ã€ŠFlash Marriage: The Domineering Wifeã€‹


 Chapter 1 Hates her life

    Yan Mei stared blindly at herputer screen. She squeezed her eyes shut, drew in a long breath, and tried to release tension as she exhaled. Opening her eyes, she couldn''t help but nce at the wall clock.

    Nine o''clock. Yan Mei knew her grandfather would worry about her workingte, but it was the only way for her to shut herself from the outside world and pretend that she was okay.

    Yan Mei stood up restlessly and went to the window that overlooked the street.

    "Damn him!" she said out loud. The intensity in her voice shocked her. It''s been five years since everything happened, but she will never forget the scene of the night she lost everything. Her fingers clenched into a fist, trying to hold back her emotions.

    The trauma of having her entire universe crumble down had been too much for her to handle.

    If not for the therapy sessions and the support of her father, maybe she would havemitted suicide a long time ago.

    Shutting her eyes and taking a deep breath, just like her therapist had taught her, she looked at her reflection in the ss window and smiled. Her smile did not reach her eyes, but no one would notice If they were around.

    "I''m okay. See, I''m still alive, and that is the most important thing," Yan Mei murmured.

    She doesn''t remember how it started, but anytime she would remember what happened and got depressed, she would take a deep breath and smile. As if her smile could solve everything.

    She walked back to her desk and shut herputer off. Picking up her purse, she left the building of the multibillion-dorpany that she owns.

    Sitting in the Audi A3, Yan Mei didn''t immediately start the car. She felt lonely and depressed tonight. She had worked her ass off this past couple of years to distract herself, but she continued to feel empty. Now, this emptiness was consuming her. Tonight, she will allow herself to be Feng Mei for once.

    "Wish me luck, Love," she whispered as she stared up to the sky as if she was talking to someone up there and started her car.

    *****

    It was Friday night, and the club was full of many people. Lei Zhao kind of figured that it would be on a Friday night. Just as he was about to enter the club, he bumped into someone.

    "I''m sorry," a mellow voice said in front of Lei Zhao. Raising his head, he sucked in a deep breath as he stared at the woman in front of him.

    Everything about her redefined perfection. She was not wearing a sexy outfit or a short dress; she was wearing the exact opposite, a business suit.

    Lei Zhao never knew a business suit could make a woman this beautiful and sexy.

    Yan Mei felt self-conscious as he stared at her without blinking his eyes. She raised her eyebrows as she looked at him. He was handsome; he had this elegant and noble appearance, and hismanding presence made it difficult for people to ignore him.

    "Beautiful," Lei Zhao whispered.

    "Pardon?" Yan Mei asked confusingly. ''Why was this man behaving so strangely?'' she thought to herself.

    Realizing that his actions were weird, even to himself, Lei Zhao awkwardlyughed.

    "Sorry, I was asking if you''re okay."

    "I''m fine and sorry once again," Yan Mei said as she bowed and turned away. She then walked inside the club,pletely ignoring him.

    Lei Zhao stared at her back. He didn''t believe in love at first sight. But for the first time in two years since his girlfriend left him and his brother died, Lei Zhao just found another woman attractive. Can that be because he has been celibate for too long, and now his hormones are acting up?

    He shook his head as he entered the club.

    -IN THE CLUB-

    "So, the prodigal son isn''t horny again tonight?" Lei Zhao shrugged when he heard what his friend, Henry Liu, had said. He has been too busy the past few years, even to find a woman sexually attractive.

    He has invested everything into his work because he wanted to make his brother proud of him.

    Ever since his brother died, he knew that he couldn''t be as carefree as he used to be. He had hated his brother for leaving him alone in this world. His brother had promised to always be there for him, but because of a girl, he died. Was the girl more important than him? He has wanted revenge on the girl and has been searching for her for years, but it is like she never existed.

    Henry Liu gave him a friendly punch to the arm. Bringing him back to the present as he said, "Man, that is the third chick you turned down today. You keep looking around as if you''re looking for someone. What is wrong with you?"

    Lei Zhao was toozy to talk to him. He thought once he sees other girls, his hormones would kick in, but no girl has excited him like the woman he met at the entrance. Now he is bent on finding her, but he can''t even see her shadow, is like everything was an illusion,

    "Check that out, man f **K!". Henry Liu eximed as he let out a high-pitched whistle.

    On the dance floor was the woman he had met at the entrance. She was in her little world as she had her eyes closed and seemed lost in the lyrics and rhythm of the song. Dancing in a suit will look weird, but no-no actually, it was the hottest thing he has seen in years.

    She had let down her hair, put on her red lipstick, and opened a few of her buttons, showing her off a bit of cleavage. To drive you insane. It makes you want to open all the buttons and unlock the mystery hiding in that suit.

    She raised her lips in a sly smile when she opened her eyes and saw him staring at her. Holding his gaze, she offered a close-mouthed smile that appeared highly seductively.

    Lei Zhao knew right that he had sold his soul to the devil, but man, he had no regrets looking at the woman in front of him.

    Yan Mei looked at the man she met at the entrance and smirked. She saw the desire to conquer in his eyes, and she felt good about it. Even though she had gotten tons of proposals from men before, she knew they only wanted her money. But the look in this guy''s eyes was different.

    It was as if he had finally found something that he had been looking for, and now he wanted it with all his might.

    She watched in amusement as he approached her. Just as he was about to reach her, a petite blonde appeared in front of him.

    Lei Zhao frowned when he looked at the person blocking his view.

    "Hey, handsome. You want to buy me a drink?" the woman said as she batted her fake eyshes, pushing her breasts to his side.

    "No," Lei Zhao replied.

    "So cold. I like that," The woman''s tongue snaked out to touch the top of her lips.

    Lei Zhao winced. He was losing his temper. Lei Zhao didn''t understand why these types of women tried so hard, wearing these tight dresses that they can barely breathe in. He appreciates the magic effect of makeup, but using too much makes them look like clowns. He hated it.

    "Hey, babe, where have you been????

    Lei Zhao widened his eyes in surprise when he saw Yan Mei, who had ced her hands on his shoulder.

    She smiled at the dumbstruck look on Lei Zhao''s face and turned to look at the woman.

    "Miss, is there something my man can help you with?"

    Yan Mei coldly asked as she scrutinized thedy in front of her with her eyebrows hunched together. Seeing the icy demeanor of Yan Mei, thedy snorted, red at Yan Mei, and left the ce.

    "Stop looking at me like that, Weirdo," Yan Mei sarcastically said as she turned to Lei Zhao.

    "You can''t me me, right? It''s not every day that I meet such a charmingdy like you, Love." A smug smile spilled from his lips as he winked at her. Yan Mei rolled her eyes at him, ignoring his cheeky reply.

    "If you have finished your speech, Weirdo, you can buy me a drink. I just saved you from whoever that was," Yan Mei said distastefully.

    "It would be my pleasure, Love." Lei Zhao wrapped his hands around her waist and walked her to the bar counter.

    Henry Liu looked at his friend, flirting with a girl, and opened his mouth in surprise. He is shocked because ever since his brother died and his sister left him, Lei Zhao was the coldest and the most indifferent person he had ever met.

    ''So who is this person who was shamelessly flirting with a girl?'' Henry Liu shook his head helplessly as he left them alone.

    ***

    Lei Zhao looked at the woman, who was busy drinking and sighed. Since he brought her here, she haspletely ignored his existence, and all her focus was on her drink. He was questioning his charm.

    "That''s enough. You have already drunk enough," Lei Zhao said as he tried to take the ss from her hands. Yan Mei pushed his hands away as she gulped down the rest of her drink.

    "You''re supposed to apany me to drink, not stop me," a confused frown marred her forehead.

    An awkward silence fell between them. Lei Zhao said nothing as he stared at the woman sitting beside him. He knew she was hurting because he once had that look in his eyes. Suddenly he saw tears in her eyes. Lei Zhao raised his hand to wipe the tears that had fallen from her eyes.

    "You¡­ I''m not crying. Something fell into my eyes," Yan Mei said as she turned to look at Lei Zhao. "Only weak girls cry, and I''m not weak. I''m a beautiful, sessful, and happy woman," she said.

    Yan Mei erupted intoughter after she said this. It felt like she repeated a programmed message that she has embedded in her brain to keep herself stable. She poured more wine into her ss and raised it towards Lei Zhao.

    "A toast¡­ hmm ¡ª for being strong," without waiting for Lei Zhao''s response, Yan Mei drank her wine in one gulp. She looked so broken, sad, and crushed that he felt his heartache for her.

    Her shoulders slumped in defeat; he could see that she was a woman who had always acted like she was strong and would not give away the amount of pain buried inside her. But the withdrawn look in her eyes gave her away, telling an unconventional story.

    Lei Zhao looked at the woman who was drunk and sighed out loud. He didn''t even have time to ask her what her name is or where she stays.

    He guessed that she would have to stay with him tonight. He called his friend to look after her as he went outside to call his driver. Just as he was about to enter the club again, he heard his phone ring. Looking at the caller ID, he groaned in annoyance. He knew his mother wouldin to him about not bringing a wife home yet. Running a frustrated hand in his hair, he picked up the phone.

    "Mom¡­"

    If Lei Zhao knew that picking up the call would make him miss his little temptress, he would have never picked it up.

 Chapter 2 The night is still young

    On thest floor of Yan Corporation, Yan Mei looked at the nervous executives andzily picked up the file on her table.

    The meeting room was as quiet as a cemetery. In front of Yan Mei were several trembling executives from Yan''s group.

    These executives had an average of 10 million USD in worth, yet they did not dare utter a sound because their CEO, famously known as the reincarnated devil, was in front of them.

    Yan Mei heldst month''s sales report in her hand. Her indifferent eyes nced at the executives.

    She flipped through the documentzily; her face devoid of any emotions. No one knew if she was satisfied with the report or not. One mistake could make you lose your job, and it made everyone cautious about how they worked. Even though their boss could be cold and scary, she would give the best bonuses, and she treated her workers well.

    "Why haven''t we secured the deal with Green Corporation yet?" Yan Mei put down the file and inquired.

    "Well¡­" The executives looked at each other in embarrassment and were hesitant to speak.

    "What?" she asked impatiently.

    "Well, it seems like quite a fewpanies also want the deal, so they are a little hesitant to give the deal to us."

    Yan Mei''s eyes glistened with anger. "So you''re telling me that the special team you created, whom we are paying thrice the sry of an ordinary worker, cannot close a simple deal? When did mypany hire such ipetent workers?"

    "President Yan¡­"

    "Fire the special team and find me apetent team to get this deal secured. Manager Lu, you are now in charge of this deal. I hope that you do not disappoint me."

    Without waiting for their answer, she left the conference room. The executives breathed a sigh of relief. Her aura was too strong for them. ''How could a woman be so intimidating?''

    Several managers gave Manager Lu a confused look. They didn''t know whether to congratte him. Given a task by the irondy is moreplicated than a military mission, but once theypleted it, she heavily rewarded them¡ªone reason Yan Mei''s workers liked her and never thought of betraying her throughout the years.

    For a woman to build her ownpany in three years, they knew it was difficult. Either she has a great backup, or she is just outstanding. That is why Yan Mei''s workers admired, fear, and worshipped her. Manager Lu sighed.

    As soon as Yan Mei entered her office, a beautiful woman followed her. This woman was Su Bei. She was Yan Mei''s secretary and the only friend she had in City S.

    "Someone seems angry."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes when she heard Su Bei.

    "What is next on my schedule," Yan Mei asked, ignoring her.

    "Well, you''re supposed to go on a date with Fang Yan this evening at the Imperial Hotel," Su Bei reported as she stared at her friend.

    Even though they were close, Su Bei never dared cross the line when they worked or took advantage of her rtionship with Yan Mei. She liked Su Bei because of this.

    "Fang Yang?" Yan Mei asked as she furrowed her brows. Fang Yang is the young master of the Fang family. He has been asking Yan Mei out for weeks, so out of annoyance, she agreed to meet him. Since she knows that if she keeps saying no to him, he would never leave her alone. Also, he was very respectful to her. No matter how many times she ignores him so she decided to give him a chance. Hopefully he doesn''t screw it and make her regret her decision.

    "Okay, anything else?" Yan Mei asked as she turned to look at Su Bei.

    "Yes. There are a few documents that need your signature," Su Bei said as she ced a pile of folders in front of Yan Mei.

    "I thought you said a few," Yan Mei said distastefully. Su Beiughed when she saw Yan Mei pouting. Everyone thought that Yan Mei was an indifferent person who had a poker face, but Su Bei knew that Yan Mei was childish. She wondered what her friend went through to make her such an aloof person.

    "Well, think about it. After today''s hard work, you will go out on a date. I know you will have fun," Su Bei said andughed.

    Yan Mei red at her. "You have much free time on your hands. Maybe I should find more work for you to do," Yan Mei said coldly. Su Bei fluttered when she saw the evil glint in Yan Mei''s eyes.

    "Madam, I forgot! I have to make some phone calls. So please, if you will excuse me, I will take my leave now," Su Bei said as she bolted the office. Yan Mei grinned when she saw her secretary running away. Putting everything behind her, she buried herself into her work.

    -IMPERIAL HOTEL-

    In the blink of an eye, it was 7 pm. Yan Mei rubbed her neck as she stepped down from her car and walked towards the hotel. She didn''t know why Fang Yan wanted to meet at a hotel, but thinking about his reputation, she felt a hotel was a safer ce since there were security measures to protect the hotel''s clients.

    Being seen with Fang Yan by the paparazzi is thest thing she wants.

    The moment Yan Mei entered the hotel, she saw a waiter waiting for her.

    "Miss Yan?" the waiter asked politely. Yan Mei nodded.

    "Please, Mr. Fang is waiting for you."

    Yan Mei followed the waiter. When they reached the box, Fang Yan was waiting. When he saw Yan Mei, he smiled and strode toward her.

    Yan Mei saw him approaching and took a step back before his hand touched her. She deftly avoided his movements.

    Fang Yan became lightly annoyed, but thinking about Yan Mei''s identity, he said nothing. The night was still young. Thinking about tonight''s n, Fang Yan smirked.

    "Miss Yan, please sit down," Fang Yan softly said as if nothing had happened.

    A waiter came to serve the moment they sat down. Looking at the ss of wine in front of her, Yan Mei squinted her eyes slightly.

    "I don''t drink alcohol," Yan Mei said coldly.

    Fang Yan listened to her calmly. He knew there was no way Yan Mei would drink alcohol with him. Thankfully, he had nned everything well.

    "So, what do you want to drink? Fruit juice?"

    "No, just a ss of water will be fine."

    Fang Yan winked at the waiter without Yan Mei noticing.

    "Get Miss Yan a ss of water," Fang Yan said to the waiter standing beside them.

 Chapter 3 Dare to drug me?

    The moment Yan Mei drank the water, she noticed that something was wrong. Water is tasteless, but this water tasted is so hot, like tequ. The moment she drank it, her body suddenly became warm, and she felt dizzy.

    "You¡­" she pinched her palm with her fingernail to stay awake. Yan Mei red at the man next to her.

    "You dare to drug me?!" Yan Mei said coldly, her body exuding a dangerous aura. Fang Yan couldn''t help but feel a sense of panic, but thinking he has drugged her, and she was weak, he suddenly rxed.

    "Miss Yan, are you not feeling well? How can I dare to drug you? If you''re not feeling well, let me take you upstairs to rest."

    ''Go upstairs? He is sending me to his bed!'' Yan Mei screamed in her head. She wanted to resist, but because she was drugged, she felt weak. Yan Mei knew that she couldn''t resist him at the moment so, she could only y along with him.

    "Okay."

    When they were about to take the elevator, Yan Mei looked behind her when she felt an ardent gaze. She furrowed her brows since the guy looked a little familiar.

    Even though Yan Mei didn''t know who he was, depending on his looks, she would rather sleep with him than this bastard.

    With the little strength that she had left, she stepped on Fang Yan''s foot with her heels and then pushed him away from her.

    He winced in pain, "Bitch!"

    Because Fang Yan was nervous and was waiting for the elevator to open, he didn''t pay attention to Yan Mei. He knew that she was already weak, and there was nothing she can do.

    Yan Mei ignored him as she ran towards Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao raised his brows when he saw the woman running towards him. He had been searching for her, but who would have thought he would meet her here. Only God knew how angry he was when he saw that man wrap his hands around her waist. He wanted to break every single bone in the man''s body.

    He had met her once, so he didn''t know why he was having these possessive thoughts. Maybe he had already identified her as his woman.

    Because Yan Mei was weak, she slipped and fell into Lei Zhao''s arms. A scent of mint drifted into her nose.

    "I''m sorry," Yan Mei quickly apologized. She immediately took a step back. She raised her head and looked at the man in front of her. Her original cloudy eyes instantly became sober.

    The man was wearing a simple white shirt with a few buttons open. He had that appearance that made him stand out in a crowd. His unfathomable cynical eyes contrasted exceptionally with his well-built face. His eyes were deep and expressive, which someone could get lost in if they stared for too long.

    She could see a hint of pain in his glowing eye, which suddenly disappeared as it emerged.

    "Um¡­ can you help me?" Yan Mei braced herself and grasped Lei Zhao''s shirt with thest strength she had left.

    Lei Zhao looked down at Yan Mei, holding his shirt, and looked at her helplessness and stubborn eyes.

    A glint of light passed through his eyes. He crouched down and picked Yan Mei up with both of his arms.

    Fang Yan looked at the man who was carrying Yan Mei in his arms and frowned.

    "You¡­ Who are you? If you don''t want to get hurt, put the woman down!"

    Fang Yan roared as he angrily strode towards Lei Zhao. He couldn''t let someone disrupt his n that took months to sort out. As long as he slept with Yan Mei, he would ask her to marry him with the media''s help.

    He didn''t think the famous irondy of the business empire would say no if the media knew that she had an affair with him. Herpany''s sales would plummet, giving her no choice, but to marry him, he would eventually take thepany from her hands.

    Such a perfect n. How could Fang Yan let a stranger destroy months of his hard work?

    Lei Zhao indifferently nced at him as if the mere sight of him would stain his eyes.

    Ye Xing looked disdainfully at Fang Yan.

    "You''re not qualified to know who he is. Today you touched someone who you shouldn''t have touched," Ye Xing said coldly.

    Without waiting for Fang Yan to speak, he kicked him. Fang Yan wailed in pain, confused because he was not Ye Xing''s opponent. However, he called out to his bodyguards, who were hiding in the shadows. All of them were holding knives as they approached Ye Xing.

    Ye Xing looked at them disdainfully, as if he was watching ants. Ye Xing felt that these people should be happy to be getting a beating from him today. It''s not every day that he would waste his time on people like them.

    He disappeared in front of them. The bodyguards blinked in confusion.

    "Where did he go," one of them asked. Just before the others could react, they felt a sharp pain in their body.

    "Ah¡­ it hurts¡­"

    "Sorry¡­ please spare us¡­"

    These people were not Ye Xing''s opponents at all. Ye Xing is part of the military''s special force team and is one of the group''s best soldiers. His code name was Nightmare because once an enemy met him, that was the end of that person.

    Yan Mei looked at the scene and felt warmth in her heart. She was a reserved person, but that doesn''t mean that she was heartless.

    She doesn''t remember thest time someone held her like this and protected her.

    Because she was emotional and feeling ufortable, she was desperate to find something to vent on.

    She hugged Lei Zhao''s neck, and unconsciously leaned her head on his neck.

    "Hmm¡­ hot--- hmmm."

    Her lips were unconsciously rubbing on Lei Zhao''s sensitive skin. Her fervent breath fanning on his neck.

    Yan Mei was feeling restless and gritty now. Lei Zhao sucked in a deep breath. He was very proud of his self-control, but in front of this alluring woman, he seemed to lose control.

    He turned to Ye Xing and ordered, "Make sure you take care of all of this. I''m going back to the room first."

    "Yes, young master." Ye Xing knew that the young master of the Fang family was now in deep trouble.

 Chapter 4 I want you.

    Lei Zhao''s expression softened as he looked at the little woman in his arms.

    "Be obedient. Do not mess around, we will reach the room soon," Lei Zhao softly said as if coaxing a kid.

    "But I am so ufortable that it hurts¡­"

    Yan Mei thought the person who was holding her was cold, and the closer she got to his body, the morefortable she felt. She unbuttoned his shirt.

    Lei Zhao sighed, the desire in his eyes was getting stronger. Although Yan Mei''s actions were torturous to him, Lei Zhao still hugged her tightly and did not release her.

    Because of the heat, Yan Mei attempted to remove her clothes, exposing her corbone. Her eyshes trembled, and a faint blush was on her cheeks.

    She looked at Lei Zhao ufortably and helplessly. Her eyes seemed to yearn for Lei Zhao.

    "It is hot¡­ hmm," Yan Mei said as she subconsciously licked her lips. Lei Zhao looked at Yan Mei, and the hand holding her tightened.

    Yan Mei leaned against him and held his neck with both hands. She kissed his neck.

    "It is so fragrant andfortable."

    Lei Zhao breathed a sigh of relief when he realized that they finally reached the suite. He took a ck card from his pocket and swiped it on the door.

    Lei Zhao gently ced Yan Mei on the bed. Yan Mei held his neck tighter and refused to let go. Her face was now crimson red.

    "Hot¡­ I want water," Yan Mei said as she stared pitifully at Lei Zhao.

    "Okay. I will pour a ss of water for you" Lei Zhao picked the ss jar on the bedside table and poured a ss of water for her. When he turned to give her the water, their lips met. The moment Lei Zhao''s lips met her soft lips, he lost control.

    He ced the ss back on the table, grabbed Yan Mei''s hand, and pressed it above her head. He bowed his head and kissed her passionately.

    Even though his kiss seemed gentle, it was very domineering. Yan Mei could not escape. He traced the shape of her lips with his tongue and then gently bit it. Yan Mei unconsciously moaned.

    "Hmmm"

    Seeing that she was responding to him, Lei Zhao deepened the kiss. Yan Mei became soft and clung unto him for support, craving for more.

    After a few minutes, Lei Zhao''s hoarse voice sounded in her ear, "Are you thirsty?"

    Hearing the pleasant voice, she instinctively replied, "Thirsty¡­. Thirsty."

    A glint of light passed through Lei Zhao''s eyes.

    "What do you want," he asked softly.

    "You¡­ Yo¡­ I- want.."

    Before Yan Mei could finish talking, Lei Zhao silenced her with a fiery kiss. He traced the kiss to her earlobe and gently bit it. His hand pulled her dress up and traced his finger on her thighs. Yan Mei moaned.

    "Yes...hmm...ahh"

    Her tender voice could make anyone go entirely out of control.

    Lei Zhao groaned when he heard her voice filled with desire. Before he could getpletely out of control, Lei Zhao let go of Yan Mei and stood up. He fixed his clothes and took a deep breath to calm himself down.

    He had always believed that he had the keen ability to control himself, but now he seemed weak. He closed his eyes and opened them again after a few seconds. The intoxication in his eyes had disappeared.

    Yan Mei, who left alone on the bed, was rolling and biting the sheets, tears in her eyes. She looked pathetic, utterly different from the cold and indifferent person who she was a few hours ago.

    Lei Zhao sat beside her and patted her face with his hand.

    "Do you know who I am?"

    "Save me¡­ I want you¡­"

    Lei Zhao held her hands, and he realized that her body temperature was going up.

    He twisted his eyebrows and sighed.

    The medicine was potent. Yan Mei being able to control herself to this extent was genuinely surprising. He got up and picked up his phone to make a call.

    Five minutester, someone knocked on the door. Lei Zhao opened the door, and a man wearing ab coat came in. He looked at Lei Zhao and worriedly asked, "Where are you hurt again? I had to go over the speed limit to get here. I still have an emergency operation to do."

    Lei Zhao squeezed his eyebrows and said tiredly, "I am fine."

    "Huh? Then why did you call me here?"

    Lei Zhao pointed at the bed. Jun Mo looked towards the direction of the bed and saw a woman there. He widened his eyes in surprise. To confirm his guess, he rubbed his eyes and looked at the woman on the bed again.

    He eximed, "When did you get close to a woman again."

    Lei Zhao ignored him and faintly said," She took some medicine and is ufortable. Relieve her."

    Jun Mo frowned, "What kind of medicine did she take that she cannot go to a hospital, and I have toe here myself?" Then he walked towards the bed and looked at the girl''s appearance. His face sank and quickly grabbed Yan Mei''s wrist to take her pulse.

    "It is an aphrodisiac, and it is one of those toxic ones sold at the ck market?"

    Lei Zhao nodded. "Hmmm."

    Jun Mo looked at Lei Zhao with a faint look, "Who dared to use such a cheap method on her?"

    "I have already dealt with the person. Help her first."

    Jun Mo looked at Lei Zhao with a frown. "You¡­ such a beautiful girl is here, and the best antidote is ¡ª you- Do not tell- You really cannot-"

    Lei Zhao red at him. Seeing the malevolent glint in Lei Zhao''s eyes, Jun Mo swallowed his words. He did not dare to doubt Lei Zhao''s ability. Jun Mo no longer joked around. He ced his bag on the bed and removed a needle from his bag. Because the medicine effect was growing stronger, Yan Mei was growing more restless.

    "Help me hold her," Jun Mo told Lei Zhao. Lei Zhao walked towards the bed and cradled her in his arms.

    "Do not move around. You will feel well soon." When Jun Mo heard Lei Zhao''s gentle voice, he nearly dropped the needle.

    Even though he had nearly gotten into an ident on his way here, he thought it was worth seeing Lei Zhao treat a woman gently for the first time in a long time. ''It seems this woman is unique.''

 Chapter 5 Who are you?

    Maybe it was Lei Zhao''s voice that had a soothing effect because Yan Mei stopped struggling and became quiet for a minute. Jun Mo took advantage of this and gave Yan Mei the injection.

    "In a while, the medicine will soon disappear from her system. She just has to sleep it off and get some rest. Nothing will happen. Don''t worry."

    Lei Zhao looked at Yan Mei and gently wiped the sweat on her forehead. He nodded. "Okay, thank you."

    Jun Mo snorted, "I have been treating you for years now, but this is the first time I hear you say thank you. Because of this woman, you are thanking me? Don''t tell me you like her?"

    Lei Zhao looked at the woman on the bed and ignored Jun Mo. Seeing that Lei Zhao wouldn''t talk, Jun Mo sighed, patted Lei Zhao''s shoulder, and left.

    After Jun Mo left, Lei Zhao went to the window and fell into deep thought. He picked up his phone and made a call.

    A few minutester, Ye Xing appeared with a tablet containing Yan Mei''s information.

    "Boss, the Yan family were the people who cleared the whereabouts of Miss at the clubst time," Ye Xing said as he gave the tablet to Lei Zhao.

    "Hm," Lei Zhao said as he looked at the tablet.

    A glint of light passed through his eyes, reading her information on the tablet. He turned the information page by page and twisted his brows. After a while, he knew a bit about her.

    Yan Mei was the daughter of the young Miss of the Yan family who disappeared some years ago.

    She created her own jewelrypany from scratch, which is now the number one leading jewelrypany in the country now. She did not fight for the rights to Yan Cooperation and left it for her uncle to handle.

    Her past life experience was utterly nk. Like she never existed at all these years. The only information that he had is from three years ago when she came to the Yan family.

    Lei Zhao frowned. ''Who is she that hiswork can''t even find anything about her twenty-three years of existence? What secrets is she hiding?''

    He turned to look at the girl who was now peacefully asleep because of the medicine Jun Mo gave her. He sighed faintly.

    He couldn''t help but feel distressed. For a woman to be this cold and indifferent. He couldn''t imagine what she had gone through. Also, it is difficult to start a business from scratch and get to where she was in less than three years.

    He couldn''t imagine what she would have experienced if he didn''t help her tonight. For the first time, Lei Zhao had the desire to protect someone and make her happy. Unbeknownst to Lei Zhao, the woman on the bed was no damsel in distress.

    He wondered how she would look if she smiled. He remembered that closed-mouth smile she gave him at the club. She looked so beautiful.

    Ye Xing stood beside Lei Zhao respectfully. He didn''t know what Lei Zhao wanted to do with Miss Yan. Just as he was in a daze, Lei Zhao mumbled, "Okay. You can go now."

    "Okay, boss."

    Lei Zhao looked at his watch and saw that it was a quarter past three o''clock in the morning. He was tired. Lei Zhao squeezed his eyebrows together and watched Yan Mei sleeping in his bed and sighed helplessly. There was only one bed in the suite, and Lei Zhao was so tired that heid down on the other side of the bed.

    In the morning, Yan Mei woke up and saw that she was leaning on a person like an octopus. She looked at the person, saw his charming face, and she froze. She hurriedly moved the quilt to get down, but because her actions were fast, it woke up Lei Zhao.

    When Yan Mei saw that the person has opened his eyes, she swallowed nervously. Lei Zhao looked at Yan Mei, and a smug grin appeared on his face.

    He pulled Yan Mei back into his arms and hissed, "You want to escape?"

    The man''s intoxicating voice made Yan Mei stiffen.

    "You¡­ who are you?" Yan Mei looked ufortable with her posture with this stranger and told herself to be rational and calm. She wasn''t the naive girl that she used to be. She did not understand how she got here.

    "Why am I here? We¡­ did we¡­"

    Because she was too nervous, she stuttered, and her words became incoherent. Lei Zhao''s charming eyes shed with a smile. He raised his fingers and gently ced it on her lips. His fingers slowly traced the shape of her lips.

    Yan Mei''s head exploded. Even though this isn''t the first time she has been close to a man, her head became nk.

    She didn''t know what was happening to her. She just thought the man in front of her was handsome. No, he was a seducer! The beauty of the man can inadvertently move the mind. Yan Mei knew deeply that such a handsome man was poisonous.

    Lei Zhao bowed his head and whispered in Yan Mei''s ears.

    "This¡­ don''t make a sound. Think about how hard I workedst time."

    Lei Zhao''s charming voice sounded in her ears. His fiery breath brushed on her ears and neck, arousing a series of feelings she had buried.

    This feeling was both familiar and unfamiliar to her, making her body trembled. Her face was filled with helplessness. She didn''t know such a look could unconsciously make people want to tease her.

    Lei Zhao''s eyes were a littleplicated. He tried to control the burning desire in his body and sped Yan Mei''s waist.

    Yan Mei couldn''t help but think about what happenedst night. She suddenly remembered what happened, and she wanted to find a hole to hide in right now.

 Chapter 6 Marry me.

    She couldn''t believe that she had shamelessly asked a stranger to sleep with her.

    "Sorry¡­ I''m sorry¡­ I didn''t mean it," Yan Mei said embarrassingly.

    Lei Zhao smirked, "Can sorry solve everything?"

    Yan Mei wanted to disappear right now. Even though she was strong on the surface, she was still ignorant of these kinds of stuff. She had never had a one-night stand before, so she didn''t know how to behave. She pushed her head into Lei Zhao''s arms, trying to bury herself.

    "I don''t know how topensate you."

    Looking at the girl in his arms, Lei Zhao smiled gently with a hint of warmth in his eyes. He patted her head gently.

    "It was the first time a woman made me¡­ cough¡­" Lei Zhao could not finish his sentence because he coughed.

    "I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to take advantage of you. Thank you for saving mest night."

    Lei Zhao sighed, "Aren''t you going topensate, me? I paid a lot to save you. That man was scary. Who is he?"

    An icy light shed through Yan Mei''s eyes when she heard Lei Zhao.

    "Don''t worry. He won''t bother you, but I¡­ I don''t know how topensate you. Is there anything you''d like? As long as it''s legal, I will fulfill it for you," Yan Mei said as she frowned. She didn''t know how topensate for this man. She thought this was the best solution.

    "I want nothing. Just take responsibility for what happenedst night," Lei Zhao said faintly.

    "What?" Yan Mei thought she heard him wrong.

    "Why, are you regretting what you said? I am your life-saving benefactor. You promise that as long as I liked something which is legal, you will fulfill it. Isn''t this the most legal thing to ask for? Or¡­ is it that you don''t want to be responsible? Lei Zhao smirked.

    "How do you want me to be responsible?" Yan Mei said as she looked at the guy in front of her. She doesn''t even know his name yet.

    "Marry me," Lei Zhao said and blinked, waiting for her reaction.

    Yan Mei stared at Lei Zhao in a daze. "Marry you? Do you even know who I am?"

    Lei Zhaoughed when he heard her, "Of course you are my future wife!"

    ''Did she encounter another lunatic apart from Fang Yan?'' Yan Mei thought as she stared at Lei Zhao. ''What person in his right mind would ask a stranger to marry him?''

    "Think about it. You have nothing to lose if you marry me. I''m handsome, good in bed. I can cook, do chores, and I am faithful. How many guys can boldly say that they will be faithful to only one woman?"

    Yan Mei lowered her head, and her eyes were empty. "You are a good person. You deserve a good wife, not the devil reincarnated." Yan Mei said as she smiled. Lei Zhao sighed and raised her chin so she could look into his eyes.

    "Okay. I''m serious, though. I''m old now, and my mom wants me to get married. And I think you are a better candidate than those spoiled girls.

    Also, I want to marry you so I can pamper you. I want to see you smile like that day at the club. I know that you don''t remember me, but ever since I saw you that night, I promised myself to make this woman happy. I want to protect you and shield you from the rain. Also, I can see that you have been hurt before. Let me make you happy, okay?"

    Yan Mei''s heart suddenly skipped a beat. No one has ever said that they will spoil her and protect her, let alone shield her from the rain. Only one person had promised her that, but he threw divorce papers at her and threw her on the streets.

    She has been hurt, and she really can''t stand another blow. Now, she was too busy making money in order not to depend on anybody again. Even though she knew it was fake, she had an impulse to agree to this offer. Sheughed at herself when she realized she was considering his offer. Maybe her heart had been lonely for too long.

    Men will seduce you with words, and drop you into the pit of hell. Yan Mei learned this the hard way. She won''t take that risk again.

    Lei Zhao looked at Yan Mei quietly as her eyes suddenly became empty, and then there was a firmness in her eyes.

    "I''m sorry, but I can''t marry you. I have to go. I have an appointmentter. I will leave a number here. When you can think of another way I canpensate you, call me," Yan Mei said as she pushed Lei Zhao''s hands away and got out of bed. Lei Zhao smiled mysteriously.

    "This is the onlypensation I want. I know you will agree soon," Yan Mei frowned when she heard him.

    "You think I will agree?"

    "I believe you will repay my life-saving grace. Take care."

 Chapter 7 Blind date

    The moment Yan Mei got home, she took a shower and tried to calm herself down. Just as she was sitting on her bed in a daze, her mobile phone sounded in the quiet room.

    Looking at the phone, she realized she had several missed calls. She sighed as she picked up the call.

    "Yan Mei! Are you okay?" the worried voice of Su Bei yelled on the other side of the phone.

    "I''m fine. Don''t worry," Yan Mei said faintly.

    "What happenedst night? Why did the Fang family dere bankruptcy suddenly this morning?"

    Yan Mei frowned when she heard what Su Bei just said. She had forgotten entirely about Fang Yan. ''Who did he offend apart from her?''

    "Well, maybe they got a powerful person angry. How does that concern me?" Yan Mei said indifferently.

    Su Bei knew that Yan Mei was in a grim mood based on her tone, so she didn''t bother her anymore.

    "Okay. See youter. Bye," Su Bei said.

    "Hmm, bye," Yan Mei said as she hung up the call. She groaned as sheid on the bed.

    "Fang Yan, you fool. You dare to drug me." Yan Mei whispered as an evil glint passed through her eyes. She hated it when people plot against her.

    Yan Mei picked up her phone and made a call. Her voice was icy, as if she was passing a death sentence.

    "In five minutes, I want all the dirt on Fang Yan exposed to the media. Make sure there is no hole for aeback."

    Without waiting for the person''s response, Yan Mei hung up the call. Within five minutes, the news outlets were filled with news about Fang Yan.

    His gambling debts and sex videos with some top government officials'' wives also hit the inte. His illegal trafficking of girls into prostitution also resurfaced, causing a wave ofmotion in the country.

    Because of public outrage, the police began investigating the Fang family and discovered weird secrets.

    Because Grandpa Fang couldn''t stand the blow, he copsed. The patriarch of the Fang family copsed. Causing an internal war to begin in the family, leading to the destruction of the Fang family in S city.

    Many years from now, people could not find out who the Fang family had offended that led to their downfall.

    Lei Zhaoughed when he heard Ye Xing report on what Yan Mei had done. ''This woman was really no damsel in distress, so ruthless to her enemies''.

    He was more interested in her now. He knew that she would want to deal with this herself. That is why he only let the Fang Group''s stock fall, making them dere bankruptcy.

    Turning to Ye Xing, he muttered, "What do you think of Miss Yan as the hostess of our family?"

    Ye Xing stiffened when he heard Lei Zhao.

    "Young master-"

    "Call Grandpa for me. Ask him if he wants a great-grandson soon. He will help me," Lei Zhao smirked as he interjected Ye Xing.

    Just as Yan Mei was about to doze off, she heard her phone ring. Her hand groped for the phone on her bedside table. Finally, Yan Mei picked up the phone. Still keeping her eyes closed, she pressed the answer button.

    When Yan Mei picked up the call, she heard the anxious voice of Uncle Wang, her grandpa''s butler.

    "Young Miss, pleasee to Paradise Hospital. The old man wants to see you."

    ''Paradise Hospital? Why does Grandpa want to see her?''

    Yan Mei''s first reaction was that her grandfather was sick. So she hurriedly hung up the phone, got dressed, then rushed to the hospital. Even though she had only known the old man for three years, she had grown up to love him.

    Yan Mei prayed that nothing wrong would happen to her grandfather. She doesn''t know what she would do if something happens to him.

    When Yan Mei reached the hospital, she saw her grandfather and Uncle Wang waiting for her in front of the hospital. Yan Mei blinked her eyes slowly to make sure that the person standing there was her grandfather.

    Yan Mei ran towards her grandfather and hugged him. After a while, she let go of him and looked at him from head to toe.

    She asked with a puzzled face, "Grandpa, didn''t Uncle Wang say that you''re in the hospital? I was worried¡­"

    Grandpa Yan patted her head gently. Unconsciously, his eyes filled with distress.

    "Xiaomei, I''m fine. My body is adamant, don''t worry. I intentionally asked Uncle Wang to say that, otherwise, you wouldn''te if I had told you the actual reason."

    Yan Mei frowned when she heard him.

    "Let us go. Grandpa will take you to meet someone."

    Yan Mei didn''t even get the chance to speak, and she was stuffed into the car. When the car started, Yan Mei finally talked.

    "Grandpa, where are we going? Don''t tell me you want to take me on a blind date again?" Yan Mei said as she stared at Grandpa Yan.

    "Xiaomei, grandpa is old now. I want to have a grandson before I die. Also, you deserve to be happy. I don''t know what you went through these years, but I don''t like seeing that sad look in your eyes, and that cold and aloof face you wear every day.

    Don''t you get tired of that mask? If people can see your smile, I bet they will fall for you right away. My granddaughter is the most beautiful woman in City S. I will take you to meet the grandson of my oldrade-in-arms. If you don''t like him, grandpa won''t force you. But you have to believe in grandpa''s vision."

    Yan Mei knew that her grandfather only wanted the best for her. Holding Grandpa Yan''s arm lightly, Yan Mei nodded and smiled.

    "Grandpa, I believe in your vision, and I promise to go on this blind date."

    Yan Mei reasoned to herself that she has been forced to go on countless blind dates set up by her grandfather, so going to this one won''t make a difference. When Yan Mei said this, Grandpa Yan smiledfortably.

    After more than twenty minutes, the car stopped in front of the Roses Coffee Shop.

    "Xiaomei. If you like him, you can get married. Don''t worry, grandpa is not old-fashioned. I don''t object to sh marriages. I believe love after marriage is more beautiful. As long as you can live happily, that is the most important thing."

    Before Yan Mei could react, she saw that her grandfather was already in the coffee shop saying hello to an elderly man around his age.

    "Oldman Yan! I haven''t seen you for such a long time. Let me introduce you to my grandson, Lei Zhao. This must be your granddaughter."

    "Yes. Xiaomei,e and greet Grandpa Lei."

    Yan Mei smiled slightly as she greeted Oldman Lei. She turned to look at the man and froze for a minute. ''How can it be him!'' Yan Mei thought bitterly.

 Chapter 8 Letâ€™s get married

    "Oldman Yan, your granddaughter really resembles her mother. She is really beautiful," Oldman Lei said, breaking the awkward confrontation between Yan Mei and Lei Zhao. Grandpa Yan smiled when he heard him.

    "Yeah, my Xiaomei is beautiful, just like her mother. Xiaomei, this is Lei Zhao, Oldman Lei''s grandson."

    Yan Mei nodded stiffly at Lei Zhao when she heard her grandfather.

    "Let''s leave the kids alone so they can get to know each other. We old people have a lot of things to discuss too. It''s been a long time since I''ve seen you," Oldman Lei said as he dragged his friend out of the coffee shop.

    Yan Mei and Lei Zhao sat face to face. Neither of them was in a hurry to break the frigid silence. Yan Mei had a good impression of Lei Zhao since he didn''t take advantage of her when she was drugged.

    Only a few men can do that. Thinking about his offer, she realized it wasn''t that bad.

    Anyway, she knew her heart was dead already and there is no way she would fall in love again. Also, he is her grandfather''s favorite candidate for a grandson-inw.

    Thinking about love, Yan Mei was tired. So tired that she no longer wanted to believe in love anymore.

    She could not fall in love with someone again and grandpa has forced her to this extent. How anxious must he be for her to get married?

    Anyway, she knew that eventually, she would have to get married to make her grandfather happy. So why not choose the man in front of her?

    "Let''s get married," Yan Mei said coldly.

    When Yan Mei said this, Lei Zhao, who was drinking his coffee, suddenly choked on the coffee. Seeing him cough, Yan Mei quickly handed him a tissue.

    "Mr. Lei, are you okay? I thought you wanted me to marry you this morning to repay your life-saving grace or have you changed your mind?"

    After a while, Lei Zhao stopped coughing. He smiled softly to Yan Mei and said gently, "I''m fine, don''t worry. Thank you for your concern."

    With a thoughtful look on his face, he said, "Are you sure you want to get married? Marriage is not a child''s y and once we get married, I won''t ask for a divorce."

    Even though he wanted to marry her and was thinking about how to convince her, he didn''t expect her to suddenly propose that they should get married. He wanted her to marry him because she wanted to, not because of pressure from her grandfather.

    Yan Mei frowned when she heard him.

    "Well, thank you for reminding me, but I know what I''m doing. I will try to be a good wife."

    Lei Zhao smiled when he heard what she said.

    "Since you have agreed to marry me, then we will go to the Civil Affairs Bureau tomorrow morning."

    Yan Mei nodded indifferently as she took a sip of her coffee. A few minutester, she got up and looked at Lei Zhao.

    "Mr. Lei, if there is nothing else to discuss, I will see you tomorrow at the Civil Affairs Bureau at eight o''clock. Don''t bete."

    Lei Zhao grinned. He liked how his wife was a little spitfire.

    "Okay. See you tomorrow."

    Yan Mei nodded indifferently. "Then I will leave first. Enjoy the rest of your coffee."

    Lei Zhao looked at the woman who was leaving the coffee shop and a glint of light passed through his eyes. No one knew what he was thinking.

    - THE NEXT DAY -

    Su Bei looked at her friend and sighed.

    "Yan Mei are you okay? You have been staring at your coffee for a couple of minutes now without drinking it." The sound of Su Bei''s voice brought Yan Mei out of her daze.

    "I got married," Yan Mei muttered.

    Su Bei spluttered her coffee when she heard Yan Mei.

    "What?"

    Yan Mei nodded.

    "Yes, we went to get the certificate this morning," Yan Mei said as she looked through the window of the coffee shop.

    "Wait, is it the guy who saved you from Fang Yan who asked you to marry him as a life-saving grace?" Su Bei said as she looked at her friend.

    Yan Mei had told Su Bei what happenedst night.

    "Yes," Yan Mei replied softly.

    "You¡­ what happened? How could you decide so rashly? Marriage is no joke. It involves two families. Do you even know who he is or what he does for a living?"

    Yan Mei fell into deep thought as she took a sip of her coffee. She frowned when she realized that her coffee has be cold.

    "No. Grandpa set up a blind date for me. When I went, it was him. I''m bored with these blind dates and he is the best candidate so far, so I chose him. It''s not like I can fall in love with somebody again," Yan Mei said faintly.

    Su Bei sighed when she heard her. Just as she was about to speak, a phone rang. She nced at her phone and saw that it was her mother.

    She smiled apologetically at Yan Mei as she picked up the phone.

    "Mom," Yan Mei did not hear what Su Bei''s mother said, but she suddenly saw Su Bei''s face turn pale.

    "Okay, I''ming right away."

    Yan Mei looked at her friend, who looked pale, and asked worriedly, "Is everything okay?"

    Su Bei forced out a smile as she got up.

    "Yeah, don''t worry. I will see youter at the office. My mom told me to do something for her. Sorry, I have to go."

    Without waiting for Yan Mei to reply, Su Bei left the caf¨¦. Yan Mei frowned and sent her a message:

    Yan Mei: Take a few days off of work. Take care.

    She knew her friend had some financial problems, but she always had too much pride to ask for help. Because she doesn''t want Su Bei to feel ufortable, she pretends not to be aware of it.

    Yan Mei looked through the window and tapped her fingers on the table as she thought of a way to help Su Bei without letting her know.

    Just as she was contemting what to do, a shadow settled from across her.

 Chapter 9 Bad Guy

    Yan Mei looked up and saw it was Lei Zhao. He was wearing a white button-up shirt; he had rolled his sleeves, revealing his forearms. She hated to admit it, but he looked handsome. She could feel the eyes of the girls at the coffee shop on him.

    "Don''t tell me you''re following me now," Yan Mei muttered.

    Lei Zhao''s lips twitched into a smile.

    "If I say it is aplete coincidence to meet you here, would you believe me?"

    Yan Mei shook her head, giving him a disapproving look.

    "Well, my heart hurts now. I thought you would be happy to see me, my wife. You left abruptly after getting the certificate without saying a word to me. I will leave-"

    "Wait. Don''t go," Yan Mei interjected. She felt terrible that she had left him the moment they got the certificate. She thought she needed space to ept the fact that she was married again. Just that this time it is to aplete stranger.

    Lei Zhao raised his brows. ''Was she asking him to stay?''

    He shed her a smile as he sat down in the chair, Su Bei was previously sitting.

    "Your wish is mymand, love."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes at him. A waiter came to take his order the moment he sat down.

    "Would you like to order anything, sir?"

    The waiter asked softly as she batted her fake eyshes at him, trying to flirt with him.

    "I will have what she is having," Lei Zhao said coldly. The waiter looked at Yan Mei and frowned. "Okay."

    No one spoke after the waiter left. Yan Mei looked through the window while resting her chin in her hand while Lei Zhao stared at her.

    The scene was so beautiful that no one wanted to disturb it. The waiter furrowed her brows. She hated Yan Mei. She just had to sit down and look so beautiful.

    She had always hated women who were more beautiful than her. A dangerous light shed through her eyes. While she was about to put the coffee on the table, she intentionally spilled it on Yan Mei''s hand, which was on the table. And because Lei Zhao was busily looking at Yan Mei, he didn''t pay attention to the waiter.

    Yan Mei groaned in pain when she felt the hot coffee on her skin. Yan Mei turned to look at her hand. Lei Zhao stood up and gently held her hand when he realized what was going on.

    "Go get water!" he yelled at the waiter. The waiter ignored him and started crying.

    "I''m sorry, please don''t hit me," the waiter said as she tried to hold Lei Zhao''s shirt. Lei Zhao pushed her away.

    "Who is in charge here!" Lei Zhao roared in the caf¨¦. The noisy ce suddenly became quiet. The manager ran downstairs when he heard themotion going on.

    "Mr. Lei, I¡­ I¡­:

    "Find me water immediately," Lei Zhao interjected the manager.

    "Here," the manager said as he gave the bottled water, he was holding to Lei Zhao. Fortunately, he was about to drink the water when he heard the noise downstairs, bringing it along with him.

    Lei Zhao took it and looked at Yan Mei. Looking at the woman who hadn''t made a sound or cried out in pain made his heart tightened in pain. He gently poured the water on the burn.

    "Sorry¡­ it will hurt a little."

    Yan Mei looked at the man who was gently pouring the water on her burns as if he was afraid that she would get hurt, and she felt her heart soften.

    There seemed to be a little crack in her iced heart. She looked away, trying to hide theplicated emotions in her eyes.

    "Let me take you to the hospital so it doesn''t leave any scars, okay?" Lei Zhao said softly as he looked at Yan Mei.

    "No, I''m fine. It''s just a burn. Don''t worry." Looking at the stubborn woman in front of him, Lei Zhao was helpless.

    Fortunately, it was just a slight burn, or he didn''t know what he will do if it was worse. Someone dared to hurt Yan Mei right under his nose. Rage coursed through his veins.

    After pouring water on the burn, he turned to the manager.

    "Clean this up." His frosty gaze fell on the waiter who was smirking as she looked at Yan Mei. Suddenly she felt cold. Looking up, she met Lei Zhao''s chilly eyes. She swallowed nervously. This man was perilous.

    Just as Lei Zhao was about to speak, he saw Yan Mei move in front of him. Yan Mei turned to look at the waiter and gave her an evil smirk. The waiter felt her body hair rise. She suddenly felt that this couple was a pair of demons. Their mere eyes could make her entire body feel cold. She hurriedly stood in front of Yan Mei.

    "Miss, I''m sorry! Please forgive me. It wasn''t my fault you weren''t paying attention when I put the coffee on the table," the waiter cried as she talked.

    The people in the coffee shop started whispering. Their thoughts changed; thinking Yan Mei was a rich person bullying the poor waiter.

    Yan Meiughed. "You know what type of people I hate the most? A hypocrite likes you. You do something bad, then act like you are the victim. Since you want to act, I will y along," Yan Mei said as she shed the man on the table with a smile.

    "Let me take your coffee. I will pay for it."

    The man stared at her and swallowed. He has never met a gorgeous woman with such a sinister charm. He nodded nervously.

    Yan Mei picked up the man''s coffee and turned to look at the waiter.

    The waiter stepped back when she saw the coffee in Yan Mei''s hand. "You¡­ What are you going to do?"

    Yan Mei snorted, "Are you not making me the bad guy? Then I will be the bad guy."

 Chapter 10 Smile more often

    Yan Mei turned to the manager, "If you want this coffee shop to continue to run, you will prevent her from running," she said coldly as she approached the waiter.

    The manager turned to look at Lei Zhao, who owned the ce. Lei Zhao nodded when the manager looked at him. The manager quickly held the waiter about to run, and kicked her, which made her kneel.

    Yan Mei nced at the people in the shop, and coldly said, "If I were you, I would be a darling and not record anything on my phone."

    Thest thing she wanted to deal with was the media. The customers who had taken their phone out quickly put them away. They knew that this woman wasn''t a force to reckon with.

    The waiter shivered in fear. If she knew this woman was this terrible, she wouldn''t have poured the coffee on her, even if she had the courage.

    "Hmm. So, where should I start?" Yan Mei whispered to herself as she stared at the waiter. She then turned to look at Lei Zhao. She wanted to see if he would be disgusted with her like everyone else. Feeling her eyes on him, he smiled softly and said, "It doesn''t matter where you start, as long as you''re happy, that''s all that matters."

    Yan Mei''s heart skipped a beat. The surrounding people looked at them as if they were a pair of devils. Who in their right mind would encourage something like this? Shouldn''t he ask her to stop? Yan Mei sorted out her emotions and turned back to look at the waiter with a smirk on her face.

    Yan Mei drizzled a little of coffee on the waiter''s hand.

    "Arghh¡­" the waiter screamed in pain.

    "Oops, sorry, miss. It was an ident. I didn''t mean it. I hope you''re not angry," Yan Mei said softly as she bowed her head like a kid who had just done something terrible. Lei Zhao had the urge to ruffle her hair right now. He thought she looked so cute.

    Lei Zhao didn''t realize that he was the only weird person who found Yan Mei cute. In the eyes of other people, Yan Mei was a monster with no feelings. How could she intentionally pour hot coffee on someone and still act like it was an ident?

    "You bitch! I won''t let you go," the waiter said as she red at Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei let out a long breath. She wanted to scare this loser, but people like her will never learn. She squatted down and looked at the waiter''s face.

    "You know¡­ I was thinking about letting you go, but you threatened me and I Yan Mei doesn''t do so well with threats." After saying this, Yan Mei got up and disyed an evil grin on her face.

    The waiter had an awful feeling when she saw the evil grin on Yan Mei''s face.

    "You¡­ What¡­ do you want to¡­ to do?" The waiter said incoherently, because of fear.

    Yan Mei then threw the coffee at the waiter and ced the cup on the table.

    "Arrggghhh¡­ you''re a devil! I won''t let you go!" the waiter wailed in pain as she covered her hand and red at Yan Mei. Her eyes were full of hate.

    Yan Meiughed at what the waiter just said. "You''re not the first person to call me a devil, and you will not be thest person to say it either."

    The people around the room felt cold as they stared at the beautiful woman who wasughing. The light rays illuminated from the window and fell on her, making her look more charming.

    "You know¡­ Since I''m in a good mood today, I will let you go. But if you cross me again, and I''m in a nasty mood¡­" Yan Mei paused as she nced around to warn everyone else around her not to cross her.

    After the altercation, she left money on the table, turned to the manager and said, "This is for any damages and also her hospital bill."

    Without waiting for his response, she gracefully left the coffee shop,pletely ignoring the weird stares people were giving her. She had already gotten used to it. The people in the caf¨¦ finally let out a sigh of relief when she left.

    Lei Zhao coldly nced at the waiter and turned to the manager."Put her on a cklist. With her attitude, I wonder how she got the job."

    The manager swallowed when he heard Lei Zhao. He had slept with the waiter before giving her the job. This stupid woman just had to mess things up for herself.

    Without waiting for the manager to speak, Lei Zhao quickly ran out of the coffee shop and chased after Yan Mei.

    * * * * *

    Yan Mei sat in her car and sighed. She felt guilty about what happened. Was she too extreme? But she knew that showing mercy to an enemy is cruel to herself. She was turning into this devil, and she hated it. She was missing the times she used to be pure and innocent. Her parents spoiled her so much, so she was willful. She remembered that her dad always said that whatever his little princess wanted, he would give it to her. Because of that, she turned into this carefree little girl.

    Those days were the happiest moments of her life. Thinking about her parents, she suddenly became pale. She had killed them. If it weren''t for her, they might still be alive. Maybe she was the devil causing chaos to her loved ones.

    The sound of someone knocking on her window brought her out of her daze. Turning her head towards the window, her eyes met Lei Zhao''s worried eyes.

    "Are you okay?" Lei Zhao asked as he looked at her. Even though she bowed her head to hide the emotions in her eyes, he still saw it. Her eyes were filled with pain, as if she was ming herself for something.

    "You shouldn''t let irrelevant people affect your mood. At times, a little violence is needed to carry a message across to someone stupid. And besides, you looked really cool," Lei Zhao said as he shed her a smile.

    Yan Mei smiled and said, "Are you trying to make me feel better?"

    Lei Zhao scratched his head, embarrassingly, "Well, did it work?"

    Yan Mei shook her head. "No. It wasme." She tried to suppress her giggles, but she threw back her head and let out a rambunctiousugh when she saw how embarrassed he felt.

    Lei Zhao was shocked when he saw a genuineugh pouring out of her, splitting her mask into two. It showed him a glimpse of who she was behind her haughty beauty.

    For an instant, the emotional pain in her eyes disappeared, and at that moment, she looked happy. She seemed like someone who wouldn''t force augh for things that don''t deserve it.

    Except for that evil grin. When she was nning on doing something wicked, he could see paincing in her cynical eyes as if she remembered something.

    "You look beautiful when youugh. You should do that more often," Lei Zhao said as he smiled.

 Chapter 11 First Kiss

    Yan Mei froze when she heard him, she didn''t remember thest time something so simple made herugh. She coughed to hide her awkwardness.

    Yan Mei looked around and realized that they were still at the parking lot and he was leaning on her car window. She could see a couple of girls taking pictures of Lei Zhao. She didn''t know why, but she was feeling annoyed.

    "Get in. Let me give you a ride or did you bring your car," she asked. Lei Zhao grinned.

    "No, I didn''t bring a car and I would love a ride," he said as he opened the car door and sat in the passenger''s seat.

    Yan Mei started the car and turned to look at him. Their eyes met and she saw the affectionate look in his eyes. Before she could react, Lei Zhao kissed her lightly. Her rosy lips were covered by two thin lips. By the time she was able to react, Lei Zhao had already moved away and was smirking at her. Yan Mei''s face suddenly turned red and she red at Lei Zhao with disappointment.

    "How dare you kiss me without my consent," she said angrily. Lei Zhao smiled in reply.

    "My wife, kissing you is my right." After listening to Lei Zhao''s brief exnation, Yan Mei gritted her teeth. She felt that he would kill her with his shamelessness.

    Yan Mei couldn''t find the right words to refute what he said. Who made her marry him? She threw him a look, but did not dare to answer. Yan Mei took a deep breath and regained her indifferent face.

    Lei Zhao wanted tough. Through the mirror, he could see her flushed face and thought that she looked cute.

    "Where are you going," Yan Mei asked indifferently.

    "My wife, we are already married. Let''s spend some time together." Lei Zhao muttered.

    "Okay," Yan Mei mumbled back. Lei Zhao was a little surprised by her answer. He thought that she would have not agreed.

    Yan Mei drove him to the parking lot of Buckram Estate, the ce that she was staying at. She opened the car door and was about to get down, but then Lei Zhao suddenly grabbed her wrist and she turned around to face him.

    "Is there a supermarket here?"

    Yan Mei nced at him and pointed her finger towards the direction of the supermarket. "Go left and you will see the sign board there."

    "I didn''t bring money though," Lei Zhao said and smiled embarrassingly.

    Yan Mei got the clue that he wanted her to keep himpany, so she thought and then replied, "I will go with you."

    The two went to the supermarket together. Yan Mei silently apanied him without saying anything. She watched him pick up different food and put it in the cart. Lei Zhao suddenly stopped and turned to look at her.

    "What kind of food do you like to eat?"

    "I''m not picky. Anything is fine with me."

    Yan Mei looked at the almost full cart. She was not the one who was going to eat the food, so she didn''t care what he was picking.

    "I think I have all the ingredients, let''s go. You like spicy food right?"

    Yan Mei froze in ce for a bit, realizing that the food he ced in the cart was not for him. He wanted to go to her apartment and cook for her. After thinking about it, she realized that she had no food to eat tonight, so she didn''t say anything.

    She went straight to the cart and removed the package of shrimp. Lei Zhao guessed that she didn''t like shrimp.

    "Why didn''t you say anything when I put the shrimp in the cart?"

    "I thought you were buying ingredients for yourself."

    Lei Zhao was taken back by her words and he felt a little ufortable. They were already married, but this woman still treated him like a stranger. At this point, Lei Zhao had forgotten that they have only met three times.

    When he thought about it, he felt difort in his heart. With a sullen face, he followed her to her apartment after she paid for the ingredients. He made up his mind to remind her that he was now her husband. When they reached the apartment, Yan Mei entered the passcode and opened the door. The moment they entered, Lei Zhao dropped the grocery bags on the floor and pinned her against the door.

    Yan Mei gasped in surprise. Their eyes met and time seemed to freeze. Lei Zhao raised his hands and gently caressed her cheeks while their eyes were locked, both of them trying to read each other''s emotions.

    Yan Mei didn''t say anything. Lei Zhao could see the confusion, anger, and other unclear emotions buried deep in her eyes. For this man, her mood was quiteplicated.

    She initially agreed to his proposal because she was tired of going on those boring blind dates with arrogant men who think they can have her. She was the one who made this decision and did not want to be unfair to Lei Zhao so she thought that she should at least try her best to be a good wife.

    ''Lei Zhao, since I chose you, I will not retreat or treat you badly. Even if I don''t like you now, I will try to love you as long as you remain loyal and do not betray me. Then I will never leave you,'' Yan Mei thought in her head.

    She wanted to start again. She hoped that he wouldn''t disappoint her.

    Looking at the flicker of emotions in her eyes, Lei Zhao brushed her hair from her shoulders and moved closer to her. Yan Mei swallowed when she felt his lean body pressed against her.

    She thought he was going to kiss her, but instead, he caressed her neck slowly and gently. Suddenly, Yan Mei felt the graze of his lips against her neck.

    Her head began to spin as she felt butterflies in her stomach. Lei Zhao kissed her earlobe softly and then worked his way down her neck to her corbone before returning to look at her face.

    Yan Mei felt his breath curling against her skin. For the first time in a long time, she felt her body craving a man''s touch. Her eyes were filled with lust, her lips were slightly parted, and her cheeks were a little flushed.

    Lei Zhao looked at her and thought to himself that she looked really sexy right now. A gush of desire suddenly overwhelmed him. ''This woman was truly a temptress,'' he thought.

    "My wife. Do you want me to kiss you?"

    His hands cupped her breasts and gave a small squeeze. He then softly brushed his fingertips on her nipples.

    "Hmm," Yan Mei moaned. She knew that she had lost all her rationality right now. That sound was all Lei Zhao needed. He cupped her face in his hands and pulled her into a fiery and passionate kiss.

 Chapter 12 Rogue

    Yan Mei''s hand unconsciously touched her lips as she stared at her reflection in the mirror in a haze. She thought he would take things further, but after kissing her for a few minutes, he pulled away from her and chuckled nastily.

    "Wifey, if we don''t stop, I don''t think I can control myself. And I don''t want our first time to be on a door."

    Yan Mei''s face reddened when she heard him, especially when she felt his hard-on rubbing against her belly. She pushed him away and ran towards her room.

    She couldn''t believe that just a kiss alone could fluctuate her emotions like that. Taking a deep breath, she sorted out her emotions and went back downstairs.

    When she reached the bottom of the stairs, she didn''t see him in the living room. She felt a pang of sadness. She thought she woulde down and find him waiting for her.

    Jerk! Didn''t he say that he would cook for her? Yan Mei was slightly annoyed.

    Just as she was about to walk back up to her room, she heard a noise in the kitchen. ''Was it a thief?'' Yan Mei frowned as she thought.

    When she got to the kitchen, she saw Lei Zhao skillfully chopping vegetables. Yan Mei heaved a sigh and leaned on the door as she admired him.

    "I didn''t know a cocky person like you could cook. I thought you were bluffing earlier," Yan Mei said sarcastically. Lei Zhao turned to look at her when he heard her.

    "Ouch. I never knew I was a cocky person in my wife''s eyes. I guess I have to change that." Lei Zhao smirked.

    Yan Mei snorted, but there was a faint smile in her eyes. She walked over to him to give him a hand. She would pass him a cup of water or get him tes if he needed it. Their hands would brush each other from time to time. At first, she was a little stiff to the touch, but then she got used to it.

    Looking at Lei Zhao skillfully beating eggs, Yan Mei couldn''t help but ask, "Where did you learn how to cook? It''s really rare to see a man cook as skillfully as you these days."

    Lei Zhao chuckled. "Wifey, are you praising me? My mother said that a man should know how to survive on his own, so she taught me how to cook when I was a kid."

    "Your mom must be a very good mother."

    Lei Zhao looked sideways. He saw her face reveal a trace of loss and pain. Lei Zhao put the bowl down and pulled her into his arms. He wrapped his arms around his waist.

    "Mother is very good. She will soon be your mother too. I think that she will like you very much."

    Yan Mei blinked her eyes, looking at Lei Zhao, and hesitantly said, "Mother will like me?" The word mother felt foreign in her mouth.

    "Don''t worry. Go and watch some TV. Once I''m done, I will call you," Lei Zhao said as he ruffled her hair. Yan Mei frowned.

    "I''m not a child. Don''t ruffle my hair again," she said coldly.

    Lei Zhao let out a sigh after she turned and walked away. This woman was sometimes really confusing and cute.

    Half an hourter, four dishes and one bowl of soup were being ced on the dining table. The strong smell of food lingered in the kitchen and the dining room.

    SItting at the sofa in the living room, Yan Mei''s eyes were growing hot from staring at the food on the dining table. She tried to suppress her emotions. No one has cooked for her since her parents died. Wang Lu was a bad cook, so the servants did all the cooking once they got married.

    The only time she heard her mother talk about her father was when they were eating. She still remembered thest meal she had with her mom:

    "Meimei, your father is a very good cook. When I was with him, he would prepare all the food. He loved me and always pampered me. I don''t want you to hate your father or think that he didn''t want you. It was your mom who ran away and got married to another man. At the time, I did not know I was pregnant and I already had a marriage contract with someone else. When I found out I was pregnant, your father was far away. Your grandpa thought that if I wanted to protect you and your father, I had to run away."

    "Wifey. Wifey!" Lei Zhao''s anxious voice brought her out of her stupor.

    "Wifey, are you okay?" Lei Zhao asked worriedly when he saw her pale face.

    Yan Mei''s eyes met Lei Zhao''s eyes. Her indifferent face softened when she saw the gentle and worried look in his eyes.

    "Yeah. I''m fine."

    "Okay. Let''s eat." Lei Zhao knew that she did not want to talk about what she was thinking, so he didn''t probe further.

    Sitting at the dining table, Lei Zhao put two spicy fish on her rice and smiled softly.

    "Wife, eat more, okay? From now on, hubby will cook for you. You look so thin. Someone will think I''m bullying my wife." Yan Mei smiled softly and picked some vegetables for him.

    "You should also eat more. I am your wife, I should be the one cooking. Unfortunately, I can''t cook," Yan Mei said embarrassingly.

    Lei Zhao''s eyes softened. "Don''t worry, Wifey. I will do all the chores in the house. I don''t mind being a ve to my wife."

    "But I can''t let you do everything. It''s my responsibility. I will feel useless."

    "It''s okay. Don''t think about it. After all, you will go to work in the morning to make money for the house and you will work hard during the night. So you''re not useless," Lei Zhao said with an evil grin on his face. Yan Mei blushed.

    "Rogue!"

    Lei Zhao erupted intoughter when he saw her face turn red. His wife was really cute. Even though she would put up a really cold and indifferent face, he knew that it was just a mask and that she was actually a very cute woman who was sometimes really childish.

    Yan Mei decided to ignore him because she realized that she might get hypertension if she responded to every word that woulde out of his mouth.

 Chapter 13 Wedding nigh

    After dinner, Lei Zhao let Yan Mei went back to watch TV as he wouldn''t let her wash the dishes.

    "Wife, you have to rest after all today is our wedding night. I can''t let you get tired so early." Yan Mei''s face was red as the words of Lei Zhao still echoed in her ears.

    ''Wedding night? Was she really ready to sleep with this man?''

    Just as Yan Mei was thinking she saw the news that was being broadcasted.

    "Wang Lu and the young miss of the Shen family will be finally be getting engaged soon. This is the second time, the young master of the Wang family will be getting married. After his big fairytale wedding seven years ago.

    Looking at the man who destroyed her life five years ago, Yan Mei dug her nails into her palms. She can''t even hate him, because she knows if she was in his ce, she would have done the same thing, but hisck of trust in her destroyed everything!

    He had chosen Lisa Shen. She was beautiful and elegant, not a gold-digger like her. Yan Mei''s lips curled in a self-deprecating smile.

    When Lei Zhao came out of the kitchen, he saw that Yan Mei was a little preupied and her face was not very good. He walked over and turned off the television.

    "Wife, you seem tired. Go and take a shower."

    Yan Mei nodded absentmindedly as she went back to her room. She didn''t see the weird look in the man''s eyes. Lei Zhao frowned.

    ''Why did she have that reaction when she saw the marriage between Wang Lu and Lisa Shen? What''s the rtionship between them? Does his wife has some bad blood with Wang Lu?

    Lei Zhao sighed as he rubbed his head. He remembers reading in the news that famous prosecutor had a wife before, even though he never met her, he heard the rumors too.

    Maybe his wife knows that woman? Lei Zhao had a headache. He really hopes his guess is not true or he wouldn''t know what to do.

    Lei Zhao waited in the living room and leaned back on the sofa and waited for Yan Mei. He kept on looking at the clock on the wall and counted the minutes.

    He was getting worried. Ten minutes since she left and yet she hasn''t appeared yet. He decided that if she doesn''te down within ten minutes, he would go to her room to check up on her.

    Nine minutester, Yan Mei appeared. Lei Zhao''s eyes caught and held hers as he got up from the sofa. "Mr. Lei, I have finished washing, will you go back? Should I give you a ride home?"

    Lei Zhao looked at Yan Mei who had just taken a bath. Due to the shower, her skin looks more delicate and glossy. Her midnight ck hair flowed over her shoulder. Her enticing dark eyes gazed at him over her puffy heart-shaped lips.

    He still remembers the taste of her lips, it tasted like coffee when he kissed her. Her crescent-shaped eyebrows inclined slightly when she saw him staring at her without replying.

    "Wife, today is our wedding night. Don''t tell me you want to sleep alone on your wedding night?"

    Yan Mei blinked at him. Her body became stiff. How can she forget the wedding night? Looking at the dumbstruck on her face, Lei Zhao smirked.

    "Wife, I want to take a bath." Lei Zhao said.

    Yan Mei thought about it for a moment and made a decision.

    "Okay, then wait a minute."

    A few minutester, Yan Mei came back.

    "Mr. Lei, I have ced a new towel on the zed table in the bathroom." Yan Mei said calmly to Lei Zhao.

    **

    After Lei Zhao went to take a bath, Yan Meiy down on the bed in a daze. Lei Zhao who had just taken a bath looked at Yan Mei who was lying on the bed in a daze and frowned unconsciously.

    "Wife, are you thinking about tonight?" Yan Mei turned to look at Lei Zhao when she heard him. She almost screamed when she saw his naked abs and his lower body being wrapped by her bath towel. She ran a frustrated hand through her hand and said to him with a disgruntled expression after she calmed down.

    "Mr. Lei, why aren''t you wearing clothes? And why have you wrapped your lower body part with my towel, don''t you find it weird?"

    After listening to her, Lei Zhao wasn''t angry. He smiled and shrugged his shoulders elegantly and calmly said,

    "Cloths? Wifey, I don''t have the habit of wearing clothes after taking a shower. I didn''t want to scare you with my little brother, that''s why I wrapped it with a towel."

    Yan Mei blushed when she heard him. She has never seen such a shameless person. Before she can find words to refute him, he felt Lei Zhao''s breath on her ears as he whispered softly into her ears.

    "Wife, since we are now married, we should slowly adapt to each other''s habit, okay? Come on, rx, don''t be too nervous. If you''re curious about my little brother I can let you touch him."

    Yan Mei gasped when she heard him. So he sleeps naked every night, this means she will sleep beside his naked body every night? Thinking about this scene, her face quickly reddened. Lei Zhao chuckled nastily when he saw a dumbstruck look.

    "Wife, don''t get too excited yet. A few minutester, you will see my little brother."

    Coughing softly, his words shocked Yan Mei. Even though she was not a virgin, her ex-husband was the only guy she has ever slept, making her a little nervous. Unconsciously her eyes fell on his lower body, she saw his manhood dangling between his legs in the towel. She swallowed, calming down she looked up at him and saw him grinning.

    "Mr. Lei are you sure you''re not mentally ill? Should I make an appointment with a psychiatrist for you? There is no way I''m sleeping with you not wearing clothes."

    Yan Mei lips twitched slightly and it seems she was extremely reluctant to sleep with him naked.

    In Lei Zhao''s eyes, she looked a little silly and cute. He couldn''t control himself anymore as he pulled her into his arms and kissed her.

 Chapter 14 Show me what is rightfully mine

    This sudden kiss frightened her. Lei Zhao whispered softly in her ears, "Close your eyes."

    His thin lips nibbled on Yan Mei''s earlobe, and he breathed lightly beside her ear. A few secondster, Yan Mei''s entire ear turned red and she felt a little itchy.

    Lei Zhao''s gentle and low voice sounded in her ear. "Wife, should we consummate our marriage?" he asked and tilted his head to the side to see her reaction. His eyes narrowed on her as if searching out the answer for himself.

    Yan Mei''s body stiffened for a second before nodding. To be precise, tonight was her wedding night and she wanted to enjoy herself.

    Unconsciously, Yan Mei''s delicate and slender hands gently outlined his neck. This gesture undoubtedly gave Lei Zhao the encouragement that he needed.

    He traced his thumb over her mouth and said roughly, "Wifey, I want to see you."

    With trembling fingers, she reached for the buttons of her white shirt. It took several attempts, but she still opened it. With his gaze on her, she slipped it off. She felt the breeze of air on her bare shoulders, the top of her breasts, and her stomach.

    "Wife, you''re gorgeous," he rasped, "so fucking gorgeous, and you''re all mine. Everything is mine. Come here," he beckoned.

    When Yan Mei reached him, she stretched up on her tiptoes and pressed her lips against his. The softness of her breasts brushed against his chest and he felt her nipples swell with desire.

    Her delicate fingers lightly pulled his hips towards her. She felt his stiffening cock press against her abdomen and she blushed profusely.

    Yan Mei reminded herself that she was married to Lei Zhao now. He was her and so there was nothing to be shy about. She wasn''t really a saint when she was with her ex. He had groomed her to be his little wildcat, so she already knew a lot about sex. The fact that she hadn''t been in close contact with a guy made her a little nervous. Adjusting her mentality, her body rxed and began to enjoy this.

    "Wife, I didn''t know you were this eager," Lei Zhao''s teasing made her rx more, and she got lost in her desire.

    Lei Zhao must have sensed her extreme desire because he lifted her off the floor and carried her to the bed.

    Lei Zhao stripped her of her bra, baring her to him. His big hands moved to her breasts, cupping her and molding her to his pleasure and hers.

    She grasped his shoulders and clung to him. Shepletely lost her ability to think. He lowered his head to kiss her neck, jawlines, ears, and shoulders. Yan Mei closed her eyes as he sucked, licked, and drew his sensual lips and tongue on her skin.

    Yan Mei shivered when she felt his fiery breath on her thighs. She looked up and met his gaze.

    "Wife, let me worship you. You deserve to be worshipped." He swept his lips across her stomach as he licked her belly button. "Please give me permission to worship you.???

    Even though Lei Zhao was on the brink of losing control, there was no way he would continue without her permission.

    "Yes," she breathed, holding the bedsheet tightly. Hearing a firm answer, Lei Zhao smiled and pulled her panties off.

    Lei Zhao slid down, licking every inch of her. Reaching her thighs, he buried his face between her thing and saw that she was already dripping wet with desire.

    He snaked his tongue on the surface of her pussy until he found her swollen pussy lips, then he licked up and down the length of her slit.

    Yan Mei spread her thighs wide apart, then she reached down and used her fingers to pull her pussy lips apart. Lei Zhao buried his thick tongue deep inside her.

    Then he drew his tongue back and plunged it forward again. And again. He kept plunging his tongue in and out of her until she was whimpering. He found the tight bud of her clit and he sucked it between his teeth. He nibbled at it and felt Yan Mei quiver against his face.

    "Oh fuck," she moaned.

    Fisting his hair, Yan Mei did not know if she was trying to pull him away or tug him closer. She didn''t know and couldn''t decide. Lei Zhao was driving her crazy with pleasure. He held her clit between his teeth and ticked the end of it with the tip of his tongue. "Oh, yes!" she cried.

    "You''re so fucking sweet," he rasped, nuzzling her. "So sweet, that I am addicted to you. Wifey, you are only mine, right? I''m a greedy person, and I want all of you," he uttered thest words and then plunged his fingers inside her. Yan Mei''s body shook. She loosened a hand from his hair and pped it over her lips, muffling her cries as she came. Her hips jerked.

    "Please," she begged weakly, pushing his head away. The pleasure was too much for her. He was driving her insane with his tongue and fingers. "I can''t take it anymore."

    Lei Zhao chuckled. "But we are just getting started love," he rumbled.

    He lowered his hand and took her mouth in a fiery kiss. She could taste herself on his lips and tongue.

    Lei Zhao dismantled his towel off and tossed it on the floor. He slipped up and onto her. The head of his cock pressed against her pussy lips for a split second. "Ready love?" Lei Zhao murmured, raising her up slightly. He brought his cock between their bodies. He wrapped her fingers around his thick length.

    "Show me you want me," he ordered, nting his hands on either side of her head, allowing her to be in control.

    Yan Mei''s heart clenched, and her heart thudded against her rib cage. Her hands were steady, though, as she guided him to her entrance.

    She pushed it in as she lifted her hips, taking him inside. She frowned in pain. Since it''s been a long time, she felt tight.

    Lei Zhao groaned, "It''s been a long time?" Yan Mei nodded shyly. Widening her thighs, she didn''t stop until he was deeply buried inside of her. Yan Mei gasped. He was so deep inside her.

    Lei Zhao''s body shook as he entered her. Closing his eyes, he bowed his head and pressed his forehead to hers¡ªhis breath pulsing over her lips.

    Yan Mei wrapped her legs around his and hooked her ankles together behind his knees. Lei Zhao drew back and pressed forward again and again.

    "Aaah!" Yan Mei screamed. Her hips rose to meet each one of his powerful thrusts, and soon they were moving as one as if they had been lovers for a long time. Lei Zhao felt her begin to stiffened and shake as she orgasmed.

    Then she screamed out his name, "Lei Zhao!!!" with a choked cry. She wrapped her hands around his neck.

    Her entire body spasmed beneath him. Then Lei Zhao stiffened above her. His deep, tortured groan echoed in her ears as he cum, sending his hot seed deep inside her. He copsed on top of her. Barely able to breathe, he felt his cock throbbing inside of her.

    A momentter, he rolled off of her. Yan Mei curled up beside him, pressing her heavy breasts against his side and throwing one leg over his leg. Lei Zhao was too wiped out to tease her.

    As Yan Meiid on the bed with Lei Zhao tucked against her side, she finally registered in her head that she was now married again. Just this time it is not out of love, she thought sadly.

    Lei Zhao kissed her forehead. "Wife, you did well."

    Yan Mei said nothing. She was too tired to reply. She felt her eyelids get heavy and unconsciously; she fell asleep.

    Hearing her heavy breathing, Lei Zhao sighed. He picked her up and took her to the bathroom to clean her up. Yan Mei felt him move her, but she was too tired to open her eyes.

    After he was finished, Lei Zhao gently put her on the bed and pulled her into his arms. After closing his eyes, his heart slowly calmed down.

 Chapter 15 Married the right person

    Through the white curtain, the sunlight reflected on Yan Mei''s face. She slowly opened her eyes. She looked at the sun through the window and rubbed her eyes.

    She slightly turned her head. Yan Mei was in a daze for a few seconds and saw Lei Zhao was still sleeping. His face was pure and clean, just like a newborn baby. It brought her into an inexplicably good mood.

    "Good morning wife. Are you satisfied watching your handsome husband?" Lei Zhao suddenly opened his eyes and caught Yan Mei staring at him. Yan Mei deliberately avoided his gaze because she was a little embarrassed.

    "Not satisfied. But I''m not dissatisfied either," she replied, making Lei Zhao furrowed his brows and light up his extremely charming eyes in amusement. His thin lips formed into a smile.

    "Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied? As long as my wife is not scared of my look, then I''m good. It seems that you have good eyes, my wife. You married the right person."

    Yan Mei didn''t know whether or not she shouldugh or cry at his remarks. This is the first time she has been with such a shameless person. He didn''t even blink an eye when he was praising himself.

    Just as she was about to scorn him, Lei Zhao''s phone rang. At this time, Yan Mei realized that she had slept on Lei Zhao''s hand. Surprisingly, she realized that she did not hate his touch. She feltfortable, like this feeling was natural.

    Lei Zhao picked up the phone on the table and pressed the call button. After a while, Yan Mei only heard him say, "Okay. I will be there in an hour." Then he hung up the phone. Lei Zhao rubbed the hand that Yan Mei had slept on.

    "Is your hand hurting? I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to sleep on your hand throughout the night." Seeing her face flush slightly and her head lowered, Lei Zhao ruffled her hair gently.

    "Wifey, you don''t have to feel sorry. This is your exclusive right as Mrs. Lei and you can continue to exercise this right in the future."

    Yan Mei was too tossed aboutst night to deal with his shamelessness right now. Seeing the tired look in her eyes, Lei Zhao rubbed her waist gently.

    "Wife, were you satisfied with my strengthst night?"

    Yan Mei nodded her head lightly and her beautiful puffy lips lifted slightly, "It''s not the best, but it''s still passable."

    Lei Zhao chuckled. "It seems that I have to work harder next time. But if Mrs. Lei gives me a good morning kiss, I will not only feel satisfied, but I would be ecstatic."

    Recalling that he had to go somewhere in an hour, Yan Mei looked at the clock and saw that he had only forty-five minutes left to get ready.

    "Shouldn''t you get up and take a bath, since you are going somewhere in an hour?" Yan Mei had the day off today and she was not in a hurry to get up.

    In order not to dy Lei Zhao from getting ready, she had no choice but to raise her head and drop a kiss on his cheek. She hurriedly sat up and kept her distance from him. She suddenly blushed.

    Seeing that his aloof wife was a shy person, Lei Zhao''s mouth unconsciously raised, sketching out the arc of a crescent moon. He also sat up from the bed and pulled the shy woman into his arms. He nted a kiss on her forehead and started nting kisses all over her face.

    "Lei Zhao! What are you doing! Go take a bath!"

    Yan Mei felt a little ufortable because she suddenly remembered a scene where Wang Lu embraced her tightly and nted kisses on her face:

    "Meimei, you know I love you right?" Wang Lu said as he stared at her as if she was the only person in the world.

    "Silly. Of course, I know," the young girl said as she wrapped her hands around his neck and pulled him close for a kiss.

    "Wifey, are you okay?" Lei Zhao''s words brought Yan Mei, whose thoughts flew a little too far, back to the present. Yan Mei raised her head and saw that Lei Zhao was naked in front of her. Yan Mei''s eyes nearly bulged out when she saw his huge manhood in front of her. Yan Mei''s entire face, even her neck and ears, turned red. She closed her eyes to prevent herself from looking at his manhood again.

    "Mr. Lei, will you please quickly put your clothes on?" she said with her eyes still tightly closed.

    She didn''t know if Lei Zhao was intentionally teasing her or not. She realized that this guy, in a blink of an eye, can make her lose control of her emotions. All the masks she built seemed to crumble when she was with him.

    One minute went by and she still didn''t hear an answer from him. Yan Mei coldly asked again, "Mr. Lei, have you put on your clothes?"

    Looking at Yan Mei, who was tightly closing her eyes, brought a charming smile to Lei Zhao''s face.

    "Wife, how will you know if you don''t open your eyes?"

    Yan Mei pursed her lips together and opened her left eye first. She saw that he had covered himself with a towel. She breathed out a sigh of relief. Lei Zhao squatted in front of her.

    "Can you not be so cute? We are already husband and wife, so you have to slowly adapt to me. Also, you already saw it, so why are you being shy about it?"

    "Aren''t you going to take a bath?" Yan Mei asked tly, trying to hide her awkwardness.

    Lei Zhao nodded his head and smiled softly. "Okay, I will go and take a bath."

    A few minutester, Lei Zhao came back from the shower and realized that Yan Mei went back to sleep. It seemed that his wife was tired fromst night. He did not want to disturb her, so he got dressed and left the room quietly.

 Chapter 16 Evil mother-in-law

    When Yan Mei woke up, her body was not as sore as before, and she saw the traces that he left all over her body. She didn''t realize it when she woke up earlier.

    She got up from the bed and saw a note on the table that said, "Wifey, rest at home today. I have prepared porridge in the kitchen. Remember to drink it while it''s still warm. I willeter and take you to our home. Take care!"

    Yan Mei looked at the note several times and put it back on the table. She washed up and went down to the kitchen. She saw that he had put the food in an insted bowl to keep it warm. Her originally indifferent face softened. After drinking her coffee, she was still too tired to do anything. She didn''t even recall how long he tossed her the day before. She returned to the bedroom to take a bath.

    *****

    Lei Zhao sighed as he stared at his mother.

    "How are you mother?" he asked as he gave her a polite kiss on her cheek. Lei Xiao Tong stered a serene smile on her face as she began to walk around the room.

    "How do you think I''m feeling when my almost thirty years old son is not married yet? All my friends have grandchildren already. Tonight, you will be going to the charity ball with me."

    "I''m not interested in your friends'' debutante daughters, mother," Lei Zhao protested softly. He wanted to wait a while before he introduced Yan Mei to his family, but it seemed he had no choice but to do it now or his mother would not leave him alone.

    "Humor the woman who gave birth to you, Lei Zhao." Another sigh escaped his lips and he resigned to watching the clock as his mother kept talking about the importance of him getting married.

    "I''m already married mom," Lei Zhao abruptly interrupted his mother. Lei Xiao Tong opened her mouth in surprise and looked at him.

    "What did you say?" She thought that she was hallucinating.

    "Yes, mom. I got married yesterday," Lei Zhao said nonchntly as he leaned on the sofa.

    "Lei Zhao, I hope you''re not lying to me." Lei Zhao shook his head helplessly in reply.

    "If you want to meet your daughter-inw soon, let me go now. I promise you, I will bring her to the old house very soon."

    Lei Xiao Tong looked at her son for a minute before agreeing to letting him go. Even though she thought that he was lying, she decided to believe him.

    "Okay. You can go, but if I don''t see her in three days, I will arrange a marriage for you," Lei Xiao Tong said.

    Lei Zhao kissed her cheeks and nodded slightly.

    "Mom, I hope you like her. Don''t make things difficult for her when you see her. Also, she doesn''t know who I am yet, so don''t scare her away."

    "You stinky boy. You''re already teaching me how to treat my daughter-inw?"

    Lei Zhao smiled as he walked towards the door. When he opened the door, he turned back and saw his mom, deep in thought.

    "I love you mom," he yelled at his mother. Without waiting for her response, he walked out the door.

    Lei Zhao was always a good boy in front of his mom. He had been spoiled by his mother and elder brother since he was born, making him a carefree person. While his elder brother was cold and alienated, Lei Zhao was amiable and lively. Unfortunately, his elder brother died, making him reserved. But in front of his mother, he was still a little boy.

    He remembered when he got into a fight in high school and the principal called his mom. His mom argued that her son was a good boy who would never hurt a fly, so how could he beat someone up?

    Little did Lei Xiao Tong know that her good son was a demon who hid his ws and fangs under his handsome and pure face. He wouldn''t even blink an eye killing somebody.

    When Lei Zhao came home, he saw no movement in the house. He went upstairs and pushed the bedroom door open. He saw Yan Mei packing her things.

    "Wifey, do you need help?" Yan Mei turned around to look at Lei Zhao when she heard him. Flipping her hair over her shoulder, she shook her head.

    "I''m done."

    Lei Zhao sat on the bed and looked at her.

    "Wifey, I met mom today. She wants to meet you, but there is no pressure if you don''t want to. We will go when you''re ready."

    Yan Mei''s body stiffened. Was she ready to face her mother-inw? She knew Wang Lu''s mother never liked her. Her nose was always in the air as if Yan Mei was below her. It was still vivid in Yan Mei''s mind, the contemptment and the way her Wang Lu''s mother would look at her with disgust written all over her face.

    Will Lei Zhao''s mother like a woman that married her son in a sh marriage? Thinking about having to face another evil mother-inw made her mood drop.

    "I finished packing. Let''s go." Lei Zhao helped her bring her bags downstairs and smiled mysteriously.

    "Wife, I don''t have a car yet, so we have to use your car."

    Yan Mei raised her eyebrows, but didn''t say anything. When they reached the car, she gave the keys to Lei Zhao and sat in the front passenger''s seat. Yan Mei leaned her head against the window, resting her chin on her elbow and closed her eyes.

    A few minutester, Yan Mei felt a shadow settle across her. She immediately opened her eyes. The murderous glint in her eyes disappeared when she realized it was Lei Zhao busily covering her with a quilt. He did not notice the murderous glint that passed through her eyes and she took a deep breath, which calmed her emotions.

    She nced outside the window and said, "We aren''t there yet?"

    Lei Zhao nced at her.

    "We are almost there. I saw you sleeping, so I covered you with the quilt. I was afraid that you might catch a cold."

 Chapter 17 Her only regre

    Yan Mei looked at him with a nk look. Last night was one of the best nights of her life in years. It was the first time in five years that she could sleep for that long. She rarely slept well at night. If she falls asleep, nightmares or even an assassination would wait for her. She always had to be vignt, otherwise, that was the end of her.

    In the business world, she had offended way too many people that allowed her to be on top in just three years. She had to be ruthless to survive. Fortunately, her enemies in the business world were taken care of and her father did well in hiding her identity so that no one from the other side woulde looking for her.

    Even if she was not in danger anymore, she still could not sleep well. She found out yesterday that the man beside her helped her sleep well.

    Lei Zhao saw theplicated emotions in her eyes and couldn''t help feeling soft for her.

    "Wifey, when we get to the house, I will cook for you okay?"

    Yan Mei raised her head and met his soft and pampering eyes. Her heart was ufortable, and she subconsciously blurted out, "Okay."

    Lei Zhao''s deep eyes brightened. His tight face suddenly eased and his lips bent gently into a smile. Yan Mei didn''t speak anymore. Although her face was still indifferent, she couldn''t help but feel her heart soften.

    A few minutester, Lei Zhao drove the car to a high-endmunity and parked the car into the parking lot. When they reached his apartment, Lei Zhao tried reaching for his keys in his pocket but was having a tough time finding it with all the bags he was holding.

    Looking at his anxious face, Yan Mei said, "Let me help you." She reached out and looked for the key in his back pocket. Lei Zhao couldn''t help but swallow the lump in his throat. He never thought he was an indulgent person, but in the face of his little temptress, he couldn''t control himself. He tries to stabilize his body. With a hoarse voice, he couldn''t help but ask, "Have you found it?"

    The soft light scattered on the man''s face, showing his perfectly handsome facial features. For the first time, she paid attention to the man''s features. She had to say; he was a very handsome man. She never really paid attention to him, but even Wang Lu, whom she had loved, couldn''tpare to him. Wang Lu was cold and there was always a murderous aura around his body, but this man exudes a gentle and warm aura.

    "Yeah, I found it."

    Lei Zhao smiled embarrassedly because he was getting anxious. He did not even think about searching his back pocket.

    He took the key and opened the apartment door. He turned on the lights and waited until Yan Mei came in. She walked in and looked at the structure of the apartment. It was notrge. It had 3 bedrooms, a kitchen, a dining room, a living room, a study room, and a balcony. It was the perfect apartment for a family of three.

    When they got to the bedroom, she was impressed to see that the room was neat and clean. She could see the neon light of the city through the big floor to ceiling window.

    ''The night view from here would be excellent.'' she thought.

    By the time they finished packing, it was alreadyte, so Lei Zhao cooked dinner for them. After they finished eating, Yan Mei went to take a shower. Yan Mei finished getting ready for bed and walked to the window. She opened the curtain and looked at the city''s neon lights and high-rise buildings.

    Meanwhile, Lei Zhao went to the bathroom to take a shower after being so ufortable with the sweat on his body from all the activities he did today.

    Yan Mei stood by the window thinking about how it has already been 5 years. She had changed a lot in these years. Her favorite time of the day was still at night, though. At night she could rest for a while, think about her mother, think about how she hated that man, and think about her child. Her poor baby.

    Thinking about her child, Yan Mei''s eyes filled with pain. Her only regret was that she couldn''t be with her child. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath.

    When Lei Zhao came out from the bathroom, he saw her standing in front of the window looking at the neon city. He walked towards her and hugged her from behind. He didn''t like how she looked so deste as if the whole world had abandoned her.

    "What are you looking at?" Yan Mei''s body stiffened from the hug, but rxed hearing his familiar voice. She turned around and saw his lower body covered with a towel and his hair still wet. His facial features were extremely handsome under the bright light and his deep eyes were gently looking at her.

    Drops of water fell from his hair to his cheeks, down to his neck and chest, and slowly made its way to his bath towel. It was extremely sexy. Yan Mei blushed slightly. She turned her head away and nced out the window again.

    "I think these neon lights are beautiful."

    Lei Zhao lowered his head and pressed his forehead against hers.

    "Hmm, beautiful."

    Yan Mei did not know if he was referring to her or the neon lights. He picked her up and put her on the bed. His lips found hers in a deep and passionate kiss. His hands tangled in her hair, holding her head back. With her neck bare, he trailed kisses and sucked on her tender skin.

    Yan Mei gasped and couldn''t help but touch his chest. She was still ufortable after yesterday''s tossing. Her brows were slightly wrinkled. With his keenness, Lei Zhao naturally felt her difort. He anxiously asked, "Wifey, what''s wrong?"

    Yan Mei looked at him, and her heart warmed. This man was very careful and keen. She looked at his eyes and saw that there was no hypocrisy, just genuine concern. She blushed and hurriedly looked away, blurting out, "I''m tired."

 Chapter 18 Nightmare

    A peal ofughter passes through her ears from above. His voice was gentle and soft.

    "You mean you''re still sore?" he asked and looked at her seriously. Yan Mei''s eyes met his and saw his eyes full of joy. She blushed and just as she was about to look away, Lei Zhao held her head to prevent her from looking away.

    Yan Mei looked at him in panic. Was he going to force her? Seeing her eyes full of panic, Lei Zhao sighed helplessly. He kissed her forehead gently and took a deep breath.

    "Since you are tired, I won''t do anything to you. Sleep wifey. Dream about me."

    Yan Mei was stunned at what she heard him say. She thought he would force her, since it was his right. She never thought that he would hold back. She did not know how to react. She unconsciously licked her lips and wrinkled her brows slightly. Lei Zhao was bewitched as he stared at her licking her lips. His body reacted as he felt his blood boil.

    He suddenly held her head and kissed her hard. After a while, he released her and smiled in satisfaction when he saw her swollen lips. He hugged her tightly in his arms.

    "Sleep."

    ***

    In the middle of the night, Yan Mei had a dream. She saw a little girl ying in the grass. The girl was about five years old. She turned around when she felt someone behind her. Yan Mei stiffened when she saw the girl''s face. The girl looked exactly like her when she was a child. Her eyes and nose were just like her ex husband''s.

    "Mommy!" The child giggled and ran into her arms.

    Yan Mei bursted into tears, feeling her daughter in her arms.

    "Mommy, why are you crying? Aren''t you happy to see Wang Mei?" The girl''s soft voice was filled with sadness. Yan Mei stiffened. She wiped her tears and forced a smile.

    "No, mom is very happy. Mom is crying because she is happy to see little Wang Mei." The child kissed Yan Mei''s cheeks and smiled. Her smile was so pure. Yan Mei''s heart hurt when she saw her daughter''s pure smile.

    "Mommy, Wang Mei wants you to be happy. Don''t me yourself, mommy. Wang Mei wants to see mom smile because mom looks the best when she smiles. Promise Wang Mei, mommy, that you will be happy from now on."

    Yan Mei bursted out into tears.

    "Mommy, Wang Mei doesn''t have a lot of time. Promise me, mommy."

    Yan Mei felt the body in her arms begin to disappear. She panicked. "Mommy promises to be happy! Don''t go Wang Mei! Mommy will listen to you!"

    "I love you, mommy," Wang Mei whispered as she disappeared. Yan Mei bursted out in tears again.

    "My baby, I love you too! My poor baby! Don''t go!"

    ***

    Lei Zhao woke up when he felt his shoulder dampen with tears. He turned on the light. His brows furrowed, adjusting to the light and then he began to panic when he saw tears on Yan Mei''s cheeks. He heard her faintly crying out for a baby.

    "My baby, don''t leave mommy."

    Lei Zhao shook her, trying to wake her up. Yan Mei woke up suddenly to her body being shaken by someone. Her eyes were blurred from the tears. She looked around as if she was searching for something or someone.

    She held Lei Zhao''s arms and asked aggressively, "Where is my baby?"

    She shook him when he didn''t respond. Lei Zhao was shocked seeing her like this. Her face was stained with tears and her eyes were empty. Due to the shock, it took him a while to respond.

    "Yan Mei, there is no baby here. If you want, we can have a baby okay?" Lei Zhao pulled her into his arms and hugged her tightly. He was scared seeing her like this, crying out for a child that was not his. Lei Zhao had to admit, he was being selfish, but he was afraid that she would leave him one day.

    He knew that she didn''t love him and maybe he didn''t love her too because there is no way he would fall in love with someone he had known for a few days.

    He was sexually attracted to her though and he could see himself falling in love with her. It was just a matter of time, so he didn''t want to lose her. Maybe somewhere in his heart, a feeling had started budding. Yan Mei began to struggle when she heard him. She pushed him away.

    "No! I don''t want another baby. I just want my baby," Yan Mei said and shook her head.

    "Okay. We will find your baby," Lei Zhao said softly, his voice full of pampering.

    Yan Mei smiled deprecating, "You don''t understand¡­"

    Lei Zhao pulled her back into his arms and patted her back softly. Yan Mei silently sobbed into his chest unceasingly, her hands clenched into shaking fists. Lei Zhao held her in silence, rocking her slowly. Yan Mei felt her heart hurt so much!

    Lei Zhao was heartbroken seeing her like this, all he could do was embrace her and let the torrent of her tears soak his chest. He could feel her clenched fists and understood that she was going through a lot. It seemed that this child meant a lot to her. He ran his fingers through her hair in an attempt to calm her down.

    Suddenly she started hyperventting. Lei Zhao felt the change and pulled her back. Seeing her hyperventting, he kissed her. Instead of his normal aggressive kiss, this kiss was slow and gentle. It was the only way he could show her he wanted tofort her and tell her that he was with her and would never leave her.

    When Yan Mei''s breath returned to normal, he released her and kissed her forehead gently. He then pulled her into his arms and said softly, "Sleep."

    As if his voice was a spell or because she was emotionally tired, Yan Mei felt her eyelids drop. She fell into a deep sleep and this time she didn''t have a nightmare.

    Lei Zhao stared at her withplicated emotions. He thought, ''Baby? Does she have a child with another man? If she did have a child, where is it? With the father?''

    This was his first time encountering a situation like this. He did not even know where to start. Sighing, he went to the bathroom, wet a towel, and came back to clean her face. After he was done, Lei Zhao took a pack of cigarettes and went to the balcony.

    He rarely smoked. He only does it when he is in a bad mood. He picked up his phone and dialed Ye Xing''s number.

    "Boss," Ye Xing''s voice sounded hoarse, as if just waking up from sleeping.

    "I want you to investigate Miss Yan again."

    "But Boss¡­" Ye Xing was a little embarrassed. This was the first time that he couldn''t find a person''s background information in S City.

    Hearing his hesitation, Lei Zhao raised his brows. "What?"

    "It seems that a very powerful person is protecting Miss Yan. Even I can''t find anything about her except for the information about three years ago when she appeared in S City. It seems that she was the one who came to the door of the Yan family, iming to be the lost young miss with a DNA report and a picture of Grandpa Yan''s daughter who ran away because of her arranged marriage, Mr. Li. There are only four families who can hide their identity in this country, the top three families in City M and the royal family. If my guess is correct, Miss Yan must be connected to these families somehow."

    Lei Zhao squeezed his brows tiredly. "Mmm."

    After that, he hung up the call. He looked at the moon in the sky and fell into deep thought.

    "Wifey, who are you?" Lei Zhao whispered into the quiet night.

 Chapter 19 Taking a bath

    The next day, Yan Mei woke up with a headache. She almost had no strength to open her eyes. Lei Zhao woke up suddenly to her movement and looked at her quietly.

    Yan Mei felt a bit awkward. She didn''t know what to say to him and she was afraid that he would ask about her nightmarest night. She wasn''t ready to tell him what she had been through.

    "Good morning wifey. How are you?" Lei Zhao said as he gently kissed her forehead. Yan Mei looked at him and saw that he had no ns of asking her about what happenedst night. That put her at ease and she suddenly rxed.

    "Good morning. I''m fine, you?" she muttered. Lei Zhao smiled and pulled her into his arms.

    "I have the most beautiful woman lying next to me, of course, I''m good." Yan Mei rolled her eyes to his reply.

    "I''m going to take a bath," Yan Mei muttered.

    Lei Zhao picked her up after hearing her words and walked towards the bathroom. Yan Mei stared at him with wide eyes. She did not expect him to pick her up and bring her to the bathroom.

    "You can go out, I will bathe myself." Lei Zhao looked at her pale face and put her down. He picked up a sponge and a bottle of shower gel, ready to to help her take a bath. Yan Mei''s face changed, a little embarrassed.

    Although they were now married and they had sex, she still felt ufortable doing such an intimate thing like taking a bath together. So she hurriedly refused.

    Lei Zhao''s face turned sullen. For his wife to refuse him when he wanted to help her take a bath displeased him. His heart was lost in confusion. Afterst night, he realized that if he didn''t work hard to make his little temptress fall in love with him quickly, she might leave him one day.

    Before the baby and the father appears, he must make her obsessed with him. He knew his thoughts were selfish and he must be depriving the child from having aplete home, but the fact that she married him showed that she was ready to move on right? He didn''t mind being a stepfather to her child. He would love the child as his own.

    Yan Mei could see the disappointment on his face and it made her feel bad. When Lei Zhao was about to give up, he didn''t expect her to suddenly start undressing.

    Lei Zhao''s eyes lit up and his face was full of excitement. He took the bath sponge, poured gel on it, andthered it. He made her sit in the bathtub and turned on the water. He then ran the soapy, wet bath sponge all over her skin, starting from her neck, then her shoulder, down her arms and over her breasts.

    This was the first time he was helping a woman take a bath. Her body was soft unlike his own hard body. Lei Zhao forced down his sexual attraction and focused on the task at hand. Yan Mei did not know at the moment, but her decision today would make someone obsessed with bathing her every single time.

    Yan Mei shuddered when she felt the bath sponge on her breasts. Lei Zhao smirked seeing her reaction. Yan Mei felt a tingling sensation between her legs that she couldn''t ignore.

    Lei Zhao continued over her little belly and her hips. Slowly he ran the washcloth down the sides of her hips and her legs, deliberately avoiding touching her. Yan Mei knew he was teasing her, but she didn''t want to give in. She gritted her teeth to prevent herself from making any noise.

    "Turn around so I can wash your back," Lei Zhao said softly. Yan Mei obediently turned around. When she felt the washcloth on her back, she stiffened, but after she realized that he wouldn''t do anything, she rxed. Lei zhao started from her shoulders and worked his way down to her hips. Then he went back to her sides.

    "Raise your arms," he told her huskily and Yan Mei obeyed. He washed underneath her arms and the side of her breasts. Then he began to wash her ass. When Yan Mei felt his hands on her ass, she nearly lost control. She thought he would touch her, but then she suddenly heard Lei Zhao''s voice.

    "Wash between your legs wifey. If I do it, you might bete for work. Or worse, you won''t have the strength to go to work." Yan Mei blushed in reply. After she was done, she heard Lei Zhao say, "Time to wash your hair wifey."

    Yan Mei sat in the tub with a sulky expression on her face. She thought he would touch her, but he didn''t. Lei Zhao turned away to reach for the shampoo Yan Mei saw him with a broad smile on his face when he turned back to look at her. Seeing her sulky expression, Lei Zhao couldn''t help, but tease her.

    "Don''t worry wife. When youe back from work, I will make it up to you."

    Yan Mei snorted in reply. "Who wants you to do something? Hurry up or I will bete for work." Lei Zhaoughed, but didn''t argue with her.

    "Wet it for me wifey." Yan Mei gulped, her thought running wild. After a couple of seconds, she realized that he was talking about her hair.

    ''Concentrate Yan Mei! Don''t let him know the effect that he has on you,'' Yan Mei thought.

    Yan Mei wet her hair and Lei Zhao goes on to thoroughly shampoo and condition her hair, massaging it into her scalp. After he was done, he washed her.

    Lei Zhao reached for the big fluffy towel. He ced it on one arm and extended his hand to catch hers as she stepped over the side of the bathtub to the bath mat. He gently wiped her with a smile on his face and when he finished, he kissed her forehead.

    Lei Zhao went on ahead to go cook breakfast while she got dressed for work. When Yan Mei finished getting dressed and preparing for thepany, Lei Zhao had already finished cooking. Yan Mei came down to the dining room and saw breakfast on the table.

    A ss of milk, a sandwich that contained vegetables, sliced cheese, and meat. Yan Mei felt warm. She thought that maybe marrying Lei Zhao wasn''t such a bad idea.

    "Wife,e and eat," Lei Zhao beckoned. After she finished eating, Lei Zhao drove her to thepany and told her that he would pick her up when she was finished with work.

    Yan Mei didn''t know that because she waste for work today, her mother-inw had been standing at the entrance of herpany for nearly an hour, waiting for her.

 Chapter 20 Meeting the mother-in-law

    Ten minutes after Lei Zhao dropped Yan Mei off at thepany, his mother called him. Lei Zhao sat on his desk, holding the phone in one hand and a pen in the other, looking through documents that Ye Xing submitted.

    Looking at the caller''s ID on the phone screen, he blinked and smiled slightly.

    "Hello mom. Is there something wrong?"

    Lei Xiao Tong smiled and said, "Lei Zhao, I am at Yan Mei''spany. Did shee to work today? I have been waiting for her for almost an hour, but I don''t see her." Lei Xiao Tong''s sweet voice filled with joy and impatience undisguisedly passed through Lei Zhao''s ears. He rubbed his temples.

    "Mom. Why did you go to herpany to find her? Didn''t I tell you that I would bring her home for dinner in three days? If you suddenly appear like this, she will be terrified," Lei Zhao said helplessly.

    He knew that his little temptress was nervous about meeting his mother from her bodynguage. Every time he talked about meeting his mother, her expression would change. If she saw her mother-inw today, he didn''t know how she would react.

    "No, no!" Lei Xiao Tong retorted immediately.

    " I''m not a bad mother-inw. I just came to see my daughter-inw. I wandered in the mall for a long time yesterday, trying to find the perfect gift to give her. I didn''t know what to buy, after all, my daughter-inw doesn''tck money. So, I have decided to give her our family heirloom. Your grandmother said that it should be passed on to your wife. What do you think? Also, I have been having sleepless nights thinking about my daughter-inw. The inte is full of bullying, calling her all sorts of names. Who dares to call my daughter-inw a devil! Just because she is a woman in the business world, they want to bully her. I want her to know that she has a mother now supporting her."

    Lei Zhao raised his brows helplessly. He knew his mother was anxious to see her daughter-inw and once his mother wanted to do something, no one could change her mind.

    "Mom, she came to work. I dropped her off, but she didn''t pass through the entrance. I think she used her private elevator or she has her own passage. So, go to the front desk to ask for her. Don''t scare her mom."

    "I know. Bye!" Lei Xiao Tong hurriedly hung up the call.

    Lei Xiao Tong walked to the elevator with her bag in hand. She was anxious to meet her daughter-inw. The more her son tried to protect her, the more curious she was. Taking the elevator to the 15th floor, she met Su Mei sitting outside Yan Mei''s office.

    Because Lei Xiao Tong was curious about her daughter-inw, she did her own investigations about her. Sadly, she couldn''t find anything about her past. As a famous but lowkey scientist and the daughter of the Ying family, one of the top three families in S city, if she couldn''t find anything on the past of her daughter-inw, that means that her daughter-inw was a very powerful person or she didn''t exist all these years.

    Lei Xiao Tong didn''t know if Yan Mei was an enemy or a friend. That is why she was curious to meet her.

    Su Bei was working attentively on documents, when all of a sudden a faint fragrance hit her nose. She remembered the smell. It was thetest perfume released by Rosy fragrance, the leading perfumepany in the country. She always wanted one, but she did dare buy one because of how expensive it was.

    She lifted her head and the beautiful and refined face of Lei Xiao Tong appeared. Su Bei looked at thedy in front of her in surprise. Even though she couldn''t see the brands of the clothes she was wearing, Su Bei knew this woman was not an ordinary person. She was elegant from the way she carried herself and she looked like some in her thirties, but Su Bei knew that she was older than that.

    "Hello. How may I help you," Su Bei asked politely.

    "I want to see President Yan. Is she avable?"

    "Do you have an appointment madam?" Lei Xiao tong was a little embarrassed. How could she forget such a thing? Just as Lei Xiao tong was about to answer, Yan Mei came out of her office.

    "President Yan," Su Bei greeted respectfully. Because someone was here, she didn''t want to disrespect Yan Mei. Yan Mei nodded.

    "How are you?" Yan Mei asked softly.

    Su Bei smiled and replied, "I''m fine."

    Yan Mei turned when she felt someone gazing at her. She saw a woman staring at her, her eyes contained different emotions: shock, admiration, curiosity, and happiness. Seeing the ambiguous look in the woman''s eyes, Yan Mei felt inexplicably strange.

    "Madam, are you okay?" Yan Mei would have normally ignored such a person, but today her instincts told her not to. Lei Xiao Tong looked at Yan Mei and she was satisfied at the moment. She just smiled, didn''t answer, and took a step forward.

