under the various expressions of the other three people "Oh my god it''s going to get inappropriate for children", "Oh my goodness so sweet", "Who am I where am I this can''t be real"¡ª

    "Zhen Zhen, you''ll have to work hard tomorrow." Lu Yanming gently put his arm around Li Zhen''s waist and lightly kissed the corner of her soft lips.

    Li Zhen was still in a daze, her clear eyes wide open in shock.

    Like a startled delicate doll.

    In just one second, Lu Yanming let her go and stood upright, ignoring the surprised people, he turned and walked into the restaurant.

 Chapter 145: One Pot of Food

    <h4>Chapter 145</h4>

    Lu Yanming turned around and bumped into Xu Yu, the general manager of the administration department, at the door.

    Xu Yu stood at the door like a statue, stunned and unable to recover her senses, having obviously seen the whole thing.

    Lu Yanming nodded slightly, his tone indifferent. "Manager Xu."

    "Mr. Lu...Lu...Lu...!" Xu Yu stammered.

    Lu Yanming passed by her with an unchanged expression, brushing shoulders.

    Only then did Xu Yue to life, reacting from the earlier shock.

    The CP she had been rooting for got together!

    What''s more, they had kissed right before her eyes!

    Xu Yu was sweetened to the point of dizzy ecstasy, and merrily made her way into the dining room with a big appetite today!

    It took Zhang Xiya quite a while to recover her senses. She grabbed Li Zhen''s hand and said, "Little Zhen Zhen! You got married without telling us!"

    Meng Yuanjie''s voice pitch subconsciously went up in surprise. "That''s right! More importantly, that man turned out to be Mr. Lu! It''s actually Mr. Lu!"

    Qiao Yi calmed down and suddenly said, "Zhen Zhen! So, you took the whole hot pot of Studs G?"

    One ex-husband.

    One current partner!

    Li Zhen quickly steadied herself. "I didn''t mean to hide it from you guys. Mr. Lu and I aren''t what you think. Don''te tomorrow..."

    Meng Yuanjie interrupted and asked directly, "Have you two gotten a marriage certificate?"

    Li Zhen: ...

    Qiao Yi: "Are you two living together?"

    Li Zhen: ...

    Zhang Xiya rubbed her hands excitedly, "Did you sleep with Mr. Lu?"

    Li Zhen: ...

    Seeing Li Zhen''s expression, Meng Yuanjie nodded. "Looks like it''s just as we thought! Li Zhen, well done!"

    Zhang Xiya was overjoyed to the point of taking flight. "You actually got together with Mr. Lu! My god! Then we muste tomorrow!"

    Li Zhen was at aplete loss.

    If her little white lie about borrowing Lu''s seed hadn''t been exposed prematurely, she would have told them the truth directly.

    What''s more difficult was that Lu Yanming had decided to invite them over to his ce, and she couldn''t refute him at all, otherwise he had a hundred ways to force her to agree, and things would get moreplicated.

    What had gotten into Lu Yanming!

    After work, Li Zhen went shopping with Zhang Xiya untilte evening before heading home in light rain.

    She took a taxi to the entrance of Huayang Famous Residence.

    Just as she got out of the car.

    A high-grade ck umbre was held over her head.

    She looked up in surprise.

    Behind the gold-rimmed sses in the dark night were a pair of warm, shallow eyes.

    Lu Yanming gave a faint chuckle, his toneining but exceptionally rxed. "Angry with me? Deliberatelying home sote."

    Her little calction was seen through in one line, and Li Zhen didn''t bother to hide it either. She simply said, "Mr. Lu, we aren''t what you think. It wasn''t right for you to..."

    "Wasn''t right for me to what?" Lu Yanming gently interrupted, his expression still calm. "Zhen Zhen, you wouldn''t have taken me as a man, yet be unwilling to give me the status..."

    Li Zhen''s eyes widened. The sudden usation flustered her. "Mr. Lu, that marriage certificate was only to help you..."

    "Then you taking my first time, was that also to help me? And pestering me for it every night after we married, was that to help me too?" Lu Yanming''s low voice was deep and unhurried. "Zhen Zhen, a night''s husband and wife, a hundred days'' grace. You ask it of me every day, yet in the end you say we''re unrted. You aren''t PUAing me, are you..."