    Yan Mei stepped back, a cold light passed through her eyes. "What do you want?"

    At this time, Lei Xiao Tong looked at Yan Mei''s cold demeanor and felt more satisfied. If a woman wanted to be with her son, she must be strong and know how to protect herself. If not, she would drag her son behind, or even worse, fall for other people''s schemes. A woman must know how to fight for her man and she was sure her daughter-inw would not disappoint her.

    She took Yan Mei''s hands and said, "Xiaomei, I''m Lei Zhao''s mother. I learned that you worked here, so I came to visit you."

    Yan Mei suddenly opened her mouth and her whole body fell into a state of shock. She snapped out of it when she felt something on her wrist. She saw a green ss-type jade bracelet on her wrist. From the looks of it, it looked like a family heirloom.

    "It looks so beautiful and it fits perfectly on your wrist. This means you''re destined to be my daughter-inw," Lei Xiao Tong said excitedly.

    "Autie, I can''t ept this." Yan Mei didn''t think that she would meet her mother-inw like this.

    ''Aren''t mother-inws supposed to be evil? Why was she so happy to see her, even giving her their family heirloom? Was she ying tricks on her?'' Due to her experience, Yan Mei was finding it difficult to ept this.

    Lei Xiao Tong calmly held Yan Mei''s hands. "Xiaomei, don''t you like your mother-inw?" I had to wait nearly an hour for you at the entrance and now you won''t even ept my gift?"

    Yan Mei swallowed the lump in her throat and felt a little embarrassed. "No Auntie! It''s just that this is too much for me to ept."

    "If you don''t ept this, then I''m not leaving. It means that you don''t recognize me as your mother-inw. Where will you find such a beautiful mother-inw like me? Also, isn''t my son good to you? Tell me if that stinky boy is not treating you right."

    Yan Mei hurriedly shook her head. "No, no. Lei Zhao is really good."

    Lei Xiao Tong smiled. "Then it''s settled. You''ll take this. I have an appointment with someone near yourpany. Once I finish, I will invite you for lunch. Take care!"

    Lei Xiao Tong hurriedly left as she was afraid Yan Mei would change her mind and give the bracelet back to her. Yan Mei blinked. If not for the bracelet on her hand that reminded her of what just happened, she would have thought that everything was an illusion.

    "Su Bei, what just happened?" Yan Mei muttered.

    "You just met the famous mother-inw, but instead of her being evil, she is just so cool."

    Yan Mei looked at the bracelet in a daze.

    "Hmm."

 Chapter 21 Iâ€™m not that kind of mother-in-law

    When Yan Mei returned to her desk, she quickly texted Lei Zhao with her mobile phone. Luckily, she had collected his number this morning.

    "Why didn''t you tell me that auntie wille here today? You don''t know how nervous I was. Do you think she likes me? Also, was she angry about the sh marriage? What gift should I prepare for her? She said she wille back and invite me for lunchter, can you apany me? I don''t want to go alone with her."

    In a hurry Yan Mei sent the text after it was sent, she suddenly regretted it. Why did she write that? Will Lei Zhao think she hates his mother?

    She squeezed her phone nervously with her brows bumped together in a scowl and decided to send another message to exin herself but her phone buzzed indicating that she had a message.

    Lei Zhao looked at the message sent by his wife and sighed. It seems this is the first time his wife had said so many things to him at once. It seems she is really afraid of his mother. But why is she afraid of his mother? He knows his mother will not bully his wife so why is she so nervous?

    But thinking about his mysterious wife Lei Zhao knew maybe she had her reasons. He could only hope that one day she would trust him enough to tell him everything.

    "Wifey, if you are notfortable with being alone with her, just tell her. Don''t worry mom will understand."

    Yan Mei looked at the text and frowned, her expression was tangled. After a while, she just replied,

    "I''m just not ready." Yan Mei didn''t dislike her mother-inw or didn''t want to eat with him or his family is just that everything was moving too fast for her.

    "I understand, I will apany mom for lunch don''t worry." Lei Zhao replied.

    Yan Mei felt bad, thinking about the woman''s enthusiasm when she saw her, even if it''s fake, she knew it was rude to decline her invitation.

    "See youter, I will go." Yan Mei replied with her forehead puckered.

    "Okay, take care, wifey."

    Yan Mei looked at Lei Zhao''s message for a while before putting the phone down and buried herself in her work.

    At exactly noon, Su Bei called her that Lei Xiao Tong was waiting for her outside. Lei Xiao Tong looked at Su Bei who was speaking to Yan Mei and smiled slightly.

    Su Bei was tall and had a delicate facial feature. Even though, she wasn''t wearing makeup her skin was very good. Lei Xiao Tong thought that if Su Bei gives birth, her child will be very beautiful. A scheming light passed through Lei Xiao Tong''s eyes.

    Thinking about her nephew who wasn''t married yet, Lei Xiao Tong thought Su Bei would be the perfect wife for him.

    She knew Su Bei was the only friend of Yan Mei but she was very humble and worked diligently without taking advantage of her friendship with Yan Mei.

    Su Bei hung up the call and turned to look at Lei Xiao Tong.

    "Madam, she said she will be out in a minute. Do you need anything while you wait?" Su Bei said politely.

    Lei Xiao Tong smiled,

    "Miss Su, do you have a boyfriend" Su Bei froze when she heard her.

    "No, madam I don''t have a boyfriend." Su Bei was a little embarrassed when she said this. She is almost twenty-five but she had never had a boyfriend. She was too busy working and taking care of her mother to engage in a rtionship. Also, she was waiting for him. Thinking about that man, Su Bei lips set in a grim line.

    Lei Xiao Tong smiled when she heard her.

    "Good, I know a nice guy I will introduce you to him." Lei Xiao tong said softly.

    Su Bei blushed when she heard her.

    "No-"

    "Auntie, did I make you wait for a long time?" Yan Mei''s voice interrupted Su Bei.

    Lei Xiao Tong stepped forward with a smile, took Yan Mei''s hand and said,

    "You, young girls have read a lot of books and watch a lot of dramas with bad mothers-inw. Don''t be afraid of me, I''m not that kind of person. I am the kind of mother-inw who will protect her daughter-inw, so if anyone bullies you, even if it''s Lei Zhao don''t hesitate to tell me. I will help you fight! My daughter-inw can bully others but others can''t bully her. We are now a family, so don''t be afraid."

    Yan Mei stode frozen and ck-jawed. She didn''t know what to say.

    ''Was God pitying her by giving her such a good mother-inw? The first one treated her like dirt and now her new mother-inw whom she barely knew was saying she would protect her. Can she trust her?'' Yan Mei thought.

    Yan Mei didn''t know that her mother-inw will be her biggest backer in the future, always spoiling her.

    Looking at the lost look on Yan Mei''s face, Lei Xiao Tong smiled softly,

    "You''re cute."

    Yan Mei bit her lips and nced away when she heard her.

    "Lei Zhao told me that we should go to the western restaurant across the street, he said you like eating there. Let''s go."

    When they reached the ce, they saw Lei Zhao waiting for them. He was wearing formal attire and was leaning on her car waiting for them at the parking lot.

    Yan Mei eyes grew wider she did not expect to see him standing in the sun waiting for them. This is the first time she had seen him wore a suit. She has to admit he looked good. She frowned slightly when she realized that she didn''t even know the job her husband does.

    Lei Xiao Tong smiled and pulled Lei Zhao away from the car. Lei Zhao looked at the bracelet on Yan Mei''s hand and a smug grin appeared on his face.

    He stretched out his arms, took Yan Mei''s hand from his mother''s hand and ced it with his hands, and took his mother''s other hand walking in between them. All the way, to the restaurant, Yan Mei didn''t speak. She could feel Lei Zhao''s thick and warm palm. His strength was just right, not too tight to hurt her and not too loose for her to break free.

    Yan Mei turned to look at him and saw him chatting with his mother. She didn''t know what his mother said but she saw him smile.

    The sun shining on his pure face made him look more handsome. Yan Mei stared at him in a daze, swallowing constantly.

    Lei Zhao turned to look at her when he felt her gaze on him. Their eyes met, Yan Mei blinked in panic and looked away. Her ears were red.

    ''So embarrassing, he caught me staring at him.'' Yan Mei thought bitterly.

    Lei Zhao smiled radiantly but he said nothing.

 Chapter 22 She is unique

    Entering the restaurant, the three of them were given a private room. The high beaming ceilings and the eclectic d¨¦cor worked wonders for the ambience. The inside area looked warm and inviting with the flowers on each table and soothing piano music that float in the restaurant. The decibels weren''t very high, the sound was soft and shallow. Lei Zhao found out that his wife has been quiet since they entered.

    "You order first, I''m going to the washroom." Lei Xiao tong said with a smile. As soon as she left, she sent a text to Lei Zhao.

    "Xiaomei is a little nervous, you make her rx."

    Lei Zhao looked at the phone screen and smirked, then put the phone quietly into his trousers pocket. Lei Zhao smiled and grabbed Yan Mei''s hand and looked at the bracelet.

    "It''s beautiful." Yan Mei quickly withdrew her hands, raised her eyebrows, and nced at the bracelet on her wrist.

    "Can you return this to auntie? I can''t ept this." Yan Mei said expressionlessly.

    "What auntie? She is your mom too." Lei Zhao said helplessly. Yan Mei mouth twitched and she looked away not responding to him. Lei Zhao took a sip of his coffee on his table and said nkly,

    "You wear it, if you take it off, I''m afraid bad things will happen." Yan Mei suddenly turned to look at him. "What are you saying?"

    "This bracelet was handed down from my family. Before my grandmother died she said my mother should pass it on to my wife, otherwise, bad things will happen." Yan Mei was stunned, her mouth was open and she was speechless.

    Yan Mei took a deep breath. "Are you bluffing?"

    Hearing this, Lei Zhao nced at her deeply and looked at her expressionlessly, "It doesn''t matter. If you don''t believe it, you can remove it."

    Yan Mei pondered for a moment. She knew every family has a secret so maybe he isn''t lying?

    "Okay, I will wear it." Seeing her agree to wear to the bracelet a faint smile passed through his eyes. Lei Zhao grinned and took a sip of his coffee. The waiter brought the food and began serving. At this moment Lei Xiao tong came back. As soon as she was seated, she smiled and said. "You have ordered so many delicious foods."

    After such a reminder, Yan Mei remembered that she and Lei Zhao didn''t order anything since they sat down. Apart from the coffee, the waiter served when they first came in. She finds it strange though, when did the restaurant start serving coffee? She looked at Lei Zhao with a surprised look on her first. Lei Zhao chuckled and wiped his hands with a sterile towel on the table and took the fork and knife and cut the steak on her tes into pieces for her. He picked one with a fork and sent it to her mouth.

    Lei Xiao tong smiled and said nothing. This is the first time she has seen her son served someone for the first time. Although she was jealous, her son has grown up and has gotten married. As long as he is happy with the girl she doesn''t care who she is. Also, her daughter-inw is so beautiful and independent. This was also a good thing, so she was very happy.

    Yan Mei didn''t expect him to personally feed her while his mother was here. "Mom hasn''t eaten yet." The elder hasn''t eaten yet how can she dares to take the first bite. Every time she ate with Wang Lu''s mother she had to wait for her to eat first. So this has be a habit for her.

    Lei Zhao and Lei Xiao tong looked at each other when they heard her called Lei Xiao tong mom. Lei Xiao tong smiled.

    "It''s okay, I''m not old-fashioned." Yan Mei''s eyes narrowed and she immediately opened her mouth and took a bite. After swallowing, her cold face softened. The steak in this restaurant is really good. That''s why she likesing here.

    The meal took an hour. At the beginning, Yan Mei was very cautious and nervous, butter she realized that Lei Xiao tong had a good personality so she gradually talked more and even smiled more often. She finally knows where Lei Zhao got his shamelessness from.

    Three people stood in front of the restaurant, Lei Zhao still held Yan Mei''s hand. Lei Xiao tong looked at Lei Zhao and said, "Don''t forget to bring her to the family house this weekend. Your father and cousins want to meet your wife."

    Lei Zhao nodded. Yan Mei''s phone rang at this moment, taking the phone from her purse she realized she had missed so many calls from Su Bei. She hadpletely forgotten that she has a meeting this afternoon.

    She looked at Lei Xiao tong, "I''m sorry mom, there is something at thepany I have to go." Lei Xiao tong smiled and waved at her. "Go, don''t forget toe with Lei Zhao to visit me this weekend."

    Yan Mei nodded and hurriedly left the ce. Without saying anything to Lei Zhao. Lei Zhao''s face became sulky when he realized his wife didn''t say goodbye to him. Yan Mei walked all the way back to herpany since it was just opposite the restaurant.

    Lei Zhao led his mother to the parking lot and got into her car. As soon as the door was closed, Lei Xiao tong said calmly, "how did you convince her to marry you?"

    She can see that Yan Mei doesn''t love her son. It was because Lei Xiao tong recognized that Yan Mei was a good girl, so she was not angry with his son''s practice, but instead, she was anxious for her son. There was a long silence in the car.

    Lei Zhao raised the corners of his mouth and said lightly, "I will work hard to make her fall in love with me."

    Lei Xiao tong sighed. She hopes her son will be happy. Lei Xiao tong knows that the one who suffered the most when Lei Zhang died was Lei Zhao. He depended on his brother so much but he died leaving him alone. Even though his son tries to be happy in front of her, she knows he is still hurting. She held his head and ced it on her shoulder.

    "Don''t me me for not reminding you, the one who is emotional first in a rtionship is often miserable. Fortunately, this girl is very rare. Even though I can''t find anything about her past, I can feel she is a good person. Just a person with a story. Treat her well and don''t pressure her into anything hopefully she will understand you sooner. Also, be vignt, we don''t know who she is yet. For a woman to create apany in just three years is not an easy task, even though her family is among the top families in this country. Does she know who you are?"

    Lei Zhao shook his head. "No, I don''t think so." Lei Xiao tong nodded. "Make sure you can trust her first before you revealed anything to her. But make sure it is not too long, keeping secrets in a rtionship can destroy it."

    Lei Zhao nced sideways and looked at his mother, "I understand mom, don''t worry."

    Lei Xiao tong smiled, "you''re so handsome any girl will fall for you, why did you pick someone who doesn''t like you"

    "Haha." Lei Zhaoughed and his eyes shed with a strange tenderness. "This means she is unique."

    He looked throughout the window, and his eyes were filled with imperatives. It just that he remembered the pain in her eyes when he first met her and her nightmarest night. When her childes back will she leave him and reunite with the child''s father?

 Chapter 23 Give me a chance

    Around four-thirty in the afternoon, Yan Mei received a message from Lei Zhao.

    "Please let''s have dinner and watch a movie at night. I will wait for you at the parking lot in an hour."

    Yan Mei looked at the text and tapped her fingers on her desk. ''Was he asking her out on a date?''

    Yan Mei replied, "Okay" and continued with her work. She wanted to release a new collection of watches for men so she was busily preparing for it.

    At exactly five-thirty in the evening she shut down herputer and left her office. Taking her elevator, she came to the parking lot. Yan Mei saw Lei Zhao leaning on the car with his arms crossed across his chest. His brows were knitted together and he seemed to be in deep thought as he looked on his phone in a haze. His figure looked so lonely and dejected as if something was weighing on his shoulder.

    This is the first time, Yan Mei has seen him like this. He was always carefree and poking fun at her that she had forgotten that he was also human, and he must be going through some difficulties. She had been selfish in this rtionship. She didn''t even know anything about her husband. She heaved a sigh and walked towards him.

    "Lei Zhao?"

    Lei Zhao jolted, hearing Yan Mei''s voice behind him and nearly dropped his phone. He just received a call from Ye Xing that they have reached a dead-end for the investigation of his brother''s death. He had tried all these years to find out the people behind his brother''s murder, even though the police said it was an ident, Lei Zhao knew it was a premeditated murder. He had sworn that he wouldn''t rest until he has found his brother''s murders but now he had no lead. He felt so useless and helpless.

    "Are you okay?" Yan Mei asked softly when she saw his eyes were wary and clouded with sadness. Lei Zhao pulled Yan Mei into his arms and hugged her tightly. "Hmm just let me hold you for a while." Lei Zhao said sheepishly.

    Yan Mei swallowed the lump in her throat and felt her heart pounding for the fast time in five years. She bit her lips and tightly held her purse. She was nervous because of the sudden rush of emotions. A few minutester, Lei Zhao released her and stepped back.

    "What is wrong?" Yan Mei asked as she searched for any emotion or difort on his face, unfortunately, Lei Zhao had returned to his usual cheerful self.

    "Wifey, I miss you." Lei Zhao''s lips curled in a smile as he said. Yan Mei cast her eyes downward and ignored his remarks. Lei Zhao smirked and opened the door of the car for her, bowing slightly like a gentleman. "After you, mydy."

    Yan Mei shook her head and smiled helplessly. Fortunately, there was no one at this side of the parking lot to witness this, since it was reserved for Yan Mei.

    After Lei Zhao closed the door and got into the driver''s seat, he took a gift bag and gave it to Yan Mei. "Wifey, this is for you."

    Yan Mei raised her eyebrows and looked at the bag, "What is in it?" Lei Zhao grinned and smiled mysteriously. "You will know when you open it." Yan Mei opened the bag and saw it was a wheat milk drink in a bottle and a straw attached to it.

    "Wifey, you worked hard today at work, this is a reward for you." Yan Mei''s face softened and she rubbed her temple. ''So, he is giving me a milk drink because I was tired at work? How old am I, ten?'' Yan Mei thought but she felt warm in her heart nevertheless.

    "Erhm...Thanks."

    Lei Zhao grinned and took the drink from her hands. He removed the straw attached to the drink and helped her insert the straw in the drink. "

    Here you go." Looking at the look on his face as if he was eager for her to try it, Yan Mei couldn''t help but took a sip of the drink. Surprisingly, it was very good.

    She nodded and said, "not bad." Lei Zhao smiled and took her left hand, caressing her knuckles with his thumb.

    "Wifey, give me a chance okay? I know I might not the first man in your life but I want to be thest one. I want to wake every morning with you by my side, I want to share your good days and bad days with you. We can bully bad guys and even the good guys together if you want. As long as you''re happy. I know I might not be madly in love with you yet, but I know I feel something for you, so give me a chance okay? Let us make this marriage work."

    Yan Mei stiffened when she heard him, her eyes met his, and she saw her reflection in his eyes. Her heart suddenly skipped a beat. She knows maybe if she hadn''t met Wang Lu and gotten hurt she would''ve already fallen for Lei Zhao.

    But the pain of having your whole world crumble down because of love had been too much for her to bear. Now she is scared, but she knew that even though love is a scam, it is a beautiful scam.

    She wants to be happy again, at least she had promised her daughter to be happy and that guy so she had to keep her promise. Five years is enough time to grieve, now she will move on.

    "I¡­can''t promise...to fall in love with you but I will..give you a chance so-"

    In an instant, Lei Zhao pulled her towards him and mped his mouth with hers interrupting her. He kissed her with a burning passion. He opened her lips by thrusting his tongue inside her mouth, kissing her so deeply.

    He took the drink from her hand and ced it in the cup container in the car. Then he held the back of her head, kissing her hungrily like a starving man. He kissed her throat, her jawlines, and licked the tips of her ear. Yan Mei moaned with pleasure.

    His hand went under her shirt and touched her breast, stroking her nipples gently. "Tell me, wifey, are you really giving me a chance?" His lips brushed against her as he spoke.

    "Yes..hmm..yes." Yan Mei unbuttoned his shirt and ran her hands across his chest, with their lips locked together in a fiery kiss. They were kissing in a car at the parking lot but they had forgotten where they were.

    Yan Mei traced his chest to his abs with her hands and then back to his chest. She pinched the tip of his nipples and then she heard him groaned. A gush of excitement rushed through her when she heard him groaned. Just as she about to unbuckle his belt, Lei Zhao held her hands and pulled away from her. He touched his forehead with hers and took a deep breath trying to calm himself down.

    "Wifey, we are still in the parking lot. I don''t think you will want your employees toe and see you getting screwed in a car." Lei Zhao said with a smug smile across his face.

    Yan Mei blushed and pulled away from him. She could not believe she had just lost control like that. This guy was really her nemesis. Yan Mei buttoned her shirt with a sullen face as she thought.

 Chapter 24 Faking the orgasm

    Lei Zhao buttoned his shirt and turned to look at her. "So, what do you want to eat?"

    Yan Mei looked up to stare at him. His expression was open and gentle although she didn''t miss the sadness that flickered in his eyes.

    "Actually, I like the food you prepare more and we can watch a movie in the house if you want." Yan Mei said in a low quiet tone.

    "You don''t want to go on the date with me?" he echoed, staring at her puzzledly. ''Didn''t she say she would give him a chance, so why was she refusing to go on the date with him.?''

    Yan Mei bit her lips, observing the agitation on his face.

    "No¡­it''s just that I think eating food prepared by my husband and watching a movie on a sofa while cuddling is a better date-." Yan Mei trailed off.

    Lei Zhao looked up to her and saw her brown eyes now shimmering with a surge of emotions. This woman of an imprable mask who shows a little emotion on her face had such a look in her eyes.

    "Wifey, I never knew you were the cozy type." Lei Zhao told her with a small tremulous smile.

    "You don''t know a lot of things about me." Yan Mei muttered as she exhaled loudly. Lei Zhao leaned down and brushed a kiss on the tips of her nose before pressing another one against her lips.

    "That is true but at least I know my touch drives you crazy- and you''re mine." He murmured, a slow smile curving on his mouth.

    Yan Mei pushed him away from her, "it''s gettingte. Let''s go." She muttered bleakly and turned her face away from him.

    Lei Zhao grinned rakishly as he started the car. His eyes glimmered with a mischievous calction. A few minutester, he swung the car in a parking space in front of a grocery store.

    "Wifey, let''s some groceries." Yan Mei quickly got down and headed straight to get a shopping cart.

    "What should we get?" Lei Zhao asked, taking the shopping cart from her hands. Yan Mei shrugged. "I''m not a picky eater as long as there are no shrimps in the food. You?"

    Yan Mei nced at him when he didn''t answer her. He had that evil smirk on his face again.

    "What do you want to eat?" Yan Mei prompted.

    "You," he replied with a wink.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes. Leave it to him to make shameless remarks.

    The fruits section was closest so they went there first.

    Lei Zhao picked a couple of fruits. When they reached the bananas, he turned to look at her.

    "Wifey, do you like bananas? If even though I have a natural one which tastes better, there is no harm in eating this one too."

    Yan Mei snorted, "Who said yours taste good? It''s horrible."

    His nose scrunched up. "Really? Is it bad?" He looked so horrified, so cute that she wanted tough.

    "Yep. You should try to improve the taste." Yan Mei added.

    "You''re kidding"

    Yan Mei shook her head. "But I thought you said you were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with it."

    Yan Mei pursed her lips to keep herself fromughing as she took in his expression. He looked so serious and hurt like he has suffered a blow to his pride.

    "So you were faking the orgasm?" He continued to ask.

    Yan Mei bit her lips and looked down on the ground to prevent herself from erupting intoughter. But in Lei Zhao''s eyes, she was admitting to faking the orgasm.

    "Oh" Lei Zhao eyes shuttered and he said gruffly. His expression grew grimmer.

    An awkward silence fell between them. Yan Mei who was battling to keep herughs in, ended up, bursting into loudughter.

    "Mr. Lei you should''ve seen your face right now. Haha, I''m just kidding."

    Lei Zhao stood in a daze as he looked at herughed, theughpletely enveloped her face. Herugh was so free and pure. It floated through the air like a melody. In that tiny splinter of time, Lei Zhao felt a glorious shining moment of pure euphoria. Suddenly, his heart started beating fast in his chest.

    A grin tugged at his lips from her teasing.

    "Ha! You got me wifey that''s a good one." Lei Zhao pulled her into his arms and wrapped his hands around her waist.

    "When I get you beneath me, I will make sure you enjoy the thirst very well so that you never forget it." Lei Zhao whispered huskily in her ears. Yan Mei shivered and a sudden gush of desire overwhelmed her.

    She felt hot and blushed. Embarrassed, she spun around; picked the bananas, and ced it in the cart. After picking up fruits they went to the vegetable station and he picked whatever he wanted.

    Out of the corners of her eye, she spotted the ice cream section. Her eyes were filled with nostalgia as she remembered a scene from the past

    "Meimei, there is something on your nose." A man said as he pointed at a girl''s nose.

    "What?" The girl furrowed her brows in confusion. The man smiled and licked the tip of her nose.

    The girl blushed and her eyes were filled with warmth and love looking at the man. "There was a little bit of the ice cream on your nose." The man said softly and mussed her hair.

    "Wifey, do you want an ice cream?" Lei Zhao''s voice snapped her out of her stupor. She turned to look at him, shook her head, and strode forward leaving him alone. Lei Zhao stared at her back, he didn''t miss the nostalgic emotion in her eyes.

    Sighing heavily, he turned and saw chocte in the next section. He remembered his mom saying something about girls liking chocte and he saw her eyeing the chocte earlier.

    He picked the one he saw her looking at from the counter and followed her. He sighted her waiting for him at the cashier. Yan Mei looked at the cart when he reached her and saw the chocte she was previously gawking at.

    She doubted he was someone who would like sweets. He definitely had seen her staring at those choctes. ''Why was he so nice?'' She wasn''t supposed to fall in love again. But he was just so...thoughtful.

    She looked up at him for a moment, when she caught him looking back at her with a grin on his mouth, she looked away.

 Chapter 25 Scaredy-ca

    When they reached home, Yan Mei had a business call so she went to the study room. After she was done, she headed to the kitchen and spotted Lei Zhao chopping the vegetables. Warmth filled her chest. He was cooking dinner for her. She leaned back against the wall, enjoying the view. There was something sweet and cozy watching a guy cook for you.

    Lei Zhao had changed into a blue T-shirt with, "I''M BOSS" written on it, paired with dark jean trousers. He looked so handsome like a boy next door.

    "Wifey, you know, you can take a picture, it willst longer." Yan Mei squealed in surprise when she heard him.

    Lei Zhao turned to look at her and gave her a heartily smile. Yan Mei cleared her throat and ignored his remark.

    "So, what are you cooking?"

    "It''ste so I prepared noodles. I hope you like it."

    Yan Mei nodded and strode forward to help him. Lei Zhao''s heart beat faster every time, he caught her looking at him, or when she identally grazed her hand against his. The two were like an old couple with a tacit understanding, each performing their duties in the kitchen. She washed the vegetables or passed him something when he needed it.

    After ten minutes the food was ready, Yan Mei set the table and they ate together. After they finished eating, Lei Zhao got up and picked the dishes,

    "Go and take a bath first, I will wash the dishes then we will watch the movie together."

    "Okay." Yan Mei smiled and didn''t argue with him to wash the dishes. She just looked at him and said seriously with a soft smile.

    "Mr. Lei, you''re really good."

    After she finished speaking, she left without waiting for his reply.

    Lei Zhao was stunned, he suddenly remembered what his mom had said today, "the one who is emotional first in a rtionship is miserable."

    Looking at the dishes in front of him, he raised his eyebrows helplessly and sighed while cleaning the table. ''He has really encountered a nemesis. When did he serve someone like this?''

    Time passed by quietly, Lei Zhao washed the dishes and the chopsticks in the kitchen. After he was done, he prepared a bag of popcorn and ced it on the table waiting for her. When Yan Mei came back from the shower, she was wearing a clean white crop top which covered most of her belly leaving a small strip of her skin above her waistband paired with a casual stic waist pocketed shorts. She had tied her hair in a messy knot on her head and tendrils had escaped, curling on the delicate line of her neck.

    Lei Zhao swallowed and his eyes caught and held hers. Her face looked so sweet and innocent, even without any facial expression. He was so mesmerized by her beauty and couldn''t stop staring at her. This is the first time he had seen her in such a revealing outfit apart from her nightdress. His wifey was a temptress without her even trying.

    His intense gaze sent a ripple of awareness throughout Yan Mei''s body. She curled her toes and looked at her feet. Lei Zhao groaned and rose from the sofa. He walked towards her, slowly, his intense eyes were fixed on her. Yan Mei froze, unable to move. She could feel his eyes on her when she looked up, she saw Lei Zhao standing a foot away from her. She gasped at the intensity she saw in his eyes.

    "Wifey, what spell have you cast on me?" Yan Mei narrowed her eyes when she heard him.

    "Spell?" she whispered back.

    "The smallest thing you do, send ripples in my heart and I can''t control myself. I think I''m falling in love with you and I can''t control myself."

    His eyes gleamed with helplessness. Yan Mei widened her eyes in shock when she heard him. She bit her lips and clenched her hands into fists. She fell silent, not knowing how to respond to him. Lei Zhao''s eyes softened and sighed.

    "It''s okay, you don''t have to say anything. Let''s watch a movie." Lei Zhao said, turned to switch off the light. The only light in the room was now the light from the television which illuminated the room. Yan Mei went to sit on the sofa and Lei Zhao came to sit beside her.

    "What movie are we watching?" Yan Mei muttered trying to ease the awkward atmosphere. Lei Zhao smirked. "You will know soon."

    Yan Mei raised her brows and picked the popcorn on the table. She scooted a little closer and leaned her head on his shoulder. Lei Zhao stiffened when he felt her head on his shoulder. He didn''t expect her to make the first move. It seems she was really giving him the chance. He smiled and wrapped his hands around her.

    Ten minutes into the movie, Yan Mei was already sinking on the couch. ''This guy really chose a horror movie.'' When the ghost appeared out of nowhere, Yan Mei screamed, and jumped, the popcorn spilling all over the ce. Lei Zhao chuckled next to her.

    "Wifey, don''t tell me you''re afraid of ghosts." Yan Mei snorted.

    "Who¡ªis¡­afraid?" because of the scare, her words were incoherent. Lei Zhao chuckled as he turned to look at her.

    "My wifey is so brave of course you can''t be scared of a mere ghost." Yan Mei could hear the grin in his voice.

    She humped and ignored him. She watched the next part of the movie, averting her eyes as much as possible. The dramatic sounds of the creaking stairs and the hushed whispers across the room made her feel more disoriented

    When she couldn''t take it anymore, she simply covered her eyes with her hands, tucking her head into his shoulder.

    "Wifey, you know it''s not real, right?" Lei Zhao whispered.

    "But they looked so scary." She mumbled.

    "How about I let you know when the scary parts are over? You can watch normal parts."

    Yan Mei nodded. A few minutester she asked, "Is it safe now?"

    "Yes." Yan Mei couldn''t hear any horrific sound anymore so she looked up and saw the main character hiding in a closet. Suddenly, the closet opened and the ghost appeared in front of the screen.

    This time Yan Mei screamed out loud. She took cover behind Lei Zhao''s shoulder, she didn''t even realize it until she felt his arms wrapped around her and pulled her into his solid chest. He covered her eyes with his palm. Yan Mei felt her heart pound in her ears.

    "Wifey, Let''s stop watching or you will even get a heart attack, scaredy-cat." He whispered his voice sound amused.

    "I''m not scared," Yan Mei protested and hit him in the shoulder. Lei Zhao smirked and shrugged.

    "Okay, I will pretend I believe you, scaredy-cat.."

    "Don''t call me scaredy-cat!" Yan Mei echoed.

    Lei Zhao grinned, "or what? scaredy-cat, scaredy-cat." Lei Zhao taunted her.

    "Just admit-"

    Yan Mei pulled his head and captured his lips in a kiss silencing him. Lei Zhao widened his eyes in shock.

 Chapter 26 Bad boys break the rules

    Lei Zhao felt his lips moving closer to his ear now, touching it. "You''ve been a bad boy, and bad boys are punished, right?" Yan Mei said, her voice thick with mischievousness.

    As soon as the words were out, the atmosphere thickened. There was something about the way she spoke that set Lei Zhao on fire. He tried to talk, but the words got stuck in his dry mouth.

    He doesn''t know if it was because he was shocked or looking forward to what she would do.

    In one swift movement, he sped his hands to her hips and pulled her towards him. His hardness pressed into her stomach as his hands moved to cup her face.

    "Wifey, you know your wish is mymand. If you want to punish me, I will dly ept it." Lei Zhao said with a smile in his voice.

    An evil grin appeared across Yan Mei''s face. She removed his hands from her face and trailed her lips down to his jaw until she found her way to his neck. She roughly sucked and bit his skin, marking him as her fingers traced his abs under his shirt. Lei Zhao groaned.

    "You have no idea what you have signed up for." Yan Mei said in an inaudible voice as she dipped down and kissed his corbone. Her touch sparked heat through his body. His cock jerked in need and anticipation. Yan Mei grinned when she saw his hard-on, and she pulled away from him.

    "Okay, let''s continue watching the movie." Lei Zhao narrowed his eyes when he heard.

    "Screw the movie." Lei Zhao growled.

    He picked her from the couch, took her to the bedroom, and put her gently on the bed. Yan Mei smiled, knowing she had gotten him where she wanted. She wrapped her hands around his neck and kissed him harder and more demanding. Lei Zhao roamed his hands down to her ass and squeezed it.

    "Wifey, you have no idea of the effect you have on me." Yan Mei licked her lips as she looked at him.

    "I want to see you, remove your clothes." She demanded.

    Lei Zhao got up from the bed and held her gaze as he undressed. He knew exactly what kind of effect he was having on her, and he liked the way she was looking at him. Atst, she was also sexually attracted to him, which was a good thing for him.

    Strangely possessive thoughts started running through Yan Mei''s mind as she watched him strip his clothes piece by piece.

    She wondered if he had looked at other girls like this, or stripped for other girls. Next, he pulled down his trousers, letting them fall on the ground. Yan Mei''s eyes drifted down, exactly where he wanted them to go.

    "Do you want me to take these off too?" He said with a grin on his face, holding the tip of his underwear. Yan Mei nodded.

    "What will you take off in an exchange?" Lei Zhao asked with a yful expression on his face.

    Yan Mei flickered her eyes to meet his.

    "Nothing, now be a good boy and take off your underwear. "Her tone was firm, as if she knew he wouldn''t dare disobey him.

    This side of his Wifey, he had never seen it before or known she was capable of. She was forceful, dominant, and sexually aggressive. He was looking for the surprises she had in store for him.

    "But I thought I was a bad boy, and bad boys break the rules." A smug smile was on his face as he said.

    Yan Mei got up from the bed and sauntered towards him, imbued with confidence.

    "I want you to see you take off your underwear." She said sternly. There was something about her thatpelled him to obey her.

    Lei Zhao smiled. He took a step back and pulled his underwear off. He stood there in front of her. Lei Zhao was naked, he was big and hard. She stepped closer and ced her hands on his manhood, his entire body tensed up as he reached out and gripped her shoulders.

    Yan Mei''s eyes narrowed on his hands on her shoulders and squeezed his balls. "No touching unless I say so."

    Lei Zhao groaned; he didn''t know it was because of the pain or the pleasure and removed his hands from her shoulder. He closed his eyes and bit down on his bottom lip.

    Yan Mei stopped and pushed him on the bed. Lei Zhao opened his eyes when his back hit the bed and looked at her, standing in front of him. She seemed so different from her usual aloof self or her cute, shy self.

    This woman in front of him looked utterly different. Her eyes were filled with possessiveness and primitive desire that shocked him, his wife was mysteriously showing a new side of her every day.

    Yan Mei slowly kissed down his chest, kissed his nipple before biting it, causing him to moan. She kissed her way down his chest, leaving hickeys until she reached his hard cock. Yan Mei kissed around it, her teeth grazed dangerously closed to his manhood, and he groaned beneath her. She smirked. She loved the power she had over him.

    "Shit, Wifey." He said through gritted teeth as his hands fisted the sheets. She trailed kissed down his thick cock until she reached his balls.

    "What do you want?" Yan Mei asked, her voiceced with desire. Lei Zhao knew she was enjoying seeing him beneath him. She loved being in control.

    "I want you, Wifey" Yan Mei stroked his manhood as she licked and looked at him.

    "You want me to do what?" Lei Zhao breathed as he bit his lips and looked down at her. He knew she was teasing him, she wanted him to beg her.

    A squeal left his mouth when her tongue hit his sensitive area, switching between flicking and softly gliding her tongue up and down, while her fingers massaged his balls.

    "Please¡­!" Lei Zhao screamed and panted, the more she pleasured him. His entire body felt like he was on fire. His body was twitching and jerking all over. His painting increased; he felt his orgasm nearing and grabbed hold of her hair, pressing her deeper against his cock, moaning loudly. Lei Zhao knew he was getting close. Yan Mei bobbed her head and felt him hit the back of her throat as she sucked him.

    "Fuck..I''m going to cum!" Lei Zhao let out a muffled moan. Just as he was about to release, Yan Mei stopped and pulled away from him.

    Lei Zhao''s entire body stiffened, "Why are you stopping?" He asked huskily.

    The evil grin appeared on Yan Mei''s face again, "Bad boys break the rules, but when they do, they get punished." Yan Mei whispered low in his ear.

 Chapter 27 A Serial Killer

    Lei Zhao turned to look at Yan Mei and a smile emerged on his face when he saw her parted lips as she dozed off, leaning her head against the window. His eyes stayed on her face a second longer before he turned to focus on driving. She had received a call from her grandfather this morning, asking them to visit him, and they were now on their way.

    He really couldn''t believe she did that to him yesterday. She took him to the sky and just as she was about to show him the stars; she dropped him ruthlessly into hell.

    He still remembered the cold shower he tookst night, he even had to jerk himself off. How embarrassing! ''This woman is ruthless''. Lei Zhao thought.

    He turned to look at her sleeping peacefully and shook his head helplessly.

    "What will I do with you?" Lei Zhao whispered faintly in the quiet car.

    "MOM!!" Yan Mei shouted, causing Lei Zhao to turn to look at her. He hurriedly parked the car on the side of the road and turned to look at Yan Mei, he was shocked when he found her sitting upright and panting hard. Beads of sweats were dotting on her forehead and her hands trembled as she looked out the windshield, breathing heavily.

    "Wifey, are you okay?" Lei Zhao asked worriedly. Yan Mei turned to look at him when she heard him but she just stared at him nkly, panting. Lei Zhao used his handkerchief to wipe the sweats on her forehead, and his warm lipsnded on the warm surface of Yan Mei''s forehead as he pressed a soft kiss on her skin. He tucked a strand of hair behind her ears.

    "Sss¡­.breath in...out.." Lei Zhao mumbled as he cupped her face in his hands. Yan Mei followed his instructions until her breathing rxed and her eyes met his, filled with concern.

    "Lei Zhao¡­" Yan Mei whispered, her voice filled with panic and fear.

    "I.." She trailed off, realizing they were still in the car.

    "It''s okay, don''t talk about it if you don''t want to. It''s just a dream. I''m here. Nothing bad will happen to you." Yan Mei looked at down at her fingers that were still trembling and nodded.

    "Here." Lei Zhao said, holding a bottle of water in front of her.

    "Thank you." Yan Mei looked at him gratefully and took the water from him. She gulped down the water and looked out the window.

    "We haven''t reached yet?" she asked.

    "We are almost there, should we wait a few minutes for you to calm down?" Lei Zhao asked with a look of concern on his face.

    Yan Mei shook her head, "No, I''m okay. Grandpa is waiting for us, let''s go."

    "Okay." Lei Zhao smiled warmly at her as he started the car. Yan Mei looked out the window and tried to calm her heart that was still racing as the shbacks of her nightmare came before her eyes. Taking a deep breath, she tried to shake off those thoughts away.

    Meanwhile, Lei Zhao kept ncing at her to make sure she was okay. He was curious and was dying to know what his wife has gone through to make her get these nightmares. He knew psychological shadows caused nightmares. Lei Zhao didn''t want to pressure her. He will wait until she was ready to tell him.

    "So you''re close with your grandpa?" Lei Zhao asked in attempts to pull Yan Mei from whatever trance she was in.

    "Y-yeah. We are close. He is the only one who believed in me when I came back to the Yan family. They thought I was a con-artist." Yan Mei snorted.

    "Are you not?" Lei Zhao smirked at her before regaining his focus on the road.

    "Yeah right! I''m the greatest con-artist to exist, to even fake a DNA result and make my appearance looked exactly like the lost young miss of the Yan family." Yan Mei teased.

    "You know I have just recorded what you said, I will send it Grandpa Yan when we meet him." Lei Zhao said, grinning.

    "You know, the dead know no secrets." Yan Mei said coldly with an evil smirk on her face. Lei Zhao turned to look at her when he heard her.

    "Oh really? So, you will kill me since I know your secrets?" Lei Zhaoughed as he said.

    "Yes." Yan Mei answered bleakly.

    "You''re kidding, right?"

    Yan Mei shook her head.

    "I''m a serial killer, and I needed a cover-up so I pretended to be the daughter of Yan Yu." Yan Mei whispered low in the car as if she was sharing her secret with him. Lei Zhao opened his mouth in surprise and it distorted his expression.

    A heavy silence filled the car. Lei Zhao didn''t know whether or not she was joking. Her deadpan expression didn''t give away anything. He had been curious about the background of his wife, but a serial killer? That was unexpected!

    Looking at the flicker of emotions on his face, Yan Mei suddenly spoke. "You''re so silly."

    Lei Zhao heard the smile in her voice and knew his wife had yed again with him. He didn''t know whether he shouldugh or cry.

    "Wifey, you know I will get back at you for everything, right? Especially for what you didst night." Lei Zhao said with a chuckle.

    "What happenedst night?" Yan Mei asked, feigning innocent.

    "You¡­.." Lei Zhao trailed off and sighed. "Why did you stop? I was so close. Do you know the health implications associated with what you did?"

    "I told you, you broke the rules." Yan Mei said nonchntly.

    "What rules?" Lei Zhao narrowed his eyes, trying to remember the said rules he had broken.

    "I told you no touching unless I say so, but you touched me."

    "When did¡­.." Lei Zhao stopped talking when he suddenly remembered that he had held her head while she was sucking him.

    "Why do I feel you nned this, it wasn''t about me breaking the rules? You wanted to get back at me because I called you scaredy-cat and because of me teasing you all this while." Lei Zhao turned to look at her as he said.

    "See, it''s not that hard being smart." Yan Mei said with an amused look on her face.

    ''

 Chapter 28 Is it a crime to fall in love?

    When they got to Grandpa Yan''s house, they saw the oldman pruning flowers.

    "Grandpa, I came to see you with Mr.Lei"

    Grandpa Yan turned around and saw Yan Mei next to Lei Zhao and he smiled happily.

    "Xiaomei! Come over let Grandpa look at you."

    Yan Mei run into his arms, "Grandpa I miss you."

    Grandpa Yan patted her back andughed heartily. "If you miss me, don''t you know where I stay? Oh I forgot, you''re married now so you''ve already forgotten about your old man".

    Yan Mei pouted, "Grandpa how can I forget you!"

    Lei Zhao looked at his wife being childish and he was really surprised, he knew her indifferent face was a mask but he never thought she was this childish. A smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he watched the exchange between her and her grandfather.

    Grandpa Yan looked at Lei Zhao and beckoned at him.

    "Why are you standing there,e let Grandpa see you."

    "Grandpa Yan,hello." Lei Zhao walked over and greated him politely.

    Grandpa Yan pretended not to be happy, "Why are you calling me Grandpa Yan? We are now family, call me Grandpa directly."

    "Grandpa". Lei Zhao was very fond of the old man so he followed his wishes and called him.

    "Grandpa."

    The old man smiled,"Good boy, don''t stand at the door, let''s go inside and talk."

    They followed the old man inside, Lei Zhao gave him the gift they brought and ced it on the table.

    "Grandpa I heard you like tea, so we brought you some tea bags, hope you like it."

    Grandpa Yan nodded, "Thank you, I hope she is not giving you a hard time."

    Grandpa Yan asked with a smile. "No, Grandpa. Yan Mei is really good"

    Grandpa Yan turned to look at Yan Mei and said softly,"Xiaomei, I know your marriage was in a rush but I hope you can give this marriage a chance. Grandpa wants you to be happy."

    Yan Mei turned to look at Lei Zhao who had that his signature smirk on his face and rolled her eyes at him.

    "I know Grandpa."

    They spend sometime with the old man and ate lunch with him before they left. When they were about to go Grandpa Yan invited Lei Zhao to his study room.

    Grandpa Yan looked at the young man infront of him and nodded with satisfaction.He can see the affection in his eyes anytime he looked at his granddaughter and he was happy to have such a good son-inw.

    "What do you think about Yan Mei?"

    Grandpa Yan asked as he stared at Lei Zhao.

    "She is smart, independent and I can see she has been hurt before making her a little insecure to trust someone." Lei Zhao said softly.

    Grandpa Yan sighed when he heard Lei Zhao.

    "Has she been having her nightmares again?"

    Lei Zhao narrowed his eyes when he heard the old man. So, he knows about her nightmares? Maybe he can tell him what is bothering his wife?

    "Yes, she has been having nightmares. " Lei Zhao nodded.

    "Has she told you why she has been having those nightmares?"

    "No."

    Grandpa Yan tapped his fingers in the table and stared nkly in a daze.

    "Yan Mei, that child has suffer alot. Her mother got into an affair with her bodyguard whose identity no one knows. He had saved her from an assassination so she begged me to hire him as a bodyguard. At first I didn''t want to because I couldn''t find anything about him. Butter, she convinced me and I agreed. I didn''t know that guy will seduce my daughter. "

    Grandpa Yan sighed, and he looked heartbroken.

    "I didn''t know my daughter has already fallen for that bodyguard so I agreed to a business marriage with the Li family. I thought it will help both our businesses. When my daughter got to know about the arranged marriage she confronted and told me she was inlove with the bodyguard and she was pregnant with their baby. I couldn''t ept it, I thought that guy wanted to seduce my daughter because of our family property so I hired people to get rid of him and asked my daughter to abort the baby."

    Lei Zhao narrowed his eyes when he heard him, he never thought his wife''s parents had such a cliche love story.

    "When my daughter found out she got angry and disappeared from this country. I tried looking for her for years but is like she had disappeared from the surface of this earth. I couldn''t stop ming myself. I thought because of my selfish reasons I killed my daughter."

    Tears formed at the corners of grandpa Yan''s eyes as he said.

    "Untill three yearster, Yan Mei came to the door iming to be my daughter''s child. No words could describe my feelings at that moment. She looked exactly like her mother. People thought she was a con-artist but deep down I knew she was my granddaughter. I could see her mother in her. The only problem was that she hardly talked, she was alone by herself and she was always indifferent."

    Grandpa Yan took a sip of tea, paused for awhile and looked up at Lei Zhao.

    "One night, I saw her trying tomit suicide."

    Lei Zhao froze when he heard Grandpa Yan. ''Suicide? Why would she try tomit suicide?''

    "Suicide?" Lei Zhao asked his voice thick with panic. Grandpa Yan nodded.

    " I was so shock and afraid, I didn''t know what to do. Fortunately, Yan Tang was home, her uncle, we tried to talk to her and convince her not to. That''s when she started telling us what she had gone through. I still remember her look that night. She looked so hopeless, her eyes were empty and she looked like a lifeless doll that night. I will never forget that day, because I felt like it was my fault. With tears in her eyes, she asked me,"

    "Grandpa I''m a disaster star right? Why does bad things keep happening to me. Even God hates me that''s why he let me suffer like this, is it a crime to fall in love?" Yan Mei said with agitation then she startedughing manically.

    "I can still remember the sound of thatugh, I had never heard anyoneughed with so much pain. She was just twenty-four years at that time but my precious granddaughter didn''t have the vibrance that a girl at her age should have."

    Lei Zhao clenched his fists and his heart was hurting. What had his wife gone through?

    "I know you must be curious to know what she told me that night but that is her story to tell, not mine. All I can tell you is that she was hurt because of love. She had love someone too much and that love had been her downfall. So please don''t hurt her, if you do I don''t mind selling my soul to the devil to destroy you. This is how much my granddaughter means to me."

    Lei Zhao tried to calm down as he absorbed what he has just heard. ''His wifey had been hurt because of love? Who in his right mind will hurt such a uniquedy like his wife?''

    "I know Grandpa. I really like Yan Mei I won''t hurt her, and I will wait untill she is ready to tell me."

    Grandpa Yan nodded with satisfaction.

    "Good, let''s go she must be waiting for us. Also, make sure you''re by her side when is raining. She normally has mental breakdown when is raining. She seems to hate the rain".

    "Okay, Grandpa."

    When Lei Zhao and Grandpa Yan came downstairs Yan Mei was busily browsing on her phone. She looked up at them, "are you done talking?"

    Lei Zhao nodded, "yeah let''s go home".

    They said their farewell to Grandpa Yan and went back home.

    When they got home they met an unexpected visitor waiting for them.

 Chapter 29 Mission

    When they got home, they saw a man waiting for them in front of their house. Lei Zhao raised his brows when he saw the person standing there.

    "Ye Xing?" Lei Zhao asked with uncertainty. Lei Zhao remembers that he was on a mission so why was he back, looking like a living corpse?

    Yan Mei looked at the man and frowned slightly. He was good looking, he had dirty blond hair that was styled yet wavy. His jawline was sharp, and his nose was slightly upturned. His lips were full and surrounded by a stubble of his beard. His eyes were bloodshot, his skin paler and his brows were furrowed with fatigue. He looked familiar but she couldn''t remember where she has seen him before.

    "Lei Zhao." Ye Xing whispered with a sigh of relief.

    "What are you doing here?" Lei Zhao asked as he turned to nce at Yan Mei.

    "We need to talk.." Ye Xing trailed off when he saw Yan Mei behind Lei Zhao. He was anxious when he saw Lei Zhao that he didn''t notice the woman behind him. ''Wait, isn''t this woman, the same woman they saved the other day?''

    "Is this a bad time?" Ye Xing asked as he stared at Yan Mei.

    Lei Zhao pulled Yan Mei into his arms and introduced them.

    "Wifey, this is Ye Xing my assistant" Ye Xing widened his eyes when he heard Lei Zhao. ''Wifey?!"

    "Ye Xing, this is Yan Mei, my wife."

    "Wife?" Ye Xing asked with a shocked look on his face. When did Lei Zhao get married? Didn''t he just meet this woman about a month ago?

    "Yes." Lei Zhao answered.

    Ye Xing swallowed the lump in his throat and turned to look to Yan Mei.

    "Nice to meet you, young miss." Yan Mei nodded slightly. Ye Xing knew that she was a cold person from his investigationst time so he wasn''t offended.

    "Let us go inside." Lei Zhao''s voice sounded breaking the stiff atmosphere.

    Once inside, Lei Zhao led Ye Xing to his study, while Yan Mei sat in the living room watching television.

    "I thought you were on a mission what happened?" Lei Zhao asked as he stared at him.

    He stood up from the chair and knelt in front of Lei Zhao.

    "I''m sorry boss, I failed the mission. We got besiged by the enemy. It seems someone leaked our entire n to them. They knew all our moves and where we were hiding. We suffered from a deadly sneak attack from them."

    Lei Zhao sped his hands together as he listened to him.

    "How many people did you take for this mission."

    "Reporting, thirty people participated in this mission. Ten dead, five disfigured and the rest were badly injured. They''re barely responding to treatment."

    Ye Xing felt a shiver along his spine. The temperature in the room decrease as a Lei Zhao''s whole temparement changed. He looked like a wounded lion now.

    Ye Xing knew Lei Zhao was angry. He loved all the people in the team as his family so he was angry they got hurt. He really hates betrayal, he has seen how ruthless Lei Zhao punish those who betrayed him.

    "Have you found the mole yet?" He asked coldly.

    "No, boss". Lei Zhao tapped his finger on the table. The room became pin drop silence. Ye Xing felt every second that went by was torture for him.

    "Get up, you''re badly injured aren''t you?"

    Ye Xing looked up in shock at Lei Zhao. He thought he had hidden his wounds from Lei Zhao. He didn''t want him to see him as a failure.

    "Yes Boss." Lei Zhao face soften gradually. Ye Xing was like a brother to him. He was the second best person in the team if he got badly hurt then he could only imagine the fate of the rest of the people.

    "Go and rest, We will leave tomorrow morning. Call Jun Mo, tell him he will be leaving with us to look at their wounds."

    Jun Mo was the best doctor, Lei Zhao has ever met, if he believes someone can save his teammates then is him.

    Ye Xing nodded.

    "Okay, Boss."

    Ye Xing and Lei Zhao came downstairs.

    Ye Xing respectfully bid farewell to Yan Mei.

    "Miss, please I''m leaving." Ye Xing said as he bowed respectfully at Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei raised her brows suspiciously. She can see the high level of respect Ye Xing was giving her. Now she was curious about the job her husband does to have an assistant.

    "Okay." Yan Mei responded briefly.

    Ye Xing retreated.

    Lei Zhao came to sit beside Yan Mei on the sofa. "So, what are we watching?"

    "We are not watching anything. I on the other, I''m watching How to kill your husband." Yan Mei tells him, trying to ignore his presence.

    "Wifey, you have said you will kill me twice today. Don''t tell me, you really want to be a widow at such a tender age.?"

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes, looking around the room bored. "Hmm, if It''s the only way to get rid of you why not?"

    Lei Zhao chuckled. "I love you too wifey, no need to say it out loud." Yan Mei''s body stiffened when she heard him. She didn''t know how to refute his words. Should she say that she doesn''t love him? But that will be weird. So, she decided to ignore him.

    The atmosphere became a little awkward, Lei Zhao suddenly cleared his throat.

    "Wifey, I will be traveling tomorrow morning. I have to take care of some business." Yan Mei turned to look at him when she heard him.

    "Oh, how long will you take?" Yan Mei asked indifferently, but Lei Zhao still heard the slight difference in her tone.

    "Three days, try not to miss me." Lei Zhao said with a wink. Yan Mei snorted.

    "Who will miss you?!" Lei Zhao smiled and pulled her into his arms hugging her tightly as if to engraved how her body feels in his heart.

 Chapter 30 Are you still alive?

    The following days passed by quickly. In the absence of Lei Zhao, Yan Mei couldn''t help but feel that a part of her was missing. She had gotten used to having him around that she was starting to miss him. She sighed as she leaned in her chair and picked up her phone.

    Opening up the messaging app, she typed a quick message.

    Yan Mei: Are you still alive?

    Her finger tapped rapidly on the desk as she waited for his reply. Ever since he left, he had never texted her and she was beginning to get worried. Unfortunately, she waited half an hour but the reply didn''te, leaving Yan Mei disheartened.

    She stared at the files on her table and sighed.

    "Here is your coffee boss," Su Bei said as she set the tray on the side of Yan Mei''s desk.

    Yan Mei gave her nod as she stared nkly at the load of paperworks piled on her desk.

    "Are you okay," Su Bei asked worriedly as she looked at her friend who had been working nonstop since yesterday.

    Yan Mei thought working would help her take her mind off Lei Zhao but she just couldn''t forget his evil smirks and his shameless remarks. She knew he was changing her and changing her for the better. Even though she tried to be indifferent, she can''t hide the fact that her icy heart was melting. The lost woman who was abandoned by her husband was finally finding herself.

    "Yes, I''m fine," Yan Mei answered with a soft smile.

    Su Bei raised her brows when she heard her. "Are you having problems with your husband?"

    Yan Mei bit her lips and looked up at Su Bei. "No, it''s just that he left yesterday but he has never called me to tell me if he has reached safely or not."

    Su Bei grinned when she heard her friend. "So, you miss him or you''re worried about him?"

    "I-I don''t know!"

    Yan Mei yelled in annoyance. She doesn''t really know why she is feeling restless.

    "Maybe you have started liking him and you are afraid that he won''te back. You''re afraid that he has abandoned you right?" Su Bei folded her hands as she stared at her.

    "Maybe," Yan Mei mumbled, answering her question.

    She was really afraid if ever he had abandoned her just like everyone did. She knew she was being paranoid. Maybe Lei Zhao was very busy, or he had lost his phone. Yan Mei tried to convince herself as she took a deep breath.

    "Don''t think too much, Yan Mei¡­ when did he say he will be back?"

    "Tomorrow."

    "So why are you stressing yourself? Maybe he wants to give you space to wrap your head around this whole marriage deal or he is busy. Wait, if he doesn''te tomorrow then we think of something."

    Yan Mei nodded and a smile formed on her lips. Su Bei, too, put a sly smile. For the first time, she was seeing her friend stress over a guy. She was now really curious about this man.

    Su Bei retreated out of the office, leaving Yan Mei to her work. Yan Mei let out a breath and looked at the paperwork she had yet to go through.

    Afterpleting three contracts and reviewing her newest projects, Yan Mei pushed herself back leaning down on her chair then rubbed her hands on her exhausted face. Just as she was rxing, her phone shook indicating that she had gotten a message.

    ****

    Liu Yifei looked at Lei Zhao, and a sinister smile appeared on her lips.

    "Tell me, how did you convince this woman to marry you. Wait, don''t tell me you married her because your parents forced you to."

    Upon hearing what she said, Lei Zhao rolled his eyes at her as if she had said something stupid.

    "I married my wife because I want to¡­ not because someone wants me to. I value marriage."

    The corner of Liu Yifei''s mouth twitched, but she kept a lid on the smile.

    "You love her, don''t you? I can''t believe you have the heart to love someone!"

    Lei Zhao swore softly under his breath and shot her a re. If he knew he would meet her here at the coffee shop, he wouldn''t havee.

    Liu Yifei was the adopted sister of Edward Wu, one of Lei Zhao''s friends. She used to chase Lei Zhao when they were kids, but he rejected her one night when she told him she loves him.

    Lei Zhao felt she was too mischievous back then, and dating a friend''s sister was prohibited in their group.

    "Why wouldn''t I fall for her? She is perfect."

    Liu Yifei narrowed her eyes and smiled softly.

    "Hmm, I see." Liu Yifei giggled and patted him on his shoulder. "Let''s go to my house. My brother will be happy to see you!"

    "I''m not sleeping with you, Liu Yifei, I''m married," Lei Zhao frowned as he said.

    "Eww¡­ who wants to sleep with you!? My husband is much better than you!"

    Lei Zhaoughed when he saw the disgust on her face.

    "Just because he is a CEO of a multibillionpany? My wife is also a CEO, and she owns the biggest jewelry shop in city M."

    Liu Yifei widened her eyes in shock.

    "No way!"

    Seeing her reaction, Lei Zhao smiled at her.

    "Yes."

    "What does she see in you? She can do so much better!"

    Lei Zhao shrugged.

    "Give me your phone. I haven''t called her since I came here and my battery is dead."

    Lei Zhao had been busy dealing with traitors in his camp he had forgotten to call her. He didn''t know who was listening, so hey low-key for a while until he finds all of them. He couldn''t do anything that will put her life at risk.

    Liu Yifei looked at Lei Zhao, who was eager to call someone and sighed. Love really changes people.

    She got her phone from her pocket and gave it to him.

    "Thank you."

    Lei Zhao stared at the phone for a few minutes, contemting what to do. He remembered her number, but he didn''t know if he should call her or send her a message. Liu Yiefei looked at him with an amused look on her face.

    "Don''t tell me you are nervous to call your wife? Unless she doesn''t love you! You''re now chasing her?"

    Lei Zhao ignored her and stared at the phone in his hands.

    "Ha! Karma is a bitch, right?!"

    Liu Yifei giggled when she saw the nervous look on his face.

 Chapter 31 I missed you, wifey

    Yan Mei picked up the phone and a soft smile tugged at the corners of her lip when she saw the text message.

    Lei Zhao: Wifey, I hope you''re good. I''m sorry I was busy and I lost my phone. I miss you! I can''t wait to hold you in my arms. Take care."

    The moment Yan Mei saw the wifey, she knew it was from Lei Zhao. She stared at the message for a while, contemting whether she should reply or not.

    ''If I reply he will think I was waiting for his message,'' Yan Mei thought as she ced her phone back on the table. She heard a knock on the door before Su Bei entered again.

    "President Yan, your uncle is here."

    Yan Mei looked at her and frowned slightly.

    "Uncle," Yan Mei asked as she raised her brows.

    "Yes."

    A soft light passed through Yan Mei''s eyes when she heard her.

    "Let him in," she instructed then Su Bei nodded.

    "Okay, I''ll let him in," she said as she retreated out of the room.

    A few secondster, Yan Tang entered her office.

    "Sorry to disturb you, Yan Mei. I know you''re busy but Uncle needs your help," Yan Tang said as he stood in front of Yan Mei.

    For this niece of his, he really respects and admires her. She never fought for her shares in the family business and she hardly appeared in public. Only a few people know that she is rted to their family.

    "Uncle, please sit down. What''s wrong," Yan Mei asked as she looked at her uncle.

    She is really grateful for her uncle from preventing her frommitting suicide that night. He stayed by her side throughout the night.

    "That¡­ I went to discuss a deal with Mr. Xiu, and I let it slip that you''re my niece. He said his wife loves your collections and she would love to meet you. He will be hosting a birthday party for his wife in three weeks, and he invited you. Once youe, he will give me the contract."

    A frown formed on Yan Mei''s face. Even though she didn''t want to go to this party, she knew the importance of this deal for her uncle. She owes the man. It was a big opportunity for Yan''s cooperation to expand and she couldn''t let the chance go. After having aplicated debate with herself, Yan Mei finally gave in.

    "Alright, then I will see you at the party, uncle."

    Yan Tang smiled softly as he knew how his niece hated these social gatherings but because of him, she was going.

    "Okay, thank you, Yan Mei. Once I secure this deal, I will invite you for a meal."

    Yan Mei nodded.

    "Okay."

    Yan Tang ced the invitation on her table and stood up.

    "I know you''re busy, so I will not disturb you. See youter," he bid farewell, then Yan Mei nodded.

    ******

    After work, Yan Mei went to eat at a restaurant before going home. Emptiness consumed her when she entered the house. Sighing she went into the bathroom to take a bath. She needed to take her mind off Lei Zhao. She filled the tub and stripped off her clothes.

    She got into the scorching hot water, her tense muscles rxing as she lowered herself further inside. She leaned her head against the edge of the rail, closed her eyes, and let out a deep breath.

    Her hands unconsciously moved to her throbbing core, imagining it was Lei Zhao''s. Gulping, she reached her clit and stroke it softly. A light moan escaped her parting lips. One hand came to circle her nipples as her other hand circled her erged clit.

    Applying pressure, Yan Mei slowly rubbed her clit, she moaned Lei Zhao''s name imagining it was his hands. She pinched her nipples. Her hips rocked up against her fingers as the pressure built up.

    She moaned and bit her lip again as she started rubbing faster. Her breathing got heavier and she inserted two fingers in her pussy, the walls constricted against them. With her other hand, she flicked her clit sensually imagining Lei Zhao''s tongue licking and flickering it.

    She couldn''t take it anymore, her hands flickered quickly against her clit as she moved faster. A loud groan hit the bathroom as the pleasure hit her.

    "Lei Zhao!"

    She screamed as her hips bucked uncontrobly with her fingers still inside her. Her legs closed uncontrobly.

    "Wifey, I didn''t know you''re so naughty. Masturbating by yourself while I''m not around. If you missed me fucking you, you could have asked me toe home earlier. Not that I''mining, love¡­ watching you pleasure yourself while moaning my name is the hottest thing I have ever seen and a good wee gift."

    Yan Mei opened her eyes in shock when she heard Lei Zhao''s seductive voice which wasced with lust.

    She saw Lei Zhao leaning against the doorway with his arms crossed in front of his chest with that his evil smirk on his face. Her face burned with shame, humiliation, and embarrassment

    "What¡ªare you¡­ doing here," Yan Mei asked as she avoided his eyes.

    "Ouch, is that the way to wee your husband home, wifey," he smiled yfully.

    "Lei Zhao!"

    Yan Mei gritted her teeth in anger.

    Lei Zhao strode towards her slowly with a smile on his face. Yan Mei watched as he approached her and clenched her fist.

    Lei Zhao raised her chin when he reached her and whispered softly in her ears.

    "I missed you, wifey¡­"

    Then he let go of her chin and smiled at her. Before she could respond, Lei Zhao turned and walked towards the bedroom. Yan Mei looked at his back with aplicated look on her face.

    ''What are you doing to me, Lei Zhao,'' Yan Mei thought as she sighed.

 Chapter 32 Donâ€™t be rude

    The next day after Lei Zhao picked Yan Mei from work, they came to meet a strange man waiting for them at the door. She couldn''t deny that he was handsome. His blue hair hung in his eyes, loosely framing his face. He made no effort to move the bangs but instead, he stared at her from under them with his glinting grey eyes.

    A single earring hung on one ear, along with the ring that dangled on his nose. A leather jacket was draped around his chiseled frame. He had that bad boy temperament and he looked a little familiar but Yan Mei couldn''t remember where she had seen him.

    Li Wei strode forward when he saw them and looked at Yan Mei unabashedly. "You''re Yan Mei? My cousin''s wife?" Li Wei said with a thick disgust in his voice.

    "Li Wei!" Lei Zhao growled in anger. "This is my wife, don''t be rude."

    Yan Mei didn''t know who this is but judging from his tone, she can see he didn''t like her. He looked like a kid throwing tantrums in Yan Mei''s eyes. She was toozy to deal with a kid now.

    Seeing that Yan Mei was looking at him indifferently, Li Wei felt a little ufortable.

    "You don''t know me?" Li Wei looked at Yan Mei strangely, raising his eyebrows.

    "Which have you been living on?" Li Wei is now the most popr idol in the country. His new album is the most streamed song this year.

    As the young master of the Li family, one of the top three families in the country, he was used to girls fawning over him or trying all sort of tricks to get his attention, so he felt a little ufortable when he saw Yan Mei''s indifferent face as if he couldn''t even get in her eyes!.

    Yan Mei didn''t know where his hostility came from and she didn''t want to know, she just wanted to go and sleep. She has been working tirelessly for her new men''s watch collection, and now all she wants to do is sleep.

    Lei Zhao gave Li Wei a warning look before saying to Yan Mei, "This is my cousin, Li Wei. He has been spoilt since he was a kid that why his manners are bad, you don''t worry about him." Lei Zhao said softly.

    "Oh, I see". Yan Mei nodded slightly.

    "Then, I will go inside first. It seems you have a lot to say to each other."

    "Alright."

    Li Wei looked at his cousin talking softly to Yan Mei and frowned. The moment Yan Mei left, Li Wei looked at Lei Zhao seriously.

    "Cousin, are you really married to that woman? The fact that she doesn''t even know who I am, shows she is not from the upper ss, so what do you even see in her?" Li Wei narrowed his eyes with a lot of disdain.

    "Li Wei!" Lei Zhao''s voice was cold and he said seriously.

    "She is my wife! I wouldn''t stand by for you to disrespect her. I don''t care if you''re family but if you dare say one more word disrespecting her don''t me me for being rude." Lei Zhao''s cold voice made Li Wei shivered.

    How can he forget that even though Lei Zhao on the outside is gentle and modest he is a really cold and dangerous person? But Li Wei hade here with a purpose and he didn''t want to go without achieving it!

    "Cousin, what about Tang Wei? She has been waiting for you since we were kids! You can''t-"

    "Li Wei, do you know the number of girls who like me as the future heir of one of the biggest oilpanies in this country? Should I marry all of them?" Lei Zhao said indifferently.

    Li Wei knew that Lei Zhao was angry now.

    "But Tang Wei is so much better than her, what do you even see in that woman that you married her?"

    Lei Zhaozily looked at Li Wei. "I''m a man, naturally I like a woman who is pretty."

    Li Wei had to agree that Yan Mei was very beautiful, even though her face was indifferent it was hard to find a beautiful woman which a strong aura like her.

    "But Tang Wei-"

    "Is Miss Tang more beautiful?" Lei Zhao asked with a smirk on his face.

    "Even if she isn''t as beautiful as Yan Mei, she is smarter!"

    Lei Zhao sighed, his patience was running out.

    "Li Wei, listen carefully. There is no way I will ever go out with Tang Wei. Even if I hadn''t married Yan Mei I wouldn''t have married her. I had a girlfriend before remember? Why didn''t I ask Tang Wei out when she dumped me? " Li Wei scratched his head.

    "Stop giving her false hope and tell her to wake from whatever fantasy she is in. She will never be Mrs. Lei."

    Lei Zhao walked away after saying this. He doesn''t know what ecstasy soup that woman has given to Li Wei making him do her bidding. He shook his head slightly.

    Li Wei bit his lips and his hate for Yan Mei increased. He felt that woman has bewitched his cousin. His cousin has never rose his voice at him but today because of a woman he did! He will let her pay.

    Li Wei didn''t know that Yan Mei wasn''t someone he could afford to mess with it. Unfortunately, he learned that the hard way.

 Chapter 33 Wang Lu

    *shback*

    "Close your eyes and give me your right hand, Meimei," Wang Lu whispered into her ear, standing behind her. Feng Mei smiled softly and closed her eyes and stretched out her hand.

    She felt him softly massaging her wrist. She felt a cold object on her wrist and touched it.

    "Open your eyes."

    She opened her eyes and looked at the object on her wrist. Her eyes became moist when she saw the beautiful bracelet on her wrist.

    It was a stunning customized hand-woven rope bracelet with a gold namete with the words "Together forever LM", abination of their name Lu And Mei.

    She turned to look at him and wrapped her hands around his neck and hugged him tightly.

    "Happy anniversary, Meimei. I love you."

    He kissed the top of her head and she smiled shyly at him. Wang Luughed when he saw her shy look. They had been married for a year now, but his wife was still shy of him.

    Feng Mei red at him when she saw himughing at her. She ignored him and touched the bracelet. Even though it was a simple bracelet, she really liked it!

    "It''s beautiful," Feng Mei said with a smile on her face. Wang Lu tucked a hair behind her ear.

    "Yes, beautiful."

    Feng Mei didn''t know whether he was talking about the bracelet or her. Wang Lu leaned down and captured her lips in a kiss. Feng Mei wrapped her hands around his neck and kissed him back passionately.

    She moaned slightly when she felt his hand on her breast. He plucked her nipple gently and it sent tingles all over her body. She pulled away with a blush on her face and leaned her head against his.

    "I''m on my period, Hunny. We can''t."

    Wang Lu could hear the smile in her voice. He groaned in annoyance. How can she get her period on their fucking anniversary?!

    "I love you, Hunny."

    Wang Lu swallowed his bitterint and replied softly.

    "I love you, Meimei."

    \u003e\u003e\u003ePresent

    Wang Lu sighed and buried his head into his hands. The memories of his ex-wife had been haunting him for years now. He wanted to forget her, but he couldn''t.

    Why can''t he forget about her? Why is it so hard to let go?

    She had fooled him. She had shattered his heart into pieces. God, he loved her¡ªno, he still does. He felt his head spinning. He loosened his tie and sighed. He opened his drawer and removed the bracelet. He still remembered her tears that night and thest words she said to him.

    "I hate you," she whispered. She stared at him with disappointment written all over her face. "Once you realize your mistake, it will be toote," she added as she threw the bracelet at him.

    Wang Lu felt his eyes bing glossy as he held back his tears as best as he could.

    He shouldn''t be remembering the past. It had been five years now and he had never seen her again.

    He wanted to hate her for what she did to him but as they say, it is never truly easy to get over your first love even when you convinced yourself that you''ve moved on.

    Wang Lu felt his heart constricting with pain. He snapped his eyes shut and leaned against his seat.

    Memories of her consumed his thoughts and he felt a tear escape his eyes.

    "Why did you hurt me, Meimei¡­ was my love not enough," Wang Lu whispered in the silent room with no one to respond to him.

    *****

    Yan Mei and Lei Zhao settled together on the couch while watching television. His hand rested on her shoulders while his finger smoothly yed with her hair. They looked like an old couple hanging out right now.

    Yan Mei turned to look at him and he pressed a kiss on her forehead gently. That simple action caused her to feel shivers along her spine. She reverted her eyes to the screen.

    "Wifey, are you ready to meet my parents tomorrow?"

    Yan Mei froze when she heard him.

    "Yeah."

    She knew that sooner orter she will meet his parents so there was no need to dying it.

    Lei Zhao squeezed her hands gently tofort her.

    "Don''t worry¡­ they will like you."

    Yan Mei nodded as they continued watching the television.

    "Wow, that guy is so hot," Yan Mei said referring to Yang Yang. They were watching Love 020.

    A frowned marred on Lei Zhao''s forehead.

    "Hotter than me?"

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes at him.

    "Don''t insult my male god, okay? How can you evenpare yourself to him? Look at his smile. So perfect!"

    Yan Mei cupped her cheeks in her hands as she said with a soft smile.

    "Wifey, how can you say that? What makes him hotter than me?"

    Yan Mei giggled. He sounded like a whining kid, and she loved teasing him.

    "Look at his sexy bum, it looks so yummy that I wanna bite it."

    Lei Zhao widened his eyes and ced his hand on her forehead. He refused to believe the person who just said that was his wifey.

    "Wifey, is it you? Or you have a fever?"

    Yan Mei heaved a sigh when she heard him. The fact that she was a domineering CEO didn''t mean that she doesn''t appreciate beautiful men. She was a hardcore fangirl before bing a CEO!

    "I have told you, there are a lot of things you don''t know about me," Yan Mei said, tracing his chest with her finger. She liked touching him like this.

    "Wifey, I will wait for you to let me in," Lei Zhao said as he kissed her forehead.

    Yan Mei smiled and stopped tracing her finger on his chest. She kissed him passionately and he responded fervently. Yan Mei ran her fingers through his hair and pulled away.

    "Thank you."

    She knows Lei Zhao was curious about her past and her nightmares but he never forced her to tell him. Those scars from the past are too much for her to bear. She didn''t want to talk about it yet, and honestly, she is afraid¡­ afraid that he will leave her once he knows her past.

    Can he ept a divorced woman? That is Yan Mei''s biggest fear.

    She knew she was being selfish, but for the first in a long time, she was actually happy. Happy with a guy and she didn''t want a tainted past to ruin this moment for her.

    Lei Zhao smiled softly.

    "I''m always here, once you''re ready to talk."

    Yan Mei nodded and turned her attention back on the screen, to hide the emotions brewing in her eyes.

 Chapter 34 I only want her

    Yan Mei was a little nervous to meet the rest of Lei Zhao''s family. Even though his mother is really nice. She can''t say the same thing about the rest. Taking a deep breath, she looked at the dresses in her closets.

    She didn''t know which dress she should wear. She realized she had no casual dress. All her dresses are office wear and some were evenfy clothes she wore when she is at home.

    After contemting for a while, she settled on a simple colored A-line printed pleated red midi skirt with pockets, a fitted cashmere sweater in cranberry with matching heels.

    Lei Zhao smiled unconsciously when he saw hering out of the room. He pushed her closer to him. His hands went around her waist and held her firmly as if he knew she will push him away.

    Yan Mei ced his hands on his chest and pulled away from him. Lei Zhao didn''t let her go, but he kept his arms around her and pulled away looking at her.

    "Wifey, you look so beautiful."

    He chuckled and kissed the tip of her nose. Yan Mei smiled against his lips as he kissed her.

    "I really want to remove these clothes," Lei Zhao said huskily.

    "I''m not going to have sex with you, Lei Zhao."

    Lei Zhao pulled away and raised an eyebrow.

    "What about a quickie¡­?"

    "Lei Zhao," Yan Mei warned pulling away from him but he didn''t let her go.

    "I know, I''m kidding," he said with a grin. "It just you look so hot in this cranberry color. It really suits you," he added as he held her gaze. "Just let me kiss you, alright?"

    Yan Mei nodded. She knew that even though she didn''t love him, she loved his kisses.

    Lei Zhao smiled as he kissed her. She wrapped her arms around his neck. His hands rested on her waist as she gently tugged on the back of his hair. He groaned.

    They kissed passionately with their tongue battling with each other. Yan Mei didn''t even know how long the kisssted before they pulled away from each other.

    ****

    Once they reached Lei Zhao''s parents'' house, Yan Mei widened her eyes at the house in front of her¡ªno, actually it was a mansion. It was huge and beautiful. Two armed guards in uniform rushed to open the gate and bowed respectfully when their car passed by them.

    They drove up a steep driveway lined with palm trees. A massive pool of fountains rose out of the driveway. Thete morning sun made the house more beautiful.

    Yan Mei had seen a better house, but what shocked her was that this was Lei Zhao''s parents'' house. She knows this house might have caused a fortune.

    Once they reached the door of the mansion, Lei Zhao hurriedly got down and opened the door for her. Yan Mei got down and clenched her fist, her palms were sweating.

    "Wifey, are you nervous?"

    Yan Mei shook her head. She was a little nervous. Based on the house, she realized Lei Zhao''s parents might not be ordinary people like she had thought. She wondered if his father will like her¡­

    Lei Zhao smiled softly and said, "Wifey, don''t worry. My dad will like you."

    Yan Mei looked up and saw his parents waiting for them at the door. Holding her hand, Lei Zhao walked forward.

    "Dad, Mom."

    It''s been a long time since Mr. Lei saw his son. When he saw him, he was a little excited but his cold face didn''t give anything away. His eyes fell on Yan Mei who was beside Lei Zhao, and an unknown glint passed through his eyes.

    Why is that face so familiar?

    "Wifey, greet our parents," Lei Zhao said softly.

    As soon as the words fell, Mr. Lei was shocked. Is this person his ruthless son? As a man, he can see the pampering in his son''s eyes and tone. It seems his son loves the woman in front of him.

    Lei Xiao Tong already knew her son was in love with the girl so she wasn''t as surprised as her husband.

    "Mom, Dad," Yan Mei greeted them politely.

    "Xiaomei," Lei Xiao Tong said excitedly as she pulled her into a warm embrace.

    Yan Mei didn''t know how to respond. Just as she was contemting on what to do, Lei Xiao Tong pulled away from her.

    Lei Zhao''s parents were amiable people, seeing that their youngest son likes a woman, they decided to support his decision.

    Lei Xiao Tong excitedly pulled Yan Mei into the house.

    "Lei Zhao,e with me to the study," Mr. Lei said.

    In the study, Mr. Lei sat on the chair and looked at his son. He couldn''t help but feel emotional. Ever since his eldest son died, Lei Zhao had been working hard. He remembered he was the most troublesome and carefree out of the two of his sons.

    But ever since his brother died, he became emotionally indifferent. Seeing him softening for a woman, he was shocked.

    "Lei Zhao, are you sure about this¡­ your sh marriage?"

    "Yes, dad. I only want her."

    Seeing him admitting his affection openly for the woman, Mr. Lei couldn''t help but be shocked again.

    Concealing the shock in his heart he asked, "I learned we couldn''t find anything about her past, have you asked her?"

    Lei Zhao has never mentioned anything about her past before. He doesn''t want to force her. Sooner orter, she will tell him.

    "I don''t care. Once she is ready, she will tell me."

    Mr. Lei didn''t expect his son to marry a woman whose identity is mysterious. Even though she was the young Miss of the Yan family, no one knew who she was beforeing to this city. The fact that they couldn''t find her background shows that a powerful force is behind her.

    He shook his head at his son. He was happy at the bottom of his heart. His son had gone through a lot and if this woman makes his happy, then he will support him.

    Also, he has heard a lot about his daughter-inw in the business mall and he is impressed.

    "If you have decided then, I don''t have anything to say. If anything happens, know that I''m here for you. When you have time, take her to see your grandfather."

    "Okay, dad."

 Chapter 35 Can I chase you?

    On the other hand, Lei Xiao Tong looked at her daughter-inw who had hardly spoken and couldn''t help butpare her to her eldest son. How can she be indifferent as her eldest son?

    She sighed. She realized that although she was indifferent she listened attentively to everything she says.

    When she was educating her about the norms of the family, she will deliberately ask her a question to see if she was listening but her daughter-inw will repeat exactly what she said without missing a word. Lei Xiao Tong was shocked, her daughter-inw was really a genius.

    Since her son is also a genius and her daughter-inw is also a genius. This means her grandchild will also be a genius in the future. Thinking about her grandchild, Lei Xiao Tong couldn''t help but get excited. She knows her son was now working hard to make her daughter-inw fall in love with him so she cannot pressure her with a child now.

    Thinking about her son, Lei Xiao Tong decided to say a few words for him. Unfortunately, she never got the chance. Since Lei Zhao''s''s love rival appeared.

    "Xiaomei-"

    "Grandma!"

    A child''s excited voice sounded. Yan Mei turned and saw a child about three years old running towards them.

    Lei Xiao Tong smiled brightly when she saw her sister''s grandson running towards her.

    "Niu Niu," Lei Xiao Tong said as she hugged the little boy and ced him on herp

    Yan Mei looked at the cute child, and a smile unconsciously formed on her lips. She has always been fond of children. She suddenly thought about her own child and a pang of sadness overwhelmed her. Because Lei Xiao Tong was focused on the child she didn''t see.

    Niu Niu turned his head when he felt a gaze on him and saw a good-looking sister smiling at him. But he saw the sadness in her smile though. He got down from Lei Xiao Tong''sp and run towards Yan Mei.

    "Are you my auntie?"

    Yan Mei didn''t know who the child was so she didn''t know how to respond to him.

    "This is my eldest sister''s grandson, Liang Shao, but his nickname is Niu Niu meaning a cute, strong, and energetic kid. He is staying with me for the weekend."

    Lei Xiao Tong saw her helplessness and told her who the child is.

    "Niu Niu, how did you know she is your auntie?" Lei Xiao Tong asked.

    "Grandma, you told me Uncle Zhao got married and I have never seen this beautiful sister before so I thought it must be her," Niu Niu said with a small pout on his face.

    Yan Mei hugged Niu Niu and ced him on hisp.

    "Are you called Niu Niu," Yan Mei asked with a smile on her face.

    "Yes, all my friends call me Niu Niu. Beautiful sister, what''s your name?"

    "Yan Mei."

    Niu Niu smiled happily. He thinks Yan Mei is very beautiful¡­ even more beautiful than his mommy!

    "Beautiful sister, you''re so beautiful! Can I call you Boo Boo?"

    Yan Mei raised an eyebrow.

    "Boo Boo? Why?"

    Niu Niu smiled and looked at the floor shyly.

    "Because I think it matches my name, Niu Niu, Boo Boo. don''t you think so?"

    Yan Mei burst outughing when she heard his childish words. Niu Niu stared at Yan Mei who wasughing and his whole face turned red. This sister is so beautiful. He was looking for a beautiful girlfriend and he thinks he has found one.

    "Okay, you can call me that." Niu Niu''s face brightened.

    "Beautiful sister, can I chase you?"

    Lei Zhao who just came out of his father''s study heard this. He turned to look at his nephew and wanted to spank that stinky kid!

    "You stinky kid, that''s my wife!"

    Lei Xiao Tong burst outughing when she saw his son getting jealous of a kid.

    "Boo Boo, my uncle is already old. You don''t have to follow him. If you be my girlfriend, I will give you my pocket money. If it''s not enough, I will sell my toys, too," Niu Niu said with his milky voice.

    Yan Meiughed when she turned and saw Lei Zhao''s ckface. This stupid guy¡­ is he really angry because of a kid? Because Yan Mei liked teasing him, she didn''t let go of this opportunity.

    "Niu Niu, your uncle has already signed the marriage certificate. Ask him if he will agree," Yan Mei threw the question to Lei Zhao.

    "Uncle Zhao, you find another wife! Boo Boo is mine. I will give you mytest toy car," Niu Niu said sadly.

    "You¡­ don''t you have a lot of beautiful girls at school? Why do you want to steal my wife?"

    Lei Zhao suddenly had a sense of crisis. He hasn''t even won his wife''s love and now there are already leeches looking at his wife.

    Looking at Yan Mei, his wife is very beautiful. She can even rival Marian Rivera, his childhood celebrity crush.

    "The girls at school are not pretty like Boo Boo. They are so childish too." Niu Niu pouted. "Boo Boo, you like me right?!"

    Yan Mei looked at the Niu Niu and squeezed his soft cheeks. This kid''s mouth was so sweet.

    "I''m your uncle''s wife. I can''t be your girlfriend. But we can be good friends, okay?"

    Niu Niu thought for a while with his head down. before raising his head. "Okay, we can be friends first. But I won''t give up!"

    Lei Zhao smiled and shook his head helplessly. "Now call her Auntie, not Boo Boo," Lei Zhao said sternly.

    Niu Niu shook his head, hugged his hands across his chest and pouted.

    "No, she is my Boo Boo. I won''t call her auntie!"

    Lei Zho ran a frustrated hand through his hair.

    "Hahaha," Lei Xiao Tong wiped the tears from the corner of her eyes. This kid will kill her son.

    Mr. Lei who was standing beside Lei Zhao patted his son''s shoulder. "Son, it seems there are a lot of predators staring at your wife. You have to work hard."

    Lei Zhao heard the amusement in his father''s voice and groaned. He really wanted to spank this kid. He dares to grab his wife from him.

    "Uncle Zhao, I willpete fairly with you," Niu Niu, said squeezing his small fist and showed it to Lei Zhao.

    "You haven''t learned anything about life and you are thinking about stealing someone''s wife. Let''s talk when you grow up."

    Lei Xiao Tongughed when she saw how naive her son sounded.

 Chapter 36 First gif

    In a blink of an eye, it was already a month since Yan Mei and Lei Zhao got married. Even though she didn''t want to admit it, Yan Mei knew he was changing her. She was growing attached to this man and she couldn''t help it.

    She thought she will never give her heart to a man again but with Lei Zhao; she wanted to take a chance. Matters of the heart are veryplicated. One second you feel shattered and broken because you give love a chance and then you think you will never recover from the pain or fall in love again. Then in a blink of an eye, you find the same heart beating again for another man.

    Maybe being in love is God''s punishment. What is worse than two people who are clearly in love with each other, hurting each other?

    From onwards, she will let go of everything. Why should she cry over someone who couldn''t even trust the woman he swore he loved? A man who wasn''t bold enough to listen to her exnation or trust the woman who nearly lost her life for him.

    Why should she torment herself when there is a man who loves her and has always been there for her? Anytime she has a nightmare, he will hold her tightly in his arms coaxing her before she falls asleep. He always pampers and dotes on her even when she is moody.

    Yan Mei wants to be happy. She is tired of being lonely and feeling empty all these years. Her daughter and mother would want her to be happy.

    Yan Mei didn''t know what the future entitles. Maybe she will never get her happily ever after, but she will surely enjoy this moment and make beautiful memories to rece the bad ones. Even though she doesn''t love him yet, she knows it was just a matter of time before she falls for him.

    That day, sitting at the dining table with his parents and Niu Niu made her realize what she had been missing in her life all this while. She had neverughed as much as she did that night. She still remembered the battering of Lei Zhao and Niu Niu as they argued over who gave her the most meat and the one she likes.

    Yan Mei saw how much his parents considered her as their daughter, and the love she saw in their eyes. At that moment she felt arge part of her iced heart-melting. She felt warmth and happiness that she hadn''t felt in a long time. Yan Mei felt she was worthy of love again.

    She wouldn''t let anyone take this happiness away from her. If the world tried to take her happiness away from her again, she will battle with the world. Someone said that the most painful goodbyes are the ones that are never said and never exined, unfortunately, she had experienced this.

    The sound of her phone ringing brought Yan Mei out of his stupor. She sighed as she realized that she had been thinking a lot these days. Maybe it''s her way of forcing herself to psychologically move on.

    She picked the call and saw that she had missed several missed calls from Lei Zhao. Because of theunch of her new collections, she had been spending most of her time at the office since they came back from his parents'' ce.

    Yan Mei can still remember his mood when they came back that night. He was jealous of a kid! She never thought a big guy like Lei Zhao can be so na?ve. He kept whining all night!

    A smile tugged at the corners of her lip as her eyes strayed at the wall clock. It was already ten o''clock pm. She knows he must probably be waiting for her like every night.

    Yan Mei: Hey, I will be back in half an hour.

    Yan Mei sent him a text message and cleared the folders on her table. She opened her drawer and removed a small box from it. He had inspired her for this design. She hopes he likes her gift.

    ***

    When Yan Mei got home, the light in the living room was still on. She opened the door and changed into a pair of slippers. When she walked into the living room, she saw the man who was sleeping on the sofa and she was stunned.

    The dim light fell on his deep silhouette. His pure and soft features were mesmerizing. She stared at his face for a few minutes. She realized his eyshes were very long, making Yan Mei feel jealous. How can a guy get such long eyshes?

    Yan Mei sighed and walked to the bedroom to pick a nket to cover him. Just as she was about to cover him with the nket, Lei Zhao suddenly opened his eyes. His big hand held hers and pulled her into his arms. He let her sit on his legs while he buried his face in her shoulder.

    "Wifey¡­"

    Hearing his gentle voice filled with deep tenderness, Yan Mei became a little absentminded. She hugged him back unconsciously, with his head still buried in her shoulder.

    "Hmm¡­ "

    Lei Zhao grinned when he realized she had hugged him back. He knew he was slowly crawling in her heart.

    "I miss you¡­ don''t you miss me too?"

    Yan Mei stiffened when she heard him. Trying to dodge his question, she picked her bag on the opposite sofa and removed an exquisite box and gave it to him. Lei Zhao looked at the exquisite box for a while and when he took the box, his eyes still remained on her.

    Although there was no special expression on her face, he saw the eagerness in her eyes.

    "This is for me?"

    When he realized his wife has bought something for him, Lei Zhao was excited and surprised.

    He opened the box and saw a stunning men chronograph blue military waterproof stainless-steel wristwatch with a blue leather strap. The design was one of the best he has seen.

    "Do you like it," Yan Mei asked

    "No, I don''t like it." Lei Zhao said nkly.

    "Oh," Yan Mei said disappointed.

    "I will go take a shower if you don''t like it you don''t have to wear it," Yan Mei said indifferently but deep down she was sad.

    She thought he will like the first gift she had given him. This collection was her masterpiece but it seems he didn''t like it. Is there something wrong with the design?

    Yan Mei picked her bag and got up from hisp. The moment she turned around and took a step she felt someone hugging her from behind.

    "Wifey," Lei Zhao said emotionally. Yan Mei stiffened but she still tried to remain indifferent. She couldn''t let him see her disappointment. "Are you angry because I said I don''t like your gift," Lei Zhao asked softly.

    "No, why would I be?" Yan Mei snorted. "It''s a gift, you can like it or not," she continued.

    Lei Zhao pulled away and turned her around to face him. He tucked her hair behind her ears and softly rubbed his thumb against her cheeks.

    "Hmm." Lei Zhao nodded.

    Yan Mei''s heart dropped when she saw him nodding. Lei Zhao giggled when he saw her low mood. He looked at the watch and his eyes sh a soft light.

    "I don''t like the watch, Wifey¡­ I love it," Lei Zhao said with an enormous grin on his face. He looked like a kid who has received his favorite toy. He doesn''t think any gift canpare to this watch.

    It was the first gift she had given him and she designed it herself. He is the first person to wear her first limited edition of watches. How can he not like it?

    Yan Mei looked up to meet his eyes when she heard him. They stared at each other in a heat filled moment, as she looked into his piercing eyes. Yan Mei felt herself being lost in his stare.

    Her heart skipped a beat when she felt his breath fan across her cheeks. She thought he would kiss her, but he pulled her closer and printed a soft kiss on a forehead.

    "Thank you."

 Chapter 37 Nightmare.

    "Meimei, where are you," Wang Lu asked as he searched every corner of the house. He was getting worried. She was always there waiting for him when hees back home from work, but today she wasn''t there.

    With a panic-stricken face, he loosened his tie and shouted her name again.

    "Meimei!!"

    The servants said she hasn''t stepped foot outside of their room today, so where was she? Wang Lu stopped for a second and realized he didn''t check the left-wing of the house.

    She liked to hide there when they were ying sometimes. With a relieved smile, Wang Lu ran towards the left-wing of the house. He took a deep breath and wiped the sweats on his face when he saw her standing there.

    Bright yellow lights gleamed through the windows and fell on her. Her deste back was facing him.

    Inexplicably, Wang Lu had a bad premonition in his heart. A feeling of impending doom overwhelmed him.

    "Meimei?"

    He called out her name softly. Wang Lu walked towards her slowly, like he was afraid everything was an illusion and she will disappear at any moment.

    Just as he reached a foot away from her, Feng Mei turned around. Wang Lu widened his eyes in fear and panic when he saw the scene in front of him.

    Feng Mei was wearing a ck A-line V neck floor-length satin dress with beading sequins. Her eyes were frosted over, with a statuesque look of pain etched in her face. Blood was oozing from her eyes and her heart was torn open. She was holding her beating heart in her hand with blood oozing from it, staining her dress. The sound of blood dripping on the floor sounded in the quiet hall.

    Wang Lu felt his whole body frozen at that moment. No words could exin his mood at that moment. Terror, panic, hurt, sadness, self-me, and horror. He looked up at her, he wanted to ask why¡­ but it seems a big hand was holding his throat.

    He couldn''t make a sound or move. It was like an external force was keeping him from doing anything, it wanted him to watch how he has hurt the woman he swore he loved and will protect.

    Time seemed to freeze as they gaze at each other. For what seemed like an eternity, he finally saw her soft lips stretch into a smile but it didn''t reach her eyes. They were filled with sadness. He would haveughed when he saw the forced expression of her trying to smile which made her face look distorted if it didn''t make his heart feel heavy.

    "Goodbye." Wang Lu heard her whisper in the quiet hall. He wanted to scream, he wanted to call out her name and tell her how much he loves her, but he couldn''t.

    He didn''t want to turn into a random image that floated in the pool of her memory. He could only watch as she disappeared from his sight. Tears welled up in his eyes and spilled down his cheeks. Soon, he was weeping helplessly. He fell on the ground the moment she disappeared.

    "NO!!"

    Wang Lu screamed as his eyes shot open. Heunched himself off the bed in an upright position panting heavily. He was sweating profusely and his eyes were bloodshot. He took a deep breath and turned to look at his rm clock which was beeping.

    Groaning, he shut down the annoying clock which was making noise.

    Wang Lu didn''t know why but after this nightmare he felt emptier¡­ like he had lost something important. His mood was quiteplicated.

    This is the third nightmare he has had this week. Different scenes, but one thing wasmon among his nightmares. Feng Mei was always saying goodbye to him.

    The look of sadness on her face mounted a roar of memories, reminding him too much of what he did. He knew he shouldn''t have thrown her on the streets when she had no one.

    He could have filed for a decent divorce, but his anger blinded him. His ego got the best of him. He cringed and tried to extract himself from his sorrow, weakness, and regrets.

    He sighed as he fell into deep thought.

    ''Were these nightmares trying to say something to me?''

    ******

    Lei Zhao woke up in the morning and looked at the woman sleeping beside him with her hand around his waist, head buried under his underarm, and their legs that were intertwined. He smiled softly. He wanted to wake up like this every morning.

    If someone had told him, he will fall in love about a month ago, he would haveughed at the person and call the person crazy. But here he was smiling like a fool over a woman whom he knows doesn''t love him. He didn''t mind though; he knew eventually he will have her whole heart.

    He shifted gently, trying not to wake her up. He wanted to get a better look at her face. She looked so beautiful even when she is sleeping. Lei Zhao didn''t know when he fell in love with her but he knew he loves her.

    Heck, he will never let anyone hurt her again.

    He brushed the strands of hair that covered her cheeks gently to the side. Yan Mei stirred in her sleep when she felt his hands on her cheeks. Slowly, she opened her eyes and stared at him.

    "Good morning," Lei Zhao greeted as he ced tiny kisses on her neck.

    "Morning," Yan Mei murmured.

    "Did you sleep well," Lei Zhao asked as he grinned. Yan Mei nodded and Lei Zhao rolled on top of her and she squealed.

    He rubbed his hard erection on her thighs with a smirk on his face, and she moaned.

    "You....what are you doing?"

    Lei Zhao thrust in her leisurely. Yan Mei didn''t even know when he removed her panties.

    ."We can''t¡ªoh God!"

    Yan Mei clenched the sheet of the bed when he removed his cock and thrust deeper, increasing his speed.

    "Don''t stop."

    Lei Zhao grinned when he heard her and ced her legs on his shoulder as he thrust deeper into her.

    He groaned once they both climaxed then he ced a kiss on her forehead.

    "Go take a shower, I will prepare breakfast."

    Yan Mei got down from the bed and tried to steady her shaky legs. Lei Zhao smirked in satisfaction.

    Just as Yan Mei was halfway to the bathroom, she heard a growl from Lei Zhao.

    "Wifey, if you don''t hurry, we might not leave this room today."

    Yan Mei red at him and hurriedly rushed into the bathroom, mming the door shut. She could hear Lei Zhao''sughter even from behind the door.

    She wanted to wake up every morning like this, Yan Mei thought as she stood under the shower with a smile on her face.

 Chapter 38 Shopping

    <h4>Chapter 38 Shopping</h4>

    When Yan Mei came downstairs after taking a shower, she saw Lei Zhao cooking. He was shirtless and was only seen wearing his sweatpants. He seemed to have taken a bath in the guest room. The smell of pancakes filled the air, which caused her stomach to growl.

    "Hungry?"

    Yan Mei cheeks burned red, and she quickly tried to fight the blush down. Lei Zhao sent her dashing grin.

    "It''s normal to be hungry from all the fun we had this morning."

    Yan Mei blushed softly when she heard him and sent him a scowl. Lei Zhao smirked. It''s been a long time since he saw his wife blush. He liked how her cheeks became red from blushing. She looked cute.

    Yan Mei ignored him and took a seat at the kitchen counter. Flipping up thest pancake, Lei Zhao grabbed a te, stacking the pancakes onto it before serving them to her with a warm expression on his face.

    "Maple syrup?"

    Yan Mei raised a brow and smiled.

    "Sure."

    Lei Zhao handed her the bottle of syrup and she took it. Lei Zhao prepared a cup of coffee for them and came to sit beside her. A smile crawled up on Lei Zhao''s face as he watched Yan Mei eat.

    "Aren''t you going to eat," Yan Mei asked when she saw him just staring at her without eating.

    Lei Zhao shrugged and smirked.

    "I enjoy watching my wife eat the food I prepared with a look of satisfaction on her face."

    Yan Mei snickered and rolled her eyes.

    "Stop staring and eat," Yan Mei said.

    Lei Zhao nodded when he heard her and silently ate his pancakes, lost in his thoughts.

    A dead silence fell between them. None of them wanted to speak first. The silence thickened every second they didn''t speak. The silence made Yan Mei feel ufortable, so she stopped eating and looked up at him.

    Her breath hitched when she caught him staring at her. Lei Zhao leaned over the counter and licked the corner of her mouth. He raised his eyebrows at her and leaned back against the chair.

    "You had syrup on your mouth," he said when he saw the questioning look on her face. Yan Mei blushed.

    "Oh," she muttered, looking down at the te of pancakes to hide her embarrassment Lei Zhao chuckled and ruffled her hair.

    "Wifey, don''t be shy."

    Yan Mei cleared her throat and picked up her cup.

    "Who is shy," Yan Mei snorted.

    Lei Zhao shook his head and chuckled. He dug his fork into his pancake and popped them into his mouth.

    "Don''t mind me¡­ after all, why should you be shy when your husband is helping you wipe a syrup from your mouth," Lei Zhao replied in amusement.

    Yan Me red at him, but she said nothing to refute what he said.

    "Will you be busy today," Lei Zhao asked softly.

    Yan Mei shook her head and answered, "No."

    Lei Zhao beamed at her when he heard her. "Let''s go shopping."

    "You want to take me shopping," Yan Mei asked, surprised. He doesn''t look like someone who will apany a woman to go shopping.

    "Yes, don''t you like shopping?"

    Seeing the eager look on his face and realizing she doesn''t have any casual clothes. Yan Mei agreed.

    "Okay, let''s go."

    "Great!" Lei Zhao said, winking at Yan Mei who blushed under his gaze.

    ****

    In the fitting room, Yan Mei looked at her reflection in the mirror and swallowed. She has never worn such a revealing style of clothing. It was a red floral backless dress that entuated all her curves and held unto her figures perfectly. She was nervous to go out in this dress.

    Lei Zhao frowned when he realized Yan Mei hasn''te out of the fitting room. He knocked on the door,

    "Wifey?"

    Yan Mei turned to look at the door when she heard Lei Zhao calling her.

    Before Yan Mei could respond, Lei Zhao came inside. He widened his eyes in shock when he saw her. She looked beautiful. He strode forward and stood behind her.

    Yan Mei looked at the mirror and saw him behind her. Lei Zhao traced his finger at her bareback and Yan Mei shivered. Lei Zhao removed the rubber band that held her hair in a ponytail and let her hair fall on her shoulders.

    "Wifey, I wanna rip this dress off you right now," Lei Zhao said hoarsely in her ears. Yan Mei''s breath hitched, but she tried to hide the effect his words on her.

    "Is it okay," Yan Mei asked tly.

    Lei Zhao smirked and nodded.

    "It''s beautiful but I don''t like the fact that it is a backless dress. I don''t want another man to look at what is mine."

    Yan Mei smiled, "What about if I wear it only for you?"

    Lei Zhao grinned wolfishly when he heard her.

    "That one can be epted."

    Yan Mei turned to look at him.

    "Possessive, huh?"

    Lei Zhao giggled.

    "Just protecting what is mine."

    Yan Mei smiled and pushed him out of the fitting room.

    After she came out of the fitting room, Lei Zhao had already paid for everything.

    "Send these clothes to this address." Lei Zhao took a pen and wrote an address.

    Then, naturally, he took Yan Mei''s hand and walked out of the shop. After they went out, the cashier and shopping guide couldn''t help but gossip.

    "My God, they look so good together! I want a guy to look at me the way the guy looks at her."

    Lei Zhao and Yan Mei didn''t know they were an ideal couple for people right now. After buying a lot of shoes for her at different shops, Yan Mei was in a good mood.

    She never thought shopping with a guy can be this fun! Looking at the soft light in her eyes, a smile crawled on Lei Zhao''s face.

    "Are you tired?"

    Yan Mei nodded. They had gone to about five shops. Since both of them were rich, they didn''t realize the exorbitant amount of money they have spent.

    "Let''s eat lunch."

    Lei Zhao led Yan Mei to a nearby restaurant. Just as they were about to enter, a woman who had a noble temperament and was dressed in thetest fashion dress called out Lei Zhao''s name.

    "Brother Zhao."

 Chapter 39 She is a rival?

    <h4>Chapter 39 She is a rival?</h4>

    Lei Zhao and Yan Mei turned when they heard the voice.

    "Miss Tang," Lei Zhao replied curtly.

    Tang Wei looked at Yan Mei and furrowed her brows. Even as a woman, she had to admit, Yan Mei is one of the most beautiful women she has ever seen. Her indifferent and cold temperament added a special touch to her.

    "Brother Zhao, this is¡ª" Tang Wei asked.

    "My wife. I thought Miss Tang already knew."

    Tang Wei dug her nails in her palm when she heard him.

    "Wifey, let''s go."

    Yan Mei nodded as she turned to look at the woman. She can see the hate in her eyes. An amused glint passed through her eyes.

    ''She likes Lei Zhao?''

    "Miss Tang, we have to leave first since my wife is hungry."

    Lei Zho nodded slightly and entered the restaurant with Yan Mei. Tang Wei looked at their backs, and her eyes were slightly reddish. She had long heard that Lei Zhao had gotten married but she didn''t believe it.

    How can he get married to someone else!? They have known each other for years but he still calls her Miss Tang. First, it was that bitch Yun Zhou and now this woman. Does he like these types of girls?

    Lei Zhao pushed a chair for Yan Mei and she smiled at him, taking her seat. The waiters came to take their orders the moment they got settled. The restaurant was a small restaurant that had a homely feel to it.

    "Lei Zhao," she called out his name and looked at him with a "you-better-tell-me-who-that-woman-was" look.

    Lei Zhao smirked and cleared his throat.

    "Wifey."

    Yan Mei lifted a leg over her thigh, leaning against her chair with her hands crossed against her chest.

    "So, who was that? If I don''t know better, I would say she is a rival?"

    Lei Zhao took a deep breath, grinning.

    "Are you jealous, Wifey? I won''t talk to other women."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes and looked around the restaurant.

    "She is Tang Wei. She is not really important¡­ just my aunt''s adopted child. She saved my cousin Li Wei when they were kids, so his family adopted her. Don''t care about her."

    Yan Mei inwardly sighed in relief. She doesn''t know why, but the mere thought that woman might be close to Lei Zhao irritated her.

    "Oh," she muttered, making Lei Zhao chuckled slightly at her.

    "Wifey, you''re cute."

    Yan Mei flushed, trying topose herself. The waiter brought the food and Yan Mei ignored Lei Zhao as she devoured her food. Lei Zhao watched her with slight amusement. He loved watching her eat. She looked different from her usual aloof self when she is eating.

    She was like any typical foodie, too, engrossed in her food while forgetting where she is. Lei Zhao lowered his head, returning to his own dishes. He picked the braised pork on his te and ced it on her te. Yan Mei looked at him stunned. Lei Zhao smiled softly at her with a spoilt look on his face. Yan Mei''s heart skipped her beat when she saw his eyes filled with love.

    "So, what does your family do? Your parents don''t seem like ordinary people," Yan Mei asked as she tried to hide her difort.

    "Yeah, my mother is a famous scientist but she is really low key and my father is the CEO of Thorn Inc., the leading oilpany in the country. My brother was also had multiplepanies in the states."

    Yan Mei was slightly stunned when she heard him. His family is that rich? Wait, the Lei family!

    The Lei family is one of the top three families in city S. When she arrived, she did some investigations about the power in this country. But she thought the Lei family wasn''t a threat to her, so she just nced at a little information and didn''t pay attention.

    "I thought you did a background check on me before agreeing to marry me."

    Yan Mei shook her head and said, "I trust my grandfather. I know he did, and he is friends with your old man Lei too."

    Lei Zhao nodded.

    "What do you mean your brother had multiplespanies in the states? What happened to thepanies?"

    "I took over," Lei Zhao said with a smile, but the smile didn''t reach his eyes though. Yan Mei nodded.

    "What about him, where is he?"

    "He is¡­"

    Lei Zhao couldn''t finish his words as a kid who was running around ran into their table. The small bowl containing soup on their table tilted and was about to fall down. Fortunately, Yan Mei''s eyes were faster. She quickly pushed the kid, and the soup fell on the floor. A few drops of it spilled on the child''s hand.

    Due to the fright, the kid cried out aloud which rmed the waiter and his mother. The mother hurriedly picked up the child and saw the blisters on his hand. She angrily turned to Yan Mei.

    "How can you push my child like that! What if he had gotten hurt?"

    Yan Mei looked coldly at the woman and said indifferently.

    "If I hadn''t pushed away your son, believe it or not, the soup would have spilled on him. It''s not my fault you''re a reckless and a bad mother who left her son to run around in a restaurant."

    "Who are you calling a bad and reckless mother," the woman screeched in anger.

    "You, of course. Do you see any clown apart from you here?"

    A sly grin appeared on Yan Mei''s face. She really hated these kinds of women who didn''t pay attention to their kids and focus on looking good in high society.

    Lei Zhao looked at his wife and shook his head helplessly. Every time she has that look on her face, he knew someone was about to get in trouble.

    "You shameless woman! You dare to call me a clown? Do you know who I am?"

    Yan Mei snorted and sipped her wine. Looking at the unfazed look on her face, the woman felt her blood boiling. Ever since she became the mistress of the Zhao family and gave birth to a son, everyone in the high society respected her and some tried to tter her with pleasant words so she thought she was already the hostess of the Zhao family.

    "If you don''t kneel and apologize to me while I am in a good mood, don''t think about leaving this ce," the woman said as she gave her child to the woman she was eating with.

    Yan Mei stood up when she heard her and turned to look at the woman.

    "What did you say," Yan Mei asked with a sinister smile on her face.

    She really hated being threatened, and she thought she must teach this woman a lesson for his son. If she hadn''t pushed the kid away, he will probably be covered in burns now due to his mother''s carelessness.

    The woman couldn''t help but shiver when she saw the look in Yan Mei''s eyes. How can a woman have such a bloodthirsty look in her eyes and cold aura?

    Thinking she can''t lose her face in public, the woman lifted her high-heeled feet and kicked at Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei took one step away from her and stepped to her left. Still having that sinister look on her face, she said, "You missed. Now my turn."

    The woman''s face became horrified. Her instinct told her this woman wasn''t an ordinary woman. Suddenly she had a feeling of impending doom. Unfortunately, it was toote.

    Before she could react, Yan Mei raised her leg high and kick her brutally, directed at her knee cap. Yan Mei knew kicking someone in the knee will hurt like hell and possibly cause a lot of damage.

    The woman fell, withering in pain.

    "Arghhhh!"

    The woman was seen wailing in pain.

    "Wifey, is your leg okay," Lei Zhao asked worriedly with a look of concern on her face. Yan Mei nodded her hand.

    "It''s just dirty. Let''s go so I can take a bath."

    Lei Zhao nodded and smiled. "Next time, allow me to deal with these petty works, okay?"

    Yan Mei smiled and shook her head. The people in the restaurant look at the couple''s interaction and couldn''t help but cast a sorry look at the woman on the floor.

    The woman gritted her teeth and tears blurred her eyes.