    A huge hat dropped from the sky.

    Li Zhen was so shocked she couldn''t close her mouth.

    The next second, Lu Yanming''s eyes darkened briefly again as he sighed softly, "I just wanted your best friends to know of my existence today, yet you gave me the cold shoulder and came homete..."

    The rain grew heavier.

    Raindrops pattered onto the umbre surface, making crisp tapping sounds.

    Lu Yanming''s voice sounded nicer than the rain, but his words left Li Zhen unable to digest them.

    The refuting words circled a few times in her mind, but his logic was simply irrefutable.

    Li Zhen suddenly started doubting herself.

    She was done for.

    Was she really PUAing Lu Yanming!

    Lu Yanming softened his tone, gently persuading amidst the rain at night, his voice low and shallow. "Taking responsibility after sleeping with someone, that makes sense, doesn''t it, Zhen Zhen?"

    Li Zhen was speechless for a long time before nodding. "It does make sense, but..."

    "It makes sense, and that''s the logic." Lu Yanming took her hand and led her into the residential area.

    The light rain continued to fall. Originally a bit cool, but Li Zhen''s hand was firmly held in Lu Yanming''s, and warmth slowly seeped into her.

    Li Zhen''s mind short-circuited for a bit.

    But after walking a few steps, she suddenly felt something was off.

    She stopped abruptly, frowning. "Mr. Lu! You''ve been strange these two days. I feel you''re implicitly PUAing me."

    Asking about having a child together.

    Publicly announcing to her friends.

    And now insinuating she should take responsibility after sleeping with someone.

    Li Zhen''s heart thumped wildly. "Mr. Lu, don''t tell me you''ve taken a liking to me and want to seduce me into bing your wife!"

    Lu Yanming chuckled. "I''ve been so obvious, yet you just noticed?"

    "Mr. Lu, I don''t have any such thoughts..." Li Zhen was shocked, her bright eyescking confidence as she subconsciously took two steps back, exposing herself to the rain.

    It was a defensive, instinctive movement.

    Lu Yanming''s eyes darkened for a fleeting moment.

    He reached out his arm to hold the umbre over her head. Raindrops instantly drenched his neat, crisp bangs. "Just joking..."

    Li Zhen''s heart suddenly rxed in an instant.

    But the next second, Lu Yanming stepped forward under the umbre to lean closer to her and kissed her.

    It was a long, gentle kiss.

    Beneath the sound of rain, it seemed even more tender and clingy.

    Lu Yanming felt indescribably sour in his heart. Sincere words dismissed as a joke when spoken aloud.

    His other hand sped her wrist, still red from Yu Sheng squeezing it today, and gently caressed it.

    Lu Yanming released the breathless Li Zhen and embraced her. He murmured, "Zhen Zhen, what should I do? Can you take even one step towards me?"

    His voice was too soft, blending into the rain.

    But Li Zhen''s thoughts had wandered far away.

    She had only taken that half step back because she was too shocked.

    Shocked that she actually didn''t dislike Lu Yanming''s words, and for a brief moment, even entertained the possibility of spending their whole lives together.

    Could it be that after living together day and night for so long, she had already grown ustomed to his existence?

    The next day, Lu Yanming didn''t ask the chefs toe over.

    In the afternoon, he took Li Zhen in the car to the supermarket to buy groceries.

    At home, Lu Yanming pushed Li Zhen out of the kitchen. "The kitchen fumes are too heavy, unsuitable for girls."

    Li Zhen could only sit at the dining table outside the door and watch him. "Fine, since it was you who asked them toe, you should be the one to tire yourself out anyway."

    Lu Yanmingughed lightly, not bothering to refute.

    He was skilled in the kitchen, as if he could do anything innately. Cool and collected at thepany, and neat and tidy at home.

    Li Zhen leaned her head on one hand, watching him intently for a time, unexpectedly enthralled.

 Chapter 146: This Is Their Home

    <h4>Chapter 146</h4>

    There was a knock at the door, and Li Zhen got up to answer it.

    She opened the door, and four people carrying gifts squeezed in.

    "Little Zhen Zhen, we''re here!"

    "President Lu, sorry for the intrusion, sorry for the intrusion..."

    "Hello, President Lu."

    As they greeted each other, they put down their things.

    Lu Yanming''s tall figure was dressed in casual clothes. His lean waist was tied with an apron, and his sleeves were rolled up, revealing his strong arms and the faint blue veins on them.

    "Make yourselves at home, there''s fruit on the coffee table," Lu Yanming said lightly with a nce at Li Zhen. "Zhen Zhen, you don''t need to keep mepany here. Go chat with your friends in the living room."

    Lu Yanming''s aura as a family man oozed out. Zhang Xiya and Qiao Yi looked at each other, both surprised in their eyes.

    The usually unapproachable vice president at thepany was now wearing an apron in front of them. It was so surreal!

    The coffee table was full of fruit.

    Zhang Xiya ate an apple nonchntly, but her eyes kept ncing at the kitchen. She nudged Li Zhen and whispered mysteriously, "Little Zhen Zhen, does President Lu cook at home often? Or is it just because we''re here..."

    Li Zhen shrugged. "He''s always like this, and that''s not all..."

    "Not all? What do you mean?" Qiao Yi asked curiously, leaning forward.

    Li Zhen thought for a moment. "Besides cooking, he also cleans the house every day, washes and hangs the clothes, then puts them away neatly..."

    "What a perfect man! Is President Lu an alien?!" Zhang Xiya eximed in surprise.

    Meng Yuanjie gave a thumbs up. "No alien! President Lu is just an ordinary abalone prince who fell to the mortal realm..."

    Li Zhen thought, that''s all it takes to impress them?

    Lu Yanming also squeezes toothpaste for her every morning and leaves it on the sink.

    Before she takes a bath at night, he runs her a hot bath.

    After making love, he holds her in his arms and cleans her thoroughly in the bathroom...

    "So how did you and President Lu get married? When did you get married?" Meng Yuanjie''s gossiping eyes shone as he peeled and offered lychee flesh to Li Zhen.

    They all knew Li Zhen loved lychees. Li Zhen instinctively reached for it, but the pungent smell hit her stomach and a wave of nausea rushed up. "Ugh..."

    Meng Yuanjie sniffed it curiously. "Is it rotten? It doesn''t seem like it..."

    "The fruit isn''t rotten, I just haven''t been feeling welltely." Li Zhen suppressed the nauseous feeling in her stomach andined, "I get tired and sleepy easily. It must be because I haven''t exercised in a long time..."

    Zhang Xiya nodded while nibbling on an apple. "Yeah, I feel like you''ve lost weight recently."

    Meng Yuanjie didn''t notice anything wrong either.

    But Qiao Yi''s brows furrowed slightly as she murmured, "Sleepy, nauseous?"

    Li Zhen froze.

    Li Zhen was usually carefree and didn''t think much of it, but when Qiao Yi said it, she suddenly felt something was off.

    Li Zhen stood up abruptly.

    Could it be...

    Pregnant?

    Lu Yanming came out of the kitchen and casually untied his apron. "Zhen Zhen, I forgot to buy tomatoes this morning. I''ll go out to get some now."

    "I''ll go!" Li Zhen suddenly yelled, then realized she overreacted and lowered her voice, "President Lu, I''ll go buy them."

    She desperately wanted to go to the hospital now!

    Lu Yanming looked at her amusedly. "Even friends visiting gets you enthusiastic about housework now."

    Li Zhen''s heart pounded wildly and she felt a little guilty. "Yes, I should do my share of work too."

    "I''ll go with you since you can''t drive anyway." Zhang Xiya stood up.

    Li Zhen was anxious inside. She had trouble putting on her shoes properly and it took her several tries.

    Lu Yanming stood at the door, watching her calmly.

    Just as Li Zhen was about to leave, Lu Yanming suddenly spoke up, "Zhen Zhen..."

    "Hmm?" Li Zhen looked back. A few strands of hair disobediently fluttered by her eyes due to her nervousness.

    Lu Yanming''s tall figure strode up to her in a few steps. He smoothed her hair and looked straight into her eyes with his own prating ones. "Come back soon after buying it, Zhen Zhen."

    Li Zhen held his gaze for a few seconds.

    Could she really be pregnant?