    Lei Zhao ced money on their table and took Yan Mei''s hand as they turned and walked out of the restaurant. Just as they were about to exit, Lei Zhao suddenly hugged Yan Mei from behind.

    Yan Mei frowned and turned around to look at him the moment he pulled away. Lei Zhao smiled at her, but Yan Mei saw his brows furrowed.

    Looking past his shoulder, she saw the look of shock and panic on the woman''s face and suddenly realized what has happened.

    "Lei Zhao!"

    Yan Mei screamed in shock.

 Chapter 40 As long as you wake up

    <h4>Chapter 40 As long as you wake up</h4>

    "It''s okay." Lei Zhao said as he smiled at her.

    Yan Mei looked at the blood oozing from Lei Zhao''s head and her eyes be red. Her temperament became gloomy and scary. The woman subconsciously took a step back when she saw Yan Mei.

    She wanted to hit Yan Mei in the head with a chair because she wanted to cause damage, she used a lot of strength.

    She never thought the guy will see and protect her.

    "Are you okay? Do you have a headache? Is your vision blurry?" Yan Mei asked worriedly as she held his hand. Lei Zhao chuckled humorlessly as he stared at her.

    "Wifey, I''m fine. Don''t worry." Lei Zhao lied since he didn''t want to worry her. He was far from fine. It seems he really received a hard blow to his head. If it had been Yan Mei he was afraid of the pain she would have suffered.

    Yan Mei stared murderously at the woman with a sinister smirk on her face. She knew Lei Zhao needed to go to the hospital quickly to check his injury since head injuries were quite serious. Also, she didn''t want anyone to see her murderous side.

    As long as this woman is in City S, she will find her and when she does, she will make her pay for every single drop of blood-shedding on Lei Zhao''s shirt.

    The woman looked at the murderous glint in Yan Mei''s eyes and swallowed. She knew this woman will never let her go. She quickly took her child and left the restaurant with the woman she came to eat with.

    Lei Zhao suddenly furrowed his brows in pain. He felt like someone was injecting thousands of needles in his head. His vision became blurry, he felt lightheaded and seemed to be drifting in and out of consciousness.

    He knew he couldn''t lose consciousness now or his wife will get worried. He tried to fight the pain and dizziness but his fight was futile. All Lei Zhao remembers is the worried and fear look in his wife''s eyes as he fell into oblivion.

    "Lei Zhao!!!!!!!!"

    *********

    Moody. Depressed. Upset. Self-me. That''s exactly how Yan Mei has been feeling for the past two days. She has been waiting eagerly for Lei Zhao to wake up. After she brought him to the hospital, a series of tests were carried.

    Fortunately, he had just lost arge amount of blood and had a slight mild concussion.The doctor said he will wake up soon but he hadn''t.

    The doctors were afraid since concussion patients aren''t supposed to sleep. They couldn''t exin why he was not waking up. Yan Mei had gone berserk when she heard the doctors. She had created havoc in the hospital until Lei Zhao''s parents came and calmed her down.

    Lei Zhao had a feverst night and Yan Mei thought she was going to lose him. She never thought she has grown ustomed to him this past month. Her mind was basically flooded with weird emotions all-day driving her crazy that she ended up having a headache. The fact that she has barely slept these past two days made everything worse.

    She held Lei Zhao''s hand and rubbed her temple. Lei Xiao Tong saw her daughter-inw''s pale face and she was a little worried. She has barely eaten or slept these past two days. She stepped forward andforted her.

    "Xiaomei, this is not your fault. Lei Zhao is a little different from other people when he gets injured or sick ever since he was a kid. I had inhaled a chemical when I was pregnant with him, so he is a little special. Don''t worry he will get better."

    Yan Mei nodded and her eyes fell on the handsome, pale man and her heart hurt. Lei Zhao will be okay. If he doesn''t wake up today, she will personally call a doctor.

    "Mom, you go and rest. When he wakes up, I will call you."

    Mr. Lei shook his head at his wife when she tried to argue with Yan Mei. Lei Xiao Tong sighed and patted Yan Mei''s shoulder.

    "Alright, you take care of yourself too or Lei Zhao will not be happy when he wakes up."

    Yan Mei forced her smile and nodded.

    Once they left the ward, Yan Mei''s became red.

    ''Lei Zhao you must wake up as soon as possible. Didn''t you say you love me? As long as you wake up, I will not scold you again or tease you again. Even though I don''t want to admit it, I think I''m falling in love with you. As long as you wake up, I will tell you how I feel about you.''

    The next day, the bright sun scattered through the window slits. Lei Zhao wanted to open his eyes but the heart-crushing pain from his head made him crease his brows.

    He slowly opened his eyes and looked strangely at the source of the sound. Due to the beeping sound, the smell of disinfectants, and snow-white walls, he knew he was at the hospital. He looked at the cabs on the window and saw fruits, thermos sks, and a bottle of water.

    Yan Mei who was a light sleeper opened her eyes when she heard the slight movement.

    Yan Mei leaned over with tears in her eyes, "You are finally awake!"

    Lei Zhao was puzzled. Why would his wife be crying? Just because he was unconscious? Does this mean she finally has feelings for him? Lei Zhao was excited, he felt being hit by the woman wasn''t a bad thing.

    Yan Mei looked at Lei Zhao who was staring at her in a daze and her eyes widened, a rare fear shed in her eyes. ''Did he lose his memory?''

    "Lei Zhao, are you okay? Does your hurt your head? Should I call the doctor? Do-you know-who-I am?" Yan Mei asked worriedly.

    Lei Zhao just stared at his wife''s face quietly. He held her hand and forced a smile on his pale face.

    "Wifey¡­" He called her hoarsely.

    "I''m here¡­.right here." Yan Mei immediately rang the bell, to call the doctor and nurse.

    After a series, of tests, the doctors were quite shocked to learn that he was okay. They let him stay for a couple of days to monitor anything out of the ordinary.

    After the tests, Yan Mei picked up the porridge Lei Xiao Tong sent just a few minutes ago. Lei Zhao stared at her and couldn''t bear to look away. He felt distressed when he saw her bloodshot eyes and tears earlier. His deep eyes were filled with distress and love.

    Yan Mei poured the porridge in a bowl and came to sit at the edge of the bed. She took a spoon and fed it to his mouth. Lei Zhao took a few sips with a satisfactory smile on his face. Suddenly he leaned over.

    Yan Mei thought something was wrong. She was anxious in her heart.

    "What is wrong?"

    Lei Zhao suddenly lowered his head and blocked her lips. Yan Mei was startled by the pressure of his lips against her. Lei Zhao hungrily tasted the corners of her lips and drew in her lower lip between his teeth.

    The door was suddenly opened and Lei Xiao Tong and Mr. Lei saw this fiery scene. Looking at his son passionately kissing a girl.

    Lei Xiao Tong was stunned. She quickly took out her phone and snapped a photo. Lei Zhao suddenly pulled away from Yan Mei and looked at his mother.

    "Haha! You kids continue we wille backter." Lei Xiao Tong quickly rushed out of the room seeing her son''s gloomy face.

    Yan Mei blushed when she heard her mother-inw and red at Lei Zhao.

    "What?" Lei Zhao feigned innocent as he raised his brows. Yan Mei snorted and ignored him.

    "Ouch, wifey it hurts." Yan Mei turned to look at him and asked worriedly.

    "Where? Should I call the doctor?"

    Lei Zhao shook his head with a sly grin on his face. "Wifey, kiss me I will feel better!"

    Yan Mei realized she has been yed by him and roared angrily at him. "Lei Zhao, you shameless man!"

    "Haha"

    Lei Zhao heartilyughs sounded in the ward when he heard her.

 Chapter 41 Move on

    <h4>Chapter 41 Move on</h4>

    *shback*

    Feng Mei stood in front of the punching bag and looked at the man standing in front of her. The man whose eyes and nose she possessed had an evil smirk on his face. He was standing in front of her with his hands in his pocket. This man was no other than her biological father. He was tall, handsome, and had a shaped jawline.

    It seems the years had no effect on him, he looked like a thirty-year-old man even though he was clearly older. Feng Mei has always been mesmerized by how handsome and young her father looked. No wonder a rich heiress like her mother fell for him.

    They stared at each other, the atmosphere was a little awkward as tension in the room got higher.

    "Why am I here?" Feng Mei asked.

    Zheng Ren smirked as he looked at his daughter. He always remembers the woman he has never stopped loving anytime he sees his daughter. His little girl has been hurt by a man and anytime he sees his daughter locked in her room crying, his heart hurts. If it wasn''t for his daughter, he would have probably killed that guy a long time ago.

    "I thought we can practice since it has been a long time." Zheng Ren said with a soft smile on his face.

    "I don''t want to." Feng Mei said as she bypassed him and walked towards the exit.

    "I never knew my daughter was a coward." Zheng Ren said as heughed humorlessly.

    Feng Mei stopped for a second when she heard him, but she ignored him and continued striding towards the exit.

    "Your mother, would be ashamed of you!" Zhen Ren''s voice echoed in the room. Yan Mei stopped and clenched her fist.

    "You''re always locked up in your room, crying yourself to sleep. Do you think crying will solve anything?"

    Zheng Ren snorted as he stared at his daughter. He knew what he was doing was cruel but it was the only way he could think off. His eyes were filled with pain, but he blinked it away as he continued.

    "You couldn''t protect the people you loved, whose fault is that huh? You couldn''t even keep a man!"

    Feng Mei''s whole body trembled as his words rang in her ears. ''You couldn''t even keep a man''

    "You''re really pathetic Feng Mei, you''re one of the most powerful people in this whole country but you''re now a weak, crybaby who is always drowning in her sorrow. Are you the only person who has been hurt? You triedmitting suicidest week and this is your third attempt. Do you think your child would be proud of you?!"

    With the speed of lightning, Feng Mei came to stand in front of her father, grabbed him by the neck and threw him against the wall.

    "Bang!".

    The sound of an object hitting the wall sounded in the room.

    Zheng Ren groaned as he stood up. He wiped the blood from his mouth and looked at his hands stained with blood and smirked. He looked at his daughter whose eyes were glistening with bloodthirsty killing intent and grinned.

    "It wasn''t hard right?. I get it, you have been wounded, hurt and you feel the world isn''t fair but you''re right, princess. The world isn''t fair so instead of always crying in that room why don''t you channel that hate and make yourself better and stronger! People should quiver in fear when they know whose daughter you''re. You''re not just anybody. You''re my daughter!" Zheng Ren angrily roared

    "Only by being stronger and better can you protect yourself and the people you love. You have been too soft-hearted and kind that''s why people can hurt you. I have trained you for years, you''re the heiress to this empire. What will people say when they see you always crying in your room! Do you think the enemies will let you go now that you''re at your weakest? How long are you going to keep on crying? It''s been a year now, move on!"

    Feng Mei looked at her father and saw the distress and helplessness in his eyes. She knew what he was saying was true. She blinked away her tears that were threatening to fall and looked away.

    She was truly a coward, she didn''t want to face reality and just wanted to disappear. But, she never stopped to think about the people who will suffer once she dies. Her father, who has always been there for her and her little cousin whom she has to protect.

    Zheng Ren came to stand in front of her in a blink of an eye and pulled her in his arms. Yan Mei shoulders slumped in defeat as she cried. Zheng Ren felt distressed as his daughter''s tears stained his shirt.

    "I''m sorry. I was being selfish." He said distressingly as he patted her shoulders.

    Feng Mei shook her head as she pulled away from her father.

    "You''re right, crying wouldn''t solve anything." Feng Mei said as she wiped her tears.

    "I would be better, stronger and if anybody hurts the person I love, I will make the person suffer a fate worst than death!" Feng Mei said as she dug her nails in her palm.

    Zheng Ren smiled as he kissed her forehead. "Remember, my daughter can do anything she wants. I will clean the mess afterward and no one can say anything." Feng Mei nodded as she forced a smile

    *present*

    "Please let me go." A woman whispered as she hyperventtes, tears constantly running down her eye.

    This woman was the same person who had hit Lei Zhaost time.

    "Should I?" Yan Mei questioned and chuckled evilly.

    "P-please." The woman pleaded as she stared at Yan Mei, fear written all over her face.

    Yan Mei smiled darkly and looked at her nails.

    "Do you know what you did? You hurt someone you shouldn''t have." Yan Mei said nkly as she looked up at the woman.

    "Please, I''m sorry. I didn-" the woman swallowed her words when Yan Mei''s cold eyes peered at her.

    Yan Mei tugged her tongue at the corner of her cheek and looked at the woman with no emotions in her eyes.

    "Do you want to know how I found you?" The woman bit her lips as she stared at Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei chuckled, "when you sent someone to kill me, you never thought I will find you right?"

    The woman''s eyes widened in fear and she took a step back.

    "How did you-".

    "Find out?" Yan Mei interrupted her as she stood up from the chair she was sitting on.

    She blew a whistle and a man came inside.

    The woman looked at the man who just came in and her lips started trembling. She doesn''t know why but she had a bad feeling in the depth of her stomach.

 Chapter 42 Assassination

    <h4>Chapter 42 Assassination</h4>

    *A few hours ago*

    Yan Mei looked at Lei Zhao as he slept underneath his covers. The white pillows and white hospital suit brought out his features making him look gentle and pure. The wounds on his head had been covered with bandages. Brushing a hand over his forehead, Yan Mei ced a soft kiss on his forehead.

    She was damn tired, she hasn''t slept properly for the past two days and the fear of losing Lei Zhao had taken a toll on her mentally. Now that he is okay, she wants to take a bath to release all the stress she has gone through.

    Yan Mei stared at Lei Zhao for a couple of minutes and smiled softly. He had fallen asleep while they were arguing about who was going to take revenge on the person who had hit him.. Yan Mei knew he was tired and probably feeling sleepy when they were arguing but he didn''t want to sleep. He imed he wanted to spend time because he missed her while he was unconscious.

    "Stupid." Yan Mei whispered as she shook her head helplessly. She looked at her watch and saw it waste. She decided to quickly go home to take a bath andes back before Lei Zhao wakes up.

    ****

    Yan Mei rubbed her shoulders as she removed her shoes and walked towards the bedroom. She started a bath before she stripped out of her clothes. Once the tub was filled, Yan Mei got into the scorching hot water. Her tense muscles rxed as she lowered herself further inside. She leaned her head against the edge of the rail, closed her eye, and let out a deep breath.

    The scene of Lei Zhao passing out still vivid in her mind. Fortunately, nothing bad happened. Shethered her hair with shampoo enjoying thevender scent. Her shoulders rxed and felt the hot water soothe her muscles.

    Twenty minutester, she dried herself with a towel and walked towards the bedroom. Yan Mei tied her hair into a messy bun and put on a hoodie and sweatpants. She frowned when she heard a loud thud outside the door.

    The door of the bedroom was kicked in revealing a man with an angry look with a gun. When he entered he saw Yan Mei sitting on the bed with a bored look on her face.

    The men frowned when he saw her sittingzily on the bed. He looked at her with a puzzled look on his face. Shouldn''t she be afraid and scream? This woman was really interesting.

    "Hmm. I wasn''t really expecting anybody to have the guts to send someone to kill me." Yan Mei saidzily as her eyes glittered with wickedness.

    The man frowned when she nced at him with no sense of surprise.

    "Stand up, turn around and ce your hands on your head." The man ordered her with a re which made her smirk grow wider in amusement.

    "And if I don''t?" Yan Mei questioned sarcastically, a smirk evident on her lips.

    "Shut up and turn around!" The man was clearly annoyed. He was a known ruthless assassin who cause people to shiver just by the mere sight of him. But this woman hadpletely disregard him the moment he entered this door. He was really angry at her for treating him like that.

    Women are supposed to fear men and pleased them, the man thought as he admired her beauty. Her hair was tied in a messy bun with some curls falling on her face.

    "Okay, at least tell me who wants to kill me. I deserve to know the person who wants me dead before I die right?" Yan Mei batted her eyshes at him with a seductive smile on his face.

    The man walked closer to her. An amused grin on his face. This woman was really alluring too bad he has to kill her. She didn''t even look frightened at the thought that he can kill her right here.

    "I will tell you if you get on your knees and give me a good head. I might even leave you a full body."

    Yan Mei smiled yfully when she heard him. She was really mad right now.

    "You shouldn''t have said, now I''m mad." Yan Mei tutted with a smirk.

    "Thest man who told me such filthy words, had his tongue cut while he was still alive."

    Before the man couldprehend what she just said, a needle flew in his direction and pricked his neck."

    The man felt his body paralyzed the moment the needle hit him. His eyes widened in fear as he fell onto his knees. He tried to fix his blurred vision as he spoke.

    "You..no it can''t be. You can''t be her!" There is only one person known for her legendary usage of the Chinese needle to kill her enemies in just one stroke. If the man knew Yan Mei was the one, he wouldn''t have taken this job! The man thought bitterly before he died.

    Yan Mei snorted when she saw the fear in the man''s eyes before he died. She really hates men who don''t value women.

    Yan Mei picked up her phone and dialed a number.

    "Hello?" A man said huskily on the other end of the phone. He seemed to be doing vigorous work when Yan Mei called.

    Yan Mei : I have a dead body in my room. Send someone to clean it up.

    The man: ¡­..

    Yan Mei: Also, I want to know who sent him in the next thirty minutes.

    Yan Mei hung up the call and sighed.

    The man looked at his phone in a daze for a few minutes before he realized what had just happened. He hurriedly got up from the woman who was buried underneath him and run a frustrated hand through his hair.

    "Where are you going?" The woman pouted as she asked. The man ignored her as he hurriedly got dressed and left the room.

    He bitterly cursed at the person who made his boss interrupted him in the middle of such an important thing.

    He wouldn''t let the person go if he finds him or her.

    *****

    "Please let me go." A woman whispered as she hyperventted, tears constantly running down her eye.

    This woman was the same person who had hit Lei Zhaost time.

    "Should I?" Yan questioned and chuckled evilly.

    "P-please." The woman pleaded as she stared at Yan Mei, fear written all over her face.

    Yan Mei smiled darkly and looked at her nails.

    "Do you know what you did? You hurt someone you shouldn''t have." Yan Mei said nkly as she looked up at the woman.

    "Please, I''m sorry. I didn-" the woman swallowed her words when Yan Mei''s cold eyes peered at her.

    Yan Mei tugged her tongue at the corner of her cheeks and looked at the woman with no emotions in her eyes.

    "Do you want to know how I found you?" The woman bit her lips as she stared at Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei chuckled, "when you sent someone to kill me, you never thought I will find you right?"

    The woman''s eyes widened in fear and she took a step back.

    "How did you-".

    "Find out?" Yan Mei interrupted her as she stood up from the chair she was sitting on.

    She blew a whistle and a man came inside.

    The woman looked at the man who just came in and her lips started trembling. She doesn''t know why but she had a bad feeling in the depth of her stomach.

    . ........To be continued .

 Chapter 43 Only for you.

    <h4>Chapter 43 Only for you.</h4>

    The man came in and tossed something in front of the woman.

    In front of herid the killer''s head and body parts. The woman felt her whole body shut down at the sight of dead body parts. Her knees gave out and she shrieked out in fear and panic.

    "Arrghh¡­take this away-from me."

    She started crawling away, crying while she looked at the Yan Mei infront of her. How can a woman be this heartless! Yan Mei''s eyes were empty as she looked at the woman with no sign of remorse.

    "You thought I would never find out you sent him? Or you thought he would kill me?"

    Yan Mei questioned darkly.

    "You wanted to get rid of me first because you knew I will never let you go." Yan Mei chuckled in a psychotic way.

    "You''re right though, I would have found you and given you a painless death but now I have changed my mind."

    The woman suddenly found it very hard to breathe. She was terrified as she looked at Yan Mei.

    "Death is too cheap for you." Yan Mei pulled her hands in her pocket and said baldly.

    Yan Mei strode towards her slowly and squatted in front of the woman.

    "I want to break you mentally and physically. You will pay for every single drop of blood that shed on my husband''s shirt. I''m going to let you beg for death and I would enjoy every moment of it. I heard a psychiatric hospital is a nice ce. Would you like to visit our dear friends?"

    The woman shook her head as her lips tremble.

    No..p-please don''t-don''t send me there. The woman got on her knees as she begged Yan Mei.

    The psychiatric hospital was full of psychopaths and she didn''t want to go there. The woman cried so much she thought she would pass out.

    "The Zhou family would not let you go if something happens to me!".

    Yan Mei stood up and said calmly, "Don''t you want to know how we found so easily and quickly?"

    Yan Mei grinned, "Mr. Zhou found out his son is actually not his but the gardener''s son. You have been sleeping with his gardener all this while."

    The woman stiffened when she heard Yan Mei.

    "You¡­you''re lying!"

    The woman clenched her fist as she red at Yan Mei.

    "Am I? You also killed his wife and has been stealing information and selling them to his rivals."

    The woman shook her head as fear and hopelessness overwhelmed her. No one was going to save her now. She knows Mr. Zhou would probably kill the gardener. The gardener was her the man she truly loved, they nned everything to take control of the Zhou family but because of this woman, their years of hard work has been in vain. The thought of her lover dying crushed her. She screamed in pure agony.

    "Aaahh!!! You..are a devil! "

    Yan Meiughed manically, "if I''m the devil, then you must be one of my agents. You know the bad things you have done. Deep down you know you''re not better than me."

    Yan Mei turned and looked at the man standing beside her, "You know what to do. Don''t forget to send Mr. Zhou a copy after you''re done with her. "

    The man nodded and looked pitifully at the woman who was crying on the floor. He has seen how cruel physical and mental torture is. It has brought great men down. First they will use all kinds of torturing machines on you and then use your biggest fear to break you donepletely through hypnosis. You will first hallucinate then you will start hurting yourself.

    He sighed and approached the woman, "no don''te near me, you monster!".

    The woman''s pleading fell on deaf ears as she was instantly hauled up and thrown over the mean''s shoulder.

    ******Lei Zhao woke up by the sunlight entering through the windows. Turning his face, he saw Yan Mei sleeping by his side. She was sitting on a chair as sheid her head on the side of his bed. Lei Zhao frowned by the position she was sleeping at. He knew her back will hurt by the end of the day.

    "Wifey." Lei Zhao whispered.

    Yan Mei didn''t move.

    "Wifey!." Lei Zhao screamed.

    Yan Mei woke up and rubbed her sleepy eyes.

    "Yeah, it there anything wrong?" Yan Mei asked softly as she looked up at Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao shook his head, "I was just trying to wake you up."

    Yan Mei sighed, "Why did you wake me up? I was having a nice dream."

    Lei Zhao raised his brows. "Dream about what?"

    Yan Mei caressed her stiff neck, "about a boy."

    Lei Zhao nodded, "About a boy huh?"

    Different thoughts began to fill Lei Zhao''s mind when he heard her. Was the boy someone from her past?

    "Yes a really cute boy." Yan Mei said with an expressionless face.

    Yan Mei looked at Lei Zhao''s face which was gloomy and grinned.

    "Is he handsome?" Lei Zhao asked.

    "Yes very handsome. Do you want to know his name?"

    Lei Zhao shook his head andid back on his bed. Clearly he was in a bad mood.

    "it''s Niu Niu! I miss that little guy." Yan Mei said with a smile on her face.

    "Your husband is right here but you''re thinking about another man. Wifey, you''re really cruel."

    Yan Mei chuckled, "you''re so childish. How can you be jealous of a kid?"

    Lei Zhao snorted and ignored her.

    Sighing, Yan Mei stood up and gently ced a kiss on Lei Zhao''s cheeks.

    Lei Zhao smirked and held her hand. "Wifey, I''m hungry."

    Yan Mei looked at the wall clock and realized it was already eight am. She didn''t think she will sleep in thiste. Last night when she came back, Lei Zhao was peacefully sleeping. She decided to tell him what happened once he wakes up.

    "What do you want to eat?" Lei Zhao smiled.

    "You." Yan Mei blushed when she heard him.

    "Rogue!" Lei Zhaoughed

    "Yeah, I''m a rogue only for you, wifey." Lei Zhao said as he winked at her.

    ,

 Chapter 44 He is hers.

    <h4>Chapter 44 He is hers.</h4>

    Yan Mei opened her eyes and was greeted by Lei Zhao''s closed ones. She smiled at his sleeping face. She is always mesmerized by how pure and gentle he looks anytime he is asleep. She missed sleeping on his chest while listening to his heartbeat.

    This sleep is probably the most stable sleep she has had in days. She doesn''t have to be afraid that he will leave her like everybody else or worry about his condition. Fortunately, the doctor said nothing was wrong with him.

    He is right here beside her. Yan Mei''s eyes soften.

    He is hers. She gave him a small kiss on the cheeks and got up slowly and carefully to not wake him up.

    After she finished taking a bath, she decided to surprise Lei Zhao. After all, it''s been three days since he got back from the hospital and she still hasn''t gotten the chance to thank him.

    Lei Zhao woke up feeling the sunlight hitting his face. He groaned as he rolled over and sat up. He looked around the room and realized Yan Mei wasn''t around. He hadn''t realized how he has gotten used to sleeping on the same bed with her. He was disappointed to not have woken up with her by his side, giving her a good morning kiss.

    He got up, took a shower, and came downstairs. Yan Mei turned around when she heard footsteps behind her.

    Lei Zhao came to sight and she almost drooled at the sight of him. Why didn''t she notice that he was this handsome? She knew he was handsome but she really didn''t pay attention to his looks.

    Even with his bed rumpled hair, he looked gorgeous. He looked at her with a confused expression.

    "What are you doing?" He asked.

    "I wanted to surprise you with breakfast in bed to thank you, but you spoiled it." She exined.

    ''Was she blushing?'' Lei Zhao thought with a smug grin.

    Yan Mei cleared her throat and bit her lips embarrassingly.

    "But it kind of turned out awful."

    Lei Zhao looked at her and he an inexplicably urge to pinch her cheeks. She looked so cute.

    He looked at the te of deformed eggs and the burnt toasted bread with a steaming cup of tea and didn''t know whether he should cry orugh.

    "Thank you wifey." "Lei Zhao pecked her lips and sat down on the white chair in front of the kitchen counter. He grabbed a fork, took a piece, and ced it in his mouth. He chewed slowly.

    "How is it?" Lei Zhao nodded stiffly and raised his thumb at her as he tried to swallow the egg.

    He doesn''t know if she poured all the salt or eggshells in the egg while mixing. This is the most difficult food he has ever eaten. But thinking it is the first food prepared by his wife and she did it to please him he decided to swallow it and pretend it''s good not to hurt her feelings.

    "Really?" Yan Mei asked unconvincedly as she raised her brows. She picked a fork and took a piece and ced it in her mouth. She widened her eyes and spluttered out the egg.

    She hurriedly drunk coffee to clean the bad taste from her mouth.

    "How can you eat this!" Yan Mei shouted at him and took the te away from him.

    "Because it''s the first food you''ve cook for me, and I know you hate cooking but you did it for me. I don''t care how it tastes, as long as it was prepared by you."

    Yan Mei let out a sigh, "Stupid, so if I prepare poison will you drink it too?"

    Lei Zhao nodded. "Anything my wifey gives me, I will eat. No matter what my wifey tells me to do I will do it."

    Yan Mei stared at him. A sudden surge of emotions overwhelmed her. It made her weary, defensive and vulnerable.

    This guy, what is he doing to her. Every day he surprises her, melting her iced heart.

    Lei Zhao stared at her, seeing theplicated emotions in her eyes, his heart skipped a heart. Thest thing he thought he was going to be was a wife ve.

    But he has never felt soplete in his life. He had a wife and he couldn''t be happier. His wife was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. Everything about her drives him crazy. The way she blushes, the way she bit her lips or tucks her tongue in her cheeks when she is thinking about something the little things she does makes him love her more.

    She was a puzzle that was missing a few pieces, but he didn''t mind being her missing pieces. He wanted to have a future with this woman, he wanted to have kids, a family with her. He watched as she furrowed her brows. Why did she looked indecisive? Liking having a debate with herself.

    Yan Mei grabbed his face, "What are you doing to me Lei Zhao?"

    Panic filled her chest, tightening her it. She felt suffocated.

    "What?" Lei Zhao asked.

    "I''m supposed to be in control, I can''t fall in love again."

    His hands held her face making her feel exposed and vulnerable to his gaze.

    "Why?" Yan Mei looked away.

    "Because love is a scam!" Yan Mei shouted.

    Lei Zhao opened his mouth and closed it again.

    They stared at each other, both of them lost in their own thoughts.

    Lei Zhao removed his hands from her face. "Is that why, you don''t want to give me a chance? Because some jerk hurt you?"

    Lei Zhao said sadly, rubbing his brows.

    "When are you going to see that I''m not him. I love you and I would rather hurt myself then I hurt you!

    Yan Mei jaw dropped, her heartbeat rapidly as she stared at him. His face was was, contorted with sadness and frustration as he red at her and said, "stop being a coward and embrace what you feel."

    His eyes soften and in a painful whisper he asked, "Tell me you feel something for me, just a little please."

    Lei Zhao always thought people who beg other people to love them were crazy or stupid. He never thought one day he will be begging someone to love him too. Ignorance was truly bliss.

    ''I do, stupid!'' Yan Mei thought.

    She pulled the cor of his shirt and kissed him. She was falling deeply in love with him and she hated that feeling. She was afraid of saying those three words. Instead of telling him what she feels for him she would rather show it.

 Chapter 45 Call me husband

    <h4>Chapter 45 Call me husband</h4>

    mature content ahead, read at your own risk.

    Yan Mei pulled his hair deepening the kiss, their tongue fought for dominance. Lei Zhao ced her on the counter and his hands crawled up waist beneath her dress.

    His cold hands brushed against her nipples making them hard. He trailed kisses down her neck while leaving hickeys.

    Yan Mei bit out a moan when he pinched her nipple, her hands dug into his disheveled hair, tugging him closer as she pulled him for an intense kiss. They broke off catching their breath.

    Lei Zhao eagerly took off her dress and pulled her down from the counter. He turned her around and trailed a finger along her spine.

    Yan Mei shivered. Bending her over the counter, he rubbed her firm butt. His cock pulsed. He wanted to punish her because she makes him lose control, makes him frustrated.

    His fingers caressed ass and before Yan Mei realize what he was doing he swung down his hands with a sharp p across her ass.

    "Lei Zhao!!!!" Yan Mei cried out. The sting lingered as his hand went back caressing her ass.

    "What are you doing.?" Yan Mei gritted her teeth.

    "I''m spanking you because you fvcking drives me crazy! I''m spanking you because you need to wake up. I can''t be the only one fighting for this rtionship." He growled.

    "Whack." Yan Mei gasped.

    "I''m spanking you because I love you!."

    "Smack, smack, smack." She flinched when he rubbed a gentle hand over the sensitive area he just spanked.

    Yan Mei was furious, or was she? She didn''t know how to feel about him spanking her. She didn''t hate it there was something about it that turned her on. The fact that she was bent on a kitchen counter while her husband punished her made her pussy wet.

    Lei Zhao ced two fingers on her slit teasing her as he dragged the fingers down, teasing her.

    "See how wet you are already." He said as he spread her folds apart. His fingers found her clit as he worked circr motion over it. She shuddered as she tried to stop her legs from shaking.

    She flinched when his fingers entered her. She pressed her back against him, a gasp forced out of her mouth as he slowly pumped two fingers in and out of her.

    "You act like you don''t feel anything for me, but your body always betrays you." Lei Zhao chuckled

    Yan Mei moaned, his fingers were driving her crazy. She bowed her head towards the counter as pleasure began to consume her.

    "Do you want to cum wifey?" he hissed sharply, as he increased the speed of his fingers inside her.

    "Aah please!. She moaned as she felt her muscle tense.

    "Lei Zhao please," she whispered as she felt her entire body trembled.

    Lei Zhao immediately withdrew his fingers and she almost cried in frustration.

    All of a sudden, she felt his dick inside her, he kept a slow pace just to torture.

    "Faster!" Yan Mei said breathing heavily. Lei Zhao ignored her as he stayed at the same speed driving her crazy.

    "You want me to fuck you harder, wifey?"

    "Yes..please." Lei Zhao groaned as he increased his speed.

    She bit her lips when started pounding into her faster, his balls hitting her ass. Every thrust caused her to lose focus, she cried out as he thrust into her harder and faster. Yan Mei knew he was angry.

    "Lei Zhao, yes..!" she chanted his name continuously, her head was in a daze.

    Lei Zhao chuckled as he kissed the nape of her neck. "Wifey, call me husband. I want to hear to call me."

    He whispered in a deep, sultry tone as he trailed a path of soft kisses on her back.

    "Call me."

    "No!" Yan Mei responded. Lei Zhao pped her ass.

    "Wrong answer." He grunted before mming hard into her. A loud moan escaped her lips.

    "You feel this, wifey?" Yan Mei threw her head back as he yed with her breast.

    "Only I can make you feel this good, now be good and call me husband!." Lei Zhao didn''t slow down as he mercilessly moved deep within her. Yan Mei thought he would tear her apart.

    "Husband!." She cried out in pleasure as she raised her ass to meet his thrusts that''s when she cum. Her body shook as she held the counter for dear life.

    Lei Zhao didn''t let her go he held her tightly as he kept pounding in her mercilessly till he was close to release. He froze for a moment as he groaned loudly as he cums inside her.

 Chapter 46 Friends

    <h4>Chapter 46 Friends</h4>

    "Yan Mei."

    "Yan Mei."

    "Yan Mei!" Yan Mei jumped in her seat as she was too distracted to hear Su Bei. Her mind has been upied with certain thoughts-thoughts about what Lei Zhao did to her in the morning.

    "Yes, Su Bei?" She answered.

    "Why are you so lost today?"

    "I was thinking about something."

    "Are you okay though or something is wrong with you and your husband?"

    "Yes I am, No we are fine." Yan Mei replied.

    Su Bei sat on the chair in front of her desk.

    "Alright, do you have some more things to do?" she asked as she leaned back on the chair and looked around the office.

    "Not really." She replied. Yan Mei heaved a sigh, she haspletely forgotten that she had asked her friend out for lunch.

    "Just give me a minute, I will just sign this document." Su Bei nodded as tapped her hands on the chair waiting for her.

    "I''m done." She murmured. She turned off herputer then grabbed her purse as she stood up.

    "What do you want to eat?" Yan Mei asked Su Bei as they walked out of the elevator.

    "You''re the boss." Su Bei said as she shrugged.

    Yan Mei nodded. They walked out of the building and across the street. Since this was amercial area, there were big stores and restaurants around. They entered a restaurant which was Su Bei''s favorite.

    They were ushered to a lounge and a waiter came to take their orders. A few minutester, they were eating.

    Su Bei looked at her with curiosity as she asked.

    "Yan Mei you know you can''t hide anything from me. So tell me what''s wrong."

    Yan Mei chugged down her water and sighed.

    "I think I''m falling in love with my husband."

    Su Bei chuckled when she heard her and shook her head helplessly. Her friend was a ruthlessly CEO but in terms of love, her EQ was probably zero.

    "This is a bad thing because¡­."

    Yan Mei looked around the lounge and bit her lips.

    "I''m afraid he will leave me once he knows my past." Su Bei nodded.

    "Does he love you?" Yan Mei stiffened and nodded.

    "Yeah, I can see it in his eyes and he tells me every day."

    Su Bei just stared at her friend, "Communication is very important in marriage Yan Mei, even though I haven''t met your husband I can see he treats you well. If you don''t tell him and he finds out himself it won''t end well. Don''t assume things for him, sit him down and tell him about your past, about why you''re too afraid to fall in love. If he can''t ept your past then when he isn''t worth it."

    Yan Mei sighed as she yed with her food, suddenly she lost her appetite.

    "For someone who has never been in a rtionship, you''re a good rtionship advisor." Yan Mei grumbled.

    Su Bei flushed, "Single people gives the best rtionship advice, haven''t you heard?"

    Yan Mei snorted.

    *** *

    Lei Zhao looked through his emails nkly and groaned. He was been trying to concentrate for hours now but be can''t. Was he too hard on his wife this morning? He knew he promised not to pressure her but the more he falls for her, the more selfish he bes.

    His phone ringing brought him out of the daze. Looking at the caller ID he raised his brows.

    ''Why was she calling him?''

    Picking up the call, "Hello"

    "At least pretend that you''re happy to get a call from me." Liu Yifei said sarcastically in the speaker.

    "What do you want?" Lei Zhao said baldly as he rolled his eyes.

    "Guess what! I''m in city S and I brought a surprise for you." Liu Yifei said as she ignored his grumpy mood.

    "Not interested." Lei Zhao replied.

    "Lei Zhao, stop being a jerk! I''m the only female friend you have. You can''t treat me like this."

    "We are not friend-"

    "Why, he said he won''te?" Lei Zhao stopped talking when he heard the voice in the speaker."

    Raising his brows he asked, "Is that Edward Wu speaking?"

    Liu Yifei humped and ignored his question.

    "Come to IKE''s restaurant, call me when you reach. I wille to pick you up." Liu Yifei hung up the call without waiting for his response.

    A few minutester Lei Zhao reached the restaurant, he called Liu Yifei who came downstairs to meet him. She smiled when she saw him. "I thought you wouldn''te."

    Lei Zhao squeezed his brows, " I didn''te because of you. Where is that brother of yours."

    Liu Yifei held his hands and smiled

    "Where is your wife? I thought you will bring her along." Lei Zhao cold face softened when she heard her. Liu Yifeiughed when she saw the love-struck look on his face.

    After Yan Mei finished eating with Su Bei she came downstairs, she saw a sexydy wearing a mid-thigh dress and she was standing with Lei Zhao?

    She squinted to make sure her eyes were not deceiving her. Unfortunately, it was really him. She could see the soft look on his face as he said something which caused the woman tough.

    Yan Mei turned around so he wouldn''t see her, biting her lips she heaved a sigh as she tried to hide the pain in her eyes. She felt someone was crushing her heart into pieces. Why was she feeling this way though?

    "Let''s go." Su Bei said . Yan Mei''s eyes darted to the entrance of the restaurant and they weren''t there anymore.

    "Alright," Yan Mei replied nonchntly.

    Lei Zhao didn''t see Yan Mei, following Liu Yifei they came to the VIP section of the restaurant. Entering the private room, Lei Zhao raised his brows.

    "Surprise!" Liu Yifei said excitedly as she made her way to sit down.

    Lei Zhao looked at his friends and his gloomy mood suddenly became better.

    "What are you guys doing here?"

    Henry Liu snickered, "Is that the way to greet friends you haven''t seen for years?"

    Lei Zhao red at him, "Stop being dramatic I saw you justst month." He said and ignored him, he turned to the rest and smiled.

    "You should have told me you''reing."

    Edward Wu shook his head, "we wanted to surprise you."

    Lei Zhao sat down and nodded.

    "We should hang out tonight, I will call the rest."

    Henry Liu said excitedly.

    "The rest? All of you are in city S?"

    Edward Wu nodded.

    They were all close friends, they just separated ways after they finished university. Since they were all busy managing their family businesses.

    " We heard you got married, invite sisterw-in too, we want to meet her."

    Lei Zhao was quite surprised, "It''s rare knowing you guys I thought you''ve probably already investigated her."

    Edward Wuughed when he heard him, "Oh we did but we didn''t find anything. You really hid her well."

    Lei Zhao shrugged, he didn''t tell his friends it wasn''t him who had hidden her information, but his mysterious wife.

 Chapter 47 Jealous

    <h4>Chapter 47 Jealous</h4>

    When Lei Zhao got home, he opened the door, changed into a pair of home slippers. When he turned on the light, he saw Yan Mei sitting on the sofa. A confused frown marred on his forehead.

    ''Why was she sitting in the dark?'' she had the clothes she wore to work this morning still on. Lei Zhao suddenly realized that she looked angry. Her lips were tightly pressed in a straight line and her deep eyes stared at him as if she was examining him.

    "Why are you sitting in the dark?" Lei Zhao asked softly as he strode towards her on the sofa.

    "Because I want to." Yan Mei coldly retorted.

    "Let''s eat outside tonight." Lei Zhao said ignoring her temper. He thought she was angry about what happened this morning.

    Yan Mei sneered, "Why the woman couldn''t apany you tonight?"

    Lei Zhao creased his brows, confused.

    ''Why does she sound like a nagging wife?''

    "What woman?" He asked confused.

    Yan Mei humped ignoring him. She doesn''t know why she was behaving like this. She hade home earlier today because she couldn''t get the sight of Lei Zhao looking softly at that woman from her mind.

    She didn''t even realize that she was sitting in the dark until Lei Zhao asked her, She had gotten lost in her thoughts all day. Seeing him with that woman made her realize that she can''t lose him.

    Lei Zhao sighed, "If you don''t tell me how I know the woman you''re talking about."

    "After my husband told me he loves me this morning, I saw him getting cozy with another woman this afternoon!" She huffed in exasperation. Her chest rose up and fell with each breath.

    Suddenly Lei Zhao realized that she saw him with Liu Yifei this afternoon and she is jealous. This means she loves him too right? Because why would she be jealous if she felt nothing for him. Lei Zhao smiled internally but his face was devoid of any emotions as he stared at her.

    Yan Mei stood up as she pointed at him angrily, "You fvcking liar, I can''t believe I nearly fell for your lies."

    "Yan Mei." Lei Zhao said in a serious tone.

    Yan Mei widened her eyes when she heard him mention her name. He has never called her Yan Mei before. At first, it was Miss Yan and after they got married he always called her wifey. Now because of an unknown woman he was calling her by her name. Even though her name sounded good in his mouth she couldn''t appreciate it now.

    Yan Mei took a step back. Lei Zhao saw her eyes gleamed with hurt then it was quickly reced by anger.

    "Don''t mention my name." Yan Mei said nonchntly. Her face was back to her usual indifference. Lei Zhao realized she was building her walls again.

    "Yan Mei." He growled his voiceced with frustration and anger. This woman will surely drive him crazy. One moment she was acting like a jealous wife and the next moment she was indifferent. Why is it so difficult to understand women!

    He grabbed her arm and pulled her towards him, she mmed her fist into his chest and tried to push him away but he held her hand immobilizing her.

    "Why are you throwing tantrums when you saw me with another woman? When you made it clear this morning that you can''t fall in love with me. Are you jealous?"

    Lei Zhao asked angrily tightening his hold on her hands.

    "Yes, I''m jealous damn you!"

    Yan Mei grabbed the cor of his shirt and violently smashed her lips against his. They kissed each other intensely both of them fighting for dominance. Yan Mei bit his lips as if she wanted to inflict pain on him for making her lose control.

    Lei Zhao groaned and picked her up to hold her closer she wrapped her legs around his waist without breaking the kiss. With her butt seated in his arms, Yan Mei held his head as their lips moved in a fiery motion, their tongues dancing with each other.

    After a few minutes, they pulled away to catch their breath. Lei Zhao grinned when he saw her swollen lips and flushed cheeks. He pressed his forehead against hers as they tried to catch their breath.

    Lei Zhao put her down gently. Yan Mei looked away avoiding his gaze. Lei Zhao held her chin and made her look at him.

    "The woman saw me with this afternoon is called Liu Yifei. We went to the same university and I''m friends with her brother. They came from city M and decided to give me a surprise visit. Also, she is already married. She is like an annoying sister I never had. Nothing special." Lei Zhao exined grinning mischievously.

    Yan Mei narrowed her eyes when she heard him. She looked at him embarrassed and blushed. She realized she has been overreacting.

    "Oh sorry." Yan Mei said softly. Lei Zhao burst into a fit ofughter. His wifey was really cute.

    "It''s okay, I would''ve reacted worse if I saw you with another man."

    Yan Mei widened her eyes when she heard him and nodded swiftly.

    "Do you still want to go with me to dinner?" Lei Zhao said as he tugged her hair behind her ears.

    Yan Mei nodded.

    "Yes."

 Chapter 48 Best thing

    <h4>Chapter 48 Best thing</h4>

    After eating at the restaurant, Lei Zhao decided that they should take a stroll on the streets for the food to digest. Yan Mei knew he wanted to take a walk with her but his poor excuse of wanting the food to digest made herugh out.

    Lei Zhao held her hands as they walked side by side. Both of them were lost in their thoughts as they walked quietly. But the atmosphere was quite harmonious. The wind blew Yan Mei''s hair. She felt happy that Lei Zhao was by her side.

    Lei Zhao threw Yan Mei a nce and saw her deep in thought with a soft smile tugged on her lips. He stroked her palm with his thumb.

    "Meeting you is the best thing that has happened to me, wifey." Lei Zhao said softly as he smiled at her.

    Yan Mei swallowed the lump in her throat. She has always believed she is a bad omen but he was telling her, she is the best thing that has happened to him. Yan Mei looked at her feet so he wouldn''t see how much his words affected her.

    Now she knew that this stupid man has finally won her heart.

    The wind was a little chilly so Yan Mei wrapped her around her to rub off the chill.

    "Here, wifey." Lei Zhao said cing his jacket on her shoulder. The mint she smelled on him the first time she met him drifted into her nose.

    "Won''t you feel cold?"

    A smug grin appeared on Lei Zhao''s face.

    "When I get cold, I can just hug you. You will keep me warm."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes at his cheeky reply.

    "I know you''ve your reasons why you don''t want to fell in love again." He said softly his voice had no anger, only understanding. Yan Mei was surprised.

    "I know I was being selfish this morning but the more I fall for you the more greedy I be for your love." His voice deepened as he said.

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh when she didn''t respond. "I''m sorry for forcing you and calling a coward."

    Yan Mei shook her head. "It''s okay."

    They became quiet for a few moments before Lei Zhao spoke.

    "At times I think you have been hurt badly, Wifey."

    Yan Mei bit her lips because what he was saying was the truth. She has been hurt badly that she is afraid to be happy again. She refused to let anyone in her heart because she didn''t want to get hurt or hurt the person. Yan Mei realized that she has even forgotten what it felt like to be loved and pampered by a man. Maybe she was a coward just like he said.

    But this man who was holding her hand made her feel how it feels to be loved and pampered, melting her iced heart.

    It scared her. She wasn''t supposed to feel those emotions again.

    "Actually the first time I met you was at the club, you were the hot stranger wearing a red suit in a club. I was attracted to you the moment I saw you. Then I saw your eyes filled with so much pain and a story to tell. So at that moment, I swore to make this woman happy. I wanted to see your smile. Not the professional ones you give to your clients or the evil smile you give when you''re about to let someone suffer. I want your real smile where your eyes brighten."

    Yan Mei froze when she heard him. She remembered going to a club a few months ago but she didn''t remember anything when she woke up. Her grandpa had let his securitye for her and cleared the security cameras. So she met him there?

    She heaved a sigh.

    "I''m afraid, you make me feel things I don''t want to."I-I"

    Lei Zhao chuckled slightly, "That makes the two of us." He said directly his eyes brewing with emotions.

    Yan Mei was shocked. The Lei Zhao she knew was shameless and lively but the man looking at her with such burning emotions in his eyes as if he can see through her made her quite speechless.

    "I''m not ready, Lei Zhao."

    He nodded, "That''s okay, you''re the missing piece in my life all these years. Now that I have found you I don''t mind waiting for you."

    "What do you even like about me!? I''m moody, rude, and always fighting with you. Aren''t you tired of me?"

    Lei Zhao let out a quietugh, "I also want to know the answer to that question. You have a bad personality, always driving me crazy and making me frustrated but I can''t let you go. My love for you grows every day. Maybe you''ve cast a spell on me. Yeah, it''s definitely a spell."

    Yan Mei chuckled when she heard him and shook her head helplessly. The shameless Lei Zhao was back.

    "You have to promise me something wifey."

    "What?" She asked.

    "Don''t make me wait for too long. Who knows maybe one day, you will turn and I might not be there."

    Yan Mei held her breath as her heart suddenly tightened. She stopped walking and turned to look at him. Her eyes met his and he smiled softly at her as if he didn''t say anything

    "Let''s sit down on that bench." Lei Zhao said as he walked her towards the bench.

    They sat down quietly as they looked at the stars in the sky.

    "My mom told me when people die they be stars and look after us from the skies." Yan Mei said after a few moments of silence.

    Lei Zhao turned to look at her and saw the nostalgic look on her face. He took her hand and squeezed it softly.

    Yan Mei turned to look at him and turned to look at the stars. There were four stars which had formed a circle.

    Yan Mei looked at the stars and suddenly remembered her best friend.

 Chapter 49 Cheating

    <h4>Chapter 49 Cheating</h4>

    *FLASHBACK*

    Feng Mei sat before the window watching as the rain outside grows. It''s was alreadyte but Wang Lu wasn''t back yet. She was beginning to get worried. Hearing the door open, Feng Mei ran to the entrance of the room.

    "Wang Lu?" Feng Mei called out, a hint of a smile in her tone. She stopped midway when she saw Wang Lu''s eyes which were gleaming with anger.

    "What happened?" She asked, her voiceced with worry and curiosity. Wang Lu ignored her question and stared at her intensely as if he was examining her.

    "How could you? Was my love not enough?" Wang Lu asked coldly, a murderous aura surrounding him.

    Feng Mei felt her stomach clenched and her head spun from fear and confusion.

    ''Did he find out?'' Seeing the guilt and fear which shed in her eyes. Wang Lu looked away as if the mere sight of her will stain his eyes.

    "What are you talking about?" She choked out as her voice breaking

    She had visited his father in the hospital today, she wanted to know why the father and son duo wasn''t talking to each other. The man had just a few months to live and Feng Mei wanted to make sure Wang Lu talks to him before he dies. She didn''t think he would find out about her visiting him since he forbid her not to talk to his father.

    "Stop pretending!" Wang Lu let out a groan of frustration.

    "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to-"

    "Cheat on me?" Wang Lu interjected her coldly. Feng Mei gasped a looked at him in disbelief. ''Cheat on him?''

    "Wait, what?" Wang Lu walked closer to her, with his face inches away from her,

    "My mother was right, you''re nothing but a gold digger!" He said as heughed savagely in her face.

    Tears prick at the back of Feng Mei''s eyes.

    "I don''t know what you''re talking about." Wang Lu let out augh.

    "Of course, you''re going to pretend. Do I look like a fool to you?"

    Wang Lu said as he loosened his tie and ran a hand through his disheveled hair.

    "Tell me, was it worth it?" I gave you everything but you, ungrateful slut, you dare betrayed me!."Feng Mei held her chest, as his words stabbed her more and more to her heart. The man who held her this morning and told her he loved her was calling her a slut. His face filled with sheer disgust.

    "Wang Lu, what are you talking about? I love you, I would never cheat on you! Trust me please."

    "Trust you? After what you have done?" Feng Mei didn''t what she has done for him to use her of cheating on him. She would never cheat on him, he is all she has left now in this city. Her parents have died and her only friend was still in aa. She doesn''t know if she would even make it."

    Feng Mei looked at him to search in his eyes if he was joking but all she found was hate and disgust.

    "Wang Lu-" She called him.

    The sound of something mming on her face interrupted her. Yan Mei picked up the folder and saw it was divorce papers.

    "You better sign that and don''t think I will give you anything."

    Feng Mei wiped her tears, "How can you say that I don''t even know why-" She trailed off, her voice trembled as she forced down the bile in throat.

    "Shut up! I don''t want to listen to your voice. I hate the day I met you, Feng Mei, You disgust me!."

    Feng Mei closed her eyes in pain, today was supposed to be her happiest day but it turned out to be the worst day for her. For this man, she lost so much but now he was ruthlessly calling her names and using her of cheating without giving her the chance to exin herself. Is his love for her, that shallow?''

    Feng Meiughed bitterly as she stared at the man who promised to be there for her for better or worse. How ironic.

    "Please trust me, calm down let''s talk." Feng Mei pleaded.

    Wang Lu shuddered in anger when he heard her. ''Trust her? ''How can he trust her after what he saw and heard. He never knew women can be so ruthless!

    Her mocking voice still rang in his ears. His heart hurt a lot, he really gave this woman everything but she betrayed him. Tears welled in his eyes but he kept his face nk. There is no way he would give her the satisfaction of seeing him cry over her betrayal. The love he felt for her was now reced by endlessly hate and disgust.

    Feng Mei looked at the folder in her hands and felt helpless. She was too shocked to react to what was happening. Never in a million did she think would be getting divorced at the age of twenty-one.

    "Wang Lu, are you sure? Let''s talk, please. I''m pre-"

    "Don''t waste my time, sign it." Wang Lu said coldly, staring at her. Yan Mei held back her tears, she saw no emotion in his eyes. She felt her heartbreaking.

    Feng Mei wiped away her tears and signed the divorce papers. She knows once Wang Lu makes up his mind no one can change it. After she finished signing, he took the folder from her hands and scanned through. Feng Mei looked away from him, not wanting him to see the pain in her eyes.

    After he finished looking through the divorce papers he looked up at her, "Now leave my house."

    In a sh he held her arms and dragged her out of the room, the servants looked at their master who was ruthlessly dragging Feng Mei out and began to whisper. They have all seen how much their master loves and pampers her, so why was he dragging her out of the house.

    "Please, Wang Lu, you can''t do this, I have to tell you something." He chuckled darkly

    "I don''t care what you have to see, get out of my life now. Don''t you get it? I hate you and every second I had spent with you!." He dropped her in the grass in front of the house as the rain hit her face. He turned around without sparing her a nce and began to walk away.

    "Wang Lu, wait!" She shouted at him. Wang Lu stopped and turned to look at her, he doesn''t know why he turned but when he did and saw her sitting on the grass with a disheveled look, a surge of pain overwhelmed him.

    "What?" He asked, his voice slightly softened.

    Feng Mei removed the bracelet he had given her on their second anniversary and threw it at him.

    "You will regret this, Wang Lu!" He chuckled when he heard her, ignoring her, he turned around as he walked back to the door, the sound of the door closing crushed her heart into two.

    Her hands clutch her stomach as she wept in sorrow. What did she do wrong to deserve this? She has shown nothing but loyalty to this man, She didn''t even have male friends due to how possessive he was. But now, he is using of cheating without giving her the chance to exin. Everybody keeps leaving her. Was she a bad omen? Feng Mei''s mind was overwhelmed.

    She realized she has nowhere to go. She can''t go to her father because they had fought when she told him she was going to marry Wang Lu. Will he tell her, he told her so?

 Chapter 50 Crazy in love with you.

    <h4>Chapter 50 Crazy in love with you.</h4>

    **Please don''t give spoilers in the review sections after knowing what happed to Fl. Pleease it destroys the all my hard work to maintain mysteries. Thank you!

    "Wifey." Lei Zhao said softly cupping her face with his hands noticing the difort in her eyes. Yan Mei looked away trying to hide the emotions in her eyes.

    "I know you have been investigating me about my past but you didn''t find anything." Yan Mei whispered weakly. "You must be curious about my past and my nightmares."

    Lei Zhao look at her and smiled embarrassingly, "Yeah I did, I couldn''t find anything about you."

    Yan Mei looked at her hands, "I came to city S because I wanted to start over and forget him."

    "Him?" Lei Zhao asked, "Who?" Yan Mei bit her lips to stop it from trembling as she tried to mention his name. The name she has hidden deep in her heart.

    "Wang Lu, my ex-husband."

    "Ex-Husband?" Lei Zhao widened his eyes as he asked.

    Tears flowed from her eyes as she soon as she said the name came out from her mouth. It was a name she has grown to despise. A name that has caused her countless nightmares. The name that has made her lose everything, including her child and the name that has turned her into this devil.

    "Yes, remember I told you that love is a scam? That''s why I''m afraid to fall in love with you."

    Lei Zhao clenched her jaw and nodded stiffly.

    "I was married at the age of neen." Yan Mei said looking at Lei Zhao with guilt.

    "I met him at a friend''s party. He was nice, sweet, the charming type of guy even though he had a cold aura that didn''t allow people to approach him." Yan Mei said not noticing the jealousy brewed in Lei Zhao''s eyes.

    "He chased me for weeks before I epted his proposal and we started going out. Everything was going well you know, he pampered and treated me right. I was happy with him until his crazy ex came, she made my life a living hell. I wasn''t strong back then and I was pretty na?ve but as they say, love conquers all." Yan Mei said as she chuckled humorlessly.

    "After going through a lot of trials together we finally got married." She stated. He was really rich and there were a lot of girls that wanted him so I thought I would feel secure if we get married. My dad was against the idea, but my mother said as long as I''m happy she didn''t mind" Yan Mei gulped and wiped the tears.

    "His mother didn''t really like me she thought I was a gold digger. My parents weren''t super-rich, we were just an average middle-ss family. But my parents gave me everything I wanted. I was a princess for my parents. My dad gave me everything." Yan Mei said sadly remembering her parents.

    "His mother would verbally abuse me anytime she sees me and her son wasn''t around. At times too, she would intentionally hurt me. I never told him because I didn''t want to be the reason why a mother and son would fight. "

    "What!" Lei Zhao busted out in anger.

    Yan Mei rubbed her hand on his own trying to calm him down. They were still sitting on the bench at the park but fortunately, there wasn''t anybody around.

    One year after our marriage, I lost my parents in a car ident". Yan Mei''s voice cracked at the end as tears started pouring from her eyes. Lei Zhao''s eyes turned from anger to concern.

    "It was my fault, they died. Wang Lu''s ex had gotten out of jail and in order to get revenge, she had cut the brakes from my parent''s car. If I hadn''t married Wang Lu as my dad said, she would''ve never targeted my parents to get back at me. She wanted me to live with the guilt, knowing that my parents died because I marry the man she wanted."

    Lei Zhao growled and hugged her tightly. "Shsss¡­..it''s not your fault. Don''t me yourself." He said as he ced a kiss on her forehead in reassurance.

    "It''s not your fault, his ex was a psychopath, your parents wouldn''t want you to me yourself."

    Yan Mei smiled but the smile didn''t reach her eyes.

    "It wasn''t easy when I lost my parents but Wang Lu and my best friend Fu Xin was there for me. So I was able to recover from my grief. " Yan Mei whispered.

    Lei Zhao nodded, "You seemed to have a good rtion with your husband what happened?" Lei Zhao clenched his fist as he uttered the word husband. He was burning with rage and jealousy inside but he listened quietly to her.

    Yan Mei trembled and began to sob silently, "One night, he came home and¡­"

    Her voice cracked,

    "It''s okay if you don''t want to talk about it." Lei Zhao said softly.

    Yan Mei shook her head and wiped her tears, "You deserve to know if you want to leave me after knowing everything I won''t me you."

    Lei Zhao pulled her into his chest, she heard his heart thumping against his chest as she leaned on his chest.

    "You hear that sound? That''s my heart beating for you, I don''t care about your past wifey, I only want you."

    "Promise?" She asked softly.

    "I promise, wifey. I love you, no matter your past my feeling for you won''t change." He said his voice full of sincerity.

    Yan Mei nodded, "I found out I was pregnant on our second anniversary. I wanted to surprise him with my baby bump on his birthday which was a few months after the anniversary, so I got pretty distant with him during those months. I always made an excuse anytime he tried to be close to me. A day before his birthday¡­"

    Yan Mei took a deep breath, "he came home angry and he used me of cheating on him."

    Lei Zhao widened his eyes, "What did you say?" he asked cautiously.

    "No, of course, I didn''t cheat on him obviously! I loved him!" Yan Mei said angrily. She thought Lei Zhao believed that she cheated on Wang Lu.

    Yan Mei saw the pain in Lei Zhao''s eyes and opened her mouth

    "I didn''t mean to¡­.i thought you believe I cheated on him." Lei Zhao shook his head. "It''s okay, I know it must be hard for you to open the scars you have buried for too long." He said, his voice strained.

    "He didn''t even give me the chance to exin, he made me sign divorce papers and threw me out in the cold night. It was raining heavily that night too. I had nowhere to go. My best friend was in aa and I had fought with my dad."

    Lei Zhao raised his brows, "Didn''t your parents die in a car ident?" He asked with curiosity.

    "Yeah, I grew up with my stepdad, I met my biological father when I was fifteen. We were pretty close."

    Lei Zhao frowned, he never thought his wife had such aplicated past.

    "I don''t know what I did for him to use me of cheating. That night I lost everything including my baby."

    Yan Mei tightened the grip on his shirt. Her tears dampened his shirt as he wrapped his arm around her body. "It''s okay. Everything would be okay."

    Yan Mei sobbed heavily, "I want to forget everything but I can''t."

    Lei Zhao held her, without saying anything. "I got hit by a car that night when I was crossing the road, I had no idea where I was going, All I remember was one second I was crossing the road, the next I saw a blinding light heading straight for me followed by an abrupt honk."

    "It''s okay, don''t talk about it anymore." Yan Mei hupped and buried her head in his chest. She gripped his shirt in her hand, tears continued to run down her cheek and soaked his shirt.

    There was a cold silence, only Yan Mei''s sobs could be heard. Lei Zhao was shocked. The woman in his arms had gone through so much at such a young age. Neen, twenty years was supposed to a year where she had to enjoy her youth but life has been so cruel to her. Lei Zhao didn''t know how to react now that he knows her past. But he knew that he would never hurt her.

    Yan Mei pulled away from him and stared at him, "I''m a bad omen, Lei Zhao. I cause destruction wherever I go. I''m doomed not to be happy. I can''t let you hurt too-"

    Lei Zhao touched her cheeks with his fingers as he wiped the traces of tears that had stained her face. He looked deeply into her eyes and frowned.

    "Don''t say that you''re not a bad omen."

    "But-"

    "If you are going to be my destruction, then I don''t mind." Yan Mei felt her heart skip a beat when she heard him. How can he be so calm after everything she just told him.

    "You''re so unreal." She whispered lowly.

    "How can you be so calm? Shouldn''t you hate me for deceiving you to marry a divorced woman?"

    "Because I love you and we are already married. You''re my everything whether good or bad. You''re mine."

    "You''re crazy."

    Lei Zhao smiled softly at her, "Yeah, I am crazy in love with you."

    A/N: please add my new book, The Beautiful Monster to your library.

 Chapter 51 Youâ€™re the husband

    <h4>Chapter 51 You''re the husband</h4>

    "Sir, the Li family in city S sent us an invitation to their charity g in honor of Mrs. Li''s birthday," Wang Lu''s secretary, Qin Zhi, said in a frightened voice.

    His boss was always cold and he always had this murderous aura that made Qin Zhi nervous every time he was in front of him. He has never seen his bossugh since he became his secretary three years ago.

    He had heard rumors that his wife left him five years ago, which turned him into this bitter and angry person. Qin Zhi is always sweating every time he is in his presence. He knew that if hemitted one mistake, his boss could go ballistic.

    "Sir¡­." He spoke again to get Wang Lu''s attention since he hadn''t responded.

    "Yeah, I heard you," Wang Lu said rubbing his temples. He seemed to be annoyed, snappiness present in his voice. "When is the g," he asked and his secretary answered him.

    "In three days, sir."

    Wang Lu frowned. He has hardly attended any of these public gatherings these past few years. He hated these social gatherings where everybody was trying to show off how much money they had. But since hispany was working with Li Corps, he had no choice but to attend.

    "Sir¡­ are we going? I heard a lot of businessmen would be there. This party could help us a lot," Qin Zhi asked and said nervously, expectant for his boss'' answer.

    "Hmm. Book our ne tickets and a hotel," Wang Lu answered as he closed his eyes tiredly.

    "Alright, Sir." Qin Zhi said as he hurriedly fled the office as if he didn''t want to stay in the room any longer.

    The moment he left, Feng Mei''s smiling face shed before Wang Lu''s eyes.

    "Wang Lu, do I look pretty," Feng Mei asked as she stared at him with her pure eyes.

    "Hmm... my Meimei is the most beautiful woman in the entire world," hemented as he tickled her on the bed. Her softughter sounded in the bedroom as she begged him to stop.

    Wang Lu jerked his eyes open as he ran a frustrated hand through his hair. For the past few days since his nightmare, he had tried to convince himself that she is the one who had cheated on him. He didn''t have to feel guilty for what he did.

    She had betrayed him so he shouldn''t waste his time thinking about her but he couldn''t. Herughter, smile, and pure eyes had been haunting him¡ªas if he was prey! He always thinks about her. Wang Lu was in a constant battle with himself between his mind and heart.

    His mind was telling him to let go since he has a fianc¨¦e now. But s¡ªhis heart wouldn''t let go. Deep down he knew that what he did was wrong. Her parents died because of his crazy ex. She had no one, but he had ruthlessly thrown her out. Anger blinded him that time and he hated himself for letting his anger cloud his judgment that night.

    *****

    Edward Wu stared at his friend as he took a sip of his coffee. Lei Zhao had invited him out for coffee since he apparently needed his advice.

    "You really love this woman?"

    Lei Zhao turned to look at him and nodded to answer his question.

    "Yes, but she had a rough past so she is afraid to fall in love, I guess." Lei Zhao sighed as he gave his disheartened answer.

    "Women areplicated. You have to make her feel you love her with your actions, not just by telling her through words." Lei Zhao frowned, slightly not understanding what his friend wanted to convey.

    "What do you mean?"

    "Don''t just hold her and tell her you love her. For someone who has been emotionally bruised, she needs to feel that someone loves her sincerely¡ªgenuinely."

    After giving his advice, Edward Wu watched the man in front of him. Lei Zhao''s gaze glimmered and at the same time, he narrowed his eyes as he heard his friend''s statement.

    "What do you even know about her? Do you know her favorite food, color, music?"

    Lei Zhao took a deep breath, realizing that he had actually no clue about any of her interests. "No, I don''t."

    Edward Wu gave him a slight smile.

    "You need to be patient with her dude, take her out on a date, buy her flowers, choctes, or gifts. The fact that she opened up to youst night shows that she trusts you."

    Lei Zhao nodded in agreement, wanting to take his suggestion into consideration. "I want to take her out on a date tonight. Any ideas?"

    Edward Wu shed him a smiled and nodded, feeling satisfied with Lei Zhao''s course of action. "Just leave everything to me. I will send you an addresster."

    Feeling relieved to have some help, and feeling nervous about the date at the same time, Lei Zhao nodded at his friend, appreciating his help.

    "Will you attend Li''s family g? I heard they invited a lot of prominent people," Edward Wu asked as he took another sip of his coffee, waiting for Lei Zhao''s reply. Lei Zhao took his cup of coffee then also took a sip before giving Edward Lu his answer.

    "It''s my aunt''s birthday. I have to go. I just have to convince my wife to apany me," Lei Zhao answered then he sighed as he put his cup of coffee down on the table.

    _

    Yan Mei picked up her phone and saw that it was her uncle calling him.

    "Hello," she greeted, waiting for the reply of the person on the other end of the call.

    "Yan Mei, it''s uncle. I wanted to remind you of the Li family''s g. The one I discussed with you the other day."

    "Ah¡­" Yan Mei blinked her eyes a few times as she realized that she had totally forgotten about the ball she promised her uncle to attend. She scratched the back of her head then gave her uncle her reply. "Okay, uncle. I will be there."

    "Alright see you there. I hope you would bring your husband. I would love to meet him," he said with a little bit of excitement etched in his voice.

    "Okay," Yan Mei answered then she bit her lip with the thought of introducing her husband to her uncle.

    "Mmm¡­ Take care," her uncle bid her farewell making the girl on the other end of the call nod even though she knew he couldn''t see her.

    "Okay," Yan Mei said as she hung up the call.

    The moment the call ended, her brows furrowed as she thought of ways to ask Lei Zhao to go on the g with her. She had to ask him tonight since the g is to happen in three days.

    Shaking this thought for a while, she opened herptop then focused on her work. An hourter her office phone rang, distracting her from her spontaneity.

    "Ah¡­" Hunching her brows together, she answered the phone as she pinched the bridge of her nose.

    "Yes?"

    "President Yan, you have a visitor." Su Bei''s amused voice sounded on the other side of the phone.

    "Who," she asked, not really expecting anyone. At the same time, hearing Su Bei''s excitement piqued her curiosity!

    "He imed that he is your husband," Su Bei answered as she looked at the man in front of her.

    She had to admit¡­ this man is handsome as his unfathomable cynical eyes contrasted exceptionally with his well-built face! Just a look at him is enough to make every woman swoon in delight!

    "Erm¡­ Lei Zhao," Yan Mei asked. She wasn''t expecting him to visit her at the office.

    "Yeah, that is his name. Should I let him in?"

    Yan Mei bit her lips nervously. She had left early today for work while he was still sleeping because she was afraid to talk to him this morning. She didn''t know how to act around him after she told him about her pastst night.

    "Yan Mei¡­"

    Su Bei''s worried voice sounded at the other side when she didn''t hear an answer from her friend.

    "Ahh...yes," Yan Mei answered, finally shaken from her thoughts.

    "Alright," Su Bei said as she hung up the call. Looking at the man in front of her, Su Bei spoke as she put down the phone. "So, you''re the husband."

    Lei Zhao raised his brows when he heard her.

    "Yeah, I am." Lei Zhao murmured.

    "You know if you hurt her, I will skin you alive," Su Bei jokingly threatened as she gave him a sinister smile.

 Chapter 52 Starter

    <h4>Chapter 52 Starter</h4>

    Disimer: boring mature content ahead read at your own risk lololol

    Lei Zhao knocked on Yan Mei''s door. She stood up, walked to the door and quickly opened it.

    She saw Lei Zhao leaning against the door frame. He straightened himself up the moment he saw her. Yan Mei felt her heart skip a beat, as she did a quick scan on the man in front of him looking like a model.

    He was wearing a blue denim jacket with a white t-shirt underneath. His ck trousers sat at his hipspleting the look with white sneakers. Her eyes were scanning him then she saw him wearing the watch she gave him.

    Feeling pleased, she looked at the man in front of her and their eyes met. "What are you doing here," she asked, raising her chin.

    "Ouch! Wifey, is this how you wee your husband," he asked with a smirk, feigning pain.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes at him as she spoke. "You still haven''t answered me."

    "I missed you. I didn''t see you this morning and I couldn''t stop thinking about you so here I am," he said as he gave her a smug smile again, making Yan Mei''s heart internally swoon. "Won''t you let me in? I don''t think you want your employees to see me kissing you," he added teasingly, his eyes dancing with mirth.

    Yan Mei''s heart fluttered when she heard him. Just those yful words¡­ but it was enough for it to tug her heartstrings! Is she a teenager?

    ''He couldn''t stop thinking about me?''

    Internally shaking herself from her thoughts, she cleared her throat then she opened the door widely for his entry.

    "Come in."

    The moment she closed the door, Lei Zhao hugged her from behind, his chin resting on her shoulder. Just a simple gesture between husband and wife, Yan Mei couldn''t help but feel slightly taken aback.

    "Wifey¡­ why did you leave early today," he asked yfully, with his brows knitted in a frown. This made him act like a child.

    "I-I had an important meeting," Yan Mei answered, slightly stuttering, then she licked her red lips nervously.

    "Hmm," Lei Zhao said bleakly, ying with her hair as he twirled it between his fingers. He released her from his hold and walked to the couch and satfortably.

    Yan Mei narrowed her eyes and parted her lips slightly. She didn''t know why, but her mood plummeted when he said nothing. She stared at his deadpan expression and felt a little awkward.

    "So¡­" She said as she trailed off. "Would you like a cup of coffee," she continued, wanting to break the awkwardness.

    Lei Zhao shook his head as his answer.

    "Oh..what would you like then? I can let my assistant bring it," she asked and Lei Zhao''s eyes shed when he heard her. He stared at her with an intense gaze but still said nothing.

    Yan Mei fidgeted when she felt his ardent gaze on her. She coughed to hide her awkwardness and went back to her seat.

    "I will finish my work in thirty minutes then we''ll go home," Yan Mei just said as her eyes strayed to the wall clock. She noticed that it was already 5:00 pm.

    "Alright." Lei Zhao said tly, feeling rather nonchnt.

    Yan Mei walked back to her seat and picked up the document she was reading earlier. A line etched between her brows as she focused on reading the document. She was a sight to behold.

    Her beautiful almond-shaped eyes that showed little emotions, her perfectly arched brows which she raises when she is confused, her high cheekbones which make her look like a Greek goddess, her full lips which she bites when she is nervous, her heart-shaped face which is mostly devoid of any emotion and her long smooth ck hair pulled into a ponytail¡­ looking at this, he felt content with just watching her. He could watch her all day without getting tired.

    Yan Mei could see him with her peripheral vision and she could see him studying her. Yan Mei felt a little ufortable with his intense stare. His eyes were boring holes into her. She couldn''t stand his piercing gaze anymore so she looked up at him, breaking the silence.

    "What," she asked looking askance at him.

    "You''re beautiful," he said with an inaudible husky voice that sent shivers down her spines.

    "You''re staring at me because I''m beautiful," she asked, cocking her brows.

    Lei Zhao unconsciously grinned foolishly. "Yes."

    Yan Mei stared at him for a few seconds before she looked back at her documents. A soft smile tugged at the corners of her lips as happiness warmed her from within.

    A few minutester, Yan Mei felt a shadow settle across from her. She looked up and met Lei Zhao''s eyes zing with desire. Her breath hitched. She stared at him as he walked around her desk and came to stand in front of her. His deep eyes scanned her face before theynded on her eyes.

    "All I have been thinking about is how much I want to bend you on this desk and make you scream my name."

    Heat curled down her spine when she heard his seductive statement. They stared at each other as desire radiated between them.

    Lei Zhao leaned in and pressed his lips against hers and kissed her. His tongue snaked across her lower lip asking for permission. She parted her lips then he slid his tongue inside. He pressed his chest closer to her as he deepened the kiss.

    Yan Mei couldn''t help but wrap her hands around his neck for support and kissed him hungrily.

    "I have been wanting to do this since¡­ I walked through that door," Lei Zhao said in between kisses.

    His lips left hers and it moved down to her neck, making her tilt her head back to give him better ess. He sucked on her earlobe which sent shivers along her spine.

    He pulled away from her and stared at her face flushed with desire. Yan Mei groaned in protest when he pulled away.

    "Rx, Wifey¡­ we are just getting started," he teased as he knelt in front of her. "I want to taste you, Wifey," he added with his eyes fixed on hers.

    Yan Mei knew he was asking for permission. He always asked for her consent every time they have sex. This little gesture warmed her heart.

    Yan Mei nodded as she bit her lips. There was something sensual about having a man kneel before you asking for your permission to let him eat you that made heat course through her veins.

    Lei Zhao pulled her skirt up at her thighs. He traced his circles on her legs up to her inner thigh with his eyes on her. Her breath quickened as he started kissing and licking between her inner thighs. He gently pulled her pants down and slid his fingers into her slit and had sessfully found her clit.

    He massaged her clit, making her gasp in shock and pleasure. He looked up, feeling satisfied as he saw her head tilt back, her lips parted slightly with her eyes closed.

    He smiled as he kissed her pussy''s lips then he stuck his tongue out to lick the edges gently. He wanted to make this intensely sensual for her so he slowly licked and sucked on her clit.

    "Hmm¡­"

    She moaned at the sensation when she felt his nose brush against her clit, his tongue exploring her folds. The pleasure made her arch her back as she moaned loudly.

    Lei Zhao slid a finger inside her as Yan Mei hands raked through his hair as her moan got louder.

    "Fuck... oh," she panted as he sucked and licked, driving her to the edge of pleasure. Lei Zhao added another finger as he sucked rapidly on her clit.

    "Aha¡­ Lei Zhao!"

    Yan Mei moaned when she felt her climax building. He slid his fingers deeper inside her, hitting her G-spot.

    "Jeez... you look so beautiful¡ªall flushed from me pleasuring you," he growled as he increased the speed of his fingers. Yan Mei cried out in pleasure as she cums convulsively, her entire body spasming and rocking uncontrobly.

    Lei Zhao sucked and licked her clean. Yan Mei arched her neck from the pleasure.

    "This is a better starter," he said as he licked his fingers.

 Chapter 53 Surprise

    <h4>Chapter 53 Surprise</h4>

    A sudden knock on the door interrupted Yan Mei and Lei Zhao.

    "President Yan?"

    Su Bei called out behind the door, making the two turn to look at the door, slightly feeling rmed. Yan Mei felt her cheeks heat with embarrassment.

    "Hold on a second," Yan Mei said as Lei Zhao helped her quickly button her shirt. She pulled her skirt back on then straightened it to look presentable. Lei Zhao fixed her hair then he calmly walked back to the couch and satfortably as if nothing had happened.

    "Come in," Yan Mei called out loud making Su Bei open the door and came in with a straight face but her eyes were dancing with mirth.

    "This is the document you requested for."

    Yan Mei looked at her and awkwardly nodded. She had forgotten that she had requested for a document before Lei Zhao came in.

    "Thank you."

    She couldn''t look at Su Bei straight in the eyes because she knew Su Bei had an idea about why she took long to ask her toe in.

    Su Bei turned to look at Lei Zhao and a smug grin appeared on her face. She remembered what he had said when she threatened him.

    "You know if you hurt her, I would skin you alive," Su Bei said crossing her arms across her chest.

    "Why would I hurt the woman I will spend the rest of my life with?"

    Lei Zhao furrowed his brows, confusion marred on his face. He didn''t know why she would think he would hurt the woman he loves. After everything his wife had gone through, Lei Zhao understood why Su Bei was protective of her. With that thought in mind, he just sighed.

    Su Bei snorted, "Well, I hope you don''t hurt her for your own good." Su Bei nodded slightly at Lei Zhao and left the office. Sensing the weird atmosphere between Lei Zhao and Su Bei, Yan Mei looked at him with wonder.

    "What was that," Yan Mei asked, cocking her head to the side.

    "Apparently, your secretary sh best friend was warning me not to hurt you or she would skin me alive," Lei Zhao replied mncholically.

    "Oh." Yan Mei muttered cidly. Warmth coursed through her. She didn''t think Su Bei will be this protective of her. Suddenly she remembered her best friend.

    "I can''t believe you just did that." Feng Mei shook her head as she roared withughter.

    "What? She just called my best friend a bitch," Fu Xin said feigning innocently.

    "You punched her at her face, Fufu! You don''t just punch a girl''s face." Feng Meiughed out loud.

    The people at the coffee shop stared at them as they sat thereughing together.

    "She shouldn''t have called you a bitch if she didn''t want to get punched. Only I have the right to bully you and call you names," Fu Xin said with an evil smug across her face.

    "Asshole," Feng Mei mumbled, but it was enough for the other to hear.

    "What did you say, sweetheart," Fu Xin asked, raising her brows.

    "I said I love you," Feng Mei just said, pouting at the same time.

    "I know you do! Look at how beautiful I am. How can someone hate me?"

    Feng Mei rolled her eyes and took a sip of her coffee. Leave it to Fu Xin to be shameless.

    "You know I will always protect you," Fu Xin said after a few seconds of silence.

    Feng Mei stuck out her tongue at her, "Of course you will! I''m the only one crazy enough to be your friend."

    Yan Mei didn''t notice the tear that had slipped from her eyes until she felt Lei Zhao''s stiff hand on her face, wiping the tears.

    "Wifey, are you¡ªwhy are you crying?" Lei Zhao''s worried voice sounded.

    Yan Mei looked at him and smiled softly, "Sorry, I just remembered my best friend."

    Lei Zhao nodded, "The one in aa?"

    "Yes." Yan Mei uttered as her answer.

    Feeling his heart shake with his wife''s sudden disy of sadness, he gave a suggestion.

    "Do you want me to trace her whereabouts?"

    Hearing this, Yan Mei shook her head as she wiped her own tears then held Lei Zhao''s hands that wiped her tears away from her cheeks.

    "No¡­ she diedst year. She was in aa for three years. I think it''s good that she died¡­ since she was suffering a lot. I wouldn''t want her pain to prolong."

    Lei Zhao sighed. His wife was really pitiful.

    "Sorry¡­." He said trailing off. He knew no words could ease the pain and scars in her heart.

    "It''s okay. She would beat me if she sees me crying over her death," Yan Mei said, offering Lei Zhao a sad smile.

    Lei Zhao nodded in understanding, "Let''s go. I have a surprise for you," Lei Zhao said giving her a quick kiss.

    Yan Mei raised her brows, not expecting where this ising from.

    "A surprise?"

    Lei Zhao nodded and grinned mysteriously.

    Yan Mei turned off herputer then she picked her purse. She was eager to see the surprise he had for her.

    Lei Zhao walked beside her and held her waist. They walked to her private elevator while Lei Zhao still held her waist.

    Yan Mei could see her employees curiously gazing at her but they didn''t dare gossip, seeing her aloof face and the cold essence surrounding her.

    The moment Yan Mei left the office, murmurs began. The silence broke since everyone was curious about the mysterious man with their president. They have never seen their president close to the opposite sex!

    Seeing this was like seeing something foreign!

    There were rumors that the president liked women but now they just saw their president walking with a handsome man. They could clearly see how the man''s eyes glow with affection as he nced at their president.

    "Who is that man with our president?"

    "Did you see him holding her waist?"

    "Oh my, don''t tell me our aloof president is finally in love!"

    Yan Mei had no idea about the chaos she had just caused in her own office. She got into the car and left with Lei Zhao.

    After half an hour the car suddenly stopped at the beach. Yan Mei turned to look at Lei Zhao.

    "What are we doing at the beach," she asked, her face contorted with confusion.

    Lei Zhao said warmly at her, "You would know soon."

    He got out of the car and went to open her door for her. Lei Zhao held her hands, his warm hand intecing with hers hadpletely eased her low mood.

    "Let''s go," Lei Zhao said, licking his lips nervously. He really hopes that she likes his surprise!

    They walked for a few minutes before stopping at a particr ce. Yan Mei froze when she saw the scene in front of her.

 Chapter 54 Dinner Date

    <h4>Chapter 54 Dinner Date</h4>

    Yan Mei stared at the scene in front of her and froze.

    There was an aisle of red rose petals leading to a meless tea light candles shaped in the form of a heart. At the center of the heart-shaped candles was a table with lit tealight candles, ced in a delicate candle holder on the table. White napkins were spread on the table with a bouquet of flowers in the middle. A bottle of champagne was lying in a bucket of ice waiting to be drunk.

    Instantly her jaw dropped and her eyes widened. She was in shock! Yan Mei never thought someone would take his time to prepare such a romantic dinner. She can see he put in a lot of thoughts into this.

    "Do you like it," Lei Zhao nervously asked as he scratched the back of his head.

    Yan Mei turned to face a very nervous looking Lei Zhao. She could see the fear in his deep eyes. ''Was he afraid that she wouldn''t like it? ''

    "No."

    Hearing her answer, his face dropped as he looked at his toes, now feeling disappointed at himself. His stomach churned in disdain. Knowing his wife, he should have known that she would hate something like this.

    "Oh¡­" He trailed off, not knowing what to say. "If you don''t like it, we can go to a restaurant," he added tly, trying his best to contain his sadness.

    Yan Mei stared at him, and a soft smile tugged at the corner of her lips. She could hear the disappointment in his voice.

    "I love it, stupid!"

    "Huh?" Lei Zhao asked nkly, he thought he had heard her wrong.

    "I don''t like it¡ªI love it rather. It''s so beautiful!"

    Lei Zhao''s face beamed with a smile when he heard her. Seeing his beautiful smile, Yan Mei couldn''t help but also smile.

    That smile was the prettiest thing Lei Zhao had seen in a while. It seemed so genuinely sweet that an unexpected warmth rushed through him. He felt his heart beating as he stared at her in a daze. If Yan Mei''s smile is the sunlight, then Lei Zhao would be the sunburn.

    "Are you going to stare at me all night with that smitten look," Yan Meiughed as she teasingly asked.

    Lei Zhao grinned, "It''s not my fault that my wife is the most beautiful woman in the world," he purred, now feeling satisfied with the surprise he had prepared for his beloved Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes at him. She realized that he had been hiding his left hand behind his back since they got out of the car. Lei Zhao saw her looking intently, so he walked closer to her.

    Feeling giddy as he tried to be serious, he grabbed her hand and ced a beautiful red aster flower in her hands.

    "I know you like watching the stars¡­ so the first thing I thought about is to give you an aster flower. Aster flower is derived from the Greek word, "Star". It also symbolizes faithfulness. And since I like you wearing red, I chose this red aster which symbolizes my undying devotion to you."

    Yan Mei felt tears brimming around her eyes, threatening to fall but she mmed them back. She stared at him and didn''t know how to react.

    This man kept melting her icy heart with his thoughtfulness, patience, and love. Even a robot without any emotion could still be touched by him. She threw her arms around his neck and pressed her head into his shoulder. They almost fell since he was caught off guard, but he instinctively wrapped his arms her for his dear wife''s protection.

    Lei Zhao grabbed the flower she was holding and put it on her hair.

    "There¡­ beautiful," heplimented with a soft smile.

    Yan Mei touched the flower and couldn''t help but feel giddy. At that moment, she felt like she was neen again, going on a romantic date with her prince charming.

    Lei Zhao saw her in a pleasant mood and felt that Edward Wu did a marvelous job. He owes him since all of this wouldn''t have been possible without him.

    Lei Zhao took her hands and led her to the table. He pulled out a chair for her then Lei Zhao sat across from her and smiled satisfactorily.

    The moment they sat down a waiter came to pour them wine and left without saying anything.

    Lei Zhao watched as she sipped her wine and Yan Mei noticed his fervent gaze, making her blush, her face now beet red.

    "What," she muttered embarrassingly. Lei Zhao shook his head and smiled warmly at her. Yan Mei noticed his eyes moved from her nose, cheeks, lips, the curve of her neck, then the tiny bit of cleavage peeking out from her shirt due to the opening of two buttons.

    Following how his eyes traveled on her, Yan Me rolled her eyes at him then spoke. "Pervert," Yan Mei said as snorted. Lei Zhao chuckled and winked at her.

    "I''m just checking out my wife! How does that make me a pervert?" He blinked at her innocently, as if feigning ignorance.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes again and ignored him.

    "So, what''s your favorite color," Lei Zhao asked curiously, remembering what Edward Wu told him when they went out for coffee. He wanted to know more about her.

    "Crimson red," she replied with a smile.

    "You really look good in that color," Lei Zhao said as they locked eyes across the table as everything around them started to fade away. They barely noticed the waiter as he ced the first-course meal in front of them.

    Realizing that they have been staring at each other for quite a long time, Yan Mei broke the gaze as she asked, "What is your favorite food?"

    She wanted to cook his favorite food for him in the near future. She ns on taking cooking sses to learn how to cook for him. It is the least thing that she could do to thank him.

    "Mapo Tofu," he answered, making the girl in front of him nod as she raised her brow.

    Lei Zhao watched as she ate with a soft look on his face. Yan Mei gazed over him over her ss as she sipped her wine. She knew he was watching her.

    "What did you want to be when you were a kid," Lei Zhao suddenly asked, making Yan Mei think of her answer for a while.

    "Hmm¡­ a princess. I wanted a prince charming toe to sweep me off my feet!"

    Lei Zhao burst outughing when he heard her. He hadn''t expected to hear this answer from her!

    "Really? Don''t tell me you had been fantasizing about fairy tales."

    Yan Mei red at him when he heard his remark. Because of his reaction, this made the girl feel childish!

    "Don''t me me. It''s not my fault! My mother would always read me a fairy tale story before I sleep every night so I would fantasize about meeting an actual prince before sleeping."

    Hearing this, Lei Zhao thought his wife must have had been cute when she was a kid.

    "Hmm¡­ I see," Lei Zhao said as he tried to contain hisugh.

    "Well, what about you?" Yan Mei blushed slightly and tried to change the topic.

    "I wanted to be a soldier so I can protect my family," Lei Zhao shrugged as he answered, a strange glint passed through his eyes.

 Chapter 55 Dinner Date (2)

    <h4>Chapter 55 Dinner Date (2)</h4>

    They continued talking while refilling their wine sses. Yan Mei and Lei Zhao talked about their childhood, what they like and also what they dislike.

    Lei Zhao realized that his wife was really a simple person who had a high intellect with a great character, who also seems to know a lot of things.

    Sheughed at his jokes and looked even more beautiful. Lei Zhao felt happy that sheughed because of him. At that moment he promised to work hard to make his wifeugh more often.

    Once they finished eating the waiter brought them dessert. It was a chocte cake with chocte frosting, filled with chocte ganache. There were also sweet fresh strawberries which was used for the midyer and for the topping.

    Yan Mei reached for a strawberry but Lei Zhao deliberately snatched it just as her fingertip touched the fruit.

    "Hey!"

    He smirked at her as he took arge bite. Yan Mei pouted at him, but he smiled affectionately as he stood up and pulled her head for kiss.

    He kissed her softly, tasting the sweetness of the strawberry mixed with her sweetness while feeding her the rest with his mouth. Once he was done, he smiled at her. Yan Mei blushed and looked away.

    They shared the dessert as he fed her a small bite. Yan Mei couldn''t help but smile with pleasure at the sweetness. Lei Zhao looked at her smile and thought she looked cute. How could he not love her?

    He didn''t like sweets but looking at the pleasure on his wife''s face, he couldn''t help but take arge bite with the enthusiasm of a child. Yan Meiughed when she saw his smile congealed then melted into horror.

    "How can you eat this," Lei Zhaoined bitterly as he gave her another bite. Larger than the first one.

    Some of the cream spread at the corner of her lips. Yan Mei knew that he did that deliberately. He reached towards her before she could raise her napkin. He ced his hand softly on her cheek and leaned toward her. Lei Zhao licked the cream from the corner of her lips.

    "Yummy," he purred, making Yan Mei re at him.

    "I thought you hated it," she said rolling her eyes at him.

    "Yeah, I do¡­ but I don''t mind eating it from your lips. It makes it taste better."

    Yan Mei flushed.

    "Rogue."

    Lei Zhaoughed when he heard her.

    Once they finished eating Lei Zhao stood up from his chair and stepped over to her. He held out his hand which Yan Mei took and stood up. Lei Zhao led the way as they walked towards the waves.

    The air was still warm. The clear sky speckled with stars. The moon, nearly full, lighted the path ahead of them.

    They stopped at the edge of another sandy area of the shore of the ocean.

    Suddenly, Lei Zhao knelt down and unbuckled her shoes, then slipped them off her feet. Yan Mei stepped onto the sand. She smiled and squished it between her toes. Lei Zhao watched her with his eyes gleaming with affection. He watched as she ran towards the waves.

    Yan Mei let out a giggle as the water touched her feet. It was cold¡ªalmost numbing, but she didn''t care. She couldn''t resist the temptation to feel the water on her feet. The night was still, except for the cute woman sshing and exploring in the water before him.

    Lei Zhao was really surprised tonight. He had never seen this side of his wife before. She looked happier, cute and rxed. He knew she was showing him the real her underneath her cold mask.

    Seeing this side of her let his possessiveness kick in. He would protect her and make sure to keep the smile on her face. Thinking about the people who had hurt her, a murderous glint passed through his eyes. How can someone hurt a goddess like her?

    Yan Mei turned and looked back at him standing on the beach. She cocked her head as if to dare him toe in after her. He grinned and shook his head. She tilted her head and shouted,

    "Why? Are you afraid of water?!"

    "No, I just¡ª" Lei Zhao was interrupted as Yan Mei kicked a stream of water towards him, barely missing soaking his dry clothes.

    Lei Zhao wasn''t expecting that. The look of shock on his face let her knew he was caught off guard. She tilted her head back andughed. At that moment he fell in love with her a little more, wondering how that was even possible when he was already madly in love with her.

    Bored with ying alone, Yan Mei rejoined him on the sand. Once she reached him, he pulled her closer to him with his hand wrapped around her waist. He kissed her forehead, nose, lips. They kiss yfully with his hands on the back of her neck, holding her close to him.

    They kissed until nearly out of breath. Once they pulled apart Lei Zhao took her hands and started walking to the dock. Lei Zhao led her to the very end of the dock.

    They sat for a while at the end of the dock as Yan Mei tried to put her toes in the water, but it was just out of reach. She shrugged and rested her head on his shoulder instead.

    Letting out a sigh, she was finally rxed, resting against him. Enjoying the beauty of the ocean and the stillness of the night.

    Yan Mei wished this moment would never end. She could just be carefree and pretended that everything was okay. She didn''t have to pretend with him. She knew this man would still love her no matter which side of her she showed to him.

    That''s why she acted like her real self¡ªcute and yful and allowed herself to enjoy this date and hispany.

    Lei Zhao took her hands and caressed them from her wrist to her fingertip as if it was the most beautiful and fragile thing in the world.

    "Thank you," Yan Mei mumbled, sincerity etched in her voice.

    Lei Zhao smiled softly and kissed her forehead gently.

    "No, thank you foring into my life," he said, looking at her lovingly than usual.

    Yan Mei removed her head from his shoulder and kissed him sensually as the moon and stars witnessed the new chapter in their life.

 Chapter 56 Ying Sheng

    <h4>Chapter 56 Ying Sheng</h4>

    Lei Xiao Tong came to the mall to buy gifts for her sister since tomorrow was her birthday. She had called Yan Mei to apany her but unfortunately, Yan Mei declined since she had an emergency meeting with a foreign client. So, she had toe with her niece, Ying Sheng.

    "Aunt, what do you want to buy?"

    Ying Sheng looked a little impatient, but her attitude was still good. She didn''t darein because she owed her aunt.

    Her aunt was the one who had defended her when she had gotten a tattoo. She shivered anytime she remembered the murderous glint in her father''s eyes that day.

    Her aunt was not someone who loved shopping, so she was curious about what her aunt wanted to buy. Lei Xiao Tong knew her niece had always been impulsive and impatient since she was a child. Wearing a ck cotton t-shirt with a gold chain paired with camo pants and a converse, her niece was the typical bad girl with a big snake tattoo on her left arm.

    "You stinky girl! No matter how impatient you are, you have to apany me today. Also, you have to dress like a properdy. How are you supposed to marry into a respectable family with you dressing like this?"

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes when she heard her aunt.

    "Aunt, the man who loves me wouldn''t mind the way I dress. He would love me for who I am."

    Lei Xiao Tong heaved a sigh, "Your father said he is arranging a marriage with the Xia family. He would introduce you guys tomorrow, so I should tell you to dress properly. Also, do something about that thing on your hand."

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes, "What?! He is arranging a marriage for me? I''m just twenty-one years old!"

    Ying Sheng brows knitted in a frown.

    "I was pregnant with my first born when I was twenty-one."

    "But it wasn''t an arranged marriage! And Uncle Lei was good to you!"

    Frustration crinkled in Ying Shing''s eyes.

    "I heard the young master of the Xia family is really strange! How can dad let me marry him?''

    Lei Xiao Tong stopped and turned to look at her, "Don''t¡ª"

    Lei Xiao Tong was interrupted by a soft voice.

    "Auntie Lei, are you here, too?"

    Tang Wei was wearing a long white dress that made her look pure and innocent. Her long curly hair draped down her back. Although her facial features weren''t exquisite, her temperament was great.

    "You are¡­."

    Lei Xiao Tong saw a woman with an elegant temperament walking towards her and frowned slightly.

    Tang Wei wanted to go shopping today for the birthday g tomorrow. She didn''t think she would meet Lei Xiao Tong here!

    She knew if she wanted Brother Lei to notice her; she had to start with his mother. Getting Lei Xiao Tong''s support would make things easier for her! Thinking about Lei Zhao, Tang Wei was excited. She can''t wait to have him wrapped around her fingers.

    "Aunt Lei, you can''t recognize me, Tang Wei?"

    Tang Wei pouted, her face looking like an abandoned child.

    In Lei Xiao Tong''s eyes, she looked cute but Ying Sheng who was standing beside her aunt rolled her eyes. She felt Tang Wei was too pretentious and hearing her pitiful voice; she had the urge to vomit.

    She had never liked this woman!

    Ying Sheng felt she was too pretentious, and the scheming look in her eyes anytime she looked at her cousin, Li Wei, didn''t go unnoticed by her. She wondered why that stupid cousin of hers liked this white-lotus woman.

    "Oh, it turns out to be little Tang. I haven''t seen you in a long time. You have really changed over the past few years. You''re looking more beautiful," Lei Xiao Tongplimented as she smiled.

    Hearing the alienation in Lei Xiao Tong voice, an unknown glint passed through Tang Wei''s eyes. Since she wanted to please Lei Xiao Tong to get to Lei Zhao, she pretended not to hear the alienation in Lei Xiao Tong''s voice.

    Tang Wei looked at Ying Sheng and smiled, "Oh¡­it''s Ying Sheng!"

    Tang Wei thought Ying Sheng would say hello to her, but Ying Sheng ignored her and said to Lei Xiao Tong, "Aunt, I''m going to talk to dad. See you tomorrow at the g."

    Without waiting for Lei Xiao Tong''s response, Ying Sheng left without ncing at Tang Wei.

    Tang Wei saw Ying Sheng ignoring her and dug her nails into her palms to control her anger. She really hated Ying Sheng. She had always treated her like a servant anytime she visited the Li mansion.

    Ying Sheng used to bully her when they were kids because she didn''t want her to y with her cousins. Once she bes Mrs. Lei, she would make sure Ying Sheng pays for all the embarrassment she had put her through!

    "Ying Sheng has been spoiled since she was a child, don''t mind her," Lei Xiao Tong said, breaking Tang Wei out of her stupor.

    "It''s okay, Aunt. Don''t worry, I''m not angry. Maybe she had to leave in a hurry."

    Lei Xiao Tong nodded when she saw and was convinced that Tang Wei wasn''t angry.

    "Aunt Lei, since Ying Sheng left, let me apany you for shopping!"

    Lei Xiao Tong thought about it and nodded. She could use a second person''s opinion.

    "Okay."

    Along the way, Tang Wei kept looking for topics to talk about with Lei Xiao Tong and she kept ttering her. As long as Lei Xiao Tong liked her, she would ask Brother Zhao to leave that woman and marry her. Thinking about bing Lei Zhao''s wife she couldn''t help but get excited.

    At first, Lei Xiao Tong was very fond of Tang Wei since she used toe to the Lei''s house when she was a kid. Her gentle and sensible manner made Lei Xiao Tong like her more.

    However, with subsequentmunication, she saw the scheming in Tang Wei''s eyes and anytime she mentioned Lei Zhao her eyes would sparkle with an obsessive look.

    Lei Xiao Tong knew her son was married now, and he really loved his wife so she didn''t want to give Tang Wei false hope and she would never allow her to intervene between Yan Mei and Lei Zhao.

    The people she hated most were mistresses and people who intervened in people''s marriages. She could see how happy her son was these days, and she also really liked her daughter-inw.

    Tang Wei was just an outsider as long as she doesn''t do anything extreme, she won''t mind her. But once she dares to destroy their marriage, then she shouldn''t me her for being rude.

    "Miss Tang, it''s okay. My driver is here, you don''t have to apany me anymore," Lei Xiao Tong said as she took her shopping bags from Tang Wei''s hands and left without waiting for her response.

    "Aunt, wait!"

    Tang Wei called out Lei Xiao Tong, but she walked out of the mall without looking back.

    Tang Wei mped her fingers into her tender flesh until they made self-harm marks as she simmered with anger.

 Chapter 57 Someone from the past

    <h4>Chapter 57 Someone from the past</h4>

    Wang Lu''s brows bumped together in a scowl as he looked out his car window. It wasn''t the fact that his flight got dyed or the fact that he had been sitting in his car for nearly two hours due to the traffic on the road that had him riled up.

    It was the weird feeling that had been in his chest since he walked out of the airport and stepped into this city.

    City S was one of the most beautiful cities in the country known for its wonderful and modern architecture. It also had one of the most beautiful and green public parks in the world.

    Looking at the green park he suddenly thought of the one person he didn''t want to. Feng Mei.

    As an artist, she was a lover of nature. Something about nature inspiring her as an artist. She would have enjoyed sitting in this park as she drew.

    Wang Lu massaged his temples as frustration crinkled in his eyes.

    A memory shed before his eyes, Feng Mei with a blissful smile on her face had closed her eyes against the bright sunlight, as she absorbed its warmth. She had looked heavenly divine that he couldn''t look away. He had been captivated by her. Slowly opening her eyes, she had caught him staring at her. Their eyes had locked as time stood still and everything around them disappeared.

    Wang Lu mmed his eyes shut and clenched his fist when he realized he was thinking of her again. He tried not to think about anything that would excite his memories with her. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly.

    Wang Lu felt a heaviness in his chest as he tried to forget the memories. But as they say, "You can''t let go of memories because they are constant reminders of a great story you never expected to end."

    Suddenly his phone rang bringing him out of his trance. ncing briefly at the caller ID, Wang Lu narrowed his eyes.

    Here he was trying to forget another woman but the other had been continuously annoying him with marriage.

    Lisa Shen was the daughter of his mother''s best friend. Even though they had been engaged for two years now, he had hardly seen her. The only reason he had agreed to her being his fianc¨¦e was because of his mother.

    At first, when he thought that once he got engaged with Lisa, he would forget Feng Mei but when he was with her, all he does waspare the two.

    He had never touched her or anyone since Feng Mei left. He had tried but every time he touched someone, he would subconsciously think about Feng Mei''s pure face.

    He knew he was crazy for still loving the woman who had cheated on him, but that''s what love does.

    It makes people crazy.

    ********

    Wearing a tight ck pencil shirt that reached her knee, and a white long sleeve blouse. Yan Mei paired it with a six-inched stiletto that showed off her legs.

    "Sorry I''mte," she dered in fluent English as she entered the boardroom.

    "Feng Mei?"

    She heard someone call out from the other side of the room and she immediately turned towards the source.

    Her eyes met a deep-set of chocte eyes that were filled with different emotions. Shock, relief, guilt and happiness. The man had a strong jawline and high cheekbone that went perfectly with his dark brown hair.

    Yan Mei stood paralyzed staring at the handsome man in front of her. Her deadpan expression gave nothing away but her shaking hand that was clutching her purse betrayed her inner turmoil. She watched him as he got up from his chair and walked towards her.

    Yan Mei was brought out of her stupor when she felt him pull her into his arms. Hugging her tightly as if he was afraid that she would disappear.

    "I¡­ can''t¡­. believe it''s really you! God, I hope this isn''t a dream," he said as he started muttering incoherent words.

    Yan Mei heard gasps from people around her, it was then that realization hit her.

    She was standing in a boardroom hugging someone. She immediately pulled back, making the man lose his bnce.

    The man''s eyes went wide when Yan Mei pulled back from him. He was about to pull her back when he heard his father''s cold voice behind him.

    "What do you think you''re doing hugging Miss Yan?"

    He felt like someone had poured a bucket of cold water on him!

    "Miss Yan," he queried.

    She was the famous irondy of the business world? But how could she look exactly like Feng Mei?

    He blinked several times hoping he was hallucinating but the woman was still in front of him¡ªlooking at him with an indifferent face.

    "I''m sorry, Miss Yan. Forgive my son. He just came from abroad¡ª"

    "Let''s start the meeting."

    Yan Mei coldly interrupted him then she sat on her chair, wanting the meeting to begin ASAP.

    Throughout the meeting, she could feel the man''s intense gaze on her but she ignored him. Inwardly rolling her eyes.

    ''How can she meet this guy?''

    The moment the meeting ended, the man had almost chased her, ignoring the weird stares he was receiving.

    Throughout the meeting, she had avoided his gaze. He could see the difference in her. The woman in front of him was so different from the Feng Mei he knew but at the same time, looked like her.

    His father had tried to convince him that she wasn''t Feng Mei but she was the young miss of the Yan family, Yan Mei. The CEO of number one jewelrypany in City S.

    The woman looked like the confident and witty version of Feng Mei. The Feng Mei he knew was shy and innocent.

    But the cold and aloof face of this woman was the typical CEO look. The dangerous aura surrounding her made him began to doubt if she was really Feng Mei.

    But why did she look so much like Feng Mei? Why did she speak like her?

    Yan Mei breathed a sigh of relief once she got out of the building.

    She never thought she would be meeting someone from her past soon. In order to avoid any confrontation with the man, she quickly got into her car and left.

    Oblivious to Yan Mei, the moment she left, Wang Lu''s car stopped at the ce her car was previously parked.

 Chapter 58 Vixen

    <h4>Chapter 58 Vixen</h4>

    Ying Sheng yawned for the nth time as she scanned the ballroom with a bored expression on a face. She had to admit the room was big and beautiful. Crystal chandeliers spiraled down from the white ceiling, the floors were made with white marble tiles whichplimented the glimmering golden walls of the hotel.

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes when she saw those spoiled heiresses staring at her with hate and contempt. She had never gotten along with them since they were kids. They were too fake and scheming for her liking. Ying Sheng smirked when she noticed them looking at her dress with envy, showing a scowl on their faces.

    Ying Sheng had to admit she looked beautiful tonight thanks to her mother. She was wearing a ck evening gown covered with ckce. The dress featured one, solid ck, long close-fitting sleeve which hide her big snake tattoo while the other side was off shoulder, Grecian style.

    A long slit appeared in front of one side of the gown which she paired it with ck stiletto heels that showed off her beautiful long legs. Her long, red hair was curled and was waving down to her waist. Her makeup was dark and sultry with a dark red lipstick, which made her look sexy and alluring with a mysterious aura surrounding her.

    She gave the men who were checking her out a sultry wink with a seductive smile on her face. She took a sip of her wine and ignored the deadly res the women were giving her as shezily scanned the room in hopes that she would see her cousin, Lei Zhao.

    Then her eyes mmed into a pair of shimmering amber eyes.

    Liam Xia looked at the woman standing at the corner of the room with a ss of wine in her hands with a bored look on her face and gulped. She was clearly a vixen. This are the types of girls he had to stay away from, but there was something about her that pulled him to her.

    Her emotions were not easily hidden on her face. Her boredom was evident in the crease of her lovely brows and down-curve of her full lips. She looked like she wanted be anywhere but here at the moment.

    Her bright brown eyes gazed at him. Her crescent shaped eyebrows inclined slightly when she saw him staring at her. He slowed the lump in his throat.

    A smug grin appeared on her face as a mischievous glint shed through her eyes. Liam Xia immediately looked at the ground and tried to calm down his beating heart.

    He was about to look up when he saw a pair of ck stiletto step in front of his view. He swallowed nervously and looked up to find her standing in front of him.

    "Why were you checking me out," she queried bluntly with amusementced in her voice.

    Liam blushed as he bit his lips nervously.

    "I-I-sorry."

    Ying Sheng gave him a lopsided grin,

    "It''s okay, I''m Ying Sheng. What''s your name?"

    Liam Xia widened his eyes in shock. Was she introducing herself to him? He was the kind of boy that girls like to avoid.

    He was aplete nerd who didn''t know how to flirt. He usually ys games and rarely attend parties. He spent most of his time with his books, that''s why he was able to get a PhD at the age of eighteen.

    "I''m Liam," he said, licking his lips nervously as he introduced himself.

    He blushed when he saw her staring at his lip with an intense gaze. Ying Sheng walked closer to him and whispered huskily in his ear.

    "I loved how your face turns red, knowing it is me affecting you."

    His breath hitched and he blushed profusely. Liam took a step back, making the girl in front of him throw her head back in a fit ofughter when she saw his whole face red.

    "Cute," she teased, swirling her ss then took a sip of her wine. "So, Liam. How old are you?"

    He felt a surge of desire overwhelm him when he heard her mention his name. He even wondered how she would sound moaning, saying his name.

    Liam widened his eyes by his dirty thoughts. He never had such thoughts about a woman before! As a virgin at the age of twenty-three, he had never had dirty thoughts about a woman before¡­ until today.

    "I''m twenty-three," he mumbled, shaking himself from his own thoughts.

    Hearing this, she looked at him sipping her wine. "I like older men but I guess I can make an exception, Liam."

    He choked on his fruit juice, not expecting this kind of remark from the girl he is conversing with.

    "W-what," he asked feeling heat rise within his cheeks.

    "I said I can make an exception for you, cutie," she said teasingly, stepping closer to him, her free hand touching the man''s shoulder. "Do you have a girlfriend," she asked as she batted hershes yfully.

    "No," he said quickly as if he was afraid that she would misunderstand.

    "Good," shemented, beaming with a smile on her face. "You look so innocent and pure¡­ that I want to taint to you," she added, running her index finger across his chest.

    Liam blushed.

    "People a-are staring," he whispered, feeling conscious and at the same time nervous.

    Ying Sheng licked her lips and stepped away.

    "Do you want us to go to a ce where no one would see us," she asked as she grinned, making the man blush harder. Any second, he might look like a tomato!

    He cleared his throat awkwardly. He was still having it difficult to believe that she was actually talking to him. This bold and confident woman who didn''t care about anybody''s opinion was actually talking to him.

    He knew she was bad and dangerous for him. He needed a girl who was shy and humble like him¡­ not someone who looks like she wanted to devour him in front of these people.

    Not like he would mind, though. He was sure that as long as shemanded him to do something, he would do it in a blink of an eye.

    ''God! What was wrong with me,'' he shivered at his thought then she faced the woman beside him to answer her. "N-no," he said regretfully as he took a step back.

    She grinned, actually finding his reaction cute. "Don''t worry¡­ I can make you scream yes if you want." Liam eyes widened when he heard her. "Rx¡­.I''m just joking," she said, throwing a subtle wink at him.

    He gulped. "I-I¡­"

    He waspletely speechless. Not because of what she said, but because of the rush of adrenaline course through him as he imagined her actually letting him scream yes.