    Would she have a baby with genes as excellent as this man before her?

    Li Zhen broke eye contact and pulled Zhang Xiya out the door, throwing back, "Alright, President Lu."

    Li Zhen''s heart beat faster and faster. As soon as she and Zhang Xiya got in the car, she urged, "Xiya, hurry hurry hurry, to the hospital!"

    Zhang Xiya was confused. "Weren''t we going to the supermarket for tomatoes?"

    Although puzzled, Zhang Xiya drove straight to the hospital anyway.

    Li Zhen was nervous inside, her voice trembling slightly. "Xiya, I might be pregnant..."

    Zhang Xiya choked on her breath. "What! Pregnant!"

    "Just might be. I need to get checked at the hospital now."

    As soon as Zhang Xiya heard that, she floored the gas pedal.

    The hospital was close to Huayang Famous Residence, and they arrived in a few minutes.

    Half an hourter, Li Zhen got her test results.

    She stared nkly for a few seconds.

    Zhang Xiya peeked over. "What''s it say, what''s it say? What are the results?"

    Li Zhen looked at Zhang Xiya quietly, her bright eyes full of joy. "Xiya! I''m going to have a baby now! Not only that, I just became a little rich woman!"

    She could get the Yu Family shares now!

    Nearly 10 million a year.

    Her maneuvering these past two months was so worth it. Getting what she had been wishing and thinking about day and night had finallye true.

    Especially when she thought about how shocked and angry Li Yanran and her mother would be when they found out, Li Zhen was extremely excited.

    Zhang Xiya waspletely dumbfounded.

    She just found out yesterday that Li Zhen got married, and today she''s already pregnant?

    Why does little Zhen Zhen always drop such huge bombshells!

    Too much to react to all at once!

    Worried about counting chickens before they hatch, Li Zhen tried her best to calm down. She wanted to call Li Yinnan and get the shares today.

    But when she felt for her phone...

    In her hurry to leave, she forgot it.

    She borrowed Zhang Xiya''s phone and called Li Yinnan. "Dad, the share transfer agreement is ready. I''ming over now."

    Li Yinnan was clearly stunned for a few seconds. "Zhen''er, you''re pregnant?"

    "Yes, I''d like to sign the agreement today."

    "Of course, that''s fine."

    Li Yinnan immediately got up from the poker table. "Gentlemen, apologies, but my daughter is pregnant at home. I have to go back and check on her."

    Everyone at the poker table was Li Yinnan''s business partner. They naturally knew the only married daughter who could be pregnant was Li Zhen, wife of the Yu Family''s eldest son. Hearing this, they didn''t dare keep him and immediately congratted him.

    "Congrattions, President Li!"

    "Now that Li Zhen carries the Yu Family''s flesh and blood, they will firmly support the Li Family."

    "When President Li is prosperous in the future, don''t forget about us!"

    "Hahaha, let''s cooperate more in the future for mutual benefit..." Li Yinnan was in a great mood.

    He didn''t dally and immediately headed home.

    Outside the Li Family mansion, Zhang Xiya parked the car.

    She looked up at the majestic vi in surprise. "Little Zhen Zhen, this is your family? And you still work so hard to earn money!"

    Li Zhen walked in lightly, indifferent. "Wrong, this isn''t my family...this is theirs. I''m just here to pick something up."

    Zhang Xiya was confused but didn''t ask further.

    Just as they were about to enter the vi, Li Zhen''s footsteps suddenly stopped as she looked down at her belly.

    It was a strange feeling.

    It was as if she could feel his breathing, blending with her heartbeat.

    Li Zhen took a deep breath and stepped into the vi.

    In the great hall, Li Yanran was ying the piano. Catching Li Zhen bringing in a strange woman from the corner of her eye, she immediately stood up. "Li Zhen! What are you doing here!"

    Li Zhen nced at her lightly. "Mind your own business!"

    Before the official share transfer agreement was signed, Li Zhen didn''t want anyplications.

    "Zhen''er..." Li Yinnan''s cheerful voice came from the entrance. He only looked at Li Zhen and said, "Come, let''s go to the study."

    Li Zhen told Zhang Xiya to wait for her and went upstairs with Li Yinnan.

    Li Yanran hurriedly caught up to Li Yinnan and grabbed his arm. "Dad, what''s so important that you and sister have to discuss alone?"

    Usually Li Yinnan would scold her for being nosy.

    But today he was in a great mood and just chuckled loudly, "I''m transferring shares to Zhen''er. Of course we have to go to the study."

    Li Yanran was struck by lightning. Her feet froze in ce as she cried, "What! Transfer shares?!"

 Chapter 147: Lesson Enough

    <h4>Chapter 147</h4>

    Li Yanran angrily pointed at Li Zhen and yelled, "Dad, why! You didn''t even give me any shares when I got engaged!"

    Li Zhen calmly reminded, "Dad, let''s sign the agreement first. It''s gettingte, I still have to go home for dinner."

    From suspecting pregnancy at home, to confirming it at the hospital, toing to the Li family, Li Zhen hurried as fast as she could without wasting a single second.

    Now that they had reached the final step of signing the agreement, Li Zhen was even more nervous.

    Li Yinnan naturally assumed Li Zhen''s "home" to be Jinluyuanmunity, "Alright, it is gettingte, let''s go upstairs."

    "Dad!" Li Yanran shouted twice.

    But Li Yinnanpletely ignored her.

    Li Yanran panicked.

    How could this be? She hadn''t obtained any shares from the Li family yet Li Zhen was about to!

    Zhang Xiya sat smugly on the sofa, shooting a fleeting nce at Li Yanran. In her heart she ridiculed, this woman is acting like a lunatic.

    Zhang Xiya received a message on her phone, it was from Qiao Yi, [President Lu is asking where you guys are, you''ve been gone for so long and it''s almost dark.]

    Zhang Xiya looked upstairs, she didn''t know how much longer Li Zhen would be busy up there.

    Zhang Xiya: [I got lost driving, we''ll be a littlete...]

    Qiao Yi: [Send your location, President Lu said he''lle pick you up.]

    Zhang Xiya: [No need, no need, we''ll be there soon!]

    Li Yanran red at Zhang Xiya ying on her phone on the sofa. She went out to the balcony to get away from her and made a call, "Mom, Dad wants to give Li Zhen shares! Dad wants to give that bitch shares!"

    On the other end of the phone, Lin Zhiyin fiddled with her Buddhist prayer beads, "Yanran don''t panic, speak slowly."

    Li Yanran anxiously and angrily recounted what had just happened.

    "Yanran, your father''s only connection with her could be because of one person." Lin Zhiyin was silent for two seconds before speaking again. Her dignified voice waspletely t as she gently said, "But she came alone today, something seems off."

    Li Yanran instantly understood. That''s right!

    Her father''s recent intimacy towards Li Zhen could only be for one reason, it could only be because of Yu Sheng.

    But Li Zhen and Yu Sheng recently divorced and were having a spat.

    Maybe Li Zhen was hiding something from Yu Sheng!

    Li Yanran was extremely excited by this possibility. She hurriedly called Yu Sheng.

    "Ding dong..."

    Yu Yang impatiently rang the ironwork gate bell beside the garden.

    Wu Ma hurried out from the vi and opened the door, anxiously saying, "Young Master Yu..."

    Yu Yang strode in, "What happened to my brother?!"

    "I don''t know, I don''t know either..." Wu Ma was at a loss.

    Yesterday Yu Sheng hade home very early and asked her to bring wine upstairs.

    After bringing it up, Wu Ma went back to her room to sleep.

    Yu Sheng usually woke up early on weekends, and would often go to thepany to work overtime. She assumed Yu Sheng had gone to thepany early today as well. But when Wu Ma went upstairs in the evening, she discovered that Yu Sheng was still at home with empty wine bottles scattered all over the floor.

    She had never seen him in such a decadent state before, it frightened her and she hurriedly called Yu Yang.

    Yu Yang went upstairs and pushed open the door. A strong smell of alcohol rushed out.

    The curtains were not drawn and the room was dim.

    Yu Sheng was sitting on the floor leaning against the bed frame, one long leg bent with his elbow resting on it holding a bottle of wine. His hair was disheveled.

    His eyes were devoid of any vitality, with wine bottles strewn all over the expensive Persian rug.