    He just met this girl a few minutes ago and she was already corrupting his innocent mind!

    She shook her head, "You''re really cute." Liam blushed and bit his lips. "Don''t do that," she said sternly, seeing his gesture as somewhat seductive.

    "Why," Liam asked, wonder etched in his voice.

    "Because seeing you bite that lips¡­ makes me want to do bad things to you. I want to handcuff you to a bed and fuck you until you can''t even remember the day you were born," she said bluntly, the man taken aback.

    "Y-You can''t be blunt like that," he remarked gently with heat rising to his cheeks. Seeing this, a smug grin spread across her face.

    "I can, cutie. All you have to do is ask," she whispered against his ear, mirth gleaming in her eyes. "It was nice to meet you, cutie¡­ but I have to go. Prepare yourself to be seduced by me the next time we meet," she bid him farewell then she winked at him. She nted a soft kiss on his cheek then left.

    Realizing that he is now alone, he felt his face burn with heat when he saw people were staring at him. Noticing that she was really gone, he sighed then thought to himself.

    ''She was truly a vixen.''

 Chapter 59 Gala(1)

    <h4>Chapter 59 G(1)</h4>

    *Join our discord to see Yan Mei''s look since my description is meh~ hihihi

    https://discord.gg/FXdVxp6*

    Lei Zhao tapped his foot as he waited patiently for Yan Mei. His wife wasn''t someone who took long when she was dressing, so he was quite surprised that she still hasn''te down yet.

    After a few more minutes, he heard the clicking of heels against the flooring from the stairs. He turned towards the stairs and froze as soon as he saw Yan Mei. He stood up with his mouth slightly opened and his eyes widened.

    He just couldn''t take his eyes from her as she walked down the stairs slowly and gracefully. She was wearing a tight-fitting red elbow-length sleeved cheongsam gown, with a mandarin cor that entuated all her curves in the right ces with a slit up the side, showing her leg all the way to her mid-thigh.

    She had paired her dress with a gold stiletto and a gold clutch purse design with a floral crystal brooch. Her long ck hair was pulled into a chignon with bangs and a longer side-strands. Her face was contoured, and she had a dark smokey eye with red lipstick.

    Overall, she looked simple yet elegant.

    Yan Mei saw Lei Zhao, and her breath got caught in her throat.

    This man was truly handsome with those bewitching eyes of his. His hair was fluffed up at the front. He was wearing a mandarin cor suit that fit him perfectly. He looked gorgeous in the suit. Yan Mei had to hold unto the railings as she walked down because she felt her legs weaken at the sight of him.

    When she reached down the stairs, he pulled her into his arms and stared into her eyes for a couple of seconds.

    "God! you are the most beautiful person I have ever seen. I don''t want you to go to the g because other men would stare at you." Lei Zhao furrowed his brows and his lips set into a hard grim.

    Yan Mei chuckled when she heard him.

    "Well, but I''m all yours. Am I not?"

    Lei Zhao''s lips stretched into a smile as he traced a finger on her right cheek.

    "Yeah. All mine," he said with a grin on his face.

    "Good. Now kiss me," Yan Mei hoarsely whispered.

    Lei Zhao''s grin broadened into a smile before crushing his lips into hers. His lips were warm and soft. They parted slightly, allowing her to slide her tongue inside. Yan Mei felt butterflies in her stomach. There was no denying that she felt something for Lei Zhao. Ever since he kissed her for the first time. But she was too afraid to admit it.

    She was scared that if she had feelings for someone else, it would end up the same way it ended with Wang Lu. She felt once she got attached to someone; the person leaves her, so she was scared.

    But now, she knew she had to let go of everything and move on. Even though the memories will forever remain a scar in her heart.

    She raised her hands and wrapped it around his neck as his grip around her waist tightened.

    "I love you," Lei Zhao whispered after a soft kiss, followed immediately by a stronger kiss.

    Yan Mei''s heart skittered when she heard him. She didn''t know why but every time he said those three-letter words she felt content.

    They pulled apart after a few minutes, panting. Lei Zhao''s eyes zed with desire as he whispered huskily in her ears.

    "I can''t wait for the night to end so I can slowly remove this dress from your body."

    Yan Mei''sshes fluttered as her knees wobbled from the desire that spread through her. She looked up at him and saw him staring at her with his imprable eyes.

    Yan Mei awkwardly cleared her throat and turned her head to the side, avoiding his eyes.

    "We should get going. We are alreadyte."

    Lei Zhao nodded and took her hand, leading her out of the living room.

    --------

    Their car pulled up at the hotel where the g event was taking ce. It was the fanciest hotel in City S owned by the Li family.

    They got out of the car and walked to the entrance after Lei Zhao said a quick goodbye to their driver and told him he would call him once they were ready to leave.

    Since they got therete, the event had already started and much to their relief; the paparazzi had already left. Lei Zhao didn''t want their rtionship to be in the public eye since they just started. Lei Zhao always had been a low-key person.

    Once they entered the double doors of the ballroom where the event was being held, everyone stopped what they were doing and stared at Lei Zhao and Yan Mei.

    Lei Zhao tucked Yan Mei''s hand in the crook of his arm and started walking into the crowd. As they walked, people were staring at them while whispering. Yan Mei raised her chin as she walked confidently with an aloof face. Her cold aura didn''t make people dare to look at her in the eyes. Lei Zhao noticed the man looking at her lustfully, and he felt the urge to poke their eyes out.

    Lei Zhao bent his head low to whisper beside her ear, "You''re too damn beautiful. I had to re at half of the men here because they were checking my wife out."

    Yan Mei shivered from the thread of possession in his tone.

    "If you haven''t noticed, half of the women here are looking at you with lust and want," Yan Mei mumbled with deep venom in her voice.

    She knew Lei Zhao was undeniably handsome, and it was normal for women to get attracted to him but she still couldn''t control the pang of jealousy she felt.

    "It seems we are both possessive, huh?" Lei Zhao chuckled.

    "I can''t help it. I don''t like sharing what''s mine," Yan Mei whispered.

    Lei Zhao looked at her in the eyes and he saw her eyes zing with jealousy even though her deadpan face was expressionless.

    They continued looking at each other''s eyes with neither breaking eye contact until a soft voice called out Lei Zhao.

    They both turned to look towards the direction of the voice.

    "Lei Zhao!"

    A woman squealed as she ran into Lei Zhao''s arms.

 Chapter 60 gala (2)

    <h4>Chapter 60 g (2)</h4>

    Yan Mei looked at the woman hugging Lei Zhao and her brows bumped together in a scowl.

    "Pumpkin? What are you doing here? I missed you so much," Lei Zhao said excitedly.

    "I missed you too," she said releasing Lei Zhao from the hug.

    Yan Mei narrowed her eyes as she stared at the woman. Yan Mei didn''t know who the woman was but she had to admit she was stunning, even though she wasn''t worth being a rival, she didn''t like others touching what was hers.

    "Who are you," she queried coldly.

    "Oh, I''m so sorry. I just got excited seeing Lei Zhao. I''m Ying Sheng," Ying Sheng said with a smile, offering her hand to her.

    Yan Mei nced at her stretched hand and ignored her. Ying Sheng arched a sly brow and retreated her stretched hand with a shrug. Lei Zhao cleared his throat and wrapped his hands around Yan Mei''s waist pulling her closer to him.

    "Wifey, this is Ying Sheng. My cousin. We are really close that''s why she hugged me. Don''t get angry, okay," Lei Zhao murmured softly.

    Ying Sheng raised her brows when she heard Lei Zhao softly exining to Yan Mei as if he was afraid that she would misunderstand. It seems her cousin-inw has her cousin wrapped around her fingers.

    Yan Mei stared at him for a few seconds without saying anything.

    "Okay, what about I let you be on top tonight," Lei Zhao whispered in her ears.

    Yan Mei''s eyes shed and turned to look at Ying Sheng.

    She nodded politely at her, "Hello."

    Ying Sheng beamed when she heard Yan Mei greeting her. She had heard her cousin-inw was an aloof person so she didn''t really care about her ignoring her earlier.

    "I have heard so much about you! You''re more beautiful in person," Ying Sheng squealed excitedly.

    Yan Mei narrowed her eyes as she wasn''t expecting Ying Sheng to talk to her excitedly after the way she treated her.

    She looked at Ying Sheng''s eyes and saw her eyes glistening with admiration.

    ''This girl is really interesting,'' Yan Mei thought as she offered a slight smile to Ying Sheng,

    "Thank you," Yan Mei replied.

    Lei Zhao shook his head when he saw Ying Sheng trying hard to please someone for the first time.

    "Pumpkin, are you trying to please my wife," Lei Zhao asked with his voiceced with amusement.

    "Huh? No-no, it''s just that cousin-inw is really cool," Ying Sheng quickly retorted.

    "Cool? That is the first time someone has called you that, Wifey," Lei Zhao said as he chortled when he saw the horrified look on his wife''s face.

    Yan Mei was used to being called cold, indifferent, and beautiful¡­ that Ying Sheng''s answer just caught her off guard. It was an interesting change from the usual.

    "You think I''m cool, why," Yan Mei queried with a creased brow.

    Ying Sheng licked her lips,

    "Well, you have this cold aura around you that makes it difficult for people to approach you. You''re confident, beautiful, strong, and independent. Also, you''ve cousin wrapped around your fingers," Ying Sheng said throwing a subtle wink at Yan Mei at the same time.

    Yan Mei chuckled, "I like you. You''re really blunt."

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes when she heard Yan Mei, "Good! We should hang out sometime."

    Yan Mei saw the gigantic smile on her face and the pleading and hopefulness in her eyes. It seems she was Lei Zhao''s favorite cousin, too, so she didn''t have the heart to turn her down.

    Yan Mei nodded, "Alright."

    Ying Sheng smiled heartily and turned to look at Lei Zhao.

    "I have to leave before my dad starts introducing every bachelor in this room to me," Ying Sheng gritted her teeth.

    Lei Zhao threw his head back andughed.

    "Don''t tell me that uncle wants you to get married to get rid of you."

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes,

    "Yeah, he thinks marrying me off would make me be a properdy."

    Lei Zhao shook his head. He is the only one who knew why Ying Sheng turned out this way so he perfectly understood his cousin''s behavior.

    "Call meter. We have a lot to talk about," Lei Zhao said with a gleam in his eyes as he smiled softly at her.

    Ying Sheng stiffened and nodded,

    "Cousin-inw it was nice to meet you!"

    Yan Mei nodded.

    Once Ying Sheng left, Yan Mei turned to look at Lei Zhao.

    "Remember your promise," she mumbled.

    "I''m a man of my words," Lei Zhao said with a smirk and twinkle in his eyes.

    Before Yan Mei can retort, she saw Lei Zhao''s mom walking towards them.

    Lei Xiao Tong pulled Yan Mei into a hug once she reached them. Lei Xiao Tong pulled away before Yan Mei could hug her back but her hands were still holding unto either side of her arms. Lei Xiao Tong had a huge smile stered on her face.

    "XiaoMei, how are you?"

    Yan Mei smiled, "I''m good mom. How are you?"

    "I''m good. Let me introduce you to the rest of the family."

    After making their rounds of meeting Lei Zhao''s family and introducing Lei Zhao to her uncle, Yan Mei excused herself to the washroom.

    Yan Mei stood in front of the sink, washing her hands. She heard the toilet flush, then one of the bathroom doors opened and a woman wearing a white v-neck evening gown came to stand at the next sink beside Yan Mei washing her hand.

    "Do you think he really loves you," she queried turning to look at Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei stopped washing her hands and turned to look at the woman. The woman looked a little familiar but she couldn''t remember where she knew her.

    "You know you can''t ever rece his ex. He is just ying with you. Once shees back, he would dump you."

    Yan Mei chuckled, "Why are you telling me this?"

    Tang Wei furrowed her brows.

    "Because I don''t want you to get hurt," she said feigning concern.

    "Miss¡­"

    "Tang," Tang Wei replied.

    Yan Mei nodded, "Miss Tang, do you know the ratio of men to woman in this world?"

    Tang Wei creased her brows and shook her head.

    "Do you know how hard it is to meet someone at the age of thirty who has never been in a rtionship," Yan Mei asked crossing her arms across her chest.

    Tang Wei swallowed.

    ''Howe this woman doesn''t follow the script? Shouldn''t she be angry or jealous?''

    Tang Wei bit her lips and nced away.

    "Haven''t you heard the famous quote?"

    Yan Mei smirked with a gleam of deviltry in her eyes. Seeing this, Tang Wei''s lips screwed into a grimace.

    "Everyone is somebody''s ex. Like you said she is his ex, I''m Mrs. Lei now. Why should I be afraid of a mere ex?" Yan Mei snorted.

    Tang Wei''s lips primed.

    "I just wanted to inform you."

    "Thank you for telling me." Yan Mei nodded. "Now, if you would excuse me, my husband is waiting for me," Yan Mei added with a fake smile stered on her face.

    Tang Wei clenched her fists as she red at Yan Mei''s back. Just as Yan Mei was about to open the door she stopped and spoke with a disinterested, monotonous voice.

    "Nothing cane between my husband and I. If anybody tries to separate us, I would destroy the person even if I have to use myst breath."

 Chapter 61 Gala (3)

    <h4>Chapter 61 G (3)</h4>

    When Yan Mei came back from the washroom, Lei Zhao was nowhere to be found. She scanned the room but she couldn''t find him. A line etched between her brows. Just then someone tapped at her shoulders.

    "Mdy, would you give me the honor of dancing with you?"

    Lei Zhao bowed and held out his hand out like a gentleman smirking when she looked at him in surprise.

    The shock quickly dispersed and Yan Mei chuckled. Nodding, she slipped her hands unto his. They made their way to the huge dance floor in the middle of the ballroom.

    People made room for them, as they walked towards the middle of the dance floor. Lei Zhao pulled her closer, her body molding into his as if they were made for each other as he ced his hands on her waist. Yan Mei smiled and wrapped her hands around his neck.

    Uncontroble feelings surged through Yan Mei''s body as she looked up into his eyes and their gazes locked¡ªlooking lovely in each other''s eyes.

    Yan Mei tilted her head when she felt Lei Zhao''s finger graze against her cheeks as the song began.

    The rhythm of their bodies danced slowly to the music. As their bodies molded together, he could feel the beat of her heart¡ªher soft breath on his neck.

    He twirled her around, dipping her as he leaned forward closer to her. Staring at the beauty in front of him, Lei Zhao''s breathing became shallow and his heart suddenly felt heavy in his heart.

    "You''re so beautiful," Lei Zhao murmured suddenly.

    Lei Zhao''s eyes raked over her face and he pressed his lips on her forehead making her smile joyfully when she saw the look of pure happiness in his eyes.

    Yan Mei set her head on his shoulder. Nothing else seemed to matter at that moment. Yan Mei decided to let go of her pain, sorrow, and worries.

    She was in the arms of her husband and that''s what mattered. A soft smile tugged at the corners of her lips.

    Suddenly, they heard loud pping around them.

    Yan Mei noticed the music had already stopped and they also noticed there was a spotlight on them.

    While they were dancing, everyone had stopped to watch them in awe as they sway to the music. They could see how much the couple seempletely taken with each other.

    Lei Zhao cupped Yan Mei''s face in his hand, then spoke.

    "You know, Wifey¡­ having you in my arms is the best feeling in the world but I think having you on top of me tonight would be my new addiction," Lei Zhao purred looking in her eyes.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes but a smile shed in her eyes. Oblivious to Yan Mei and Lei Zhao they hadn''t noticed the person ring at them as they danced.

    Wang Lu.

    *****

    Wang Lu walked towards the ballroom with a scowl on his face. Since he came to City S, his fianc¨¦e hadn''t stopped calling him.

    She was starting to get on his nerves. He heaved a sigh as he walked to towards the crowd. He searched for Mr. Li and saw the man talking to some business partners. He made his way towards the man.

    After greeting some business partners and talking to Mr. Li, Wang Lu made his way to the bar. He has always hated these asions.

    With a ss of whiskey in his hands, he looked around the room and noticed that many women were gazing at him with hunger in their eyes. He frowned at them and ignored them, taking a sip of his whiskey.

    Then his eyes fell on her. The woman in red. She was beautiful with her white skin, her high cheekbones, her full lips, and those striking eyes.

    He felt his heart beating erratically in his chest as he looked down into her eyes. His breath hitched. Downing the rest of his drink, he mmed the ss cup on the bar counter startling the bartender.

    Without thinking, he found himself weaving through the crowds of people making his way towards her.

    He couldn''t help the feeling of anticipation and nervousness coursing through him at the thought that she must be his Meimei.

    Wang Lu saw that she was looking around the room for someone.

    ''Who?''

    Her chin was held up confidently like a queen. Then he saw a man tapping on her shoulder from behind.

    He clenched his fists. He didn''t like other men touching what was his. Wang Lu stopped walking when he saw a smile on her face as she slipped her hand into the man''s hand.

    The man led her to the dance floor and pulled her closer to him. He could see the love in the man''s eyes as he gazed at her.

    ''Who was he?''

    He watched as his Meimei looked at the man with affection glimmering in her eyes. He felt his stomach drop and his vision blurred. He felt angry, sad, and confused.

    Why was his Meimei in another man''s arms? Why does she have that smitten look on her face, staring at another man?

    Wang Lu hadpletely forgotten that he had kicked her out of his house five years ago. He had forgotten that he had seen her cheating on him with his best friend.

    All he felt was possessiveness and jealousy.

    Yes, he was jealous! His Meimei can only be his.

 Chapter 62 Gala(4)

    <h4>Chapter 62 G(4)</h4>

    Anger and possessiveness surged through Wang Lu as he walked towards Yan Mei and Lei Zhao. Just as he was about to reached them a figure blocked his view. Wang Lu stopped and looked up at the person. Wang Lu growled in anger.

    "Leng Shao." He coldly spat the name he hasn''t uttered for five years.

    Leng Shao smirked and swirled his ss of wine, "I know you hate me for whatever stupid reason. But for the sake of being old friends I have to stop you from doing something you would regretter."

    A confused frown marred on Wang Lu''s forehead. "What are you talking about?" He seethed.

    "I know you think she is Feng Mei, but she isn''t. Her name is Yan Mei and that man is her husband."

    A boiling fury swelled inside Wang Lu and his muscle grew tense when he heard, "her husband."

    ''How can she get married?''

    Leng Shao heaved a sigh, "I know it''s hard to ept but that woman isn''t someone who you can afford to mess with. Look at her, Feng Mei was shy and innocent but look at this woman. She is theplete opposite. She is dangerous, aloof and the CEO of a multibillion-dorpany."

    Wang Lu clenched his fists so hard, his nails cut into his skin.

    "Why should I believe you?"

    Leng Shao chortled humorlessly when he heard him.

    "Yeah, why should you believe your best friend who slept with your wife, and is telling you someone who looks like your ex-wife isn''t her?"

    Leng Shao gulped down his drink and walked closer to Wang Lu.

    "One day, I''m going to prove to you that I never slept with your wife and everything was fabricated. Then you would live with the regret of losing your best friend and wife due to your stupid ego."

    Leng Shao murmured with a sinister smile on his face, then he left Wang Lu there fuming.

    Irritation surged up inside Wang Lu, taking a deep breath he raked his fingers through his hair. As if debating on what to do next.Wang Lu''s gunmetal eyes looked at the woman glowing in another man''s hand, and a look of great bitterness swept across his face.

    He decided to investigate the woman before rushing to confront her. He knew deep down she was his Meimei. Even though she had changed her name and her temperament he knew those eyes of hers which has been haunting him for years can never be changed.

    Leng Shao looked at the back of Wang Lu leaving the ballroom and an unknown glint passed through his eyes.Heaving a sigh, he turned to look at the woman who was oblivious to everything happening around her. After the meeting with Yan Mei, he had investigated this mysterious woman who looked like Feng Mei but he didn''t find anything that would satisfy him.But he wouldn''t give up, he knew deep down it was Feng Mei.

    Years of quietly observing the woman you secretly love makes you notice all the little details about her. The least thing he could for her is to prevent Wang Lu from destroying her happy moment.

    LengShao knew Wang Lu would never make a scene once he gets to know that, the woman isn''t his Meimei that''s why he stopped him from approaching her by building doubts in his heart. He could see she was happy with that guy.

    Looking at the soft smile tugged at the corners of her lips, Leng Shao half smiled. His smile congealed into sadness when he remembered thest time he spoke to his best friend.

    *FLASHBACK*

    Wang Lu sat on the floor of his bedroom with his back against his bed, draping his elbows loosely over his knees he stared hard at the wall. Bottles of whiskeyid down around him.He chugged down on thest bottle of whiskey while reminiscing the happy moments with her.

    He remembered the first time he met her. He smiled seeing the memory of her. He looked at the spot and could actually see her with her brows hunched together scolding him for drinking. She was adorable.Wang Lu squeezed his eyes shut tight as if that would remove the memory out of his mind.

    He opened his eyes and she was gone. Wang Lu let out a loud growl of annoyance when he tried to take a sip of his whiskey and realized the bottle was empty.

    "Where the F**K is my whiskey!" The housekeeper who was standing at the door trembled, his master''s voice was so loud, so thunderous that he couldn''t help but be afraid. He hurriedly went to fetch another bottle for him.Wang Lu who was agitated from theck of his whiskey threw the bottle at the wall and it struck the wall shattering forcefully.

    Suddenly his bedroom door mmed opened. Wang Lu''s face contorted with anger from the disturbance.

    "Leave!" he roared at the person who came in without looking at the person.

    Leng Shao''s pulse raced and he breathed heavily, his muscles grew tense and he cracked his knuckles yelling directly at Wang Lu.

    "How could you kick your wife out on the streets when you know she has no one in this world!"

    Wang Luzily tilted his head an a fit of maniacalughter jolted through him.

    "Well-well it''s my best friend¡­.." Wang Lu trailed off.

    A frown marred on Leng Shao''s face as he stared at Wang Lu. He could barely recognize the man sitting on the floor with his disheveled hair and glossy eyes.

    "Are you here to defend the slut you have been sleeping with?" Wang Lu continued with a bored, monotonous voice.Leng Shao could almost feel his blood boiling in his veins when heard Wang Lu.

    "What?" Leng Shao queried with his hands shaking.

    "Why you think I would never found out that you have been screwing that whor-"

    Wang Lu couldn''tplete his sentence as Leng Shao grabbed him by his cor, pulled him from the floor and swung a fist in his face.Wang Lu stumbled back and erupted a crazed, intermittentugh.

    "You think I don''t know that you love my wife! I have seen the way you look at her. Finally, you have her. You have won Mr. Leng. Congrattions."

    Leng Shao grabbed Wang Lu''s cor and knee up to hit him in the stomach."How can you insult your wife like this! Yes, I love her but I would never sleep with her. You''ve no idea how much she loves you!"Leng Shao yelled, shoving back Wang Lu who stumbled on his feet.

    "Love?" Wang Lu snorted."Did she realize she loves me after taking shelter at your house, why you can''t provide for her?"

    "She is not at my ce!"

    "Oh, is that so?" Wang Lu mockingly retorted.

    Leng Shao run a frustrated hand through his hair. He knew once Wang Lu makes up his mind no one can change it. He haspletely lost it!

    "You''re going to regret this Wang Lu, by the time you realize what you''ve lost, it would be toote to rectify the damage."

    Wang Lu hissed, "says the guy who fell in love with his best friend''s wife."

    Leng Shao took a step back, his face contorted into a deep scowl of frustration. His only mistake was to fall in love with his best friend''s wife. He thought he had hidden his feelings well clearly, he hadn''t.

    If he knew his love would cost her happiness he would have stayed away. He thought as long as she was happy, he didn''t mind loving her from far but fate had to messed things up!Leng Shao balled his fingers to a fist and drove them through the wall, then he mmed the door behind him.

    He had to find Feng Mei, before anything bad happens to her.'' It''s been three days since she left where would he even start from?'' He thought as he rubbed the nape of his neck.

    He really hopes he is notte because he will never forgive himself if something happens to her. He had to find her and find her soon.

    Feng Mei.....where are you?

    A/n thank you for reading my book up to here. Please lemme know what you think so far. It really means a lot to me.

    Lots of love.

 Chapter 63 Breathtaking

    <h4>Chapter 63 Breathtaking</h4>

    Disimer: Sexual content ahead read at your own risk

    Once the fundraising ended, Yan Mei and Lei Zhao said their goodbyes to his parents and left the venue without waiting for the party to end.

    Twenty minutester they arrived at their apartment. Lei Zhao exited the car offering his hand to help Yan Mei out. Yan Mei stumbled with her heels and fell into his warm hard chest.

    Lei Zhao caught her around her shoulders bncing her upright. Brushing a curl away from her face Lei Zhao leaned in and pressed a kiss on her forehead.

    "Sorry." Yan Mei murmured.

    Lei Zhao chuckled. "Wifey, I didn''t know you''re in a hurry." He said winking at her.

    A confusion frowned marred on Yan Mei''s face, "In a hurry for what?" She queried.

    "To be on top of mine." Lei Zhao whispered softly in her ears.

    His words awakened something deep in her core. She flushed and pushed him away. Lei Zhaoughed when he saw the blushed on her face. It''s been a long time since he saw his wife blushed, she looked cute.

    They walked in silence reaching the door, Lei Zhao swiftly opened the door and Yan Mei followed him inside.

    The moment she entered and closed the door, Lei Zhao mmed his soft lips over hers. Her arms wrapped around his neck, standing on the tip-off her toes.

    Lei Zhao scooped her up in bridal style.

    Yan Mei squealed in surprise. "Lei Zhao!"

    Laughing, Lei Zhao carried her without strain to their bedroom. He set her on the ground and stood behind her.

    Standing behind her, he ced his hands on her waist and gently nted a kiss on the curve where her neck meets her shoulder.

    Her flesh tingled, she could feel his breath on her neck. His hands moved up his back and pulled the zipper of her dress slowly, kissing her shoulder de.The dress fell to the floor.

    "Turn around," he purred with desireced in his voice.

    Yan Mei turned around facing him with a small blush tainting her cheeks.

    Lei Zhao gasped in appreciation. She was truly breathtaking. He removed the clip out of her hair and it fell waves over her shoulder.

    Standing in only her bra and panties, Lei Zhao let out a whistle of appreciation. Yan Mei found him ogling her body with barely concealed desire. With the lights shut off, the moonlight crept in the room keeping it fromplete darkness.

    The moon shone brightly through the windows, it beamed across her body, illuminating her features in a glow. Lei Zhao couldn''t stop looking at her.

    She looked gorgeous, her long ck hair was pouring down her back and her bright brown eyes mirrored his own reflection looking back at him. Her thick full lips begged to be kissed, her firm breast in the bra longed for the caress. The ridges of the abs on her t stomach were craving to be licked.

    He reached for her, tugging her close until she was stered against him.

    "God, you''re so beautiful." He whispered as he brushed his lips against hers. Her breath hitched as he kissed the corner of her mouth, then he began kissing and gently sucking on her chin, her moved to her neck.

    She raised her head to give him more excess to her neck. He kissed and caressed her shoulders running his hands across her stomach. He kissed his way down to her stomach, her navel and her hip bone, sending shivers along her spine.

    Suddenly Yan Mei, stiffened and took a step back. Blushing profusely, she dashed into the bathroom locking the door behind her.

    Lei Zhao furrowed his brows, "What happened?" he queried in the silent room. Running a hand through his hair he walked towards the bathroom.

    "Wifey, what''s wrong?! He banged on the door but Yan Mei was too embarrassed to speak.

    "Wifey, say something." Lei Zhao said worriedly. He thought maybe he had hurt her without realizing it.

    Yan Mei painfully clutched her abdomen, excruciating gripes assaulting her.

    "I''m fi-ne." she moaned in a weak voiceced with pain.

    "Wifey, if you don''t open the door, I will break it." Lei Zhao said anxiously. He felt his palm getting sweaty, he knew something was wrong from her voice.

    Suddenly the bathroom door opened, revealing Yan Mei''s pale face.

    "Wifey, what''s wrong?" He asked softly.

    Yan Mei blushed, looking at her toes.

    "I¡ªI''m ok-"

    A sudden pull inside her gut interrupted her. She held tightly at his suit. Lei Zhao was startled by the sudden change in her behavior. He looked at his painful expression and gentle held her shoulder.

    She slowly looked up at him and saw him gazing at her with a worried expression.

    Yan Mei squeezed a soft smile at him,

    "Don''t worry, it just cramps. Slight pain in my abdomen."

    "How can I not worry when you''re in pain? I can see its not a slight pain. Tell me what to do to ease the pain."

    Lei Zhao spoke his voiceced with worry.

    He was in pain seeing her like this, he knew his wife was a strong woman. For her expression to be contorted with pain, it shows how much pain she was in.

    Yan Mei''s eyes welled up, hearing him. Maybe it was because her emotions were in a mess that''s why she wanted to cry but for the past five years she had to suffer alone. She had always felt immense pain during this time of the month.

    "Thank you." Lei Zhao nodded and rubbed her back gently.

    "Silly don''t thank me. I would prepare a hot bath for you first. Wait."

    Yan Mei nodded weakly.

    ~TEN MINUTES LATER~

    Yan Mei finished taking the bath, when she came to the bathroom she saw Lei Zhao waiting for her on the bed.

    Heaving a sigh, he beckoned at her.

    "Come here." Yan Mei walked towards him.

    "Sit."

    Once she sat on the bed, he helped her blow her hair. Yan Mei closed her eyes as his warm hands raked through her hair gently. She really liked the feeling of being pampered.

    After Lei Zhao was done, he picked up the painkiller and a ss of water on the bedstand and give it to her.

    "Here." Yan Mei gave him a grateful smile and took the medicine. Lei Zhao smiled at her and nted a gentle kiss on her forehead.

    cing the ss of water on the table, Lei Zhao patted the bed,

    "Let''s sleep." Yan Mei nodded andid down beside him.

    His warmth immediately hit her and she quickly snuggled up against him. She pressed her back against his front and he wrapped his arms around her stomach sending heat throughout her body.

    "Sorry." Yan Mei whispered.

    Lei Zhao chuckled, "Wifey, you owe me."

    Yan Mei blushed and nodded, she put her head on her chest. Listening to his steady heartbeat she fell asleep.

 Chapter 64 Special

    <h4>Chapter 64 Special</h4>

    Yan Mei stretched and opened her eyes. She saw Lei Zhao sitting in arge chair reading the newspaper. She wondered how long he had been sitting there watching her while pretending to read the paper.

    A soft smile tugged at the corners of her lips and she pulled the sheets over her head coly. She knew she looked like a total mess but knowing Lei Zhao, he probably didn''t care about how she looked.

    Lei Zhao hadn''t read a single word, for the past one hour he had been staring at her sleep. She was beautiful lying there. He felt satisfied to see her rxed and not suffering from any pain. She was snoring as she slept, he couldn''t wait to teased her about it.

    He stood up from his chair and walked towards her. He ced a kissed on the sheet covering her forehead. He pulled down her sheets to reveal sleepy eyes.

    "How are you feeling?"

    Yan Mei smiled softly, "I''m good."

    Lei Zhao nodded; climbed into the bed and put his arms around her. Yan Mei felt safe in his arms.

    They stayed in each other''s arms enjoying the feeling of being closed until Yan Mei''s stomach rumbled.

    Lei Zhao chuckled, "are you hungry?"

    Yan Mei blushed and nodded.

    Lei Zhao ruffled her hair and got up from the bed.

    "I will go prepare you breakfast."

    "Okay."

    A few minutes after Lei Zhao left, a sharp pain hit Yan Mei in her stomach. Yan Mei pulled the nkets around her tightly, trying to warm up, while every muscle in her body was protesting with every movement.

    She pulled her knee up closer to her chin and started rocking her body slightly. The pain in her stomach was unbearable.

    Yan Mei closed her eyes and concentrated on feeling better. She hated this time of the month it made her feel vulnerable and she didn''t like feeling that way.

    The pain in her stomach worsened.

    "Oh." She moaned weakly. Clutching her stomach. She jumped out of the bed and dashed into the bathroom, reaching the toilet just in time. When she finished, she sat weakly on the cold floor, unable to stand up.

    Lei Zhao came in twenty minutester holding a tray containing breakfast. His narrowed his eyes when he didn''t see Yan Mei.

    "Wifey?" he called out but no one answered.

    He ced the tray on a table and walked towards the bathroom, when he reached there, he saw the door was opened with a shaking Yan Mei sitting on the floor.

    "Wifey!" he squealed as he hurriedly scooped her in his arms carrying her bridal style. He gently ced her on the bed and covered her with a nket.

    Lei Zhao brows snapped together as he stared at her pale face. He knew it was normal to have pains during this time of the month for a woman but his wife''s condition seemed to be worse.

    Raking his fingers through his hair, he picked his phone and dialed a number while keeping his eyes on Yan Mei who was moaning in pain.

    "Hello?" A hoarse voice sounded on the other side of the phone.

    Heaving a sigh of relief, "Grandpa Jun, it''s Lei Zhao. Please are you avable?" Lei Zhao said politely.

    Grandpa Jun was the famous Chinese medicine practitioner in city S. He was really lowkey and rarely appeared in the public''s eyes. Fortunately, he was a family friend and one of Lei Zhao''s best friends, Jun Mo''s grandfather

    "Oh it''s Little Zhao, what can grandpa do for you?" The old man asked.

    "My wife is not feeling well, please can youe and take a look at her?" Lei Zhao queried anxiously.

    "Alright send me an address. I will be there in half an hour."

    "Okay, thank you." Lei Zhao said hanging up the call.

    Lei Zhao climbed in the bed, pulled her nket up and took a pillow and put it on hisps.

    "Come here." He said.

    Yan Meiid her head down on hisps, and he covered her with the nket.

    "Do you want to eat?" Yan Mei shook her head weakly.

    Lei Zhao nodded in understanding and rubbed her arms.

    "Just rx, I have called someone to check on you." He said rubbing her stomach.

    Yan Mei started having trouble keeping her eyes opened, soon she fell asleep.

    Lei Zhao picked her up and cradled her in his arms while she slept.

    - FORTY-FIVE MINUTES LATER-

    Grandpa Jun hunched his brows examining Yan Mei. Heaving a sigh, he beckoned at Lei Zhao to follow him in order not to wake Yan Mei up.

    "Grandpa, what''s wrong with her?" Lei Zhao asked worriedly.

    "Did your wife have an ident or miscarriage?" Grandpa Jun asked after a few seconds of silent.

    Lei Zhao froze and nodded, "Yes, she did."

    Stroking his beard, he fell into a deep thought.

    "I''m sorry Little Zhao, but it would be difficult for your wife to get pregnant."

    Lei Zhao felt a heavy feeling in his stomach.

    "Even if she did, her body can''t take the stress. Her body had suffered too much from the ident."

    Lei Zhao swallowed the lump in his throat.

    "Is there something you can do?"

    Grandpa Jun smiled," of course, I''m not given the god doctor without a reason."

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh of relief and wiped the sweat on his forehead.

    "Tell me, where did you find that girl? She is definitely not an ordinary person."

    Grandpa Jun asked with his voiceced with curiosity. He has never met anybody with such a special body constitution like her.

    Lei Zhao rubbed the nape of his neck, "She is from the Yan family."

    Grandpa Jun raised his brows but just nodded.

    "I will send you some medicine. Make sure she drinks it every morning. I wille back three monthster to check on her."

    "Thank you. What about her stomach pain?" Lei Zhao asked.

    "Don''t worry. She would be fine once she wakes up. Like I said your wife is really special."

    Grandpa Jun said patting Lei Zhao on the shoulder.

    After Lei Zhao sent him out, he came back to the bedroom and saw Yan Mei still sleeping.

    He sat beside her and held her hand falling into a deep thought.

 Chapter 65 Cheesy.

    <h4>Chapter 65 Cheesy.</h4>

    Wang Lu had never felt so desperate in his life. He felt like he was going crazy. It was already twelve in the afternoon, and he didn''t feel like eating. He had only drunk coffee since 5 am this morning.

    His thoughts were reeling about the whereabouts of Feng Mei. He leaned his back on his chair and started massaging his temples.

    He stood up and paced back and forth, raking his hair with his finger and momentarily pulling it in frustration. The moment he came homest night, he had investigated the mysterious woman who looked like his ex-wife, but the information he found was futile. There was no link between the aloof woman and his wife.

    ''Did she have a twin sister he didn''t know about?'' Wang Lu thought as he clucked his tongue, exasperated.

    All these years, he had never thought about finding her because he assumed she was living with Leng Shao abroad, but the investigation he didst night shows that Leng Shao was alone in the states, and Feng Mei never met him after he threw her out.

    ''So, where was she?'' it''s like she had disappeared from the surface of the earth. His special forces in the dark couldn''t even find her. Wang Lu was freaking out. Even though he hated her for cheating on her with his best friend, he didn''t want any terrible thing to happen to her.

    He remembers swearing on her parents'' grave to protect her. After seeing that woman who looked like Feng Mei in another man''s arms, he realized he has never stopped loving her. He wouldn''t be able to forgive himself if something bad happened to her. Unbeknownst to Wang Lu, it was already toote. The damage had already been done.

    *****

    Yan Mei woke up a few hourster; she stretched and furrowed her brows when she didn''t find Lei Zhao beside her. She got up and walked towards the bathroom to freshen up.

    Once she was done, she put on afy pant and t-shirt and ran barefooted downstairs.

    Her brows knitted together in a scowl when she didn''t see Lei Zhao in the living room. She sighed in disappointment.

    Just as she was about to go back to the room, the smell of food drifted into her nose. Her stomach rumbled, and she made her way to the kitchen.

    The moment she reached the kitchen, she saw Lei Zhao wearing an apron. His brows were scrunched up in a scowl as he stirred something. Yan Mei''s eyes shed with a smile; he looked so divine that she couldn''t seem to take her eyes from him.

    "Are you done staring at your handsome husband?" Lei Zhao''s scowl morphed into a slight smile as he turned to look at her and strode firmly towards her.

    He picked her up; she wrapped her legs around his waist and her hands around his neck, giggling.

    Lei Zhao grinned roguishly, "I missed you." He murmured against her lips. Yan Mei felt her heartbeat rapidly.

    "We just saw each other this morning, and I was just sleeping." She said, and he let out a soft chuckle.

    "I know, but I really do. I felt lonely waiting for you to wake up." He purred, giving her a lopsided grin, causing her heart to skip a beat for a second.

    "Is it a crime to miss my wife?" Lei Zhao teased, with his eyes dancing with mirth.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes, "When did you know I was standing here?"

    Lei Zhao printed a kiss in on her forehead, "The moment you got here."

    Yan Mei raised her brows, "really?"

    Lei Zhao nodded, "the moment you are closer to me, my heart beats erratically."

    Yan Mei snorted, "Cheesy."

    Lei Zhao feigned a hurtful expression,

    "Wifey, you don''t believe me?"

    Yan Mei unknowingly curled her lips, pouting.

    "Why do you call me, Wifey, Yan Mei arched her brows, she had always wanted to ask this question

    Lei Zhao walked towards the kitchen counter, ced her gently on it, and stepped close between her knees, and pulled her forward towards him.

    "Because you''re my wife. Wifey is an endearment." Lei Zhao mumbled, pinching her nose.

    ??There are so many endearments, pumpkin, flower, kitten, red, stars, Lolita, bunny, why not one of these endearments instead of the cheesy wifey?"

    Lei Zhao frowned, "but Wifey is an exclusive endearment anybody can be called pumpkin, flower or red, but they might not get the Wifey endearment. Do you get what I''m trying to say?"

    Yan Mei nodded with a soft smile on her face and kissed Lei Zhao on the cheeks.

    "Hubby, I''m hungry," Lei Zhao stiffened when he heard her soft voice calling him hubby.

    He felt itchy in his heart, "Wifey, what did you call me?"

    Yan Mei feigned ignorance and raised her brows, "I didn''t call you anything."

    "Really?" Lei Zhao probed with a mischievous glint passing through his eyes.

    He dug his fingers into Yan Mei''s side, which made her explode withughter. She was extremely ticklish.

    "Hahahaa-st-op, hahaha."

    "Tell me what you called me, so I would stop." Yan Mei shook her head as she burst into a fit ofughter.

    Lei Zhao continued his assault until she couldn''t take it anymore.

    "Hahaha-haha okay, okay. You win!"

    Lei Zhao smirked, "You''re giving up so easily?"

    Yan Mei red at him, "Shut up."

    Lei Zhao chortled and released her.

    "Hubby, I''m hungry!" Yan Meiined, wrapping her hands around his neck.

    Lei Zhao''s eyes glowed with affection, and he kissed her forehead, "Go and sit at the dining table. I will bring you lunch." He said, ruffling her hair.

    "Aye, aye, Chef." Yan Mei teased him.

    Lei Zhao shook his head helplessly; he had never seen this side of his wife before. It seems they have made big progress seeing that she is showing a different side to him instead of her aloof self.

    He guessed this childish side is the real her. Lei Zhao grinned, knowing that eventually, his wife would fall madly in love with him too.

 Chapter 66 Sharing

    <h4>Chapter 66 Sharing</h4>

    Lei Zhao served the food and Yan Mei kept looking at the food with a smile on her face. Seeing the smile on her face, Lei Zhao felt happy. Pulling a chair, he sat beside her filling her te with steamed buns.

    Yan Mei stared at the food with anticipation, she never thought he would cook steamed buns for her. It was one of her favorite food.

    Lei Zhao smiled softly when he saw her staring at the buns like it''s the most precious thing in the world.

    He picked one, blew it for a couple of seconds because it was hot and send it to her mouth.

    Yan Mei raised her brows, ncing at the buns she looked up at him.

    "Don''t tell me you''re nning on feeding me." Lei Zhao grinned boyishly and nodded.

    "Why do you have a problem with your husband feeding you?" Lei Zhao teased.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes as she opened her mouth, taking the steamed buns he was offering to her.

    The moment she bit into, she closed her eyes as she devoured the taste of the buns. It was nothing like she has tasted before. ''Maybe it''s because it was prepared with love''. A faint blush made its way unto her cheeks.

    "Is it delicious?" Lei Zhao asked with nervousness evident in his voice.

    Yan Mei opened her eyes and nodded conceding the point.

    "Yes, it''s very delicious. Hubby, you''re a very good cook!"

    Lei Zhaoughed boisterously when he heard his wife praise for his cooking skills.

    "I know, I''m good at whatever I do." Lei Zhao said shrugging.

    Yan Mei shook her head.

    "Not everything, you''re stillcking in certain things."

    Lei Zhao squinted his eyes with a gleam in his eyes, "Oh, really?"

    Yan Mei nodded with mirth dancing in her eyes.

    Lei Zhao hunched his eyebrows. ''What was hecking in?''

    "What? so that I can work hard to improve."

    Yan Mei looked at her face and her eyes traveled between his eyes.

    "You should know yourself where you''recking.??

    Lei Zhao followed her eyes and saw her staring between his legs with her eyes flickering with an unknown emotion.

    Lei Zhao blushed for the first time and cleared his throat awkwardly.

    "You¡­." He trailed off without knowing what to say.

    "Are you trying to say I''m bad in bed?" Lei Zhao queried.

    Yan Mei raised her brows feigning innocent.

    "When did I say that?"

    Lei Zhao scratched the back of his neck, avoiding her eyes.

    "But you were looking between my legs I thought you were referring to that."

    Yan Mei looked at his face contorted with awkwardness and burst into a fit ofughter.

    "Hubby, you have to be confident in yourself and skills"

    Lei Zhao red at her when he realized he has been yed by her.

    Shaking his head helplessly, he picked another bun and blew on it feeding it to her.

    *******

    "Thank you, the food was delicious," Yan Mei tittered.

    "Good that you like it." Lei Zhao said patting her head gently.

    Yan Mei pouted, "I''m not a kid! You''re destroying my cold and aloof image."

    Lei Zhaoughed when he heard her.

    "Sorry, president Yan, you''re too cute. I can''t help myself."

    Yan Mei widened her eyes in horror.

    "Cute?"

    Lei Zhao nodded with a grin stered on his face.

    Yan Mei was stunned when she heard him. Her cheeks began to flushed in embarrassment. She hadpletely forgotten to hide her childish side. She mes Lei Zhao for making her toofortable with him. Now he finds her "cute"! She snorted in annoyance, ignoring him.

    They both finished their meal and Lei Zhao raised from his chair, taking the dishes to the kitchen. Yan Mei offered to help him but he refused. Saying something about not letting her touch cold water.

    Lei Zhao was busy there while she ate the fruit sd, he prepared for her. When Lei Zhao looked at her eating the fruits, he shouted at her,

    "Wifey, don''t eat all of it. Leave me some!"

    Yan Mei chuckled at him, arching her brows.

    "What if I say no?" She tested him.

    "Then¡­." Lei Zhao walked to her to snatch it from her but she ran to the living room with the bowl containing the dessert.

    "Wifey." Lei Zhao called out as he made his way to the living room.

    He saw her with a smirk on her face.

    Ssh-.." She hushed him by putting a finger on his lips.

    "I have a better way of sharing it." Lei Zhao froze when she took a strawberry and bite into it. She then tip-toed and brought it to his lips.

    Lei Zhao stared at her but he pulled her closer, cupped the back of her head, and took her mouth in a kiss. His tongue dipped inside of her mouth tasting the sweet juice of the strawberry in her mouth.

    Yan Mei moaned, "God, you taste so good."

    Lei Zhao growled as he pulled away from her.

    She took grape this time and pulled his head for another passionate kiss. They both finished the fruit sd together like this and in the end, Yan Mei gripped his cheeks gently and moved him closer to her.

    "As I said, there is a better way of sharing."

 Chapter 67 Tame

    <h4>Chapter 67 Tame</h4>

    Ying Sheng''s lips pursed like she''d been chewing a lemon rind. Taping her feet, she sat therezily, showing no interest in what the man was saying. She was on a date with a man whose name she doesn''t even remember. Was it Eros, Efren, or Ed? She had no idea. He was busily ranting about how sessful he was at twenty-five. As if his money would let her throw herself at him.

    Ying Sheng had to admit he was handsome with his tousled dark brown hair, which is thick and lustrous. His face was sharp and defined; his eyes were dark brown. He was the typical Casanova whom girls threw themselves at. Unfortunately, she wasn''t part of those girls.

    Ying Sheng winced, remembering how her mother had dressed her up for this date. She was wearing a ck-white patchworkce off shoulder long sleeve dress, which reached below her knees. Her long red hair was pulled up in a ponytail with light make-up. She looked like the typical good housewife now.

    ''When will this torture end?'' Ying Sheng inwardly sigh. Her father had set-up this date since she ran away from the party before he could introduce her to the young master of the Xia family. Unfortunately, the young master of the Xia family had taken a liking to another woman at the party, so they had to cancel the arranged marriage with her. When she heard this, she was ted, but her father had to destroy her mood by informing her he had arranged another marriage.

    She realized the man hadn''t taken his eyes off her the entire time. His persistent stare made her ufortable. She stifled the urge to punch the man in the face as she maintained the fake smile stered on her face.

    "Once we get married, I will turn you into a good submissive wife. I have heard about how wild you''re. It would be fun taming you tigress."

    The man''s disgusting voice snapped Ying Sheng out of her stupor. She arched her brows.

    ''Did he just say he would tame her?'' Ying Sheng''s eyes gleamed with amusement. She had no idea how the conversation came to this, but it seems she was about to have some fun.

    Picking up the ss of wine on the table, shezily swirled it and grinned roguishly.

    "Oh-and how are you nning on taming me?" She inquired.

    "Why don''t you let me show?" The man said, winking at her.

    Ying Sheng scoffed, "You think someone like you can tame me?"

    The man snaked his tongue out and licked his lips, "of course, bitches like you always y hard to get, but I know you would beg me once I''m done with you."

    Ying Sheng threw a head back andughed when she heard him. ''He just called her a bitch.''

    A gleam of deviltry passed through her eyes; herugh congealed into a sinister smile.

    "You think a worthless promiscuous man who probably has STDs from sleeping around can tame me?" Ying Sheng snorted. Taking a sip of her wine, she looked at the man with disgust flickering in her eyes.

    The man''s body stiffened at the remark. Anger thrummed through the man''s veins as his fury sprang to life.

    "What did you just say slut?" The man bellowed.

    Ying Shengzily nced at him and sneered, "Why, you have a problem with your ears?" She queried with a sarcasmced in her tone.

    The man angrily stood up and swung his hand at her.

    "Don''t think because I''m a woman, you can bully me. Ying Sheng scoffed." Her hand gripped the man''s arms before his pnded on her face. She twisted his hands behind his back.

    The man wailed as waves of pain rolled through his hand. Ying Sheng pushed him aside, making him fall on his bottom. His face flushed with anger and humiliation.

    Fortunately, there was no one in the box with them, or he would have died of mortification.

    He stared at the woman who waszily sipping her wine; his eyes narrowed, and his teeth clenched together.

    "You will pay for this!" He seethed.

    Ying Sheng briefly nced at him and stood up. She slowly strode towards him with an evil smirk.

    The man shivered and cowered away from her.

    "W-hat do you want to do?" he asked.

    The man really regrets if he knew Ying Sheng was ruthless, like the rumors he would have nevere on this date.

    He asked his father to arrange a marriage with her because he had a bet with his friends; whoever gets to marry the infamous bad girl in the high society win.

    Ying Sheng crossed her arms around her chest and stared at him, "You know thest person who called me a bitch lost five of his fingers mysteriously in his sleep." She exined as if discussing the weather.

    "You didn''t just call me a bitch; you called me a slut too. How interesting." Ying Sheng chortled with an edge in her tone. Her eyes shed with anger.

    "I really hate it when people call me a slut." She sneered and stepped on the man''s thigh with her heel.

    "Aaah-you..you will pay for this!"

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes, "Are you still threatening me? I wonder what my father would do if he finds out you molested his precious daughter?"

    Erin Qin widened his eyes in fear. Even though his family was wealthy, they couldn''tpare to the Ying family. If news gets out that he molested the young Miss of the Ying family, it would ruin his family. ''Why didn''t he think about this before?''

    "What do you want?" Erin Qin swallowed the lump in his throat and asked.

    Ying Sheng removed her heel from his thighs, and a smile etched back on her face.

    "First, an apology. Second, you would call this arranged marriage off. Tell my father we are notpatible or your ex-girlfriend came back. I don''t care. As long as you take the initiative to cancel this arranged marriage."

    Erin Qin nodded. "Okay."

    "I hope Mr¡­."

    "Qin."

    Ying Sheng nodded, "I hope Mr. Qin would keep his promise. You know I don''t really care about my reputation. I can do whatever I want."

    Erin Qin nodded hastily.

    "Good." Ying Sheng picked up her purse and walked out of the restaurant''s private box without looking back. She really hated these spoiled rich kids.

 Chapter 68 Whipped

    <h4>Chapter 68 Whipped</h4>

    Liam Xia looked at the woman in front of him. She was wearing a sexy study schoolgirl costume which had a white tie front crop top with a ruffle trim which exposed the top of her breast and red id high waisted skirt with attached suspenders; pairing it with a white knee-high socks and sexy red high heel which showed off her great thighs and legs.

    Her red hair which was long, loose curls cascaded down her shoulders and back. Her bow-shaped lips were painted in bright red lipstick which gave her an alluring smile, she smelt ofvender.

    Liam Xia could feel sweats beading on his forehead. His heart pounded and he felt butterflies in his stomach.

    The woman unbuttoned his shirt pulling it out of ck and ran her fingers across his chest. Letting out a hiss, the woman whispered in his ears.

    "What do you want, Cutie?"

    Liam Xia swallowed the lumped in his throat.

    "I-I wan-t you." He responded with nervousness evident in his voice.

    A seductive grin appeared on the woman''s face.

    "What do you want me to do?" She demanded with her voice thick with desire.

    Liam Xia looked at his feet and licked his lips.

    "Look at me, Cutie. Tell me what you want me to do."

    "I-I want you to tie me on the bed and-- f*ck--- me until I forget the day I was born."

    She yed with his down lip with her thumb.

    "So Cutie, wants to be fuck roughly?"

    Liam Xia blushed profusely at her words and froze.

    "Tell me honestly. Have you fantasize about me f*cking you?"

    Liam Xia flushed not knowing what to say and nodded.

    The woman chuckled when she saw him blushing.

    "God, you''re cute." She said as she continued to touch his chest, idly circling his left nipple with one fingernail. She teased his nipples and smiled at the low moansing out from him as a reaction.

    "Do you like it when I touch you, Cutie?" She purred sexily.

    "Y-Yes."

    Smiling, she leaned forward to kiss him. Just as her lips were about to touch his. He felt someone shaking him.

    "Liam! Liam wake up." The annoyed voice sounded which made him hunched his brows in agitation.

    "Liam! Dude what are you dreaming about?" The voice said with amusementced in his voice.

    Suddenly, Liam Xia felt water pouring on his face.

    "WHAT THE HELL!" He yelled as he abruptly woke up. He saw his brother standing there with a huge grin on his face.

    "I''m going to kill you!" Liam Xia roared.

    His brotherughed boisterously and jolted out of his room before he could get up from the bed.

    Running a frustrated hand through his hair he got up and made his way to the bathroom.

    Liam Xia stopped in front of a mirror and stared at his reflection in the mirror. As he stared, he remembered the red haired who has been haunting him in his dreams for days now.

    Grunting frustratedly, he bit his lips and found his dick rock-hard. He knew ever since he met her; his body was craving for her.

    It was so frustrating! A few days ago, he was just a nerd focusing on developing a new game but now his mind was filled with dirty fantasies of a certain red-haired. Heaving a sigh, he went to take a cold shower.

    ****

    After taking the shower, Liam Xia came downstairs to eat breakfast. He sat on the chair scooping the eggs unto his fork. His mother stared at him with her brows arched. She realized her son has been behaving weirdly ever since they came back from the g.

    "Bro, you look like you''re in love." Liam Xia''s twin brother''s voice snapped him out of stupor.

    He red at his brother with an annoyed look stered on his face. His brother was the exact opposite of him. While he was shy and tried not to get into trouble, his brother was the typical troublemaker. He got into fights and slept around.

    "Shut up." He snapped at his brother.

    His mother chuckled, "So who is the girl, Liam?"

    Liam blushed and shook his head.

    "No one mom." He mumbled.

    His brother snorted. "It''s that red haired he was talking to at the party. The infamous Miss Ying."

    His mother furrowed her brows. She knew the young Miss of the Ying family was bad news. She was afraid she would hurt her son.

    "Son¡­."

    "I know mom. She is the type of girl I should avoid." Liam interrupted his mother.

    Heaving a sigh, Mrs. Xia held her son''s hand on the table with a soft smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

    "No, I''m just afraid that you would get hurt. If you like her, I don''t really mind. Just be careful."

    Liam Xia widened his eyes. He never expected his mother to say this.

    "Really mom?"

    Mrs. Xia nodded.

    "Yes, her father arranged marriage for her with your cousin but your cousin met his ex-finance whom he still loves at the party so he declined the marriage."

    Liam Xia eyes shed with happiness when he heard his mother. Fortunately, she didn''t get married with his cousin or he wouldn''t know what he would do.

    "See, I told you he is in love with that woman. You''re whipped bro." Lucas Xia taunted his brother with a smirk on his face.

 Chapter 69 Monster

    <h4>Chapter 69 Monster</h4>

    Disimer: Trigger warning; self-harm and suicide.

    Ying Sheng satfortably on the balcony and held a cigarette between her fingers. She puffed on it like a pro. She felt awfully lonely.

    Night was always the worst time of the day for her. A hellish kind of istion where only herpany was cigarettes, her de and a bottle of beer which she hides to drink.

    Her loneliness was growing steadily everyday dominating her emotions. She knew it was her fault, she had chosen this path.

    Ying Sheng felt empty inside, as if no one cares about her. Nobody truly understands the fears and deepest thoughts that tug at her heart. She tried so hard to connect to people but it was draining her. The more she tried to connect with them, the lonelier she felt.

    Ying Sheng had so many thoughts in her mind, so many emotions, but no one to share to. Because she knew nobody wanted to be friends with the weird kid who was slowly drowning in her emotions.

    Ying Sheng had to work hard to get them to like her, in order to get the bit of love she had been craving for. The love her parents were too busy to provide for her since she was a kid.

    She had to always put on a smile while her inside was screaming for her help. So, she stopped trying, she realized there were so many fake people in the world who wouldn''t blink an eye as they schemed against their loved ones without any remorse. Proving her point that love doesn''t exist, it existed only in novels and fairytales.

    She realized if she wanted to survive in this high society then she had to strong so that no one can hurt her. After all she had no one but herself. So, she became the monster, parents told their kids to run away from.

    But she was far from a monster, she was just a lonely girl who wanted a friend who would always be there for her, who would check up on her and ask her how she was. Someone whom she could share what she saw that night with. The night that finally broke her and made her who she is now.

    Her cousins and brother were always there for her, but still she felt something was missing; she couldn''t tell anybody or she would be lonelier. So, as a kid she did what she thought was best for everyone. She carried the burden alone in order to make everyone happy but while she was doing that, she was slowly killing herself.

    That''s why her des were her best friend, as crazy as it may sound. The only time she feels alive is when she takes the de in her right hand and draws it across her inner thigh where no one would notice. She would smile when she watches as the blood starts to flow.

    She cuts her self everyday but not too deeply. Just enough to leave marks on her inner thigh which may resemble scratches made by a cat. That''s way she preferred wearing her jeans and pants, so that no one would notice. Because she wouldn''t have the answers to the questions they would ask. Why would a normal person harm herself?

    She tried to stop one day but realized she couldn''t. Like a drug, she had be addicted to inflicting self-harm on herself. As they say, physical pain is better than emotional and psychological pain. She was a mess, a monster whom nobody loves. Unbeknownst to her there was a man who was having sleepless nights because of her.

    Heaving a sigh, she took another long puff of her cigarettes and blew it out slowly. Soon she heard someone knocking on her door.

    She dubbed the cigarette straw into the dustbin and went to open the door; her father walked in.

    "Mr. Qin said you guys weren''tpatible. You''re too good for him¡­." Mr.Ying started, closing the door behind him and sat on the corner of the bed.

    "That''s the first time someone has called you good." He chuckled.

    Ying Sheng shrugged.

    Sighing, Mr. Ying shook his head, "I''m here to talk, you know?"

    Ying Sheng darted her eyes across the room.

    "I know.. I might not have been the best dad when you were growing up but I''m trying. I don''t want you to waste your life. I want you to be happy."

    Ying Sheng cross her arms around her chest and didn''t say anything.

    Pursing his lips together, he stood up from the bed.

    "Make sure you hide your stuffs well from your mother."

    And he was gone, giving her a smile and closing the door behind him.

    Ying Sheng felt her a pang in her chest.

    ********

    Ying Sheng felt so empty inside and she hated the feeling.

    "You''re a mess Ying Sheng." She grunted to herself and chugged down the beer in the bottle she was holding. She sighed deeply as she felt a tear dropped from her eyes.

    "No, No I can''t cry. Bad girls don''t cry. Monsters aren''t allowed to show weakness." She yelled in the quiet alley.

    She was tired from putting on a strong fa?ade. She chuckled humorlessly.

    How nice it would be if she just dropped dead. Then she wouldn''t have to harbor the secrets that were sinking her.

    With that thoughts in her mind, she walked aimlessly and went to stand in the middle of the road.

    A horn beeped loudly, a car light illuminated on her face but all she did was closed her eyes with a smile on her lips and waited for all of it to be over.

    The car, however halted a foot away from Ying Sheng. She knitted her brows in a frown and opened her eyes when the pain never came.

    The light was blinding so she couldn''t see the man who got down from the car. She was hit suddenly by a sharp pain in her head making her dizzy. It was the beer finally catching up to her.

    The man took a few steps forward towards her, she tilted her head to the side confused.

    Thest thing she remember before cking out was the man had a look of relief on his face. ''He was relief she was alive?''

    Author''s note.

    Please there is no way I''m saying self-harm is good or promoting it.

    If you''ve suicide thoughts or the urge to harm yourself see a doctor.

    Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of.

    If you want someone to vent to I''m always here to listen. @Chichii#4496 on discord.

    Loves and hugs.

 Chapter 70 Mine

    <h4>Chapter 70 Mine</h4>

    The moment Liam Xia, stopped the car in front of the house. He rushed to the passenger''s side; opening the door, he slowly picked Ying Sheng in his arms as if he was afraid, he was going to hurt her. He ran to the house and brought her into his room. Heid her down on the king-sized bed.

    Fortunately, his parents were on a business trip and his brother was probably partying out somewhere. It was just left with the servants in the house. He could see the butler''s curious gaze when he brought her in but he ignored him.

    Liam, went to the bathroom to find a towel to clean the mascara that had smeared on her cheeks due to her tears. He stared at her eyes which were closed; the long eyshes were wet from tears. He felt a pang in his heart.

    The sound of the butler knocking on the door snapped him out of his stupor.

    "Young Master, the doctor is here." Liam stood up from the corner of the bed to wee the doctor.

    "Liam, what is the emergency?" The white-haired doctor asked as he nced at Ying Sheng who was unconscious on the bed.

    "I was driving, then out of nowhere I saw her standing in the middle of the road. Fortunately, I was able to stop the car just a foot away from her. When I got down to check if she was okay; she suddenly copsed. "

    Liam Xia said as he ran his hand through his hair. He was trying to calm down but he knew he could never get the picture of him nearly hitting her with his car out of his mind. He nearly killed the woman he has been having sleepless nights about.

    "Don''t worry. I will take care of everything." The doctor said softly. He has been the family doctor for years, even before Liam was born. So, Liam was like a son to him. He still remembers his panicked voice when he called him.

    Liam nodded and left the room. He stood behind the door and waited patiently. He tapped his foot as he fell in deep thought.

    Frustration, along with fear rushed through his veins. Ten minutes seemed like forever for Liam. Just as he was about to open the door to check if the doctor was done; the knob of the door shuffled and the elderly doctor came out.

    "How is she?" Liam asked which desperation evident in his voice. He has never cared about a woman apart from his sister, mother, and cousins before. But now he was going crazy with the fear of losing a girl he had just met a few days ago.

    "There is nothing to worry about, Liam. She just had a lot to drink and she seemed to be stressed out that''s why she fainted. She would wake up in the morning."

    Relief flooded through Liam''s body, "Thank you."

    After sending the doctor out, Liam opened the room. He nced at Ying Sheng who wasying in his bed. He had envisioned several scenarios, where she was in his bed; but never like this. He stared at her as she slept underneath his covers. The white pillows and white bedsheet brought out her features making her looked serene.

    Brushing a hand over her forehead, he walked to the bathroom to wash his face. He looked at himself in the mirror and her empty eyes shed before his eyes.

    ''Why did she have such a look in her eyes; why was she drunk standing in the middle of the road at 2 am?'' Liam had many questions but no one to give him the answers. Shaking himself out of his thoughts, he waked out of the bedroom.

    Pulling a chair beside the bed, he sat down next to Ying Sheng as she slept. He took one of her hands in his. He had no idea what was going on with him. There was something about her that pulled him to her. Something about her made him want to make her his.

    *******

    Ying Sheng woke up with a sharp pain in her head. Was she in hell? She thought as she looked around her surroundings. She scrunched her brows together when she realized she was in an unfamiliar room and she was sure this ce was definitely not hell.

    Her eyes fell on the man who was dozing on the chair beside her. Then she screamed

    "Aahhhh!!" Liam jumped out of his chair and onto his bed, putting both of his hands on her shoulders and lifting her chin up. Her eyes met his but the glow and mischievousness that once used to live within the brown orbs were gone.

    "Ying Sheng, Ying Sheng what happened? Why are you screaming?" Liam asked, his voiceced with concern.

    Ying Sheng pushed him away, her eyes zing with anger.

    "Why didn''t you hit me with the car?! Why did you save me?!" She demanded angrily.

    "I was finally ready---" Before she could evenplete her sentence Liam lifted her off the bed and into his arms. Pressing her into his chest. He rubbed her back yet tenderly.

    He didn''t know what to say tofort her, but he knew he had to. He tangled his fingers through her hair and yed with it. She was shivering. He pulled the nket and covered her body as sheid in hisp. Ying Sheng immediately melted into his embrace, she couldn''t help but feel safe in this position. A feeling she had been craving for years as she wondered lonely in this world. Slowly her emotions subsided and she fell asleep.

    *****

    "Friends?" Ying Sheng looked at Liam in shock. Did she just hear him asking her to be his friend?" Once she woke up in the morning, she demanded him to take her home.

    So here they were, sitting in his car parked a few blocks away from her house. She was afraid he would ask questions but he just pretended nothing had happened; she was grateful for this.

    She wasn''t ready to answer any questions. She wanted to go home, take a shower and sleep. Now he was asking her to be his friend.

    "Friend." Liam mumbled.

    "Why do you want to be friends with me?" she whispered.

    Disappointment shed through his eyes. "So-you''re saying no?"

    "Ah? No-no it just it''s been a long since somebody has asked me to friends." Ying Sheng said with a sad smile.

    Noticing the hint of pain in her eyes, Liam decided not to push it.

    Taking a deep breath, "No. I don''t want to be your friend." Ying Sheng said.

    "Oh," Liam muttered lowly.

    "If we are friends, I can''t seduce you, Cutie. Remember you''re mine. Especially now that I''m still alive because of you."

    Liam widened his eyes and blushed. A smile lingering on his lips

 Chapter 71 Grandchildren

    <h4>Chapter 71 Grandchildren</h4>

    Days passed by quickly. Because Lei Zhao was worried about Yan Mei getting sick, he prevented her from going to work so she could only work from home. It was Sunday morning and Yan Mei had just finished getting ready for brunch with Oldman Lei. Wearing a casual floral round neckline maxi A-line dress, pairing it up with a nude, high heeled pumps madefortable by a two-inch tform. She looked simple yet refined.

    While standing in the mirror, Lei Zhao came to stand behind her and hugged her. He rested his chin on her shoulders as he stared at her through the mirror.

    "Wifey, you look beautiful." Yan Mei smiled and met his eyes in the mirror.

    "You too." Amusement flickered in Lei Zhao''s eyes. Yan Mei grumbled after realizing what she had said.

    "I mean you look handsome, but you probably already know this right?" Lei Zhao pressed his lips against her neck and nuzzled. Warmth blossomed inside Yan Mei.

    "I do, but it''s aplimenting from my wife which I have never gotten so yeah it means a lot to me." Turning her around to face him, he firmly pulled her close to him and brushed his lips against hers.

    Staring into her eyes, he softly kissed her, his tongue swept between her lips as he pressed his soft lips to hers. He deepened the kiss as he kissed her passionately. Yan Mei''s hand went around his back and cupped the back of his head.

    "It''s left with two days." He whispered. Yan Mei let out a shallow hum as a response. Lei Zhao kissed his way down to her neck as his hand cupped her breast.

    "We really should get going, or I have to take a cold shower." He muttered huskily; pulling away from her.

    A faint blushed pinked her cheek.

    "Okay, let''s go."

    ******

    In the old house of Lei family, Yan Mei and Grandpa Lei yed chess after they finished eating. After taking instructions from Oldman Lei, Yan Mei''s chess skills improved in the span of an hour. Her chess skills were on par with Oldman Lei and she even won a few times.

    Oldman Lei was shocked, but thinking about the abnormal memory of his eldest daughter-inw; Lei Zhao''s mother, he thought it was normal. He was really fortunate to get geniuses as daughters-inw.

    Lei Zhao who had been ignored by his wife over an hour since she started ying chess with his grandfather had a sullen mood. If he knew his wife was going to ignore him over a piece of chess he would have never brought her here.

    "Grandpa aren''t you tired?" Lei Zhao questioned with irritation evident in his voice.

    Oldman Lei who was currently losing the game ignored Lei Zhao as he focused on the chessboard.

    "Grandpa are you sure you want to pick that one?" Yan Mei smiled.

    Oldman Lei realized he has lost the game andughed heartily. He was really satisfied with this granddaughter of his. She was very clever and has a dangerous aura that made her unique. Her character was really interesting.

    "Grandpa, I''m sorry but I won this round. " Yan Mei said with a soft smile tugging on her lips. Although the Old man had a scary face he was a very warm person. He reminded Yan Mei of her own grandfather so she really got along with him.

    "Grandpa-" Lei Zhao who was about toin felt his phone ranging. Groaning he picked it up and left Yan Mei and Oldman Lei alone since it was an emergency business call.

    "I would have loved to see you and Lei Zhao engaged first but if sh marriage is what you both want, I have no problem with it." Oldman Lei said once Lei Zhao left.

    Yan Mei''s heart squeezed with guilt.

    "It''s hard to exin why we got married so fast but it''s already done and I''m trying my best to be a good wife."

    Oldman Lei nced at Yan Mei with a warm smile, his eyes glistening with a knowing light.

    "Little Zhao has always had a way with a women so I''m not surprised at how quickly you agreed to this. I''m happy everything is working out for you."

    Yan Mei nodded, "Yeah, the constant bickering for upper-hand keeps us on our toes."

    The old man chuckled. "I''m d. I know you''re domineering and Little Zhao can also be domineering when he wants things to be done. He needs someone who can challenge him once in a while."

    Yan Mei felt warm inside when he saw how genuinely happy the old man was about their marriage.

    "If he bullies you, tell me I will spank him for you." The Old man grinned.

    Yan Mei threw her head back as she busted into a fit ofughter.

    "Okay."

    Lei Zhao who had just finished his call, saw his wifeughing happily with an another man and hunched his brows. He came to stand behind Yan Mei.

    "Grandpa, I have given you my wife for so long, she would apany me for a while."

    Oldman Lei felt irritation surged in his veins, he just spent a few hours with his daughter-inw, and this stinky boy was alreadyining.

    "You stinky boy, you are always with your wife. Now you won''t even allow her to spend time with this lonely man?" Old Man Lei yelled at Lei Zhao.

    "Grandpa, don''t you want to hug your grandchildren?" Lei Zhao queried with his eyes shing with a smile.

    Oldman Lei''s words were blocked when he heard Lei Zhao. This stinky kid had really caught his weakness and he even dared to threaten him. He has always wanted a grandson but unfortunately, Lei Zheng died before giving birth and Lei Zhao''s became cold to women.

    "You better give me two grandchildren before the year ends, otherwise I will skin you alive."

    Oldman Lei saw Yan Mei''s face was pale and he quickly changed the subject.

    "XiaoMei, Grandpa is tired. Go with Little Zhao and visit another day."

    Squeezing out a smile, Yan Mei nodded.

    "Okay, Grandpa."

 Chapter 72 Loversâ€™ quarrel

    <h4>Chapter 72 Lovers'' quarrel</h4>

    Once Lei Zhao And Yan Mei came back from Lei''s old house. Lei Zhao realized that his wife had been pretty distant with him. It was like she wanted to tell him something but didn''t know how to say it. Lei Zhao scrunched his brows together.

    He really hated the ambiguous atmosphere between them. Sighing, he set up the dining table and went to call Yan Mei who was having a conference meeting in the study room. When he reached the study room, he leaned against the door and gazed at her, she seemed concentrated; so she did not notice him.

    Her brows were knitted together as she listened to whatever the person was saying on theputer. She looked alluring as she exuded a domineering aura. He could bet that the executives were trembling even though they weremunicating via theputer.

    Feeling his gaze, Yan Mei raised her head and for a moment they stared at each other. She smiled radiantly up at him.

    "Have you been waiting for too long?" She beseeched softly.

    Lei Zhao smiled and shook his head.

    Yan Mei nodded and turned to look at herputer.

    "Meeting adjourned." She stated as she shut down theputer.

    The executives on the other side couldn''t believe that they just saw their cold and aloof boss smiling. She looked so beautiful that they felt their heart beating in their chest. But the ultimate question was who was the person she was talking to so softly? Was their irondy finally in love?

    The executives had many questions but unfortunately, no one was avable to answer their questions.

    Yan Mei who had no idea of the chaos she has caused because of her smile stood up and followed Lei Zhao in the dining hall.

    Lei Zhao pulled a chair of her; Yan Mei offered a small smile as she sat down. Lei Zhao removed the bones in the fish before serving her. Yan Mei looked at the food and felt tears welled in her eyes.

    ''Will he leave me once he knows the truth?'' Yan Mei thought as she stared at Lei Zhao who was busily removing the bones from the fish.

    Yan Mei stood up abruptly from the chair she was sitting on which cause Lei Zhao to look up.

    "Wifey, what is wrong?" Lei Zhao asked with concernced in his voice.

    Yan Mei avoided his eyes; a shadow of guilt darkened her eyes.

    "I-I-I have lost my appetite. I want -to go -the bathroom." Because of her guilt, her words were incoherent and her palms were mmy.

    Lei Zhao squinted his eyes before he could respond Yan Mei dashed out of the dining hall. Yan Mei knew what she did would make him worry about her but she needed space to think.

    She walked to the bathroom and stood infront of the bathroom sink mirror. Maybe she was being greedy and selfish from hiding the truth from him. She was depriving a great guy, the possibility of being a father.

    She raked a frustrated hand through her hair. Heaving a sigh, she sshed water on her face.

    "Hey." Lei Zhao said gently causing her to leap in surprise. Yan Mei turned; her heart was racing as Lei Zhao''s eyes bore into hers creating an ufortable atmosphere.

    "You scared me." Yan Mei muttered while darting her eyes.

    "What are you hiding from me?" Lei Zhao''s voice cracked out in a low yet gentle voice. Yan Mei knew he would figure out that something was going on but she really couldn''t tell him.

    "I don''t know what you''re talking about." Yan Mei said tensely.

    Lei Zhao let out a long breath, "Wifey, I need you to tell me. Please I just want to know you''re okay."

    "I''m fine! I have already told you." Yan Mei said between gritted teeth, tears blurred her vision. She could feel himing closer to her but she couldn''t look at him in the eyes.

    She saw how happy he was when he told his grandfather he would give him a grandson by the end of the year. She just didn''t know how to tell him that the possibility of being a father with her was low.

    Yan Mei didn''t know what to say or how to lie her way out of this conversation. What would he do if he finds out? She didn''t know why but she was afraid; afraid of him leaving her.

    "Please Wifey, just tell me. You can tell me anything." Lei Zhao held her shoulders gently but she pushed him away and turned to walk away but Lei Zhao took her hand and tried to stop her.

    "Just leave me alone." Yan Mei began walking away but his roaring voice stopped her.

    "All I want to know is what is wrong with my wife! Is that a sin?" Lei Zhao was frustrated and needed everything to go back to normal. They were just fine a few hours ago what happened?!

    "I-I- can we just not talk about it?" Yan Mei turned her back to him and began walking to the bedroom.

    "Wifey-"

    "Leave me alone," she said as she kept walking to the bedroom. Lei Zhao froze in his spot and let out a frustrated sigh. He ran his fingers through his hair, pacing up and down. Lei Zhao hated himself for forcing her to open up to him but he just wanted them to be the loving couple they were a few hours ago.

    ****

    Yan Mei waited for a few hours for Lei Zhao but he never came to bed; She wished she had told him. When hees she would tell him if he wants to leave-, she sighed.

    She finally drifted off to sleep a few hourster; but the noise in the kitchen woke her up.

    She furrowed her brows and came downstairs. She came to meet a drunk Lei Zhao sitting on the floor.

    "Wifey- is that you?"

    Yan Mei sighed, she has never seen Lei Zhao drunk before. She never thought her actions would hurt him.

    "Let''s go to bed." Yan Mei whispered softly.

    "No-no-no." Lei Zhao shook his head.

    "I want to talk to you." He said as he beckoned at her, patting the floor beside him.

    Yan Mei narrowed her eyes and sat beside him.

    "I''m sorry about earlier." He murmured.

    "No, I''m sorry. I shouldn''t hide anything from you."

    Lei Zhao yawned. "No, I shouldn''t have forced you to tell me. I was jus-t worried about you, Wifey."

    Yan Mei felt tears brimming in her eyes as she felt him rested his head on her shoulder. She looked at him and thought he might be sleeping but he suddenly spoke.

    "I really hate fighting with you. It makes me feel ufortable." He said with a frown marred on his face.

    Yan Mei chuckled.

    "Me too" Yan Mei whispered back.

    "I hate seeing you cry, and I hate the fact that it might be because of me. Can you promise to tell me when I wrong you so that I can apologize?"

    Yan Mei felt a pang in her heart; How can someone be so concerned about her? She felt really stupid for doubting him and thinking he would leave her.

    "I will." She mumbled.

    Lei Zhao nodded.

    "Good. You mean everything to me, Wifey. And we are going to grow old together."

    His words melted her inside and she snuggled closer to him on the floor.

 Chapter 73 Divorce

    <h4>Chapter 73 Divorce</h4>

    When Lei Zhao woke up the next morning, he had a terrible headache. Groaning he rubbed his temples and hunched his brows together as he got down from the bed. He really regrets drinkingst night.

    "Lei Zhao?" Yan Mei called him as she rubbed her sleepy eyes. She remembers that Lei Zhao had brought her to the roomst night.

    "I didn''t mean to wake you up," He said hoarsely. From his voice, Yan Mei could see he was having a hangover.

    "Are you okay?" She asked knowing very well that he wasn''t.

    Lei Zhao''s lips curved into a small smile.

    "Yeah, I''m good. I''m just going to prepare you breakfast since you''ve to go to work today." He said sounding tired.

    Yan Mei bit her lips, "I''m sorry about yesterday." She mumbled.

    Lei Zhao shook his head and squeezed between his brows.

    "No, I should be the one apologizing. It''s was immature of me toe homete and drunk. We should''ve just talked about it like mature adults. I know you don''t want to tell me what''s wrong but I hope you can tell me when you''re ready to talk about it."

    Yan Mei''s stomach churned with guilt and apprehension. ''God, why was he so understanding?''

    "I''m just going to wash my face and prepare you, breakfast, okay?"

    Yan Mei swallowed the lump in her throat, "Lei Zhao wait."

    She croaked out. Lei Zhao turned to look at her and saw her sitting up and staring at her legs.

    "What''s wrong?" Lei Zhao asked with concernced in his voice. He walked over to her and ced his hands on her shoulders.

    "Are you alright?"

    Yan Mei shook her head slowly and raised her head up, darting her eyes across the room.

    Lei Zhao sighed and pulled her into his arms hugging her tightly.

    Yan Mei closed her eyes and took a deep breath as she remembered the scars and memories of her past. She knew he needed to know the truth.

    "I''m sorry Lei Zhao; I shouldn''t have hidden the truth from you."

    "Truth?"

    "I-you remember I told you, I got hit by a car and lost my baby?" She croaked out as she blinked away the tears that were threatening to fall.

    Lei Zhao released her from his arms and raised her chin so they could be at eye level.

    "Yes, I remember."

    Yan Mei bit her lips and yed with her fingers nervously.

    "I didn''t tell you everything."

    Lei Zhao raised his brows when he heard her.

    "I didn''t just lose my baby that night I lost the possibility of being aplete woman."

    Taking a deep breath, she continued.

    "I''m sorry Lei Zhao, but the possibility of me being a mother is really low. When I woke up from mya, I realized that I had lost my child and the ability to ever be a mother. I was devastated. I couldn''t believe it. I felt like nothing, just a mere empty shell of a woman. In the blink of the eye; my life had be something I never thought it would be. " She fidgeted as she said.

    "When I woke up in the hospital after the car hit; I realized I had been in aa for three months. Fortunately , someone had taken pity on meying on the road and brought me to the hospital but the damage was ready done. My father tried to find doctors to help me but I refused the treatments. I didn''t want to get my hopes up high again."

    Lei Zhao kissed the top of her tofort her. Neither of them said a word for a couple of minutes. Yan Mei felt safe with him that she didn''t want to let go of him.

    "I know, Wifey. I found out a couple of days ago."

    Lei Zhao said as he wiped away her tears with his thumb and caressed her cheeks gently.

    "Oh- I- I- know I shouldn''t have hidden the truth from you if you want to- divorce me I- understand." Yan Mei whispered lowly as tears pricked her eyes.

    Lei Zhao furrowed his brows.

    "Why would I divorce you?" He questioned.

    Yan Mei raised her head and met his eye glistening with an unknown light.

    "Ah?" Yan Mei didn''t know what to say. She had imagined different reactions when she tells him the possibility of him being a father was low but she never thought he would be this calm.

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh, "Don''t tell me you were in a bad moodst night because you thought I would divorce you?"

    Yan Mei opened her mouth and closed it again. Embarrassed she nodded.

    Frustration crinkled his eyes, "Why would you think that?"

    "I don''t know but I thought once your family finds out; they would pressure you to leave me. They wouldn''t want a woman who can''t give birth to stay with their son. Also, you promised Grandpa to give him a grandson by the end of the year."

    "I''m I doing something wrong that? Is that why you''re insecure in this rtionship?" Lei Zhao cocked his head as he muttered. He wasn''t sure if he wanted to hear the answer but he needed to know.

    "No-No, it''s not you. It''s me. The traumatic experience I had makes me insecure about certain things. Also, I was afraid you would leave me once you know the truth. Don''t leave me, Lei Zhao"

    Yan Mei pleaded as she burst into silent tears. Lei Zhao held his arms out and pulled her in his arms again. Yan Mei clung unto him as if she was afraid he would leave.

    "I''m not going to leave you! I meant what I saidst night. I want to grow old with you." Lei Zhao spoke gently as he raked his fingers slowly in her hair.

    "When you faintedst time, I called a doctor to check up on you. He told me about your condition."

    Yan Mei stiffened.

    "I was waiting for your period to end so that, we can start treatment. Don''t worry Wifey, He promised me you would be able to get pregnant as long as you take the medicine."

    Yan Mei pulled away from him and asked excitedly, "Really?"

    Lei Zhao nodded with a soft smile tugging on his lips.

    "Yeah. Also, we can always adopt a baby if you want. I don''t care as long as you''re happy."

    A smile tugged at the corners of her lips.

    "Lei Zhao" Yan Mei called his name.

    "Hmm?"

    "Have I told you, you''re the best husband any woman could wish for?"

    Lei Zhao narrowed his eyes as if he was thinking.

    "You don''t have to tell me, I know." He said as he winked at her.

    Yan Mei pouted and rolled her eyes. "Narcissist are we?"

    Lei Zhao chuckled, "Of course."

    Yan Mei shook her head helplessly. And just like that, they were back to the sweet-loving couples they were.

    Yan Mei realized the importance ofmunication in her rtionship for the first time. If she had let her fears gotten the best part of her; she would have lost Lei Zhao by refusing to tell him the truth and let her assumptions manipte her decision.

    For the first time, she was grateful for the bad things that happened to her. If it hadn''t she wouldn''t have met Lei Zhao and found a loving family like his parents.

 Chapter 74 Dumb

    <h4>Chapter 74 Dumb</h4>

    After Yan Mei finished dressing up for work; she came downstairs

    "What are we having for breakfast?" she asked as settled herself on one of the chairs at the dining table. Lei Zhao carried the bowls over to the dining table with a smile on his face.

    "We have scrambled egg served with two slices of turkey bacon, fresh fruits, and a whole-wheat toast apanied with a ss of fresh-squeezed orange juice prepared with love." A smile emerged on Yan Mei''s face as she stared at the food.

    She moaned with delight as she tasted the food, savoring the taste with her eyes closed with a smile on her face.

    "This is really good!" Yan Mei''s eyes fluttered open as she eximed with a wide grin on her face.

    "Hubby, you should let me open a restaurant for you. Don''t worry about your sry, I''m really generous with my workers." Yan Mei said as she gulped down the orange juice.

    Lei Zhao held his face in his hands with a thoughtful look on his face as if he was contemting her offer.

    "But Wifey, I don''t want to cook for other people; I only want to spoil you with my cooking skills, others aren''t worth it!"

    Lei Zhao eximed, giving her a yful re.

    Yan Mei stared at Lei Zhao and processed his words. She could see his eyes floating with sincerity as if he was making her a promise.

    "Hmm, why didn''t I think about that?" Yan Mei tilted her head.

    Lei Zhao shook his head and patted her head gently.

    "Because you''re dumb."

    Yan Mei yfully punched his arms.

    "Ouch." Lei Zhao chuckled.

    "I''m just joking, my wife is the smartest woman in the whole wide world!" Yan Mei nodded in satisfaction at his words.

    *****

    Because Yan Mei had taken a few days off work, she came to meet a pile of paperwork waiting for her at the office. She inwardly groaned.

    "Good morning President Yan." Su Bei greeted her friend with a subtle smile on her face. She set a stack of papers on the table before standing infront of Yan Mei.

    "These are the documents you requested." Yan Mei stared at the papers nodding.

    "Morning, how are you?"

    Su Bei smiled and nodded, "I''m good. I can see marriage life is really treating you well, Boss."

    Su Bei said with amusementced in her voice. Yan Mei stopped looking through the document she was holding and raised her head to meet Su Bei''s gleaming eyes.

    "What are you trying to say?" A smug grin appeared on Su Bei''s face.

    "Can''t you see you''re glowing? Love really does wonders." She said as she burst into a fit ofughter.

    Yan Mei squinted her eyes.

    "Oh," she answered perfunctorily.

    "Any updates this morning?" Yan Mei asked tly trying to change the topic.

    "I got a call from Mr. Greene. He wants to set a meeting with you, today at 4 pm." Yan Mei tapped her fingerszily on the table.

    "I remember giving the Greene project to Manager Lu about a month ago. Why does the CEO want to meet me personally?" Yan Mei questioned as her brows scrunched into a scowl.

    "He intends for you to meet him at the Moon restaurant. There are lots of decision that needs to finalized in regards to the supply of the materials; he said he wants your personal critique since it''s vital to the project."

    Su Bei informed.

    "Yan Mei remembers that she had rejected his proposal when the man asked her out. If she wasn''t in need of the raw materials for her project to start she wouldn''t have even chosen to work with him.

    Is he trying to y tricks on me?" Yan Mei mumbled.

    "I don''t know. He said he wanted to discuss his own ideas and he needed to personally go over some uses of the contract."

    Yan Mei was irritated, she wanted to go home early today but it seems that wouldn''t be possible.

    "Can I schedule the meeting?"

    "No, Mr. Greene would be leaving the country tomorrow morning. He won''t be back for a month."

    Yan Mei looked out the window and sighed.

    "Alright, tell Mr. Greene I will see him."

    "Maybe you should appoint a vice president" Su Bei suggested.

    "You''re now married, you can''t be traveling out of the country and meeting men at any time of the day."

    Su Bei said.

    Yan Mei heaved a sigh, "Yeah I have been thinking about this actually but I have to find someone worthy of this work and someone I can trust."

    Su Bei nodded, "Maybe we should conduct an interview. I know we might find the right person. There are a lot of hardworking people in thepany who will fit perfectly for the job."

    Yan Mei pondered on her suggestion before nodding, "Alright then, sort out a list for me."

    A smile appeared on Su Bei''s face. "Of course, I will work on it, right away."

    "Thank you, Beibei." Yan Mei stated, appreciative of her friend''s suggestion.

    "You''re wee! I just want you to get free time so that you can spend it with your husband. It seems he is really treating you well!" Su Bei said as she threw Yan Mei a wink.

    With that being said, Su Bei was out of the office, leaving Yan Mei to herself.

    Yan Mei smiled as she resumed her work.

    ****

    At exactly, 3:55 pm Yan Mei arrived at the Moon restaurant. She was ushered into a private room by a waiter who was waiting for her. When she entered the box she saw Mr. Greene already waiting for her.

    "Miss Yan, you''re earlier than expected." Mr. Greene said as he stood up and strode towards her.

    "Yeah, I''m time conscious." Mr. Greene stretched out his hands which Yan Mei took politely.

    "I hope Miss Yan, doesn''t mind but I invited a friend to the meeting."

    Yan Mei knitted her brows together.

    "Friend?"

    Mr. Greene nodded, "Yes. He is-"

    Just as he was about to speak, the door opened. Yan Mei turned to look at the person. Her eyes met a pair of obsidian ck orbs which caused her eyes to widened.

 Chapter 75 Self-reflect

    <h4>Chapter 75 Self-reflect</h4>

    Yan Mei widened her eyes as she saw Wang Lu ring at her with his icy eyes. Shock gripped her whole being. The man who had used her of cheating and had caused her immense pain for years was standing in front of her after five years. Yan Mei wanted tough; wanted tough bitterly. Was fate ying some sick game with her?

    Now that she has finally found happiness, fate has to be so cruel and flung her demons back into her life. Was he back to ruin her new-found happiness? shbacks of that night came rushing before eyes, she recalled all the dirty names he had called her, his eyes that were filled with hate and disgust.

    The memories she had buried deep down at the back of her mind roused which made her heart hunched in pain. She had tried to forget the hatred and pain she had gone through in the past but now she was desperately recollecting the memories over and over again. Yan Mei took a moment to calm down her nerves and wore a nk expression. She turned to Mr. Greene.

    "Let''s start the meeting." She stated formally.

    ******

    The meeting was brief and racking. Yan Mei could feel Wang Lu''s hot gaze on her throughout the meeting. He hadn''t uttered a word since they started the meeting, he was just sittingzily with his legs crossed and hands across his chest.

    Yan Mei knew he was probably annoyed by the fact that she had ignored him the moment they met. She could see his brows bumped together in a scowl as he looked like he was in deep thought.

    Yan Mei sighed inwardly once they finished the meeting. She was quite surprised that she was able to keep her emotions at bay.

    She gathered her files and got up, "It was nice doing business with you, Mr. Greene."

    The man chuckled, he really has to admire Yan Mei, she didn''t show any emotions when she met her ex-husband nor did she lose focus on the thing they were talking about. He knew Mr. Wang must be fuming right now.

    He had no idea the infamous irondy was married once. When Wang Lu came to his office to propose a business deal in exchange for letting him arrange a meeting with Yan Mei, he was shocked.

    At first, he was thought Wang Lu, wanted to use the opportunity to ask Yan Mei out so he advised him that he shouldn''t waste his time because she would reject him. But heughed and told him he suspects she is his ex-wife!.

    Mr. Greene couldn''t believe it, out of curiosity he agreed to this whole charade. Even though Yan Mei didn''t say anything to Wang Lu, he saw the flickers of emotion on her face when she saw Wang Lu. He thought she was going to freak out or snap at him, but she just said "Let''s start the meeting."

    ''This woman is very interesting.''

    "Likewise, I hope we will cooperate more in the future."

    Yan Mei nodded. "Alright, I will take my leave now."

    Yan Mei felt Wang Lu''s eyes scorching on her skin but she refused to spare him even a nce.

    Just as she was about to reach the door, he heard his deep voice sounding behind her.

    "Miss Yan is really a great businesswoman like the rumors. I have to say I''m impressed." He said his voice thick with sarcasm.

    Yan Mei''s eyes turned to look at him, her eyes met his eyes flickering with curious and mockery.

    "Or you prefer I call you, Feng Mei?"

    A soft sigh left Yan Mei''s mouth; she turned around and strode towards the door. She needed to get out of there before she lose control of her emotions. He is thest person she wants to appear weak in front

    "I asked you something." He said with exasperation.

    Yan Mei heard him stood up, the sound of his footsteps echoing in the quiet room.

    "Who are you? And why should I answer your question?" She said nonchntly as possible even though her clenched fist betrayed her inner turmoil.

    Wang Lu chuckled humorlessly as he came to stand behind her. Yan Mei didn''t dare to turn around. She knew that she needed to leave right now but it felt like her feet were glued to the floor.

    "I guess after deceiving that man into marrying you, you still kept Leng Shao around. Let me guess, you''re still sleeping around with Leng Shao. Since I saw him in City S a few days ago?"

    Yan Mei squinted her eyes. ''What does Leng Shao has to do with this?'' Yan Mei widened her eyes as she realized something.

    "You thought I cheated on you with Leng Shao?" She blurted out before she could stop herself.

    "I didn''t assume; I knew you''re cheating on me with my best friend. I feel bad for that guy; he has to wake up every morning with a slut by his side-"

    Molten rage rolled through Yan Mei, she barely had the chance to think about her actions, she pursed her lips and struck him across the face. The noise of a p radiated in the room. Wang Lu stared at her with his eyes wide as his hand slowly made contact with his cheek.

    ''You pped me??! He bellowed.

    A smug grin appeared on Yan Mei''s face.

    "I should have done this a long time ago," Yan Mei said breathlessly from anger.

    "You have the guts to p me after cheating on me?! What kind of whore are you?"

    Yan Mei felt tightness in her chest; she felt like razor des were moving through her. Five years, she thought he would have a little remorse for what he did to her but he called a whore! She feels very stupid to have fallen in love with this man. Ah, she regrets; regrets every second she spent crying over him in the past five years.

    Sheughed humorlessly the coldness in her tone was bone-chilling.

    "Oh, as a man don''t you think you should self-reflect on why your wife cheated on you? Maybe you werecking somewhere." She said as her eyes traveled in between his legs.

    Wang Lu''s face paled before he could react Yan Mei had already opened the door and left the private box.

    Mr. Greene''sughter snapped Wang Lu out of his stupor. Wang Lu red at him.

    He raked his fingers through his hair, he thought she would cry or beg him to take her back once she sees him. But apart from the flicker of emotions in her eyes when she saw him, her face was devoid of any emotions. Throughout the meeting, she ignored him as if he was thin of air and he hated it.

    Wang Lu remembers the blush that would be on her face anytime she sees him. His Meimei was shy and cute but this woman, he could barely recognize her. He never knew she was that good in business. Was her shy and cute temperament all a fa?ade? So she was ying with him from the beginning?

    An evil glint passed through his eyes as he clucked his tongue.

 Chapter 76 Eternity.

    <h4>Chapter 76 Eternity.</h4>

    When Yan Mei came out of the restaurant, she saw Lei Zhao leaning on her car with his arms across his chest. She squinted her eyes to make sure she was not hallucinating. When she saw it was really him; she went up quickly to him, and hugged him. Sheid her cheeks contentedly against his chest. The moment she was in his arms it was like all her worriedness were taken away.

    She heaved a sigh, and rxed; now that he was here, she felt safe. She trusted him as long as he was with her, she knew nothing bad could happen to her. The pain in her heart disappeared the moment his scent drifted into her nose.

    Lei Zhao chuckled the moment they pulled apart, "Wifey, I didn''t know you miss me that much."

    A blush crept on Yan Mei''s cheeks when she realized what she had done. She looked up at him and red at him. Yan Mei noticed he was wearing a pair of blue jeans and a ck t-shirt, paired with converse. They both stared at each other for a couple of moments before Lei Zhao cleared his throat. Pulling her out of her trance.

    She narrowed her eyes when she saw the red rose, he was holding; she didn''t see it when she hugged him earlier.

    "Is this for me?" She inquired.

    "Yes." Lei Zhao stated, smiling at his wife who looked beautiful as always. He saw someone selling it in traffic and he suddenly thought of his wife so he bought it.

    "A beautiful rose for Mrs. Lei." Lei Zhao said softly as he bowed and offered the rose to her.

    Yan Mei smiled radiantly as she reached out, epting the rose. "Thank you, Mr. Lei." She said as she stood on her tiptoes and nted a kiss on his cheeks.

    Lei Zhao''s heart sipped a beat as he stared at her as she tucked her hair behind her ears looking intently at the rose with a smile tugged at the corners of her lips. Her smile was all that he had wished for when he saw the rose and seeing her with a smile on her face made his heartbeat rose.

    "You''re wee," He whispered.

    "So, do you like it?" Lei Zhao asked scratching the back of his neck.

    "I love it!" Yan Mei beamed.

    "What are you doing here?" Yan Mei asked after a few seconds.

    "I went to pick you up at work but your secretary said you are here for a meeting. So, I came to wait for you." Lei Zhao exined.

    "Oh, so you''ve been waiting for a long time?"

    Lei Zhao smirked and shook his head, "There is no such thing as a long time when I''m waiting for you. I can wait for eternity as long as you ask me to."

    Warmth rushed through Yan Mei. She felt her heart thumping as she gazed into his eyes.

    "Wifey, are you touched?" Lei Zhao chuckled as he flickered her nose.

    Yan Mei snorted, "who is touched?!" she eximed as she avoided his gaze to hide the emotions brewing in her eyes.

    Lei Zhao chuckled, "Alright let''s go."

    Yan Mei noticed several people passing them and most of them were giving them an envious stare. She noticed the women throwing deadly res at her.

    She rolled her eyes and nodded, "Alright.

    ****

    When they got home, they started preparing dinner. Lei Zhao as usual was the chef while Yan Mei assisted him.

    He was cooking noodles because she suggested it. Yan Mei watched his every move. She was worried about his reaction if she tells him she met her ex-husband today and he insulted her.

    She watched as he drained the noodles from the boiling water. Without thinking, Yan Mei just walked behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist. She felt him stiffened when she felt her presence.

    Yan Mei felt like she needed this moment. After her encounter with Wang Lu today, she needed to feel his warmth.

    Lei Zhao chuckled and ced his hand on top of hers.

    "What''s wrong?"

    "Nothing."

    Lei Zhao put the noodles in a bowl and turned around to face her. He ced his hands below her butt and carried her up so she could sit on the counter.

    "Did something happen at the meeting?"

    Yan Mei shook her head and put up a fake smile.

    "Good. Wait, the food will be ready in a few minutes." Lei Zhao said as he pulled away.

    After ten minutes, Lei Zhao served the food. He twirled the noodle around his fork and brought it to her lips.

    Yan Mei opened her mouth and eat the nodded.

    "It''s delicious!"

    "Of course, it is; it was prepared by me," Lei Zhao said bluntly.

    "Enjoy your meal."

    Yan Mei smiled and nodded. She enjoyed this moment that she was having dinner with her husband. The peace it brought her. She would tell him that she met Wang Lu after they finish eating. She didn''t want to destroy this happy moment.

    "So how was work?" Lei Zhao asked

    "Good." She replied.

    ''I''m looking for a vice president. I realized I should share the burden with someone now that I''m married."

    Lei Zhao raised his brows, "Oh, do you have anyone in mind???

    Yan Mei shook her head and sighed.

    "No, I will conduct an interview next week."

    Lei Zhao nodded, "Alright. Let me know if you need help."

    "Okay."

    After they finished having dinner, Yan Mei went to take a bath as Lei Zhao washed the tes.

    When she finished bathing, she wore Lei Zhao shirt which reached just her mid-thigh.

    Lei Zhao who was sitting in the living room listening to the news on the television looked up at her when she cleared her throat.

    Lei Zhao eyes traveled across her body and he swallowed the lump in his throat.

    "Wifey, are you trying to seduce me?" Lei Zhao asked as he grinned roguishly.

    Yan Mei widened her eyes and fidgeted under his gaze.

    "No, I-I just wanted to¡ª" Yan Mei trailed off. She didn''t want to tell him that she wore it because she felt warm wearing his t-shirt. She didn''t want to get teased by him.

    "I can take it off if you want me to." Lei Zhao squinted his eyes as an unknown light passed through her eyes.

    He realized his wife has been behaving weirdly since he picked her up from the restaurant.

    ''Did something happened?''

 Chapter 77 Trust me

    <h4>Chapter 77 Trust me</h4>

    Lei Zhao beckoned at her, "Come here."

    Yan Mei walked towards him and sat beside him on the couch. Lei Zhao pulled her closer and wrapped his arms around her shoulder.

    "Wifey¡­.." Yan Mei tensed up at the sound of his voice with deep eyes staring at her.

    "You have been behaving weird since I picked you up at the restaurant. Is something wrong?"

    Lei Zhao asked maintaining eye contact. Yan Mei tensed up.

    "I''m fine. It just---" she trailed off ying with her fingers.

    Lei Zhao narrowed his eyes, "It just what?"

    "I met him today, Lei Zhao."

    Lei Zhao scrunched his eyes together. Why does he have the feeling that he was not going to like what she was about to say?

    "Who?"

    Yan Mei looked up and gazed into his eyes. Shutting her eyes painfully she uttered the name responsible for her heartaches for years.

    "Wang Lu."

    Rage rolled through Lei Zhao. He released her and inspected her closely.

    "Wifey, are you okay? Did he hurt you?"

    Lei Zhao asked with concernced in his voice. Yan Mei''s nose became sour and shook her head.

    She didn''t know whether tough or cry at his reaction.

    "I''m fine."

    Lei Zhao squinted his eyes as if to find the truth in her eyes. When he saw she was telling the truth he rxed.

    He pulled her closer and nted a kiss on her forehead.

    "Did he say anything to you?"

    Yan Mei bit her lips and tried to control her quivering her lips.

    "He just called names. It''s not like is the first time." Yan Mei said shrugging.

    "It better not be any dirty names or I''m going to beat the shit of that bastared." Lei Zhao said through gritted teeth.

    "Well, he said he feels bad for you because you have to wake up every morning with a sl-"

    Yan Mei trailed off and tried to control her emotions.

    "A slut by your side."

    Anger curled hot and unstoppable in Lei Zhao''s gut, like a zing inferno that wanted to burn him from inside out. Nostrils ring, he stood up with his clenched at his sides.

    "He dared!" Lei Zhao roared angrily. God, he was burning with rage. That son of a bi*tch dares to insult his wife. He hasn''t even settle ounts with him yet and he is insulting his wife!.

    Yan Mei looked at Lei Zhao brewing with anger and felt happiness surged through her.

    She was very happy to have met this man. Seeing the desire for revenge in his eyes made her nerves calm down. She knows as long as Lei Zhao is by her side; she would be safe.

    She reached out and held his clenched fist.

    "Don''t get riled up. He is not worth it." Yan Mei said softly.

    Lei Zhao took a deep to calmed his emotions before turning to look at her.

    "Sorry, I didn''t mean to scare you."

    Yan Mei shook her head, "I''m not scared. Also, I pped him if it makes you feel better. I can stand his insult but the moment he brought you into this, I lost control."

    Lei Zhao widened his eyes, he didn''t expect that.

    He sat down and gently held Yan Mei''s left hand.

    "Is your hand okay?" He asked gently with concern evident in his voice.

    Yan Mei chuckled when she saw his face contorted with pain.

    "I told you not to use your hands on irrelevant people."

    Yan Mei smiled as she tried to blink away the tears that were threatening to fall, away. A single tear dropped from her eyes which caused Lei Zhao to panic.

    "Wifey, what''s wrong? Is your hand painful? Let me blow it for you."

    Lei Zhao said as he brought her hand to his lips and blew on it gently. Yan Mei burst into tears by his action.

    "Wait, I''m not doing it well? Why are you crying? Do you-"

    Yan Mei interrupted him by crushing her lips into his. Lei Zhao stiffened by her reaction but he parted his lips and kissed her back, darting his tongue inside hers. A growl came from the back of his throat as he deepened the kiss. When they broke away after what seems like ages she rested her forehead against his.

    Both their breaths were shaky. "Thank you."

    Yan Mei whispered.

    "For what?"

    Lei Zhao replied huskily. As they stared at each other''s eyes.

    "Nothing. Just wanted to thank you."

    Lei Zhao smiled., Silly. Don''t thank me again. It what I should do as your husband."

    Familiar warmth shed through Yan Mei at his words, easing her pain.

    "Hmmm."

    "Wait, how did he know it''s you?" Lei Zhao questioned once they pulled apart.

    "You could have denied it''s not you. After all, you have changed your name."

    Yan Mei shook her head, "Even though Wang Lu is just an ordinary rich prosecutor and a businessman to people he actually has a powerful force behind him. Knowing him he wouldn''t leave me alone until he has found out my identity." Yan Mei exined.

    "Also, I don''t want him to know about the baby¡­."

    Lei Zhao nodded in understanding and pulled her closer to him. Yan Mei snuggled further into his side, both of them wrapped together in each other''s embrace.

    "Lei Zhao¡­" Yan Mei called out his name.

    "Hmm."

    "I don''t know what he would do but, whatever happens, I hope you trust me. I know you might get tired of waiting for me but¡­just please hold on a little longer. Don''t ever leave me."

    Lei Zhao chuckled and pinched her cheeks.

    "I will never leave you nor will I let that bastard hurt you. Because I love you."

    Yan Mei badly wished she could tell him she loves him too but she was still unsure about her feelings. She wants to wait until she''s ready.

    Lei Zhao pressed a kiss on a forehead.

    Yan Mei let her worries out of her system for now. She was with her husband and he was the most important person in her life now, and she didn''t want to be separated from him. Never.

 Chapter 78 Revenge

    <h4>Chapter 78 Revenge</h4>

    Wang Lu stared at his reflection in the mirror. The pain and hatred in Yan Mei''s eyes have been haunting him. He had to admit that his words were cruel but when he saw the indifferent look on her face and the fact that she had ignored him, irked him. He really regrets his words because he still loves her, damn it!

    Wang Lu thought he had gotten over her but the moment he saw her in front of him, a burning sensation had shot through him. The pain had thrummed through his body apanied by happiness and relief. He was relieved that she was still alive and doing well; he doesn''t think he would forgive himself if something had happened to her.

    Maybe he was crazy to still care about the woman who had cheated on him and had wreaked havoc in his heart but he couldn''t. Maybe somewhere at the back of his mind, he didn''t really hate her. He just hated himself for not being good enough for her.

    Maybe that''s why she had cheated on him. Heughed maniacally as he stared at his reflection in the mirror when he realized he was doing exactly what she had told him to do; self-reflecting on why she cheated on him.

    Wang Lu squinted his eyes painfully; he had seen how happy she looked at that man. When she left the box, he felt a pang in his chest like he was losing her all over again so he had chased her but just as he was a few feet away from her, he saw her walking quickly and rushed into the man''s arms. Because the man''s back was facing him, Wang Lu couldn''t see his face, but he was sure it was her husband.

    Unfortunately, he didn''t also see his face at the g nor was he able to find any information about the man. All he knew was that she was married but the identity of the man was mysterious. Wang Lu could have easily found the man''s identity but he was in a hurry to know about Yan Mei that he didn''t pay much attention to her husband. He knew he might be a handsome man from his stature.

    Wang Lu watched as Yan Mei hugged another man and there was nothing, he could do about it; he had already lost her. He had sneered thinking she had gotten another rich man to fool but deep down he was bleeding. He realized she looked happier with him. He watched as she smiled at whatever the man said and his own lips twitched.

    He stood there and watched her as she stood on tiptoed and nted a shy kiss on the man''s cheek. His fists had curled by his sides as he had an internal battle with himself. He wanted to break every bone in the man''s body for touching what is his.

    Wang Lu had no idea but like a crazy ex stalker, he had followed them to their house. He just wanted to find where she lived so he could take revenge. His hands clenched the sink.

    ''Revenge.'' As pathetic as the idea sounded to his own his ears considering if he wanted revenge he would have done it five years ago. He knew he could never bring himself to do it.

    His jaw clenched when he saw the man wrapped a protective hand around her shoulder as if she was the most precious thing in the world. Of course, she was happy, she had found herself a new husband and also has be a rich heiress. And here he was drowning in self-pity and finding It hard to let go of the woman who had hurt him.

    Memories of those horrendous night showing her true self shed across his mind. His head hung low in the sink; he was really pathetic. He chuckled realizing he was destroying himself for a woman who had never loved him; a woman who had crushed him.

    He is feared by many due to how ruthless he is in the business world but behind closed doors, he was just a feeble man whose wife had cheated on him; and is too obsessed about her to move on.

    ''Stupid, pathetic!'' His mind screamed at him. Wang Lu balled his fist and smash it through the mirror.

    "Fuck, fuck, fuck¡­.." He yelled as he punched the mirror. Blood started pooling on his hand. Wang Lu had no idea how long he had smashed his fist in the mirror. He breathed heavily and run a frustrated hand through his hair. He needed a drink and he needed it now or he might lose his mind.

    *****

    Lei Zhao watched his wife who was sleeping peacefully and sighed; she had fallen asleep when they were watching someedy movie and had brought her to the bedroom. He nted a kiss on her forehead and went to stand at the balcony.

    He called Ye Xing his assistant. The only way he could protect his wife is to know more about her ex-husband. He knew Wang Lu from the news and papers as the CEO of Wang international. They had met once at a business seminar and Lei Zhao had to admit he admired the man at that time. He was decisive, ruthless, and good at his job. If he hadn''t hurt his wife maybe they would have been friends but he hurt his favorite person and he wouldn''t let him go.

    "Boss." Ye Xing called out respectful the moment he picked up the call.

    "I want all information about Wang Lu. CEO of Wang international." Lei Zhao said as he squeezed between his brows.

    "Alright boss."

    Lei Zhao disconnected the call and looked at the starry sky. He knew everything wasn''t as simple as it seems. How can an intelligent man like Wang Lu believes that Yan Mei cheated on him without proof? He should have seen something; something that forced him to believe and clouded his judgment for years.

    Lei Zhao''s main concern wasn''t Wang Lu, but the person who fabricated all of this. The person who had hurt his wife. He doesn''t know if the person''s target was Wang Lu or Yan Mei and he wouldn''t rest until he has found the person.

 Chapter 79 Cutest Virgin

    <h4>Chapter 79 Cutest Virgin</h4>

    Ying Sheng walked on the sidewalk with her hands in her leather jacket pocket. Her brows were bumped together when she realized she has no idea where she was going. She had a fight with her mother about the type of friends she associates with and the way she dresses. Her mother had made it perfectly clear how disappointed she is because she wanted her daughter to be a princess envied by everyone in the high society instead she got a gangster!

    Ying sheng hadughed when she heard her mother. She wanted to ask her whose fault it was that she had turned out this way but she was toozy to argue with her mother. She knew nothing would change so she had walked out on her mother. Leaving the woman to fume behind.

    Ying Sheng realized that she had no money and her mobile phone wasn''t even with her. She heaved a sigh. She really regretsing back to China. She should have stayed in the states, but that part of her that was longing for a family finally won which made her came back.

    But as usual, she was disappointed. Her father was too busy with hispany and her mother was too wrapped up being the perfect phnthropist in the public''s eyes to even pay attention to her. The only time she would get her mother''s attention is when they were arguing about her choice of friends or her attire for an event.

    Her younger brother too was in some rich boarding school where they were grooming him to be the perfect heir to seed an empire. She rolled her eyes in annoyance.

    Ying Sheng was brought into the present when a ck car pulled over to the side of the road. She raised her brows and gazed at the tinted ss. Ignoring the car, she walkedzily to her desired direction which was the park. She realized it was the only ce she could go since she had no money on her and was a ten minutes'' walk from her house.

    However, she realized the car was following her. Stopping in her tracks, she turned to give the driver a piece of her mind. But the window of the car opened revealing Liam with a smile on his face.

    "Hey!" Liam said, waving at her.

    "Liam?" Ying Sheng said in surprise.

    "What are you doing?"

    "I was justing back from a meeting when I saw you walking. "

    Ying Sheng raised her eyebrows, "Are you sure you''re not stalking me? Also, don''t you live far away from here?"

    Liam blushed. "No-I-I''m not stalking you! Also, I moved out of my parent''s house. I realized I needed a ce of my own." Liam bbered; of course, he wasn''t going to tell her he had been waiting for her. He had parked in a ce she wouldn''t see and had been waiting for her toe out of the house for hours so that he could ask her out.

    He was stupid, he knows. He just had been having sleepless nights thinking about her. So with the help of his brother he had gathered the courage toe to see her today. But he realized he couldn''t just go to her house and asked her out so he has been waiting; waiting for the perfect opportunity to fake an encounter.

    His heart had skipped a beat when he saw her walking out of the house. He realized she seemed to be in a bad mood so he decided to wait a few minutes before approaching her.

    Ying Sheng chuckled and nodded, "Alright I will pretend I believe you. Why did you move out? Do you have a girlfriend now?" Ying Sheng didn''t notice the bitterness in her voice when she utter the word, ''girlfriend.''

    Liam shook his head quickly, "No-no I don''t have a girlfriend yet."

    Ying Sheng nodded and a smile tugged at the corners of her lips. She leaned on the windows with a smug on her face.

    "Don''t tell me you''re waiting for me to seduce you." Liam swallowed the lump in his throat and a faint blushed appeared on his face.

    "Ye-No. I mean no." Ying Sheng squinted her eyes.

    "From your reaction about anytime I mention seducing you. Don''t tell me you''re a virgin?" Ying Sheng had assumed that he was a virgin but she thought her assumptions were absurd since it was rare to find a man who was a virgin at the age of twenty-three.

    Liam avoided her gaze, "What¡ªare you--- talking about?"

    Ying Sheng''s eyes gleamed, "Cutie do you want to tell me you''ve kissed, sucked, licked, and fucked a woman before? So you''ve experienced the sheer euphoria of orgasm before?"

    Liam blushed which burned through his cheeks and his face felt like they were on fire. He suddenly felt awkward, demur, and coy. He knew the red-haired woman was eagerly waiting for a reply.

    "Where¡ªare you going? Let me drop you off. He offered to try to change the topic."

    Ying Sheng chortled, "Are you trying to change the topic?"

    Liam scratched the back of his neck, he had no idea how the conversation hade to this. ''Will she think he is less of a man if she gets to know he is a virgin? Or she would think he is a womanizer if he lies he isn''t.''

    Thinking a deep breath he replied, "I--yes. I''m a virgin." He held his breath waiting for her reaction. He thought she would call himme but she surprised him byughing.

    "Oh my! You''re the most cutest virgin I have ever met. Good, good no girl has tainted you yet. You are mine to corrupt." Ying Sheng purred offering him a wink.

    Liam''s heart started beating rapidly in his chest as he gazed at the beautiful woman iming ownership of him. He coughed to hide his awkwardness.

    "That¡­.would you like to go somewhere with me?" Liam said nervously.

    Ying Sheng clucked her tongue. "Are you asking me out on a date?"

    Liam widened his eyes, "Ye-no. If you don''t want to go it''s fine."

    Ying Sheng shook her head helplessly. ''What is she going to do with him?''

    "Yes, I will go with you."

    Happiness surged through Liam when he heard her.

 Chapter 80 Happy pill

    <h4>Chapter 80 Happy pill</h4>

    Liam brought Ying Sheng to an ice cream parlor. She had to admit she was quite surprised though; she wasn''t expecting him to take her to an ice cream parlor. Seeing all the colored ice creams brightened her mood. She became excited and suddenly hungry for it.

    Liam went to join the queue in a hurry to bypass the kids and get in line faster than them. Ying Sheng chuckled at the sight and followed behind him.

    "What can I get you, Sir?" The young guy behind the counter asked with a friendly smile. Liam turned to look at Ying Sheng, "What would you like?"

    Ying Sheng bit her lips. She was finding it difficult to choose one since all of them looked delicious. A glint passed through her eyes. "Why don''t you surprise me?" She said sending Liam a subtle wink.

    Liam beamed and turned to look at the guy behind the counter, "Give me strawberry ice cream, vani wafer, and caramel syrup."

    "Here you go, Sir, for your girlfriend." A huge smile broke out Liam''s face when he heard the guy. ''girlfriend''

    How nice that would be! His heart fluttered, so he didn''t bother correcting the guy.

    Ying Sheng was busily admiring the cup he had just given her so she didn''t pay attention to what the guy said.

    She raised her head and saw Liam holding a cup bigger than hers.

    ''God, he is so cute.'' Considering how his eyes were shimmering looking at his ice cream like a kid.

    "What?" Liam asked when he noticed her starring at him.

    "You''re cute!" She said with a softugh. Liam shook his head helplessly and tried not to get affected by what she had said. Heaving a sigh, he searched for a table for them to sit.

    They sat at an empty chair at the corner. Even though Ying Sheng was enjoying the ice cream; She couldn''t help but stare at the family sitting across from them. They were a family of three with an adorable baby girl with a woman and a man she assumed were her parents.

    She watched as the girl tried to scoop a vani ice cream but it was big for her so it ended up smearing around her mouth. A sad smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she watched the woman wiped the ice cream off the girl''s lips.

    She remembered her parents used to take her to an ice cream parlor every weekend when she was a kid. Her father would always feed her and call her his little princess while ruffling her hair with a smile on his face.

    But suddenly her parents became too busy for her to the extent of not evening home for dinner. She spent most of her time with her aunty, Lei Xiao Tong.

    "What are you looking at?" He asked, turning his head over his shoulder to look behind them.

    "Nothing. Just think, the kid is cute." She mumbled, smiling at their direction.

    "Yeah, but I think ou¡ªyour kid would be much cuter" He stated, his eyes shing with seriousness.

    She tilted her head back andughed at him, this time heartily, unaffectedly. Liam stared at herughing and felt warmth settling in his heart.

    "What?" Ying Sheng asked

    "Uh, what?" He questioned back feigning innocence.

    Ying Sheng lips tugged to form a smile. She was enjoying his struggle. Liam inwardly groaned at his stupidity. He shouldn''t have bluntly stared at her.

    "Well, you could stop staring now." She said with a smile on her face.

    Liam knew he was blushing; trying to hide his embarrassment, he quickly retorted.

    "I''m not!"

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes yfully.

    "So¡ªdo you like the ice cream?" he asked suddenly as he looked at her adoringly.

    Ying Sheng nodded. "It''s far the best ice cream I have ever had!" She replied truthfully.

    "I''m d." Liam grinned, looking satisfied. He looked happy; Ying Sheng realized that ever since she met him she has been smiling a lot. He was like a happy pill for her.

    "Tell me about yourself Ying Sheng." Liam asked taking a bite of his ice cream.

    Ying Sheng froze for a minute. Thest time someone had asked her this question was when she went to see that psychologist Lei Zhao had rmended.

    Taking a lengthy breath, she asked, "What do you want to know?"

    "For starters, how old are you?" Liam asked.

    "Twenty-one."

    Liam raised his brows and nodded, "So you''re in college?"

    Ying Sheng nodded, "Yes, I am."

    A smile stered on Liam''s face.

    "What are you studying?"

    Ying Sheng ate her ice cream before replying tly.

    "Medicine."

    Liam choked on the ice cream in his mouth and widened his eyes.

    "Medi-cine?"

    Ying Sheng snorted, "Yes, why? You think you''re the only smartass?"

    Liam shook his head, "No-no I just¡­." He trailed off.

    Should he tell her he wasn''t expecting someone like her to do medicine? But that would be harsh.

    "Wasn''t expecting a crazy girl like me to study medicine?" Ying Sheng continued for him.

    Liam scratched the back of his head embarrassedly, "Honestly, yeah."

    Ying Sheng shrugged, "It''''s okay. I don''t even know what I''m doing there. I hate the program, to be honest."

    Liam furrowed his brows, "Then why are you doing it? You should study something you''re interested in."

    Ying Sheng chortled, "Tell that to my mother."

    Liam opened his mouth to say something but closed it. He knew she was going through some issues of her own, and he didn''t want to pry until she was ready to share it with him.

    "So¡­.what would you like to study though?"

    A sad smile tugged at the corners of her lips, "I- I don''t know. At twenty-one and I don''t even know what I want to study, I might probably be the biggest loser on earth." Ying Sheng said sarcastically.

    Liam took her hand which was resting on the table, "It''s perfectly okay if you don''t know what you want. Life is not a race you just have to set your own pace. Your friend''s pace is not your own. just go on your own, steadily."

 Chapter 81 Sex texting.

    <h4>Chapter 81 Sex texting.</h4>

    Ying Sheng''s heart melted from his gentle words. She just gazed at him in astonishment as she was rendered speechless.

    He then continued, "Don''t worry about it, I''m sure you will figure something out." His mouth curved into a soft smile afterwards.

    Ying Sheng gulped as she felt her mouth dried up all of a sudden. She didn''t know what to say or how to even react. It was refreshing to hear words of encouragement; and he sounded so sincere.

    Ying Sheng justughed, "You''re really something."

    Liam blinked, "What is that supposed to mean?" He queried.

    Ying Sheng huffed but her lips quirked into a smile when she saw his brows snapped together as if he was thinking about what she has said.

    ******

    Ying Sheng pressed her hands to her chin as she rested her elbow on the table. The teacher was busily talking about how the body fights against pathogens or was he? She had no idea; Ying Sheng had no mood to listen to the ss.

    If it wasn''t for the fact that there was a required ss with a roll-call after this period she would have skipped ss. It''s not like she was afraid of the roll-call; just the teacher was a pain in the ass. Once you missed the roll-call, he would call your parents toin about how bad of a student you''re.

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes. She wasn''t in the mood for another lecture from her mother so here she is, sitting in this boring lecture. She stifled a yawn.

    Ying Sheng grabbed her phone to send Liam a text. Yesterday when he had dropped her home after they finished eating the ice cream he had asked for her number. Ying Sheng can still remember how beet red he was when he was asking for the number. A smile tugged at the corner of her lips.

    Ying Sheng: What are you doing?

    Liam replied quicker than Ying Sheng had expected.

    Liam: Meeting.

    Ying Sheng narrowed her eyes.

    Ying Sheng: You can send messages when you''re in a meeting?

    The reply waste toe unlike the first one.

    Liam: I just have to attend. Someone is in charge.

    Ying Sheng: Oh¡­Do you want to know something?

    Ying Sheng sent back with a smirk on her face.

    Liam: What?

    Ying Sheng : I had a dreamst night, and you were in me¡­I mean in it.

    Liam widened his eyes when he read the message. A faint blush made its way on his face.

    Liam : Oh¡­Ermm¡­what was I---doing in it?

    He replied awkwardly.

    Ying Sheng grinned and a gleam of deviltry passed through her eyes.

    Ying Sheng : Well, you were in my room and we were making out. I removed your shirt, pushed you on my bed, and crawled over you. I started kissing you all over your face and neck. I slightly bit into your skin, sucking it with my mouth. You moaned from the pleasure. I smiled and looked into your eyes. "A love bite." I whispered. Your brows scrunched together.

    "It means you''re mine silly," I exined. You smiled and slowly caressed the bite with your fingertip.

    Liam blushed profusely when he read the text. The first time they were texting, and she sent him this. How was he even supposed to reply to this? He fidgeted ufortably in his seat. He felt his trousers getting tight.

    Liam: ....

    Ying Sheng: Hahaha you must probably be blushing, right Cutie? Should I continue?

    "Boss, are you okay? Why is your face suddenly red?" The male employee doing the presentation asked.

    Liam froze and turned his head to look at his brother, Lucas. Lucas had lowered his head and was flipping through some entertainment magazine. Liam heaved a sigh, fortunately, he didn''t see him.

    "Yeah, I''m fine. Continue what you were saying."

    The employee was stunned. Was the boss even listening to him?

    "I''m done with the presentation, Sir."

    Liam''s assistant who saw the confusion on his face pushed the notes he had taken over to him. ncing at the records written, Liam calmly said, "Does anybody have any objection or contribution?"

    The employees were silent. Seeing no one voiced an opinion, Liam nodded.

    "You have all worked hard. Meeting adjourned."

    Liam decided the meeting which was supposed tost several hours in a few minutes.

    Lucas waited for thest employee to leave before closing the magazine.

    "Well brother, I have to say I''m quite surprised today. You were chatting during a meeting and even ended such an important meeting early. So, who were you chatting with?"

    The assistant who was tidying up the files stretched his ears to listen to the gossip. He was also curious about who the boss was chatting. He even blushed!

    His boss was an extreme introvert who rarely appears in the public''s eyes. Even though he was the one who created this leading gamingpany; nobody knows. His brother was the face of thepany. People assume Lucas was the owner since he attended every function and granted interviews.

    Liam nced at Lucas and didn''t pay attention to his words. "Don''t forget to attend the interview with the media. We need the hype for the new game we would beunching."

    Liam shrugged. He didn''t express an opinion and stood up to depart. In the middle of departing, he turned around and asked, "Right, how did your date go yesterday?"

    "Good," Liam said not lifting his head. He was contemting on the reply he should give to Ying Sheng. ''Should I ask her to continue?'' He bit his lips.

    Lucas who left halfway. Suddenly came back and snatched Liam''s phone. He swiped at the phone screen and saw the messages between Ying Sheng and Liam.

    He blinked his eyes and looked up at his brother ring at him. He gave Liam''s phone to him after he was done.

    Ignoring the deadly re Liam was giving him, he turned to the secretary.

    "Young assistant do you know why a girl will sex text a guy?"

    The assistant shook his head, "I don''t know. Probably she is sexually into you?"

    Lucasughed, "Bingo! Or maybe she is bored?"

    Lucas said while walking.

    "Women, you will never understand them." After saying these baffling words, Lucas left.

 Chapter 82 Daddy

    <h4>Chapter 82 Daddy</h4>

    Liam looked at his phone for a couple of minutes contemting what to say. He has never done anything like this before. Maybe he should have asked Lucas for some tips? He groaned and ran a frustrated hand through his hair.

    He really didn''t want to lookme in front of his crush. I mean who doesn''t know sex texting these days; apart from him! He loosened his tie and tapped his foot. After thinking about what to reply a light bulb went off in his head. ''The inte why didn''t I think about it''. Liam thought as he opened his Weibo and typed in the search box.

    ''How to sex text a woman.'' Liam looked through the search results and nearly fell from his chair. He felt the contents were too explicit for him and he would feel awkward when he meets her if he sends her these dirty messages. Heaving a sigh, he decided to send her a message.

    Ying Sheng who was waiting for his reply held her elbow on the desk, with her face in her hand. After a while, she sent a message.

    Ying Sheng : Why aren''t you replying, are you busy?

    Liam looked at the message and hurriedly replied.

    Liam : No, we have adjourned the meeting. I''m picking up.

    Not waiting for Ying Sheng''s reply, Liam sent another message.

    Liam : What are you doing now?

    Ying Sheng : In-ss

    Liam narrowed his eyes.

    Liam : You''re texting in ss?

    A corner of Ying Sheng''s mouth lifted. She knew her Cutie was one of those people who probably shut their phones down the moment they entered the ss. Just so they can focus on whatever the teacher would say.

    Ying Sheng: Duh¡­.

    Liam shook his head helplessly as he actually envisioned Ying Sheng with a bored look on her face as she typed this message. His mouth twitched just thinking about her.

    Liam : Don''t do.¡­that again

    Ying Sheng : What?

    Liam : Sex text other guys....You can''t do that!

    Ying Sheng scratched her nose. Why does she feel that there is something wrong with this text? Why does he sound like a jealous boyfriend? She simpered.

    Ying Sheng : Oh¡­and what are you going to do Daddy, spank me for being naughty?

    Liam turned crimson as his eyes bugged when he saw her reply. Geez! Why can''t he just have a normal conversation with her?

    Liam : Hmm.

    Ying Sheng lifted an eyebrow, she wasn''t expecting him to reply like that. What does hmm means? Just as she was about to ask what he means, he sent her a message.

    Liam: It''s okay, we all make mistakes.

    Ying Sheng: ..

    Ying Sheng burst out into fits ofughter when she saw his reply. Her little Cutie is so innocent. How could she have thought he would really y along.

    The professor cleared his throat, which drew Ying Sheng''s attention. She looked up and realized the entire ss was staring at her with an annoyed look on their face.

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes. These nerds must probably be angry as she had disrupted their rapid attention.

    "Miss Ying, is there something funny you would like to share with the ss?" The professor questioned while staring at her.

    ''Yeah, I''m trying to corrupt an innocent man.''

    "Ermm¡­no?" Ying Sheng retorted

    The professor heaved a sigh. He knew there was nothing he can do. Ying Sheng''s parents were shareholders of the school, and he didn''t want to risk losing his job.

    "Let''s continue."

    Liam scratched the back of his head awkwardly. ''Was he supposed to say that?''

    Ying Sheng : When will you close from work? Can you pick me up from school?"

    Liam read the chat, and he beamed. He couldn''t wait to see her!

    Liam : Alright. Send me the time you will finish the ss and the location.

    *****

    Eventually, thest ss of the day ended. Ying Sheng had no idea what the teachers had taught, She was either counting the seconds for the ss to end or was sleeping on the table. The moment she looked up, Ying Sheng saw a young guy standing at the ssroom door with both his hands in his trousers.

    He was leaningzily on the wall. His tousled brown hairplemented his eyes. A single earring hung on his left ear, along with a ring that dangled on his nose. He was wearing ripped jeans and a leather jacket with a ck t-shirt underneath.

    His face was covered with a mask giving him a mysterious vibe. Even though half of his face was covered, several female students couldn''t help but stare at him.

    An arrogant half-smirk appeared on his face when he saw Ying Sheng.

    "Hello, Love." Ying Sheng rolled her eyes and resisted the urge to punch him.

    "What do you want?" She asked tly while walking away.

    "Ouch, don''t you miss me?" He replied following behind her with sarcasmced in his tone.

    "No."

    The guy wrapped his hands around her shoulder. Heaving a sigh he asked seriously, "How are you?"

    "Alive." Ying Sheng said while looking around.

    "I''m right here, Love. No need to look around."

    Ying Sheng groaned in annoyance and turned to look at him.

    "Why are you here?"

    "I missed you." He replied as he scratched his head.

    Ying Sheng snorted, "Do you?"

    "Are you still angry about what happened?"

    "Define angry." Ying Sheng said, crossing her hand across her chest.

    "Sorry, I shouldn''t have shouted at you. I just saw you were about to hit her and I lost control."

    Ying Sheng sneered, "When are you going to realize that woman is a parasite, leeching on you!"

    Ying Sheng yelled raking a frustrated hand through her hair.

    "The moment-" She stopped talking when she saw Liam gazing at her with an unknown glint in his eyes.

    She raised her brows; the man realized Ying Sheng looking somewhere and followed her gaze. He saw a man with his brows knitted together. As a man, he clearly understood the look in the man''s eyes.

    "Who is that?" He inquired.

 Chapter 83 Cute

    <h4>Chapter 83 Cute</h4>

    "None of your business!" Ying Sheng said as she ran towards Liam.

    "Hey"

    Liam just nodded and started walking away. Ying Sheng followed him with her brows raised.

    "What''s wrong?"

    "Nothing." He replied bluntly.

    They sat in the car in silence. Liam''s heart was in turmoil when he saw the guy Ying Sheng was talking to. ''How am I going topete with him?'' He had thought bitterly. The guy was everything he was not with his piercings and bad boy vibe. ''Did she like guys like that?''

    His heart fell in his stomach resulting in his grim mood. Ying Sheng felt the silence was too much for her to bear. Her forehead creased as she turned to look at him.

    "Liam"

    "¡­." She raised her brows when he didn''t respond.

    "Liam." She called him again, but he was too wrapped up in his thoughts to even hear her.

    "Okay, now I''m starting to freak out. Are you even paying attention to the road?"

    Ying Sheng queried as she pinched his arms. Liam moaned out in pain.

    "Argh¡­what was that for?"

    Ying Sheng''s mouth set in a hard line.

    "Did something happened at work? Will I be killing anybody soon for hurting you?"

    The color drained from Liam''s face when he heard her. ''Yeah, maybe you can kill that guy you were talking to you.''

    "Nothing happened at work and you would be killing no one ever. Killing is illegal and you might get hung or sent to jail for it. Worst case scenario-"

    "Okay, okay I get it! It was humor, Liam."

    Liam flushed, "Oh.." he trailed off.

    Liam gasped breaking the heavy silence in the car. Ying Sheng turned to look at him; okay something was definitely wrong.

    "Liam."

    "Hmm." He answered while keeping his eyes on the road.

    "Look at me."

    Liam shook his head, "I''m driving, I need to focus."

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes, "What''s wrong?"

    Liam kept quiet for a few seconds before he started bbering, "Well, nothing is wrong. I mean what can possibly go wrong and is not like I''m jealous of seeing you totally talking to a guy I can possibly notpete with."

    Ying Sheng stiffened for a second, then burst out intoughter.

    "Oh my! You''re in a bad mood because you saw me talking to Han Xin?"

    ''Han Xin, so that is his name.''

    "No." Liam retorted tly.

    "Why are jealous? Are you afraid I would stop hanging out with you?" Ying Sheng asked since she thought it was the only reason he would possible be jealous of Han Xin.

    "Cutie, there is no need for rm. Han Xin is a friend of mine." Ying Sheng exined.

    "Oh.." Liam replied awkwardly. ''So he just a friend?'' He really hopes so.

    Ying Sheng looked out the window as a trace of sadness shed through her eyes.

    ''Were they even still friends?''

    "That''s not the way to my house." Ying Shengmented when she saw him going on aplete route.

    Liam shook his head and offered her a smile, "Aren''t you hungry?"

    "But-"

    "Just eat with me, then I will take you home. Please."

    Ying Sheng looked at his eyes shimmering with anticipation and she couldn''t bear to turn him down.

    She blew a breath of air and nodded, "Alright."

    Liam''s lips curved into a smile. Ying Sheng stared at him, honestly, she feared how good he was to her. What if she gets attached to him, then he leaves her? She didn''t want to get hurt. Because once she invested her feelings for someone, they leave her.

    Even Han Xin had left her, once that bi*ch came. He had forgotten all the promises he had made her. He said he would be there for her but where was he when she needed him the most?! Probably he was in the arms of that woman. Okay, maybe she was jealous since she has a crush on him.

    Han Xin had saved her when she was attacked once. Even though she was able to escape from her attackers, she had gotten shot pretty badly. He found her dying in an alley and picked her up, nursed her back to health for weeks. Her parents didn''t even realize she was missing.

    During that time, they became friends. Gradually she got attached to him and started having feelings for him. On the night, she was about to tell him how she feels. He introduced his girlfriend to her. How ironic. Ying Sheng still remembers how her heart had constricted that night. She let out a long breath, exasperated.

    When Liam parked the car, Ying Sheng looked outside the window to see where he had taken her.

    He had parked around at KFC. Ying Sheng squinted her eyes. She was thinking he would take her to a fancy restaurant but KFC? That was unexpected.

    "I hope you like fast foods." Ying Sheng offered him a smile and nodded.

    They got out of the car; he lead her to an empty table.

    "Wait for me, I will be back." Liam then went to the counter to order. A few minutester, he came back with a tray of six chicken hamburgers, potatoes fries, chicken breast with tworge cups of coke.

    "That''s a lot." Ying Shengmented.

    Liam smiled, "I thought you can eat all of this by yourself."

    Ying Sheng arched her brows, "Are you calling me a fat?" She teased while keeping a straight face.

    His mouth gaped, trying to find the right words to say. Ying Sheng could sense his panic.

    When he started to fidget, she couldn''t take it anymore andughed boisterously drawing people''s attention.

    Laim sat there ufortable as he stared at her. Ying Sheng tried to control herughter.

    Seeing herughed because of him, awaken an overwhelming feeling in his heart.

    "What?" Ying Sheng asked when she saw him staring at her.

    Liam shook his head, "You''re cute."

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes. ''Did he just call her cute!''

 Chapter 84 Long time no see

    <h4>Chapter 84 Long time no see</h4>

    Yan Mei looked at the dark liquid in the cup and wrinkled her nose. ''I''m I supposed to drink this?'' She thought with her brows knitted together. She turned to look at Lei Zhao who was clearly enjoying her plight and red at him.

    "Wifey, you need to drink the medicine. Be good." Lei Zhao coaxed softly.

    Yan Mei clucked her tongue at her cheeks. "It looks so bitter!"

    Lei Zhao''s eyes gleamed, and patted her hair gently, "I will give you, strawberry once you''re done."

    Yan Mei looked at the medicine and felt the urge to cry. Once her period was over, Lei Zhao had started preparing this bitter Chinese medicine for her. Every morning she has to drink it once she finished eating.

    "Wifey¡­it will get cold. Hurry." Lei Zhao said helplessly. He has seen how much his wife hates drinking medicine. Every morning he has to coax her before she drinks. If the doctor hadn''t forbidden him to not touch the medicine, he would feed her himself with his mouth.

    Yan Mei took a deep breath, squeezed her eyes shut and drink the medicine in one gulp

    "Arghh¡­" she groaned once she finished drinking. She has always hated drinking medicine since she was a kid.

    "See it wasn''t that hard." Lei Zhao grinned.

    Yan Mei pouted when she heard him.

    "Open your mouth." Lei Zhao said as he fed her strawberry. Yan Mei opened her mouth and bite into the strawberry, the sweet juice reced the bitterness in her mouth.

    Lei Zhao nted a kiss on her forehead.

    "Good girl. I will reward you tonight." Yan Mei turned to look at him.

    "What are you going to give me?"

    Lei Zhao smirked and whispered sexily in her ears.

    "I''m going to make you feel so good, that you would be begging for more."

    Yan Mei flushed at what he said. Her cheeks became hot. He leaned in closer as he dropped a wet kiss at the side of her neck causing her to shake and shiver.

    "Tell me has anybody made you feel like the way I make you feel?" Lei Zhao asked.

    Yan Mei gulped and shook her head.

    "Will it hurt if I tell you someone has?" Yan Mei inquired.

    A cheeky grin appeared on Lei Zhao''s lips.

    "Oh, but it wouldn''t." he stepped back and gazed into her eyes.

    "No one is ever going to make feel you the way I make you feel, Wifey. Especially when ites to making you scream with pleasure."

    Yan Mei was confused by his sudden reaction yet she felt it was very heartwarming.

    "I know Hubby. "Yan Mei said as she ced a kiss on his cheeks.

    "Now, let''s go or I''m going to bete for work."

    "Alright." Lei Zhao said as he picked her bag.

    ****

    "Thank God" you are finally here."

    Yan Mei raised her brows when she heard Su Bei.

    "Why, what''s wrong?"

    Su Bei darted her eyes, "That¡­ there is this man looking for you. He has been waiting for hours; I felt bad so I let him stay in the lounge area."

    Yan Mei squinted her eyes.

    "Did you ask his name?"

    Su Bei blushed, "I---"

    The man was so handsome that she had just stared at him. She couldn''t even form proper sentences when his piercing eyes met hers.

    "Sorry." Su Bei said as she fidgeted with her hands.

    Yan Mei narrowed her eyes at Su Bei.

    "You like the stranger, waiting for me?"

    Yan Mei asked, amusement evident in her tone. She was curious about the man who was able to make her friend flustered like this.

    "No-no. I don''t!" Su Bei quickly retorted.

    Yan Mei chuckled and shook her head.

    "Yeah right, you don''t. Now go ask his name. I will be in my office."

    "Okay, Boss."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes and walked to her office.

    When Su Bei walked to the lounge area, she saw the man tapping his foot with his arms across his chest.

    His tousled dark brown hair was cked back. His mesmerizing grey eyes squinted when he saw her.

    His dark brows were actually graceful but were currently furrowed in a frown. Leng Shao stood up when he saw her and gazed at her. Su Bei couldn''t help but blush. A smile etched its way on Leng Shao''s face. Su Bei stared at him in a daze when she saw the dimples in the corners of his cheeks.

    ''How can someone look so handsome?''

    Clearing her throat, she said politely "Sir, sorry but I forgot to ask your name."

    "Leng Shao." He replied curtly.

    ''Leng Shao''. His name is even beautiful.

    Su Bei nodded, "Alright. I will get back to you in a few minutes."

    Leng Shao smiled, "Okay."

    Su Bei went back to her table and took a deep breath. She didn''t even realize how sweaty her palm is.

    Taking a deep breath, she walked to Yan Mei''s office and knocked on the door.

    "Come in." Yan Mei replied.

    "President Yan he said his name is Leng Shao. Should I let him in?"

    The color drained from Yan Mei''s face.

    "Leng Shao?"

    Su Bei arched her brows.

    "Yes. Are you okay?"

    Yan Mei looked up at Su Bei, "Yeah, I''m fine. Let him in."

    Yan Mei knew that there was no need to hide from Leng Shao now. Soon orter he was going to find out.

    A few minutester, Su Bei led Leng Shao in the office.

    Yan Mei and Leng Shao stared at each other for a couple of minutes. Seeing the awkward tension between them, Su Bei left them.

    ''Was there something between them?'' Su Bei thought as her mood dampened.

    "Why a cat got your tongue?" Yan Mei said sarcastically when she saw Leng Shao just standing there without saying anything.

    Leng Shao widened his eyes. That phrase, he used to tease Feng Mei with it anytime they were debating about something.

    "You.." he said pointing a finger at Yan Mei.

    "Long time no see, Leng Shao."

    Yan Mei said with a smile on her face.

 Chapter 85 Canâ€™t die yet.

    <h4>Chapter 85 Can''t die yet.</h4>

    Leng Shao froze when he heard her. Shock gripped his whole being.

    Memories shed through his eyes. He opened his mouth and closed it again.

    Words couldn'' exin what he was feeling at the moment¡ªa different mix of emotions spread across Leng Shao''s face.

    Happiness, relief, anger, sadness, self-me all these emotions rushed through his veins. He was happy that Yan Mei has finally acknowledged him, but his heart clenched, imagining all the things she might have gone through.

    "Feng Mei." Leng Shao muttered, swallowing the lump of emotions in his throat.

    "God¡­. it''s really you! I¡ªI¡­..oh my." Leng Shao became a bbering mess as he raked his fingers through his hair. A smile of relief made it''''s way on his lips. He felt he finally could breathe, now that his search was over.

    "You don''t know. I had been searching for you for years now. Then I finally found, but you treated me so coldly; I couldn''t sleep for days because I thought you were angry with me, so you were pretending not to know me." Leng Shaoined.

    Yan Mei stared at him with her eyes scrunched, but she said nothing.

    "Where have you been? Are you alright? How did you be the young miss of the Yan family?" Leng Shao asked endless questions, but Yan Mei just stared at him.

    Yan Mei has never seen Leng Shao this riled up before. He was always calm and always had his signature smile that would pop those dimples at the corners of his cheeks out on his face.

    "It''s nice to see you lose your cool for the first time." Yan Mei chuckled as she crossed her arms across her chest.

    Leng Shao nearly vomited blood when he heard her. He was going crazy looking for her for years, and the only thing she could say to him is this?

    "You.."

    Yan Mei pointed at the chair in front of her, "I don''t think you would want to stand all day. Take a seat."

    Leng Shao heaved a sigh and strode towards the chair. Once seated, Yan Mei asked him, "How are you, Leng Shao?"

    Leng Shao stared at the woman in front of him. She looked so familiar at the same time, different.

    "Seeing that you''re still alive, I''m good."

    Yan Mei smiled, "I can''t die yet. Some people still owe me."

    Leng Shao just stared at her for a couple of seconds, "You have changed Feng Mei. I don''t know if I should be happy that you can now protect yourself or be sad because I have lost my cute and shy friend I could tease all day."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes, "Feng Mei is dead, Leng Shao. She died the night her husband threw her on the streets with no proper exnation."

    Leng Shao''s heart clenched, and he darted his gaze around the office.

    "Sorry." He muttered.

    Yan Mei squinted her eyes, "Sorry? What for?"

    Leng Shao balled his hands into a fist.

    "I''m sorry. I-it''s all because of me. If I-"

    Yan Mei chuckled mirthlessly.

    "Don''t me yourself. Its-"

    "No, you don''t understand. He¡­" Taking a deep breath, he continued.

    "He thinks you cheated on him with me."

    "Oh, that." Yan Mei retorted perfunctorily.

    "You know?" Leng Shao''s heart skipped a beat. ''Does this mean she knows that he has been secretly in love with her for years?''

    "Yes. I met him a few days ago and let''s say we had a delightful conversation."

    Hurt flickered in Yan Mei''s eyes.

    "What did- he say?" he queried nervously.

    Yan Mei shrugged.

    "Nothing I haven''t heard before. Let''s stop talking about irrelevant people."

    Yan Mei said tly. Leng Shao heard the indifference in Yan Mei''s tone. ''Does this mean she really has no feelings for Wang Lu again?''

    Leng Shao smiled and nodded.

    "So, do you know the person responsible for all of this?" Leng Shao asked since he was finding it difficult to investigate this case.

    Yan Mei shook her head.

    "How would investigating this change what has already happened?"

    After Yan Mei woke up from thea, her father wanted to investigate the person responsible for all of this, but¡­ so much had already been destroyed, and the truth hardly mattered anymore.

    Pain shed through Leng Shao''s eyes. He didn''t want her name to be tainted. He knows how much society frowns on women who cheat on their husbands. If the news gets leaked that she had cheated on her husband before, her reputation would be destroyed. So he tried to convince her.

    "I know you have gone through a lot, but we can prove you¡­"

    Yan Meiughed manically when she heard him.

    "Prove?!" Yan Mei leaned on the desk and stared into Leng Shao''s eyes. Leng Shao''s breath hitched when he saw the emotions swelling in her eyes.

    "Can''t you see it doesn''t matter anymore. Nothing will change the ----sleepless nights, the suicide attempts¡ª"

    Breaking the eye contact, she looked at the ceilings, "Nothing will bring back... my dead child¡­..Absolutely nothing!" Her icy tone was undercut with a choking heaviness that forced her to pause several times.

    Saying these words made her recall the night her father had given the callous news that her child wasn''t anymore. A single tear spilled from her eyes. But thinking about the promise she made to Lei Zhao to not cry again, she quickly wiped it away.

    Leng Shao''s heart stopped as he found himself rooted in his seat. His stomach twisted as time seemed to slow.

    He couldn''tprehend what he has heard.

    ''Suicide¡­.child. She was pregnant!''

    The sound of someone opening the door snapped both of them out of their daze.

    Su Bei squinted her eyes. She could see something was wrong, but she couldn''t pinpoint what was wrong.

    "Sorry, I knocked, but nobody answered. I thought he was doing something to you." Su Bei exined as she red at Leng Shao. Even though he was handsome and had a crush on him, she wouldn''t let him hurt her friend.

    Clearing her throat. Yan Mei asked, "It''s okay. What is it?"

    Hearing the crack in Yan Mei''s voice. Su Bei turned to look at Leng Shao, who had an indescribable emotion on his face.

    "What did you do to her?!" Su Bei bellowed.

    Leng Shao looked up at Su Bei and shook his head. He doesn''t think he could speak now. He was afraid he might break down if he did.

    "He did nothing, Su Bei. Mr. Leng and I are good friends." Yan Mei defended him.

    "Oh, sorry. I thought he was bullying you."

    Warmth coursed through Yan Mei. What would she do without her friend?

    "So, what were you going to say?"

    Su Bei scratched her nose.

    "You have a meeting with the executives in five minutes."

    Yan Mei nodded.

    "Alright." Su Bei red at Leng Shao before leaving them alone.

    "Feng-Yan Mei¡­" Leng Shao called her when Su Bei left.

    "Just go, Leng Shao. I have a meeting." She said, shaking her head.

    "But-"

    "Just¡­go," Yan Mei''s voice was so fragile as if it would break any moment.

    "I will, but I will prove both of us innocent. Feng Mei. I will let him beg for your forgiveness and destroyed those who nned all of this. Wang Lu will reget not trusting you. I promise you, Muffin."

    Leng Shao stood up helplessly as he left the office. Unbeknownst to him, some promises are not meant to be fulfilled because we might lose ourselves achieving it.

 Chapter 86 Brother-zoned

    <h4>Chapter 86 Brother-zoned</h4>

    Author''s quote : *At times, the viin isn''t the bad person. You just have to look a little closer to see that your demons are closer than you think*

    Yan Mei''s mouth twisted when she saw Su Bei stealing nces at her while nibbling on her bottom lip. She had noticed her friend''s weirdness the moment she entered her office. A gleam passed through Yan Mei''s eyes.

    "Okay, spill it. What do you want to know?" Yan Mei queried.

    Su Bei drew in a long breath before looking up from the documents she was arranging on Yan Mei''s table.

    "That-"Su Bei trailed off, looking at Yan Mei.

    "The man who came here this morning-"

    "Leng Shao?" Yan Mei interrupted her.

    Su Bei nodded. "Yes."

    Yan Mei''s right eyebrows shot up.

    "What about him?" Yan Mei asked as she drummed her fingers on the table, waiting for Su Bei to speak.

    "Were you guys in a rtionship? Like were you guys romantically involved?"

    Su Bei asked as she gazed at the floor.

    "Uh-hm," Yan Mei replied with her voice thick with amusement. She was clearly enjoying Su Bei''s gawkiness.

    Su Bei''s shoulders hunched when she heard Yan Mei.

    "Oh," she said with disappointment evident in her voice. Even though she liked Leng Shao, there is no way she would fantasize or have a crush on her best friend''s ex or the guy she was romantically involved with. That''s breaking the girl''s code.

    "You like him." Yan Mei said with certainty.

    A flush crept on Su Bei''s face as embarrassment racked her.

    "No, I don''t!"

    Yan Mei chuckled, "Yeah, and tomatoes are ck. I believe you." She said sarcastically.

    "I really don''t." Su Bei quickly retorted.

    Yan Mei shook her head.

    "It''s okay if you like him. Leng Shao is a heartthrob that most women swoon over with that signature smile and dimples of his. If you are ready to fight with crazy fangirls, I''m ready to give you my blessings."

    Su Bei quickly looked up and met Yan Mei''s eyes flickering with amusement.

    "You-you don''t care that I have a crush on the guy you were romantically involved with?"

    Seeing the horrid look on Su Bei''s face, Yan Mei leaned back in her chair and burst intoughter.

    "Pftt...romantically involved?" Yan Mei tried to control herughter.

    Su Bei scrunched her face in confusion.

    Yan Mei could clearly see the confusion in Su Bei''s eyes, her words, and her attitude. Yan Mei could have enjoyed riling her up but thought against it and just smiled crookedly.

    "It would be fatal to get romantically involved with Leng Shao since I was already dating his best friend when I met him. The first day I met him at the bus station one rainy day as he put an umbre on my head and smiled softly at me. I knew I have earned myself an elder brother in the form of a potential friend."

    Yan Mei exined with a look of nostalgia on her face.

    "You know we became really good friends without knowing we both know one person inmon. I still remember the look on his face when he found out I was dating his best friend."

    A smile crept its way onto Su Bei''s face.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes, "Now stop acting like a teenager having her first crush and hurry. We will bete for the meeting."

    "Oh right," Su Bei hurriedly picked up the document needed for the meeting.

    Her movement paused when a certain man with a dimple shed through her eyes.

    ''I didn''t get to see him when he was leaving.'' Su Bei''s mood dampened. She doesn''t know when she will see him again.

    ******

    The moment Leng Shao got into the car, he took a deep breath to calm down his emotions. The information he had just obtained was too much for him to process. Clenching his fist, breathing heavy with an onught of emotions. Leng Shao sat in his car, immobilized for a long time.

    That stupid Wang Lu has really messed up big time. Because of his ego, he didn''t just lose his wife, who loves him more than anything. He also lost his-

    Leng Shao''s train of thoughts was interrupted by the sound of a ringing tone. He groaned as he picked up his phone. His furrowed brows softened when he saw the person calling him.

    "Mom." He called out softly.

    "Leng Shao!" Mrs. Leng excited voice reverberated in Leng Shao''s ears.

    "How are you?"

    "I''m good, Mom. What about you?"

    "I''m good. When will youe back home? I missed you. Come home, please!" She rambled.

    Leng Shao smiled, "I don''t know, mom. Especially now that I have met Feng Mei."

    Mrs. Leng stiffened on the other side of the phone. ''Did he just say he met Feng Mei?''

    "What did you say?!"

    Leng Shao knew how much his mother loved Feng Mei as her own daughter. He had seen how devastated his mother has been when Feng Mei had disappeared. She had used every resource she had to aid in his search for her.

    "Yes, Mom. Feng Mei is really alive."

    "Oh my God! Where is she? How is she? Is she okay?"

    Mrs. Leng asked excitedly.

    "Mom, don''t worry. She is okay." Leng Shao coaxed his mother.

    "Where is she? I want to see her."

    "Okay, mom. I will arrange for you toe to City S."

    "Alright!" Mrs. Leng couldn''t wait to see Yan Mei and hold her in her arms to confirm she is really alive.

    "See you soon, Mom."

    "Okay."

    Once Leng Shao ended the call, he tapped on the steering wheel while he fell into deep thought.

    He has to hurry up and find the person responsible for causing harm to the woman he loves. He wouldn''t rest until he has found the person, and once he does, he would make the person suffer a fate worse than death. A light shed through his eyes as he started his car.

 Chapter 87 Under arrest

    <h4>Chapter 87 Under arrest</h4>

    Yan Mei rubbed her neck as she looked through the reports submitted to her. She really wished she had someone to help her with all of this.

    ''I really should find a vice president quickly.'' Her phone rang, distracting her. Yan Mei picked up her phone; her brows bumped together when she saw the number was unknown. She was about to hang up, but something tugged at her heart, making her answer it.

    "Hello?" Yan Mei raised her brows.

    "Is this Mrs. Lei?" A baritone voice inquired on the other side of the phone.

    "Yes. I am. Who is this?" Yan Mei asked as a bad premonition raised in her heart. ''Only a few people know she is married to Lei Zhao. So who is calling her? Did something happen to Lei Zhao?''

    "I''m calling from the police station." Yan Mei''s heart skipped a beat in her chest.

    "Police?! Did something happened to Lei Zhao?" Yan Mei asked anxiously.

    "Yes, and No."

    Yan Mei scrunched her face. "What do you mean?"

    "I called to inform you you''re under arrest." Yan Mei rubbed her temples as she tried to calm down her beating heart.

    "Under arrest?"

    "Yes." The man, on the other side, replied tly.

    "What am I getting arrested for?" Yan Mei squinted her eyes.

    "For stealing my heart, Mrs. Lei." Anger glistened in Yan Mei''s eyes when she heard the person. The nerve of this person!

    She can''t believe she was worried about Lei Zhao for nothing. This was a prank call!

    "You''re crazy. Don''t call this number again or I will find you and make your life a living hell!"

    Just as Yan Mei was about to hang up the call, she heard Lei Zhao''s voice.

    "Yes, I''m crazy in love with you, Wifey. And I don''t mind being in hell as long as you''re by my side."

    Yan Mei''s heart fluttered for a second before she erupted in anger.

    "Lei Zhao!" Yan Mei bellowed as she pinched the space in between the bridge of her nose.

    Lei Zhao chuckled at the other side of the phone. They were testing a voice changing software, so he used it on his wife. He didn''t think she will be this angry.

    "You stupid man. I thought something had happened to you! How can you be this cheesy to set up such ame prank? How old are you, five?!"

    Lei Zhao scratched his head as he listened to his wife scolding him.

    "Sorry." He mumbled.

    "Sorry?! Will sorry changed the fact that I nearly got a heart attack because I was worried sick about you?"

    "¡­.." Lei Zhao was utterly speechless. He didn''t think his wife will overreact like this.

    He could hear her panting in anger.

    "Wifey¡­"

    "What?!" Yan Mei snapped, crossing her eyebrows in irritation.

    Lei Zhao flinched at her harsh tone. His wife is terrifying when she is angry. Lei Zhao mentally chided himself to not get on her bad side.

    "I''m really sorry. Please don''t be angry. I promise I won''t do it again".

    Yan Mei snorted. "Promise you won''t do it again?"

    Hearing Lei Zhao''s soft voice, she couldn''t bear to be angry with him.

    "Yes, I promise to be a good boy. I swear and cross my heart."

    Yan Mei shook her head helplessly as her lips stretched into a smile.

    "Any reason you called? Or you called just to prank on me?"

    "I called to inform you I made a dinner reservation tonight at 7."

    Yan Mei''s features softened when she heard him.

    "Anything else?"

    Lei Zhao chuckled, "Yes, I forgot to tell you something this morning." He stated teasingly.

    "What?"

    "I love you" Without waiting for her response, he ended the call.

    Yan Mei stared at the phone for a couple of minutes with a smile on her face.

    ***

    Lei Zhao parked the car in front of a fancy restaurant. Once they got down, a beautiful blonde greeted them.

    "Good evening, Mr. Lei. Pleasee this way." She beamed.

    Lei Zhao was a frequent customer here since the owner was Edward Wu. His friend.

    She led them, batting her fake eyshes and swaying her hips sensually to seduce Lei Zhao.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes when she saw the woman trying so hard to get Lei Zhao''s attention.

    "Here you go. The waiter wille to take your orders in a few minutes. Mr. Lei", she said, giving a quick nce at Yan Mei.

    Then she turned to Lei Zhao smiling at him, "Is there anything else you need, Sir?" She asked in a flirty tone

    Before Lei Zhao could make a response, he heard Yan Mei''s icy voice.

    "Is he handsome?" She asked the woman with a fake smile stered on her face.

    The woman widened her eyes. She wasn''t expecting Yan Mei to talk to her.

    "My husband, is he handsome?" Yan Mei repeated her question when she saw the woman staring at her with a weird look on her face.

    ''Husband!'' The woman swallowed nervously, thinking about the correct words to use. If she answers no, that means she is calling Lei Zhao ugly; if she answers yes, it means she is ogling her husband.

    The woman fidgeted under Yan Mei''s chilly eyes. She really didn''t want to lose her job! She thought Lei Zhao was just having dinner with a business partner. If she knew he was with his wife, she would never dare ignore Yan Mei and try to seduce her husband right under her nose.

    "I''m sorry, Mrs. Lei. Please forgive me."

    Yan Mei tapped her fingers on her cheeks as if she was thinking.

    "If I ever see you ogling at my husband with that pretty hazel eye of yours. I''m going to gouge them out. Understand?"

    The waiter nodded repeatedly.

    "Good, now scram!" Yan Mei said coldly

    A sly smile lined Lei Zhao''s lips. "Why is Mrs. Lei jealous now?" Lei Zhao asked after the woman left.

    Yan Mei snorted and ignored him.

    Lei Zhao chuckled. "You''re cute when you''re jealous."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes, "I''m not jealous!"

    Lei Zhaoughed, "Okay, I believe you¡­ you''re not jealous."

    He stated but didn''t sound so convinced.

    "I''m really not jealous!" Yan Mei continued to defend herself.

    Lei Zhao just nodded and grinned.

    "Yeah, of course. You''re not."

    "You-"The waiter appeared and interrupted Yan Mei, causing the words to die in her mouth.

    "Hello, I''m Eric, and I will be your waiter for the night." The waiter said politely as he shifted his eyes back and forth at them.

    He handed the menu to each one of them. "Here is the menu."

    "I will have marinated steak, baked potatoes with onion sour cream, green bean and yellow pepper sd.

    The waiter nodded and turned to Lei Zhao, who was staring at Yan Mei the whole time she was ordering.

    Yan Mei narrowed her eyes, "What?"

    "Nothing." Lei Zhao said as he turned to the waiter.

    "Will have the same thing she is having."

    A few minutester, the waiter brought their food. Their dinner went well, they both had a casual conversation with Yan Mei telling Lei Zhao about meeting Leng Shao.

    Lei Zhao was happy that his wife has met an old friend. Once they finish eating, Lei Zhao paid the bills.

    He took her hand in his as they head out of the restaurant. When they reached the door, they stopped in their tracks when they saw the person standing at the entrance.

 Chapter 88 Meeting the ex.

    <h4>Chapter 88 Meeting the ex.</h4>

    Yan Mei''s eyes met Wang Lu before Wang Lu''s eyes turned to look at Lei Zhao beside her. A look of shock shed through his eyes when he saw Lei Zhao. Wang Lu never thought Yan Mei''s husband was Lei Zhao! He had met the man once at a business summit and he has to admit he was a worthy opponent.

    Jealousy and anger brewed in Wang Lu''s eyes when he saw them holding hands. He really underestimated this woman. She even found a sessful man like Lei Zhao and charmed him.

    He was suffering every day while she had moved on so easily even going on a date! In his rage, a storm so strong that he was afraid will rip his inside out coursed through him.

    Yan Mei realized both men were shooting daggers at each other. Lei Zhao clenched Yan Mei''s hand, he could see the madness flickering in Wang Lu''s eyes.

    "Let''s go." Yan Mei said, breaking the cold silence.

    Wang Lu smiled when he heard her, his smile filled with hate. His mind corrupted with jealousy.

    "Why Meimei, you wouldn''t even introduce your husband to me?"

    Molten rage coursed through Lei Zhao when he heard the endearment Wang Lu was calling Yan Mei.

    ''Meimei'' How dare he!

    "Excuse me, but who are you? Why should I introduce my sweetheart to you?" Yan Mei seethed.

    Wang Lu clenched his fist.

    "Dear ex-wife, Don''t tell me you have already forgotten me?"

    Yan Meiughed mirthlessly, "Sorry¡­I don''t remember irrelevant people"

    A growing menacing smirk appeared on Wang Lu''s lips.

    "But women never forget the mam who took their first time, right Mr. Lei?" Wang Lu taunted as a gleam of deviltry passed through his eyes. He smirked when he saw the insane rage that shed through Yan Mei''s eyes before continuing.

    "So how can you forget me?"

    Yan Mei knew he was taunting her, he wanted her to lose control but she wouldn''t give him the pleasure.

    Just as she was about to respond she heard Lei Zhao''s calm voice, "Yeah, if only it''s worth remembering. Then women don''t forget the man who took their first time."

    Yan Mei froze and turned to look at Lei Zhao. His features were aloof and neutral with an air of superiority surrounding him as he red menacingly at Wang Lu. He lookedpletely different from his usual bubbly self.

    Lei Zhao turned to look at Yan Mei when he felt her gaze on him. He smiled softly and ruffle her hair tenderly.

    A muscle under Wang Lu''s left eye twitched for the uncontroble fury erupting inside him, He balled his fists until his knuckles turned white. When he heard Lei Zhao. The man just bluntly told him he wasn''t a good performer, that''s why the memory of him had never marked its ce in Yan Mei''s mind. This is an attack on his pride.

    Trying not to show weakness, Wang Luughed as indifferently as he could muster, "Oh but I think I was good. I can still remember how she shivered at my touch, her swollen lips and flushed cheeks as sheid underneath me moaning and screaming my name in pleasure, begging me-"

    "Wang Lu!" Yan Mei bellowed in anger, interrupting him.

    Wang Lu cocked his head, his devious eyes shing with amusement. His lips curled into a sinister smirk as he looked at Lei Zhao. He wanted to see how he would react, but the smirk on his face slowly disappeared when he saw Lei Zhao''s indifferent face. His eyes giving nothing away as if his words have no effect on him.

    Wang Lu arched a brow. He was growing more irritated by Lei Zhao''s indifferent and nonchnt face. ''Shouldn''t he be angry that I''m taunting his wife? Or he doesn''t love her as I thought.'' Wang Lu didn''t know how Lei Zhao was able to stay calm after everything he had just said.

    Unbeknownst to Wang Lu, Lei Zhao was beyond angry. Rage was flowing through him likeva. But he knew better. There was no way he would give Wang Lu the pleasure of seeing him lose control.

    A mischievous glint passed through Lei Zhao''s eyes, his lips curling into a sneer.

    "Oh". Lei Zhao said perfunctorily.

    "Anyway, it''s all in the past. I''m sure she doesn''t remember it since my performance has overshadowed yours, right Wifey?"

    Yan Mei stifled augh when she saw the horrid look on Wang Lu''s face. It''s like he wasn''t expecting Lei Zhao to be this shameless and retort like this.

    "Yeah, good memories always overshadow the bad ones."

    Yan Mei replied.

    Lei Zhao shrugged, "You heard thedy. Now if you would excuse us, My wife is tired, so we will leave now."

    Without waiting for his response Yan Mei and Lei Zhao left Wang Lu fuming in anger.

    Suddenly they heard Wang Lu''s devilish voice behind them, "Once a cheater, always a cheater. I hope Mr. Lei will remember this. We wouldn''t want the almighty Lei empire to copse because of a woman right?"

    Lei Zhao felt Yan Mei stiffened, her palms suddenly became mmy.

    Lei Zhao turned around and nodded, "Thank you for your advice, Mr. Wang. I will remember it. I hope you will remember mine too"

    Wang Lu scrunched his face, "What?"

    "I heard your marriage broke down because it wascking trust andmunication, right? Not that I''mining since one man''s meat is another man''s poison as they say. Also, it gave me the opportunity to meet my beautiful wife. If you get the chance to get married again. I hope you have these things."

    Lei Zhao said with a smirk stered on his face.

    Wang Lu felt pressure on his heart, a sick feeling in his gut when he heard him. His eyesced with pain and jealousy. He wanted to wipe that sinister smirk from Lei Zhao''s face but the man has already left before he could reply.

    *****

    When they reached home, Lei Zhao pulled Yan Mei into his arms and pressed a kiss on her forehead.

    "Wifey, I hope he didn''t spoil your night."

    Yan Mei shook her head and smiled softly, "No. With you by side, irrelevant people can not affect my mood."

    Lei Zhao grinned, "Good, go take a shower. I have to make a business call at the study room I will join you soon."

    Yan Mei nodded and turned to leave. But Lei Zhao held her hand and turned her around.

    "What?" Yan Mei asked as confusion marred on her forehead.

    "I forgot to do this". Lei Zhao said as he captured her lips into a fiery kiss. The kiss lingered for a minute before he reluctantly pulled away.

    Lei Zhao nibbled her ear, "Wifey, you still owe me."

    Yan Mei blushed and pushed him away, "I will be waiting for you."

    She winked at him and ran off while giggling.

    Lei Zhao''s eyes shed with affection as he grinned.

    When Yan Mei was wiping her hair after she finished bathing, it started raining suddenly and thunderstorm rumbled. Yan Mei froze by the streaks of lightning. '' As if the day couldn''t get any worse.''

    She really didn''t want to be alone. The rain brought along bad memories, memories that consumed her.

    She left the room and walked towards the study room in search for Lei Zhao. Just as she was about to reach the study, the lights went out suddenly. Yan Mei stiffened as a bolt of lightning lit up the room.

    Lei Zhao quickly hung up the call when saw it was raining. He still remembered Grandpa Yan telling him how much his wife hates the rain. He really hopes she is okay.

 Chapter 89 Donâ€™t go

    <h4>Chapter 89 Don''t go</h4>

    Adrenaline pumped through Lei Zhao as he rushed to the bedroom. Because he was fluttered he didn''t even bother ncing at the living room when he passed by. If he had, he would have seen a figure sitting at a corner in the living room.

    "Wifey!" Lei Zhao anxiously called out in the bedroom, but no one answered. His heart hammered in his chest as terror stabbed his heart. He frantically searched the whole room, but he couldn''t even find a shadow of her. Lei Zhao''s terror mounted with every step he took towards the bathroom. He knew she was taking a shower.

    ''Was she inside? Did she¡­.''

    His line of thoughts trailed off as he closed his eyes and heaved a sigh. Opening his eyes, he opened the bathroom and searched for her with the aid of his phone''s shlight, but it was empty. He breathed a sigh of relief. Fortunately, she wasn''t in here or he is afraid the worst-case scenario would have happened.

    "Yan Mei!" he roared with his voice edged with panic, but dead silence greeted him back.

    ''Where is she?''

    Lei Zhao searched every corner of the house like a madman as dread gnawed at his insides. Maybe because he was hysterical, he forgot to search one ce; the living room. The ce he had always passed by during his search.

    Without him knowing, every second he wasted his wife was losing bits of her sanity at a corner in the living room.

    Yan Mei''s inner demons were louder tonight. They were taunting her, reminding her of her darkest moments. Whispering how pathetic and unloved she was. Telling her, her own child didn''t want a monster like her as a mother, that''s why she died.

    Bad omens like her don''t deserve happiness; they had taunted while crawling in her brain like unwee pests. Making her feel down and worthless.

    She hated this feeling; she wanted the voices to stop, but like bullies, they never listen to their victims'' plea.

    She was sitting on the floor hugging her knees to her chest with her face buried between them. She rocked her body side to side as she felt her heart heaving uncontrobly, but she wasn''t even sure if she was crying or not. She hoped Lei Zhao would find her soon. Suddenly there was a loud p of thunder causing her blood to freeze in her veins.

    Panic surged through Lei Zhao when he couldn''t find Yan Mei. Running a frustrated hand through his hair, he tried to think about the ce he had missed in his search. His brows knitted together, then suddenly his eyes widened as a light bulb went off in his head. ''The living room!''

    Lei Zhao ran quickly to the living room, not paying heed to the pain that ran through his veins when his leg hit a table. When he reached the living room, he looked around but he couldn''t find her.

    "Yan Me-"

    Lei Zhao''s words got caught in his throat when he saw a figure sitting at a corner hiding behind a furniture. His heart lurched when he saw Yan Mei sitting on the floor, hugging her knees to her chest with her face buried between them.

    "Wi-fey.." he mumbled with raw panic in his voice.

    Yan Mei didn''t respond, but she was repeatedly chanting words he couldn''tprehend. Lei Zhao hurriedly strode towards her, he held her shoulders and shook her once he reached her. But Yan Mei was far gone in her abyss to feel someone shaking her.

    "Yan Mei!"

    He yelled, which caused Yan Mei to wake up from whatever trance she was in. She slowly looked up and met Lei Zhao''s eyesced with concern. She froze for her moment as her empty eyes roamed his face.

    Seeing her giving him a nk look with her pale face. Lei Zhao felt like his heart was being ripped out of him. He pulled her into his arms and hugged her.

    Yan Mei struggled in his arms and pushed him away. Lei Zhao was not holding her tightly because he was afraid to hurt her, so he was easily pushed away by her making him fall on his bottom.

    Terror overtook her face as she held her head, shaking the voices out of her head.

    "I''m fine¡­fine-I''''m---fine. No-no, he loves me. He wouldn''t leave me¡­"

    She chanted as her eyes darted around the room until they stopped on Lei Zhao, who was staring at her.

    Lei Zhao was mute with horror. Sadness, fear, and frustrations almost overwhelmed him. He had no idea what to do or how to even react. He was afraid he would cause more damage to her.

    Recognitions finally dawned on Yan Mei''s face.

    "Lei¡ªZhao" She whispered as she gripped his hands, his shirt, and buried her face in his chest. Yan Mei sobbed into his chest. Pain, fear, exhaustion, and frustration bubbling uncontrolled within her.

    Lei Zhao held her cold body tightly, trying to warm her up. Yan Mei''s body was tense, pressed up against him.

    "Sorry..I didn''t find you earlier."

    He mumbled softly, then he scooped her from the floor and hugged her to the bedroom. Lei Zhao ced her gently on the bed, held her close for a moment, then nted a kiss on her forehead.

    He decided to look for warm clothes for her since she was wearing a crop top and shorts, making her body freaking cold. Lei Zhao got down from the bed in search of a sweater for her but she gripped his shirt stopping him in his tracks.

    "Don''t---go." She pleaded as she pulled his shirt.

    "Alright." Lei Zhao said as he smiled softly at her. He unbuttoned his shirt and helped her to wear it.

    Once he finished heid on the bed beside her and pulled her into his arms hugging her tightly. Lei Zhao covered them with the quilt.

    Yan Mei sobbed into his chest unceasingly, her hands clutching his innerwear vest. Lei Zhao held her in silence, rocking her slowly as her tears soaked his chest. A few minutester, Yan Mei felt her eyes growing heavier and heavier. Finally, she closed her eyes as her mind dragged her into the oblivion of sleep.

 Chapter 90 A fatherâ€™s fear.

    <h4>Chapter 90 A father''s fear.</h4>

    Somewhere out there, a man was standing in front of a floor to ceiling window. His left hand was in his pocket while his right hand held a ss of whiskey. He scrunched his handsome features that could rival with a Greek God into a frown as he stared absently out the window at the rain. His heart was uneasy because he knew the rain always triggered her trauma without warning.

    He really hopes that she is okay and hasn''t lost her sanity. Images of him opening the bathroom to see blood stains spilling over the edges of the tub with herying inside, spiraled and covered from head to toe with blood shed through his mind.

    Shutting his eyes, he tried to block out those images as anxiety eclipsed his thoughts. A murderous glint passed through his eyes once he opened them.

    Such a shame his daughter had stopped him from killing that bastard responsible for her plight. He was going to make him pay for every tear that had spilled from his daughter''s eyes.

    His daughter was supposed to grow into a happy and bright princess, but that man broke her emotionally. No matter how much she trained to be the best fighter or tried to put on a strong mask, she couldn''t ovee her traumas.

    Zheng Ren knew she had gone through a lot when her mother and step-father died. The guilt had crawled inside her and had slowly fed on her conscience, ming her for their death, but she had kept to herself and pretended she was okay. Then those cruel words of that bastard''s mother had made her feel worthless and had low-esteem.

    Losing her husband and child in one night had driven her dangerously close to madness. Fortunately, he had gotten to know all of this during her therapy sessions. Hopefully, one day she ovees it and finds happiness.

    "Sir, the young Miss is married now. I''m sure her husband will take care of her." A brooding man whose features were hidden in the darkness suddenly spoke.

    Zheng Ren took a sip of his whiskey as his mouth set into a hard line. If he knew his daughter was going to get married to please that old man, he would have never allowed it!

    He didn''t want his daughter to depend on a man again. Men should cower in her presence; that''s what he has been teaching these past few years.

    He was molding her into a heartless and powerful woman, but she always made decisions with her heart instead of her mind. Warriors are supposed to decide with their minds, not their hearts, because their hearts make them vulnerable. He had repeatedly told her this, but she had failed him the moment she had agreed to this whole charade by the Oldman.

    She even got drugged by some worthless jerk, just because she wanted to go on a date like an ordinary woman for once. If it was an enemy and the drink was poison, she would have died. He was beyond furious when he got to know this, but he knew she still believed in humanity somehow after everything she had gone through.

    He couldn''t me her, though; somehow, she was like her mother. Too soft-hearted for her own good.

    "What do you think of that, man?" Heaving a sigh, he queried with his voice thick with concern.

    "Observing from the shadows, I can say he really loves her."

    Zheng Ren snorted, "Love?" The corners of his eyes crinkled.

    "Didn''t her first husband also imed to love her? But what did he do?"

    The man swallowed and shivered as he felt the temperature in the room decreasing.

    "That-"

    "You can''t fully im you love someone without going through trials together. Trials test how deep your love is." Zheng Ren interrupted the man. Gulping down his whiskey, he turned to look at the man who has been his right-hand man for years.

    "Make sure to keep an eye on her. I can''t afford to lose her again."

    He ordered as he walked past the man in the shadows.

    "Sir..." The man called out nervously.

    Zheng Ren stopped in his tracks, waiting for him to speak.

    "That man, he-he-is back."

    A line etched between Zheng Ren''s brows. He knew he would not like the answer his right- man would give.

    "Who?" He questioned.

    "Miss''s ex-husband. He is in city S too."

    The moment the words left his mouth, he felt the hair on the back of his neck stood up. His body went cold with dread as he felt the room spinning.

    "You''re telling me this now!" Zheng Ren roared as veins popped out of his neck. His worried eyes gazed at the rain out of the window.

    If his daughter had met that man, then her breakdown would be worst tonight. He had to see her for himself, or he would be restless throughout the night.

    The man''s mouth went dry, his hands were cold and mmy as he sweated with fear.

    "S-orry," his words thick with panic.

    Zheng Ren shot him a deadly re before rushing through the door in a hurry, ignoring him.

    The man breathed a sigh of relief when his master rushed through the door. Even though he knew he would definitely be punished once his masteres back.

    *****

    Zheng Ren stared at his daughter sleeping in a man''s arms; her face was streaked with tears, her eyes puffy even in sleep. He felt his heart lurched.

    Zheng Ren couldn''t imagine what she had gone through tonight. He wanted to caress her face

    , but he was afraid he would wake Lei Zhao up. His brows knitted as he gazed at Yan Mei. She looked so vulnerable and weak right now that he felt that his heart was being ripped out from his heart.

    Zheng Ren saw Lei Zhao stirring up, his brows puckered. ''This man is really interesting; he could even detect my presence.''

    Zheng Ren thought as an unknown glint passed through his eyes.

 Chapter 91 Will she ever love me?

    <h4>Chapter 91 Will she ever love me?</h4>

    Ying Sheng stared at the sky, which was dark as te, the wind blowing the rain straight into her face. She couldn''t believe how bad her luck was. She had jumped over the wall just to meet Han Xin because she knew her mother wouldn''t let her go out thiste in the night.

    Han Xin had promised to take her to a new club tonight, and she had wasted two hours just to dress up for him. Something she has never done for a man before. She just wanted him to notice her, Yeah, the bad girl was desperate for her crush to notice her. Maybe she needed that validation that she could also be loved. That she wasn''t a monster that nobody likes, but perhaps she really is. Nobody wants her around or wants to spend time with her.

    A trace of sadness shed through her eyes. She had been stood up by him again. She had been standing here waiting for him for two hours now, but there was no sign of him. He was also not picking up his phone. Ying Sheng knew he will give excuses when the day ends.

    He will offer ame excuse and pretend he did nothing wrong. And all she will do is retort that she wasn''t even waiting for him like every time he stood her up. They say love can make the strongest woman act like a fool, and they couldn''t be any right.

    Ying Sheng chuckled mirthlessly. She was so stupid thinking he would change and for once be his number one priority. The rain blurred her vision as she stared at the sky, opening her mouth, the tiny dropsnded on her tongue as she waited for it to wash her away misery.

    Ying Sheng didn''t want to feel this sadness, loneliness. She would rather lie in her bathtub right now with a beer in her right hand and a cigarette in the other. Then she would take a long puff of the cigarette to release the darkness that was about to consume her. That would help her feel nothing but numbness. No sadness. No pain. No hurt, andstly, she wouldn''t have meaningless expectations.

    Liam frowned as he listened to the news on the radio in his car. A storm was about to hit, and they were cautioning people to be careful.

    Apparently, Liam had attended yet another tortuous meeting with the executives of hispany. Not like he was paying attention to whatever they were sprouting. A certain red-haired had consumed his mind throughout the session. He had not seen her for days after theirst meeting; he hopes she is okay.

    A thunder crackled low and heavy at that moment, snapping him out of his thoughts. Softly sshing water droplets hit his car window as he drove. The skies were overhung with a nket of grey, so much he could barely distinguish between the sky and clouds.

    His windscreen pping, his eyes almost popped out of their sockets as they fell on a familiar figure. She had tilted her head back as she stared at the sky with the rain falling on her face.

    "What is she doing here?" Liam muttered to himself.

    ''Was she nning on running in the middle of the road again?''

    His car screeched in front of her. Not expecting it, Ying Sheng jumped back in surprise.

    She rxed when she saw it was Liam getting out of the car.

    "What are you doing here?" Ying sheng questioned as she gazed at him.

    "Shouldn''t I be the one asking you that question? Don''t you know you will get sick standing in the rain?!" Liam scolded.

    Ying Sheng blinked as she stared at the man in front of her. ''Is this really her Cutie? She hasn''t seen him for a few days, and he has be this fierce.''

    "I-I was waiting for Ha-" Ying Sheng trailed off as she heaved a sigh.

    Liam''s eyes narrowed when he realized- a few of her words registered in his brain. Especially the waiting part.

    ''So she was waiting for that guy in the rain?'' Liam felt a pang in his heart, but he quickly masked the pain brewing in his eyes.

    "Let''s go." He said as he took her hand and led her to his car.

    He saw that the ck dress she was wearing, which was now drenched, fitted her like a second skin, outlining every curve, dip, and nook of her body.

    Liam felt heat rushing to his cheeks. Clearing his throat, he averted his gaze.

    "Are-you cold?" Liam queried softly.

    Ying Sheng, who was staring at the window, turned to look at him and nodded.

    Liam turned on the heater in the car and started the car.

    Ying Sheng looked at the scenery along the way. The cold started creeping inside her, making her shiver.

    Standing in the rain was a bad idea. She sneezed, which cause Liam to turn to look at her.

    "Are you okay?"

    Ying Sheng stifled a sneeze with an index finger under her nose and nodded.

    "Yeah."

    Taking a deep breath, he asked, "Do you want to go to my ce?"

    Once the words were out of his mouth, he squeezed his eyes shut and mentally pped himself.

    "No-no-no¡­it''s not what you''re thinking."

    Ying Sheng stared at him, saying nothing. If it was a typical day, she would have teased him, but not today.

    "I mean, we are both wet- from the rain, and you seem to get a cold since my house is closer¡ªI."

    Ying Sheng just nodded and turned to look throughout the window.

    Liam was excited because he would take a woman home for the first time; his mood dampened when she realized Ying Sheng was in a grim mood.

    ''Was she sad because of that guy?'' He felt a sudden ache in his chest.

    ''Will she ever like me?'' Liam asked himself as his brows bumped together. He nced at her and focused back on the road.

 Chapter 92 Disgrace

    <h4>Chapter 92 Disgrace</h4>

    When they reached Liam''s house, he entered a series of code, opened the door and gestured for her to enter.

    "Do you live alone?" Ying Sheng inquired as she removed her shoes.

    "Yeah, but my brother sometimeses here." He replied calmly.

    Ying Sheng nodded as she took in the sight of his apartment. It was simple and fitting for him. Suddenly she heard him gasped loud and sprung around to kick away Lucas''s boxer he had dropped onto the floor behind a sofa.

    ''That stupid man, he wouldn''t let him into his house again!'' Liam humped inwardly as he cussed his brother.

    Lucas suddenly sneezed and furrowed his brows. He felt like someone was cussing him.

    With an embarrassed face, he looked at Ying Sheng, who wasughing; her hands clutching her stomach. He stood fascinated, undoubtedly herugh was the best melody he has ever heard.

    "I¡ªI¡ªI," he cleared his throat and scratched the back of his neck. His ears were slightly red.

    "Let me prepare a hot bath for you."

    Ying Sheng tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and nodded.

    "Okay."

    Liam offered a soft smile at her. The moment he motioned towards the bathroom, the light went out.

    Liam froze. He had always had a phobia for darkness since he was a kid.

    "Liam.." Ying Sheng muttered, but he was too shaken by the sudden darkness to speak.

    "Liam!" Ying Sheng yelled, snapping him out of his stupor.

    "Ye-ah," he said with a shaky voice. Ying Sheng raised her brows.

    "Are you afraid of the darkness?"

    Liam swallowed and nodded.

    "Y-yes."

    Sighing, Ying Sheng turned on her phone''s shlight and strode towards him. She held his hands and realized they were cold and mmy.

    "Hey, don''t be afraid. I''m right here by your side."

    Liam looked at their locked hands and looked up to meet her eyes flickering with an unknown emotion.

    Ying Sheng smiled softly at him.

    "Do you a rechargeablemp or a srmp?"

    Liam nodded.

    ''Yeah, I had one installed because I''m afraid of darkness.

    With the aid of Ying Sheng''s phone shlight, Liam turned on a switch on the wall which caused the whole house to lit up.

    "Cool." Ying Sheng nodded.

    Liam smiled sheepishly. "Thank you."

    He said as he walked towards the bathroom and brought a towel.

    "Dry off and wait for me to prepare the bath." Ying Sheng nodded and took off her leather jacket. Underneath, she had a strapless ck dress with short sleeves, which entuated all her curves.

    She turned her back at him and started drying off her hair with the towel. Liam realized she had a snake tattoo on her left shoulder. It was a mixture of ck and red ink. It was beautiful. He wonders what it represents.

    Ying Sheng turned around and found him staring at her. Liam swallowed as he stared at her curvaceous body, which could be seen since the rain drenched her dress. Liam felt his cheeks heating with a familiar warmth as their eyes met. Ying Sheng lips curved into a naughty smile.

    "Like what you see?" she purred sexily as she threw a wink at him.

    Liam blushed, " I¡ªI¡ªI," he murmured nervously.

    "Let me prepare the bath for you, or you might catch a cold." He said as he dashed out of the room without waiting for her response.

    ''Does she even know what she is doing to me?'' Liam thought to himself as he quickly went inside the bathroom.

    Liam came back with a gigantic sweater for Ying Sheng.

    "The bathroom is the second door of the right."

    Ying Sheng nodded

    "Thank you."

    The bathroom was neat. Ying Sheng took off her wet dress that was already sticking to her body and stood in front of the bathroom mirror

    She looked like a hot mess with her disheveled hair, and her lips were blue, probably because of the cold. Ying Sheng stood before the mirror. Naked and emotionless.

    Her eyes dropped on the razor de, and she swallowed. She could hear them calling her. She ran her fingers on her inner thigh, feeling the marks the de had caused over the years.

    Ying Sheng knew people will call her crazy, a lunatic if they saw her scars. Others will use her of doing it for attention. She knew how judgmental humans can be. But only she knew how each scar had helped her sleep at night.

    Shutting her eyes, she tried to block the sounds out, then she got into the bathtub.

    Liam made two cups of ginger-tea for them after he took a bath in his bedroom. As he wasing from the kitchen with the cups, the door to the visitor''s bedroom opened, which caused him to instinctively turn around his head.

    His breath hitched when he saw Ying Shenging out of the room wearing his baggy sweater, which reached her mid-thigh, showing her long smooth legs.

    His mouth subconsciously opened as he watched her wiped off her wet hair with a towel; droplets of water falling down.

    Liam nearly had a heart attack. His hands loosened, making him lose grip of the cups.

    The cups hit the floor, making a loud sound that snapped him out of his daze.

    "Liam!" Ying Sheng called out worriedly.

    "Uh.." Slowly he averted his gaze from her and looked down. He saw blood dripped on the floor.

    He frowned as his brain finally registered that his nose was bleeding.

    He hurriedly tilted his head back and ced his index finger under his nose.

    "Are you alright? Make sure not to stand on the broken ss."

    Without warning, Ying Sheng came to stand beside him and ced a hand on his shoulder, which sent electric jolts through him.

    "Go and sit down. Let me clean this mess up."

    Liam awkwardly nodded.

    ''For the second time tonight, he had disgraced himself in front of the woman he secretly loves. Way to go, Liam." He mentally scolded himself.

 Chapter 93 Game

    <h4>Chapter 93 Game</h4>

    A few minutester, Ying Sheng padded across the room, holding two cups of ginger tea. She gave one to Liam and plunked down the sofa next to him.

    "So, what made you dropped the cups like that?! You could have gotten hurt." Ying Sheng queried, staring at him.

    "You." Liam blurted out before he could stop himself. He widened his eyes when he realized what he had said.

    "Me? What did I do?" Ying Sheng asked with a confused frown marred on her forehead.

    Liam fidgeted and stared at the cup he was holding.

    "I-You looked so-sexy- wearing my sweater that I.. just lost it." He said awkwardly.

    After what seemed like forever but clearly a few seconds, he took a risk and looked at her.

    He saw a devilish sparkle in her eyes.

    Ying Sheng slid closer to him, her eyes roaming his face.

    "Oh, so you had dirty thoughts seeing me in your sweater?" Ying Sheng whispered in his ears, her breathing heavily in the crock of his neck, making him shiver.

    Liam gulped, and his eyes widened when he realized how close they were. His heartbeat was erratic; clearly, he wasn''t expecting her to ask this. Liam didn''t know how to respond.

    ''Should I say yes?''

    He thought as he exhaled slowly, his chest dropping then rising.

    Ying Sheng grinned, "Do I make you nervous, Liam?" she asked, ying with the hem of his shirt.

    "Urm..I-"

    Ying Sheng chuckled and shook her head.

    "Do you have a beer?" Leaning back on the sofa, she inquired, cutting him off.

    Liam released the breath he had been unconsciously holding. Fortunately, she had changed the topic.

    "Ah, yes. My brother bought some thest time he came here."

    Ying Sheng beamed when she heard him.

    "Good!"

    Liam squinted his eyes, "Why? Do you want to drink?"

    Ying Sheng shook her head, "Nope, we are."

    Liam scrunched his face. Seeing his reaction, Ying Sheng raised her left brow.

    "Don''t tell me you have never had a beer before?"

    Liam flushed, scratched his nose, and shook his head.

    "No."

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes as she stared at him in bewilderment.

    "Hmm, Cutie, you''re too innocent."

    Ying Shengined as she picked the cup on the table and gulped down the ginger-tea.

    "Now, drink the tea, and let''s taint you a bit."

    Liam felt the blood rushing to his cheeks.

    ''What was she suggesting?''

    "Is it safe to drink beer after drinking this ginger-tea?" Liam asked worriedly.

    Ying Sheng chortled when she heard him.

    "Don''t worry, Cutie, you will live. Now hurry, and let''s y a game."

    Liam swallowed, "A game?"

    Ying Sheng nodded with a naughty smile on her face.

    "Yeah, it called two truths, one lie." Ying Sheng said.

    "Both of us will take turns, I will tell three things about myself, two are true, but one is not. So you will guess which one is the lie. If you get it wrong, you drink. If you get it right, I drink. Then you add a little background story to it."

    Ying Sheng exined with a wide grin.

    "Do you want to y?"

    Liam had never yed a drinking game before; scratch that he has never even drink before.

    Liam looked up and met her eyes, gleaming with expectations. He couldn''t bear to refuse so he nodded.

    "How long will it take?" He asked.

    "Until one of us ispletely wasted." She said with a wide grin.

    Liam went to bring two sses and the beers.

    A mischievous glint passed through Ying Sheng''s eyes.

    "Okay, I will start." Ying Sheng said as she bit the inside of her cheeks as if thinking about what to ask.

    "I''m scared of cats, I have kissed a girl before, I can sing."

    Liam blinked a couple of times before answering.

    "You are scared of cats."

    A wicked grin spilled from Ying Sheng''s lips.

    "Wrong!" She squealed.

    Liam widened his eyes in disbelief. He found the image of Ying Sheng being afraid of cats weird. How can the infamous Miss Ying fear cats?

    "Wait, you''re afraid of cats?"

    He asked, his mouth in opened in shock. Ying Sheng felt he looked cute.

    "Yeah, I have always been afraid of them since I was a kid."

    Ying Sheng said, refilling a ss for him.

    "Oh, so what is the lie?" Liam asked awkwardly.

    "As much as I will like to kiss a girl, I haven''t done it yet."

    Liam blushed, "Oh."

    Ying Sheng picked the ss for him, "Now drink."

    Liam started at the liquid in the ss and swallowed.

    "Hurry." Ying Sheng smirked.

    Liam closed his eyes and quaffed the shot in one gulp. The bitter taste spread in his mouth. His throat burned, and he tried not to grimace.

    Shaking his head, he covered his mouth with his hands.

    Ying Sheng threw her head andughed, amused by his reaction.

    "Cutie, how is it? Do you like it?"

    Ying Sheng asked. It seemed like she was having fun.

    "Well, it is okay. I guess."

    Ying Sheng grinned, "Don''t worry, you will fall in love with it once we are done with you."

    Liam rubbed the back of his neck.

    ''Why did he even agree to this?'' he inwardly sighed.

    "Your turn."

    Liam nodded, "I like fast foods, I like ice cream, I have kissed a girl before."

    Ying Sheng stared at him with a nk expression on her face. Then she suddenly bursted into fits ofughter, her hand trying to muffle the mischievousugh."

    "Seriously?" She asked, still cracking up.

    Liam''s face turned red, and he looked away, trying to hide his blush.

    "Cutie, I know you have kissed no one before. That is so easy!"

    She cleared her throat and beckoned at him, "Come closer."

    Liam narrowed his eyes, but he leaned over.

    "Closer." She repeated.

    Liam moved closer to her. Suddenly she traced her finger on his lower lips causing him to feel a shiver along his spine.

    In a sh, she kissed him.

    Liam widened his eyes as he felt sparks going off in his head.

    ''If this is a dream, I don''t want to wake up.''

 Chapter 94 Our little secret

    <h4>Chapter 94 Our little secret</h4>

    Ying Sheng pulled away, biting her lips a wicked smile spread across her lips.

    "I just stole the nerd''s first kiss." She remarked boastfully.

    Liam was shocked, and he couldn''t utter anything. Lots of thought were spiraling inside his head, making his brain chaotic.

    ''W-why did you do that?" He muttered as heat crept into his cheeks.

    "Nothing¡­ I just felt like kissing you." Ying Sheng said, shrugging.

    Liam''s brows snapped together, and he subconsciously touched his lips, which were slightly tingling from the kiss.

    "Cutie, are you angry?" Ying Sheng teased.

    Liam''s cheeks tainted red, and he shook his head.

    Ying Sheng smiled and pped her hands together.

    "Alright, now it''s my turn."

    "Oh," Liam mumbled softly.

    Liam felt like a knife has been stabbed into his heart. He had to admit he was a little agitated that she had taken his first kiss and acted like it was nothing.

    Her voice snapped him out of his thoughts, "I''m a virgin, I''m allergic to peanuts, I have two tattoos."

    "That''s easy," Liam mumbled.

    "You''re a virgin."

    A wicked grin spread from Ying Sheng''s lips. Her eyes sparkled as she tried not tough.

    "Wrong."

    "What?!" Liam squeaked as his right eyebrow shot up.

    "You''re lying, right?"

    Ying Sheng shook her head, and her eyes gleamed.

    "No¡­ I''m a virgin."

    She said, refilling the shot ss again.

    "I guess you will be the one drunk before the night ends."

    Liam was sitting in a daze. Awe transformed on his face as images of her teasing him of being a virgin bombarded his mind.

    "You¡­.are -really a virgin?!" He yelled, his forehead puckered.

    Ying Sheng ced her finger on his lip and gave him a lopsided grin.

    "Shsss ¡­it''s a secret. I have an image to uphold." She simpered.

    "But how...you talk like you have experienced the sheer euphoria of orgasm before."

    Liam didn''t know what gave him the courage- his shock or the alcohol.

    Ying Sheng burst out intoughter, "Cutie, the fact that I''m a virgin doesn''t mean I have zero knowledge about sex like you."

    Liam flushed and looked away, "Oh."

    Ying Sheng nodded, "Yeah, I have watched porn, masturbated, and made out with a couple of guys. I have just not popped my cherry yet. Understand?"

    Liam''s lips twisted into a radiant smile, and he nodded, "Why... haven''t you? I mean you¡ª"

    "None of those guys were worth it. As bad as I may seem, I believe sex is a special thing and it should be with someone you have strong feelings for."

    Ying Sheng said softly, cutting him off. Her eyes flickered with an intense emotion, but it was gone before he could decipher what he saw.

    Liam''s features softened when he heard her.

    "Cutie, this is our little secret. No one should know, okay?" Ying Sheng whispered.

    Liam grinned and raised his pinky finger.

    "Pinky promise?"

    Ying Sheng giggled and also raised her pinky finger and locked it together with his.

    "Pinky promise!" They said in unison as their gaze met.

    Liam swallowed; the way her gaze was melting his insides made him giddy.

    Ying Shengughed, breaking the silence. Liam couldn''t help but alsough, clearly amused by what they were doing.

    "Now, drink!"

    Liam pouted, "It''s not fair! "

    Heined bitterly as he gulped down the alcohol. He had just drunk two shots, but he was already starting to feel dizzy.

    "Nothing in this world is fair, Cutie. Always remember that."

    Ying Sheng retorted.

    "Now it''s your turn."

    "Ermm¡­.I have been seduced by a mature woman before, I have been to jail, and I can speak fournguages."

    Ying Sheng bit her lips, "Well, I know thest one is true, so is between the first and second one."

    A glint passed through Liam''s eyes, but he said nothing.

    "You have been seduced by a mature woman?"

    The corners of lips tugged into a sly smile, and he shook his head.

    "Nope! I''m trilingual."

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes.

    "So, you have been seduced by a mature woman and have gone to jail before?"

    A hint of pink flushed his cheeks. Ying Sheng raised her brows when she saw his reaction.

    "Holy sh*t!" Ying Sheng eximed.

    Liam reddened more at her words.

    "Well, my English teacher tried to seduce me once, when she asked me to bring some papers at her office."

    "Seriously!" Ying Sheng gasped, she was really shocked.

    "How old were you?"

    "Sixteen," Liam mumbled as he yed with his fingers.

    "What the hell?" Ying Sheng spat, as her forehead creased.

    "I did not see her again after that, so it''s good."

    Liam exined.

    Ying Sheng nodded, "What about going to jail?"

    Liam scoffed, remembering that day. "My brother and I saw a guy harassing a girl, and we beat him up. Unfortunately, his father was a policemander, so we got arrested."

    Ying Sheng narrowed her eyes, "My Cutie is a knight in shining armor saving a maiden in distress."

    She teased. Liam red at her, but she saw the smile that had spread on his lips.

    "Ha, ha. Funny. Now drink."

    Liam said as he refilled her ss for her.

    Ying Sheng picked it up and raised it towards him.

    "Cheers!" Then she gulped the drink in one shot.

    A few minutester, or maybe hours? Liam did not know. All he felt was his head spinning. He waspletely wasted.

    He gulped down onest shot before the game ended.

    "Cutie, you lost!"

    Ying Sheng eximed with a smirk on her face.

    "You nned this all along to get me drunk, right?!" Liammented, pouting.

    His face was flushed, and he looked so cute. Ying Sheng chuckled.

    "Correct."

    "Meanie," Liam mumbled.

    He furrowed his brows. "Why aren''t you drunk?"

    Ying Sheng leaned closer to him, "I never get drunk."

    She said while taking a sip of thest beer left.

    Liam shook his head. He can guarantee she drank a lot too more than he did.

    Looking at the confused frown on his face, Ying Sheng sighed.

    "I only get drunk when I''m sad, lonely, or want to forget any bad feelings." She exined.

    **double click to view author''s note.

 Chapter 95 Promise.

    <h4>Chapter 95 Promise.</h4>

    Yan Mei''s brows bumped together as she drifted into consciousness and then back out. The world was a blur, and random images spiraled in the pool of her thoughts. A tap of her shoulder momentarily made her little aware of her surroundings, but after a second, she was again lost.

    She could feel a gaze on her. She wanted to open her eyes to look at the person, but she couldn''t. Confusion blossomed in her heart as her head felt as if someone had shaken it until her brain was thoroughly bruised, her eyshes weighing more than it should.

    Lei Zhao stared at Yan Mei''s face, which was beet red, and her skin glistening with sweat made worried gnawed inside him. Her lips were puffed out.

    "Wifey¡­wake up," Lei Zhao whispered as he clutched her hand.

    "Lei-Zhao?"

    Yan Mei called out weakly as her eyes slowly open and met Lei Zhao''s eyes.

    "Lei-Zhao---I feel so weak."

    Sheined as waves of heat coursed through her. A cold sweat glistened on her gaunt features.

    "You have a fever."

    Lei Zhaomented as he removed the nkets off her and helped her sit up.

    Yan Mei licked at her parched and cracked lips, feeling the thickness of her saliva.

    "What time is it?" She inquired hoarsely.

    "Almost seven in the morning." Lei Zhao said as he wiped her sweaty neck and forehead.

    "How are you feeling? Dizzy?" His eyebrows drew together with concern as he studied her face, looking for signs of difort.

    Yan Mei nodded weakly, "Yeah, a little bit."

    She replied with a small chuckle at the end.

    "Stop looking as if I will die at any moment from now. It''s just a fever."

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh, "You don''t know how scared I was this morning when I woke and found out you were burning up."

    Yan Mei squeezed out a smile and rubbed the back of his hands.

    "Sorry¡­ I didn''t mean to let you worry." She said with guilt and embarrassment.

    "Silly¡­ if I don''t worry about you. Who will?"

    Carefully, Yan Mei''s brown eyes still puffy fromst night met Lei Zhao''s piercing eyes.

    The intensity of Lei Zhao''s gaze caused her to swallow.

    "T-thank you. For yesterday"

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh, "Don''t thank me. It was nothing."

    "Nothing?" Yan Mei allowed a weak smile toe forth on her lips.

    "It might be nothing for you, but for me¡­." Yan Mei trailed off and closed her eyes.

    "You saved me! If you hadn''t found me in time, only God knows what I would have done. I don''t even know if I would be still sane sitting here with you and--- "

    Yan Mei was cut off when Lei Zhao ced a hand on her lips. She looked at him and found him staring at her with an unknown emotion lingering in his eyes.

    "Nothing would have happened to you. I wouldn''t have allowed it,". Lei Zhao said once he removed his fingers from her lips.

    "But¡ªwhat if you didn''t find me in time? Or one day, you''re not there?"

    "I will always be there. Wherever and whenever you need me."

    To his remark, Yan Mei remained silent. After a few seconds, she finally spoke, "Promise?"

    Lei Zhao''s lips curved into a smile, "Promise."

    After saying that, he leaned closer and nted a kiss on her forehead.

    "Let''s get you cleaned up. Then I will call the doctor."

    Yan Mei pouted, "I don''t you to call the doctor. Just buy me medicine."

    Lei Zhao frowned, "Why?"

    "I-"

    Just as she was about to respond, the sound of a phone ringing interrupted them. Yan Mei blew out air when Lei Zhao stood up to answer the call.

    ''I don''t want to be teased by him when he realized I''m afraid of injection!'' Yan Mei inwardly sighed.

    "Hello?... Postponed the meeting today. Cancel all my schedules. Also, don''t disturb me."

    Lei Zhao paused for a moment before pinching the bridge between his nose.

    "I will deal with itter."

    Lei Zhaomanded, then hung up the phone without waiting for a response.

    Lei Zhao tossed the phone onto the bed before raking his fingers through his hair, his back facing Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei noticed his tension and called him.

    "Hey,¡­ it''s everything okay?" Lei Zhao stiffened for a second before he rxed and turned around.

    "If something urgent came up, you should go." Yan Mei said softly.

    Lei Zhao walked towards her. He plopped on the bed and scooped her into hisps.

    "Nothing is more important than you, Love."

    Yan Mei flushed and nodded slightly.

    "Now, let''s get you cleaned up." Lei Zhao said as he hugged her from the bed.

    Yan Mei threaded her arms around his neck. Her legs were tightly around his waist as he brought them to the bedroom.

    -------

    After Lei Zhao finished bathing Yan Mei and dressing her up, heid her gently on the bed.

    "Rest. I will let Ye Xing bring you medicine." He said as he nted a kiss on her forehead.

    Yan Mei weakly nodded.

    Lei Zhao gazed at her for a few seconds, "Go, I will not die if you leave me for a couple of minutes."

    Yan Mei teased.

    Lei Zhao frowned, "Don''t joke about dying."

    Yan Mei did an okay sign since she was getting weaker now. Her eyes lids were getting heavier by the seconds.

    Lei Zhao sighed and left to call Ye Xing to bring medicine and also request his mother to bring soup for her.

    "Mom.."

    Lei Zhao said the moment Lei Xiao Tong picked up the call.

    "Lei Zhao, what''s wrong?" Lei Xiao Tong asked when she heard the tiredness evident in his tone.

    "Mom, can you prepare soup for XiaoMei? She is not feeling well." Lei Zhaomented softly.

    "What?! Why¡ªwhat happened?" Lei Xiao Tong asked, concern thick in her voice.

    "She has a fever, mom."

    ?h! Alright, I will bring it as soon as possible."

    "Thanks, mom."

    Lei Zhao said as he hung up the call and strode towards the bedroom.

    He leaned on the door as he stared at Yan Mei, who had fallen asleep. A soft hand seems to touch her heart.

    A soft smile tugged at the corners of his lips, but that smile melted and congealed into a frown as he remembered something.

    He felt someone in their bedroomst night, but when he woke up, there was no one there, and there was no sign of a break-in.

    But Lei Zhao''s conscience was nagging him that someone was in the room. But who?

    The person must be very powerful since he could barely detect his presence. ''Was the person a friend or foe?''

    Lei Zhao rubbed the back of his neck. He made a mental note to increase the security in the house.

    He can''t risk putting her life in danger!

    He joined her on the bed by lying down beside her.

    "Lei Zhao?" Yan Mei mumbled when she felt his presence.

    "Did I wake you up? Sorr-"

    She interrupted his words as she opened her droopy eyes. Lei Zhao felt she looked cute.

    She moved closer to him and threw her legs over him.

    She ced her head on his chest as Lei Zhao wrapped his arms around her.

    Yan Mei smiled in content as she listened to the rhythm of her heartbeat.

    A few minutester, he felt her chest rising and down.

    Lei Zhao''s features softened.

    "I Love You." He whispered, but of course, Yan Mei didn''t reply. She was sleeping.

 Chapter 96 Love Rival Arrival

    <h4>Chapter 96 Love Rival Arrival</h4>

    Yan Mei woke up from her nap one hourter. Lei Zhao was still there next to her, fully awake and was watching her, his fingers raking through her hair in slow and leisurely strokes.

    A soft smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he stared at her.

    "Are you feeling better now?" He asked with concernced in his voice.

    Yan Mei smiled back at him, but she winced in pain since her lips were cracked slightly at the corners.

    "Water." She muttered hoarsely. Instantly Lei Zhao reached for the ss on the nightstand and brought it to her lips.

    Yan Mei sighed at the relief the water had on her dry mouth and throat.

    "You are still burning up. I thought you will be okay once you rest, but it seems your condition has worsened."

    "No, I''m fi-" Yan Mei was interrupted as her chest heaved, she held her stomach as a fit of cough took over her for a few minutes.

    "That is it, I''m calling a doctor." Lei Zhao said as he brushed a hand across her cheeks.

    "No-o," Yan Mei tried to protest, but she could barely say the words from the rasped sounds that came out of her instead.

    Lei Zhao red at her, "Wifey, why don''t you want me to call the doctor? I can''t bear to see your suffering like this"

    Yan Mei turned away and avoided his gaze.

    "Okay."

    Lei Zhao nted a kiss on her forehead.

    "Hang in there, you will feel better soon."

    Lei Zhao walked towards the bathroom and came back with a wet towel. He gently dabbed her cheeks and upper lip with the towel.

    "I must look like sh*t right now." Yan Meiined as she erupted into another fit of cough.

    Lei Zhao sat on the bed beside her. "Take it easy." He murmured as he rubbed her back.

    "And yeah, you look terrible." Lei Zhao chuckled, as he ruffled her hair.

    "Go, I don''t want you to also get sick too."

    Lei Zhao lightly raked his fingers through her hair.

    "Wifey, you''re mine to take care of. Always remember that it doesn''t matter, the risks involved."

    Yan Mei pouted, "You will change your mind after realizing I''m a horrid patient."

    Lei Zhao chuckled softly, "Wifey, your antics to distract me from calling the doctor won''t work."

    Yan Mei flushed and squeezed the hand he entwined with hers.

    "Yeah, right."

    Lei Zhao nodded and went to call the doctor.

    --------

    "Wifey, this is Dr. Jun, my best friend. He will take care of you."

    Yan Mei looked at the young doctor with a silly smile on his face, and she nodded weakly at him.

    After checking on her and running some tests, the doctor smiled and scribbled on a notepad before handing the ripped sheet to Lei Zhao.

    "Sister-inw is fine. Just having a fever." Jun Mo dered.

    "I have prescribed some medicine for her, let Ye Xing buy it, and she would be fine in three days or so."

    Lei Zhao stared at the sheet before looking up at Jun Mo."

    "Are you sure it just a fever? She looks like she is suffering a lot, should we take her to the hospital-"

    Jun Mo chuckled when he saw Lei Zhao''s face etched with suffering and worry.

    "Lei Zhao, you''re acting like she has an incurable disease. It just a fever. She would be fine soon!"

    Lei Zhao red at Jun Mo, making him cleared his throat.

    "She just a little dehydrated but as long as you give her steady fluids-water, soup, juice. She would be fine. Also, let her rest plenty. You will see, she would be fine in a few days."

    "If she isn''t, you will hear from me." Lei Zhao said with a grim nod, as he nced briefly at Yan Mei with his eyes shing with anxiety.

    "Thank you."

    Jun Mo snorted as he gathered his things.

    "Sister-inw, you''re the only reason this guy would thank me for doing something for him. Like that night-"

    "Jun Mo, don''t you have patients waiting for you at the hospital?" Lei Zhao questioned sternly, cutting him off.

    Yan Mei raised a questioned brow at Lei Zhao, who pressed his lips together awkwardly.

    "Sister-inw, I wish you a speedy recovery. I will invite you to dinner once you get better."

    Yan Mei nodded.

    Jun Mo beamed when he saw that she has agreed.

    "Alright, I will take my leave now so you can rest."

    Lei Zhao ushered Jun Mo to the door.

    Lei Zhao came back a few minutes to find Yan Mei being racked with another coughing fit.

    Lei Zhao dashed in and grabbed the water on the nightstand for her.

    Yan Mei shot him a grateful look and took a sip of the water.

    "Mom is downstairs waiting for you. Let me help you freshen up so you can meet her."

    Yan Mei widened her eyes, "Why didn''t you tell me earlier."

    Lei Zhao shrugged, "She told me to let you rest. "Lei Zhao said as his fingers gently swept the hair off her eyes and face.

    "Can you help me take a quick shower? I''m feeling ufortable and sticky."

    Lei Zhao grinned wolfishly.

    "It will be my pleasure to serve my wife."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes at him.

    -------

    After Yan Mei finished freshening up, she came downstairs with the help of Lei Zhao.

    The moment she entered the living room, she heard an excited milky voice, "Boo-boo!"

    Niu Niu said as he ran towards Yan Mei and hugged her legs.

    His pure eyes looked up at Yan Mei and blinked. His brows knitted together, "Boo-boo, are you sick? It''s because uncle didn''t take care of you, right?!"

    Niu Niu asked as he turned his head to re at Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao looked at the young guy ring at him, and he ran a frustrated hand through his hair. ''Arggh¡­not again''

    Yan Mei cleared her throat and nodded weakly, "Hmm."

 Chapter 97 A motherâ€™s Love

    <h4>Chapter 97 A mother''s Love</h4>

    "Uncle, you don''t deserve my Boo-Boo. You can''t even take care of her!" Niu Niu said fiercely, but his chubby face and milky voice made him look funny.

    Yan Mei stifled augh when she looked up to see Lei Zhao''s ck face with lines etched between his brows.

    "YOU¡­! Who are you to tell me whether or not I deserve my wife!?" Lei Zhao retorted, quickly pointing his finger at Niu Niu.

    "I''m someonepetent to take care of her!" Niu Niu turned to look at Lei Zhao and crossed his arms across his chest.

    Lei Xiao Tong, who was eating fruit sd while watching the scene unfold, suddenly busted intoughter.

    "How do you n on taking care of her? Can you hug her and offer her warmth? Can you pick her from the bed and bath her? Can you even feed her yourself? You can barely feed yourself, kiddo!"

    Niu Niu nced at Lei Zhao and humped.

    "Boo-Boo, leave my Uncle. Even though my hug won''t give you enough warmth like my Uncle or I can''t feed you properly. I will make you happy! We can y with my toys and also, I will buy you lots of delicious kinds of stuff with my pocket money!"

    Lei Zhao snorted, "I can buy her a mall full of toys and apany which manufactures sweet things just for her. You don''t even have money, but you want to steal someone''s wife."

    Niu Niu''s face scrunched into a frown when he realized what Lei Zhao said was true. He was just a kid, and he couldn''t give Yan Mei what she wants because he isn''t rich as his Uncle. Even though his parents are wealthy, they wouldn''t recklessly provide him with money.

    "One day, I will also be rich, richer than you!" Niu Niu dered with a small pout on his face.

    Unbeknownst to Lei Zhao, he had awakened a working machine who would invest all his time in making money because he lost his favorite woman to someone richer!

    "Let''s talk when you have money, Kiddo" Lei Zhao teased Niu Niu as he stuck his tongue out at him.

    Niu Niu clenched his small fist and bit his lips in a grievance.

    Yan Mei, who was feeling dizzy from standing for too long andughing tousled Niu Niu''s hair.

    "Don''t mind your Uncle. He-"

    A smothered cough interrupted Yan Mei. Lei Zhao panic and rushed to her side.

    He gently rubbed her back until her cough subsided.

    "XiaoMei,e and sit down." Lei Xiao Tong said anxiously.

    Lei Zhao helped Yan Mei sit across Lei Xiao Tong and sat beside her.

    Niu Niu eyes shed with worry as he stared at Yan Mei.

    ''Maybe I should be a doctor so I can take care of Boo-Boo when she is sick?'' Niu Niu thought as he looked at his Uncle''s eyes clouded with anxiety.

    ''Yeah, I will be a doctor one day and study hard so I can also take care of Boo-Boo when she is sick!''

    Niu Niu inwardly decided his future as he sat beside his Grandma.

    "XiaoMei, are you okay?" Lei Xiao Tong asked, with worry evident in her tone.

    She looked at Yan Mei''s face, which was pale, and turned to look at her son.

    "What happened? Can''t you even take care of your wife? Look how badly her face is!"

    Lei Xiao Tong scolded Lei Zhao. Lei Zhao looked up at his mother and met her fiery gaze.

    "Mom-"

    "Don''t call me, as a man you can''t even take care of your wife! I thought I raised you better."

    Lei Zhao swallowed and turned to look at his wife. He saw the amusement lingering in her eyes and heaved a sigh.

    "XiaoMei came here." Lei Xiao Tong beckoned at Yan Mei, ignoring his son.

    Yan Mei stood up and walked towards her mother-inw. When she reached her, Lei Xiao Tong held Yan Mei''s face as she inspected her face.

    Lei Xiao Tong''s brows knitted together.

    "What happened? You look terrible." Lei Xiao Tongmented as she stared at Yan Mei''s skin, which was red and blotchy.

    "Don''t worry, you will feel fine once you drink the soup prepared by me."

    Lei Xiao Tong said as she shed her a smile and stood up to go to the kitchen.

    Lei Zhao stared at his face, "Why didn''t you defend your husband when mom was scolding me?"

    Yan Mei shrugged and yed with Niu Niu''s hands.

    "Wifey, you''re really ruthless!"

    A sinister smile spread across Yan Mei''s lips as she turned to look at Lei Zhao.

    "Niu Niu, am I ruthless?"

    She threw the question to the little kid.

    Niu Niu shook his head aggressively and turned to re at Lei Zhao.

    "My Boo-Boo is an angel. How can you call her ruthless!"

    Lei Zhao sighed in exasperation. Now his entire family has turned their back on him.

    Lei Xiao Tong came back with a bowl of soup and ced a chair in front of Yan Mei.

    "XiaoMei, mother will feed you, okay?"

    Yan Mei blinked her eyes and turned to look at Lei Zhao. Lei Zhao smiled warmly at her and nodded.

    "Okay." Yan Mei said awkwardly.

    "Okay, open your mouth." Lei Xiao Tong said as she blew on the hot soup on the spoon.

    Yan Meipsed into silence and lowered her eyes to avoid the emptiness in it.

    "Ahhh¡­" Lei Xiao Tong said softly, smiling as she lifted the spoonful to Yan Mei''s mouth.

    Yan Mei flushed as she swallowed the mouthful of the rich, heavy broth full of chicken cuts and vegetables.

    Lei Xiao Tong eyed Yan Mei wryly, waiting for her reaction. She wanted to know if her daughter-inw liked her soup!

    Yan Mei moaned in delight, "Mom, this is so good! Better than Lei Zhao''s cooking."

    Yan Meimented as she savored the taste.

    "Good, that you like it!" Lei Xiao Tong mused with a small chuckle.

    "It''s my grandmother''s recipe prepared with a mother''s love. That''s why it tastes good."

    A shadow flickered across Yan Mei''s face, and her smile slowly faded. Unconsciously, she thought of her own mother.

    Lei Xiao Tong''s heart lurched when she saw Yan Mei''s pale face. She instinctively reached out to grasp Yan Mei''s hand.

    "Don''t worry, dear, even though your mother isn''t here anymore. She is always here with you." Lei Xiao Tong said softly as she pointed her finger at Yan Mei''s heart.

    Yan Mei blinked away the tears brewing in her eyes and nodded. It seems she wanted to say more, but she gave a small, tight smile instead.

    Niu Niu also clenched Yan Mei''s hands, making her turn to look at him.

    "I will also be there for you always." He said as he nted a kiss on Yan Mei''s cheeks.

    "Liang Kun!" Lei Zhao bellowed in anger as he called Niu Niu''s full name.

    Niu Niu turned to look at him and stick his tongue out at him.

    Yan Mei''s smile widened, and some light came back to her eyes.

    The atmosphere became warm as Lei Xiao Tong lifted another spoonful to Yan Mei''s mouth, and in silence, Yan Mei let her feed her the rest of the soup.

    Warmth coursed through her as she nced at her husband, who was staring at her with his eyes flickering with affection¡ªNiu Niu, who was observing her as she drank the soup.

    His brows will bump together anytime she coughed, making him look cute and finally, her mother-inw; no scratch that her mother¡ªthe woman who was gently feeding her with all the patience in the world. A warm smile will grace her lips anytime she swallowed the food.

    These people were now her family, and she would do anything to protect them!

    Once Lei Xiao Tong finished feeding Yan Mei, she excused herself and went to the kitchen.

    Lei Zhao also went to fetch her medicine. Left alone with Niu Niu in the room, Yan Mei took a long sip of water and turned to look at Niu Niu.

    "When is your birthday?" Yan Mei inquired as she stared at the little guy.

    "Next month, 23rd March." Niu Niu said tly.

    Yan Mei raised her brows, "You don''t seem happy that your birthday ising."

    Niu Niu fidgeted, "Yeah, my parents will just throw avish party for me. I just want to go to the park with them and eat ice cream and y. Not a party."

    Yan Mei nodded, "Why don''t you tell them?"

    Niu Niu bit his lips and shrugged.

    "Alright, I will take you there."

    Niu Niu eyes widened, "Promise?"

    Yan Mei said softly and nodded.

    "Promise."

    **double click to view author''s note

 Chapter 98 Bedded by a playboy

    <h4>Chapter 98 Bedded by a yboy</h4>

    The next day, Yan Mei woke up feeling a lot better. Her fever was gone, and she was just mostly tired, a sniffle here or there left.

    Lei Zhao helped her to bath even though she had protested and had made her breakfast. Now they were sitting in the living room snuggling while Yan Mei read a book.

    "What?" Yan Mei asked when she felt Lei Zhao''s gaze on her.

    "I didn''t know you are the type to enjoy reading these clich¨¦ romance books." Lei Zhao asked as he yed with her hair.

    Yan Mei shrugged, "My best friend introduced them to me in high school. I read only one, and I became addicted to it. It just¡­. I have been too busy to read them."

    Lei Zhao''s eyes flickered with amusement. "Oh, so what was the first book you read that made you addicted?"

    Yan Mei''s cheeks warmed when she remembered the first book she read. It was too explicit for someone her age. Clearing her throat, she replied, "Bedded by a yboy."

    Lei Zhao grinned, "Huh? Based on the title, it''s an explicit book, right?"

    Yan Mei bit her lips like a kid caught by an adult for doing something terrible.

    She scratched her nose in embarrassment, "Yeah. It was an explicit book. Really explicit."

    Yan Mei chuckled as she yed with the book in her hands.

    "What was it about?"

    Lei Zhao mused with a smile on his face.