    Yu Yang felt a sudden tightness in his chest. He strode over, "Bro, what''s wrong with you? Why are you like this?!"

    "She wanted me to see this too...what I look like now..." Yu Sheng''s mind was muddled from the alcohol, his dark eyes unable to focus steadily. "Yu Yang, what do I look like now?"

    From yesterday until tonight, he would drink until he fell asleep, then wake up and drink again.

    No matter how much he drank, his mind remained clear and he could vividly remember Li Zhen saying "we have no further ties"...

    "Why can''t I think clearly after drinking so much?" Yu Sheng mumbled as he casually tossed the wine bottle on the ground.

    The bottle rolled twice on the expensive Persian rug before stopping not far away.

    "Bro, tell me what you''re trying to figure out, alright?" Yu Yang''s heart ached.

    Yu Sheng stood up, his tall figure seemed immovable like a mountain in the dark, shrouded in clouds.

    He paced to the window, his steps steady, showing no signs of someone who had been drinking all day and night.

    As he drew open the curtains, the golden evening light and breeze squeezed into the room together.

    Yu Sheng didn''t make a sound. Yu Yang grew even more concerned, "Bro..."

    "I should have lowered my head earlier, I shouldn''t have brought up divorce..." Yu Sheng looked out towards thekeside.

    Yu Sheng spoke vaguely, but Yu Yang instantly understood. "Bro, is this about sister-inw?"

    "Of course, these past few years, everything I did was for her." Yu Sheng gazed into the distance, his voice slightly hoarse from the alcohol.

    Yu Yang listened painfully. His brother had to take over Yu''spany right after graduating, standing at the top of Jin City''s food chain. He could summon the wind and rain as he pleased. Yet for Li Zhen, he defied his mother and had to struggle to prove that Li Zhen was not a burden to him.

    But what a woman wanted and what a man gave perhaps had never aligned since ancient times.

    Did they have another fight recently! How did things get to this point!

    Yu Sheng took out his phone and declined Li Yanran''s incessant calls.

    He scrolled down and realized it had been a long time since he contacted Li Zhen.

    Finding Li Zhen''s number, he called it.

    Huayang Famous Residence.

    As dusk fell, the rippling river water outside the floor-to-ceiling windows was dyed a brilliant golden hue.

    Lu Yanming had prepared a table full of dishes and was currently sitting on the sofa watching TV with Qiao Yi and Meng Yuanjie.

    The atmosphere was not very harmonious.

    Qiao Yi and Meng Yuanjie exchanged a look.

    Li Zhen didn''t bring her phone and Zhang Xiya seemed to be intentionally dying her return with vague messages.

    From Qiao Yi and Meng Yuanjie''s perspective, perhaps the two just saw something fun on the way back which was why they werete. After all, they were both adults, there was no need to keep asking about it. Plus, it wasn''t evenpletely dark out yet, it wasn''t that big of a deal.

    But President Lu seemed especially worried and had already asked them to inquire with Zhang Xiya several times.

    Lu Yanming drank a ss of water, his throat moving slightly as he nced at Qiao Yi''s phone again.

    Qiao Yi instantly understood. She quickly said, "President Lu, Xiya said the car needed gas again and it might be a little while longer..."

    Before Qiao Yi could finish speaking, the phone Li Zhen had forgotten to take on the coffee table suddenly lit up with an iing call from an unsaved number.

    Qiao Yi was closest to the phone so she declined the call.

    The number immediately called back right away.

    Usually, it was fine for Qiao Yi and the others to casually help answer Li Zhen''s phone if she was upied. Worried it might be an emergency, Qiao Yi picked up and put it on speaker.

    A hoarse voice sounded from the other end, "Li Zhen..."

    This voice was like thunder.

    It exploded in the previously quiet living room.

    Meng Yuanjie''s gaze instantly shifted to Lu Yanming.

    Qiao Yi''s whole body tensed up, and she reached to hang up in the next second.

    But before her hand even made it halfway, Lu Yanming''s long, straight fingers had already grabbed the phone.

    In the phone, a voice very familiar to everyone spoke again, slightly hoarse but with a deep, mellow texture.

    "Li Zhen, these past couple of days, I''ve figured out a lot."

    "From now on, I won''t work anymore. I''ll just stay home with you. My venture capital investments make a few billion in dividends each year for now, but that''s enough for us to get by."

    "If you want to enter the entertainment industry, I''ll find you resources. If you want to be a housewife, I''ll go grocery shopping and cook with you."

    "The lesson you taught me this time is already enough. You know I learn quickly..."

    The person on the other end paused for two seconds, his voice slightly hoarse. "Li Zhen, we should remarry."

 Chapter 148: Too Much to Be Ashamed of

    <h4>Chapter 148</h4>

    Qiao Yi''s hand was still suspended in midair. If it weren''t for Lu Yanming''s existence, she might have even been moved by Yu Sheng''s words. Every sentence was genuine and heartfelt. Every sentence showed it came from the bottom of his heart. But now Li Zhen already had Lu Yanming...

    Qiao Yi retracted her hand frozen in midair, and secretly nced at Lu Yanming. Lu Yanming was leaning backfortably into the sofa holding his phone, his posture noble, and he let out a short, mockingugh, "President Yu, what were you saying just now? I didn''t quite catch that."

    Silence on the other end.

    Lu Yanming nced at the darkening light outside, a cold gleam under the gold wire-rimmed sses, his tone casual and indifferent, "My wife went out to buy deer tendon for me. If President Yu has something to say, I can pass it on."

    Qiao Yi and Meng Yuanjie looked at each other, neither daring to breathe a word. President Lu was tantly provoking President Yu!

    Two seconds of silence on the other end.

    Then came a low, sinister coldugh.

    Laughing was much more frightening than notughing at all.

    Yu Sheng squeezed out three words from his throat, syble by syble, "Lu. Yan. Ming?"

    "That''s me, Zhen Zhen''s husband, herwful partner written on our marriage certificate," Lu Yanming''s soft facial contours were now sharp and keen. "President Yu, I deeply regret that I''m only formally introducing myself to you today."

    "After all, Zhen Zhen and I have been married for 52 days already."

    Li Yanran gave a coldugh as she hung up the phone.

    She had been calling Yu Sheng but he hadn''t been picking up. It wasn''t until Yu Sheng seemed to have been on a very long call that his line was busy.

    After he finished that call, he finally answered hers.

    She simply and directly told him that Li Zhen hade to the Li family home today, and something fishy was going on. He shoulde take a look.

    Li Yanran called Lin Zhiyin again when she saw Li Zhen and Li Yinnaning downstairs. Only then did she hurriedly return from the balcony to the living room.

    Li Zhen was holding a share transfer agreement. It was now in effect, so whether the final change procedures were fast or slow wouldn''t impact the oue anymore.

    She was in good spirits, even walking with a slight bounce. But remembering there was still a baby in her belly, she carefully slowed her steps.

    Li Yinnan watched with amusement and gently said, "Zhen''er is truly bing a mother. For the child, you know to be careful and cautious now."

    Li Zhen gave Li Yinnan a fleeting nce, not wanting to talk to him.

    From now on, she didn''t want too much interaction with Li Yinnan.

    Li Yanran''s pupils quivered as she stood up abruptly from the living room sofa, "What, Li Zhen is pregnant?!"

    Li Yinnan lightly scolded, "How can you address someone like that? Call her sister, or your brother-inw will think our family has no etiquette if he hears."

    Li Yanran shouted, "But...but Dad! Li Zhen and Brother Yu are already divorced. They''ve been separated for some time now. How could Li Zhen have gotten pregnant?!"

    Li Zhen thought this was bad.

    How did Li Yanran know about her divorce from Yu Sheng!

    Li Yinnan''s brows furrowed deeply. "Zhen''er, is this true or false?"

    He didn''t quite believe it. His intuition told him Yu Sheng''s attitude toward Li Zhen didn''t seem like one of divorce.

    The abnormal atmosphere made Zhang Xiya aware something was off. She immediately stood up and walked worriedly toward Li Zhen.

    "Li Yanran, what nonsense are you spewing? How could I possibly divorce Yu Sheng?" Li Zhen tightened her grip on the contract in her hand and calmly walked toward Zhang Xiya.