    Yan Mei turned to look at him for a few seconds.

    "You really want to know?" Lei Zhao nodded.

    Yan Mei hesitated for a bit before she sighed, "It was about an incredibly handsome yboy who didn''t domitments and went to visit his brother at a ranch. At the ranch, he met a pure and nice girl who has zero knowledge about sex. You see those typical good girls?"

    Yan Mei asked as she licked her lips.

    Lei Zhao nodded in amusement, "Yeah, I do. Continue."

    Yan Mei nced at him, smiling and arching a brow.

    "The yboy felt the girl was too pure, so he wanted to taint her. He seduced her."

    Lei Zhao scrunched his face, "Wait; he was able to seduce her that easily?"

    Yan Mei couldn''t help but snort, "Lei Zhao, the guy was really hot with his sexy eight packs and mesmerizing eyes which could let any woman swoon. I think seducing an innocent girl wouldn''t be a problem."

    Yan Mei bit her lips and stared helplessly at Lei Zhao''s unhappy expression.

    "So, if you were the girl, would you have been easily seduced by the guy?"

    Lei Zhao blurted out in a hushed voice.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes, and a gleam of mischievousness passed through her eyes.

    "Why not? Haven''t you heard those good girls like bad boys?"

    Irritation shed through Lei Zhao as his mood unconsciously dampened.

    "Also, the girl was attracted to the guy. Just a look of the guy sent the girl''s blood boiling."

    Yan Mei exined with a dreamy look on her face. Suddenly she remembered how many times she had fantasized about meeting a guy like the yboy who would sweep her off her feet.

    "Lei Zhao, don''t tell me you''re jealous of a book character that I read when I was fourteen!"

    Yan Mei asked as she shot him a taunting look when she saw Lei Zhao''s face clouded with anger.

    "No, I''m not."

    Yan Mei raised her brows,

    "You are my wife now. Even though you had had fantasies with that yboy, you married me. It''s like those people obsessed with celebrities. Whether you envision your happily ever after with the idol, you will marry the boy next door."

    Lei Zhao said softly, grinning down at Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei blew the hair out of her face and red at him, "A girl got to dream. Stop being pessimistic."

    Lei Zhao shrugged, "I''m not. I''m just telling the truth."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes and ignored him.

    "Wifey¡­you didn''t finish telling me the story."

    Lei Zhao said as he traced his fingers on the lines on her cheeks.

    "Oh, the girl found out she was pregnant after a fight that caused the guy to leave the town."

    Lei Zhao groaned, "So¡­she raised the baby alone and lived happily ever after with the baby?"

    Yan Mei yfully pped his hands.

    "Ouch, Wifey. What was that for?" Lei Zhao winced as he held the ce she had hit.

    Yan Mei shook her head, "No, genius. The girl went to the city to look for the guy. Okay, okay, before I continue, tell me will you ept the baby and marry the girl if you''re the guy?"

    Lei Zhao looked up, frowning and pouting like an adorable three-year-old.

    "I will ept the baby but¡­. I don''t think I will marry the girl."

    Yan Mei''s eyes widened, "What?"

    Lei Zhao shrugged, "Wifey, yboys don''t domitments, remember?"

    Lei Zhaoughed at the disbelieving expression on Yan Mei''s face.

    "Wait; what? You will let the child grow up without both his parents?"

    Lei Zhao shook his head and tried to exin. "I mean if the girl is pretty like you. Then maybe I will marry her."

    "You-"

    The sound of someone ringing the bell interrupted Yan Mei. Her brows drew together.

    "Are you expecting someone?" She asked Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao shook his head, "Let me check who it is."

    Lei Zhao said as he nted a kiss on her forehead.

    Lei Zhao strode towards the door. He first looked through the peephole and realized it was a man.

    He frowned and opened the door, "Can I help you?" Lei Zhao asked tly.

    The man shed Lei Zhao a smile and nodded, "I''m looking for Fen-Yan Mei."

    Lei Zhao noticed the slip of the man, but he ignored it. Based on this, he knew the man knew his wife five years ago.

    "Lei Zhao, who is there?" Yan Mei asked as she strode towards the door.

    She stiffened when she saw the person standing at her doorstep.

    ''What is he doing here?''

 Chapter 99 Brother-in-law

    <h4>Chapter 99 Brother-inw</h4>

    "Leng Shao, what are you doing here?" Yan Mei inquired as she squinted her eyes.

    Lei Zhao turned around when he heard Yan Mei''s voice behind him.

    "You know him?" Lei Zhao queried as Yan Mei came to stand beside him.

    "Yeah, he is that friend I was talking about the other day." Yan Mei said as a soft smile tugged at the corners of her lips.

    "Leng Shao, meet my husband. Lei Zhao." Leng Shao nodded politely at Lei Zhao.

    "Lei Zhao, meet Leng Shao, my friend, and brother." Lei Zhao stretched his hands to greet Leng Shao.

    Leng Shao took Lei Zhao''s hand, "Brother-inw. Nice to finally meet you."

    Leng Shao said with a friendly smile on his face, even though his heart was bleeding. He felt as if someone was squeezing his heart.

    Lei Zhao''s forehead puckered. As a man, he could see the affection lingering in Leng Shao''s eyes anytime he stared at his wife.

    ''So was he just a friend??'' Lei Zhao thought as his brows shot up. He released Leng Shao''s hands and nodded.

    "It''s good that my wife had a friend and brother to take care of her during those years." Lei Zhao said sardonically.

    Leng Shao realized that Lei Zhao didn''t like him from his tone, but he didn''t mind. It waspletely normal for a man to be hostile to a person interested in his wife.

    Ignoring Lei Zhao, he turned to look at Yan Mei, "I went to thepany¡­"

    Leng Shao trailed off when he saw Lei Zhao pulling Yan Mei closer to him and wrapping a possessive hand around her waist.

    He looked up and saw Lei Zhao staring at him. Leng Shao knew Lei Zhao was warning him not to have any thoughts about Yan Mei. And he was showing off in front of me.

    Leng Shaoughed bitterly inwardly and shed Lei Zhao a smile. Yan Mei narrowed her eyes when she realized the confrontation between Leng Shao and Lei Zhao.

    "You were saying?" Yan Mei asked Leng Shao, breaking the awkward confrontation between the two.

    "I went to thepany, but your secretary said you are sick so you didn''te to work. So I..."

    Leng Shao scratched the back of his head, "You were worried about me?"

    Yan Mei interrupted him.

    Leng Shao smiled, making his dimple popped out.

    "Yeah, I remembered you look terrible when you''re sick, and you''re afraid of injections¡­"

    Lei Zhao''s muscle in his jaw twitched as irritation shed through him.

    "You don''t have to worried about her. She is married now. Her husband will take care of her."

    Lei Zhao chided in clearly, his voice was thick with irritation.

    "Oh," Leng Shao said awkwardly. The atmosphere became tense for a moment before Yan Mei spoke, "Come in."

    Leng Shao shook his head, "Actually, I came here for another reason."

    Yan Mei crossed her arms over her chest as she waited for him to continue.

    "I don''t know if you would agree, but I want to take you somewhere. I have a surprise for you."

    Lei Zhao''s expression hardened. He turned to look at Yan Mei, waiting for her response.

    Yan Mei looked up to meet Lei Zhao''s eyes. His eyes were boring into hers.

    "Alright." Yan Mei said, breaking the eye contact with Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao''s face twisted, and he pressed his lips together, not saying anything.

    Leng Shao beamed, "Good! I will wait for you to change your dress."

    "No." Lei Zhao dered, making Leng Shao freeze.

    Yan Mei scrunched her face, "Why?"

    Lei Zhao turned to look at her, "Wifey, you''re sick. I''m afraid your condition would worsen."

    Lei Zhao exined softly. Yan Mei sniffled and smiled, "Don''t worry, I will be fine. Leng Shao wouldn''t let anything happen to me, and I will take care of myself."

    Lei Zhao''s brows bumped together as he stared at Yan Mei.

    Noticing his lousy mood, Yan Mei cleared her throat.

    "I wille with my husband. I hope that''s okay?"

    Yan Meimented as she turned to look at Leng Shao.

    Leng Shao faked a smile and nodded.

    "Alright." He agreed as he turned to look at Lei Zhao. He saw the smirk on Lei Zhao''s face, and Leng Shao rolled his eyes.

    ''I can''tin since he loves Meimei, and that''s the most important thing.'' Lei Zhao thought bitterly

    "Then it''s settled. We will change. Do you want toe in and wait?" Lei Zhao asked.

    "No, I will wait in my car." Leng Shao declined politely.

    --------

    Because Yan Mei was sick, Lei Zhao selected a straight pair of jeans and a ck turtleneck sweater paired with white sneakers for her. He crouched down in front of her as he tied her shoces.

    "Lei Zhao, don''t you like Leng Shao?" Yan Mei suddenly asked, making Lei Zhao paused incing her shoe for a while.

    "Why are you asking that?" He retorted as he continued with what he was doing.

    Yan Mei heaved a sigh, "I saw the way you spoke to him earlier. I hope you guys can be friends since he is like the brother I never had."

    ''So she doesn''t know the guy is interested in her?'' An unknown glint passed through Lei Zhao''s eyes. He looked up at her and nodded.

    "Alright. Sorry I just got jealous for a moment. He was talking about how you are afraid of injections. As your husband, I don-"

    Yan Mei cut off Lei Zhao with a kiss. Lei Zhao responded with a raw need; her cold mouth warmed and softened as she responded with a certain fierceness of her own.

    It''s been like forever since she felt his lips against her. Lei Zhao ended the kiss after a few minutes and yed his thumbs on her swollen lips.

    "Silly¡­there is no need to be jealous." Yan Mei reprimanded him.

    Lei Zhao grinned, "Alright."

    Suddenly it hit Yan Mei, "Will you get sick because of the kiss?"

    Lei Zhao chuckled and ruffled her hair, "Don''t worry, I don''t get sick easily."

    Yan Mei nodded, "Then let''s go. Leng Shao is waiting for us."

    *Double click to view author''s note

 Chapter 100 Pupy

    <h4>Chapter 100 Pupy</h4>

    Author''s note: *if you want to see how Yan Mei confessed to Lei Zhao buy privilege? To read ahead hihihi*

    The drive didn''t take long and they were now slowing down a driveaway. Yan Mei who was sitting at the back of Leng Shao''s car with Lei Zhao had her eyes closed as she leaned back, resting her head on Lei Zhao''s chest.

    Lei Zhao''s shook her a little when Leng Shao stopped the car. "Wifey¡­wake up we are here."

    Yan Mei groaned as she half opened her eyes.

    "We have reached the ce?" She asked as she groggily scratched her eyes with the back of her hands.

    "Hmm." Lei Zhao replied as he looked down at her.

    "Oh alright."

    Yan Mei looked out the window and saw that they had parked at the parking lot of the park. She had always wanted to visit this park but she was afraid it would spark some bad memories. She turned to look at Lei Zhao and smiled at him. She squeezed the hand they had entwined earlier.

    Lei Zhao realized she was probably nervous of going to the park so he leaned closer and nted a kiss on her forehead.

    "Are you alright?" Lei Zhao asked softly.

    Yan Mei nodded, "Yeah. "

    Leng Shao watched their interactions in the mirror and looked away as a crushed look shed through his eyes.

    So he never got a chance with her. Does she even know how he feels about her? Several thoughts crossed his head, his heart was breathing at irregr intervals. He took a deep breath and just listened to the birds chirping and shouts of the children from the park. But nothing was louder than the sound of his heat beating ferociously slow.

    At this moment, he came to the realization that he had lost her again, maybe if he was the one who had found her five years ago would she be with him? All memories came instantly gushing in to his head, all their good moments together.

    For the first time, Leng Shao felt frightened and alone. He was growing by the seconds and it seems life didn''t give a damn about what happened to him.

    Most of his friends were married, some even had kids but hisst rtionship was eight years ago. Will he ever find love again-

    "Leng Shao!" Yan Mei voice snapped him out of his thoughts. He turned around but his eyes met Lei Zhao''s questioning ones before snapping to Yan Mei''s worried ones.

    "Are you okay?" Yan Mei asked, her face contorted with worry.

    "Yeah, let''s go." Yan Mei narrowed her eyes but said nothing.

    Once they got down, Yan Mei saw that the park was fenced all around with beautiful iron bars and gates for entrance and exit. They strode inside the park with Leng Shao leading them with Lei Zhao and Yan Mei behind.

    Yan Mei saw that beautiful nts and creepers adorned the surroundings. The floor was covered with lush green grass with beautiful flowers all around.

    The ambience was beautiful. There were benches forfortable sitting and swings at every corner. A smile tugged at the corners of her lips when she saw the small fish pond which had many colourful fishes in it. The surface of the water ruptured, spewing a colourful fish into the air.

    Suddenly, Yan Mei had the urge to paint this beautiful scenery.

    "Do you like it?" Lei Zhao asked when he saw Yan Mei''s eyes sparkling as she looked around.

    "Yeah, it''s very beautiful." Yan Mei replied.

    "We cane here if you like-"

    Lei Zhao was cut off by the sound of a dog barking. Yan Mei turned around and widened her eyes.

    "Is that Pupy?!" She asked Leng Shao as she stared at the dog running towards her.

    "Yeah." Leng Shao chuckled when he saw the shock on her face.

    They had saved the dog one night. Yan Mei still remember the skinny puppy but the dog running excitedly towards her was all grown up.

    She squatted and opened her arms. The dog lurched at her and licked her face excitedly.

    Lei Zhao scrunched his face as he red at the dog. Yan Mei petted the dog who lifted his eyes to her face. He stopped barking as he stared at Yan Mei. The dog was a lurcher, ck and white in patches with beautiful lurcher eyes. His coat was curly.

    "Pupy, do you miss me?" Yan Mei asked as she smiled.

    "Wooh, wooh.." The dog barked excitedly as he ran back and forth; panting between barks.

    Lei Zhao looked at his wife glowing and swallowed hisints. He could only re at the dog in distaste.

    "Is this the surprise?" Yan Mei chuckled as she ran her hands through the dog''s fur.

    Leng Shao shook his head, "No, there is one more. Let''s go"

    Yan Mei stood up and nodded.

    "Okay, let''s go."

    Pupy swished his tail and barked at Leng Shao.

    "Are you finally happy?" Leng Shao asked Pupy making the dog bark at him excitedly.

    ------

    Three people with a dog trailing behind them strode leisurely around the park until theye at a seclusion ce. It seems this ce was reserved for someone. Yan Mei saw a woman standing with her back facing her.

    She turned to look at Leng Shao who just shed her a smile.

    "Go ahead." Lei Zhao brows knitted together.

    "Do you want me to go with you?" Lei Zhao asked Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei shook her head. She knew who the woman was but she wanted to confirm by herself.

    "Wait for me, she just a few steps away."

    Lei Zhao nodded, "Okay, I will be waiting for you here."

    Yan Mei took a deep breath and walked towards the woman.

    Just as she was a few steps from the woman; the woman turned making her stop in her tracks.

    Yan Mei widened her eyes as she stared at the woman smiling softly at her.

    She opened her mouth and closed it again.

    "A cat got your mouth?" The woman asked Yan Mei with sarcasm thick in her voice.

 Chapter 101 A motherâ€™s Advice

    <h4>Chapter 101 A mother''s Advice</h4>

    "Xiaomei! Won''t you give me a hug?" hurrying her steps, the woman pulled Yan Mei into a hug.

    Yan Mei smiled warmly as she hugged her back. Mrs. Leng pulled away and scrutinized Yan Mei. She furrowed her brows.

    "You need to eat more. You''re still skinny." Mrs. Lengmented, causing Yan Mei to giggle.

    "Auntie, I have gained weight because my husband has been spoiling me with food!" Mrs. Leng stiffened as she looked up at Yan Mei.

    "Husban-"She was cut off when she noticed Lei Zhao''s presence.

    "Who is this?" she smiled kindly.

    Yan Mei turned around and stood beside Mrs. Leng.

    Lei Zhao was about to introduce himself when Yan Mei cut him off.

    "Auntie, this is Lei Zhao. He is my husband." Mrs. Leng''s smile congealed into shock. Lei Zhao stared at her as her eyes widened in shock, but she immediatelyposed herself.

    A glint passed through his eyes when he saw the woman smiling forcedly at him. Mrs. Leng''s eyes scanned Lei Zhao''s body from head to foot, trying to figure something out.

    Yan Mei waved at Lei Zhao, "Lei Zhao,e and greet my aunty."

    Lei Zhao walked towards them and stretched his hands for Mrs. Leng to shake, but the woman brushed it off as she gave in to hug him.

    "It''s nice to meet you, dear." She pulled away and held Lei Zhao''s shoulders, smiling, "You''re very handsome!"

    "Thank you, Ma'' ma."

    Mrs. Leng chuckled, "Please, just call me Mrs. Leng."

    Lei Zhao nodded politely.

    "Alright, Ma-Mrs. Leng."

    Lei Zhao replied as he transferred his gaze to Yan Mei, who was looking in his direction. He smiled at her, and Yan Mei responded with a grin.

    Mrs. Leng watched their interactions, and she looked at her son, who had a crushed look in his eyes. She felt a pang in her chest as she felt bad for her son.

    Mrs. Leng knew how much her son had loved Yan Mei all these years, but because she was his best friend''s wife, he couldn''t do anything but just watched the woman he loves in his best friend''s arms.

    Then she disappeared five years ago. Her son had searched for her non-stop all these years, and when he finally found her, she was already married to another man. How can fate be this cruel to her son!

    Leng Shao felt his mother''s gaze on him. He just shrugged his shoulders and forced a smile to appease his mother.

    Mrs. Leng smiled softly at him and turned to look at Yan Mei.

    "XiaoMei, let''s go; we have lots of catching up to do!"

    -------

    Yan Mei and Mrs. Leng sat on a near bench as they talk about general things. Because Mrs. Leng didn''t want to open Yan Mei''s wounds, she didn''t ask what happened five years ago or mention Wang Lu.

    Mrs. Leng suddenly became quiet for a moment before turning to look at Lei Zhao, who was standing under a shade with her son.

    "So...you really love this guy, huh?" Mrs. Leng whispered.

    "Ahh-ye-well, it''splicated." Yan Mei said as she also turned to gaze at Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao had bumped together his brows as he stared at his phone.

    "You look happy. I think he is good for you." Mrs. Leng said openly.

    Yan Mei smiled, "Yeah, he is."

    Mrs. Leng held Yan Mei''s hands, "You deserve to be happy, XiaoMei. I don''t know how your new married life is, but I hope it works out. Because even a blind man can see how much that guy loves you."

    Yan Mei felt the blood rushing to her cheeks, "Yeah, he does, and I hope our marriage works out."

    Mrs. Leng chuckled, "So you have told him how you feel about him? I know you''re not very vocal about your feelings."

    Yan Mei avoided Mrs. Leng''s gaze and shook her head.

    Mrs. Leng''s forehead creased, "You have never vocally expressed how you feel about him? Not even once?"

    Yan Mei nibbled on her bottom lips and fidgeted. She felt like a kid who was about to be schooled by her mother.

    Seeing her reaction, Mrs. Leng shook her head helplessly.

    "XiaoMei, even though he is a man. He also has feelings and needs security in the rtionship. I know it must be difficult for you to believe in love again. But...looking at how that guy looks at you like you are the only thing in his universe. I can bet money on it that he truly loves you!"

    A flush crept on Yan Mei''s face.

    "You should tell him how you feel about him. The sooner, the better, okay?"

    Yan Mei''s eyes met Mrs. Leng''s soft ones gazing at her lovely and nodded.

    "Do-I-I need to wait for a special day or time to tell him? You know¡ªso that it will be special."

    Mrs. Lengughed and flickered Yan Mei''s nose, "Silly child, when you love someone, there is nothing like a special time or ce to confess how you feel. Just make sure your confession is from here." Mrs. Leng said as she pointed at her heart.

    ------

    Lei Zhao looked at the message sent by Ye Xing and furrowed his brows. The task he gave him to investigate the person responsible for his wife''s plight was proving to be a hard task. Whoever did this, Lei Zhao has to admit, is really good. There are no loopholes.

    "Is everything okay?" Leng Shao asked, making Lei Zhao looked up at him. Lei Zhao nodded and ced his phone back in his pocket.

    "Yeah." Lei Zhao replied dryly, with no emotion in his eyes.

    An awkward silence and tension fell between the two men. After a few seconds, Lei Zhao spoke, breaking the silence.

    "I owe you an apology."

    Shock shed through Leng Shao''s eyes. He knew Lei Zhao wasn''t a man who would normally apologize for something unless he wants to.

    "Apologize for¡­"

    Lei Zhao stared at Yan Mei, who was blushing, and his lips twisted into a soft smile.

    "For the way, I treated you when we first met. I know you mean a lot to my wife."

    Lei Zhao said as he turned to look at Leng Shao, "My wife''s friends are my friends as her enemies are mine. So sorry¡­I hope we can put that unpleasant wee behind us."

    Leng Shao was beyond shock. This man¡­he is so different from Wang Lu-"

    Leng Shao realized he was waiting for him to say something.

    He cleared his throat and nodded, "It''s okay. As a man, I understand your behavior. I would have behaved the same way or worse."

    Lei Zhao stared at Leng Shao for a few seconds before speaking, "Why didn''t you tell her how you feel about her years ago." He has always been curious about this question since he met Leng Shao and realized he likes his wife.

    Leng Shao swallowed nervously and looked at Yan Mei. A sad smile formed on his lips.

    "Because I knew it was impossible to be with her. And her happiness means everything to me."

    Lei Zhao looked at Leng Shao; he had to admit this man was worthy of his respect.

    "Don''t hurt her." Lei Zhao heard Leng Shao''s plead.

    "I don''t n to." Lei Zhao told him as he willed himself to hold on to that promise.

 Chapter 102 I love you!

    <h4>Chapter 102 I love you!</h4>

    The days passed by in a blur, Yan Mei''s fever was gone, but because she wanted to spend time with Lei Zhao. She rested at home and skip her work for a few days¡ªsomething she has never done for the past five years unless she was terribly sick.

    Yan Mei had to admit their rtionship had significantly improved with the time they spent together at home. They would snuggle, cuddle, and talk about trivial matters like an ordinary couple. They would asionally bicker on an issue until one of them gives up.

    Yan Mei looked at Lei Zhao, breathing steadily beside her, and her lips curved into a soft smile. She had woken up in the middle of the night, and she was finding it difficult to go back to sleep. Maybe she was nervous; she had been thinking about, Mrs. Leng said for the past few days.

    She wanted to find the right time to tell him, but she never got the chance. She felt like a teenager who was nning on confessing to her crush. The words always get caught in her throat anytime her eyes meet his, looking longingly at her. His gaze always made her feel like she was his entire universe.

    She ran her fingers through his hair as she took her time memorizing his features. Lei Zhao''s brows screwed together when he felt a tingling sensation in his hair. Yan Mei smiled, she thought he looked cute. He was sleeping with his lips slightly opened. Lei Zhao slowly opened his eyes and smiledzily at her when he saw her staring at him.

    "Why are you still up?" He arched his eyebrows together in confusion. Yan Mei pouted, "Because my husband didn''t hug me so I can''t fall asleep. I feel cold!" Yan Mei bemoaned.

    "Oh." Lei Zhao chuckled. It seems his wife was bing clingy.

    "Sorry, dear. I was a little tired, so I fell asleep the moment I hit the bed." Lei Zhao exined.

    He has been busy with some business affairs that need his immediate attention, but because Yan Mei got sick, he had to dy. Also, he wanted to spend time with her, so he waits until she falls asleep every day before sneaking away to the study to attend to some business matters.

    Unbeknownst to Lei Zhao, Yan Mei knew about this, but she didn''t say or ask him anything. She just felt warm in her heart. She would wait for him toe to bed and pretend she is sleeping when hees back.

    Yan Mei harrumphed and turned her back at him,pletely ignoring him. Lei Zhao groaned and pulled her into his arms and wrapped his arms around her waist.

    He rested his head into the crook of her neck, smelling her unique smell that calmed him. He nted a kiss there.

    "Sorry Wifey, I will always hold you from onwards unless I''m sick or my hands are cut off." Lei Zhao mumbled softly.

    Yan Mei smiled to herself. His words are always able to melt her heart. The room fell into silent, and she drifted into a peaceful sleep.

    ------

    Lei Zhao grunted as he opened his eyes and felt the sun ring his vision. He squinted and stretched to touch Yan Mei''s body. He wanted to give her a good morning kiss, but he realized he was alone on the bed, and he had overslept.

    It''s been a long time since he had overslept. Sitting up, he rubbed the sleep from his face and ran a hand through his disheveled hair. Lei Zhao got down from the bed and made his way towards the kitchen. He assumed Yan Mei was probably bathing, so he decided to make breakfast for her.

    Lei Zhao stopped in his tracks when he heard the bustling of utensils in the kitchen. He furrowed his brows and hurried to the kitchen. Yan Mei''s back was facing him. Her hair was tied in a messy bun, wearing a pajama and a sweater; she looked adorable.

    "Good morning, Wifey." Lei Zhao spoke, startling Yan Mei. She yelped, turning around surprised with a blush crept on her cheeks.

    "Good morning. Would you like some coffee?" She asked softly with a smile, making her whole being glow.

    "Yes." Lei Zhao said as he strode towards her. He pulled her closer and nted a kiss on her forehead before sitting downfortably.

    Yan Mei served him coffee and a toasted cheese sandwich. Lei Zhao stared at the burnt sandwich and quirked his brows. He looked up and saw Yan Mei''s eyes flickering with ''nervousness?''

    "You made this?" Lei Zhao asked with uncertainty evident in his voice. Yan Mei nodded and blushed profusely.

    "Oh, it''s a miracle you didn''t burn the kitchen and the house down." Lei Zhao chuckled, teasing her.

    Yan Mei red at him and threw the napkin she was holding at him. Lei Zhaoughed at her adorable face.

    "I''m not that bad. I have been watching you when you prepare breakfast. Also, we have a toaster and a coffee maker!"

    Yan Mei exined, rolling her eyes.

    Lei Zhao eyed the piece of bread wearily. ''Even with a toaster, and she still burned the thing!''

    Lei Zhao inwardlyined. He saw her hopeful eyes and couldn''t bear to disappoint her. Also, he was touched by her gesture.

    Lei Zhao took a bite and was surprised that it wasn''t ''that'' bad.

    "It can be better, but I''m notining." Lei Zhao smirked, trying to tease her again.

    Yan Mei smiled sadly in return and folded her hands before her. She fiddled with her fingers, avoiding eye contact with Lei Zhao.

    "You don''t like it?" Yan Mei pouted. Lei Zhao stared at her lips, and he wanted to bit it. He cleared his throat and shook his head.

    "O-okay." Yan Mei mumbled. She shrugged nonchntly, feigning that she wasn''t affected by what he said. She stared at her feet, distractingly.

    "Wifey," Lei Zhao chuckled. Yan Mei snapped her head towards him.

    "I''m just teasing you. It''s actually good since it''s your first time preparing breakfast."

    Yan Mei stared at him for a couple of seconds and then started walking away saying nothing. Lei Zhao jolted from the chair and grabbed her wrist. He pulled her into his arms and encased her by holding her waist.

    "Are you angry?" Lei Zhao asked

    Yan Mei harrumphed and turned her head away, avoiding his gaze.

    A smug stered on Lei Zhao''s face. "Wifey, sorry."

    Yan Mei scoffed and ignored him.

    "Okay, know that you asked for this."

    Yan Mei frowned. Before she could ask what he meant, Lei Zhao tickled her, melting her angered face. Yan Mei busted outughing.

    "Lei Zhao¡ªah-stop!" She yelled. Lei Zhao grinned.

    "Not until you have said you have forgiven me!"

    Yan Mei didn''t want to give up, but the tickling was too much for, so she surrendered.

    "Okay..o, I forgive you!" Lei Zhao smirked triumphantly and let her go.

    He flickered her nose, "I won."

    Yan Mei snorted, "I will get back at you!"

    "Oh, how do you n on doing it?" He asked as his eyes wandered on her face. Yan Mei looked up and met his fiery gaze. She swallowed and stared back at him. Her heart fluttered in her chest, and her stomach swarmed with butterflies.

    Her eyes lingered on his lips. Unconsciously, she licked her lips. God, she missed him. It''s been so long since-

    The lingering smirk on his face suggested he knew her train of thoughts, and he was amused. Yan Mei scoffed and pushed him away.

    "I''m going to take a bath." Yan Mei said and hurriedly scurried away.

    Lei Zhao shook his head and stared at her back. Yan Mei stopped in her tracks and turned to look at him.

    He saw her walking back to sit down. Taking a deep breath, she called him.

    "Lei Zhao.."

    Lei Zhao turned to look at her when he heard her calling him.

    "Yes. Is there something wrong?"

    Yan Mei''s eyes met his, and her heart skipped a beat. Time seemed to slow as they just stood there staring at each other. Lei Zhao quirked his brows when he saw the emotions brewing in her eyes. It was hard for him to decipher the emotions.

    "Wif- " Lei Zhao was cut off by Yan Mei''s voice, thick with a strong emotion.

    "I love you." Yan Mei blurted out.

 Chapter 103 She is mine

    <h4>Chapter 103 She is mine</h4>

    Lei Zhao stood there stupefied. To say he was shocked was an understatement. He opened his mouth in an o shape and closed it again. Lei Zhao felt like he was in a trance as he looked into her deep eyes. Involuntarily he held his breath, and the surrounding time froze.

    ''Did she¡­ God, she said¡­'' Lei Zhao was going through an internal turmoil. He felt he was hallucinating. Even though he has been waiting to hear her say these three-letter words to him, he was finding it difficult to believe it. It was so unexpected that¡­ he was just lost.

    ''God, she said, she loves him!'' Lei Zhao felt he was floating on the clouds. Yan Mei bit her lips and fidgeted nervously, twiddling her thumbs, waiting for his response, but he was just staring at her, saying nothing. Yan Mei felt awkward.

    "O-I will take a bath." She said and dashed out of the room. When Lei Zhao came out of whatever fantasnd he was in, she was already gone.

    Yan Mei rushed towards the bathroom and leaned against the wall. She held her chest to calm her beating heart.

    ''What did he say anything? Was I too abrupt?'' Yan Mei groaned. She needed to clear her head. Heaving a sigh, she stripped and stood under the shower.

    With her eyes closed and the warm water running down her, she thought about how she would face Lei Zhao. ''Will he tease her?'' Geez, she should have prepared a romantic dinner and confessed romantically.

    ''You''re so stupid, Yan Mei!'' Because Yan Mei was lost in her thoughts and embarrassments, she didn''t hear Lei Zhao entering the bathroom.

    Lei Zhao stared at Yan Mei''s naked body under the shower. His gaze fell upon her full, round, firm breast, thighs, and sexy legs. He saw her nipples were erect, begging to be sucked. Lei Zhao swallowed, feeling the familiar electric ripples of pleasure racing through him.

    "Wifey..." Yan Mei''s entire body gave a small tremble, hearing his deep and husky voice. She opened her eyes and turned around.

    Yan Mei blushed when he saw the feral lust burning in his eyes. A low rumble escaped from Lei Zhao as his eyes clouded with desire roam over every inch of her body.

    Before Yan Mei could respond, Lei Zhao pulled her closer to him as they stared at each other. Lei Zhao stepped forward and closed the distance between them. He bowed his head and captured her lips into a passionate kiss. Yan Mei eagerly kissed him back, earning a grin from Lei Zhao. He licked the seams of her bottom lips, making Yan Mei moan.

    "Jeez, you''re sound so sexy when you moan." Lei Zhao purred as his lips found her ears.

    Yan Mei''s throat went dry when he licked her ear. His tongue flicked her earlobe, causing her a whimper to passed her lips. Lei Zhao trailed kisses down her neck as he lightly sucked on it, leaving a mark. He pulled away to stare at her flushed cheeks, neck, and dark eyes zing with hunger.

    Yan Mei watched as he stripped his shirt and sweat pant down. Standing there in all his full glory, Yan Mei growled, pulled him closer, and mmed his lips into hers for another fiery kiss. ''Such a domineering wife.''

    Lei Zhao smiled against her lips as he rubbed circles on her waist. He broke the kiss and slowly moved his lips to her neck, down to her breast.

    Yan Mei let out a moan as he flickered his tongue around her hardened nipple while molding her other breast.

    Yan Mei bit her lips to stifle the moan as Lei Zhao moved his mouth from one breast to another.

    "Mmhm..." She tilted her head back in pleasure and closed her eyes.

    Lei Zhao backed her up against the wall until her back was against it. His hips rocked against hers, his hands gripping her buttocks.

    "Ready?"

    "Yes."

    Lei Zhao kissed her with a raw need as his tongue plunged inside her mouth. "Ooh!"

    Yan Mei cried when he lifted her and thrust in one movement. Lei Zhao knew he should have pleasured her to make her wet, but he couldn''t wait. She was slick but tight. A soft gasped elicit from her mouth. Her eyes widened as her face scrunched in pain. Lei Zhao paused.

    "I''m¡­ sorry." He groaned.

    She bit his neck as he thrust again, hard, deep, fast. The sharp pain, however, intensified his pleasure. ''She is mine!'' he thought in a primal satisfaction.

    "Lei Zhao!" She cried out his name.

    Lei Zhao chuckled as he buried himself deep inside her with her legs, sping his waist. The water trickled down their bodies as he pounded into her fast.

    Yan Mei screamed; her hand scratched his back as he plunged deeper, hitting her sweet spot. His lips moved to her neck, and he lightly kissed, sucked, and nibbled on her skin.

    "Ah..!" She moaned and bit her lips.

    "I''m so..close!" Yan Mei grunted as a whole body trembled with pleasure.

    "Cum for me, Wifey." Lei Zhao rasped, ramming hardly into her. Yan Mei''s head rolled back as ecstasy consumed her.

    Lei Zhao felt her walls tightening around his cock. She felt so good, so tight and hot.

    "Hubby!" Her body convulsed as she let out a scream as waves of pleasure washed over her. Lei Zhao groaned but kept thrusting, trailing her orgasm for a longer period. She cum hard and quick. Her legs trembled from the climax.

    "Ugh!" Lei Zhao also groaned in the crook of her neck as he stiffened and released his hot seeds inside her.

    They stayed like this until Lei Zhao felt her shoulders shaking.

    "I hurt you." He said raggedly as he feathered kisses on her eyes tears were spilling from.

    "No. I''m just happy." Yan Mei said as she lifted her head. Her finger feathered delicately over his neck.

    "It seems, um, I-I''m the one who has hurt you."

    Lei Zhao raised his brows. "Me?"

    Yan Mei blushed, "I bit you."

    Laughter rumbled in his chest. "I felt as sexy as hell."

    Yan Mei blushed and buried her face against his shoulder.

    "It''s my first time being out of control. Sorry." Lei Zhao apologized.

    Yan Mei smiled, "I''m d."

    Her reply dumbfounded Lei Zhao.

    "You didn''t mind?"

    Yan Mei shook her head, "You are always so restrained. I... thought I didn''t excite you all that much."

    Lei Zhao chuckled, "Do you know how hard it is to go slow, be gentle, and wait to make sure you''re ready?"

    Yan Mei''s brows crinkled as she cleared her throat.

    "it''s lovely of you¡­ but every woman wants to know she drives her man crazy, making him lose control. Do you understand?"

    Lei Zhao shook his head helplessly. "Yes, ma''am."

    Yan Mei gave a tentative smile. "I like it when you are gentle too."

    Lei Zhao kissed her, savoring the sweet taste.

    "Hmm." He said as he nibbled her lower lip. He broke the kiss and rested his forehead against hers. Both of them stared into each other''s eyes.

    Yan Mei swallowed when he saw that his eyes were brewing an intense emotion that held her captive.

    Yan Mei couldn''t break away.

    "I love you." Lei Zhao whispered, his voice thick with love and affection.

    Yan Mei gritted her teeth against the tumult of emotions. She leaned her cheeks at his chest and wrapped her hands around his waist. She listened to his heart, beating just for her and held him tightly.

    "I love you, Lei Zhao."

 Chapter 104 Return to City M

    <h4>Chapter 104 Return to City M</h4>

    The sound of a blow dryer echoed inside the bedroom. Lei Zhao was meticulously drying Yan Mei''s hair. After the sex, they had washed each other. Now Yan Mei was sitting on the bed while her husband helps her dry her hair.

    This how a woman should be treated; endless pampering by her husband.

    She enjoyed this happy moments with him.

    She moaned in delight with her eyes closed as his gentle hands raked through her hand. Lei Zhao shook his head. ''So dramatic sigh.''

    "Wifey?" Lei Zhao called her as he turned off the blower.

    "Hmm?" Yan Mei opened her eyes and turned to look at him.

    "When did you realize that you love me?" Lei Zhao smirked, wrapping his arms around her waist from behind, and resting his head on her shoulder.

    Yan Mei scrunched her face in confusion, "Love? Who deceived you that I love you?"

    Yan Mei squealed as Lei Zhao picked her up and threw her on the bed.

    "So, you don''t love me, huh?" Lei Zhao asked, sitting on top of her and pinning her on the bed.

    "Lei Zhao¡­ get off me!" Yan Mei whined as she tried to wiggle him off her.

    "No, not until you answer my question." He said, pinning her hands above her head.

    Yan Mei groaned, "You''re so childish!"

    Lei Zhao chuckled, "Oh, I am?"

    He queried as he jabbed his fingers into her side, causing her to erupt intoughter. Lei Zhao increased the movement of his hands, causing Yan Mei to wiggle under him.

    "Lei Zhao¡­ ha haha¡­ stop¡­" Yan Mei said in betweenughs, as tears started to fall from her eyes.

    "No-no, I won''t stop until you answer the question!" Lei Zhao retorted as he pressed his fingers harder into her sides.

    Yan Mei squealed, twisting her body around.

    "Fine.. fine... I love you! I love you."

    Lei Zhao chortled in amusement, "What did you say? I didn''t hear you!"

    "I love! I love you! I love you!" Yan Mei yelled over and over until Lei Zhao released her.

    He fell on top of her and guffawed. Yan Mei took deep breaths, trying to calm herself.

    "Wifey.. you still haven''t answered my question." Lei Zhao panted into her neck.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes, "I don''t know¡­ it''s not like I''m keeping tabs on my heart. It just happened, I guess. But I can open my chest and take out my heart so you can ask her." Yan Mei said sarcastically.

    She pushed him off her and hopped out of bed.

    "Ouch." Lei Zhao said as he held his heart, feigning hurt.

    "You''re so childish. I think you''re a kid trapped the body of a thirty-year-old man." Yan Mei said as she rolled her eyes. She removed her bathrobe and stood naked with her back-facing Lei Zhao.

    ''Wifey¡­" Lei Zhao growled as he ogled at her body.

    Yan Mei scoffed, "You''re staring. It''s rude."

    Lei Zhao smirked, "But I can''t help it. You look beautiful."

    "Yeah, right. Stop being cheesy." She retorted. As she put on an underwear.

    Lei Zhao chuckled and hopped off the bed. He went beside her and turned her around. Before Yan Mei could see what he was doing, he kissed her. Yan Mei was caught off guard at first, but she closed her eyes and responded when she realized Lei Zhao was kissing her.

    His fingers drew circles on her belly, earning a moan from her. Lei Zhao smiled with their lips locked together. He moved his lips to her ear, "You, my darling, are a masterpiece, so believe it when I call you beautiful."

    He whispered, making Yan Mei shuddered. Lei Zhao caressed her neck with his lips, making her bit her lips.

    He pulled away and kissed her forehead.

    "Get dress." Lei Zhao grinned.

    Yan Mei red at him, "You''re a sneaky tease. You know that right?"

    Lei Zhao winked at her, "Wifey¡­ If I don''t tease you. Who should I tease?"

    Yan Mei shook her head and put on a straight floral dress.

    "So, what''s the n today?" Yan Mei asked.

    "We can stay in bed and make love all day. What do you think, Wifey?" Lei Zhao grunted.

    "Just the thought of you screaming and moaning my name all day is a big turn on." Yan Mei''s face turned scarlet.

    "Lei Zhao!" She yelled, causing Lei Zhao to chuckle.

    Yan Mei red at him, but he shrugged, unaffected by her re,

    "It just a suggestion, Love. No need to get riled up; unless¡­ you want us to."

    "Fuck, Shut up!" She cursed, which sounded incredibly sexy in Lei Zhao''s ears.

    ------

    Since they couldn''t decide on what to do, they opt for a stay-in. They were lounging on a couch watching television when the doorbell rang. Yan Mei knew both of them were not expecting a visitor.

    Lei Zhao''s phone rang so Yan Mei went to answer the door. She saw it was Lei Xiao Tong through the peephole. Yan Mei opened the door with a smile on her face.

    "XiaoMei!" Lei Xiao Tong called out excitedly as she pulled Yan Mei into a hug.

    "Mom." She beamed as she hugged Lei Xiao Tong back.

    Lei Zhao heard mumbling when suddenly he heard his mother calling him.

    "Mom." He responded as he hung up the call.

    He walked towards her and hugged her.

    "Hey, sweetheart. I wanted to check up on XiaoMei and wanted to see you both."

    She hugged Lei Zhao tighter, and then she let go of him. She handed the basket she was holding to Lei Zhao.

    "Lei Zhao, take these foods to the kitchen." Lei Zhao nodded and went to the kitchen.

    "So¡­ how are things between you two?" Lei Xiao Tong inquired.

    "We are doing great." Yan Mei smiled as a blush crept on her cheeks.

    Lei Xiao Tong chuckled as she satfortably on the couch.

    "Oh, I''m d things are working out for you." Lei Xiao Tong said as she held Yan Mei''s hands.

    Yan Mei smiled and nodded.

    ----

    Wang Lu watched as Yan Mei opened the door for Lei Xiao Tong. She was glowing as she smiled softly at the woman.

    Looking at the smile on her face, his lips unconsciously curved into a small smile.

    He hasn''t seen her again after that awkward meeting. A primal requisite possessed him, making him want to see her. He couldn''t even sleep because once he closed his eyes, he would see her face.

    Wang Lu would park at a ce where no one would see at herpany just to glimpse at her for the past few days, but she wasn''ting to work. So he investigated and found out where she was staying. Wang Lu was afraid something had happened to her. It was getting difficult for him to focus on work.

    The indifference he had witnessed in her eyes was refusing to leave his mind. Anytime he closed his eyes, he saw her smiling happily at that man. Wang Lu''s hands holding his steering wheel tightened. His heart tugged as he felt intense pain.

    God, he was so pathetic suffering over a woman who had cheated-

    The sound of his phone ringing snapped him out of his thoughts.

    "I told you not to disturb me for the next few weeks! He roared angrily.

    His secretary on the phone flinched, "Sir¡­ I¡­. Sorry to disturb you, but a fire broke out in one of our storesst night."

    Wang Lu''s brows shot up, "What are you talking about? How did a fire break out?!"

    "I don''t know...it just happened. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but the casualties are a lot. You need toe back to City M."

    A deep frown marred on Wang Lu''s face. He knew someone did this. But what was their intention?

    "Okay, I wille right away." Wang Lu hung up the call, took one look at Yan Mei''s house, and drove away.

    ¡ª-

    Lei Zhao, was packing the foods in the kitchen, when his phone shook, showing he has a message.

    He looked at it, and his lips curved into a sinister smile.

    Ye Xing: Boss, I have done what you asked me to.

    Lei Zhao; Good.

    Lei Zhao replied to the message and continued with what he was doing. He didn''t want to risk his wife''s life.

    He knew that whoever harmed his wife did it because of Wang Lu. And before he finds out the person, he won''t let him be around her.

    This will keep Wang Lu busy for a while until he finds the culprit.

 Chapter 105 Done waiting

    <h4>Chapter 105 Done waiting</h4>

    Ying Sheng came downstairs from her room and walked towards the couch in the living room. She slumped down andzily threw her head on the armrest. She stretched her legs and picked the remote from the center table in front of her.

    After spending a night at Liam''s ce, she had to say that they have be close. It''s nice to have a friend. Every morning, he would send her a message asking how she was and every night telling her to rest early.

    Ying Sheng looked forward to his message every day. Anytime she reads the message, a smile will subconsciously formed on her face. She enjoyed teasing her little Cutie.

    Fortunately, when he had dropped her off, her parents were not home. They had gone on a business trip. For the past few days, she hasn''t heard from them. Her father had called herst night, but she didn''t pick up. Why-

    Her line of thoughts was cut off when her phone rang. She groaned and pulled it from her pockets to see the caller''s identity. Her lips twisted into a sardonic smile when she saw the caller''s ID.

    ''Oh, so he has now remembered me.'' Ying Sheng thought as she hung up the call.

    But it seems the person was persistent since the phone kept ringing. Out of annoyance, she let out a series of curses before picking up the call.

    "What the fu*k do you want?!" Ying Sheng bellowed.

    Silence followed from the other line. Han Xi was stunned to hear such words from Ying Sheng. He could hear the venom in her tone. He didn''t know what to say. It seems she was furious.

    "Are you angry with me?" Han Xi finally said after a long silence.

    Hearing his soft voice, Ying Sheng bit her lips. Howe one word from his mouth tame her wild soul?

    Her anger vanished just like that after hearing his voice. Her heart thumped loudly in her chest. She took a deep breath and chuckled lightly.

    "No, I''m ecstatic for being stood up again for the fifth time. And oh, I stood in the rain for hours because I thought prince charming woulde on a white horse and shield me from the rain." Ying Sheng said ironically.

    "I¡­"

    "You''re what¡­. sorry?" Ying Shengughed mirthlessly.

    "Aren''t you tired of saying sorry every time?" She questioned.

    Han Xi heaved a sigh, "I''m sorry. Something came up, and my phone was off." Han Xi whispered.

    "Can you please forgive me?" Han Xi asked nervously as if he was afraid; she wouldn''t ept his apology.

    "¡­"

    Ying Sheng looked at the ceiling as tears filled her eyes, and her lips pressed into a thin line as she attempted not to cry.

    She wanted to stay away from him. Tried to tell him to go fu*k himself. But this was frustrating for her; she wanted to be strong and stop giving in too quickly into his demands. But she loved him and hearing the difort in his voice made her heart hurt.

    "Can you promise me you won''t do it again?" Ying Sheng closed her eyes and asked him.

    "I----" Han Xi trailed off. He didn''t want to promise her and disappoint her again.

    Ying Sheng waited for him to continue, but he didn''t.

    "I''m done, Han Xi." Ying Sheng spoke breaking the awkward silence between them.

    "What do you mean?" Han Xi asked, flustered.

    "I can''t do this again. I''m done waiting for you. I''m done always cleaning after your sh*t. I''m done pretending that I wasn''t waiting for you anytime you stood me up. But most of all, I''m done being thest priority in your life."

    "Ying Sheng, I''m sorry okay?" Han Xi pleaded.

    "Chen Yi got sick, and I couldn''t leave her alone!"

    Ying Sheng felt as if someone was piercing a thousand needles in her heart.

    ''Of course it was Chen Yi. It will always be her. His beloved.''

    "So, you were too worried about your princess that you forgot to send this ck swam a simple text message?" Ying Sheng asked tly.

    Han Xi panicked when he heard her t tone.

    "Ying Sheng don''t you think you''re overacting? You know Chen Yi''s body is weak!"

    "Hmm. Well, guess what? I''m sick and tired of always being everyone''sst priority and still waiting for someone to remember that I exist too! I''m also a human; the fact that I act like I don''t care doesn''t mean that I don''t!

    "Has it ever urred to you that I also have feelings?"

    Han Xi didn''t know what to say. Ying Sheng has never spoken to him like this before.

    "I''m sorry..."

    "You''re always sorry for Christ''s sake!"

    Ying Sheng yelled and hung up the call. She squeezed her eyes; she didn''t want to cry. No, she wouldn''t cry. She was the infamous Miss Ying, feared and envied by people; why should she cry?

    Ying Sheng wiped the tears from her cheeks and walked towards her father''s wine cer. Her lips curved into a self-deprecating smile as she opened the cork of the wine and gulped down.

    She sat on the floor, draping his elbows loosely over knees as she stared hard at the wall. She was drowning in her thoughts. She felt angry for allowing herself to be this vulnerable, but she loves him. She fucking loves him, and the fact that she means nothing to him hurts.

    -------

    Han Xi stared at his phone and ran a frustrated hand through his hair. Why does his heart hurt when he heard the pain in Ying Sheng''s voice? Why is she behaving like this?

    Han Xi brows knitted together as he contemted whether or not he should call her. At that moment, a soft voice called him.

    "Hy hun, why are you standing here? We were supposed to have lunch remember?"

    Han Xi turned to look at Chen Yi, "Sorry, Babe,"

    Chen Yi walked towards him and hugged him. She wrapped her hands around his waist and kissed his jaw.

    "What''s wrong?" She asked softly.

    "Nothing." Chen Yi looked up and met his eyes.

    "If it''s nothing, why are you avoiding me? What happened?"

    "I said it''s nothing." Han Xi said, slightly irritated. He removed her hands from his waist and walked towards the kitchen.

    She followed him as he made his way towards the fridge.

    "You know I''m always here for you, Babe." She said softly.

    Han Xi''s expression softened, and he embraced her. He saw her hazel eyes filled with sadness, and he felt a pang in his chest. Honestly, he didn''t love her. He was with her because he owes her. Also, he thought he needed someone to spread some warmth in his cold world.

    "Han-"

    He cut her off as he mmed his lips into hers.

    "I want you." Han Xi rasped between their kisses.

    "Yes." Chen Yi yanked his belt buckle while Han Xi shucked as many clothes as he had the patience to remove.

    He kept kissing her, trailing kisses on her neck. He turned her around and made her face the flush refrigerator door.

    Chen Yi chuckled, "Eager, are we?"

    Han Xi ignored her as he thrust into her from behind.

    "Aahh!" She cried out as Han Xi began thrusting into her.

    Han Xi closed his eyes and dug his face into her shoulder as he increased his pace.

    "H-an...Xi" She moaned his name in pleasure.

    With a growl, Han Xi kept thrusting into her harder. His hands holding her hips tightened.

    He felt her getting close to the edge as he continued to pound into her.

    ''Han Xi!" She cried out his name as waves of ecstasy consumed her. Han Xi groaned as he felt himself spilling inside her as he thrust a couple of times.

    Then he pulled out. Chen Yi blushed when she turned around to face him.

    "Sorry, did I hurt you?" Han Xi asked softly.

    Chen Yi shook her head.

    Han Xi nodded and nted a soft kiss on her lips.

    "Go freshen up so we can eat."

    Chen Yi wanted to say something, but she just nodded and walked towards the bedroom.

    Han Xi didn''t know why, but sex with Chen Yi didn''t excite him for the first time. It made him feel empty, like something is missing.

    Suddenly Ying Sheng wicked smirked shed through his eyes, and he stiffened.

    ''Fuck, what was wrong with him?''

    ***Double tap to view author''s note

    NOTE: PLEASE ADD MY NEW BOOK , The Beautiful Monster to your library

 Chapter 106 Crazy things

    <h4>Chapter 106 Crazy things</h4>

    Ying Sheng sat in ss and doodled in her notebookzily, not paying attention to whatever the professor was saying. Her mind wandered to Han Xi. He had called her multiple times for the past two days, but she refused to answer.

    She needed space to think and force her brain to process the fact that she was in love with a guy who would never love her back. Sad but true.

    But she asked herself every time if she was really over him. Ying Sheng couldn''t count the number of times she has imagined them together that she was the woman sleeping next to her instead of that bi*ch. She wonders how his tongue will feel dancing on her skin. How sexy he would sound growling out her name in pleasure. She wanted to be the one that would arouse him; make him lose control.

    It was disheartening that he meant everything to her, yet she was nothing to him. She was thest person he cared about. Will he ever notice her just for once?

    Ying Sheng was put out of her thoughts when the bell ring signaling the end of the ss.

    "Hey, are you okay?" A brte girl sitting beside Ying Sheng asked with concernced in her voice.

    Ying Sheng froze and turned to look at the girl. She was Ning Meng, the illegitimate daughter of Ning Qingbei. The director of the school.

    Her mother, an ordinary woman, fell in love with Ning Qingbei, a regr customer at her diner, not knowing he was a married man. They had an affair, and a few weekster, she found out she was pregnant with Ning Meng.

    The woman was excited. After all, she was going to have a baby with the love of her life, but Ning Qingbei told her he was already married and that his wife is pregnant so he can''t leave her. He can''t lose the face of their Ning family by divorcing his wife and marry amoner like her.

    Brokenhearted Ning Meng''s mother disappeared with her baby. It was just recently that Ning Meng came to look for Ning Qingbei since her mother had died, and she had no one to look after her.

    Unfortunately, even though Ning Qingbei epted her, Ning Mei is always bullied in the family. Ning Chang, her stepsister, couldn''t swallow the fact that she has another sister pretty than her, so she bullies this poor girl.

    How did Ying Sheng know this? She had witnessed Ning Chang bullying Ning Meng at a party once and heard people gossiping about the whole situation. At that time, Ying Sheng thought Ning Meng was too stupid not to fight back, so she left the ce bored.

    She wouldn''t waste her time helping a coward. If you want to survive in this high society, you need to be a fighter.

    Ying Sheng pointed her finger at her chest, "Are you talking to me?"

    She asked as she looked around. She realized they were the only people left.

    Ning Meng swallowed nervously, ''Why didn''t I just mind my business?'' She knew about the infamous Miss.Ying

    Ning Meng can see how everyone fears her. Also, she has heard rumors about how ruthless she is.

    "I¡­I saw you¡ªI was just???it''s okay. Sorry. Please don''t hurt me. I will mind my business from now onwards!"

    Ning Meng said anxiously, ying with her fingers, contemting whether she should leave or wait for Ying Sheng''s permission to leave.

    Ying Sheng''s face scrunched into confusion. ''I''m I that scary?''

    Ying Sheng heaved a sigh, "I''m okay."

    Ning Meng widened her eyes and nodded aggressively, "Oh-okay. Then I will go. Take care!"

    Ning Meng said as she picked her bag and dashed out of the room. Ying Sheng looked at her back, and an amusement glint passed through her eyes. She reminds her of a rabbit.

    Ying Sheng shook her head and picked her book from the table. Suddenly footsteps echoed in the quiet room. Ying Sheng looked up and saw Han Xi making his way towards her. Her heart thumped in her chest as he turned the chair in front of her to face her.

    He sat down and stared directly at her as he propped his chin in his palms. Ying Sheng averted her gaze to hide the emotions in her eyes.

    Without saying a word, she took her bag and made her way out of the lecture hall. Han Xi followed her outside.

    Ying Sheng ignored him until they reached a quiet ce where no one was around.

    Ying Sheng stopped and turned around.

    "What do you want, Han Xi?" She asked as she crossed her arms across her chest.

    "I wanted to see you. I miss you." He rubbed the back of his neck and grinned.

    Ying Sheng''s heart skipped a beat. It took everything she had not to blurt that she missed him too.

    "Okay, I hear. You can leave now." Ying Sheng said nonchntly.

    "I know I''m an asshole, but I will try to not hurt you again. You''re like my fucking sister, and I can''t always hurt you."

    ''Sister'' His words sting her heart. She didn''t want him to see her as his little sister. She wanted him to see her as a woman madly in love with him. She wanted him to look at her the same way she looked at that woman. She wanted to see his eyes swarming with desire and love for her!

    Ying Sheng turned around and ignored him. The moment she took a step forward, Han Xi gripped her hand, and before she could protest, he cupped the side of her head and pulled her to his chest.

    Ying Sheng froze as she listened to his heartbeat. Her mind went nk, and she forgot that she was angry at him. She felt him kiss the top of her head.

    Unbeknownst to Ying Sheng, who was enjoying being in her crush''s arms, she didn''t see a man watching her with an intense pain etched on his face. The man felt his heart cracking. With his heart falling on the ground, he left the ce before they could see him.

    "Ying Sheng, don''t be angry, okay? I''m sorry. You don''t know I haven''t slept well these past few days. The thought of you being mad at me makes me feel restless. I-"

    "Why?" Ying Sheng whispered. She felt him stiffened.

    Han Xi pulled her away and held her shoulders. He looked into her eyes.

    "Even though I might be a jerk to you sometimes. You mean a lot to me, Love."

    Ying Sheng was taken aback by his words. She looked into his eyes to detect if he was lying, but nothing showed that he was.

    "Let me take you to your favorite restaurant, okay?" Lost in his gaze, Ying Sheng subconsciously nodded.

    Han Xi beamed and moved his hands on her back and guided her to his car.

    He opened the door for her, and at that moment, Ying Sheng allowed herself to imagine that she was his girlfriend.

    Pathetic right? She knows, but as they say, love makes you foolish. It makes you throw every bit of logic away. It makes you do all sorts of crazy, impossible things with and for the person you love.

    **Double-tap to view author''s note

 Chapter 107 Just a Friend

    <h4>Chapter 107 Just a Friend</h4>

    Liam looked at the flowers in his hand; he couldn''t help but feel nervous. Was he abrupt in buying flowers for her? Liam wanted to ask Ying Sheng on a date, and his brother advised him to give her flowers sincedies love flowers.

    After mustering courage, he had driven to her school to ask her out. He asked someone to investigate if she was in school today beforeing here.

    His heart was thumping in his chest with every step he took towards her lecture hall. When he reached the lecture hall, he realized the ce was empty. Liam''s shoulders slumped in disappointment.

    Maybe it was a sign that this was a bad idea. Liam strode leisurely back to the car park. Suddenly he stopped when he heard a familiar voice.

    ''Ying Sheng?'' His dull eyes suddenly lit up. Liam walked towards the ce he heard the voice. He froze when he saw the scene in front of him. Ying Sheng was pulled into the arms of a man. Liam was sure that man was the same guy he saw her with when he came to pick her that day. Based on his tousled brown hair and the single earring hanging on his left ear.

    His heart just dropped to the pit of his stomach. Liam watched as the guy kissed her forehead. His head was spinning and threatening to explode. The color drained from his face as his body felt numb.

    Liam left the ce with a crushing sensation in his chest. He tossed the flowers he had gotten her on the ground. The petals dispersed across the ground.

    He felt so stupid for thinking she would like someone like him. She would definitely choose a bad boy, not an ugly nerd like him. Liam felt like a tremendous weight was on his chest.

    He sat in his car and punched the steering wheel, hoping it would reduce his heart''s difort. He covered his face with his hand. He could still feel the softness of her lips. He knew he was being irrational, but he wanted more than just a kiss.

    Liam can''t remember the number of times he has seen her in his dreams after the night she kissed her. He thought he had a chance with her. They had spent the past few days texting every day. She was beautiful. Liam always felt his heart beating fast anytime she smiles at him.

    He had fallen for the petty stuff about her, how she would stare at him, or tuck her head behind her eyes. Ever since he saw her lying on his bed with a tear-stricken face, something went off. He decided he would do everything to make her smile if she was happy. So will he be.

    Liam heaved a sigh; he didn''t know if he could ever erase her, taking his first kiss from his mind. He drove off, needing a moment to get over the fact that the first woman he loves might never love him back. Something substantial settled in his chest when he realized this sad truth.

    ---------

    Ying Sheng and Han Xi reached the restaurant. They were ushered into a private room as a waiter came to take their orders.

    "So¡­ how are you?" Han Xi suddenly asked, snapping her from out of her thoughts. Her eyes, which were on him, were now unfocused, and Ying Sheng looked away.

    "Alive." Ying Sheng replied.

    Han Xi leaned across the table, took hold of her hand in his, and squeezed it tightly. Ying Sheng looked at the hands he was holding, and her eyes gazed at him.

    "I know you''re having issues, but if you want to talk, I''m here." Han Xi said as his lips stretched into a smile.

    Ying Sheng just nodded, saying nothing. The waiter appeared before them and brought two tes containing their food. She ced it before them and asked if they needed anything else. They both shook their head, and the waiter left.

    "You don''t look happy to be here with me. I thought you had forgiven me." Han Xi chuckled. Ying Sheng rolled her eyes and started eating.

    "I never said I had forgiven you. It will take more than sorry for me to forgive you this time." She shrugged and said nonchntly.

    Han Xi trained his gaze on her, and suddenly she became wary, chewing her food slowly. She averted her gaze, and a blush tainted her cheeks.

    "Why is your face suddenly red? Are you sick?" Han Xi asked.

    Ying Sheng responded with a few incoherent words and shook her head.

    Han Xi raised his brows, but he said nothing. An awkward silence fell between them as they ate quietly.

    "You have something here." Han Xi mumbled she pointed towards the side of her lips. Ying Sheng froze a little before she lifted a napkin off the table to clean whatever was there.

    "Is it okay?" Ying Sheng asked once she finished cleaning her mouth.

    Ying Sheng''s heart fluttered in her chest, and her stomach swarmed with butterflies when she saw his eyes lingering on her lips. She couldn''t help but flicker her eyes down to his lips, tempted to kiss him. To confirm if his lips tasted sweet, like how he feels in her dreams.

    Han Xi cleared his throat and averted his gaze. He doesn''t know what came over him, but he really wanted to kiss her right now.

    Was he losing his mind? Why was he having these impure thoughts about her?

    "Yeah, it''s okay."

    Ying Sheng tucked a strand of hair behind her ears.

    "Thanks"

    Ying Sheng replied and focused on her food. She could feel his eyes on her as she ate.

    "What?" Ying Sheng asked, looking up.

    "That guy¡­ that came to pick you thest time. Are you into him or something?"

    "What? No. He is just a friend. He is a good guy, and well- he is the most caring person I have ever met."

    Han Xi took a sip of his wine and stared at her with a puzzled look on his face, seemingly not convinced.

 Chapter 108 Finally found you

    <h4>Chapter 108 Finally found you</h4>

    Yan Mei opened her eyes slowly and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. She covered her mouth with the back of her hands and yawned. She blushed when she realized Lei Zhao was staring at her. "What''s wrong? Is there something on my face?" Yan Mei asked.

    ''Was I snoring? Or is there drool on my face?'' Yan Mei thought since Lei Zhao was staring at her with a weird look on his face. She quickly cupped her mouth to check her cheek, and luckily her chin and cheeks were dry. Fortunately!

    An amusement glint passed through Lei Zhao''s eyes when he saw her action. ''My wife is adorable.''

    "Hmm, there is something on your face." Lei Zhao whispered. Yan Mei widened her eyes and cupped her face,

    "Really? What?"

    Lei Zhao scratched the back of his neck, "Well, you''re so beautiful that you made me forget my pickup line." Lei Zhao said with a mischievous smirk on his face.

    Yan Mei stared at him for a few seconds.

    "Ptff..." She held her stomach as she bust out intoughter. "Lei Zhao, are you trying to hit on me, this early morning. This-?"

    Before Yan Mei could tease him any further, Lei Zhao turned her and pressed her under him. He was between her legs, and their faces were inches apart as their eyes locked together.

    Yan Mei felt her heart beating erratically, and she froze. Lei Zhao''s hands were on the side of her face as she felt his one hand caressing her earlobe before removing her hair that was sticking on her face.

    "Wifey...I was thinking, why didn''t I meet you earlier?" Lei Zhao asked, gazing into her eyes.

    "But we are now together, aren''t we?" Yan Mei retorted as she giggled. Her hand held the back of his neck as her lips met his. She kissed him slowly, her tongue teasing him.

    Lei Zhao was shocked when the table turned as Yan Mei turned him over and sat on to him. She gave him a coy smile when she saw the disbelief look on her face. Yan Mei kissed the corners of his lips, followed by his nose. Her lips found his earlobe, and she bit it lightly, earning a groan of Lei Zhao.

    He cupped her ass and gave a small squeeze. Yan Mei moaned as she grazed the tip of her tongue on his jawline.

    She straddled hisp as his hands holding her ass tightened. Lei Zhao''s breath hitched, and he grunted.

    "Wifey¡­ stop," Yan Mei blinked and increased her pace.

    "What?" She blinked innocently.

    "This." Lei Zhao said as he raised his hips to meet her center. Yan Mei blushed when she felt his hard on.

    "Okay, I will go take a bath." Yan Mei said as she got off him, but Lei Zhao held her hand, stopping her.

    "Wifey...you can''t just leave. You''ve to do something about this.

    Lei Zhao said as his eyes flickered with desire.

    "Do something about what?" Yan Mei queried with a confused frown marred on her face.

    Lei Zhao grabbed her hand and ced it on his hard-on.

    "This, or I will get blue balls." Yan Mei looked at the ce her hands were, and she looked up at him.

    "I''m going to bete for work. You know I have piles of work waiting for me soter." Yan Mei said as she sent him a subtle wink.

    Lei Zhao grunted in frustration and released her hand. Yan Meiughed, "Hubby, don''t be dramatic. Blue balls have killed no one yet."

    Yan Mei teased him and strode to the bathroom.

    "Wifey...you''re going to pay for this." Lei Zhao shouted, making Yan Mei chuckled in the bathroom.

    ------

    "What time will you close from work today?" Lei Zhao asked Yan Mei. They were currently sitting inside the car with Lei Zhao driving.

    "It depends if I''m able to finish work early; then, I will leave early if not¡­"

    "Don''t overwork." Lei Zhao said, sternly cutting her off.

    "Alright."

    Twenty minutester, they reached their destination. "We are here."

    Lei Zhao said as he parked the car at the spot reserved for Yan Mei.

    "Yes." Yan Mei said as she held the door handle, ready to open it when Lei Zhao called her, causing her to turn and face him.

    "What''s wrong?" Yan Mei asked.

    She gasped when he suddenly pulled her towards him and kissed her. Yan Mei''s breath stopped at that moment because she was caught off guard.

    Lei Zhao pulled away, and their eyes locked. "I love you." He whispered, smiling that reached his eyes.

    Yan Mei couldn''t help but smile back. "I love you." She replied and kissed him passionately.

    After a while, she pulled back. A faint blush tainted her cheeks. "I-I have to go."

    Lei Zhao nodded and nted a kiss at her forehead. "Take care and call me when you are done. Don''te home by yourself."

    Yan Mei nodded, "Yes, Sir."

    Lei Zhao chuckled and shook his head helplessly.

    Yan Mei got down and walked towards the building. Lei Zhao watched her get inside before driving away. Unbeknownst to them, a terrible storm was brewing. As they say, there is always calm before the storms.

    ------

    Somewhere out there, a man was sittingzily on a sofa, crossing one long leg elegantly over the other at the knee. He sat with a masculine elegance with his left elbow propped on the armrest while the right handzily swirled the winess in his hand.

    Above his warm brown eyes, his hair had beenbed off his face. His face and aura would put men into shame. He had this devilish charm making him enticingly handsome. The man took a sip of the wine and hummed in appreciation. He enjoyed this serene moment since it''s the only time his monsters were calm.

    Suddenly, a mobile phone ringing sounded in the quiet room, breaking the tranquil atmosphere. His assistant standing behind him heart leaped into his throat as he trembled inside.

    He knew how his Boss hates being disturbed during this time. Dread twisted in the gut as he looked at the caller ID.

    "B-Boss¡­ it''s Snake. I-I think he has news." The assistant stuttered as he said with his voice thick with panic. He knew his Boss was a madman whose cruelty knew no bounds.

    The assistant can still remember the scene he watched his Boss skinned one of his men who betrayed his wife''s alive, making the man watch.

    At that moment, he concluded his Boss was beyond sick. He was simply mad.

    The man waved his hand, and with wobbly legs, the assistant gave him the phone.

    "Boss... I have finally found her!" An excited voice sounded at the other side the moment the call was picked up.

    The man''s hand holding the wine ss shaken a little.

    "What did you say?" He asked coldly, but he could hear the small shake in his voice if one listened closely.

    "Yes, Boss. You''re right about letting me monitor Wang Lu all these years. Feng Mei is alive, and she is in city S."

    The man''s heart skipped a beat, and his eyes flickered with an intense emotion difficult to decipher.

    "Keep an eye on her and report everything to me." The man ordered.

    "Yes, Boss. That..."

    "What?!" The man bellowed, hearing the hesitation in his voice.

    "She seems to have gotten married again since I see her always with a man."

    With a crack, thin cracks spread through the winess in his hand as his expression became cold. The deadly aura released by his Boss almost froze his secretary.

    ''What was wrong? Who has pissed his Boss this time?'' He asked himself as he prayed silently for the person.

    The man hung up the call, and a murderous smirk spread across his lips. ''Married?''

    He got up and strode slowly towards a room. In the ce, there was arge painting on the wall. The painting was a beautiful woman with a soft smile on her face. If Yan Mei was here, she would probably freak out because the woman in the painting was her.

    The man picked a knife on the table and threw it at the painting hanging on the wall. The knife hit the woman''s forehead, destroying the beauty of the painting.

    An evil smile spread on the man''s lips.

    "Feng Mei, Feng Mei. I have finally found you." The man startedughing manically, sending shivers along the servants'' spine.

    Author''s Note. : Hiyo i wanted to thank you guys for your support and announced that I won''t update until Sept 1. I''m sorry for the inconvenience. Take care!

 Chapter 109 Video Call

    <h4>Chapter 109 Video Call</h4>

    Author''s Note: Hiyo...i''m finally back! i hope we are all good. I owe you guys mass release for waiting patiently. Don''t worry I will surprise you! THank you for your supports!

    "Sir, the documents you requested for." Ye Xing said as he ced the documents on the desk. Without looking up from a load of paperwork piled on his desk, Lei Zhao gave Ye Xing a small nod and resumed reading the contract.

    Lei Zhao was a known workaholic after the death of his brother, but these couple of months, he has barely worked. His mind had stopped thinking about business deals, and instead, his wife preupied him.

    He was known for not taking breaks, vacations, or even postponing a meeting, but after he got married, Lei Zhao realized that he couldn''t leave his wife. Being with her gave him peace, and those moments were his happiest. No matter how much he spends with her, it seems it wasn''t enough.

    Lei Zhao never thought he would be such a doting husband who will risk big business deals to spend time with his wife. If his friends knew this, they would definitelyugh at him.

    Now that his wife has also fallen in love with him, he feels as if a heavy burden has been removed from his heart. He feels everything is going too smoothly for them. At the back of his mind, he feels this is just the calm before the storm. A pending doom has been tugging at his heart these past few days.

    Lei Zhao shook his head; maybe he was overthinking. He needed to focus on his work since lots of people''s lives depended on thispany, and he couldn''t be selfish. Lei Zhao rubbed his temples, and his lips twisted into a soft smile as his wife''s beautiful face shed across his eyes.

    Ye Xing raised his brows when he saw the soft smile on his boss''s face. It was rare to see his boss smile after the death of his brother. Ye Xing knew his boss''s wife was slowly changing the lonely and ruthless man to a loving and happier man.

    Honestly, he preferred this side of his Boss. Never in his wildest dream did he ever think that boss was going to b a henpecked husband one day.

    His boss didn''t even treat Miss Yun, his ex-girlfriend, like this. Even though the public thought Lei Zhao was madly in love with Yun Zhou, it was all a lie. Ye Xing knew better. His boss just treated her like a sister and gave her everything she wanted. Ye Xing even thinks his boss never touc-

    "Ye Xing, are you monitoring Mr. Wang?" Lei Zhao asked, snapping Ye Xing from his thoughts.

    "Yes, Boss." Ye Xing replied.

    Lei Zhao nodded in satisfaction. He needed to keep on that guy in case he tries to harm his wife.

    "Boss, is there anything you need?"

    Lei Zhao shook his head, "No, I will call you when I need something."

    Ye Xing retreated out of the office, leaving Lei Zhao to his work.

    Lei Zhao took a deep breath and looked at the paperwork he had yet to go through. He was itching to hear his wife''s voice, but he knew better than to do that. After going through six ns prepared by his team for a project he was currently working on, Lei Zhao rubbed his neck''s back with tiredness between his brows.

    Lei Zhao pushed himself back, leaning on the chair. He looked at his watch, which Yan Mei gave him, and realized it was two pm.

    He wonders if his wife has eaten. He knew she was a workaholic just like him. ''Did she forget to eat?'' Lei Zhao''s brows bumped together as he picked up his phone.

    Lei Zhao sighed; he wanted to call her but decided against it. Maybe she was busy. So, he sent a text message.

    ------

    Yan Mei was having a meeting with her executives. They were currently discussing who to choose to represent their new collections. A phone vibrating sounded in the conference room, interrupting Yan Mei, who was speaking.

    The executives held their breath as panic stroked inside them. They were afraid it was one of them who had forgotten to turn off his phone; they looked at each other, mumbling.

    The executives realized their boss was in a good mood today, but they didn''t dare risk anything to make her angry. The words got stuck in their throat when they saw their boss looking at her phone with a soft smile, making her usually aloof features soft.

    Lei Zhao; Wifey, I miss you.

    Yan Mei stared at Lei Zhao''s message, ignoring the question gazes they were giving her. Before she could reply, Lei Zhao sent another message.

    Lei Zhao: Busy?

    Yan Mei quickly replied,

    Yan Mei: No.

    Lei Zhao; Wifey. I miss you so much I can''t concentrate on work. Let me see your beautiful face.

    Yan Mei bit her lips and swept an icy gaze across the executives, warning them not to make noise.

    Yan Mei then called Lei Zhao on a video call. The moment he picked up the call, Yan Mei sucked in a deep breath. Lei Zhao was wearing a ck suit jacket that highlighted his broad shoulders and arms. He was wearing a white shirt underneath, unbuttoned at the top, wearing no tie. He looked divine. This man was so handsome it was a sin.

    Yan Mei blinked and tried to calm her erratic heartbeat. A big smirk spread across Lei Zhao''s mouth, which turned into a big sexy smile.

    "Wifey is your husband that handsome that you''re staring at him like you want to eat him."

    The executives'' eyes almost fell out from their sockets when they heard the deep-velvet voice.

    ''Husband?'' when did their irondy get married? They were curious about the man who can tame their boss, making her look like a docile wife.

    Su Bei looked at her friend glowing, and she shook her head helplessly. This woman wants to kill them with dog food this afternoon. But deep down, she was happy for her friend. Finally, she has found happiness.

    AUTHOR''S CORNER.

    Guys we are having an event! If an author gets at least 500 privilege readers by the end of the month WN will reward both the author and readers so please LET''S SUPPORT EAH OTHER!

    WN will give each reader 300coins if we are able to win hehe. I know money it''s hard now but please you can support me by buying the Tier 1 which is 1 coin for 2 chapters also help your favorite couples acheive their goals! how? By buying privilege this would motivate me to work harder and release more chappies hehehe. more chappies equals closer to achievingthe goal

    GOALs

    YAn Mei : Find the culprits responsible for the death of her child.

    Lei Zhao : Find the person responsible for his brother''s death.

    Ying Sheng : Find self-love and happiness

    LIam : Get his bad girl to notice him ! XD

    Niu NIu : Birthday outing with his Boo Boo

    Thank you all in advance!

 Chapter 110 Trip

    <h4>Chapter 110 Trip</h4>

    Yan Mei''s lips tilted upward, "Hmm, my husband is very handsome."

    A look of surprise flickered in Lei Zhao''s eyes; he wasn''t expecting her to say this. Looking at the smile on Yan Mei''s face, Lei Zhao was utterly mesmerized, and he stared at her in a daze like a love-struck fool.

    "What?" Yan Mei asked as she raised her eyebrows

    "My wife is so beautiful that I can''t stop staring at her." A faint blush spread on Yan Mei''s cheeks when she heard him.

    The executives opened their mouth in utter shock. Did they... just witness their Boss blushing? God¡­ was the world about to end? The surprise was too much for them to handle, but years of working in the mall helped them to mask their expression.

    "Have you had lunch?" Yan Mei asked, trying to hide her embarrassment.

    "No, I just finished some work. What about you? Have you eaten?"

    Yan Mei bit her lips and shook her head.

    "No."

    A frown marred on Lei Zhao''s face when he heard her.

    "Remember to eat after the call, okay?" Lei Zhao said in a stern CEO voice that made it difficult to refuse.

    A smile crept Yan Mei''s face, and she nodded. Even though his voice was stern, Yan Mei wasn''t angry; she knew he was just worried about her.

    "You, too, remember to eat." Yan Mei said softly, melting Lei Zhao''s heart in mere seconds.

    Lei Zhao chuckled, "Okay."

    "Now concentrate on your work to make more money."

    Lei Zhao''s lips curved into a smile. "Alright, with my wife cheering me on, I will work harder."

    The executives nearly had constipation. Can these people stop feeding them dog food?! The executives protested inwardly, but none of them dared to voice it out.

    Now that he has seen her, Lei Zhao felt content. Now he can bury himself into work.

    "Remember to have lunch." Lei Zhao reminded her softly.

    "I will." With a nod, he hung up the call.

    Su Bei looked at her friend being happy, and she couldn''t help but feel a brief pang in her chest. Will she find someone who would love her?

    "Let''s continue." Yan Mei said tly, putting her phone down.

    The executives felt their Boss was simply inhuman. How was she able to turn from a sweet, loving wife to her usual aloof side in the blink of an eye?

    "President, we were suggesting using Li Wei as the representative for the men''s collection. Since he is the hottest idol in the country now."

    Yan Mei''s brows bumped together as she tapped her fingers on the desk. ''Li Wei.'' Why does that name sound familiar? Suddenly an evil smirk appeared on Yan Mei''s lips. Oh, he is that rude cousin of Lei Zhao; she met that day.

    "No, find someone else." Yan Meimented.

    The executives turned to look at each other, "But pre-"

    Yan Mei''s icy stare cut off the man''s words. He swallowed nervously.

    "What about the female model?" Yan Mei inquired.

    "President, we are still discussing with her. She.. she wants us to double her pay."

    A cold light shed through Yan Mei''s eyes. "Increase her pay? Why is she a queen or something? We are paying twice more than the averagepany, and she still wants us to increase her pay?"

    Yan Mei scoffed. She hates these arrogant and entitled celebrities.

    Suddenly a certain red-haired shed in Yan Mei''s mind. She was bold, fierce, and sexy. She fit her collection perfectly.

    "No need. Tell her we won''t work with her anymore. I have someone in mind." Yan Mei said.

    "Is there anything else?" Yan Mei asked the executives.

    The executives widened their eyes in surprise. This is the mostfortable meeting they have had since they joined thispany.

    Now their Boss was asking them if they have anything to say. This is the first time their Boss has asked them this question. She always walked out on them the moment the meeting ends.

    The executives made a mental note to hug Lei Zhao''s thighs. Just one call from him and their Boss''s mood was this good.

    They shook their head aggressively.

    Yan Mei nodded and stood up, "Thank you all for your hard work."

    Then she was gone before they could respond, with Su Bei following behind her.

    An uproar broke out in the conference room once Yan Mei left. Now everyone was curious about the man who has been able to tame their irondy.

    ------

    The moment Lei Zhao hung up the call, Ye Xing entered.

    "Boss." He called out politely, making Lei Zhao looked up from his desk.

    "Ye Xing? Anything urgent?" Lei Zhao asked.

    "Sorry to disturb you, Boss, but Mr. Andre wanted you toe personally to New York to sign the contract. His daughter suddenly got sick, and he can''t leave her toe to China."

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh, analyzing the situation. Although he didn''t want to leave Yan Mei, he knew the importance of this contract. It was what he has been working hard for all these years. He couldn???t let this chance go. After having a debate with himself, Lei Zhao finally decided to go to New York. He would deal with the business and quicklye home.

    "Okay, arrange the meeting in two days."

    Ye Xing nodded, "Alright, Boss. Is there anything you want me to do?"

    "No."

    Ye Xing nodded before leaving the office.

    Lei Zhao blew out air. If it were any other day, he wouldn''t mind leaving, but the thought of leaving his wife alone to sleep on a cold bed bothered him. He has gotten used to sleeping beside him, hearing her soft snore.

    Gosh, he was totally whipped that he couldn''t bear to leave his wife for a few days.

    "I will make sure toe back early." Lei Zhao mumbled as he envisioned Yan Mei''s reaction when he tells her.

    But as they say, not everything goes as nned. If Lei Zhao knew the demons waiting to swallow him on this trip, he wouldn''t have gone.

    Author''s Note. : Hiyo i wanted to thank you guys for your support and announced that I won''t update until Sept 1. I''m sorry for the inconvenience. Take care!

 Chapter 111 Celebrating

    <h4>Chapter 111 Celebrating</h4>

    Before Yan Mei would close from work, she received a message from Lei Zhao that he can''t pick her up, so he would send Ye Xing to pick her. At first, Yan Mei was disheartened, but she reasoned that maybe Lei Zhao was busy. Massaging the back of her neck, Yan Mei shut down herputer, picked her bag, and walked out of her office. Because she had promised Lei Zhao that she wouldn''t overwork, she closed early today.

    Saying goodbye to Su Bei, Yan Mei made her way to the parking lot; she saw Ye Xing was already waiting for her.

    "Madam." Ye Xing said politely as he opened the door for Yan Mei. She nodded politely and sat at the back. Silence fell in the car as Ye Xing started driving. Yan Mei leaned back against the seat and closed her eyes.

    Ye Xing stole a nce at Yan Mei through the rear-view mirror when they stopped at a red traffic light signal. Yan Mei opened her eyes and gazed out at the slow-moving traffic.

    "Ye Xing, is there something you want to say?" Yan Mei asked bluntly as she turned to look at Ye Xing. A trace of surprise passed through Ye Xing''s eyes. He didn''t think Yan Mei would see him stealing nces at her.

    Even though he had been caught, he was not the one to shy away from things. So he told Yan Mei what he was thinking.

    "Yes, I think Boss is lucky to have met Miss. Your presence has brought happiness in his life." Ye Xingmented.

    "No, I''m the one who is lucky to have met him." Yan Mei retorted with a small smile.

    Ye Xing nced at Yan Mei and nodded, saying nothing.

    Twenty minutester, they reached their destination. Before Ye Xing could get down to open the door for Yan Mei, she opened the door by herself and strode towards the door.

    Yan Mei frowned when she realized the lights were on. Was Lei Zhao home? When she entered, she saw Lei Zhaoing from the bedroom.

    "Lei Zhao." Yan Mei''s heart skipped a beat when her eyes met his. She ran to him; a grin tugged at Lei Zhao''s lips as he held his arms out, weing her into a tight embrace. Yan Mei jumped into his arms, wrapping her legs around his waist and arms around his neck. She kissed his lips grinning,

    "Wee home." Lei Zhao said as he kissed her passionately.

    Yan Mei kissed him back as Lei Zhao wrapped his arms around her.

    "Well, this is a good wee." Yan Mei chuckled.

    "Did you miss me?" Yan Mei inquired. Lei Zhao grinned and nodded.

    Yan Mei''s arms and legs tightened around him.

    "So, how much did you miss me?" She whispered as a mischievous smile spilled from her lips.

    "Hmm¡­" Lei Zhao trailed off as if he was thinking about his answer.

    "Oh¡­ only a little." He teased.

    A gleam of deviltry passed through Yan Mei''s eyes.

    "Only a little?" Yan Mei pouted.

    "Then I guess you would sleep alone tonight and the nights after," She mumbled as she unwrapped her legs and slid on the floor.

    Without waiting for his response, she walked past him towards the bedroom.

    Lei Zhao chuckled and grabbed her hand, pulling her into his chest. He stroked the side of her face and trailed a finger along the line of her jaw. He touched her neck and down to the top of her silky shirt.

    "Wifey, I''m just joking. I missed you. I could barely concentrate on work. It seems whatever spell you cast on me is working." Lei Zhao said as he chuckled.

    "You''re constantly in my head, and I can''t get you out of my mind." Lei Zhao lifted her chin with his finger and stared into her eyes.

    Yan Mei bit her lips, and Lei Zhao''s eyes went down to her lips before going back to her eyes. Lei Zhao''s eyes shed, and he crushed his lips on hers.

    Yan Mei kissed him back as she ran her fingers through his hair. He pulled away, and Yan Mei slipped her arm around his waist and tucked herself into her side.

    Her headid on her shoulders, sighing contently. Even though they saw each other this morning, she misses him. Ten hours of not seeing each were torturous for her.

    Yan Mei looked up at him, "When did youe home? I thought you''re busy."

    Lei Zhao cupped her face and kissed the tip of her nose.

    "I wanted to prepare a surprise for you." He said with a smile as his thumb caressed her cheeks.

    "Surprise?" Yan Mei raised her brows curiously.

    "Yes, Love. Now go and change." Lei Zhao smiled and pressed a kiss on her forehead.

    "Wait for me."

    Yan Mei pulled away from him and gave him a wink before walking away, purposely swaying her hips.

    Lei Zhao chuckled and shook his head helplessly.

    "You little temptress."

    -----

    After Yan Mei finished changing into a simple n che inserted round neck dress with short sleeves, she came downstairs.

    Yan Mei raised her brows when she saw Lei Zhao, who has furrowed his brows as he sat in deep thought.

    "Hey, it''s everything okay?" Lei Zhao looked up at her and smiled.

    "Yeah." He stood up and walked towards her.

    "Ready for the surprise?" Lei Zhao asked, smiling.

    Yan Mei nodded, "Alright, I''m getting really curious now."

    Lei Zhao flickered her nose. "Okay, let''s go."

    He held her hands and led her towards the dining room.

    "Surprise!" Lei Zhao chuckled as he kissed her cheeks.

    Yan Mei stared at the dining table; rose petals were decorating the top of it. Two wine buckets were off to the side, holding wine within them.

    Yan Mei was speechless. She wasn''t expecting him to prepare such a romantic dinner for her.

    Lei Zhao led her to the table before pulling out a chair for her.

    "So, what are we celebrating?" Yan Mei asked as she looked up at him.

 Chapter 112 Only yours

    <h4>Chapter 112 Only yours</h4>

    Lei Zhao let out a husky chuckle, then smirked at her.

    "I just want to pamper my wife, can''t I do that?" Yan Mei narrowed her eyes when she heard his words.

    "Okay, spill it. Did you do something that would make me punish if I find out?"

    A trace of light passed through Lei Zhao''s eyes, but he quickly masked it.

    "Actually.." Lei Zhao shut his eyes tightly as frustration surged through him. He didn''t want to leave Yan Mei. Lei Zhao estimated that this trip would take at least three days.

    "Wifey.." Lei Zhao called out.

    Yan Mei squinted her eyes when she saw his reactions.

    "I have to fly out tomorrow to New York for a business trip."

    Even though he had scheduled the meeting the day after tomorrow, Lei Zhao had to go a day before to prepare adequately. Time was a luxury for businessmen, and Lei Zhao didn''t want to bete for the meeting. He nced at Yan Mei as he waited for her to say something.

    Yan Mei''s heart dropped a bit, hearing. Lei Zhao was leaving, but she knew he has been dying his work for her, so she can''t be selfish.

    She stretched out and ced a hand on Lei Zhao''s hand, lying on the table.

    "Remember, you have to work hard to make more money for us." Yan Mei said, trying to lighten the atmosphere

    A smile formed on Lei Zhao''s lips. "Of course, I promise to make more money. I need to make my wife proud."

    Yan Mei nodded. Even though she tried to act that she was okay with this, Lei Zhao saw the trace of sadness in her eyes.

    "I won''t be long. I will be back before you know it." Lei Zhaomented with a smile.

    "That''s good, or someone might steal me if you take long." Yan Mei smirked mischievously.

    "No-no, you''re now mine. I will kill anyone who dares to steal you from me."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes, "Possessive much?"

    Lei Zhao scoffed, then smile.

    "No one is taking you away from me, Wifey. Keep that in mind."

    Yan Mei''s heart skipped a beat, hearing his possessive words.

    Yan Mei cleared her throat and looked at the food on the table.

    Looking at her face''s eager look, Lei Zhao took the cover from the te, revealing an appetizing steak with potatoes. It looked amazing and smelled good.

    Yan Mei''s eyes sparkled, and she fidgeted. She couldn''t want to taste it.

    Lei Zhao chuckled and poured wine into their sses.

    "Let''s toast." He said as he raised his ss.

    "A toast to what?" She asked as she bit her lips.

    "A toast to the most beautiful woman." Yan Mei blushed before clinking their sses together, and they took a sip of their wine.

    The spent the rest of the night talking about random things. At the back of their mind, they knew every second was priceless to them.

    "So, I want to hire your cousin to be the model for my new female collections. What do you think?"

    Lei Zhao furrowed his brows, "Ying Sheng?" he questioned.

    "Yes. I think she fits the theme of the exhibition well." Yan Mei exined as she trained her eyes on him.

    "Are you sure? Ying Sheng has quite a reputation in the higher society. Also, thest time I checked, she had zero knowledge about modeling." Lei Zhaomented.

    Yan Mei nodded, "I''m sure."

    Lei Zhao smiled, "As long as you''re happy."

    "Also, I rejected your cousin, Li Wei. I don''t want to work with him."

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh when he heard Yan Mei.

    "It''s yourpany as long as you''re ufortable with working with the person. You don''t have toprise because he is family."

    Yan Mei smiled and nodded, "Alright."

    --------

    After they had dinner, Yan Mei suggested they go out for a walk. Lei Zhao agreed.

    They walked on the sidewalk hand in hand.

    "Did you like the food?" Li Zhao suddenly asked as he looked at Yan Mei.

    She smiled and nodded, "My hubby is the best cook in the world. It''s the best steak I have ever had."

    Lei Zhao grinned, "I''m d you like it." Lei Zhao said as he looked at her.

    "I will learn new recipes when Ie back." Lei Zhao said with so much enthusiasm that Yan Mei felt he looked adorable.

    Yan Mei realized she has never seen Lei Zhao being serious like what the tabloids say about him. She remembers searching about him that day after he told her his background. He is always boyish and carefree, not like the ruthless businessman people dubbed him to be.

    They went to sit on a bench. Lei Zhao pulled into his arms with her back leaning on his chest.

    "Look at all those women gazing at you. I want to gouge their eyes out." Yan Meiined as she pouted.

    "I don''t care about other women. You''re the only woman in my eyes." Lei Zhao whispered huskily in her ears.

    "You''re the only woman. Mine." Lei Zhao dered possessively as he nuzzled her neck.

    Warmth flooded in Yan Mei''s body.

    "As you''re mine." Yan Mei retorted pompously.

    Lei Zhao pressed his cheek against her head, "Hmm. Only yours."

    They held each other as they stared at the moon. They were cherishing the feeling of being in each other''s arms. Neither of them said anything, just quietly enjoying the night as if it was theirst.

    "I''m going to miss you." Yan Mei suddenly said, breaking the silence.

    Yan Mei pulled away and looked up at him.

    "As I said, I would be back before you would even realize. My home is you, and I would alwayse home, the ce you are."

    Yan Mei nodded, "I love you."

    Yan Mei dered as a small blush spread across her cheeks.

    "I love you more." Lei Zhao dered as he smashed his lips onto hers.

    Unbeknownst, someone was taking pictures of their precious time together.

 Chapter 113 Take her happiness

    <h4>Chapter 113 Take her happiness</h4>

    Yan Mei was sleeping on Lei Zhao''s chest as he ran his fingers through her hair. Lei Zhao looked at the time and sighed. It was an hour past midnight, but his wife still hasn''t slept. Not that he wasining, he enjoyed this moment with her.

    Yan Mei didn''t want to sleep; she wanted to spend the next few hours with Lei Zhao. The thought of not seeing him for the next few days saddened her. She realized she has be clingy nowadays.

    "Wifey¡­ you know I will be back in three days, at least." Lei Zhao asked as he chuckled.

    Yan Mei nodded.

    "Juste back home safely, okay?" Yan Mei didn''t know, but she felt a sense of dread in her gut.

    She didn''t want to think about it. Yan Mei felt it was expected since Lei Zhao was leaving her for a few days. Maybe it was the emptiness that was messing with her mind.

    Lei Zhao nted a kiss on her forehead. "I will." He assured her.

    "Will you call when yound?" Yan Mei asked as emptiness was consuming her.

    Lei Zhao chuckled, "Yes, I will call you, and every day, the little chance I get."

    Lei Zhao promised and then smiled.

    "Will you talk to other girls?" Lei Zhao shook his head helplessly. He wanted to tell her that the stewardess and hotel receptionist would be a woman, but he just replied, "Of course I won''t."

    Yan Mei nodded in satisfaction and kissed him.

    Lei Zhao responded as he hovered on top of her. He saw her eyes flickering with lust as they stared at him.

    "Lei Zhao." Yan Mei breathed.

    Lei Zhao felt as if something had snapped inside him when he heard her calling him with need and love. That sound was the sexiest sound he has ever heard. The sound of your wife wanting you.

    Lei Zhao bent down and kissed her passionately. Yan Mei''s hands went around his back and caressed him.

    Lei Zhao trailed kisses down her jaw to her neck. Yan Mei moaned as she raked her hands into his hair.

    Lei Zhao removed her nightdress she was wearing, baring her naked to him. He just stared at her for a minute as if he wanted to imprint every inch of her body in his brain.

    Lei Zhao took his time as he kissed, licked, and sucked every inch of her body. He flickered her nipples with his thumb, causing shivers along her spine. Yan Mei moaned, arching for more. Lei Zhao''s breath fanned on her skin, causing her to shiver.

    Lei Zhao''s lips trailed across her stomach, nting kisses along the way. Looking at his flushed face and need for him, Lei Zhao smirked. He slid down, licking his way to her thighs. Lei Zhao licked the length of her slit before he probed further to lick her clit. Yan Mei gasped, her eyes rolling at the back of her head at the sensation.

    Lei Zhao rolled his tongue around her bud as she tried to close her legs to control the ecstasy he was driving her in. Just as she was about to cum, Lei Zhao stopped and looked up at her.

    Yan Mei bemoaned and pushed him onto his back, and then she straddled him. Lei Zhao watched as she bit her lips and held his cock.

    "I promise you today, right?" Yan Mei asked as she grinned.

    In one swift movement, she took all of him. Lei Zhao grunted as he held her waist.

    They just stared at each other, gazing into each other''s eyes. After a minute, Yan Mei began to move slowly, teasing Lei Zhao. He was going crazy. He wanted to thrust into her harder, deeper, but it seems his wife wanted to torture him.

    Looking at the pained look on his face, Yan Mei began to increase her pace as her moans grew louder. Her breast bounced in front of him. Lei Zhao cupped her breast and flickered her nipples with his thumb, causing her to cry out.

    "Ah!" Lei Zhao felt her clench around him. Suddenly, Lei Zhao bent her and held her hands behind her back. He took control and thrust into her harder and deeper.

    "Lei Zhao!" Yan Mei cried out his name. Hearing her voice filled with need drove him crazy. Lei Zhao increased his pace, and he felt her tightened around his cock. Lei Zhao took one of her breasts into his mouth, and that''s all it took for her walls to tighten.

    "Ahh!" Yan Mei moaned as Lei Zhao picked up his pace. He felt his own releaseing. Lei Zhao thrust a couple of times before spilling inside her with a gritted sound. Lei Zhao hugged her possessively before pulling himself out of her.

    Yan Mei moaned as she fit her eyelids bing heavier. Lei Zhao looked through the windows and realized the unavoidable wasing.

    --------

    A man looked at a picture on hisputer, and his veins popped out. Rage flowed through him likeva.

    He clenched his fists as anger poured through him. A man and a woman were kissing passionately in the picture. The man wanted to smash something as he scrolled down the photos on hisptop.

    How can she be happy? He would never let her be happy over his dead body! People like her don''t deserve happiness, and he would take hers from her.

    The man chuckled mirthlessly as he mumbled her name, "Feng Mei, Feng Mei."

    His secretary widened his eyes when he heard the name. He knew how much his boss hates this woman. They have been looking for her for years, but it''s like she disappeared from the face of the earth. Now that they have found her, the secretary couldn''t help but break a sweat for her.

    "Lu Jiang." The man called his secretary.

    "B-Boss."

    The secretary answered, shivering.

    "What do you think would happen if she lost her dear husband?"

    The man asked as heughed humorlessly.

 Chapter 114 Die a virgin

    <h4>Chapter 114 Die a virgin</h4>

    Yan Mei woke up to the bright sunlight shining through her windows. She rose to a sitting position and rubbed her eyes briskly. Suddenly she nced around the room half expecting to find Lei Zhao there but he was gone.

    Yan Mei shoulders slumped in disappointment. She wanted to say goodbye to him before he leaves. But she guessed this is good; if she had seen him maybe she would have begged him not to go and stay with her.

    Her eyes found the letter on the bedstand. Yan Mei picked it up and a smile creep on her face as she saw the content in the paper.

    "Wifey, if you see this it means I''m must probably in the ne now. I didn''t wake you up because I was afraid, I wouldn''t be able to leave you if I saw your face. Remember to drink your medicine. Don''t overwork and take care. I will be counting the seconds until I have you in my arms again. Also, try to not miss me too much. I love you."

    Yan Mei held the letter to her chest and closed her eyes. She took a deep breath and sighed. It seems she has to get used living alone for these next few days.

    Heaving a sigh, she walked to the bathroom to get ready for work.

    **

    The elevator opened and Yan Mei walked to her office. Because Lei Zhao wasn''t around and the house was empty, Yan Mei came to work early. Su Bei was on the phone so Yan Mei nodded at her as she by passed her to her office.

    Su Bei hurriedly hung up the phone and followed Yan Mei. The moment Yan Mei entered the office she heard Su Bei''s footstepsing her way.

    "So how is Mr. Lei." Su Bei asked teasingly

    "Good." Yan Mei replied mncholy.

    "How are you?" Yan Mei asked trying to shift the subject from Lei Zhao. She was not in the mood to talk about him. Talking about him will arose the empty feeling she has been feeling since she found he would be going on a trip.

    "I''m good." Su Bei replied softly but Yan Mie saw the trace of sadness on her face.

    "What is wrong?" Yan Mei inquired.

    A confusion frown adorned on Su Bei''s face.

    "Don''t pretend you''re okay, Beibei." Yan Mei said as she shook her head.

    "I''m I that transparent with my emotions? Is it written all over my face?!" Su Bei squealed.

    At this moment she wished she could hide her emotions and have poker face like her friend.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes and ignored her question. "Okay spill it. What''s going on?"

    Su Bei sat sloppily on the chair in front of Yan Mei and sighed, "It''s just¡­."

    Su Bei trailed off and licked her lips. "You''re already married and I see how happy you''re now. I''m here I will be twenty-seven in a few weeks and I have never had a boyfriend. I don''t want to die a virgin!"

    Yan Mei bust out intoughter when she heard her friend. Su Bei crossed her arms across her chest and red at Yan Mei.

    She snorted, "You don''t know how it feels to see all your mates married, some even have kids."

    Su Beiined and sounded like she was about to cry. Yan Mei cleared her throat.

    "Sorry, it just the virgin part got me." Yan Mei exined.

    "You''re beautiful, and smart. You will find a man if you want." Yan Mei mumbled cidly.

    Su Bei stared at Yan Mei, "I-I."

    "I can set you up with Leng Shao if you want." Yan Mei said with a mischievous smirk.

    Suddenly the man with the dimple and gentle aura shed through Su Bei''s mind. Even though they had hardly talk Su Bei can still remember his sexy voice.

    Su Bei blushed and shook her head, "No-no. Actually, I still have my mother to take care of that''s why I haven''t been in a rtionship. After my father''s death, she just lost it." Su Bei exined.

    "I don''t know what to say but you can''t stay with your mother forever. Also, I''m here if you need any help."

    Su Bei nodded.

    "I can set up a blind date with a bigshot if you want." Yan Mei continued.

    "You will?" Su Bei murmured staring at Yan Mei.

    "Yes, if you want. I know many nice CEOs. I can hook you up." Yan Mei threw her a subtle wink.

    SU Bei flushed and decided to ignore Yan Mei. She felt her friend was pulling her leg.

    "Did you prepare the list of people for the vice president position.?" Yan Mei asked returning to business mode.

    "Yes, I have I would send you the list."

    Yan Mei nodded as she turned on herputer.

    "Is there anything you need?"

    "Yes, a cup of coffee and the list as soon as possible."

    Su Bei nodded and left Yan Mei to herself. Appointing a vice president would make life easier for her and get time to spend with Lei Zhao.

    Yan Mei started her work for the day which was the preparation of the lunching of her new collections.

    ------

    After immersing herself in her work for five hours straight, Yan Mei decided to stand up and stretched her body. Sitting down continuously for too long was not good.

    Yan Mei stood up and walked to the panoramic window of her office that overlooked the streets. Yan Mei rested her hands on the thick ss and looked at the busy streets. She looked down at the phone in her right hand and looked at the time.

    Lei Zhao should have arrived. Her face scrunched into a frown. Yan Mei wondered why Lei Zhao hadn''t call yet.

    Opening her Messaging app, she typed a quick meeting.

    Yan Mei: Hubby, have you arrived safely?

    Yan Mei tapped her foot rapidly on the floor as she waited for him to reply. Unfortunately, Lei Zhao didn''t reply, leaving Yan Mei disheartened.

 Chapter 115 Naughty

    <h4>Chapter 115 Naughty</h4>

    Yan Mei went back to her seat after staring at the street in a daze for a few minutes. She leaned against her chair and blew out air. Maybe Lei Zhao was busy that''s why he didn''t call. Yan Mei knew there is no way Lei Zhao wouldn''t call her if he had reached.

    Yan Mei''s phone started ringing half an hourter while she was typing something on herputer. She looked at the caller ID hoping it would be Lei Zhao but it was her Grandfather. A soft smile formed on her lips as she answered the call.

    "Grandpa." Yan Mei greeted but Grandpa Yan snorted.

    "So, you remember that you have a grandfather!"

    Yan Mei chuckled, "Sorry grandpa. I have been busy"

    "You-" A fit of cough interrupted Grandpa Yan.

    "You mean busy with your married life that you have forgotten this old man." He continued after the cough ended.

    Yan Mei''s brows furrowed when she heard her grandfather coughing.

    "Grandpa, are you okay?" Yan Mei asked with concern evident in her tone.

    Grandpa Yan huffed, "If you are worried about me you should have called me. I see that husband has been keeping you busy." Grandpa Yanined but his voice was thick with love and concern.

    Yan Mei giggled hearing the old manining. Wasn''t he the one who wanted her to get married? Why is heining now? Yan Mei shook her head helplessly.

    "Grandpa what about Ipensate you? I wille and spend a few days with you." Lei Zhao wasn''t home and Yan Mei didn''t want to stay in the empty house alone.

    Grandpa Yan brows knitted together. It wasn''t eptable for a married woman to spend days in her family''s home after marriage without her husband so Grandpa Yan was worried.

    "Yan Mei are you sure? Will your husband agree?" He asked worriedly.

    "Yes, Lei Zhao isn''t home. He has gone on a business trip." Yan Mei exined.

    "Alright then. I will expect you." Grandpa Yan said excitedly. He has missed spending quality time with his granddaughter.

    "Okay grandpa, see you soon." Yan Mei said and hung up the call.

    -----

    The moment Lei Zhaonded, he removed his phone from his pocket and switched it on. Because of the flight, he had turned it off.

    He saw Yan Mei''s message, and he felt a pang in his chest. She must probably be worried about him. Lei Zhao had dyed his flight because he wanted to personally ensure Yan Mei''s protection. Now that the culprit responsible for her plight five years ago was on the loose he didn''t want to risk her life.

    He had selected one of his best fighters to protect her in the shadows. He dialed her number as he disembarked from the ne.

    "The number you''re calling is busy. Please try again."

    Lei Zhao''s brows furrowed and cut the call. He walked towards the car waiting to pick him up. The driver greeted him in fluent English, "Mr. Lei, wee to New York."

    Lei Zhao nodded and got into the car. He leaned against the seat and gaze through the windows looking at the sceneries along the way.

    Lei Zhao called her again. After a few rings, Yan Mei picked up the call.

    "Yan Mei speaking." She said in a professional tone. Lei Zhao smirked he knew she didn''t check the caller ID before picking up the call.

    "How is my beautiful wife?" Lei Zhao asked with a huge grin on her face.

    "Lei Zhao! Thank God. I was worried." Yan Meiined with a hint of weary in her voice. Hearing her voice made all his tiredness and jet leg disappeared.

    "Sorry Wifey, I dyed my flight to take care of certain issues." Lei Zhao exined.

    "I''m d you''re okay¡­" Yan Mei trailed off.

    "I miss you already." She continued with a hint of longing in her voice.

    "I miss you too. What are you doing now?" Lei Zhao inquired.

    "I''m working." Yan Mei replied.

    Lei Zhao frowned when heard her.

    "Have you eaten? Did you take your medicine?"

    Yan Mei bit her lips in guilt. She had forgotten to eat. Since morning she has been drinking coffee.

    "Yeah,, I drank the medicine this morning." Yan Mei replied.

    "What about food? Have you had lunch?" Lei Zhao asked.

    "No-"

    "Yan Mei-" Lei Zhao cut her off sternly.

    "You should remember to eat okay? Your health is more important." Lei Zhao sighed.

    "Alright, I will eatter." Yan Mei mumbled.

    "Make sure to send me a picture that you''re eating."

    Yan Mei rubbed the back of her neck, "Okay, I will. So, have you reached the hotel?"

    "No, I''m now heading to the hotel." Lei Zhao said as he gazed through the windows.

    "Make sure no crazy drunk womanes into your room to seduce you with hoping of sleeping with a CEO." Yan Mei teased.

    "Of course, I won''t." Lei Zhao replied as he chuckled.

    "That''s good."

    Lei Zhao smiled, "Don''t miss me too much okay?"

    Yan Mei huffed, "Hump! Who would miss you? I will go to a strip if I''m bored. I have always wanted to go to a strip club. Maybe it''s time to go there." Yan Mei said with mischievousness in her tone as she yed with the pen in her hands.

    "You dare?" Lei Zhao questioned as heughed.

    "I will have to massacre all the people in the stirp club then."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes, "Rx I was just joking."

    "Wifey, if you want me to perform a strip dance for you. All you have to do is ask." Lei Zhao teasely.

    Suddenly a scene of Lei Zhao sexily dancing and striping his clothes shed through her mind. Yan Mei blushed and shook off her thoughts.

    "Hmm. I wouldn''t mind though." Yan Mei retorted.

    Lei Zhao chortle, "Wifey, you''re bing naughty."

    "I-"

    Yan Mei was about to reply but the sound of someone knocking on her office door interrupted her.

    Su Bei came in and reminded her that a business partner was waiting for her. Yan Mei had scheduled their meeting today.

    She gave a thumbs up that is sheing.

    "Lei Zhao, I have to go. I will call youter."

    "Alright, don''t overwork and remember to eat." Lei Zhao said sternly.

    "Alright bye. I love you."

    "I love you more."

 Chapter 116 Ice Cream

    <h4>Chapter 116 Ice Cream</h4>

    Author''s Quote: Out of all the people my heart could have chosen. It decided on a girl who didn''t have enough room to love someone like me.

    -Unknown.

    Ying Sheng brows furrowed together as she stared at her phone. It has been a few days since she has heard from Liam. Every morning he would call or send a message asking how she was, but the messages has stoppeding. Her calls weren''t going through and he hasn''t called her too. Ying Sheng couldn''t help but worry. Ying Sheng dialed his number, but it went straight to voice mail.

    "Hey, this is Liam. Leave a message."

    Ying Sheng cleared her throat, "Hey Liam, it''s me...I- I hope you''re good. Just call me, or I would spank you when I see you!"

    Ying Sheng bellowed then hung up. She threw her phone on the bed and ran a frustrated hand through her hair. She doesn''t know why but she was feeling restless from not hearing from him.

    "When did he be so important to her that I''m restless from not hearing him?" Ying Sheng mumbled as she bit her lips. She paced back and forth before deciding to pay him a visit. After all they are friends. It''s normal to check on each other. With such a thought. Ying Sheng decided to pay him visit.

    Twenty minutester, Ying Sheng pulled into the driveway of Liam''s apartment. She sighed in relief when she saw his car was parked.

    "He wouldn''t be expecting me." Ying Sheng said to herself as she smiled thinking about his reaction when he sees her.

    Ying Sheng got down from her car and made her way over to the door. She rang the doorbell. She tapped her feet impatiently as she waited. She rang the doorbell for a while before the door was pulled open.

    Ying Sheng narrowed her eyes as she scrutinized Liam in front of her. He looked awful. Ying Sheng never thought she would see Liam in such a disheveled state. His usual gelled hair was tousled into a mess. His skin was pale and pallid.

    They were ck circles under his eyes which shows the rough night he hadst night. To make matters worse, he reeked of alcohol.

    Ying Sheng wrinkled her nose. Liam blinked and stretched his hands to touch Ying Sheng''s cheeks as he studied her trying to believe she was real and not a fragment of his illusion from the hangover he was having.

    Lucas his brother had taken him to clubst night to help him get over Ying Sheng he had said. Liam had lost count of alcohol he had consumedst night. All he remembered was the burning taste of the alcohol in his throat as he drowned himself in the liquor.

    Ever since he saw Ying Sheng in Han Xi''s arms, he had totally lost it. Liam has no idea how he was able to drive from that ce. Since then he has be an empty shell. Liam has no idea about what he was doing most of the time. He would go to work sit in a daze thinking about Ying Sheng ande back home.