    She had painstakingly schemed for two months. Now she just needed to ensure the safety of this contract and prevent Li Yinnan from reacting and forcibly taking it back.

    She could stop hiding her divorce from Yu Shengter on, but not right now!

    She knew they might not be able to stall for even a few minutes, but a few minutes was enough for the contract to be secured.

    Li Zhen seemingly casually stuffed the contract into Zhang Xiya''s bag, speaking fast and low, "Take this chance to leave. You must hold onto the contract."

    Zhang Xiya gave a slight nod, her heart racing rapidly. The situation seemed even worse than it appeared.

    Li Yanran''s gaze remained fixed on the contract. "Li Zhen, are you trying to let..."

    Li Zhen quickly walked up to Li Yanran and pped her hard across the face. "You directly call me Li Zhen? What did Lin Zhiyin teach you! Don''t you know how to call me sister?!"

    Li Yanran clutched her face. The p had abruptly jolted her train of thought. "Li Zhen! You, you hit me..."

    "That''s right, I hit you! Weren''t you calling me sister so sweetly when you slipped me drugs that day! Two-faced schemer, you deserved this p!" Li Zhen scolded while keeping the corner of her eye on Zhang Xiya.

    Taking advantage of everyone''s attention being on Li Zhen, Zhang Xiya slowly made her way out and finally ran off.

    Li Yinnan was sessfully led astray by Li Zhen''s words to focus on another point. "Ran''er! You slipped your sister drugs? How could you do something like this! Do you know how serious the consequences would be if your brother-inw found out?!"

    Li Yanran gritted her teeth. "Li Zhen, you clearly said you wouldn''t bring up this matter again if I gave you the password to the house!"

    Li Yinnan: ......

    Why did Li Zhen want the password to the house?

    What on earth was going on with his two daughters?!

    "Sorry, I just can''t trust two-faced tea girls. Don''t use morals to bind me!" Li Zhen shrugged indifferently, the bright eyes still carrying a cold smile. "I have no morals when ites to you, so don''t expect me to be bound by morals!"

    Li Yanran was furious to the point of dying.

    Zhang Xiya had already been gone for a while. Li Zhen didn''t want to keep entangling with the Li family anymore and lifted her foot to leave.

    But her path was blocked by a figure.

    Lin Zhiyin, dressed in elegant in colored silks, was refined and graceful. Raising her eyes slightly, her gentle gaze fell upon Li Zhen. "Zhen''er, it''s been a long time."

    It really had been a long time.

    Li Zhen looked coldly at Lin Zhiyin.

    Lin Zhiyin was always at the Buddhist temple at Longquan Mountain. She had rarely stayed at the Li house in recent years, onlying back for important matters asionally.

    Li Zhen certainly hadn''t expected Lin Zhiyin toe back today.

    Li Zhen casually ridiculed, "Lin Zhiyin, have you struck the wooden fish enough in recent years? Done too many shady things, so umting virtues through good deeds doesn''te easy?"

    Li Yanran immediately bristled, "Li Zhen! Don''t talk to my mother like that!"

    "Zhen''er still speaks so directly. It shows life hasn''t worn down her sharp edges yet, very good." A loving smile graced Lin Zhiyin''s face. Time had not left any marks on her face, only a mature woman''s charm.

    Li Zhen only felt Lin Zhiyin''s act was truly tiring. "Thanks, I''ll take that as praise. Since the pleasantries are over, please make way now..."

    The door to the Li family vi was wide open.

    Li Zhen skirted around Lin Zhiyin standing at the entrance.

    Lin Zhiyin gently said, "Zhen''er, wait a moment..."

    The next second, several brawny men blocked the doorway, once again obstructing Li Zhen''s path.

    Li Zhen''s brows slightly creased as she turned to face Lin Zhiyin directly. "What are you waiting for? If it''s for you to transcend the mortal world on a crane, I''d be happy to wait."

    "Zhen''er, you should also speak more gently in the future. After all, you''re about to be a mother. You need to teach by example for your child. Also, too much anger is bad for the unborn baby." Lin Zhiyin''s voice was gentle and affectionate as her fingertips lightly caressed the Buddhist prayer beads.

    Then, she serenely looked behind Li Zhen.

    "Little Yu, you agree don''t you?"

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