    He had even ignored iing calls for the past few weeks. Liam had woken up to the sound of the door bell ringing. He was expecting it to be his brother but instead it was the person he wanted to see at the same time didn''t want to see. Liam had no idea when he had fallen this deep for a woman destined not to be his.

    "Liam? Are you okay? Why are you looking like someone who just survived an apocalypse?" Ying Sheng asked squinting her eyes.

    Ying Sheng''s voice snapped him from whatever trance he was in. With the speed of lightning, he removed his hands from her cheeks as if he has been burnt. He ran a hand through his disheveled hair and cleared his throat, looking faintly embarrassed.

    Ying Sheng narrowed her eyes but said nothing.

    "Y_Ying Sheng. What-are you doing here?" Liam inquired as he scratched the back of his head awkwardly. He really didn''t want her to see him looking like this. The hangover was finally getting to him as he felt the beginning of headache creeping along the base of his neck.

    "I wasn''t hearing from you so I came to check up on you." Ying Sheng exined, shrugging her shoulders.

    "But it seems you''re alive and even having fun!" Ying Sheng said sarcastically.

    Liam averted his gaze and kept quiet. A weird silence fell between them.

    "I can''t believe I was worried for nothing." Ying Sheng said under her breath.

    Liam widened his eyes when he heard her.

    "You-you were worried about me?" He queried as he looked up at her. He felt his heart fluttered when he heard her. It seems she cares about him. That''s good, right?

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes, "I''m going, seeing that you''re still alive. Also, go take a shower, you stink." Ying Sheng said and started walking towards her car.

    Liam flushed and quickly grabbed her hands. Ying Sheng stopped in her tracks and looked up at him.

    "Wait-don''t ..go. Stay?" Liam pleaded as he gazed into her eyes.

    Seeing the expectant look in his eyes, Ying Sheng nodded.

    "Alright, but on one condition." Liam''s brows shot up when he heard her.

    "What?" Liam arched his brows, and he felt a bad premonition.

    A mischievous smile spilled form Ying Sheng''s lips.

    "You have to tell me why you look like a zombie." Liam stiffened, and he blinked.

    Sighing he agreed. "Alright."

    Ying Sheng beamed and followed him inside.

    "Make yourselffortable and feel like home. I will go take a shower." Liam hurriedly uttered as he rushed to the bedroom. Before Ying Sheng could react, Liam was gone.

    Ying Sheng heaved a sigh. She changed into the home slippers at the entrance. Looking at the oversize slippers on her feet, a smile formed on Ying Sheng''s lips.

    Looking at the disheveled state of Liam, Ying Sheng decided to help prepare him tea to help him get over his hangover.

    Ying Sheng intruded in his kitchen and opened his fridge. Her jaw nearly dropped from all the foods in the fridge. This is the first time she has seen such a pack fridge in a guy''s home. There were all kinds of food there.

    Few minutester, Liam appeared. He was in a sweatpants and white shirt, making him look like a teenager.

    "What are you doing?" He asked Ying Sheng, who was sitting on the counter.

    "Oh my! This chocte fudge cake is soo good, especially with vani ice cream." Ying Sheng moaned in delight.

    Liam sighed. "You really like your ice cream don''t you." Liammented.

    "Of course. Ice cream is life."

    Liam narrowed his eyes when he saw the weird tea on the counter.

    "What is this?" He wrinkled his nose as he picked up the cup.

    "That is for you. It would help with the hangover." Ying Sheng replied as she scooped an ice cream in her mouth.

    "For me? Is this even drinkable?" Liam scrunched his face.

    Ying Shengughed, "It works like magic. Trust me. Go on drink."

    Taking a deep breath, he gulped down the weird tea.

    The bitterness spread on his tongue, "What is this?!"

    Liam squealed as he quickly took water from the fridge. Ying Sheng held her stomach as she bust out intoughter.

    "Rx, you will live."

    "You-"

    Liam''s stomach growled, cutting him off. He flushed and scratched his hair.

    "Have you eaten breakfast?" Liam asked Ying Sheng as he removed food from the fridge.

    ''Yes. Where from all these foods in your fridge?" Ying Sheng questioned.

    "My mom, she prepared it and sent them over." Liam said with a soft smile.

    Thinking about his mother, he realized he hadn''t call her and his phone was in voice mail. His mother will surely scold him if he calls her. Thinking about this, Liam sighed.

    "Your mother must really love you to personally cook for you." Ying Sheng said with a hint of jealousy in her voice.

    Liam noticed her sour tone and tried to change the topic.

    "So how is school?" Liam asked as he ced a bowl of rice in the microwave.

    "Ah, good I guess." Ying Sheng said nonchntly.

    "So, why weren''t you picking up your calls and I didn''t hear from you too." Ying Sheng paused.

    "I-thought you didn''t want to be friends anymore, so you were intentionally avoiding me." Ying Sheng blurt out her fears these past few days. Her voice thick with emotions.

    Liam froze and looked up at her. She was ying with her spoon with loneliness surrounding her.

    Suddenly Liam remembered the night he hit her with his car. Liam knew her mental health was pretty messed up and she was dealing with her own issues.

    "Ah, sorry. I- of course I still want you as a friend." Liam blurted.

    ''Even though I can''t have you as my own.'' Liam added inwardly.

 Chapter 117 Steal the girl

    <h4>Chapter 117 Steal the girl</h4>

    Ying Sheng smiled when he heard him, "So why weren''t you picking up my calls?" She raised her brows as she asked.

    Liam faked a cough and removed the food from the microwave. He picked a spoon and came to sit beside her on the counter.

    "Do you really want to know?" Liam asked as he stared at her. Ying Sheng nodded.

    "Of course, I do." She rested her chin in her palm as she looked at him, waiting for him to speak. Looking at the ufortable look on his face, Ying Sheng''s right brows shot up.

    "Wait, since you were drunk and looked like a zombie. Did a girl break your heart?" Ying Sheng asked teasingly.

    Liam flushed and bit his lips. He nodded, "No-Yes... Well---something¡­ like that."

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes in surprise.

    "Really? Oh, my! Did she reject you or what? Because as far as I know, you''re single."

    Liam yed with his food and his mood dampened thinking about what he saw.

    "Not really. I was going to ask her out, but I never got the chance. When I got to the ce, she was already in another man''s arms." Liam mumbled.

    "Huh? So, you are sad because you saw her hugging another dude?"

    Liam nodded.

    Ying Sheng chuckled, "Do you know who the guy is?" Ying Sheng inquired as a gleam of deviltry passed through her eyes.

    "When I asked her, she said he was a friend." Liam stared at his food in a daze as he replied.

    "So¡­ what''s your problem?"

    Liam arched his brows when he heard her, "I-I..." he trailed off awkwardly.

    Ying Sheng sighed, "Is she married to the guy?"

    Liam shook his head, "No."

    "Is she pregnant for the guy?" Ying Sheng probed further.

    Liam''s eyes subconsciously fell on Ying Sheng''s stomach.

    "No, I don''t think so." He replied.

    "Are they engaged?" Liam''s frowned at her questions.

    "Is there something you want to say?"

    Ying Sheng grinned and nodded, "since you like her why should you lock yourself at home and give up?" She taunted as she took a bit of her cake.

    "Ah, what do you want to say?" Liam asked.

    Ying Sheng chortle, "Simple. Are you going to watch your first love slip away without a fight?"

    Liam turned to look at her and saw her eyes gleaming.

    "Erm...No. You''re right. Since she is my first love, I would fight for her!"

    Liam said as he gazed into her eyes.

    "Good!" Ying Sheng beamed.

    "Remember, if you want something and it''s worth it, fight for it." Ying Sheng mumbled as a trace of sadness passed through her eyes.

    Liam nodded, "I think I would hate myself f I let her go."

    Ying Sheng chuckled, "Yeah, steal the girl from the guy. Who knows, you might be doing the girl a favor?"

    Liam stared at her for a moment, ''What if I told you you''re the girl? Would I have a chance?''

    Liam asked himself.

    "What?" Ying Sheng asked when she felt his eyes on her.

    Liam blushed and cleared his throat.

    "Ah, nothing. It just..I...I have never done this before. I feel like she wouldn''t like a nerd like me."

    Ying Sheng scrunched her face, "A nerd like you?"

    Liam nodded, "All girls like bad boys. Do you think she would ept me?"

    Liam asked as he looked at her waiting for her response. Liam knew her answer would determine his next action. Whether he would fight for her or let her go.

    "Cutie, there is nothing like a good boy. Deep down I know you can be bad as the bad boy women likes. All you have to do is unleash your inner bad boy." Ying Sheng said and threw him a subtle wink.

    Liam turned crimson red and averted his gaze.

    "Then¡­ how -do I -chase -her though?" Liam stuttered.

    "What do you know about her? Do you know what she likes? What she dislikes? Her hobbies" Ying Sheng questioned.

    "I think we should start from there." Ying Sheng continued.

    Liam''s brows knitted together. He realized he didn''t know much about Ying Sheng. All he knows is that she likes ice cream.

    A soft smile spilled from his lips thinking about how her eyes would light up when she sees an ice cream. Ying Sheng narrowed her eyes when she saw the smile on his lips.

    "Are you thinking about her?" she nudged her with her elbow as she asked.

    The tip of Liam''s ears turned red, and he smiled shyly nodding.

    Even though Ying Sheng was smiling, she felt a little ufortable in her chest, but she ignored it.

    "So...who is the lucky girl?" Ying Sheng inquired suddenly.

    Liam froze for a second before blurting out, "You."

    Ying Sheng smile melted and congealed into horror.

    "Me?" She asked turning to look at him.

    Liam chuckled and tried to hide the emotions brewing in his eyes.

    "You should have seen the horrid look on your face."

    Ying Sheng red at him, "Ha-ha, very funny."

    She rolled her eyes and tried to hide her erratic heartbeat. For a moment she thought he was talking about her.

    ''So, if it was really you, what would you have said?'' she asked herself.

    Ying Sheng knew she couldn''t fall for anyone because her heart belongs to another and her friendship with Liam was something that she didn''t want to risk. He has been her happy pill these days that has kept her going.

    An awkward silence fell between them as both of them stared at their food in a daze. They were both deep in thoughts.

    Liam stole a nce at Ying Sheng.

    ''Goddamit Liam! What was that about?'' Liam scolded himself. Looking at the horrid look on her face. Liam knew that he had to take his time and slowly crawl into her heart. He was not in a hurry. What she said is true, he would regret if he doesn''t fight for her. She was worth fighting for.

    ----------

    After they finished eating, Liam cleaned the bowls and Ying Sheng went to the living room to wait for him. Her eyes lit up the moment she saw the game console.

    When Liam came back, he saw Ying Sheng engrossed in thetest game he had released.

    "Do you know how to y this game?" He asked with a trace of surprise in his voice.

    Ying Sheng quickly nced at him when she heard him, "Yeah, this game is really cool! I really want to meet the genius who designed it." Ying Sheng said as her brows furrows in concentration.

    "The world of this game is super captivating, and the dungeons and item designs are fantastic!"

    Liam felt his heart flutter when he heard her. Even though the critics had praised his game, he really didn''t pay attention to it. Hearing Ying Sheng praised his hard work made his heart swelled with joy.

    "Really?" He asked to confirm if she really liked the game.

    "Of course. The art-style, the music, the weapons, and enemies dungeons; everything came together to create an immense, well-ying game. I can''t get enough of this game, and every minute it''s worth it."

    Ying Sheng said.

    Liam smiled and sat beside her. He watched her as she raised her rifle and shot the enemy. An evil smirk curved on her lips.

    Suddenly bullets started flying toward her in the next second. She dodged fluidly.

    Her skills amazed Liam. It seems she was great at this.

    "Do you want to y?" Ying Sheng asked after she finished ying.

    Liam nodded, "Alright. "

    Even though these games were nothing to Liam, he could literally win with his eyes closed. He acted like he wasn''t an expert.

    Liam would nce at Ying Sheng and realized her brows were bumped into seriousness as she fought the enemies. She seems to be in her world. Liam''s lips twisted into a smile. She looked cute.

    He was so engrossed in staring at her that an enemy shot him.

    Ying Sheng red at him.

    "You..I though you know how to y. Howe you were so easily shot!"

    Ying Sheng felt like dying. They have reached level 4, and they got killed.

    Liam scratched his nose andughed awkwardly, "I''m sorry."

    Ying Sheng huffed.

    "Let''s y again?" Liam suggested.

    Since they both had nothing to do, they yed until noon.

    Ying Sheng stretched after they took a break. Suddenly her phone rang.

    She looked at the unfamiliar number and narrowed her eyes.

    "Miss. Ying." A woman greeted politely the moment; Ying Sheng picked up the call.

    "Yes, how may I help you?" Ying Sheng narrowed her eyes.

    "I''m calling from Gem''s Galorepany. I want to know if you''re avable or interested to be the model for our new collection."

    "Me? Are you sure?" Ying Sheng asked with uncertainty.

    "Yes, if you cane to ourpany tomorrow, we would discuss this further."

    "Alright." Ying Sheng said as she hung up the call.

    She stared in her phone in a daze for a while before erupting into happiness.

    "Oh my! I just got invited by the leading jewelrypany to be a model for their new collection."

    Liam looked at the happiness in her eyes and smiled, "Congrattions."

    Ying Sheng pouted, "I just remembered my cousin''s wife owns thatpany. I wonder why she chose me though."

    Ying Sheng mumbled. She didn''t expect Yan Mei to give her this job just after meeting her once.

    "Oh, then you''ve to work hard. I''m sure she believes in you, that''s why she chose you."

    Liammented, seeing the confusion on her face.

    "Hmm. Let''s go and eat, I''m hungry." Ying Sheng said.

 Chapter 118 Dream about me

    <h4>Chapter 118 Dream about me</h4>

    Author''s note: Hy guys I''m so sorry about earlier. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Lots of love! Happy weekend.

    "Okay, let''s go and eat, or else your husband would skin me alive!" Su Bei said the moment the client left Yan Mei''s office.

    Su Bei looked at her friend''s tired eyes and she couldn''t help but feel distressed. Yan Mei chuckled when she heard Su Bei.

    "Yeah, now that you have reminded me. I need to send him a picture that I''m eating." Yan Mei said with a helpless smile.

    "Oh, so hubby is worried about you, huh?" Su Bei said teasingly.

    Yan Mei shrugged, "Would you like to go to that new western restaurant across the streets? I heard their food is really good."

    Yan Mei knew her friend was a big foodie like her.

    "Really?" Su Bei''s eyes sparkled. She has always wanted to visit that restaurant that everyone was talking about, but she knew better. Even though her pay was very good, she had spent half of it on her mother''s drugs. So, she can''t afford to eat at that restaurant.

    "Yeah." Yan Mei replied curtly.

    Su Bei squealed excitedly, "Let''s go then."

    Yan Mei nodded and picked her purse, leaving the office with Su Bei trailing behind her.

    As soon as they reached the restaurant, a host greeted them politely.

    Yan Mei nodded, and Su Bei smiled softly at the host.

    "Table for two". Su Bei said as she nced around the restaurant.

    The waiter nodded and led them to a table at the corner that overlooked the streets from the floor to ceiling window.

    "A waiter wille and take your orders soon. Please wait." The host said with a smile and left.

    "Hello, I''m Evan. Your waiter. Here is the menu and wee to Tulip restaurant."

    The waiter said and shed Su Bei a smile, showing his perfect white teeth. Yan Mei narrowed her eyes as a trace of amusement shed through them.

    "Can I get you something?" He asked with his gaze still on Su Bei.

    "A ss of apple juice would be fine." Yan Mei said tly.

    "Same here." Su Bei said smiling at him.

    "Alright, I would be back with your drinks." The waiter''s lips twisted into a smile and left.

    Soon he came back to their table with two sses of apple juice.

    "Here are your drinks." He said as he ced one in front of Su Bei and the other in front of Yan Mei.

    "Thank you." Su Bei said.

    "It''s a pleasure to serve two beautiful women. So, what would you be having?" Evan asked.

    Yan Mei nced at the menu and selected the most expensive meal on the menu.

    "I will get the same." Su Bei said smiling as she handed back the menu.

    "Alright," Evan said as he took the menu and left to help the other table.

    "It seems you have found yourself a charmer." Yan Meimented as she made a sip on her juice.

    "Huh?" Su Bei asked with a confusion frowned on her face.

    "The waiter didn''t you see he was flirting with you?" Yan Mei asked as she stared at her friend.

    "He was?"

    Yan Mei heaved a sigh when she heard her friend. No wonder she was still single at this age.

    "Yes, he was. I''m no longer surprised that you''re still single."

    Su Bei chuckled and nced at the waiter who was taking another table''s order.

    "He is cute but not my type." Su Bei said as she shrugged her shoulders.

    "Oh, so who is your type?" Yan Mei asked as her lips curved into a slight smile.

    "Leng-" Su Bei blurted out, but she stopped midway when she realized what she has said.

    Yan Mei raised her brows, "So you like him?" Yan Mei asked eagerly, eyeing her closely.

    Su Bei bit her lips and reluctantly nodded her head. She looked at Yan Mei and found a mischievous smile on her lips.

    "You know, he is single, right?" Yan Mei asked as she shook her head helplessly.

    Su Bei''s eyes lit up, "Really?" She inquired with an unknown emotion in her eyes. Yan Mei couldn''t pinpoint what she saw.

    "Yes, if you want, I can set you guys up."

    Su Bei fidgeted but shook her head.

    "I think he wouldn''t like a girl like me."

    Yan Mei frowned, "Why are you saying that?"

    Su Bei shrugged. Yan Mei looked at her friend but said nothing. Her phone shook in her purse when she removed it. She saw a message from Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao: Wifey, don''t tell me you forgot to eat lunch.

    Yan Mei sighed and quickly replied.

    Yan Mei: No, I''m currently at a restaurant with Su Bei.

    Lei Zhao: Oh, alright, enjoy your meal. I will call you at night.

    A soft smile tugged at Yan Mei''s lips as she replied.

    Yan Mei: Hmm.

    "So, who are you chatting with? You look like a teenager chatting with her crush." Su Beimented as she took a sip of her drink.

    "Oh, it''s Lei Zhao. He is asking if I had eaten."

    Su Bei rolled her eyes, "I should have known looking at the love-struck look on your face."

    Yan Mei smiled softly.

    "I think that guy is madly in love with you, Yan Mei!" Su Bei remarked as she sipped her drink.

    Yan Mei nodded.

    "Yeah." Yan Mei uttered firmly.

    Su Bei chuckled, "Look at you, I thought you would never fall in love! I''m happy for you."

    Su Bei said with a smile.

    "Cheers to more happiness." She said as she lifted her ss to Yan Mei.

    "Cheers." Yan Mei replied with a smile as she lifted her ss to Su Bei before taking a sip

    Twenty minutester, the waiter brought their food. This time Su Bei ignored him since she didn''t want to give the poor guy lost hope.

    A trace of loss passed through the waiter''s eyes, but he left, saying nothing.

    Su Bei stared at the mouth-watering food and took a picture before she eating. Yan Mei shook her head helplessly and waited for Su Bei to snap the food. She also took a picture and sent it to Lei Zhao, but he didn''t reply. Maybe he was busy.

    --------

    Once Yan Mei got home, she took a shower and stayed in the living room to pass the time. Her hair was still wet, and she was only wearing a bathrobe. Shezily swirled the winess in her hand and pick the remote control, turning the television on. She flicked on the channels, but nothing interested her. She massaged her temple as she sat in a daze.

    Suddenly her phone rang, snapping her out of her stupor.

    "Wifey." Lei Zhao''s husky voice sounded the moment she picked up the call which made her miss him more.

    "Hmm." She replied softly.

    Lei Zhao frowned when he heard her, "Are you okay?" he asked with concernced in his voice.

    "Yes, I-I just miss you." Sheined bitterly.

    "I took a bath alone and there is no one to help me dry my hair."

    Lei Zhao chuckled huskily, "So you miss me because I''m not there to help you dry your hair?"

    "It''s part of the reasons why I miss you." Yan Mei murmured, puffing her cheeks slightly.

    "Oh, I see. How was work?"

    Yan Mei smiled, "Good. What are you doing right now?" She inquired.

    "I''m in bed." Lei Zhao replied.

    Yan Mei''s thoughts went off when she heard him, she wished she there, lying on his chest while listening to his heartbeat.

    "Oh, thinking about me? Yan Mei asked as she took a sip of her wine to calm her pounding heart.

    "Yeah. I was there to help you bath." He said with a hint of humor in his voice.

    Yan Mei couldn''t but blush. Clearing her throat, she changed the subject.

    "I want to stay with my grandfather before youe back." Yan Mei mumbled.

    "Oh okay. That''s good. Then I don''t have to worry about you staying alone at the house."

    "Hmm." A silence urred as they listened to each other''s breath on the phone.

    "Sleep Wifey, because if I was there you wouldn''t be sleeping." Lei Zhao said as he chuckled lightly.

    "Rogue!" Yan Mei snapped at him.

    Lei Zhao chortle.

    "Sleep Wifey, you would go to work tomorrow morning." Lei Zhao coaxed her.

    "Hmm." She whispered, but Lei Zhao still heard her breathing on the other side of the phone.

    "Hang up the phone first." Lei Zhao said helplessly.

    "No, you do." She retorted.

    Another silence urred without none of them saying anything or nning to hung up the call.

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh, "Goodnight Wifey. I''m hanging up or we will be on the phone the whole night."

    "Hmm." Yan Mei replied.

    "Dream about me." Lei Zhao said teasingly.

    "You too. Come back soon." She breathed.

    "I will." Lei Zhao uttered and finally hang up the call.

    Yan Mei stared at the phone in a daze before sighing. She ced the wine on the table and walked to the bedroom to dry her hair. She knew Lei Zhao would get worried if she catches a cold.

 Chapter 119 A motherâ€™s instincts

    <h4>Chapter 119 A mother''s instincts</h4>

    "Thank you, Mr. Andre. I hope your daughter gets well soon." Lei Zhao said in fluent English as he shook Mr. Andre''s hands. He has been working hard on this business now that everything is settled, Lei Zhao felt like a weight has been lifted from his chest.

    "My pleasure. Sorry for the inconvenience." Mr. Andre apologized with a smile on his face.

    "No, family first then business. I would have done the same thing if I was in your shoes." Lei Zhao beckoned at Ye Xing who was standing at the corner.

    "I brought a few tonics and supplements for your daughter. I wish her good health." Ye Xing gave the package to Mr. Andre''s secretary.

    "Thank you, Mr. Lei."

    Lei Zhao nodded, "I will leave now. I hope we can do business again."

    Mr. Andreughed, "Likewise. I hope you will invite me when you opened your mall."

    "Alright." Lei Zhao said and gave the contract to Ye Xing.

    "Mr. Lei, wait." Mr. Andre called out Lei Zhao when he reached the door.

    Lei Zhao stopped in his tracks and turned to look at Mr. Andre.

    "Is there any problem?" Lei Zhao inquired squinting his eyes.

    Mr. Andre stiffened for a moment before shaking his head.

    "No, have a safe flight."

    Lei Zhao nodded, "Thank you."

    Mr. Andre looked at Lei Zhao''s back and a trace of light shed through his eyes.

    He heaved a sigh and raked his fingers through his hair. His fingers felt mmy and he slumped on the cushion with a defeated look on his face.

    A shiver ran along his spine thinking about what he has done. He didn''t want to but as a father, he had to protect his daughter. He hurriedly removed his phone from his pocket and sent a message to a series of numbers.

    Mr. Andre: Done.

    Just one word, but it contained the fate of two people. He tapped his feet and loosened his tie waiting for a reply but it never came.

    Lei Zhao sat in the car and loosened his tie. It was already four days since he came here. No one knows how much he misses his wife. Even though they spoke every chance they get he felt it wasn''t enough. Lei Zhao couldn''t wait to get home, hug her, inhale her sweet scent, and nt kisses all over her face.

    Lei Zhao lips curved into a smile just thinking about seeing Yan Mei in a few hours. Ye Xing looked at his boss smiling from the rear mirror and raised his brows.

    "Eyes on the road, Ye Xing. I need to get back to my wife in one piece." Lei Zhao joked.

    Ye Xing rolled his eyes, ''Boss there is no need to show off in front of me.'' Ying Xing said inwardly.

    "Yes, Boss."

    Silence fell in the car, Lei Zhao leaned against the seat. Suddenly he started sweating, a sharp pain hit his stomach, and felt he dizzy.

    "Ye-"

    Lei Zhao couldn''t call out Ye Xing because a truck which bore on them, just when it looked like it would pass by harmlessly veered violently into their side. The impact spanned their car around. ss sprayed in the interior. Ye Xing struggled with the wheel, knuckles bulging, and teeth-gritting. He steered the car to the right and managed to break free from the truck.

    "Dammit!" Ye Xing cursed.

    "Boss, are you okay?" Ye Xing said, but Lei Zhao didn''t respond. Ye Xing''s heart hammered in his chest and he turned to look at Lei Zhao.

    He saw Lei Zhao was sweating profusely, his face was pale and his lips were turning blue.

    "Poison!" Ye Xing eximed. He quickly picked up his phone to call for help. Unfortunately, he didn''t get the chance to make the call.

    Ye Xing widened his eyes when he heard a car horn. He looked up and saw a truck approaching them. He abruptly mmed on the brakes, but it didn''t work. A rush of adrenaline passed through Ye Xing as he steered the steering wheel to avoid the truck, but in a blink of the eye, the car rammed into the passenger''s side.

    The car rolled over several times, breaking the sses and inting the safety bag. A moment of silence passed by after the impact.

    Thick smoke filled the car. Ye Xing grappled the airbag and managed to push it one side. He struggled with the door before in his shock state he realized the engine has caught fire.

    Ye Xing panicked as the car creaked and tilted. He tried to push the door, but it didn''t bulge. Ye Xing scrambled to the other side, but his seatbelt prevented him. He grunted as he searched for thetch of his seatbelt. His lungs contracted as he coughed from the smoke inhtion. He fumbled with his seatbelt, Ye Xing knew he had to hurry to get Lei Zhao out of the car. A rush of hot air and fire spread to the roof of the car.

    Fortunately, the seatbelt came undone. Ye Xing kicked himself out of the driver''s seat, coughing violently. He felt weak and nauseous, but he knew he couldn''t give up. Lei Zhao was waiting for him. He would rather die than let anything happen to Lei Zhao. With a supreme effort, he opened the passenger''s seat.

    "Boss, Boss." He called out frantically.

    Lei Zhao couldn''t speak or move his body. His bones, muscles, joints and organs felt like they were being crumbled and smashed inside a tiny box.

    He knew his body better than anyone. Lei Zhao knew someone had poisoned him. When or How? He was not in the mood to think about that now.

    He wanted to live. His wife was waiting for him. Lei Zhao had promised her that he woulde back safely. Suddenly small droplets of fire started to fall on the roof of the car, burning Lei Zhao''s back and hands. The frantic cries of Ye Xing fell in his ears.

    Ye Xing dragged Lei Zhao out of the car, coughing. Terror thundered on Ye Xing. He knew he had to hurry to get Lei Zhao out of there. If the fuel tank catches fire, this would kill both of them. Struggling, he managed to get Lei Zhao five yards from the car before the car erupted into mes.

    Lei Zhao''s eyes fluttered, and at that moment images shed across Lei Zhao''s eyes. Images of his family, brother, andst clips of his wife.

    He saw Yan Mei''s smiling at him. Lei Zhao saw her mouth moving slightly, uttering, "I love you."

    That''s thest thing Lei Zhao remembers before he floated intoplete and utter darkness.

    Ye Xing felt paralyzed as he stared at Lei Zhao''s body. He struggled to break free from whatever trance he was in but he couldn''t. He whimpered painfully as he stared at Lei Zhao. Lei Zhao was covered in blood. His beautiful eyes were closed with bruised purple. A thin, red liquid oozed from his mouth. Judging from the smokeing from his suit, Ye Xing knew his back was severely burnt. Then suddenly everything went ck.

    ---------

    Lei Xiao Tong dialed Yan Mei''s number to check on her. She had been busy these past few days that she had not gotten time to check up on her.

    Lei Xiao Tong called Lei Zhao earlier but he didn''t pick up so she called Yan Mei instead.

    After a couple of rings, Yan Mei picked up, "Yan Mei speaking."

    "XiaoMei, it''s me."

    "Mom! How are you?" Yan Mei asked as leaned against the chair."

    "I''m good! How are you? Why haven''t I heard you? I was worried sick about you?!" Lei Xiao Tongined bitterly.

    "Sorry, Mom. I have been busy." Yan Mei chuckled.

    "Is Lei Zhao with you? I called him but he didn''t pick his phone." Lei Xiao Tong heaved a sigh, asking.

    "Mom, Lei Zhao is on a business trip." Yan Mei said softly.

    "Oh okay, he must be busy then. When you get time let''s have lunch." Lei Xiao Tong suggested.

    "Alright. Mom."

    "So, are you staying alone by yourself in the big house?" Lei Xiao Tong asked with a frown on her face.

    "No, Mom. I''m staying with my grandfather until hees back." Yan Mei mumbled.

    "Okay, you must be busy. I would leave you. I will call you again soon. Take care!"

    "Bye mom. I will." Then the line went off.

    Lei Xiao Tong put her phone down and made her way to the kitchen. Her stomach was protesting for food now. She removed food from the fridge and walked to the microwave to heat it while humming a soft melody.

    She sat on the counter with her chin in her palms. She fidgeted, feeling a little restless. Lei Xiao Tong brows knitted together.

    Ignoring the dread gnawing inside her, she took a te and walked towards the microwave. Just as she was a few steps away the te slipped from her hands and hit on the ground.

    The deafening sound echoed in the quiet kitchen. Lei Xiao Tong''s face turned ashen as she clutched her heart. She felt like someone was inserting a thousand needles in her heart. Her breathing quickened and her lips felt dry.

    Suddenly a feeling of impending doom surrounded her. Lei Xiao Tong didn''t know why, call it a mother''s instinct, but she blurted out Lei Zhao''s name.

    "Lei Zhao!" She bellowed, her voice full of fear and agony.

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 Chapter 120 He is dead.

    <h4>Chapter 120 He is dead.</h4>

    2 days: 10 minutes: 40secs after Lei Zhao''s ident.

    "Look who decided to finallye home." Grandpa Yan announced when Yan Mei entered the living room.

    "Grandpa." Yan Mei said as she approached him and gave him a hug. Yan Mei loved her grandfather very much, he was the closet thing she has to her mother.

    "Grandpa, I miss you." Yan Mei chuckled as she nted a kiss on the old man''s cheeks. Grandpa Yan snorted, "You shouldn''t overwork Yan Mei. Look at the time you''reing home." Grandpa Yan frowned as he reprimanded her.

    Yan Mei scratched her nose, "Sorry, Grandpa. I had to take care of an emergency."

    Grandpa Yan shook his head helplessly and sighed, "Yan Mei, you''re now married. You can''t workte like you used to. As a woman, you have toe home early."

    Yan Mei smiled and nodded, "I know grandpa. Fortunately, Lei Zhao is very understanding."

    Yan Mei''s eyes sparkled with affection as she said. The light in her eyes dimmed a little as a frown contorted her face. Lei Zhao was supposed toe home two days ago, but he didn''t and she has gotten no call from him. ''Maybe something came up?'' Yan Mei asked herself. She couldn''t help but feel restless.

    "Let''s go and eat." Grandpa Yan''s voice snapped her from her thoughts.

    "Alright, grandpa. Let''s go." Yan Mei forced out a smile and helped the old man to the dining table.

    Yan Mei sat across the old man as they ate. They made small talk about Yan Mei''s business and the old man asked a few questions about Lei Zhao, which Yan Mei happily replied.

    After dinner, Yan Mei went to the backyard and took out her phone. She sat on a chair and checked for any messages or missed call, but there was none.

    Yan Mei''s brows furrowed, and she looked at the moon. It was exceptionally beautiful tonight, but Yan Mei was in no mood to appreciate it. Yan Mei heaved a sigh, ''Was everything okay? Did he encounter an enemy that he has to lie low for a few days?'' Different thoughts were running in Yan Mei''s mind, but she had no answers.

    "A penny for your thoughts?" Grandpa Yan said as he took a chair and sat beside Yan Mei.

    "Is it Lei Zhao?" Grandpa Yan asked straightforward.

    Yan Mei turned to look at her grandfather. The moon reflected on his face showing the wrinkles in his forehead and under his eyes.

    "Hmm." Yan Mei said as she looked at the moon in the sky.

    "Do you want to tell me what''s wrong? I thought everything was going well between the two of you. Tell me if I need to beat the crap out of him." Grandpa Yan urged.

    Yan Mei let out a deep breath, "No, he has done nothing. It just I haven''t heard from him for two days now. He was supposed toe home thest two days, but he didn''t and I haven''t heard from him. When I call him, it says it cannot be reached." Yan Mei finally said.

    "Grandpa, do you think something happened to him?" Yan Mei heaved a worried sigh as she asked.

    Grandpa Yan brows knitted together, "We can''t be too sure. If you''re worried about him. I can ask someone to check his whereabouts tomorrow,"

    Yan Mei nodded, "I will visit my mother-inw tomorrow, maybe she has news."

    Grandpa Yan smiled, "My, my you have really fallen in love!" he eximed and he chuckled.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes, "It''s normal."

    Grandpa Yan chuckled, "I''m happy that you have fallen in love. You deserve to be happy, XiaoMei." Grandpa Yan said as he looked at Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei smiled back at him, "Grandpa, how did you meet grandma." Yan Mei asked suddenly.

    She wanted to know the love story of her grandparents.

    A nostalgic look shed through Grandpa Yan''s eyes, and his whole features softened.

    "I met your grandmother in Paris. She had run away from her wedding and was hiding there. The moment Iid eyes on her at a coffee shop, I felt an instant pull. I was a Casanova back then, with my good looks and charm." Grandpa Yan grinned.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes and chuckled.

    "That moment I felt like she was the only person at the coffee shop. I didn''t acknowledge that it was love at first sight back then. I found out about the hotel she was staying at and faked an encounter one day."

    Yan Mei raised her brows, "Faked an encounter?"

    Grandpa Yan coughed, "Yes. I intentionally bumped into her and got the chance to strike a conversation with her. We became friends from then. I knew I loved her more than a friend, but I was too egotistical to admit it. Until her family found her and forced her to marry the guy, she was originally going to marry."

    Anger contorted Grandpa Yan''s face. He looked at Yan Mei and continued.

    "When I found out, I was beyond angry. I felt like my heart was being ripped out from my chest. My older brother was the one who talked to me and we nned to stop the wedding. That was the best decision I have ever made."

    Grandpa Yan smiled and turned to look at Yan Mei, "You have to hold that boy tight if you really love him."

    "I will, Grandpa." Yan Mei promised as she leaned back in the chair. She looked at her grandfather and saw that he looked happy. Yan Mei knew he was thinking about his dead wife. Yan Mei wanted a life like this. One day when she grows old, she hopes the mere mention of Lei Zhao would bring happiness on her face.

    Before he stood up, he patted Yan Mei''s shoulder. "Don''t stay up too long." He uttered, then left.

    Soon after Grandpa Yan left, Yan Mei stood up and went inside. She needed to sleep. Tomorrow she would visit Lei Xiao Tong.

    ------------------

    Lei Xiao Tong paced back and forth in the living room. After that incident, she called Lei Zhao''s number the whole day, but it didn''t go through. Feeling anxious, she had called her husband and told her what had happened. Mr. Lei knew the hidden background of his wife''s family, so he believed in her instincts. Their son was in trouble and they needed to act fast.

    It''s been two days since they had sent people to go to New York to check what had happened, but they haven''t brought any good news.

    The hotel said that Ye Xing had checked them out, and they were headed to the airport, but they found no surveince of them at the airport. It''s like they never went there. Lei Xiao Tong knew their son was a responsible person if he was going to dy his flight for a few days, he would have called them.

    Mr. Lei had dispatched all his forces to search for Lei Zhao, but they didn''t find any news. He even had to call the rest of Lei Zhao''s friends for help.

    Edward Wu, who is the oldest of the group looked at his friends and raked his fingers through his hair. Everyone was busy on the phone barking orders, clearly agitated.

    A phone ringing sounded, alerting everyone. Everyone''s eyes fell on Edward Wu as he answers the phone. He was the most powerful one with links throughout the world, so if they believe anyone can find Lei Zhao it was him.

    "Boss, I found something." A velvet voice sounded the moment he picked the call.

    "What?" He asked clearly. He wasn''t in the mood to beat around the bush.

    There was deep silence before the man finally spoke, "A car ident urred on the remote area to the airport. I believe is Mr. Lei''s car from the surveinces at the hotel."

    Edward Wu abruptly stood up from his seat. He was the closest to Lei Zhao, and he knew Lei Zhao always takes remote areas to avoid surveinces from his enemies.

    "What did you say?! What happened?!" He bellowed, causing people''s hearts to leap. Edward Wu was the calmest person in their circle no matter what happens he never loses his cool for him to act like this they knew it was bad news.

    "B-boss it''s bad, the car is totally burnt beyond recognition. I had to pay some locals before I found out where they took the car. They said they found no one. They came to find the car burning. Also, I found a watch in the car. -I¡ªI think Mr. Lei ¡­.he ¨Cis dead."

    The air in the room dropped as the phone fell from Edward Wu''s hands. His fingers trembled.

    He staggered and turned to look at the other people in the room. Lei Xiao Tong looked at the pale look on Edward Wu''s face and she shook her head.

    "No-no-no. Don''t tell me-" She shook her head aggressively like a mad person as she whispered. She felt as if she was slowly suffocating.

    "You have found Lei Zhao, right? He is okay. Yes, he is. Nothing would happen to my son." Lei Xiao Tong chanted. She felt like her throat was tightening up. She could feel her stomach turning in fear; fear of losing another child.

    Lei Xiao Tong''s body was trembling in fear, her heart was racing and her mind was spinning. Mr. Lei quickly pulled her wife in his arms

    Jun Mo and Henry Liu exchanged nces and looked at Edward Wu at the same time. The look in Edward Wu''s eyes was something they have never seen before.

    "Edward-"

    "His car was in an ident and erupted into fire." Edward Wu mumbled cutting Jun Mo off.

    "No! NO! Lei Zhao-Lei Zhao-" Lei Xiao Tong couldn''t finish her sentence as her tongue got heavy and her vision blurred. Panic flushed into her body as she felt herself losing control. She could feel her body fell into Mr. Lei''s arms as darkness evaded her mind.

    To be continued.

 Chapter 121 A fatherâ€™s weakness

    <h4>Chapter 121 A father''s weakness</h4>

    Author''s Note: Your body is honest. When you are in physical pain. You cry. But the heart is a liar. It stays quiet even when it''s hurting. Then, when you are asleep, you finally weep and whimper like a dog.

    -It''s okay to not be okay

    "She is fine. She is just in a state of shock. Let her rest." Jun Mo said to Mr. Lei whose face was contorted with panic.

    Mr. Lei absentmindedly nodded as he gazed at the pale face of his wife. Has he really lost another child in the span of two years? Would fate be this cruel to his family? Mr. Lei didn''t want to think about it. He refused to believe that he has lost another child. A child was to bury his parent but for a parent to bury his child that was cruel. Something gnawed at his chest. The misery was not quite settling. He wasn''t ready to ept this fate. Mr. Lei looked like he has aged in the blink of the eye. He sat beside his wife on the bed.

    Jun Mo heaved a sigh and left him alone with his wife. When he came downstairs, he saw Henry Liu standing at the bottom of the stairs waiting for him.

    "How is she?" Henry Liu asked with concern and paned in his tone.

    Jun Mo sighed and nodded, "She is fine." He patted Henry Liu''s shoulders and bypassed him to sit on the sofa. They both turned to look at Edward Wu.

    "Lei Zhao. Do you think- he is¡­." Henry Liu said as fear surged through him and he clenched his fists.

    A depressing silence fell between them. None of them said anything. They were all grieving inside. To them, Lei Zhao was more than a friend. He was a brother to them; the one who always told them everything would be okay. Life was really unfair. They felt like a void has been created and that it would never get filled. No one can rece Lei Zhao in their heart.

    To say they feel empty or lost was an understatement. A huge gaping hole was forming in their hearts.

    Henry Liu, who was the youngest couldn''t ept this. How can Lei Zhao die? A rollercoaster of emotions swarmed through him, threatening to erupt. He couldn''t ept the fact that his friend and brother was gone.

    He balled his fist and smash it at the wall.

    "Fuck, fuck, fuck¡­" He roared as he punched the wall. Blood started pooling on his hand. Henry Liu had no idea how long he had smashed his fist on the wall. He could feel bile rising in his throat, his vision was too blurry for him toprehend that he would damage his knuckles if he didn''t stop. He was refusing to believe that Lei Zhao was gone. He had died without a body.

    Lei Zhao wasn''t dead, he was here with them. Warning him to be careful not to get a girl pregnant. Teasing him that his driving skills suck. Fighting by side. But he was gone. Lei Zhao wasn''t here.

    Aforting hand jolted him out of his mad frenzies. Jun Mo nced at his best friend and sighed.

    "Breaking your hands won''t bring him back." Jun Momented.

    Henry Liu looked at him, "Are we just going to give up? We need to find him. I refuse to believe Lei Zhao died in that fire. Edward-" Henry Liu paused as he turned to look at Edward Wu who was sitting on the couch.

    There was no emotion on his face, but if you look carefully, you would see his hands shaking. Henry Liu knew Edward Wu was anything but calm at the moment. The calmer he looks the deadlier he is. A sinister smile curved at Edward''s lips.

    With the bloodthirsty look in his eyes, they knew he wouldn''t let go of this. They all knew Lei Zhao was Edward Wu''s younger brother. They pale inparison with how deep their bond is.

    The temperature dropped and the air became gloomy.

    "You have to find him. You need to find him." Henry Liu''s voice was soft and pleading as he stared at Edward Wu. Anyone knew he was seconds from breaking down. Edward Wu looked up at Henry Liu and saw his disheveled state. Tears were staining on his cheeks and his hand was bleeding.

    Edward Wu was the powerful one in the group. He was terrifying; said to be cruel and unjust. If anyone can get revenge or find Lei Zhao it was him. He was a beast who had no limits. They knew he didn''t mind causing a ruckus in New York just to find Lei Zhao.

    Saying nothing Edward Wu took his phone which had creak from the fall and dialed a number.

    "Boss!" The man said respectfully the moment the call was connected.

    "Who did Lei Zhao visit before everything happened?" Edward Wu asked as he tapped his fingers on his thigh.

    "From the previous investigation, he visited Mr. Andre at his house to sign a contract." The man respectfully replied.

    Edward Wu''s lips curved slightly, "Investigate this Mr. Andre. I want everything about him in ten minutes." Edward Wu said and hung up the call.

    "Even if Lei Zhao is dead, I don''t think he died in that car. He was the captain of the special military force. He wouldn''t die easily also, Ye Xing was with him."

    Edward Wu analyzed calmly. He stood up and started pacing back and forth.

    "Lei Zhao has many enemies, but only a few know his real face. Also, he is now married, I don''t think he would go to a foreign country unprotected. So how did he get in a car ident?"

    The curve on Edward Wu''s stretched further. The bloodthirsty in his eyes grew more, and the air became gloomier.

    "How did they know the time to strike at him?" Edward Wu mumbled as anger swirled in his eyes. Then, all of a sudden, he was calm. His eyes still had that sinister glint.

    "You mean-" Jun Mo asked.

    "Yes." Edward Wu interrupted him.

    Henry Liu looked at them with a confused frown on his face.

    "What are you guys talking about?"

    Edward Wu nced at Henry Liu and looked at the information sent by his man on his phone.

    He looked at it and looked up at Jun Mo. Jun Mo saw the madness brewing in Edward''s eyes and he knew he has found something.

    "What is the weak point of a father?" He asked with humorced in his tone.

    "His child." Jun Mo replied.

    Edward Wu nodded.

    "Jun Mo, you would take care of auntie and uncle." Edward Wu said calmly.

    Jun Mo nodded, "Alright."

    "Henry you would handle everything here. Make sure no news leaks about it."

    Henry Liu nodded subconsciously.

    "Make sure his wife, Yan Mei, doesn''t hear about this yet." Edward Wu said sternly.

    "What should I not hear about?" Yan Mei''s voice sounded with rm, making them stiffened.

    They all turned to the entrance of the door and saw her standing there with her brows arched.

    ------------

    Yan Mei looked at her phone, and a worried frown adorned her face. She has been calling Lei Xiao Tong this for morning for hours, but she didn''t pick. At first, Yan Mei thought she was busy, that''s why she wasn''t picking up the call, but after speaking to her grandfather she decided to pay Lei Xiao Tong a visit. She couldn''t help but worry. First Lei Zhao wasn''t picking up his call, now her mother-inw too.

    Was something bad going on? Yan Mei couldn''t help but feel anxious. When she arrived, she saw different luxurious cars parked outside. Yan Mei rang the doorbell, but no one answered. Her heart leaped in her chest. It was odd for no one to answer the door. She couldn''t see any servants around too.

    Because Lei Xiao Tong was afraid to leak the news, she had sent all the servants on a holiday. She couldn''t trust now, and she didn''t want to take risks too. What if the enemy had nted a mole in her house?

    Yan Mei opened the door by herself and walked inside. Her frown deepened when she saw no one around until she heard whispers. The first person she saw when she entered the living room was Jun Mo.

    Yan Mei knew him since he is the doctor who attended to her a few days ago when she got sick.

    She saw two men too. One was telling them something. They all had a serious look on their face.

    Yan Mei heard his baritone. He was telling Jun Mo to take care of Uncle and Auntie.

    ''Did something happened?'' Yan Mei just stood there as she heard the man again telling the other guy to make sure the news doesn''t leak.

    ''What news?'' Yan Mei couldn''t help but feel her heart racing.

    Then she heard the man mention her name.

    "Make sure his wife, Yan Mei, doesn''t hear about this." Edward Wu said sternly.

    "What shouldn''t I hear about?" Yan Mei''s voice sounded with rm, making them stiffened.

    Seeing the surprised look on Jun Mo''s face, Yan Mei knew they were talking about her, but what should she not hear?

    "Sister-inw." Jun Mo said with shock in his voice. They didn''t expect Yan Mei to suddenlye here.

    "Dr. Jun. What shouldn''t I hear?" Yan Mei asked, sweeping her gaze across them.

    Jun Mo cleared his throat and turned to look at Edward Wu for help.

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 Chapter 122 A Wifeâ€™s Misery

    <h4>Chapter 122 A Wife''s Misery</h4>

    Yan Mei sat on the sofa and her icy gaze swept across the three men sitting in front of her. She knew they were hiding something from her; but what?

    Yan Mei looked at unfamiliar men who had introduced themselves earlier.

    The one with dark hair was called Edward Wu. His face was cold and serious, wearing a tailored suit and white shirt underneath. Yan Mei had to admit he was extremely attractive with his cold demeanor, but he couldn''tpare to her Lei Zhao. After all, beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder.

    The other one with blonde hair looked familiar, but Yan Mei doesn''t remember where she has seen him. His sculpted face and tall build made him looked like the supermodels thatdies love.

    Yan Mei saw Edward Wu looking at her with emotions that were difficult to decipher. They both stared at each assessing one another. Both of them were stubborn and didn''t want to show weakness.

    Yan Mei''s lips curved as she gazed at him. He is the first person that she can''t see through.

    ''This man is really interesting.'' Yan Mei thought.

    ''This woman is not simple.'' Edward Wu thought as a sh of light flickered in his eyes.

    Yan Mei broke her gaze and looked at Jun Mo.

    "Okay, I''m not in the mood to y staring game with you. Spill it. What is going on?" Yan Mei questioned.

    "Did something happen to Mom and Dad?" Yan Mei asked again

    Henry Liu avoided Yan Mei''s gaze. He was afraid she would see the pain in his eyes, and he surely didn''t want to lie to her.

    "¡­."

    Silence greeted Yan Mei. No one said anything. Edward Wu rubbed his temple and looked at Yan Mei.

    They had wanted to meet the woman who has tamed Lei Zhao but never got the chance. They had left earlier at the g by the time they had arrived and she got sick so Lei Zhao didn''t allow them to meet her. Who would have known their first encounter would be like this?

    What should he tell her? Should he tell her the possibility of her husband being dead was high? The atmosphere thickened with dead silence.

    Suddenly Yan Mei''s face turned ashen, and she twiddled with her thumb due to o the anxiety building inside her because their silence made her thoughts went haywire.

    ''Why were Lei Zhao''s friends suddenly here? Lei Zhao hasn''t called her for the past two days. That has never happened before. He always calls her every chance he got. So why did his calls stoping on the day he was supposed toe home? Unless¡­''

    "Is Lei Zhao right? Something happened to him. I''m correct, am I not?"

    "¡­." No one said anything.

    "Answer me!" Yan Mei angrily demanded, making them quickly looked at her. Jun Mo quickly met her eyes as their eyes met slightly. He quickly diverted his gaze.

    Yan Mei chuckled humorlessly. "What, you think I''m a feeble woman who doesn''t deserve to know what has happened to her husband?" Do you have any fucking idea of the sleepless nights I have been having these past few days? How much I''m afraid that something had happened to him? But you all knew. How long were you nning on hiding things from me?!" Yan Mei bellowed.

    A trace of surprise passed through Edward Wu''s eyes. "We are not sure so we didn''t want to create unnecessary panic." Edward Wu said.

    Yan Mei rubbed her temples in frustration when she heard him. Ignoring what he said, she looked at Jun Mo since she is more familiar with him.

    "Dr. Jun, what happened to my husband? If you want to leave here with an intact body you wouldn''t think about lying to me." Yan Mei''s whole demeanor changed. She felt a sh of irritation as fury roared through her mind. Their act of hiding whatever that was going on balked at her. Her patience was wearing thin.

    Her husband was probably going through something. It''s been two days already but because she is a woman; they didn''t want to tell her.

    Jun Mo looked at Edward Wu, and he nodded, signaling Jun Mo to tell her. He knew this woman wasn''t simple. She deserved to know.

    Yan Mei rolled her eye. She knew Edward Wu was the person in charge of all of this.

    "Sister-inw, please calm down." Jun Mo mumbled.

    "Oh, but I''m calm. If I wasn''t, we wouldn''t be wasting time here right now." Yan Mei retorted.

    Jun Mo heaved a sigh, "Lei Zhao''s car¡­...when he was going to the airport¡­." Jun Mo trailed off.

    He fidgeted and took a deep breath, "The car¡­it-was in a car---ident. The car erupted into mes."

    He breathed heavily after he said this and waited; waited for Yan Mei''s reaction.

    Yan Mei''s body stiffened. A shiver moved down her spine as if someone was trailing a razor de over her back.

    Jun Mo''s voice echoed in her head.

    ''Car ident¡­. erupted into mes¡­car-erupted---mes.'' The voice kept ringing in her ears.

    Yan Mei chuckled manically. "Are you kidding me? "

    A wave of pain assaulted her chest. "Car ident? Erupted into mes? Is this a Hollywood movie?"

    Yan Mei snorted, she didn''t want to believe it. How can this happen?

    "Sister-in- "

    "Okay, so where is he? I need to see him. How dare he get into an ident? Does he want me to be a widow at such a young age?" Yan Mei mumbled as she stood up.

    "Hurry and take me to him!" She rumbled.

    "Sister-inw." Jun Mo called out Yan Mei.

    "What?! Why are you wasting time? He needs me." Yan Mei breathed.

    "He-we-couldn''t find his body. We assume he died in the car." Henry Liu finally spoke.

    Yan Mei''s face turned ashen, and she staggered. Her knees wobbled, and she sat on the sofa.

    Have you ever wanted death toe and take you because your hearts hurt so much? Her pain was excruciating like someone was slowly removing your skin from your body without giving you the chance to die.

    "How can he die? He promised me he woulde back safely." Yan Mei whispered.

    "NO! NO! NO! I don''t believe it. I refuse o believe this. Is this some kind of joke?"

    Pain,

    Torment

    Grief

    Anguish

    Time seems to stop as they consume her. Did her bad omen finally get to him? Did she kill another person because he fell in love with her? Demons like her don''t get happily ever after, she should have known better.

    After everything she had gone through, she still hoped; hope that she would find love. Ha! Look at where that love has gotten her. Innocent people keep dying.

    Yan Mei was losing control. Her dark side was winning over her. Is this the curse she has to live with as her father''s daughter?

    They looked quietly at Yan Mei. There was not a single drop of tears in her eyes. Apart from her pale face, she was too calm, but the pain and anguish they saw in her eyes broke their heart.

    They didn''t know how tofort her. How do youfort a woman who has lost her husband?

    1 sec, 10 mins, 1 hour passed by.

    Suddenly Yan Mei got up and run out of the house. Panic rushed through Edward Wu. If something happens to her, Lei Zhao would never forgive him.

    "Jun Mo follow her; make sure she doesn''t do anything stupid." Edward Wu ordered.

    He would want to go after her himself, but he knew she was morefortable around Jun Mo.

    Yan Mei quickly sat in her car and drove away. She saw Jun Mo following her.

    Yan Mei knew he was worried about her so she didn''t care. She drove to her and Lei Zhao''s apartment and hurriedly ran upstairs. She went to their bedroom and locked the door before Jun Mo reached the door.

    "Miss Yan. Don''t do anything stupid. It''s not yet confirmed. Please!" Jun Mo said as he knocked on the door. His chest tightened.

    He ran a frustrated hand through his hair. The door was a security one. He couldn''t break in without help.

    He quickly called for help.

    Yan Mei went to the bathroom. She stood in front of the sink mirror and picked the razor de. She looked at her reflection and a mad light flickered in her eyes.

    Without taking her eyes from her reflection. She pressed the razor de against her wrist and shed it deep as she could.

    No pain or emotion was on her face. The blood rushed out her wrist fast.

    "Miss Yan?!" She heard Jun Mo''s voice thick with panic, but she ignored him¡­

    -----------

    A victorious, sinister smile formed on a man''s face as he yed with the girl on hisp''s hair. His happiness knew no bound right now. He would pay a billion to see the hurt and pain on Feng Mei''s face when she hears her dear husband was no more.

    Would she cry, throw things away? The man chortled manically.

    A knock on the door sounded.

    "Come in," his husky voice sounded. A servant walked in, and after respectfully greeting him left, putting a tray of whiskey on the table.

    "Get up and show Daddy you''re a good girl." He said with hismanding voice.

    Disgust shed in the girl''s eyes, but she quickly masked it. She stood up and walked to the entrance of the door and got on all four.

    The man looked at her as she slowly crawled towards him. His hand ran through her hair when she reached him. He harshly tugged at her and a sinister smile spilled from his lips.

    "I know you sip poison in the wine, but I still drank it." The man chuckled.

    The girl widened her eyes in fear. A shiver ran along her spine before she could respond he snapped her neck; killing her.

    He looked at the girl''s body and chortled. Hisugh echoing in the room.

    He was simply a madman whose madness knew no bounds.

    FOR FICOOL READERS

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    Go to ystore

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    Search for sh Marriage: The Domineering Wife in the feature search button

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    THank you

 Chapter 123 Find him

    <h4>Chapter 123 Find him</h4>

    Author''s Note; There are plenty of ways to die but only love can kill you and keep you alive

    -Leo Christopher.

    Yan Mei sauntered to the bedroom then stared at herself in the mirror. Without any thoughts of where her husband Lei Zhao is, she sighed exasperatedly as the only solution shed in her mind.

    With her eyes searching for something sharp, she found a razor de. Yan Mei extended her left arm, clenching her fist. She looked at her reflection and a mad light flickered in her eyes.

    Without taking her eyes from her reflection. She pressed the razor de against her wrist and shed it deep as she could in one swift movement.

    No pain or emotion was on her face. The blood rushed out her wrist fast.

    "Miss Yan?!" She heard Jun Mo''s voice thick with panic but she ignored him. With her hands shaking, she drew a circle with a five-pointed star polygon inside with the blood flowing from her wrists.

    Suddenly the mirror glowed, and a red incantation appeared on the sink. It had one big circle with two smaller circles inside it.

    On the incantation appeared two triangles¡ªa normal one, and an inverted one on top of it. In the middle of the triangle showed one circle with symbols written on it, as six other foreign symbols scribbled on the smaller triangles that appeared in the overall incantation spell.

    Yan Mei felt a rush of power course within her¡ªher skin became paler than the moon. Her facial features became remarkably wless, her eyes turning scarlet red like the blood with her veins marring her wless face.

    "Numquid ipse viveret?"(Is he alive?)

    The symbol disappeared and a red message written in blood appeared in the mirror, answering her question.

    "Quod sit vivre." (He is alive)

    Her heart skipped a beat as she continued mumbling to herself.

    "Osteride mihi." (Show me). Her voice was reverberating with power.

    The mirror illuminated itself and from a slight gray smokey blur an image appeared.

    "Lei Zhao!" Yan Mei''s heart skipped a beat looking at the image She staggered and nearly fell If not because she believed in her spell, she would have thought he was dead

    On the mirror''s reflection showed Yan Mei''s unconscious husband. Her lips trembled as her heart ached, seeing how the person she loves in such a dire situation.

    "Lei Zhao," her voice croaked as she tried her best to keep her tears at bay. Her right hand shakily, slowly reached out the mirror as if reaching out to him.

    Her eyebrows furrowed and her eyes reflected destion when she noticed that there was blood seeping out of Lei Zhao''s head. His clothes were almost disintegrated by the mes. His back seemed to receive the impact of the explosion as seen by his burnt skin, almost showing his flesh.

    He seemed toy in the grass at an outskirt of a town. From the looks of things, someone had thrown him there. No wonder they couldn''t find him.

    Yan Mei covered her mouth with her hands; she felt like the world was closing on her. To think he has been lying there for days! How he was still alive was a mystery.

    "Ubi est is" (Where is he?) Yan Mei asked with a shaking voice.

    Suddenly the sound of someone forcing to open the door sounded. Yan Mei knew she had to hurry. She was losing so much blood by the cut. Even though power was resonating through her, she felt herself getting weaker by the seconds.

    This was a deadly spell. If her father was here, he wouldn''t have allowed her to do this. An address appeared in the mirror. Yan Mei memorized it quickly. Suddenly the door burst opened.

    Yan Mei''s eyes quickly returned to her normal brown color, the veins disappeared from her face and her facial features returned to her original one.

    The words in the mirror disappeared and everything returned like it was before.

    "Miss Yan?" Jun Mo''s panicked voice called her when he saw her standing in front of the mirror with her back facing him.

    Jun Mo''s eyes followed her body as if he was afraid she would evaporate into thin air and disappeared.

    "Miss Yan?" He called again, but Yan Mei didn''t respond. Jun Mo looked on the floor and saw the pool of blood there.

    His heart hammered in his chest. Jun Mo quickly rushed to her side. Yan Mei turned around and muttered an address to him, "XXXXX, NO 9. Find him, please" before she lost herself into the darkness.

    "Miss Yan!" Hauling her upper body unto hisp, Jun Mo mped his hand over her wrist, he applied pressure trying to stop the blood flow. He wouldn''t forgive himself if something happens to her.

    They knew how much she means to Lei Zhao. They have seen the way his eyes would sparkle anytime he spoke about her. She became the sun in his dark world after his brother''s death and now that he isn''t here, they would do anything to protect her. hauling Yan Mei to her chest

    Jun Mo hauled her to his chest, he swung her legs over his forearm and got to his feet. He quickly jogged to his car which was parked in front of the house.

    Within minutes heid Yan Mei across the backstreet. At this moment he had forgotten that he was a doctor and he could have performed first aid before rushing out.

    From losing Lei Zhao to the possibility of losing his wife because of his recklessness made his brain messy.

    Jun Mo hit the elerator, and his Porsche car fishtailed onto the main road. Jun Mo swung his car into the emergency room driveaway and and shouldered out of the car. Blood crusted to his shirt, but Jun Mo wasn''t in the mood to think about this people''s.

    A sh of surprise shed through people''s eyes when they saw Jun Mo. Two nurses burst from the automatic double ss and rushed towards him.

    He watched as they strapped oxygen over her nose and mouth and loaded her onto the gurney.

    Guilt gnawed at his inside as he followed them, suddenly his phone rang snapping him from his guilt. Removing the phone from his pocket he saw the caller ID it was Edward Wu calling him.

    "What happened? Is she okay?" Edward Wu asked the moment the call was connected.

    "She slit her wrist." Jun Mo whispered.

    "What?! So where are you now?" Edward Wu asked

    "Hospital."

    Edward Wu frowned when he heard Jun Mo''s voice.

    "Are you okay?" Edward Wu asked with concernced in his voice.

    "I- I didn''t get to her earlier. If something happens to her- "

    Edward Wu heaved a sigh, why was everything falling apart?

    "I''ming there, text me the address."

    At this moment Jun Mo remembered the address Yan Mei gave him before passing out.

    "No, she gave me an address before passing out. She begged me to find him."

    Edward Wu''s brows furrowed when he heard him.

    "What are you talking about?"

    "I think she is talking about Lei Zhao. She gave me the address before passing out." Jun Mo repeated. His voice slightly excited.

    "I will send you the address. I think you should go to New York. Don''t worry, henry Liu and I will take care of everything."

    Edward Wu turned to look at Henry Lu and agreed.

    "Alright, send me the address."

    -----------------

    Ye Xing groaned feeling like his head was spinning. His skin crawled with the sensation of ants ying on it. His eyelids felt heavy and his throat felt sore and dry.

    His mind was slowly trying to process what was going on as he struggled to open his eyelids.

    Ye Xing fluttered his eyes open. Sunlight beamed through the window to his right. He heard whispers making him frown.

    Ye Xing realized he was bandaged on the head. Suddenly he remembered that he and Lei Zhao was attack when they were going to the airport. Panic wed through him as he fought to sit upright but the pain in his lower abdomen stopped him.

    Ye Xing groaned, he hated feeling weak. ''Where was Lei Zhao? Was he okay?'' From his surroundings he realized he was in an apartment.

    Suddenly the door opened showing a woman. Her head was tied in a messy bun and his sses was too big on her face. A trace of surprise passed rhough the woman''s eyes.

    "You are awake!" She eximed.

    YE Xing''s face contorted with a frown as he looked at her.

    "Who are you?" He asked huskily in English. Even though the woman was a Chinese he wasn''t sure she could speak Mandarin.

    The woman quickly rushed to his side and poured a ss of water for him.

    "I''m An Qi. I saw you in the middle of the road when I wasing back from work. Your car was in ident."

    Ye Xing nodded, "Why didn''t you take me to the hospital?"

    An Qi shrugged, "Actually I saw a group of dangerous men picking up another man lying on the road too. I waited until they left before I approached you. So, I thought if I take you the hospital they woulde and kill you like in the movies."

    Ye Xing stiffened when he heard her, "What did you say?!"

    An Qi stepped back in fright. "Sorry."

    Seeing the scared look on her face Ye Xing apologized awkwardly.

    "Ah, it''s okay. Yes, they took the man away."

    Ye Xing frowned deepened. He knew whoever took Lei Zhao was the same person responsible for their ident. But who is it?

    "

 Chapter 124 Is he alive?

    <h4>Chapter 124 Is he alive?</h4>

    "Hey, is everything okay? Who was that man? Why did those men take him way?" An Qi asked snapping Ye Xing from his haze.

    "Can I get a mobile phone?" Ye Xing asked ignoring her questions. He needed to call back up. Whoever took Lei Zhao they needed to find him first.

    "Yes." An Qi said and removed her phone from her purse and gave it to Ye Xing.

    "Thank you." An Qi nodded and walked out of the room.

    Ye Xing dialed a number. After a single ring, the call was connected.

    "It''s me, Ye Xing." Ye Xing said weakly.

    "Team leader!" A voice greeted respectfully.

    Ye Xing furrowed his brows as a wave of pain hit his abdomen.

    "Trace this number and find my location. Boss¡­" Ye Xing took a deep breath because of the pain before he continued.

    "We had an ident and when I woke up, Boss was not there. Send backup here and call Mr. Wu; Boss''s friend to help you. He would know what to do!" Ye Xing barked orders in one breath.

    If anyone can help them find Lei Zhao fast it was Mr. Wu.

    "I will do that right!" The man respectfully replied without any questions.

    "Make sure none of this is a leak." Ye Xingmanded.

    "Yes, team leader. We will find you soon!" Ye Xing hung up the call and heaved a sigh.

    Suddenly a dangerous light passed through his eyes. Before the ident, he remembers that Lei Zhao was poisoned. The only suspicious person was Mr. Andre.

    But how did he poison Lei Zhao? This whole attack wasn''t simple and whoever nned is a very dangerous person. The sooner they find him the better.

    The door opened and An Qi came in, holding a tray containing porridge. She ced the food on the table and near Ye Xing.

    "Eat, you need energy. You have been sleeping for three days now. Ye Xing stiffened.

    "What? Three days?!"

    An QI nodded this time she didn''t get scared from his harsh tone.

    Panic hammered in Ye Xing''s chest. So, Lei Zhao has been missing for three days? Where did they take him? Was he even alive at this time?

    Terror ran through Ye Xing''s veins. He needed to find Lei Zhao fast. If something happens to him. He wouldn''t forgive himself.

    Ye Xing tried to get up but the moment his feet hit the floor, he staggered. If An Qi hasn''t quickly held him he would have fallen on the floor.

    "Where do you think you''re going?!" An Qi scolded him as she helped him sit down on the bed.

    "I need to find the man that was with me." Ye Xing said anxiously.

    An Qi frowned, "I don''t think he is even still alive. From the way he looked and the way they were carrying him, he looked pretty dead to me."

    An Qi stepped back in fright when she saw the dangerous light n Ye Xing''s eyes. Dead silence fell in the room. The words of An Qi echoed in his ear.

    ''Will Lei Zhao have died so easily?'' Ye Xing didn''t want to believe this. How can Lei Zhao die so easily?

    "Even though you want to find him, you need to eat first then take your medications. After that¡­..we can find the man."

    Ye Xing brows knitted together as e stared at the woman in front of him.

    "What?" An Qi asked with a confused frown marring on her face when she saw Y Xing was staring at her with a deep frown on his face.

    "Why did you save me?" He asked Ye Xing asked. All his life he has been trained to be the one to do the saving. Now that someone saved him, he felt weird.

    An Qi shrugged, "I think if anyone was in my shoe they would have done the same thing. Now eat before the porridge gets cold. I will dress your wound after."

    Ye Xing raised his brows, "you took care of me?"

    An Qi nodded, "Ah yes. I''m a doctor in this small town. Ye Xing didn''t say anything. He stared at the porridge and his stomach growled.

    "Are you afraid that I have poisoned you?" An Qi asked as she rolled her eyes.

    "If I wanted you dead, I would have killed you when you were in aa."

    Ye Xing looked up at her and looked at the food on the table.

    Yes, she was right, if she wanted to kill him she would have done it earlier. Why wait for him to wake up? Also, he needed the strength to search for Lei Zhao.

    ------------

    Edward Wu quickly called his pilot and his men once Jun Mo sent the address to him and quickly left for New York. He kept looking at the address Jun Mo sent him and his brows furrowed in deep thought. Where did Yan Mei get the address and why was she so sure that he was there?

    "Sir, we have reached." His assistant''s voice snapped him out of his daze.

    "Let''s go." Edward Wu ordered. Currently, they were at the address Yan Mei gave to them.

    The moment he stepped them from the car; his phone rang. Edward Wu ignored the call but it seems the person was persistent.

    Frowning he removed his phone from his pocket and looked at the unfamiliar number.

    "Xx11087" The person recited a series of codes the moment Edward Wu picked up the call.

    It was a code to give a person''s identity in the military. Edward Wu narrowed his eyes when he heard the code.

    "What''s the emergency?" He asked coldly. Edward Wu was in a hurry to find Lei Zhao and he didn''t want to deal with any problems right now.

    "Reporting, I got a call from Nightmare. There has been an ident. We seek your help to find our captain."

    The man said directly without beating around the bush. From what he said Edward Wu knew who he was talking about. Also, he realized Ye Xing was not with Lei Zhao.

    "Copy, find Nightmare first. I would take care of the rest."

    "Alright, sir."

    Edward Wu hung up the car and turned to look at his men.

    Find him. Make sure you leave no stone unturned.

    "Yes sir!" They chorused and began their search.

    Half an hourter they didn''t find anyone.

    "Did you find anything?" Edward Wu asked in the mic.

    "West coast is clear, sir."

    "East coast is clear."

    "North coast is clear."

    Edward Wu pinched the bridge of his nose. His anxiety was increasing by the seconds.

    "I found him!" Suddenly an excited voice said in the mic.

    "Where?" Edward Wu asked anxiously.

    "Sir in the south coast."

    Edward Wu quickly rushed there. He stopped in his tracks when he saw Lei Zhao lying there.

    He couldn''t bring himself to move a step. Looking at his pale face with blood all over his face.

    "Is¡­.Is he alive?" For the first time, he knew what real panic was.

    "Yes, he has a pulse, but it''s extremely weak. We need to hurry or we might lose him."

    Edward Wu nodded and turned to look at his assistant.

    "Hurry we have to transport him to the mansion." Edward Wu immediately ordered his men to lift Lei Zhao and carry him back to his mansion here in New York. He had already fixed a hospital inside beforeing here.

    Now a team of best doctors was waiting there to treat Lei Zhao.

    Because Edward Wu didn''t want to risk Lei Zhao''s life, he didn''t take him to the hospital.

    In less than an hour, they arrived at the mansion. Even the doctors were surprised that Lei Zhao was still alive.

    They immediately started treating him.

    Edward Wu sat on a chair and tapped his feet. He was currently waiting for the doctors to report how Lei Zhao was doing.

    While waiting he couldn''t help but think about all of this. What caused this ident? From his investigations, he knew a mysterious man visited Mr. Andre the day before they signed the contract. So that man was highly suspicious. Also changing from Lei Zhao''s blue lips he knew Lei Zhao had been poison.

    Moreover, only a few people knew Lei Zhao by his real face when he was in the military so it was definitely not an enemy from his work in the military.

    Edward Wu''s phone ringing snapped him from his thoughts. He saw the caller ID and realized it was Jun Mo.

    "Did you find him?!" he asked the moment Edward Wu picked up the call.

    "Hmm."

    Jun Mo frowned on the other side. Now Yan Mei''s condition had been stabilized.

    Fortunately, she didn''t lose a lot of blood. The doctors said she was stressed out and he had to take care of her.

    Jun Mo could still remember the doctor''s harsh scolding. He heaved a sigh.

    "What''s wrong? He is okay right?" Edward Wu raked his fingers through his hair.

    "I don''t know." Edward Wu said tly.

    "What do you mean you don''t know?"

    "The doctors are treating him. I''m still waiting for their report."

    Jun Mo removed his sses and rubbed his eyes tiredly.

    "Okay, update me."

    "Okay. How is she?" Edward Wu asked about Yan Mei''s condition.

    "She is stable now. She will wake up soon."

    Edward Wu leaned against the chair, "Don''t tell anyone about this yet. I don''t want to give them hope and snatch itter incase¡­" Edward Wu trailed off sighing.

    "I understand. Please call me when the doctorse out."

    "I will." Edward Wu said and hang up the call.

 Chapter 125 Not breathing

    <h4>Chapter 125 Not breathing</h4>

    The moment Jun Mo hung up the call, he made his way to Yan Mei''s ward to check up on her. His heart thumped in his chest when he saw the bed was empty!

    "Miss Yan?" Jun Mo called out, but no one replied.

    Flustered, he pressed the bell to call the nurses. Two nurses hurriedly came.

    "Sir, is there any problem?" They asked when they saw the panic-stricken on his face.

    "Where is she?!" Jun Mo demanded.

    The two nurses looked at each other, they realized the bed was empty and someone had removed the IV drip that was put on the patient. Few drops of blood had stained the bedsheet.

    "I will go to check the bathroom." One of them said and quickly left to check the bathroom. Since the ward was a VIP ward, there was a bathroom allocated inside.

    She came back a few seconds and shook her head, "Sir, she is not there."

    Jun Mo felt he would lose his sanity after all of this is over.

    ''Where did she go?''

    "Do you have a surveince camera installed in the hallway?" Jun Mo questioned.

    "Yes, sir. I will call the Dean." Since they were staying at the most expensive VIP ward; the nurses knew his identity wasn''t simple.

    "Okay." Jun Mo said and followed the nurses out of the ward.

    A few minutester, a flustered man jogged towards Jun Mo. A trace of surprise shed through his eyes when he saw Jun MO.

    They informed him that a patient in the VIP ward has run away. Since this is the first time that a patient has run away in this hospital he was flustered. If the news leaks their hospital, reputation would plummet.

    But he didn''t think the patient was rted to the famous surgeon Jun Mo. He had the privilege to listen to Jun Mo''s speech at one of the Doctor''s Annual Conference. The young surgeon who had taken the country was an inspiration for many.

    "Dr. Jun!" The Dean respectfully greeted Jun Mo. The nurses opened their mouths when they heard the Dean. Seeing their arrogant Dean being respectful to someone shocked them, but hearing the person''s name made them more excited.

    They have heard about the famous Dr. Jun but because he is really low-key; only a few people has seen him.

    Who would have thought they would get the chance to meet him today!

    The doctor who scolded Jun Mo earlier paused in his track when he heard the Dean. He heard his patient had run away, and he hurriedly rushed here. Because the patient had slit her wrist, the doctor knew her condition was special, so he wanted to personally monitor her condition.

    The doctor had assumed Jun Mo was the reason why she had slit her wrist so he had scolded him earlier, but the person he scolded was his idol? The doctor stood there awkwardly for a few seconds, not knowing what to do.

    Jun Mo nodded at the Dean. "Can I see the surveince camera at the Room 303 hallway?" Jun Mo asked.

    The Dean nodded as he swallowed, "Yes-Yes, please follow me."

    He can''t believe the person Dr. Jun personally brought to his hospital went missing. The Dean called the head of the security team so they were waiting for them.

    "Dr. Jun tell them what you need." The Dean said.

    "Can you show me the surveince camera in Room 303 hallway?"

    The head of the security team nodded and showed the surveince

    Jun Mo looked at Yan Meiing out of the room, she looked at her left then right. Jun Mo saw her, paused when she saw him on the phone.

    But she started walking the other way. Jun Mo heaved a sigh.

    "Can I see the surveince from where she is going?"

    Jun Mo frowned when he saw her get in a ck car the moment she left the hospital. It''s like the person was waiting for her toe.

    "Is that all?'' The head of the security asked Jun Mo.

    "Yes thank you."

    The Dean raised his brows when he saw the person they were looking for was a girl.

    Was the famous doctor married? Or was it a girlfriend?

    ----------

    "Miss, we are here. A-are you sure you want to do this? If the master finds out¡­"

    "Shadow, who do you serve?" Yan Mei cut him off coldly, sweeping an icy re at him.

    "Sorry Miss." Shadow knelt on the ground and bowed his head in submission.

    Yan Mei had saved him two years ago. He had no memory of who he was or what is his name was. To thank her and pay her life-saving grace; he had trained hard these past two years to be her personnel bodyguard. Like her shadow, he hides in the dark and follows her quietly.

    Unfortunately, he got injured a few months ago and had to disappear for a while. When he came back, he heard she was married.

    Shadow had seen how terrible she was these years now that she is married, he is happy for her. But he got a call from her the moment he came back from treatment to pick her from the hospital.

    Shadow was scared that something had happened to her but from hermand, he realized her husband was in danger in New York.

    Ignoring him, Yan Mei focused on opening the portal.

    With the flick of her wrist as she waved her hand, her eyes instantly turned scarlet red as a swirling water-like barrier as tall as her appeared beside her. It reflected the busy street of NY but despite the demesne bustling with people, mortals can''t see the portal. With that, she raised her chin up as she walked through the portal, appearing in a hidden alley in Times Square, devoid of walking humans."

    Walking out of the alley, she sat in a calr prepared by Shadow which was waiting for them.

    "Miss." The driver greeted and started the car.

    Shadow gave an address to the driver, and the car fell in dead silence.

    Every second was torturous for Yan Mei, without knowing the physical condition of Lei Zhao.

    She leaned against the seat and closed her eyes. Half an hourter the car stopped in front of a mansion.

    Yan Mei opened her eyes and arched her brows.

    "Are you sure he is here?"

    "Yes, Miss," Shadow replied.

    Yan Mei furrowed her brows when she saw the tight security in the mansion. She was afraid Edward Wu didn''t get to Lei Zhao in time, and the enemy had found him.

    "You know what to do." Yan Mei said tly. Shadow got down from the car and disappeared.

    Yan Mei tapped her feet anxiously waiting for him.

    Ten minutester, he came back.

    "Miss, a man is inside, he is really dangerous. We need to be careful. Also, I saw doctors in the other room, they are treating an unconscious man."

    Yan Mei opened the door quickly and rushed inside the house. She knew it was Edward Wu he was talking about.

    One guard saw a woman wearing a hospital gown running inside the mansion and frowned.

    "Miss where are you going?" he blocked Yan Mei and asked.

    Yan Mei ignored him and tried to bypass him, but the man blocked her again.

    "Call Mr. Wu for me. Tell him Miss Yan is here." Yan Mei said.

    The guard looked at her warily, but he still ordered his men to call Mr. Wu. Looking at the thin body of the woman in the hospital gown, he couldn''t help but feel sorry for her.

    **

    "What do you mean, she ran away from the hospital?!" Edward Wu bellowed in anger as he questioned Jun Mo.

    "A car came to pick her up the moment she left the hospital, so I guess she is okay." Jun Mo muttered.

    Edward Wu heaved a sigh. Suddenly he heard footsteps.

    He saw a guard running towards him.

    "Sir, there is a Miss Yan at the entrance." The guard said not noticing Edward Wu was on the phone.

    Edward Wu stood up from the car, "what did you say? Miss Yan is looking for me?"

    The guard stepped back in fright, "Y-Yes Sir...Should we send her away?"

    "What time did she leave the hospital?" Edward Wu asked Jun Mo on the other side of the phone.

    "Forty minutes ago." Jun Mo replied looking at his watch.

    "Then how did she get in New York in such a short time?" Edward Wu asked with a frown.

    "She is there?!" Jun Mo asked, bewildered.

    "Let me go and see." Edward Wu rushed to the entrance and saw Yan Mei standing there in a hospital gown.

    "Where is he?" Yan Mei asked the moment she saw Edward Wu.

    "Is that sister-inw?" Jun Mo asked.

    "Yes." Edward Wu said and hung up the call.

    To say he was shocked was an understatement.

    "Where is he?!" Yan Mei asked again, snapping him from his thoughts.

    "Miss Yan? How did you get here?"

    Edward Wu asked in shock.

    "Tell me where he is. How I got here is not important."

    Yan Mei refuted clearly she was getting annoyed.

    Edward Wu beckoned at the guard to let her go.

    Yan Mei strode towards Edward Wu.

    Edward Wu led her inside the mansion.

    "The doctors are still operating on him. Sit down."

    Yan Mei ignored him and stared at the door where the doctors were.

    Yan Mei felt her heart shattering with every second.

    "I- I want to go in." Yan Mei swallowed as she said.

    Edward Wu frowned. He wanted to refuse, but one look from Yan Mei and he swallowed his words.

    "I will arrange it."

    "Five minutester, Yan Mei was ushered in the room.

    Yan Mei paused in her tracks when she saw Lei Zhao''s lifeless body lying on the bed surrounded by five doctors and three nurses. His skin was horrendously pale.

    Suddenly one doctor shouted, causing Yan Mei''s heart to fell in her stomach.

    "We are losing him!"

    Yan Mei staggered back.

    "No-no- save him!" Yan Mei pleaded.

    She didn''t even realize when she was near Lei Zhao''s lifeless body. Her fingers shaking as she stretched to touch his cheeks.

    "Lei...Zhao..you have to wake up..please." She whimpered.

    "The poison is spreading to his heart. Hurry!"

    Suddenly the monitors started beeping.

    "Lei Zhao! Lei Zhao?" She screamed.

    "Please¡­please don''t leave me. I love you¡­I love you¡­"

    Yan Me uttered hoping he would say it back, but only the bitter words of the doctor rang in her ears.

    "He is not breathing!"

    Just four words, but Yan Mei felt her entire world shattering around her. Yan Mei wanted to believe she was hallucinating.

    "No-no save him. You have to or I will bury all of you with him!"

    Yan Mei bellowed. She stared at the lifeless body and the light in her eyes was gone.

    She had lost Lei Zhao. Her happy pill was no more.

    Tears fell from her eyes as she pressed a kiss on his icy skin, his icy lips. The doctors just stared at her, no one dared to stop her.

    Yan Mei knew thest bit of her sanity was gone. It had died with him.

 Chapter 126 Taste no mercy

    <h4>Chapter 126 Taste no mercy</h4>

    Author''s Note: Please this chapter was brought to you by my sister. MysticAmy. She is such a good fantasy writer( I envy her skills! lool) Please support her book The Soul Eater''s Possession here please please. Thank you!

    Yan Mei stood up from the bed, an ominous aura emanating from her. She crossed her arms in front of her chest as she raised her chin, giving the doctors a condescending look. Seeing a sinister smile on her face, the doctors stepped back in fear, their eyes widening in fright as Yan Mei''s eyes turned red, her veins marred on her face.

    A powerful gust of wind blew in the room, making the lights flicker on and off. The hairs on their body started to stand in attention as if they were soldiers. With annoyance coursing through Yan Mei''s body, the current in the light exploded, the ss shards falling on them and on the floor.

    The doctors rushed towards the door but the moment their handsnded on the handle, the door was closed shut, not giving them a chance to escape. With a mockingugh, the doctors looked at Yan Mei as they cowered in fear. Her voice was heard echoing inside the room, asserting her dominance.

    "I told you¡­," she trailed off, her smirk disappearing from her face, her eyebrow arching up to intimidate them. "I will bury you with him if he dies."

    Wanting to let them know how serious she is, with a flick of her finger, she raised one doctor effortlessly in the air without touching him. The moment she put her finger down to her side, the doctor''s body mmed hard on the floor, making him cough out a little blood.

    Seeing that she was dangerous, the doctors scrambled to rush to the door for their escape. Sheughed at them mockingly as she watched how frantic they were in wanting to escape. Herughter bellowed even more when she saw how the doctors realized that the door was locked.

    The doctors turned to look at her with fear in their eyes. When they realized that they were trapped, for the first time since they worked, they started regretting their upation.

    "So... shall we start?"

    Yan Mei asked, her left hand twirling her hair yfully. With her right hand, she pointed a finger at them as if choosing her target¡ªher prey. When her finger stopped on one doctor, he urinated himself in fear. Yan Mei chuckled when she saw how the doctor cowered in fear.

    "Humans... always pathetic," she said as she shrugged, disdain etched in her voice.

    A loud scream echoed and sounded in the vast room, making Edward, who was outside, feel unsettled. With that, he rushed to the door and knocked on it anxiously.

    "Miss Yan!?" There was no answer. Only screams and painful moans could be heard. He tried to open the door, but he couldn''t.

    With adrenaline rushing through his veins, he called his men to open the door, but even with their attempt, it wouldn''t budge. He didn''t know why... but there is a bad feeling that he felt in the pit of his stomach, his expression turning sour with uncertainty.

    Yan Mei nonchntly tilted her head to the side. She looked like a bored child who was forcing herself to y to look entertained. When her eyesnded on another doctor, she yawned as her eyes turned red. Without making any effort toy a finger on them, she raised her right hand, her index finger slowly drawing a sh on thin air. Little did the doctors know that she was already making a cut on their colleague''s forehead.

    "A-ah, no!" Feeling that there was some liquid tricking down from his forehead to his nose, to his lips... the moment he tasted the iron, he realized that it was his blood. In sheer fear, he fainted, making the others cower in front of the merciless woman in front of them.

    When she was about to look for another doctor, the other doctors in the room also fainted, making Yan Mei roll her eyes feeling exasperated.

    "Tsk... you''re no fun!" Yan Mei smirked and turned to the other doctors who aren''t unconscious, making them stammer as they speak.

    "P-please... spare us. Please, w-we beg you!"

    Shaking her head and with sarcasm in her voice, Yan Mei crossed her arms in front of her chest then spoke,

    "Why should I spare you? Did fate spare me from his cruelty?"

    With that, another chillingughter echoed in the room, making the other doctors silent. After a few seconds the moment she stoppedughing, her expression turned deadpan serious, as if she hadn''tughed a few moments ago.

    "Do you wanna hear a story?"

    The room fell into a deafening silence. The doctors'' eyebrows were furrowed, the others hunching andtching on to each other for protection as they still felt fear coursing throughout their bodies. Without expecting any replies from them, she started narrating her tale.

    "Once upon a time, a princess lived in a castle. She was doted on but the King and Queen since she is the only child. Because of her parents'' love and protection, the princess grew up to be quite naive, you see. She believed in the good of humanity. However, there''s no good in humanity¡ªthis she learned the hard way.

    "Once she reached a marriageable age, a prince from another country came to ask for her hand in marriage. Her father didn''t agree, but since she was madly in love with the prince, she went on ahead and married him."

    Yan Mei started walking slowly as she continued narrating. She stopped in the middle of the room and her voice continued to echo, making her story resound even in the doctors'' mind.

    "The moment she stepped her foot in her husband''s house, she went from a princess in her parents'' house, to a lowly servant." Yan Mei sighed as she shook her head, disappointed.

    "Because of her husband''s love, she swallowed all the abuse from her mother-inw and neverined."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes then continued narrating; annoyance etched in her voice.

    "One year after the marriage, the viin of the story finally appeared. She took everything from the princess and she mercilessly killed her parents.

    Two years after her marriage, precisely on her wedding anniversary, her husband threw her on the streets and used her of cheating without any exnation." Yan Mei raised her chin up, with a tint of malice present in her eyes. "That night, she lost everything, even her innocent child.

    Five yearster, she found her happily ever after again... but fate snatched him away from her. That broke thest sanity she had, turning our beloved princess into a cold-blooded demon!"

    As she finished narrating her story, Yan Mei pped her hands as sheughed out loud, as if hearing a joke that had tickled her at her sides.

    The doctors'' eyes hadn''t left hers as they watched herugh, with tears escaping from her eyes. Their eyebrows furrowed when they couldn''t decipher if the tears were because of herughter... or was it because of the sad story she had told them when her eyes also glistened sorrow¡ªa contrast to her disy of jovial mood.

    "Did fate spare her," Yan Mei asked them and without even waiting for their reply, she continued talking, now anger etched in her voice.

    "No! So why the hell should I spare you!?" Yan Mei felt irritated as she threw her hands up in the air to express her frustration. Inrge three strides, she walked up to one doctor and picked him up effortlessly by the cor, lifting him up from the ground, slightly choking him.

    She chose the doctor who announced that Lei Zhao wasn''t breathing. Remembering how it was announced to her, her eyes glowed red as she threw him aside like a trash. Possessing an inhumane strength; the moment the doctor''s body hit the ward''s wall, his bones cracked, the other doctors hearing how it crunched.

    Hearing this, it sent shivers down the other doctors'' spine. Having the courage to fight back, one of the doctors behind her grabbed and IV stand beside him then attempted to hit Yan Mei on the head.

    But the she was quick on her toes¡ªher senses were doubled; she is aware and she is unstoppable. Instinctively she turned back and gave the foolish doctor a mocking smirk.

    When the IV stand was raised against her, Yan Mei held the rod, the doctor''s eyes widening in shock. ''How is she this strong,'' he thought and in a blink of an eye, Yan Mei got the upper hand as she got the IV stand from him then hit him with that, his attempt counterattacked.

    After countering the doctor''s attack, Yan Mei looked back at the bed which supported her dearly beloved. Her eyes mellowed as she walked over to Lei Zhao slowly, the doctors backing away to give the mad woman space.

    Sitting on the bed, Yan Mei ced her hand on Lei Zhao''s face, her thumb caressing his cheek as she whispered to herself, her lips trembling.

    "Oh, Lei Zhao..." Carefully carrying her husband in her arms, she embraced him¡ªcradled him and rocked back and forth, no longer able to keep her tears at bay. She did this for a minute until she remembered that the ipetent doctors were still present, making her open her eyes, revealing her scarlet red pupils.

    ''It''s their fault!'' Gently, she ced her husband down back on the bed, then stood up as she looked at them with malice.

    "You shall taste no mercy!"

    AUTHOR''S NOTES

    I read ament saying the worst-case scenario for an ident plot isa i hope I have broadened your perspective hahaha.

    anyway, I have given lots of clue from chappie 120 to this chapter. Let me know what clue you found out. Also, what''s Yan Mei''s identity? Any thoughts? hahaha

    Is LZ really dead? What would happen next? Let me know your thoughts!

    Don''t forget to check out my sister''s book: The Soul Eater''s Possession. Thank you!

 Chapter 127 A fatherâ€™s intervention.

    <h4>Chapter 127 A father''s intervention.</h4>

    Zheng Ren sighed as he looked at the stocked documents on top of his desk. He skimmed through some papers and sighed one more time, realizing that he had to go through all of this. He got his pen at the side then got the paper and started signing them. It was all and well that he only had to skim through it since he had been doing the job for a lot of years. However, it was no longer entertaining to him as he would only sign them.

    As he was signing papers, suddenly he stopped writing his name midway. He felt something different in the air¡ªas of something ominous is happening. He stood up slowly as he got a feel of the breeze around him.

    In their realm, Zheng Ren is also known as a powerful man with a great title so with his senses keen, he would already sense something unusual¡ªlike of his realm. Noticing their boss'' change of mood, his assistant hesitantly walked up to him but got the courage to speak to him.

    "Is something the matter, Master?" Zheng Ren only shook his head. He looked at him with serious eyes, then with his low voice spoke to him, his voice echoing¡ªresounding around and inside the room.

    "Check on Yan Mei."

    "Yes, Sir." With the order given to him by their boss, the assistant contacted Shadow. They knew that he is with Yan Mei as of the moment so through themunicator that they both had, the assistant signaled, getting his attention.

    "Shadow, the Master, would want to know what is happening with Miss Yan right this moment," he asked, another voice at the other end replying to answer his

    "Well,¡­" he trailed off then he sighed a little then continued speaking.

    "She is in New York, inside a room," he briefly answered, making Zheng Ren''s eyes sh towards his assistant. From where he is, he could clearly hear their conversation. He walked towards his assistant slowly, then when he was near him, spoke, in order to talk to Shadow.

    "What is she exactly doing now, Shadow?"

    Hearing his foreboding voice, Shadow gulped slightly but still answered their supreme master''s question.

    "I will look into it, Master."

    With that, their conversation ended for a moment. Shadow sessfully infiltrated Edward Wu''s mansion and the moment he did, he put a mask on to conceal his identity from Edward Wu.

    The moment footsteps echoed in the room, Edward Wu, who was trying his best to open the door instinctively turned back to see a masked man. "

    "H-how the hell? Who are you and why are you inside!?"

    Ignoring Edward Wu, Shadow pressed his ear against the door, then he heard the groans and wails of people inside as he heard Yan Mei''s voice roaring like a lion. He clicked his tongue then further ignoring Edward Wu, he ran away then reported to Zheng Ren what is happening.

    "You ipetent fools! You were called doctors for a reason and were given the profession! Did you have it with the intention to fail!?"

    Remembering the words he had heard filled with venom earlier, a shiver ran along his spine.

    "M-Master it seems Miss...she is torturing the doctors upon knowing about the death of her husband."

    "What?" Zheng Ren''s eyes turned deadpan as he gritted his teeth.

    His hands beside him turned into tight fists as he decided toe right there and then... In an instant. With rm stered on his face, he turned on hismunicator again and talked in a rather rushed manner.

    "Where is she? Give me an address."

    Shadow gave Zheng Ren the address.

    In a blink of an eye, Zheng Ren disappeared from his office, surprising the assistant that was right in front of him.

    "What the¡ª" Even though he was aware of their master''s power, he still gets surprised every now and then since it is not a usual thing to happen in their realm. Zheng Ren appeared in the room where Yan Mei is.

    She didn''t notice him but when the doctors gasped, she instinctively looked back, her eyes wavering as she saw a powerful man in front of her.

    ''Why is he here?!''

    "Yan Mei." He only said his name, but Yan Mei stopped for a while as Zheng Ren started assessing their surroundings. He saw blood on the floor and he saw the cuts and bruises on the doctors.

    Zheng Ren''s eyebrows furrowed as he wondered what had triggered her to act in such manner. When his eyesnded on Lei Zhao''s lifeless body on the bed, the unsaid question had already been answered.

    He sighed, then he shook his head as he just stared at Yan Mei, silent.

    "Oh!" Yan Meiughed as she cocked her head to the side.

    "Have youe to join in the fun, father," she asked, her lips curling into a mischievous smirk. Her father, Zheng Ren frowned when he realized that his daughter Yan Mei hadpletely lost control of her sanity.

    "XiaoMei," her father called out to her sternly, but there was still gentleness at the same time.

    "Stop. This isn''t the right way to solve this."

    Hearing what her father Zheng Ren had said, irritation surged through Yan Mei, as if almost a vein had popped inside her head.

    "No! It''s their fault! They have to feel my despair! I will burry them and I¡ª"

    "Enough!" Zheng Ren''s deep voice resounded in the room. Even a loud speaker couldn''t match up to it.

    "Will you think, child!? You think the man who loves you would want you to do this for him?"

    It had been a long time since she heard her father''s voice. It was enough to slightly bring her to her senses. Her body trembled slightly as she embraced herself, trying to keep her from falling to her knees.

    Yan Mei''s strong upfront was suddenly shattered. Her strong walls fell apart, brick by brick, leaving her vulnerable. It was aplete contrast to how she was a while back.

    Seeing how his daughter had slightly calmed down from her rage, Zheng Ran sighed as he walked up to her in tworge strides then grabbed her hand and dragged her out of the room. He looked like a parent who was scolding his child.

    The only difference was that they were both adults now. The doctors looked at them for a fleeting moment. His physical features were unparalleled¡ªalmost out of this world. He was beyond handsome and when they realized that he had appeared suddenly in the room without even the door being opened, their mouths were suddenly agape.

    ''How did he get here? No one had entered the room!''

    The moment they had stepped out of the room, Edward Wu who was outside turned aghast.

    "H-how did you get in here? Who are you?!"

    Ignoring his shock and question, Zheng Ren had let go of his daughter, making Yan Mei avoid his scolding gaze.

    "If you stay in that room any longer, who knows if you''ll ever go back to your sanity!" As curiosity hit Edward Wu''s face, he put it aside at the moment as he stepped inside the room and saw the abused doctors.

    Edward Wu stared at Yan Mei. A trace of light passed through his eyes as he saw the blood on the floor. The moment his eyesnded on his best friend''s body, his lips started to tremble¡ªa sudden wave of pain hitting his emotions. "L-Lei Zhao?"

    He put his hand on his mouth to conceal his shock when suddenly; he felt a tap on his shoulder, surprising him more.

    "Step aside, boy. Or you''ll faint with what you''ll see." It was enough for Edward Wu to feel that this man who had appeared is someone with great power. He subconsciously nodded slowly as he left the room, in a daze.

    "What the hell is happening in my mansion," he mumbled to himself and before he knew it, the door behind him had closed shut, leaving Zheng Ren inside with the other doctors. As Zheng Ren scanned them, the doctors cowered in fear once more as they felt that he is more powerful than the mad woman that was with them a while ago.

    "P-please let us go..."

    "Yes," Zheng Ran instantly answered, a glint of hope appearing on the doctors'' face. His hand suddenly had a light emanating from it, making their eyes widen.

    "I just have to heal everyone and after that, give you a... what do you call that?" He knelt down in front of the doctors then gave them a smile. "A selective amnesia."

    The doctors'' eyes widened in fear and they gulped, "After¡­ that will you let us go?"

    The head doctor who had suffered the most from Yan Mei''s brutality asked as terror hammered n his chest.

    "Of course." Zheng Ren said and offered them a smile.

    As he erased and healed the doctors one by one, they passed out, sleeping on the cold floor. When Zheng Ren''s eyesnded on Lei Zhao''s body, he strode slowly towards him and ced his hand on him and a smirk appeared on his face, a gleam of light passing through his eyes.

    "Interesting."

    Author''s Note

    Hiyo..hope we are all good. Okay, so people are surprised about the supernatural things. NAa don''t be this book is still romance just as if Fl was an assassin she would have been a great killer. This is also her hidden power as her identity which would be revealedter.

    If Lei Zhao survives we get the fluffy, sex, shamelessness as usual. Nothing is going to change. Also everything is happening for a reason. All part of the mysteries so fear not. Hahaha.

    NEXT CHAPTER THEN WE CLOSE THIS ARC

 Chapter 128 Always and Forever

    <h4>Chapter 128 Always and Forever</h4>

    The moment Zheng Ren came out of the room, Yan Mei rushed into his arms. Zheng Ren heaved a sigh and patted her back gently. Yan Mei clutched his shirt.

    "Fa-Father¡­"

    Her words broke up and all she could utter was shattering sounds. Hot tears streamed down her face and soaked her father''s shirt, piercing straight into Zheng Ren''s heart.

    Yan Mei felt like she was drowning in a pool filled with acid. She could feel herself struggling to breath. She held her father''s shirt tightly for dear life.

    Zheng Ren said nothing and just held her. His precious daughter was once a bright woman full of life and happiness. Zheng Ren could still remember how her smile could brighten his day anytime he stared at her in the shadows.

    Yet, one day. Everything changed. Her smiles ceased and the light in her eyes disappeared. When she smiled, she looked like she was doing tedious work. She became an empty can whose eyes were always in a haze.

    Her once confident body radiated the exact opposite in her aura. Until she met him. Even though Zheng Ren was against the sh marriage, he saw how happy this man made his daughter.

    And as a father that was all he wanted; to see his dear daughter happy so he didn''t say anything and allowed them to be together. But fate as usual had to be cruel to his daughter.

    Yan Mei pulled away from her father and looked up at him. Looking at the dull and empty eyes of his daughter, Zheng Ren felt like he was dying as well.

    He stared at her as the tears slowly fell down from her face. Her shoulders were slumped.

    "P-please, father..." She was choking on her words as her tears didn''t cease. "S-save him," Yan Mei pleaded; her voice cracked and caught in her throat. "S-save him," she said once more, her clear tone was now undercut with a choking heaviness that forced her to pause several times.

    She closed her teary eyes as she waited for her father''s response. If anyone can save Lei Zhao at this moment, it was her father.

    "XiaoMei¡­"

    Her father called her out gently. Yan Mei opened her eyes and her chest tightened looking at the look in her father''s eyes. She felt like someone was sitting on it and she couldn''t breathe.

    Yan Mei stepped back and a mad smile spilled from her lips.

    "Y-You¡­ don''t w-want to, f-father," she said as she wiped her eyes but the tears flowed out more. Her bottom lips quivered and her shoulders dropped in resignation.

    "XiaoMei¡­ you know it is dangerous," Zheng Ren said, trying to make her understand the dangers in waking up a dead person.

    Complete hopelessness mmed through Yan Mei.

    "NOO!" Yan Mei screamed, her shrieking voice echoing. "BRING HIM BACK!"

    She had demanded as a great tremor overtook her. Yan Mei fell on the floor in a disheveled heap as her grief poured out in a flood of uncontroble tears. Gut-wrenching sobs racked through her chest.

    "MY HUBBY, THE LIGHT IN MY DARKNESS. Please bring him back to me!"

    Yan Mei bellowed but slowly her pleas turned into a feeble whimper and a helpless whisper.

    Edward Wu stared at the woman in a disheveled state who was heartbreakingly asking them to bring her dead husband back and he felt sour in his heart.

    He never believed in love but seeing Yan Mei''s intense emotion crying for Lei Zhao, he began to ask himself if one day if he were to die, would someone also cry like this for him? He looked away and his chin trembled, a solemn tear fell down his chin.

    His body looked calm but his heart and mind were tangled in a mess. With a shaking hand, he brought his fingers on his face. Feeling the hot liquid on his cheeks, a sad smile spilled from Edward Wu''s lips.

    Edward Wu didn''t remember thest time he cried. He didn''t cry when he lost his cat when he was a kid. He didn''t cry when he was kidnapped and tortured at the age of fifteen. For people, he was a block of wood with no emotions or whatsoever.

    Yan Mei sat on the floor and mumbled incoherent things to herself as she choked on her sobs, her noisy sobs echoing in the quiet hallway.

    The bodyguard who had been trained not to show emotions, his eyes were red, as he stared at the woman sitting on the floor in a hospital gown crying for her dead husband. Her face was puffy and tear-stained. She seemed to have lost weight in a blink of an eye.

    shes of her happy memories with Lei Zhao shed through her mind.

    "Let me make you happy, okay?"

    "Wifey... you''re gorgeous, so fucking gorgeous and you''re all mine."

    "Wifey¡­ let me worship you, okay? A woman like you deserves to be worshipped."

    "Yes, I am¡­ I''m crazy in love with you, Wifey."

    "You mean everything to me, Wifey. And we are going to grow old together."

    The words of Lei Zhao echoed in Yan Mei''s ears.

    Hearing how his words echoed in her head repeatedly like a broken record, anger shed in Yan Mei''s eyes as she still felt despair over his disappearance.

    "Liar!" She roared, her voice surprising the people around her. Yan Mei bowed her head as she muttered, "I can''t believe I fell for his lies." Yan Mei''s throat fell swollen and she stuttered as she continued to mumble to herself.

    Suddenly she felt someone lift her chin. Yan Mei looked up and her eyes mmed into a pair of familiar ones. His signature smirk was stered on his face.

    ''Isn''t he¡­ isn''t he dead?''

    Her eyesnded on those familiar eyes that she knew best. Her eyes scanned on every inch of his body, her hands touching him hesitantly and when she felt that they were real, she blinked her eyes a few times, not believing that the person she cried on and on for appeared right before her eyes.

    As if nothing happened!

    "Lei Zhao?"

    Yan Mei said his name, her voice full of uncertainty.

    "Wifey¡­"

    Lei Zhao called out affectionately with a soft smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

    "Are you¡­ no¡­ you are dead. I held your cold and lifeless body in my hands," she mumbled, her eyebrows arching up in disbelief. Seeing this, Lei Zhao chuckled and flickered her nose.

    "Maybe I''m really dead¡­ or maybe I''m just a fragment of your imagination."

    Yan Mei stretched out her hand and touched his face this time. His warmth coursed through her, hitting her straight in the heart.

    "I-I can touch you. You''re here," Yan Mei rasped.

    "Silly, of course you can!"

    Yan Mei chortled, the vision she had began to swim in front of her as tears welled from deep inside and coursed down her cheeks.

    Seeing her tears and disheveled state, Lei Zhao felt his heart shattering into a million pieces. He pulled her into a hug and Yan Mei hugged him with so much strength¡­ afraid of losing him again.

    She was afraid¡­ afraid that everything was just an illusion and he would evaporate the moment she lets him go.

    Yan Mei''s tears soaked his shirt as she breathed in his scent. With a strong will, Lei Zhao pulled away from the hug and trailed his fingers under her eyes wiping away her tears.

    "Ugly," Lei Zhaomented, making Yan Mei roll her eyes at him.

    "Who are you calling ugly," Yan Mei retorted making Lei Zhao chuckle and grasp her cheeks with both of his hands.

    "Have you forgotten what I told you on our third meeting?"

    Yan Mei''s brows furrowed. Seeing the confused frown marring on her forehead, Lei Zhao smiled as he found his wife was really the cutest.

    "You look beautiful when youugh¡­ you shouldugh more often were my exact words."

    Yan Mei smiled and leaned her cheeks in his palm.

    "See, Wifey¡­ it''s not hard to smile. Smiling is the easiest thing to do," Lei Zhao said as he caressed her cheeks.

    They gazed into each other''s eyes. Yan Mei doesn''t know how long they stared at each other''s eyes. Suddenly, she busted into a manicugh.

    "You''re not real. You''re dead. Everything is my hallucination," Yan Mei whispered, her voice thick with sadness.

    "Hmm. Or Maybe it is your subconsciousness. Or maybe it is your mind''s way of preventing you from epting the truth. Who knows," Lei Zhao said as his eyes gleamed with amusement.

    Yan Mei just stared at him with disbelief in her eyes. She just stood there silent as Lei Zhao continued to speak.

    "Wifey¡­I didn''t know you love me this much. I have to admit I''m happy," Lei Zhao chortled. "Guess my patience and endless love paid off. And oh, let''s not forget the great sex." Lei Zhao added as he threw her a subtle wink.

    Yan Mei snickered. He is still shameless as always.

    "Now I can die peacefully," Lei Zhao said as his lips twisted into a sad smile. Hearing this, Yan Mei''s smile turned into a frown in an instant.

    "You can''t leave me. You promised me that we would grow old together. I-"

    "I never said I would leave you. I would always be with you. In here, " Lei Zhao said as he pointed his finger on her chest.

    "Always and forever."

    Yan Mei''s eyes flickered to his. She saw the intense emotion in his eyes and her heart skipped a beat.

    "I love you, Wifey¡­ even death can''t stop me from loving you," Lei Zhao said as he nted a kiss on her forehead.

    And then he was gone, leaving her all alone on the cold floor.

    Yan Mei opened her mouth to let air in as her shoulders shook with grief. More tears fell on her already wet cheeks as she began to whimper.

    "Please," she pleaded. "Don''t leave me," she begged but it was no use. Everything inside her shut down. Her eyes stung and her body trembled.

    "Don''t¡­leave...me. I love you," she muttered to herself, darkness invading herpletely.

    "Yan Mei!"

    Her father quickly held her before her head could hit the cold floor.

    ----------------------

    Yan Mei had a beautiful dream while ina. In the dream, she was watching the sunset with Lei Zhao. Her head was rested on his shoulder as the chilly wind blew her hair around. Lei Zhao put an arm around her as they were silently appreciating the moment.

    Suddenly the mellow voice of a child sounded, breaking the tranquility.

    "Mommy¡­ I hungry¡­"

    A child about three years old ran towards them. Lei Zhao picked her up and ced her on hisp.

    "Go call your brother, then we will eat together," Lei Zhao said, ruffling her hair.

    ''Da, can I have chote after dinner?"

    Yan Mei frowned, "N-"

    "Yes. Of course, my little princess can have anything she wants."

    The child beamed and run away to call his brother.

    "You spoil her too much," Yan Meiined as she rolled her eyes at him.

    Lei Zhao chuckled and kissed her.

    "If I don''t spoil my daughter. Who would?"

    Yan Mei''s lips curved into a smile.

    ***

    Suddenly she felt someone nting a kiss on her forehead. Yan Mei opened her eyes and saw a pair of warm eyes staring back at her.

    "Wifey... you finally woke up."

 Chapter 129 Never again

    <h4>Chapter 129 Never again</h4>

    ^Before you read kindly read yesterday chapter again since I have made a few changes and continue from there to avoid confusion. Lol

    Author''s Note: Even death, cannot stop me from loving you.

    -Lei Zhao

    Suddenly, Yan Mei felt someone nting a kiss on he forehead. Yan Mei opened her eyes and saw a pair of warm eye staring back at her.

    "Wifey,..you finally woke up."

    Yan Mei''s eyes trailed at the person''s face. his handsome face was bruised and his lips were pale.

    Yan Mei''s finger inched up to his forehead where a gauze had been wrapped around his head.

    Yan Mei blinked as she stared at without uttering a sound.

    ''I''m I hallucinating again?'' Yan Mei asked herself as she looked quietly at the man in front of her. Her fingers trembled as she trailed his face, his lips and his jaw.

    She cupped his cheeks in her hand.

    Lei Zhao shed her a smile and grabbed Yan Mei''s hand. He pressed his lips against her palm.

    "I missed you, Wifey." Lei Zhao whispered as he he gazed into her eyes. He held her hand that was on his face tightly and brought it to his beating heart.

    Hearing the rhythm of his beating heart; Yan Mei finally woke up from her stupor.

    "L-Lei Zhao?" Her voice was faint but still, Lei Zhao heard it.

    Yan Mei''s eyes searched his for anything that would give it way that all of this is an illusion; a beautiful illusion.

    But all she saw in his brown eyes was love and affection.

    "Wifey¡­.," Lei Zhao breathed out.

    Hearing his voice and the endearment, Yan Mei''s heart started beating fast in her chest.

    "Are.. we.. in hell?" Yan Mei asked.

    Lei Zhao''s smile froze a second before he busted out intoughter.

    "Pft..ha¡­.hahah. Hell?". Yan Mei arched her brows.

    "Are we not?" Yan Mei asked.

    Lei Zhao''s held her forehead to check if she had a fever but surprisingly she didn''t.

    "Why would you think we are in hell?" Lei Zhao asked.

    Yan Mei frowned and looked at her surroundings. She was lying on a white bed and an IV drip beside her.

    Due to the decorations in the room, she knew she was not in a hospital or hell.

    "L-Lei Zhao." Yan Mei called him once again.

    "Wifey...are you okay?" Lei Zhao asked with concernced in his tone when he realized she was just staring at him in a daze.

    "Aren''t you dead? How are you still alive? I''m I going crazy? I''m I dreaming still; dreaming about my happily ever after? How long have I been out?"

    Yan Mei rambled on as tears welled up in her eyes. Seeing her devasted look, Lei Zhao felt a huge block in his heart. He cupped her face in his hands and pressed a kiss on her forehead.

    "You''re not hallucinating, Wifey. I''m really here."

    Hearing his voice, Yan Mei sat up abruptly upright. She threw her hand forward as hard as possible, whipping it across Lei Zhao''s face.

    "...."

    Dead silence filled the room at once.. Yan Mei stared at her palm. She could feel the painful sensation and looked up at Lei Zhao who was staring at her with a horrid look.

    The burning sensation in her hand made her feel everything is real.

    Lei Zhao started at her with his eyes wide open as his hands slowly made it''s way to his cheeks.

    "Wifey...I thought you would be happy to see that I''m alive. Is this how you greet your husband who has escaped death''s den?" Yan Mei narrowed her eyes at him.

    "I''m really not dreaming or hallucinating?" Yan Mei mumbled to herself.

    "Gosh, you''re even scary than your father."

    Yan Mei jolted up her head and looked up at him..

    "You met my father?"

    Suddenly, Yan Mei looked at the entrance of the room and saw her father leaning on the door with his arms folded across his chest.

    Seeing her daughter look at him, Zheng Ren smiled softly at her and nodded gently before he left the room for the couple.

    Yan Mei knew her father had really confirmed that Lei Zhao was alive.

    "Oh my! You''re alive!" Yan Mei said aloud, almost unable to believe that he was really alive. Lei Zhao was alive and was right in front of her.

    "You''re really alive Lei Zhao! Oh my. I thought you won''t be able to ever wake up and I was going to be left alone again. I was afraid that my bad omen finally got to-"

    Lei Zhao pulled her in his arms, cutting her off. He hugged her tightly as if to engulf her body into his.

    Yan Mei could feel the strong pulse of his heart as it beat against her own.Lei Zhao ced his lips on top of her head and muttered thickly in her hair.

    "Wifey..you have suffered alot, sorry. I''m really sorry. I didn''t take care of myself making you worried." Lei Zhao mumbled.

    "I missed you so much." Yan Mei whispered.

    "I missed you too. I thought I would never see your beautiful face again or be able to hold you in my arms. I was so scared and broke."

    Lei Zhao mumbled.

    "You don''t know Wifey, I would have sold my soul to the devil just to get you back." Lei Zhao mumbled.

    Unbeknownst to Lei Zhao, that''s exactly what he did.

    "I''m not leaving you,Wifey. Like I said we would grow old together and watch the stars together at night." Lei Zhao promised her.

    "Don''t leave me again, Lei Zhao. I-I would not be able to take it." Yan Mei said weakly as tears raced down her cheeks.

    "I won''t wifey. Never again." Lei Zhao said softly but firmly.

    He kissed the salty tears from her cheeks, her jaw and at the corner of her lips before crushing his lips onto hers.

    Lei Zhao kissed her with a hard desperate need. Yan Mei felt a shiver ran down her spine because this kiss felt different.

    It was filled with so much emotions that Yan Mei thought it would consume her. Lei Zhao deepened the kiss; the kiss full of hope and love.

    ________

    "Beautiful right?" Edward Wu turned around when he heard the deep voice behind him.

    He stepped back in fear when he saw the person behind him.

    All his life, he has never been afraid of something but this man makes him really nervous.

    If he hadn''t heard Yan Mei called him father he would have never believe it.

    How can such a young and godlike man be her father? This man was the most beautiful man he has ever seen. No to use beautiful to describe him was a sphemy.

    He was simply not human. His presence and temperament made him want to kneel in front of him. For the first time, he realized there are surpreme people on this earth. No, Edward Wu was sure this man was not from here.

    "W-what is beautiful?" He asked as he looked at the man in front of him.

    "Young love. It''s full of hope and happiness." Zheng Ren said with a smile on his face.

    Only a few people can make him respect them and this young man and his daughter''s husband were among the few people.

    A trace of loneliness shed thorough Edward Wu''s eyes.

    "No-no. Don''t be sad or jealous. You will find love too. Very soon you would. And like dynamite she would explode your dark, lonely world."

    Zheng Ren said with his voice full of certainty.

    Edward Wu didn''t know why but he believed Zheng Ren.

    He felt like the man knew everything and could see through everything.

    After he picked up Yan Mei from the floor, he ced her on the bed and went back to the room where Lei Zhao was.

    A doctor rushed out of the room and came to look after Yan Mei. The other doctors alsoe out with no knowledge of what happened inside.

    All they remember was that they operated on Lei Zhao but the poison spread to his heart killing him.

    Edward Wu just squinted his eyes when he heard the doctors but he said nothing. He had entered the room so he saw what Yan Mei had done to them.

    Edward Wu waited for half an hourter before he saw Zheng Rening out of the room. His skin was pale and there were sweats on his face.

    Edward Wu wanted to ask if he was okay but seeing Lei Zhao behind the man made his swallow his words.

    His dead friend was suddenly awake and Edward Wu knew the man had something to do with it.

    At first, Edward Wu was afraid that Lei Zhao would suffer memory loss or head concussion so he ordered the doctors to do test on him.

    Lei Zhao had argue at first but seeing his persistent look he had agreed.

    Fortunately all the test results were positive and there was nothing wrong.

    "W-who are you?" Edward Wu asked at he looked at Zheng Ren. He realized he couldn''t look at the man in the eyes no matter how much he tries.

    "Oh I''m just a father who would do anything for his daughter." Zheng Ren chortle.

    Edward Wu frowned but said nothing.

    "I''m the devil. Some call me Satan, Lucifer,demon etc. I have lot of names to be honest."

    Zheng Ren said nonchntly as he shrugged.

    "R-really?" Edward Wu eyes widened in horror and he stepped back. A shiver run along his spine.

    Zheng Ren threw his head back and bust out intoughter when he saw Edward Wu''s look on his face.

    Zheng Ren strode towards him, and bend his head looking straight into Edward Wu''s eyes.

    "You believe in those devil''s tale they tell children?" He chuckled and shook his head.

    "Nice to meet you. I hope we meet again."

    And then he was gone.

    Edward Wu turned around and looked around but he saw no one around.

    He let out the breath he was holding and rubbed his temples.

    The moment Zheng Ren appeared in his office he started coughing blood.

    His face paled and he held his stomach in pain.

    "Master, are you okay?!" His assistant asked as he walked towards him.

    "Protect her." Zheng Ren''sst word before he copsed.

    Every magic has a price, they say. And for the love for his daughter, he paid a deadly one.

 Chapter 130 Spank me

    <h4>Chapter 130 Spank me</h4>

    Author''s Note: I wanna stay with you even when we are ghost because you were always there for me when I needed you the most.

    -James Arthur( say you won''t let go)

    Yan Mei rested her head on Lei Zhao''s chest listening to his heartbeat as he leaned on the bed board.

    Yan Mei was grateful to have him back. Relieved that the love of her life, Lei Zhao was now by her side.

    Yan Mei didn''t want to experience the soul crushing pain again. The pain and fear of not seeing Lei Zhao again.

    To not have him, kiss her good morning and tell her she is beautiful every day. The heart wrenching emptiness that had consumed her earlier nearly drove her mad.

    Lei Zhao stroked her hair as they enjoyed this luxurious moments together. When you escaped death, every second bes a luxury that money can''t buy.

    Having his wife in his arms,, he was jolted by the feeling ofpleteness and contentment that engulfed his soul.

    Yan Mei smiled at the closeness- the warmth radiating from his body and the unchanged scent of him.

    "You won''t leave again Lei Zhao, I don''t think I can live without you." Yan Mei mumbled as tears started to pool at the back of her eyes.

    "No matter the obstacles we faced you can''t leave me again."

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh as his eyes shed a distress smile before his mouth did as he pressed his chin on top of her head.

    "Never again." He promised again for the second time.

    "Good." Yan Mei said as she drummed her fingers lightly on his chest.

    "You promised me you woulde back safely but you didn''t. What do you think should be your punishment?"

    Yan Mei asked as a mischievous glint passed through her eyes.

    "I know." Lei Zhao said quietly catching her fingers and slipping them between his own.

    "Hm..I can be your ve for six months. You can be on top and have absolute control for three months. Or you can spank me."

    Lei Zhao said as he chuckled. Yan Mei''s lips twitched when she heard him.

    Edward Wu who came to check up on them rolled his eyes when he heard Lei Zhao''s shameless words.

    ''Stupid.'' he insulted his friend in his head as he closed the door.

    With Lei Zhao''s shamelessness he knew this couple will surely do the deed so he ordered his bodyguard to stand far away from the door but they should still keep an eye on the door.

    Edward Wu removed his phone from his pocket as he contemted on what to tell his friends.

    He knew today''s event was beyond human understanding and he didn''t want to risk leaking the news.

    All he told the doctors to exin Lei Zhao suddenly waking up is that the poison was an ancient poison which stops someone''s heart from beating for a while that''s why they assumed Lei Zhao was dead.

    Even though the doctors didn''t believe him they didn''t have the courage or proof to question Edward Wu so they nodded and just did the check up on Lei Zhao.

    What surprised the doctors even more was that there was nothing wrong with Lei Zhao''s body. No, his body seemed to be more healthy than the average human person.

    Edward Wu just looked at the test reports and stared at his friend in a daze. Lei Zhao also looked at his test results in aplete haze.

    He knew he was alive thanks to his father-inw so he didn''t ask any further questions.

    Somethings are better left unsaid. Edward Wu dialed Jun Mo''s and then Henry Liu''s number calling both in a conference call.

    On a single ring the call was answered.

    "Is Lei Zhao okay?" They both asked at the same time. Paned in their tone.

    "Hmm." Edward Wu said.

    "Where is he? Is he ina? Did he suffer any head injury?"

    Jun Mo asked since he is the doctor of the group.

    "No. He is fine. Nothing is wrong with him."

    Jun Mo frowned when he heard Edward Wu, as a doctor he was finding it difficult to believe that someone who suffered from a car ident waspletely unharmed.

    "Where is he? Let''s see him"

    Edward Wu snorted, " He is making little Zhao with his wife."

    Henry Liu and Jun Mo both frowned at his words

    .

    "Huh, are you sure he is alright?" Jun Mo asked with uncertainty.

    "Yes he is fine. Once hees out of the room I will do video call so that you can see him"

    "Okay, should I inform Auntie?"

    Edward Wu furrowed his brows.

    "No,if you tell her she woulde here. We will leave immediately the moment Lei Zhaoes from the room."

    "Okay, we will be waiting for you then."

    They said and hung up the call.

    -----

    Yan Mei tightened her fingers around Lei Zhao. Suddenly her brows knitted together.

    "What happened Lei Zhao? How did you get into an ident? Who do I have to kill?"

    Yan Mei asked as the temperature in the room dropped. The fact that someone had hurt the man she loves sent her blood boiling.

    Lei Zhao stroked her head gently when he felt the killing intent from her.

    A murderous glint passed through Lei Zhao''s eyes but he controlled it.

    He wanted to spend this moment with his wife not to think about anything.

    "Wifey..I will tell youter, but now I just want to enjoy this moment with you."

    Lei Zhao said as he pressed a kiss on the tip of her nose.

    He hovered on her and bent down kissing her.

    The kiss was gentle yet contained many emotions.

    Lei Zhao pulled away from the kiss.

    "I was so afraid I wouldn''t see you again." Lei Zhao whispered as he looked into her eyes.

    His eyes burned with desire and need for her.

    His fingers pushed fragments of her hair away from her face and tucked it gently behind her ears.

    "I need you, Wifey."

 Chapter 131 Need you

    <h4>Chapter 131 Need you</h4>

    Yan Mei looked at the desire in his eyes and she blushed.

    Lei Zhao sucked in a harsh breath when her tongue quickly glided over her bottom lip and her mouth slowly curved up into a seductively knowing smile.

    "Wifey...I need you." Lei Zhao said huskily.

    "All right," she agreed.

    Lei Zhao lowered his head to hers and captured her lips in a slow, gentle kiss. Tenderly, he moved his mouth on top of hers, gently exploring its depths with his tongue.

    Finally breaking the kiss, Lei Zhao stared passionately down at her. He brushed her hair back over her right shoulder and lowered his head to nuzzle the side of her neck.

    Lei Zhao kissed her right ear, using the tip of his tongue to gently caress the delicate area behind the lobe. He drew the lobe into his mouth.

    .

    Lei Zhao kissed her shoulders as he peeled her hospital gown from her body, and kissed between her shoulders.

    He kissed the swell of her breasts, gently cupping them. He took her nipple between his lips and sucked. Yan Mei shuddered, as the pleasure of it shot through her, and a deep throb began inside her.

    Lei Zhao flicked the nipple with his tongue, causing Yan Mei to squirm. Her reaction encouraged him to move to the other breast, licking and kissing it while fondling the other.

    He twisted and rolled her nipple between his fingers making her body quiver with desire.

    Lei Zhao trailed kissed in between her breast making her moan and writhed underneath him.

    He inhaled deeply to steady his eagerness as he kissed lower, brushing her stomach with his lips.

    Yan Mei gasped as he kissed lower still, realizing where he was headed.

    Reaching around her, he removed her panties.

    Lei Zhao cupped her buttocks in his hands, and pulled her body to his open mouth. He ced a trail of wet, sucking kisses on her belly, before moving to do the same to first her right then her left thigh.

    He gently spread her legs, nuzzling against her curly hair, the sound that escaped her lips causing him to nearly lose control.

    He parted her swollen lips ever so slightly, licking and kissing the core of her femininity, pleasuring her. Lei Zhao grunted in satisfaction as he ate her out.

    His tongue flicked her clit making her moan out.

    "Lei Zhao!" A satisfaction smirk made it''s way on his face as he sucked on her clit.

    A rush of excitement coursed through him as she moaned and cried out his name.

    Yan Mei looked down at her body and met his eyes. Lei Zhao kept the eye contact as his tongue licked in between her folds.

    "Hhm.." A strong surge of orgasm began to slowly build in her stomach as he inserted two fingers inside her.

    He stretched her slowly with his fingers as Yan Mei tugged his hair. Lei Zhao started moving his fingers inside her while sucking on her clit.

    Yan Mei felt like her clit was going to explode.

    Keeping his fingers still inside her, he moved his head to her breasts moving his mouth from one swollen nipple to the other.

    "Lei ¡­ Zhao¡­" Yan Mei whispered pleadingly.

    "You are so beautiful" he said, his voice ragged with passion,

    "You are absolutely lovely and you''re mine." He dered as increased the pace of his fingers and brought his mouth to her core again.

    A shudder went through Yan Mei''s entire body.

    Her fingers gripped the sheets as her hips bucked uncontrobly against his mouth as she orgasmed.

    Yours!" Yan Mei cried out.

    "I can eat you the whole day. You taste so sweet."

    Lei Zhao smiled softly at her as he licked her clean. Yan Mei''s body shook and shivered with the amazing feeling.

    "I love you Wifey." Lei Zhao said as he looked up at her.

    His mouth imed hers then, and his hands too, stroking and teasing, her breasts, her bottom, her belly, stoking the fire inside her, tightening the knot inside her, making her moan and clutch at him.

    Gently breaking the kiss, he pulled back slightly to look in her eyes.

    The raw emotion in his stare was electrifying. She felt herself hold her breath as he moved his hands to her face, his palms cupping her cheeks, his thumbs brushing lightly over her eyes and brows.

    Lei Zhao removed the shirt he had put on earlier after taking a shower and unzipped his trousers.

    Yan Mei eyes scrutinized his body and she swallowed. She saw his hard cock bulging and she licked her lips. Her eyes gleaming with desire.

    Yan Mei reached forward and grabbed Lei Zhao''s cock but Lei Zhao chuckled and shook his head.

    "Not today, Wifey." Yan Mei pouted but said nothing.

    Lei Zhao positioned his cock against her.

    He held her hand and guided it to his erection. Yan Mei stroked him making him groan in pleasure.

    "I.. it''s okay wife or I will just cum from your hands."

    Lei Zhao said as he stopped her movement. The tip of his erection pressed against her entrance making her spread her legs.

    Lei Zhao slide inside while looking at her.

    "You feel so good Wifey." Lei Zhao groaned in pleasure.

    Yan Mei tightened her muscles around him making him gasp.

    Lei Zhao started moving inside her, his hands held her waist as he pounded in her.

    "Faster!" Yan Mei moaned.

    Lei Zhao increased his pace as he thrust faster into her.

    He groaned out loud.

    Because Yan Mei was afraid of his burns she gripped the sheets inside of his shoulders.

    Suddenly Lei Zhao held her tight and sat up with her, swinging his legs off the bed, Yan Mei now in hisp while still buried inside her. He pounded in her, deeper, harder and faster.

    With his hands around her back, supporting her, he kissed the nape of her neck and the valley between her breasts, then he licked his way to each breast. He kissed and nipped at each nipple, biting very gently then licking soothingly.

    He increased his pace making Yan Mei threw her head back and moaned, her reaction causing Lei Zhao to shiver with desire.

    His fingers reached to touch her sensitive bud and caressed it sending her over the edge.

    Yan Mei cried as she climax.

    "Lei Zhao!"

    Lei Zhao grunted as he followed her spilling inside her.

 Chapter 132 Go home.

    <h4>Chapter 132 Go home.</h4>

    Lei Zhaoid beside her, nuzzling in the crook of her neck as they both breathed rapidly.

    They stayed like this for a few minutes, enjoying the peaceful silence between them.

    Lei Zhao''s body rxed, and his breath calmed down.

    "Wifey,are you okay?" He asked softly.

    "Yeah, I-" Suddenly her stomach rumbled loudly interrupting her.

    Lei Zhao chuckled making her face red with embarrassment.

    "I will go find something for you to eat." Lei Zhao said as he got down from the bed.

    He picked his trousers from the floor and put it on.

    "Wait for me okay?"

    Yan Mei scrunched her face and shook her head.

    "No. I want to go with you." Yan Mei pouted.

    "I don''t want to be alone here." Yan Mei whined but the actual truth was that she was afraid he wouldn''te back.

    What if the moment he leaves everything turns out to be false.

    Lei Zhao saw the fear in her eyes and he gave up.

    "Okay, let me find you clothes. Edward will have some here."

    Lei Zhao said as he walked towards the wardrobe in the room.

    Yan Mei furrowed her brows when she saw Lei Zhao removed a T-shirt and pants from the wardrobe.

    "Here." Lei Zhao gave it to her but she just wrinkled her nose.

    "I don''t want to wear another man''s clothes." Yan Meiined.

    Lei Zhao chortle, "Wifey..it''s mine. This room is mine. Edward Wu bought this mansion and allocated rooms for us. In case wee to New York. " Lei Zhao exined.

    "Oh." Yan Mei said awkwardly.

    "Yeah,also it''s new since I rarelye here. Most of the clothes are new."

    Yan Mei nodded and took the shirt and trousers. After she was done wearing it, Lei Zhao came to her side and lifted her into his arms, effortlessly.

    "I can walk. Also, you just woke up, you shouldn''t do this. What about your back injuries?" Yan Mei asked worriedly.

    "Don''t worry Wifey...your husband isn''t that weak. Also I like having you in my arms."

    Yan Mei smiled and nestled in his arms.

    Lei Zhao gently brought her down, heading to the kitchen.

    "Lei Zhao?" Yan Mei suddenly called out.

    "Hmm?"

    "Don''t you think the bodyguards are giving us weird looks? Do you think they know¡­"

    "Yes, but it''s normal between marriage couples don''t be shy."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes and ignored him.

    "What would you like to eat?" Lei Zhao asked as he set her down on one of the bar stools

    "I will ask the chef to prepare food for you."

    "Anything as long as you will feed me." Yan Mei said.

    "Sir, Madam. Can I help you with anything?"

    They both turned to find an old man standing behind them, waiting patiently.

    "Yes, please make porridge for my wife."

    Lei Zhao smiled politely at the man.

    "Okay, Sir."

    ****

    Twenty minutester, the chef brought them the food.

    Lei Zhao removed the lid, and picked up the spoon.

    He blew gently on the hot porridge and smiled softly at Yan Mei.

    "Open your mouth."

    Yan Mei opened her mouth and like a kid ate all the porridge Lei Zhao fed her. In a blink of an eye, the bottom of the bowl could be seen.

    Lei Zhao ruffled her head, "Good girl. Do you want to eat again?" Lei Zhao asked softly.

    Yan Mei blinked and nodded.

    "Hmm"

    Lei Zhao heard about the ruckus his wife had made when she heard he was dead. He was distress.

    Lei Zhao knew because of him, his wife revealed her secrets to people. In order to save him, she had risked her life.

    If news get out of the things his wife can do, Lei Zhao knew powerful people wille for his wife.

    People are always afraid of the unknown and they won''t rest until they get rid of it.

    Fortunately it was Edward Wu who witnessed everything. He is the only one who he can trust to protect his wife and keep everything a secret.

    Lei Zhao picked up the bowl the chef gave and handed a spoonful to her mouth. Yan Mei opened her mouth slightly.

    Before she can swallow, Lei Zhao captured her mouth in a kiss.

    Yan Mei gasped since she was caught off guard.

    Lei Zhao pulled away and smirked at her.

    "Wifey, the porridge is very delicious."

    Yan Mei blushed and red at him. Before she couldin, Lei Zhao brought another full spoon to her mouth.

    Yan Mei opened her mouth then Lei Zhao captured her lips again. This continued until the second bowl was finished.

    Half entered Lei Zhao''s stomach and the other in Yan Mei''s stomach.

    Edward Wu who came to see this rolled his eyes.

    "Can''t you keep your hands from each other. You don''t have to run this gross acts in her face."

    His disgusted voice sounded behind them. Lei Zhao turned around and red at him.

    "You''re just jealous. Lonely ass." Lei Zhao retorted.

    "Whatever." Edward Wu muttered under his

    breath.

    "Hello, Miss Yan."

    Yan Mei turned around.

    "Hello, Mr.Wu"

    "d to see you back on your feet." Edward Wu said before looking at Lei Zhao.

    "Hurry up and let''s go. Auntie is in a bad shape."

    Lei Zhao stiffened when he heard Edward Wu.

    "My mother? What happened to her?" He asked with his voice thick with fear.

    "Let''s just say she didn''t take the news of your ident well."

    Edward Wu said as he rubbed the back of his neck.

    "Why did you tell her? You should have kept it a secret."

    Edward Wu heaved a sigh.

    "Your mother was the one who called me. She said she is afraid something has happened to you so we should look for you. Do you think we could have lied to her?"

    Lei Zhao scrunched his face in worry.

    Yan Mei ced aforting hand on his shoulders.

    "Don''t worry, I''m sure Auntie would be fine."

    Lei Zhao squeezed out a smile.

    "Yeah. Let''s go home."

    Author''s Note

    Dear readers, author is experiencing writer''s block hehe I don''t even know what I''m writing. The next chapter will bete but I will surely update. Sorry for the inconveniences.

 Chapter 133 Mom

    <h4>Chapter 133 Mom</h4>

    "Lei Xiao Tong don''t be stubborn, if our son was here do you think he would be happy that you''re starving yourself?"

    Mr.Lei coaxed his wife who hadn''t eaten or spoken a word the moment she woke up.

    She was just staring at the door as if she was waiting for someone. He didn''t want to break his wife''s heart by telling her that their son wasn''ting back.

    He had died and there is no way to bring the dead back unless you sell your soul to the devil but how can they do that when they can''t even find his body.

    Mr. Lei looked at the bowl of soup and heaved a sigh. He didn''t know what to say or what to do to get his wife to eat.

    Mr. Lei put the bowl down on the table and stared at the ceilings.

    "Do you remember the day you gave birth to Lei Zhao? You were disappointed at first because you wanted a daughter."

    Mr. Lei lips stretched into a sad smile.

    "You refused to even hold him but the moment you did. I still remember the smile on your face.

    You said our son was special. From then, you doted on him."

    Lei Xiao Tong looked at his husband for the first time since she woke up.

    "I remember how you would argue with other parents when Lei Zhao gets into a fight. And me them for not raising their kids well.

    You little Zhao was a saint who did nothing wrong in your eyes."

    Mr. Lei snorted, "At times I was jealous of my son. He has stolen my wife''s love and attention from me."

    Lei Xiao Tong''s lips stretched into a sad smile when she heard her husband.

    "Do you remember the night you got sick? Lei Zhao sat by side all night. He was eight at that time. But he never left your side. I came back from a business trip to see him taking care of you.

    At that time I realized why you love your son so much."

    Mr. Lei eyes glinted with sadness.

    "Mummy, you have to eat so that you get well soon. If you die or something happens to you little Zhao would be lonely and sad.

    Do you want little Zhao to be sad? So eat, a little just for me. Our son said as he smiled softly at you. Then you ate all the porridge he fed you.

    Do you remember after he finished feeding you the promise you made him?

    He wiped your lips and came to sleep beside you.

    Mummy, promise me that no matter how sick you''re. You''re going to eat. Or else I''m going to be sad.Food is so delicious why don''t you want to eat? Also eating you get the energy so that you can get well soon. Don''t you want to teach me how to y the piano?"

    A great sob escaped Lei Xiao Tong, and she covered her face with shaking hands.

    "W-why is life so unfair?" Lei Xiao Tong croaked.

    "I can''t imagine life without him. I will wake up every day and realized my little Zhao wouldn''t be around anymore. He isn''t going to be here when I grow old. First it was Lei Zheng then Lei Zhao both of them died in a car ident without a body. Is this a curse?"

    Lei Xiao Tong eyes dripped with tears. She felt herself copsing. Mr. Lei pulled her into his arms as she sobbed into his chest.

    He just held her as she cried. Mr. Lei''s emotions were walled off behind a mask of coping. He knew he had to be strong for his wife.

    His darkshes brimmed heavy with unshed tears. His hands clenched into a shaking fists, in desperate battle against the grief.

    His wife''s noisy sobs echoed through the room shattering his cracked heart.

    Lei Xiao Tong suddenly pulled away and wiped her tears.

    She chuckled humorlessly, "Lei Zhao will say I look ugly with now."

    Mr. Lei looked at his wife trying to act strong and felt his heart aching more.

    "Where is the soup? I promised little Zhao to eat no matter what happens. I-I need to eat, or my son will scold me when I meet him again in Heaven."

    Lei Xiao Tong rambled as she looked at her husband.

    Mr. Lei lips twisted into a forced smile and picked the soup on the table.

    He took a spoonful and brought to his wife''s lips.

    Lei Xiao Tong opened her mouth and took the soup. The moment she did more tears fell from her eyes.

    "Why are you crying? Do you want to get wrinkles and look old?"

    Suddenly an amused voice sounded in the room.

    The soup Mr.Lei was holding fell on the floor.

    "Easy old man."

    Mr. Lei''s hands trembled as he pointed at the figure leaning on the door.

    "You look like you have seen a ghost, dad." Lei Zhao chortled as he strode towards his parents.

    He pulled his father into a hug. The emotions Mr. Lei had hidden in his facade suddenly broke up.

    A lone tear traced down his cheek, falling on Lei Zhao''s shirt.

    "Oh, the famous cold hearted CEO just shed a tear."

    Lei Zhao joked trying to lightened the atmosphere. Mr. Lei''s lips twisted into a smile then he hit Lei Zhao.

    "You stinky kid, making your mother cry. Go and apologize to her. Mr. Lei said as he winked at Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao ran to his mother on the bed and hide behind her.

    "Mom save me, he is scary."

    Mr. Lei hit Lei Zhao rapidly but Lei Xiao Tong said nothing she just sat in daze.

    If it was a normal day she would have scolded her husband for beating his precious son but not today.

    Mr.Lei stopped and looked at his son. Lei Zhao awkwardly came down from the bed and crouched down in front of his mother.

    "Mom¡­"

    Just one word but it broke her down. The painful emotion mmed thro

 Chapter 134 Beautiful Monster.

    <h4>Chapter 134 Beautiful Monster.</h4>

    Author''s Note: Yes you''re a monster, a beautiful monster and you''re mine. My beautiful monster.

    -Lei Zhao

    Lei Xiao Tong slowly looked at Lei Zhao''s face. She raised her shaky hands and brought it to Lei Zhao''s face cupping his cheek.

    Lei Zhao smiled and leaned into his mother''s palms.

    "Mom.."

    Hearing her son''s voice, Lei Xiao Tong''s stomach and throat tightened.

    Fear grabbed unto Lei Xiao Tong. She wanted to ask how, why? But she couldn''t.

    More tears spilled began to spill from her helpless eyes but the tears weren''t for the death of her son. No, it was for the feeling of being wrong.

    Lei Xiao Tong felt like fate was ying with her. She could still feel the emptiness in her heart.

    The sheer of nothingness that coursed through her soul and the helpless feeling like the weight of the world was on her heart.

    As a mother who had lost both of her sons the numbness that washed over her made her lips trembled until she bit them.

    "Please-say something." Lei Zhao began to panic when he saw his mother just looking at him without saying anything.

    Lei Zhao turned to look at his father for help.

    "Honey, see our son. He is alive not dead." Mr. Lei said softly as he ced a hand on his wife''s shoulder.

    "Mom-are you okay?" Lei Zhao asked as worry etched in his voice.

    Lei Xiao Tong nodded and finally a smile spilled from her lips.

    "My Little Zhao is really alive." She said as she turned to look at her husband standing beside her.

    "Yes, yes. Your Little Zhao is alive. How can I die? I still haven''t taken you for a walk along the beach when you get old."

    Lei Zhao smiled as she said. Lei Xiao Tong cried andughed at once when she heard him.

    Tears of joy of having her son back mingled with tears of relief of seeing him again.

    Lei Xiao Tong turned her head squarely towards her husband and grasped his hands on her shoulder.

    Lei Zhao wiped the tears under his mother''s eyes and nted a kiss on her cheeks.

    "Sorry Mom. I made you worried." Lei Zhao mumbled.

    "You''re back that''s the most important thing. Where is Yan Mei? You should contact her, I''m sure she must be worried about not hearing from you."

    Lei Xiao Tong said anxiously.

    "She is here Mom. Look."

    Lei Zhao said as he pointed at the door. Yan Mei was awkwardly standing there as she fidgeted.

    She felt like she was intruding on their happy reunion.

    "Mom.." she squeezed out a smile awkwardly.

    Lei Xiao Tong frowned when she saw Yan Mei''s puffy eyes. She felt like Yan Mei had lost weight

    "XiaoMei, what happened to you? Come here let mom look at you."

    Yan Mei walked inside the room and greeted Mr. Lei.

    "Dad.."

    Mr. Lei nodded and smiled softly at her.

    Lei Zhao stood up from the floor and sat beside his mother on the bed.

    "XiaoMei are you okay? Why is your eyes puffy?"

    Lei Xiao Tong asked with concern in her tone.

    "I''m fine Mom. It just¡­"

    Yan Mei trailed off. She didn''t want to tell Lei Xiao Tong that Lei Zhao died and she nearly killed a team of doctors due to her rage.

    "Were you scared that something had happened to Lei Zhao?"

    Lei Xiao Tong asked.

    Yan Mei nodded, "Yeah, he wasn''t picking my calls and I couldn''t reach him. I thought something had happened to him. But fortunately he is okay."

    Yan Mei said as she looked at Lei Zhao who was ardently staring at her.

    Lei Xiao Tong nodded, "Lei Zhao you''re now back. Go home with Yan Mei and rest. Tomorrow we will talk."

    Even though Lei Xiao Tong wanted to talk to his son, she knew the young couple needed time to talk.

    Lei Xiao Tong was afraid Yan Mei would misunderstand her son. So she wanted them to go home so that they could talk.

    She held Lei Zhao''s hand and squeezed it gently.

    "Remember to coax XiaoMei. A wife goes through a great agony when she doesn''t hear from her husband for days. Especially when she is afraid that something happened to him".

    She whispered in his son''s ears before turning to smile at Yan Mei.

    Lei Zhao nodded and stood up.

    "Mom, I will see you tomorrow."

    "Alright. Remember what I told you."

    Lei Zhao nodded, said goodbye to his father and walked out the room with Yan Mei.

    Lei Zhao came downstairs to meet Jun Mo and Henry Liu standing in the living room. Because he was in a hurry to see his mother he didn''t pay attention to his friends when they reached the house.

    He rushed to his parents room, the moment he got down from the car.

    Lei Zhao looked at his elegant friends whose eyes were puffy and had dark circles and he raised his eyebrows.

    "What happened to you? You look awful."

    Edward Wu rolled his eyes and leaned against the sofa.

    "Lei Zhao." Henry Liu said as he rushed into Lei Zhao''s arms.

    "I was so afraid...I thought..I wouldn''t see you again."

    Henry Liu said as tears ran down his cheeks. Lei Zhao squinted his eyes when he saw the tears in his friend''s eyes.

    "You''re crying because you thought I was dead?"

    Lei Zhao asked awkwardly.

    Henry Liu nodded, "Yes."

    "Oh," Lei Zhao turned to look at Edward Wu who just shrugged at him.

    "He was pretty messed up when he got the news about your ident." Edward Wu said as he stared at Yan Mei standing beside Lei Zhao.

    Feeling his eyes on her, Yan Mei looked at him. She saw the questions and curiosity in his eyes but she just ignored him.

    Lei Zhao patted his shoulder..

    "I''m here now, don''t worry."

    Henry Liu nodded and wiped his tears.

    Lei Zhao was touched by his friends. Never in his wildest dreams did he think Henry Liu will cry if something happens to him. Or Edward Wu who was always calm will lose his cool or Jun Mo will take care of his wife.

    He smiled at his friends, "I will like to catch up but my wife is tired. I will see you guyster."

    Jun Mo frowned, "Lei Zhao are you really okay? Don''t you have any headaches or feel any pain? Did the doctors perform tests on you?"

    Jun Mo asked worriedly. As a western doctor, he couldn''t believe that his friend was totally fine.

    "Yeah Doc. I''m fine. Just burns at my back but I will live."

    Lei Zhao said as he heaved a sigh.

    Jun Mo knitted his brows but he nodded at his friends.

    "I will ask grandfather to give you medicine so that no scars are left at your back."

    Lei Zhao nodded, "Alright."

    "Thank you guys for everything."

    Edward Wu rolled his eyes and stood up.

    "Don''t make me waste my time again. If you can''t protect yourself go back to the military for training or I can let you join my Mafia."

    "Yeah, I love you too." Lei Zhao retorted at his friend.

    Edward Wu wrinkled his nose in disgust and turned to look at Yan Mei.

    The temperature dropped at his words and Lei Zhao turned to his wife who was ring at him.

    "Wifey,you know I''m just joking. How can I love this ugly man."

    Lei Zhao said as he pulled his wife in his arms.

    Edward Wu and Jun Mo shook their heads.

    "Let me take you guys home before you poison us with your shamelessness."

    Edward Wu said as he frowned at them.

    ----------

    Yan Mei looked at the time and realized it''s a quarter past seven o''clock pm. She dialed her grandfather''s number the moment they got home.

    She had left abruptly, she knew her grandfather would be worried about her.

    On a single ring the call was picked up by the old man.

    "Grandpa," Yan Mei greeted the moment the call was picked up.

    Grandpa coughed before he replied her.

    "Yan Mei where are you? Are you okay? You said you were going to your inws but you never came back or called me. Is your husband okay?"

    Grandpa Yan asked a series of questions before taking a deep breath.

    Hearing her grandfather''s distressed voice Yan Mei felt a pang in her heart.

    "I''m fine, Grandpa. Lei Zhao is also fine. I came back to our house with him."

    Yan Mei exined to the old man

    "That''s good. As long as you''re okay. Remember to take care of yourself."

    "Alright Grandpa. See you tomorrow."

    "Okay."

    Yan Mei hung up the phone and rubbed her temples.

    Lei Zhao grabbed her shoulders and buried his head into her neck. He breathed her in.

    "Wifey, are you okay? Do you have a headache?"

    Lei Zhao whispered into her ears.

    "Yeah, I''m fine. Just it had been a couple of rough hours. " Yan Mei chuckled as she said.

    "Won''t you ask me how I found you? Why my father looks young or how he was able to bring you back? Don''t you want to know?"

    Lei Zhao shook his head, "No. I know you have your reasons for hiding all of this. Because of me you revealed your secrets. Sorry Wifey."

    Lei Zhao said as he turned her around.

    Yan Mei stared into his eyes, "Aren''t you,.... aren''t you afraid of me? I''m a monster."

    Lei Zhao chuckled, "Yes you''re a monster but you''re a beautiful monster. And you''re mine."

    Lei Zhao flickered her nose, "My beautiful monster." He whispered against her lips.

 Chapter 135 Possessive wife

    <h4>Chapter 135 Possessive wife</h4>

    Keep calm

    "Thank you Wifey." Lei Zhao mumbled his breath fanning on her face. His fingers trailed her face from her forehead, to the tip of her nose, to her soft lips.

    "You saved me."

    "No, my father saved you." Yan Mei refuted, shaking her head.

    "And why did he save me?" Lei Zhao asked.

    "Because..you are the man his daughter is madly in love with." Yan Mei chuckled as she said.

    "And I''m madder about you." Lei Zhao grinned.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes at him. But a soft smile tugged at her lips.

    "Ever since I saw you in that red suit at the club. I have been madder about you. I can''t get you out of my mind."

    Yan Mei gazed at him in a daze, her heart mming hard in her chest. Only this man makes her feel a rush of so many emotions at once.

    "Hmm. That''s good then. It seems I''m not the only mad person in this rtionship."

    Yan Mei whispered making the grin on Lei Zhao''s lips stretched wider.

    "Let''s take a bath?" Lei Zhao whispered as he nuzzled in her neck.

    "Hmm, but no tricks." Yan Mei said putting on a stern face.

    "I can''t promise anything." Lei Zhao chuckled.

    "But they have bandaged your burns it can''t touch water." Yan Mei said.

    "Yeah...I forgot. It seems you have to help me take a bath then."

    Yan Mei let out a long, exhausted sigh.

    "Okay, I will go prepare. Wait for me at the bathroom."

    Yan Mei said as she walked out of the room.

    Few minutester , she came back holding a stool.

    "This will do. Sit on it." Yan Mei said as she ced the wooden stool she had found in the middle of the bathroom.

    Lei Zhao removed his clothes and sat down. Yan Mei hands trailed on his back. Even though t was bandaged and she couldn''t see the wound.

    Her heart couldn''t but ache.

    "Does it hurt?" She asked softly.

    Lei Zhao shook his head, "if it hurts my wife will help me blow on it right?"

    Yan Mei nodded, "Hmm. If I find the person who did this.."

    Lei Zhao pulled her into hisps. A blush coated on Yan Mei''s cheeks when she realized he was totally naked.

    "Wifey..I don''t want you to get your hands dirty. I will find the person who did this and I will make him experience hell on Earth."

    Yan Mei frowned and shook her head, "No. I won''t rest until I have made the person suffer by my own hands."

    Seeing the determined look in her eyes, Lei Zhao knew the pain and fear of loosing him will forever be imprinted in her heart.

    Maybe he should let her vent.

    "Okay, then we will find the person together."

    "Perfect." Yan Mei beamed as a dangerous glint shed in her eyes. She nted a soft kiss on Lei Zhao''s cheeks before standing up.

    "So who helped you to take a bath in New York." Yan Mei asked as she picked a towel and soaked it in the water.

    "Edward Wu." Lei Zhao whispered.

    Yan Mei frowned. Even though he was a guy, he didn''t want other people to touch her husband no matter there gender.

    Seeing the distate on her face, Lei Zhao chortled.

    "Wifey, you are bing possessive each passing day. Don''t te me you''re jealous?"

    "No." Yan Mei quickly retorted.

    Lei Zhao watched as she pressed her lips together in annoyance.

    "Okay, I won''t let anyone touch me again without your permission. How is that?"

    "Good." Yan Mei answered.

    Lei Zhao leaned down and brushed a kiss on the tips of her nose before pressing another against her lips.

    "My possessive wife--- so sexy.". Lei Zhao murmured, a slow smile curving on his mouth.

    Yan Mei smiled back as she began cleaning him.

    Once she finish cleaning his upper body, she began to fidget.

    Yan Mei nced at him and saw the amused sparkle in his eyes.

    "Wifey, hurry." Lei Zhao said with a low chicken. Clearing he was enjoying her awkwardness.

    Yan Mei blushed and turned away. The thought of cleaning in between his thighs made her blush.

    Even though they had been intimate so many times now, she still felt a little awkward without her pleasure to guide her.

    Lei Zhao grinned rakishly. "No need to be shy Wifey. You have seen my little brother so may times now. You even like having it in your mouth why are you shy now?"

    Yan Mei''s blush grew more heated as she took her risk and nced between his legs.

    "Oh, shut up!" She snapped at him trying to hide her embarrassment.

    Lei Zhao''s amusedugh echoed in the bathroom.

    "Why? It''s not like my lying."

    He retorted.

    "I forget how innocent you''re at times." Lei Zhao said quietly.

    Yan Mei squeezed her eyes shut. She knew Lei Zhao was taunting her and there is no way she would let him win this game.

    Opening her eyes, her eyes were filled with a determined look with a gleam of devilirity in it.

    "There is my spitfire."

    Yan Mei helped with the rest of the bath. Through the rest of the bath she took her precious time torturing him. Her hand will intentionally brushed on his cock making Lei Zhao groaned in frustration.

    She will slowly used the towel to trail on the length of his shaft making his little brother twitch.

    "Wifey, you''re cruel."

    Yan Mei shed him an innocent smile.

    "What?" She was currently helping Lei Zhao put on his pajamas.

    Lei Zhao shook his head and sighed helplessly.

    "Nothing."

    Yan Mei shrugged and nodded.

    "Don''t y with fire next time." She teased him.

    "Okay, I will go take a shower wait for me."

    Yan Mei said after she finished helping him wear the pajamas.

    Few minutester Yan Mei came back. She had a towel wrapped around her with water dripping from her hair.

    Lei Zhao swallowed at the sight. He felt his little brother getting excited but he controlled himself.

    Taking a deep breath he frowned.

    "Come here, let me help you dry your hair." He beckoned at Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei walked towards him and gave him the towel.

    Lei Zhao gently wiped her hair with the towel before blowing it with the hair dryer.

    Once he finished, Yan Mei changed into a nightgown and came to sleep beside her.

    Because of his back burns, Lei Zhao had to sleep on his stomach.

    Heid his head on Yan Mei''s chest listening to her heart beat. He didn''t know why his wife was obessed with listening to his heart beat.

    He began to know why. There is something so calming and divine to listen to the person''s you love heart beat. The rhythm of how it beats only for you.

    "Good night, Wifey." Lei Zhao whispered softly.

    "Night night." Yan Mei replied and nted a kiss on his forehead.

    Lei Zhao''s lips curved into a heart warming smile as sleep consumed him.

    He had his wife in his arms again. No, he was in his wife''s arms and he wasn''tining a bit.

    Lei Zhao listened to Yan Mei''s breathing ad knew she has fallen asleep.

    When tommorowes, he would find the person responsible for all of this and when he does¡­

    His lips curved into an evil smirk.

    Yan Mei breathed in Lei Zhao''s scent and she fell quickly fell asleep. This sleep is the most peaceful sleep she had had in days now.

    Without Lei Zhao every night was a sleepless night for her.

    While the couple were peaceful sleeping happy to be in each other''s arms a storm was brewing somewhere.

    -------

    The man looked at his surbodinates who were shaking in front of him and a trace of disdain passed through his eyes.

    "I gave you one task! One! But you failed. How did he survive? No one can survive that posion, but you''re telling me that man survived?!"

    He bellowed angrily. His voice sending shivers along his surbodinates spine. Temor hammered in their chest.

    They knew the boss was angry and when the boss is angry people die.

    The legs gave out as the knelt on the ground.

    "Boss, we were really sure he would die. We-we don''t know how or why he is alive!"

    Our car did enough damage to him and the poison weakend him. There is no way that man is really alive!"

    The leader of the team said confidently. He was confident that Lei Zhao wouldn''t survive.

    He had thrown him into that unknown ce. No human passed there. So Lei Zhao will die and rot there.

    That''s why he didn''t kill the man. He wanted him to slowly die full of helplessness and pain.

    Then the crows will feed on his body but now they are telling him he is alive?!

    How can the man still be alive? Unless he isn''t human. He refuse to believe this!

    and write something...

 Chapter 136 Desperate father

    <h4>Chapter 136 Desperate father</h4>

    Yan Mei followed Lei Zhao inside a room. A white man who looked about forty years old was tied to a chair in the middle of the room.

    Next to him was a long rectangr table. A man in a soldier attire was punching the white guy in the face.

    "Boss!" The man stopped when he saw Lei Zhaoing in.

    Mr.Andre looked up when he heard the man greeting someone calling him Boss.

    He knew from his tone that this man was the person who had him kidnapped. He wasing from work when he was ambushed.

    At first he thought it was the man who poisoned Lei Zhao but the moment he woke up and saw a Chinese man in a soldier attire he guessed it was someone close to Lei Zhao. The person was going to get revenge and that was nothing he could do.

    Mr. Andre swallowed nervously when he saw Lei Zhao standing in front of him. His face was devoid of any emotions.

    "M-mr..Lei."

    Lei Zhao ignored him and picked a chair for his wife.

    "Wifey..sit."

    Yan Mei looked at Lei Zhao and nodded.

    "Are you sad that I''m alive?" Lei Zhao walked towards Mr.Andre. He bent down so that he was face to face with Mr.Andre.

    Mr.Andre looked at Lei Zhao, his breathing was ragged from the assault.

    "No..I am happy that you are alive. I-I was so afraid that something had happened to you. I couldn''t sleep these past few days. My conscience would not let me. I-i''m sorry."

    Lei Zhao raised his eyebrows when he heard him.

    "So you admit you''re the one who poisoned me?"

    Lei Zhao asked.

    "No. I mean yes but it wasn''t me. You know I would never hurt anyone. We have been in business for a long time. I was forced to!"

    Lei Zhao turned to look at Yan Mei. She was just sitting down with her legs crossed together. No one knew what she was thinking.

    "I was going toe to China to personally sign the deal but when I was going to pick my daughter up from school three days before the appointed time a man approached me."

    Mr. Andre said quickly when he saw that Lei Zhao was not taking any action yet.

    "He-he threatened me with my daughter. He said my daughter was with them and if I want her to live I should do exactly what he tells me. I-I was afraid. You know I''m all my daughter has. Her mother died while giving birth to her and my daughter grew up with a congenital heart disease. I-"

    Mr.Andre busted into tears, taking a deep breath he continued,"He told me to tell you toe to New York. I-I didn''t know why. Until he gave me a pen. He said I should make sure you use this pen to sign the contract when we meet.

    I didn''t know what was in the pen but I knew it wasn''t anything good. I-I wanted to warn you but I couldn''t, they would kill my daughter. My daughter, she is all I have. I''m sorry. I''m really sorry."

    Yan Meiughed hysterically when she heard the man.

    "Touching." She said sarcastically

    "So you chose to murder someone''s husband in exchange for your daughter."

    Yan Mei chimed in.

    "I-I I''m not lying. I-i really had no choice. I''m just a desperate father."

    Yan Mei looked at the man in front of her. Usually she tortures her prey. y with them before she inflicts pain on them. But deep in her heart she knew she couldn''t kill this man.

    She didn''t want to deprive a child of a father. Yan Mei knew the man was telling the truth. He was just a father who was protecting her sick daughter..

    But will she let him go? No-no she will make him emotionally feel the pain she felt when she held Lei Zhao''s cold and lifeless body in her arms.

    She will make him scream for death but she wouldn''t give it to him. At times an emotional torture is painful than a physical torture.

    Yan Mei calmy stood up and slowly walked towards Mr.Andre as she hummed a tone.

    Mr.Andre couldn''t help but shiver at the ruthlessness he saw in Yan Mei''s eyes. He knew this woman was deadly.

    Yan Mei''s lips stretched into an evil smile.

    "Do you know what is more painful than death?" Yan Mei asked as she sat on the table in front of the man.

    "I-No. Please.."

    "To hold the cold and lifeless body of the person you love in your hands. You won''t see him again. You won''t hear hisughs. It''s like someone is ripping your heart from your chest. Have you ever experienced that?"

    Mr. Andre widened his eyes in fear as he shook his head aggressively.

    "P-please spare my daughter!"

    Yan Mei squinted her eyes,"Tch,tch why should I spare your daughter? Did you spare my husband?"

    Lei Zhao frowned when he heard Yan Mei. He has seen Mr. Andre''s daughter once and he had to admit he was fond of the little girl.

    He didn''t want his wife to be a heartless person to even kill a child.

    Even though Lei Zhao was a ruthless person he didn''t kill or destroy people without a reason.

    He knew Mr. Andre did what he had to do for his daughter. He would have done the same thing.

    "Do you trust me?". Yan Mei asked Lei Zhao when he saw the worry etched on his face.

    Lei Zhao turned to look at Yan Mei and nodded.

    "Yeah. Always."

    Yan Mei smiled, "Then leave us alone."

    Lei Zhao stiffened for a moment. He didn''t want to leave her alone with Mr. Andre nor did he want his wife to get her hands dirty.

    He was caught in a dilemma.

    "Wifey.. remember everyone has a reason for doing something. Before you judge someone put yourself in their shoes."

    Lei Zhao said this and nted a kiss on her forehead.

    Yan Mei caught the meaning in Lei Zhao''s words but she said nothing.

    They all knew Mr. Andre was just a pawn in all of this. The real danger was out there and they would have to find it.

    "I will be outside if you need me." Lei Zhao said as he walked out of the room with the soldier following behind him.

    Yan Mei turned to look at the CCTV camera installed in the room. She threw a towel that was on the table on the CCTV camera blocking it.

    Lei Zhao who was monitoring Yan Mei in the camera frowned when he saw that she had covered it.

    He wanted to stop her if she goes too extreme. Lei Zhao knew Yan Mei wouldn''t forgive herself if she deprived a child from her father.

    "Let''s get started. Shall we?" Yan Mei said as her lips curved into a sinister smile.

    Ten minutester a heart wrenching wail sounded making Lei Zhao stiffened.

    He opened the door and rushed inside but the scene in front of him just made him speechless.

    "What did you do to him?

    Author''s Note

    Hey guys I just wanted to apologise for not updating. I got sick and couldn''t update. I''m really sorry!

    I feel like I have failed you guys and I kinda hate myself for it.

    We made a deal and I broke mine.

    Please forgive me.

 Chapter 137 Shy

    <h4>Chapter 137 Shy</h4>

    "What did you do to him?" Lei Zhao said as he looked at the grown up man crying like a child.

    He seems to be in immense pain and loss in his world. Yan Mei turned to look at Lei Zhao and shrugged.

    "Nothing, I just let him taste how it feels to hold your loved one cold and lifeless body in your hands.

    Lei Zhao scrunched his face in confusion. The man''s cries and wails were just heartbreaking.

    He was sitting on the floor as his tears raced down his cheeks. Based on the incoherent words he was saying, Lei Zhao knew he was crying for his daughter.

    "He is just hallucinating. He would be fine."

    Yan Mei said when he saw the confused frown on his face.

    "Okay. Based on his words, it seems someone is behind all of this."

    Yan Mei nodded, "Yes. Please be careful from nowards. I can afford to lose you again."

    Yan Mei said softly. Lei Zhao''s lips stretched into a helpless smile and nodded.

    "Alright. I will."

    Yan Mei nodded and turned to look at Mr. Andre.

    "What will you do with him?" Yan Mei asked Lei Zhao quietly.

    "Actually nothing. I''m fond of his daughter and I can''t bring myself to hurt him. I would have done the same thing if I was in his shoe."

    Yan Mei scoffed when she heard him."Aren''t you supposed to be ruthless as the rumors say?"

    Lei Zhao chuckled and ruffled his wife''s hair.

    "I am. But I don''t go around killing innocent people or destroying people because I''m bored. Only those who deserve it."

    Yan Mei frowned but said nothing

    .

    "Let''s go. Mom is waiting for us." Lei Zhao said.

    "Alright "

    ********

    When they arrived, Lei Xiao Tong was in the kitchen so Yan Mei went there to help her.

    "Mom." Yan Mei greeted her once she entered.

    Lei Xiao Tong smiled affectionately at her.

    "How are you?" She asked as she scrutinized Yan Mei. Her brows bumped into a worried frown. She made a mental note to tell his son to take care of his wife.

    "I''m fine Mom."

    Lei Xiao Tong nodded,"Do you know how to wrap dumplings?"

    Yan Mei blushed and shook her head awkwardly.

    Lei Xiao Tong chuckled when she saw her awkwardness.

    "Don''t worry. I will teach you."

    Yan Mei nodded and went to wash her hands at the sink.

    Once she finished, Lei Xiao Tong started teaching her.

    Since it was her first time, Yan Mei was clumsy and couldn''t do it. But Lei Xiao Tong justughed and taught her patiently.

    After some minutes, Yan Mei gradually was able to wrap one.

    Lei Xiao Tong looked at the ugly dumpling and her lips twitched but she justplimented Yan Mei.

    "My daughter-inw is really smart eh."

    Yan Mei looked at the ugly dumpling and she blushed in embarrassment at thepliment.

    She knew Lei Xiao Tong didn''t want her to feel bad.

    "So how is work? I know because of Lei Zhao you must have been worried."

    Lei Xiao Tong asked as Yan Mei started wrapping another dumpling by herself.

    "It''s good. I''m about tounch a new collection." Yan Mei smiled as she said.

    Lei Xiao Tong''s eyes lit up when she heard Yan Mei and she nodded.

    "That''s good. I believe in your ability. This collection would be a hit!"

    Lei Xiao Tong said with a proud smile on her face.

    Yan Mei nodded and smiled, "Thanks mom."

    Ying Sheng was bored so she decided to visit her aunt. When she reached her aunt''s house, she saw Lei Zhao standing in front of his car.

    He seemed to be talking to someone on the phone.

    She walked slowly behind Lei Zhao and decided to scare him.

    "Boohoo!" Lei Zhao hung up his phone and turned around looking at Ying Sheng nonchntly.

    "Seriously?" Lei Zhao asked as he flicked Ying Sheng''s forehead.

    Ying Sheng pouted, "Cousin, you''re no fun."

    Lei Zhao shrugged. With a low chuckle, he rubbed Ying Sheng''s head.

    "How are you Kiddo?"

    Ying Sheng frowned and folded her arms across her chest.

    "I''m not a kid. Stop calling me that."

    Lei Zhao rolled his eyes at her.

    "Why are you here? Don''t you have ss?"

    "I''m fine. Because I want to and yes I do have ss but I ditched it."

    Ying Sheng replied Lei Zhao with a smirk on her face.

    "Hmm. Let''s go in."

    Ying Sheng raised her brows. She thought Lei Zhao was going to scold her but surprisingly he didn''t.

    "Did youe here with cousin- in-w?"

    Lei Zhao nodded, the moment Ying Sheng heard Lei Zhao she dashed inside the house.

    She wanted to meet Yan Mei after herpany called her but she never got the chance.

    Ying Sheng called out for her aunt, and Lei Xiao Tong responded quietly in the kitchen.

    Once Ying Sheng got to the kitchen, she saw Yan Mei with her head down. She seemed to be immense in whatever she was doing.

    Flour was smeared on her face as she focused on wrapping the dumpling.

    "Ying Sheng. How are you?" Lei Xiao Tong asked with a smile.

    "I''m fine,Aunty."

    Yan Mei looked up when she heard Ying Sheng and shed her a soft smile.

    Ying Sheng blushed, even though she had rushed here to ask Yan Mei why she chose her as an ambassador for her new collection she felt the words were stuck in her throat.

    "Cousin-inw". Ying Sheng greeted Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei lips curved and she hummed in response.

    Ying Sheng turned around to look at Lei Zhao who wasughing at her nervousness.

    She harrumphed and left the kitchen ignoring Lei Zhao.

    "Is everything okay?" Yan Mei asked when she saw Ying Sheng leaving.

    "Yes. She is just shy around you." Lei Zhao took a paper towel and wiped the flour off Yan Mei''s face.

    Yan Mei raised her brows. Ying Sheng didn''t look like someone who would be shy of something so why was she shy of her.

    "Shy of me? Why?"

    Lei Zhao chuckled and shook his head.

    "I don''t know. You can ask herter."

 Chapter 138 Are you happy?

    <h4>Chapter 138 Are you happy?</h4>

    "Ying Sheng, the way you keep stealing nces at my wife do you perhaps like her?" Lei Zhao deep voice sounded at the dinning table interrupting Lei Xiao Tong who was talking to Yan Mei.

    Ying Sheng red at Lei Zhao. Lei Zhao''s lips curved into a mischievous smirk as he turned to look at his wife.

    Yan Mei raised her brows and looked at Ying Sheng. Feeling Yan Mei''s gaze on her, Ying Sheng felt blood warming her face.

    "No-no!" Ying Sheng snapped quickly at Lei Zhao.

    "So you hate my wife instead?" Lei Zhao retorted. He was clearly enjoying teasing Ying Sheng.

    "I¡­"

    Ying Sheng trailed off awkwardly.

    "No, I don''t hate her" She continued.

    "So you admit you like my wife? I never knew you were bent."

    "Cousin!"

    Lei Zhao busted intoughter.

    "Do not have any feelings towards my wife. I don''t care of you''re my cousin I will eat your eyes if you have bad thoughts about her."

    Ying Sheng wrinkled her nose at hisments

    "E. Creppy."

    Lei Zhao shook his head, "Just protecting what''s mine."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes at Lei Zhao and looked at Ying Sheng.

    "Don''t mind him. Is there something you want to say?" Yan Mei asked softly.

    She could always feel Ying Sheng''s gaze on her. The gaze was full of curiosity and awe. Yan Mei felt a little ufortable at first since it''s the first time someone has looked at her like that.

    "Aah...nothing. It just you are full of confident and elegance. I-I can we be friends?"

    Ying Sheng asked as she fidgeted. This is the first time she had asked someone to be friends and her palms felt mmy.

    Lei Zhao busted into a heartyugh when he heard Ying Sheng.

    "Are you really Ying Sheng? Did you hit your head? When did you want to be friends with someone?"

    Ying Sheng''s face burned in embarrassment at Lei Zhao''s words.

    Lei Xiao Tong was just staring at Ying Sheng like she was an alien. She could see the light that shone in Ying Sheng''s eyes anytime she looked at Yan Mei.

    She was like a child wanting validation from someone she looks up to.

    "Yes, we can be friends." Yan Mei finally spoke. She could see the pain and hurt that flickers in the girl''s eyes. Even though she tries to act tough, Yan Mei knew that was all an act.

    "Cousin-inw, really? We can be friends?!"

    Yan Mei smiled and nodded, "Yeah."

    A bright smile broke out on Ying Sheng''s face without her even realizing it. And this began the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

    Lei Xiao Tong looked at Lei Zhao. Without verballymunicating, they had both answered the questions in each other''s eyes.

    "So Ying Sheng, why didn''t you go to school?"

    Yan Mei asked suddenly. Today was Wednesday and she was sure schools hadn''t close by this time.

    "Oh." Ying Shengughed awkwardly.

    "Cousin-inw, I ditched it. I really hate sitting in that ss. Why go through all the hassle to learn. I can just drop dead and die right now. Instead of learning that boring medical books, I will rather enjoy life."

    Yan Mei nodded, "And are you enjoying life? Are you happy?"

    Ying Sheng stiffened at Yan Mei''s questions. Was she enjoying life? Was she happy?

    No, she wasn''t enjoying life nor was she happy. She hated her life.

    "Don''t keep waiting for people who don''t deserve you. If there is someone who makes you happy and is there for you, make sure you don''t lose that person."

    Yan Mei said suddenly surprising Ying Sheng. Is like Yan Mei was able to see what was going on in her life. For some reason she felt Yan Mei was talking about Han Xi and Liam.

    "If it gets tough, stand at a hill and shout, fuck you life. Trust me, you will feel so much better!"

    Yan Mei chuckled as she said, breaking Ying Sheng from her stupor.

    Lei Zhao ruffled his wife''s hair, and ced more dumplings on her te.

    "Eat."

    Yan Mei nodded and stole a nce at Ying Sheng. For some reason, she found herself saying those things to Ying Sheng.

    "Cousin-inw, I will definitely take your advice." Ying Sheng chuckled too, before turning to Lei Zhao.

    "Cousin, let''s go horse riding this weekend."

    Lei Zhao had taught her how to ride when she was a kid and since then, Ying Sheng had fallen in love with it.

    "Ask my wife for permission. I can''t leave the house without her permission."

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes, "Seriously? Don''t show off in front of me."

    Lei Zhao chortled, "I''m serious. Ask my wife for permission. If she agrees I will go."

    Yan Mei brows bumped together. Lei Zhao was recovering and she didn''t want him to do any sports.

    "Ying Sheng, can you make it next week? Your cousin is still recovering."

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes, "Cousin,you''re sick? Why didn''t you tell me?" Ying Sheng said with a pout on her face.

    "I''m okay. Just a few burns. I will live." Lei Zhao replied patting Ying Sheng''s head.

    Ying Sheng ignored Lei Zhao and turned to look at Yan Mei.

    "Okay, cousin-inw. We will go next week! Will youe too?"

    Yan Mei looked at the expectation in Ying Sheng''s eyes and she nodded, "Alright. I wille."

    "Okay."

    Ying Sheng beamed and focused on her food.

    "That...why did you choose me as the ambassador for your new collection?"

    Ying Sheng looked at Yan Mei who waszily flipping a magazine.

    They had finished eating and Lei Zhao had gone to the study to talk with his mother, leaving them alone in the living room.

    Yan Mei looked up at Ying Sheng and smiled at her.

    "Because you fit the theme for the collection."

    Ying Sheng fidgeted, "I have a bad reputation. Aren''t you afraid I will destroy the reputation of yourpany?"

    Yan Mei shook her head and shrugged. "I have a bad reputation too. What matters is how to use that bad reputation to your advantage."

    Ying Sheng nodded and smiled. For the first time, someone believed in her. She had to admit the feeling was nice.

    "I won''t disappoint you!"

    Yan Mei nodded at her, "Good."

    AUTHOR''S NOTE

    Hiyo.....I hope we are all good.

    Happy new month guys! I hope we all be well to meet again in 2021!

    Okiee so I wanna say a few things maybe it''s long sorry in advance.

    First of all, thank you guys for your support. Like I really appreciate it and it means alot to me. Everyday when I wake up I check my WNments and seeing your support brings a smile on my face.

    Also, I saw ament about WN asking me to drop my book because it isn''t doing well.

    Honestly WN wouldn''t ask an original author to drop her book unless trantion.

    But the author might drop the book if the book isn''t doing well. In my case even though I have 18k readers my book isn''t doing well. And it''s kinda depressing.

    I barely earn anything. I''m not asking anyone to force to read with coins but you can support me bymenting, leaving a review or voting for my book.

    Also WN gives free coins every Friday on Facebook and Instagram you can redeem it and buy privilege.

    Since without win win author''s won''t get features. Without features no colls no colls no money then author might drop the book hahaha.

    So please if you can afford support me by buying the 1 coin privilege.

    Thank you!

    Also, thank you for your well wishes. I was so happy and touched when I saw it. I thought people were going to scold me hahaha. I''m like my characters so insecure lololol. And I''m much better now. Sigh, what would I do without you guys. I LOVE YOU GUYS!!!

 Chapter 139 Fatherâ€™s daughter

    <h4>Chapter 139 Father''s daughter</h4>

    Later in the day, when Ying Sheng got home, she saw her mother waiting for her in the living room.

    Ying Sheng raised her brows and ignored her walking straight to her room.

    "Ying Sheng!" Her mother bellowed.

    Ying Sheng groaned and turned to look at her mother. She hated to admit but her mother was really beautiful and elegant.

    "Yes?" Ying Sheng replied to her mother as she strode towards her.

    "Why didn''t you go to school today?!" Her mother questioned angrily.

    Ying Sheng yawned and rolled her eyes. The moment she saw her mother, she knew they were going to have their usual fights.

    "Because...I didn''t want to." Ying Sheng shrugged as she said nonchntly.

    "You!" Su Cha''s temper sparked as anger stirred within her. She took a deep breath to calm down before speaking,

    "You principal called me. You have been skipping sses, not taking part in tests and a teacher caught you smoking thest time!"

    Ying Sheng hummed. Looking at the bored look on her daughter''s face, Su Cha felt a flicker of irritation.

    She doesn''t know what she did in her previous life for God to give her such a daughter. Why can''t her daughter be ssy and graceful like those girls in high society? Why did she have to get a gangster as a daughter?

    Ying Sheng saw the disgust and disdain in her mother''s eyes. She chuckled, a deep rusty sound that vibrated her chest.

    How foolish of her to dream that one day her mother will like her. That one day she would see a motherly affection in her eyes.

    "You went on a business trip for weeks. No calls, no messages, nothing. The first thing you ask your daughter whom you haven''t seen for weeks is why she didn''t go to school?"

    Ying Sheng questioned her mother with her voiceced with sarcasm.

    "At times I wonder if I''m really your daughter." Ying Sheng added as her lips stretched into a sardonic smile.

    A trace of embarrassment shed on Su Cha''s face but she quickly masked it.

    "Don''t try to change the subject! You better give me a good exnation why you have been skipping school or-"

    "Or what?"

    Ying Sheng interrupted her mother. This woman never seizes to amaze her. No words of affection, nothing. She only cares about herself. Her reputation.

    "Stop talking back to me. I don''t want you to ruin your life. Why are you doing this huh? Don''t we give you everything you need? All you have to do is make us proud. Is that too much to ask?"

    Ying Sheng stared at her mother. Numbness consumed her body, her soul. Her fist clenched as she gazed at the woman who gave birth to her.

    Not an ounce of love had she received. Will she ever love her?

    No

    Maybe

    Only God knows.

    She wanted to yell at her mother. ''All I want is my parents'' love and attention. Is that too much to ask?''

    But she knew better than to say anything.

    "Are you done?" Ying Sheng asked rather. The more time she spends with her mother, the more disappointed she bes.

    Su Cha rubbed her temples.

    "Go back to the States." Su Cha mumbled suddenly.

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes at her mother''s words. She was throwing her away again. Her mother didn''t want the disgraceful daughter around. She had a reputation to uphold and she wouldn''t let her, a disgrace ruin it.

    Ying Sheng chuckled humorlessly.

    "Are you sending your rag away again? Are you afraid people will question why the phnthropist who advocates for good behavior, daughter is a mess? Are you afraid they will question your upbringing skills? Are you afraid society will taunt you? You didn''t raise your daughter well? Maybe they will be right-"

    Word after word that flowed from Ying Sheng''s lips angered Su Cha more by the second.

    She was simmering with anger and a wave of fury crashed through her.

    Rage boiled through her body. She barely had a chance to think of her actions. The only thought running through Su Cha''s head was getting Ying Sheng to shut up.

    Su Cha connected her hand with Ying Sheng''s cheek and the room went silent.

    A stinging pain spread through Su Cha''s palm as Ying Sheng''s head snapped to the side, a bright red hand mark smeared on Ying Sheng''s cheeks showing the extreme force of her hit.

    A few minutes passed by and servants just stood there in silence looking at Ying Sheng as if she was the one at fault... They started to whisper in each other''s ears.

    Ying Sheng busted into a manicugh. Theugh filled with so much pain echoed in the room.

    She didn''t even rubbed her cheek to soothe the pain. She just stood there staring at her mother as her lips curved into a sardonic smile.

    Su Cha opened her mouth and closed it again. Even though she always fights with Ying Sheng, she has never raised her hands on her.

    She thought as long as she doesn''t physically hurt her then it is okay. But unbeknownst to her, at times words cause more emotional damage and pain then physical pain.

    Ying Sheng gazed at her mother, she wanted to see traces of remorse in her mother''s eyes but there were none.

    Her mother''s heart didn''t clench in an antagonizing sort of pain for hurting her own child.

    "I hope you are now happy." Ying Sheng left her mother with words whispered so calmly and so softly with no emotions.

    "Ying Sheng, if you walked through that door, don''te back!" Su Cha roared at her daughter.

    She hated her nonchnt behavior. Ying Sheng''s refusal to bend to her will riled her.

    Ying Sheng stopped at the door. She turned to her mother and smirked at her.

    "Remember mother¡­" the word motherced with so much venom.

    "At the end of the day, you''re just a wife. I''m my father''s daughter."

    Then she was gone. Leaving this hellhole called a house; a house not a home. It was never a home for Ying Sheng.

 Chapter 140 Evil witch

    <h4>Chapter 140 Evil witch</h4>

    "Come on, Liam. It would be fun. Stop scrunching your face like we are going to bomb a train." Lucas saidmented seeing his brother''s face.

    "Argh, I spend so much time organizing my closet and now look, you''re ruining it."

    Liam whined staring at his brother nkly as he peered his head from the closet smiling sheepishlyy.

    "Well, you should hire a maid to do these things for you. Also, you can''t me me. I don''t want you to dress like an old businessman at the club. You''re just twenty-three you should start dressing like your age. Not like an old granny."

    Lucas said as he flung an outfit on the floor, muttering Liam''s bad taste in clothes.

    "What is wrong with dressing decently."

    Lucas ignored him as he focused on finding clothes for Liam. Suddenly he eximed in excitement.

    "This is perfect! Try it. Hurry."

    Liam stared at the clothes as he pursed his lips in a thin line.

    "Dude, you should loosen up. No wonder Miss Baddie doesn''t want you." Lucas smirked. He knew the moment he mentions Ying Sheng''s name his brother would agree.

    Liam red at his brother before taking the clothes. "Only today." Liam mumbled

    "Yes Sir." Lucas grinned.

    "Idiot."

    Lucas gasped, his hands pressed against his chest in mock hurt. Liam rolled his eyes.

    **************

    "Time to find some bitcheesss!" Lucas eximed excitedly as he hopped out of the car. mming the door shut, he made his way towards the entrance of the club.

    Liam rolled his eyes and followed his brother. Looking out the crowd lining up the streets, Liam sighed. He was starting to regreting here.

    "Liam, here!" Lucas waved at his brother making people turned to stare at Liam.

    The bouncer at the entrance nodded at Lucas and let them in. It seems Lucas was a regr here.

    The moment they got in, loud music assalute Liam''s ears making him

    frowned.

    He wrinkled his nose in distate when he saw the women battling their fakeshes at him

    "Rx mate." Lucas ppd the back of his brother excitedly when he saw his sullen mood.

    Liam gritted his teeth when women tried to touch him or rubbed their back in his front.

    Fortunately, Lucas lead them to the bar. He raised his hands at the bartender and he poured them a shot of whiskey.

    "Those girls are checking you out bro. You should hook up with one of them. It would help you loossened up. Trust me. Sex is addicting, one taste and you''re a goner!"

    Lucas whispered in Liam''s ears since the music was loud.

    Liam brows bumped together and he shook his head.

    Lucas chuckled and he took a sip of his whiskey. He flirted with the woman sitting beside him.

    Liam sat casually at the bar without touching the ss of whiskey and let his eyes roam in the club.

    Suddenly someone caught his eyes. She was dancing in the middle of the dance floor holding a ss containing a red liquid. Her hips swayed in an alluring way attracting men hungry gazes.

    Liam felt a surge of possessiveness through him as he stood up abruptly and made his way towards her.

    He increased his pace and rushed through sweaty bodies when he saw a man approaching her. He breathed in relief when he reached her earlier than the man.

    Liam tapped her shoulders and she turned around.

    "Yo, it''s my cutie pie!" Ying Sheng said excitedly and Liam knew she was drunk.

    "Oh my! I nearly didn''t notice you. You look¡­.hot and sexy!"

    Ying Sheng said as her eyes roamed Liam''s body.

    He was wearing a ck skinny jeans with a ck T-shirt which hung on his frame and a ck leather jacket.

    Liam felt his heart speeding and he blushed.

    Ying Sheng hugged him before giggling. Liam froze and he felt his blood warming up his cheeks when he felt her breast poking his chest.

    She was squeezing him tightly.

    Liam pulled away and cleared his throat.

    "Let''s get you home. You could use a bed rest."

    Ying Sheng blinked and scrunched her face.

    "Home?" She hupped.

    "H-O-M-E" Ying Sheng spelled the word and busted into augh.

    "Ok...ay. Let''s go. Cutie."

    Liam ced Ying Sheng in the passenger''s seat before he got in the car. The moment the car started, she started singing a random love song which made no sense.

    Liam heaved a sigh but said nothing. He knew she was hurting from the look in her eyes.

    "Liam¡­" she suddenly called him.

    "Hmm?" Liam nced at her.

    "I think I''m going to puke.". Ying Sheng''s pouted.

    Liam suddenly stopped the car and she puked in the grass on the side of the road.

    Liam took water from his car and he gave it to her.

    Ying Sheng shot him a grateful look and she took the water. She washed her mouth with the water.

    "Let''s get some fresh air before we go." Liam suggested.

    Ying Sheng nodded. She sat on the hood of the car and Liam leaned against the car staring at the sky.

    "Are you okay?" Liam suddenly spoke after a few minutes of silence.

    "Hmm...define okay." Ying Sheng said, sounding dramatic.

    Liam heaved a sigh.

    "You...need to find me a hotel. An expensive one. I''m going to spend their money. After all, is all they gave me. Money...money...money."

    Ying Sheng chanted.

    Liam raised his brows when he heard her.

    "Hotel?" He asked.

    Ying Sheng nodded.

    "Yeah...the witch she¡­.pped me and I...walked out on her. She told me not toe...back"

    Ying Sheng shrugged. Liam''s eyes widened and he looked at her face.

    He didn''t really pay attention to her face because he is afraid she would tease him. Now that the moon was on her face he clearly saw the red print on her face even though she had used make up to hide it.

    "The witch , she is¡­."

    "My mother."

    Ying Sheng finished for him

    "She...is ¡­.an evil witch."

 Chapter 141 Stay with me

    <h4>Chapter 141 Stay with me</h4>

    They stayed in silence looking at the moon. Liam looked at Ying Sheng and saw pain flickering in her eyes. How can her parents not notice that their daughter needed them.

    Taking off his jackets, he handed it to her. She was wearing a tank top and ck tights skinny jeans.

    Ying Sheng grinned and took the jacket. "A, my cutie honey pie is such a gentleman."

    Ying Sheng squealed, making Liam chuckle at her cuteness. He really wanted to ruffle her hair at the moment.

    A faint blush tainted his cheeks when he realized what he was thinking. Liam looked at her beautiful eyes and he felt his heart beating in his chest.

    His gaze subconsciously travelled to her lips as she licked them. How will it feel to have those lips wrapped around his¡­

    The tip of Liam''s ears became red and he shook his head to get the dirty thoughts from his head.

    Gosh what was wrong with him?! When did he be such a pervert?

    Clearing his throat he started a conversation to take his mind off dirty things.

    So what about your father? Where is he?" Liam asked her.

    Ying Sheng''s brows puckered and she snickered.

    "Him? Aahhh... probably working in his office right now. That man is obsessed with his job." Ying Sheng said quietly.

    She missed the times her father was around. They will go for ice cream together as a happy family. But then, one night everything changed.

    Liam put the pieces together. Her parents were so focused on their job that they forgot her. In order to get their attention she turned into a rebel.

    Liam felt a pang in his chest. Growing up with a loving and supporting family he couldn''t say he can rte to her situation but he definitely didn''t want her to be sad.

    "Come on, let''s go." Ying Sheng squinted her eyes but she nodded, "Alright."

    She drifted to him and Liam helped her down before opening the door for her.

    Liam started the car and they were both lost in their thoughts.

    "Where are we going?" Ying Sheng finally asked, breaking the silence.

    Liam nced at her with a sly and mischievous look on his face.

    "We are going to spend daddy''s money. The most expensive hotel in the country."

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes as they sparkled in excitement.

    "I thought you would take me home but I guess a hotel will do."

    Ying Sheng said as she threw him a subtle wink.

    Liam blushed at her words.

    Twenty minutester, they pulled into the most expensive hotel in the country. The owner was mysterious and the architecture structure of the building was simply the best.

    They walked through the door and Ying Sheng swirled around.

    "This hotel is fucking marvelous!" Ying Sheng eximed like an excited child making Liam chuckle.

    People shot her a disdain re but she just gave them the finger making them shook their head.

    "Yeah, the owner is mysterious too. It is rumored that he built the hotel because he was bored. Only a few people have seen him before. "

    Ying Sheng''s eye sparkled with excitement. "I like mysterious people. Maybe I should investigate him. It would be fun if I get him as a sugar daddy."

    Liam frowned at her words. Clearly he didn''t like that but he didn''t say anything.

    Ying Sheng''s eyes roamed the entrance as Liam made reservations with the card she gave him. Even though he could pay, he knew she wanted to do this to vent. Even though the money was a small amountpared to how rich they were he knew his father would get an alert from the bank.

    Maybe he woulde back to check on his daughter, when he gets the news she is spending millions in a hotel.

    "Oh my gosh! Is the elevator made of gold?" Ying Sheng asked, making the managerugh. He knew she was drunk but he still found it funny.

    "Hmm."

    "No way. You''re serious?"

    The manager nodded, "Yes. I''m serious."

    "Holy shit! Why didn''t I know about this hotel?"

    The manager smiled, "Only a few people in the upper ss knows about this ce. It''s like a divine secluded ce for them."

    Ying Sheng nodded. It makes sense. Those people in the upper ss didn''t want their favorite ce to be leaked.

    The elevator took them to the twenty- sixth floor.

    Ying Sheng''s eyes lit up when she saw their room. It was a penthouse.

    "Tell me this cost a fortune." Liam chuckled and nodded.

    "Yeah it does. Even though Uncle is rich I''m sure he would raise an eyebrow when he receives a bank alert."

    Ying Sheng nodded as she went to therge window in the room.

    Liam thanked the manager and he left after telling them to call for help if they need anything.

    "So...are you happy now?" Liam asked as he stared at her back.

    Ying Sheng turned around and nodded.

    "Yeah, I will order the most expensive wine and most expensive food. I''m going to treat myself like a queen."

    Liam''s eyes shed with affection and he nodded.

    "You should. You''re definitely a strong queen."

    He strode closer to her and his hands cupped her cheeks.

    "Does it hurt?" He asked softly as he gently rubbed the ce the red mark was.

    Ying Sheng blinked when she realized how closed they were. She gazed into his eyes and her heart nearly skipped a beat at the intense emotions she saw in them.

    "No-no. No pain."

    Liam furrowed his brows. He turned from her cheeks and looked into her eyes to determine the truth in what she was saying.

    But the moment his eyes mmed into hers, he felt like time had stopped moving. Only his heart beating rapidly in his chest.

    God, this woman would be the death of him. He let his gaze drop to her lips and he suddenly remembered the night she took his first kiss.

    Was her lips still soft like he remembered? Liam took a step back and shed her a smile.

    "Sleep. I will see you tomorrow morning."

    He said and strode towards the door but her voice stopped him in his tracks.

    "Please¡­.stay with me."

 Chapter 142 Wine and Make out

    <h4>Chapter 142 Wine and Make out</h4>

    "Dad, I have gotten a girl pregnant." Liam hung up the call and Ying Sheng busted intoughter.

    Liam groaned, "He is going to kill me."

    "No, don''t be dramatic. I''m sure uncle would understand." Ying Shengughed clutching her stomach.

    Liam stared at her and his lips curved into a smile. As long as she was happy that was the most important thing.

    When she had asked him to stay, he agreed. After all, he wouldn''t let the opportunity to get closer to her slip by. Also, he didn''t want to leave her alone. Not when she was in a bad mood.

    Ying Sheng had ordered eight bottles of the most expensive wine and currently they were on the seventh one ying truth or dare.

    "Okay, your turn." Liam smiled as he said. He waspletely wasted and no more the shy guy he was.

    Ying Sheng pouted, "Eh truth."

    Liam licked his lips before asking, "What is the most terrifying thing for you."

    A sad smile spilled from Ying Sheng''s lips.

    "Hmm...being happy¡­.it''s the most terrifying thing in the universe."

    Liam furrowed his brows, "Why?"

    Ying Sheng snorted and gulped down her wine. "Because...once you''re happy it can be taken away from you. Whomp! Like that. Then your heart will hurt and your soul will bleed. Pathetic right?!"

    Liam moved closer to her and tucked her hair that was on her face behind her ear. Because of the alcohol it was like he was possessed. He slided the tips of his fingers down her neck, gently like feathers.

    "No, being happy isn''t terrifying. You just need to find the right person to make you happy. Trust me Red, happiness is a nice feeling."

    Ying Sheng just sat there, his words ringing in her head. She felt her heart starting to race in her chest.

    Trying to hide her emotions, Ying Sheng pushed him a little and chuckled.

    "Are you trying to flirt with me Liam? Also Red? Seriously?"

    Liam grinned and nodded, "Is it working?"

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes, "Geez alcohol what have you done to my Cutie?!" She eximed.

    Liam chortled at her words, "I''m a man Baddie, not a saint."

    Liam changed the nicky when he realized she hated the Red endearment.

    "Oh" Ying Sheng''s eyes gleamed with mischievousness.

    She liked this bold version of her good boy. She leaned against his body.

    Feeling the muscles she didn''t know he had. Her hands sneaked under his shirt tracing patterns with her fingers.

    "Do you have any idea how sexy you look tonight."

    Ying Sheng whispered, staring into his eyes. For some odd reason she felt her heart racing in her chest.

    His gaze was like he was looking at the most precious thing in the world.

    "Tell me Cutie, do you like me touching you?" Ying Sheng purred as she licked Liam''s earlobes.

    Liam felt his body buzzing at her closeness. A torrent of emotions welled up but he kept them at Bay. His trousers were suddenly getting tighter.

    He stared at her for a few long seconds before he grabbed her wrist and gave her a small smile.

    "It''s time for bed, Baddie. Let''s get you up."

    Ying Sheng pouted, "Baddie is that my new nicky?"

    Liam grinned and nodded, "You call me Cutie so I call you Baddie. It kinda rhymes."

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes. Liam chuckled as he helped her up and pulled her towards the bed.

    Once they reached the bed, Ying Sheng pulled him and he fell on top of her on the bed.

    Liam''s breath hitched, he gently stroked her cheeks with her thumb as he looked into her eyes.

    Her eyes darken with lust as she gazed into his eyes.

    Why didn''t she notice how handsome he was all this while? He was the nicest person she has ever met and he was always there when she needed him. Why didn''t she notice how amazing he was all this while?

    ''Because you were busy obsessing about someone who doesn''t want you.''

    Her mind replied to her questions.

    Ying Sheng licked her lips and she felt his gaze fall on her lips.

    Before Liam could say anything he felt her lips on his. He widened his eyes as shock rocked through him.

    His heartbeat was erratic. He didn''t know what to do or how to even deep kiss but he trusted his instincts.

    Liam opened his mouth and Ying Sheng slipped her tongue inside.

    "Liam¡­" she breathed his name as she wrapped her hands around his neck pulling him more closer.

    Hearing his name made him hard, damn! He savored the taste and softness of her lips.

    Liam had no idea how long they kissed but he pulled away and rested his forehead against hers. Their breathing ragged and heavy.

    "Liam¡­" Ying Sheng''s eyes met his and Liam saw different emotions shed in her beautiful eyes.

    Suddenly Liam pulled away from her and he stood up.

    "Sorry.."

    A trace of hurt shed through Ying Sheng''s eyes. He was rejecting her. Even he doesn''t want her. Nobody does! She felt her heart shattering inside of her and there was nothing she could do to stop the pain.

    Suddenly she busted into a sob as she cupped her face with her hands.

    Liam widened his eyes in panic, "Ying Sheng, why are you crying? Did I hurt you? Sorry. I-I"

    "You don''t want me. Nobody-no wants me."

    Liam widened his eyes at her words. His strong arms wrapped around her in a tight grip as her sobs filled the room.

    "No, it''s not like that. We are both drunk and I don''t want us to do anything we will regretter. "

    Ying Sheng''s emotions broke out and she couldn''t hold back. Her mother''s p, her parents indifference to everything she did. Her fears and her loneliness finally broke out.

    Liam just rocked her slowly in his arms with her face buried in the crook of his neck.

    Every tear felt like a knife piercing through his heart. He felt helpless as her tears soaked through his shirt.

    He didn''t know his actions would hurt her. Even though he was pretty sure she wouldn''t remember any of this once she gets sober.

    He stayed with her wrapped in his arms until she fell asleep.

 Chapter 143 Hungover and Awkwardness

    <h4>Chapter 143 Hungover and Awkwardness</h4>

    When Ying Sheng woke up, she felt every muscle in her body was aching and like someone had hit her head with a hammer.

    She rubbed her eyes as she groaned but suddenly she stiffened.

    Ying Sheng turned her head and saw that her legs were tangled together with Liam''s. One of his arms were wrapped around her waist where her tank top had ridden up.

    His light snores sounded in the room with his lips slightly parted. Ying Sheng just stared at him as her lips curved into a smile.

    Many thoughts assaulted her mind as she surveyed her surroundings. The memories of her mother pping her, going to club, meeting Liam anding to a hotel shed in her mind.

    The weird thing is that she doesn''t remember what happened when she was drunk.

    Why was Liam in the same bed with her? She was still wearing her clothes so Ying Sheng knew nothing had happened. Or something did happened?

    Her breath caught when her eyes mmed into Liam''s. She doesn''t even know when he woke up or how long he has been staring at her.

    "Ying Sheng.". Liam said in a husky voice since he just woke up.

    They just stared at each other without saying anything. Liam didn''t what to say. He wasn''t sure if she remembers what happenedst night.

    Now that the alcohol was out of his system he was pretty nervous about her reaction. Liam ran his gaze over he body determing if she was okay before looking back in her eyes.

    "Hi, Liam.". Ying Sheng awakwardly as a faint blush tainted her cheeks. Geez, she was blushing and she doesn''t blush!

    She doesn''t know why she was embarrassed even though nothing happened. Nothing happened right?

    Liam shed her smile, "Hi, how are you feeling?". Liam asked softly.

    Ying Sheng groaned, "I feel like shit! My whole body is aching."

    Liam chuckled, "Drinking seven bottles of wine does that to your body."

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes. Swallowing the lump in her throat she stared back at Liam.

    "Did I do anything crazy? I don''t remember the details."

    Something shed in Liam''s eyes but she couldn''t decide what she saw. Like a trace of hesitation.

    "Nothing, we just drunk and yed truth or dare. After that we came to sleep. I was drunk so I slept beside you without knowing."

    Ying Sheng didn''t quite believe him but she nodded.

    "I will ran a bath for you." Liam said as ease down the bed and walked towards the bathroom.

    "Oh, thanks."

    Ying Sheng could feel something has changed between them but she couldn''t pinpoint what exactly.

    "I''m done." A few minutester, Liam''s voice pulled her out of her stupor and she stared at him dumfounded.

    "Huh?"

    Liam''s brows knitted together in a worried frown.

    "Are you sure you''re okay?"

    There was a weird feeling in the pit of her stomach and she doesn''t know why she felt that way. Maybe it''s the alcohol.

    Ying Sheng drew in a deep breath and nodded.

    "Yeah, I''m okay. Thank you"

    Liam nodded, "Alright then, I will call someone to bring you clothes. I will be in the next room if you need me."

    Liam said and stared at her for a few moments before walking out of the room.

    Ying Sheng breathed a sigh of relief when he left. She never thought she would wake up on the same bed with Liam on the same bed one day.

    She could still remember the warmth from his body. Apart form her cousin and aunty, she felt someone really cared about her.

    Her mind rushed to the look she saw in his eyes a while ago. Why was that look in his eyes? Did she forget an important detail?

    Groaning she pulled herself slowly from the bed and padded towards the bathroom.

    Ying Sheng closed the door and nced at the bathroom. It was beautiful but she was in no mood to appreciate the beauty.

    Walking towards the mirror she sighed when she saw her reflection. Her eyes were puffy and her hair was a mess. Judging from her eyes she knew she might have cried.

    Ying Sheng furrowed her brows. She wonders what made her cried.

    Ying Sheng stripped her clothes and ease down the tub andid back. She moaned in satisfaction when the water touched her skin.

    Ying Sheng took her time in the tub beforeing out.

    Afterwards she wrapped herself with one of the towels neatly piled up beside the sink and returned to the bedroom.

    Ying Sheng saw a fresh clothes and undergarments on the bed. Ying Sheng felt warm in her heart. Letting the towel drop, she changed into the dark skinny jeans and red sweater.

    Ying Sheng walked out of the room. The penthouse was beautiful. Everything was just so luxurious and posh. Soft cushions, gigantic t screen TV and a cozy firece.

    "How are you feeling now?" Ying Sheng spun around and saw Liam standing in the middle of the room. He had taken a bath and had changed into a new shirt and pants that hung on his hips.

    His hands were in his pocket as he smiled softly at her. Ying Sheng stomach twisted with a weird feeling as she stared at him. Suddenly the atmosphere became tense.

    "A little better." She mumbled as she avoided his gaze. She didn''t even ask how he knew her size for the clothes. Ying Sheng didn''t want to make things more awkward.

    "Let''s eat. After that we take the painkillers."

    Ying Sheng nodded and followed him to the kitchen.

    "I don''t know what you want to eat so I ordered alot."

    Ying Sheng stomach rumbled at the sight of the food on the kitchen counter.

    "Hmm. These are okay."

    They ate in silence before Liam spoke breaking the silence atmosphere.

    "Are you nning on staying here?"

    Ying Sheng looked up and grinned, "Why Cutie, you wanna spend the rest of your life with me here?"

    ******

    Mass release of 4 chapters when we get 10k votes same time next week.

    Please don''t forget to vote xoxox

 Chapter 144 Breakdown and anger

    <h4>Chapter 144 Breakdown and anger</h4>

    Liam blushed when he heard her.

    "No-I-I¡­"

    Ying Sheng chuckled, "Rx I''m just joking."

    Liam nodded and focused on his food ignoring her.

    "I don''t know but I would stay here for a while."

    Liam looked up at her and frowned slightly. He didn''t want her to live alone, not when she was in a bad mood. He knew Ying Sheng''s mental health was pretty bad and if he left her alone he was afraid something bad would happen.

    "I was thinking...since I live alone. Do you want to live with me? As roommates. My apartment is big and if you''re notfortable you can pay rent."

    Liam rambled nervously.

    "Alright.". Ying Sheng agreed.

    Liam widened his eyes and a smile spilled from his lips.

    "Then-"

    The sound of the door bell ringing interrupted him. Liam raised his brows. He didn''t order room service so who could it be?

    "Did you order room service?" Ying Sheng shook her head.

    "Alright I will check who is at the door."

    Liam said as he strode towards the door. He looked at the peephole but the person was wearing a ck suit and his back was facing him.

    The moment Liam opened the door, the person turned around.

    "How may I help-"

    Liam''s words were cut off when he heard a cackle and then with a sh of pain he stumbled back bewildered.

    The man stood above him, panting, his hand still curled in a fist."

    He grabbed the neck of Liam''s shirt aggressively, "Where is she?"

    Liam finally recognized the man. After all he was on the front page of every business magazine and newspaper.

    "Liam? Who is there?" Ying Sheng''s voice sounded, making the man release Liam. He rushed in the room and saw Ying Sheng.

    "Ying Sheng are you okay? Did that man do anything to you?"

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes in surprise, "Dad?"

    She narrowed her eyes and strode towards Liam. He was clutching his stomach in pain.

    "Liam are you okay?" Liam groaned and nodded.

    He had to admit the man''s punch was really painful!

    "What are you doing here dad? Why did you hit him?"

    Mr. Ying looked at his daughter and sighed.

    " I woke up and saw a bank alert that you''re spending money in a hotel. Why are you in a hotel? Don''t tell me you''re sleeping around with this¡­"

    "So what if I am sleeping around with him! Why do you care huh?"

    "Of course I care, you''re my daughter. I rushed her the moment I got down from the ne. I won''t let any boy ruin your life!"

    Ying Sheng chuckled at her father''s words. "My life is already ruined. Ain''t no boy who is going to ruin it. You and that witch have done enough damage."

    Mr. Ying froze at her words. "Why are you calling your mother a witch?"

    Ying Sheng crossed her arms around her chest. "Mother? When was she ever a mother to me?!" Ying Sheng bellowed angrily.

    "What are you talking about?" Mr. Ying asked softly.

    "Both of you are never around. She doesn''t even know when I had my period. When I was nearly killed by some thugs both of you didn''t even realize I was missing for days because your business is what matters not me. I have never been anyone''s priority! Never!"

    Mr. Ying opened his mouth and closed it again.

    "So what if I''m sleeping around? What if I''m doing drugs or tattooes? Why do you care?! You never cared about me. To you and that witch I''m just a disgrace to your name. Now you''re here pretending that you care about me."

    Ying Sheng said with tears in her eyes. She was angry, angry at herself. She snapped the tears trying to escape and she quickly looked at the ceilings pushing them back. She was done crying.

    Ying Sheng was tired of everything around her and she didn''t want to cry anymore. The heartache she felt was indescribable.

    Mr.Ying took a step closer to her but Ying Sheng stepped back and bolted out of the room.

    Mr.Ying just stood there awkwardly, this is the first time that she has told him how she really feels and as a father he didn''t even know how to react.

    Liam looked at Mr.Ying and sighed, "She really needs her parents love and attention. Do you know how I met her? She was trying tomit suicide that night. She walked in the middle of the street, fortunately I was able to stop my car a few feet from her."

    Mr. Ying felt like he had been struck by lightning. He looked up at Liam.

    "W-what are you talking about?" Mr. Ying asked with fear evident in his voice.

    Liam continued ignoring his question

    "When she woke up, she screamed out in pain.

    Why didn''t you hit me with the car? Why did you save me? I was finally ready- she had demanded angrily."

    "It''s the first time I have seen someone begging to be killed." Liam chuckled humorlessly.

    Mr. Ying fingers trembled when he heard Liam. He never thought his daughter was going through so much.

    "I don''t care if you have a business to run but remember you might lose your daughter in the process. Also, tell your wife this is thest time she would raise her hands on her or I would leak it to the media. Child abuse is quite a sensitive topic."

    Liam said as he left Mr. Ying alone in the room and strode towards the bedroom where Ying Sheng had run to.

    Mr. Ying stood in the living room as Liam''s words echoed in his head. His daughter...Ying Sheng she tried to kill herself.

    Why? She never showed any signs of being suicidal. He thought as long as he gave her enough money she would be okay.

    Did he ruin his daughter? Suddenly he remembered what Liam had said.

    Su Cha hit her? But why? He knew about their arguments but he never paid attention because he thought it was normal.

    "Sir, are you okay?" His secretary who was waiting at the door asked snapping him out of his stupor.

    "Hmm. Let''s go home. Also, send someone to keep an eye on the young miss."

    The secretary nodded. "Yes, sir."

 Chapter 145 War and Fears

    <h4>Chapter 145 War and Fears</h4>

    Trigger Warning: This chapter contains suicide thoughts if it would trigger you or you''re ufortable PLEASE skip for me. Lots of love.

    When Liam got to the bedroom he saw Ying Sheng lying on the bed looking at the ceiling. He was scared she would do anything stupid but surprisingly she was too calm after her outburst.

    "Ying Sheng¡­." He called out gently.

    "Hmm?" Ying Sheng replied without looking at him.

    "How are you?" Liam asked softly.

    Ying Sheng chortled humorlessly.

    "You have been asking that alottely."

    Liam heaved a sigh, "Tell me what you are thinking."

    "Nothing." Ying Sheng retorted.

    Liam furrowed his brows. " Don''t lie to me. If you don''t want to talk about it just tell me."

    Liam said with his voiceced with concern.

    Ying Sheng arched her brows and looked in his direction.

    "Why do you care?!" She snapped at him bitterly, not missing the way his face contoured.

    Ying Sheng realized she was being rude and took a deep breath,

    "I-I sorry, I didn''t mean that." She muttered squeezing her eyes shut slightly.

    "It''s okay. I care because we are friend''s." Liam whispered smiling softly at her.

    Ying Sheng sucked in a harsh breath as she ignored the palpation of her heart mming against her chest.

    She blinked rapidly, ignoring the loud voices in her head but they were pestering her.

    "Do you really believe him?"

    "He would leave you. They all do."

    "No one wants a wreck like you. Save the world of your existence. End it."

    "No one wants a lonely, pathetic girl. You know your body craves the sharp edge on your skin. Why fight it?"

    "Do it, cut it, end it. If your death can help you escape this misery, then why don''t you just¡­."

    "Shut up!" Ying Sheng shouted as she held her head.

    Liam panicked when he heard her. He rushed towards her and pulled her from the bed.

    He shook her before she opened her eyes and stared at him.

    "I''m a wreck, Liam. A wreck nobody wants." Ying Sheng finally spoke looking at the ceiling.

    "Me. I tried to be happy, I tried to act like people''s words and opinions had no effect on me but I''m tired Liam. So fucking tired."

    Ying Sheng chuckled humorlessly, "I can''t keep fighting for nothing. Right now, I really want to slice a de across my wrist. Maybe the pain would finally fill the emptiness inside me."

    Liam just stared at her without interrupting her. He knew this is her, opening up to him.

    "Call me, weak but I don''t want to hurt anymore."

    Ying Sheng snickered numbly.

    "Everyday, I wake up to this depressed world and I wish I didn''t." Ying Sheng whispered as tears began to pool at the back of her eyes.

    "I can''t do it anymore Liam. No one understands me. To them I''m just a disgrace or a pampered gangster ruining her life. But¡­."

    Ying Sheng took a deep breath, "They don''t know the war I have to fight against the voices in my head every fucking day. Now I''m loosing the war. I''m tired, I just wanna close my eyes and never wake up. After all, people finally show you love when you''re gone."

    Ying Sheng chuckled hysterically as tears broke out thenughter.

    "I can''t¡­. can''t do this anymore."

    Suddenly Ying Sheng felt herself being engulfed in a hug.

    Ying Sheng felt a lump in her throat. She has never told anyone this. Not even the therepist Lei Zhao hired for her. But for some reason she told Liam.

    "Shss.. it''s okay. You don''t have to be strong everyday. If you want to cry just cry. If you want to scream don''t let anything hold you back. I will lean you my shoulders to cry on."

    And just like that she screamed with all her might. Her tears flowed down her face like a river escaping a dam. The only time she would stop was to breath.

    Liam had no idea how long he held her but when the worst of the crying was over, he pulled her away and looked in her eyes.

    "You don''t have to fight the war alone. Not anymore. Even the strongestmander or leader doesn''t win a war alone. It''s the soliders that win the war; together as a team."

    Ying Sheng blinked in confusion.

    "I promised you, I wouldn''t let anyone hurt you. If you think you''re losing the war just call me please."

    Ying Sheng searched his eyes if he was saying the truth and she chuckled, "Cutie, if you act like this I would fall in love with you. Trust me I get attached easily. " She said sarcastically.

    If it was any other day, Liam''s heart would have skipped a beat but he knew she was joking.

    "Also, they all said the same thing, why should I believe you?"

    Ying Sheng asked, her voice cracking as she looked at him with pained eyes.

    "Friends are always there for each other. Just¡­.give me a chance."

    Liam waited for her reply. He knew loneliness has been herpanion for a long time so it would be hard to let someone in.

    Ying Sheng smiled and nodded, "Alright, Cutie."

    Liam smiled, " I will always be there for you, Baddie. I will be there to lean you my shoulder. I will be there to catch you never letting you go. You don''t have to be alone."

    Ying Sheng snorted. "Make sure you don''t run away."

    Liam chuckled and shook his head, "Never, so get used to me."

    He wiped the tears on her face with his hands.

    "Ready to go home?" Liam asked Ying Sheng.

    "Yes, let''s go." Liam smiled and nodded.

    "I will go and check out."

    The moment Liam left, Ying Sheng took a deep breath. It was really nice to have a friend who is always there for you.

    Suddenly, her phone rang snapping her out of her thoughts.

    "Miss. Ying, good morning. I''m calling to remind you of your photo shoot tommorow."

    A woman''s voice sounded the moment Ying Sheng picked up the call.

    "Alright, thanks."

    Ying Sheng hung up and took a deep breath.

    ''New beginning.''

    Author''s Note:

    I know Ying Sheng''s story is a little depressing but it won''t for long. So please patience.

    Happy new months guys! Thank you for your support. Honestly I didn''t think anyone would buy my privilege this month. Was so scared about it but then I saw thements and I''m like oh?

    Really appreciate it guys. Love.

 Chapter 146 Secrets and Affairs

    <h4>Chapter 146 Secrets and Affairs</h4>

    "Sir, we are here." Mr. Ying''s secretary voice snapped him out of his thoughts. The words of his daughter has been echoing in his head ever since he left the hotel.

    He never thought his negligence would make him nearly lose his daughter. He was really ashamed of himself.

    Rubbing his temples he got down of his car and walked towards the house.

    When he entered,he saw his wifezily flipping through the magazine with an apple in her hand.

    ''Her daughter didn''te home and she doesn''t even care?'' Mr.Ying thought as he shook his head.

    Su Cha looked up when she heard footsteps in the room.

    "Oh, you''re back." She said this nonchntly and looked back at the magazine.

    Mr. Ying heaved a sigh and sat down facing his wife.

    "We need to talk." He said as he loosened his tie.

    "Hmm? I''m listening." Su Cha said as she took a bite of her apple. For this husband of hers, she tried. Really tried but sigh¡­

    "Where is Ying Sheng?" Mr.Ying asked bluntly.

    Su Cha shrugged, "I don''t know. I''m not her bodyguard."

    A sh of irritation shed through Mr.Ying. He took a deep breath to calm down.

    "Yes, you''re not her "bodyguard" but you''re her mother! So tell me woman, where is my daughter?"

    Mr. Ying snapped angrily. Su Cha looked up meeting her husband''s fierce re.

    "Oh, you suddenly remembered that you have a daughter? I thought you have forgotten."

    Mr.Ying furrowed his brows as anger roared through his veins.

    "I don''t know where your precious daughter is. She left yesterday and she never came back. I''m sure she is busy doing something that would disgrace us. It''s the only thing she knows how to do!"

    The servants suddenly dispersed. They knew their masters were going to fight and they didn''t want to witness it.

    "You¡­! You''re not afraid that something happened to your daughter? What kind of mother are you?"

    Su Cha chuckled when she heard her husband, "Seriously? If she was dead I''m sure we would have heard by now."

    Mr. Ying clenched his fist as his chin trembled. He has never hit a woman before but for once he wanted to hit the woman in front of him.

    "Don''t act like you are any better than me, Mr. Ying. You were never home. Too busy with yourpany and that woman. Don''t think I don''t know about your affair!"

    Mr. Ying widened his eyes.

    "All those nights you''re not home, you were with her. It has always been her. Not me or my children." Su Cha continued.

    Mr. Ying heaved a sigh, there was no need to hide the truth.

    "I-I''m sorry." Su Cha snorted.

    "Toote for that. Don''t you think?" Su Cha bite her apple as her lips curved into a sardonic smile.

    "She is pregnant isn''t she?"

    Mr. Ying bowed his head and nodded.

    "Yes, she is."

    Su Cha hummed.

    "Even though this marriage was a business marriage I tried to make it work. I really did. But you made it so difficult. Also, the shadows of the past kept haunting me."

    Mr. Ying looked at the woman he had been married to for years. Even though they have been married for more than twenty years he never loved her.

    For him,she was the devil who separated him from his love. And for her, he was the monster who shattered her perfect life.

    "I thought you hated me. That''s why I was never around. I thought you needed space, seeing me would remind you of that night¡­"

    Mr. Ying trailed off.

    "That''s why you don''t like Ying Sheng right? Seeing her remind you of that night. Of that disgrace. " He continued.

    "Yes, I hate her! She was a product of my biggest nightmare what makes you think I can love her? I tried when she was a child. I tried to be a mother to her but I can''t."

    Su Cha roughly wiped the tears that was trailing on her cheeks.

    "You know...when she was a kid. I-I tried to kill her. As long as she was no more I wouldn''t be reminded of that night. Her existence is the clear proof of my misery!"

    Mr. Ying felt like someone was pulling the string of his heart. He never thought he has caused so many people pain. When did he be such a monster?

    "I-I''m sorry. I shouldn''t have taken you out that night. It''s all my fault. We were once best friends but I messed it up didn''t I?"

    Su Cha looked away as tears run down her cheeks.

    "You can hate me but you can''t hurt Ying Sheng. She is innocent in all of this. Do you know she tried to kill herself?"

    Mr. Ying said as he swallowed the lump in his throat.

    Su Cha widened her eyes, "What are you talking about? Why? I thought she was¡­"

    Mr. Ying shook his head, "I know. We haven''t been the best of parents. We have ruined our daughter."

    Silence fell between them.

    "I know you have met him. You have always loved him, haven''t you?" Mr. Ying finally spoke breaking the silence.

    Su Cha avoided his eyes and nodded.

    "Hmm. Let''s divorce. Being together we are going to continue to hurt each other. This marriage was doom to end from the beginning. The moment¡­"

    Mr. Ying shoulders slumped. "I''m sorry Susu. I never meant to hurt you. I thought being Mrs. Ying was enough but I guess I was wrong."

    Su Cha looked at the man who she has been married to. They were once best friends but one night ruined everything.

    "Ying Sheng¡­..what are we going to tell her? Do you think she hates me? I tried to be a mother to her but¡­.I failed her."

    Mr. Ying forced a smile, "I don''t know. But I hope she understands. We would make this work.

    Suddenly Su Cha face paled, "My father, he would never allow me to be with him or agree on this divorce."

    Mr. Ying nodded, " We will keep it a secret for now. First, we need to find a way to make it up to our daughter. I know it''s difficult but she is your daughter after all."

    Su Cha nodded. Even though she hates Ying Sheng, she doesn''t want her to die. Ying Sheng is her daughter after all.

    Author''s Note

    Okiee guys lemme know what you think their story is.

    Hint: Like all typical arranged marriages haha

 Chapter 147 Horny and naughty

    <h4>Chapter 147 Horny and naughty</h4>

    Trigger Warning: Chapter contains mature content skip if ufortable if not then XD enjoy lol.

    "Good morning, Wifey." Lei Zhao''s husky voice sounded the moment Yan Mei opened her eyes.She nced at him and saw that he was wiping his hair.

    A few droplets of the water slipped from the tips of his head and it trailed on his bare chest slowly moving into the V shape where his towel was wrapped around his waist.

    Yan Mei looked up and met his eyes. Lei Zhao smirked at her seeing the desire in her eyes.

    Yan Mei groaned and buried her head in the pillow and covered her head with the nket.

    It was warm and cozy with Lei Zhao''s scent lingering on it.

    Lei Zhao chuckled and walked towards her, "Don''t hide from me Wifey. You know making you horny and happy are my two favorite things."

    Lei Zhao said as he reached out and pulled the nket from her body. He grabbed her wrist and spun her around to face her.

    "Are you shy because you got horny looking at me?" Lei Zhao asked as he grinned.

    Yan Mei bit her lips and avoided his gaze. Lei Zhao removed the strands of her hair sticking on her face and buried his face in the crock of her neck breathing in her scent.

    Lei Zhao started licking and sucking her neck, earning a moan from Yan Mei.

    "So you sure are horny this early morning. My wife is bing more naughty." Lei Zhao whispered in her ears as his breath fanned on her skin.

    He looked up at her, "Gosh you''re so beautiful." Lei Zhao said in a deep voice that Yan Mei found so sexy.

    "When you smile¡­" Lei Zhao fingers traced her lips.

    "Not those evil smiles but when you really smile, you brighten up my world. You make me feel giddy like a teenager in love."

    Yan Mei giggled at his words, "I know I look horrible when I wake up in the morning!"

    "No, you''re always beautiful in my eyes. Hermosa."

    Lei Zhao''s mouth followed his fingertip; her mouth trembled.

    Yan Mei wrapped her hands around his neck. "Hmm..I don''t believe you." Yan Mei pouted.

    "Then let me show you." Lei Zhao said as his mouth descended on hers. His tongue demanded an entrance and Yan Mei moaned letting him in.

    He sneaked his hands inside her top as he caressed her breasts while nipping her earlobe.

    Yan Mei arched her back as she moaned in pleasure. She kissed his throat, tasting the salt of his skin. Yan Mei pressed small kisses to this throat as she nibbled on his neck.

    Lei Zhao sucked in a ragged breath. He tore her top and Yan Mei gasped.

    "That''s my favorite shirt." Lei Zhao chuckled.

    "Will give you one of mine." Yan Mei ttened her hands on his chest, "Better."

    Lei Zhao smirked and bowed his head kissing her breast.

    "Oh..that feels----"

    Lei Zhao''s circled her nipple. "What?"

    "Wonderful" She moaned out breathless.

    Lei Zhao caressed her breast as he feathered kisses down her soft skin. When he reached her shorts he stopped and looked at her.

    "Let me¡­.get your shorts off.." He said in between deep hungry kisses.

    "O-okay."

    Lei Zhao shredded her shorts and Yan Mei wriggled to free her hips from it.

    Lei Zhao''s mouth imed hers again before moving in between her legs.

    His tongue flicked her clit and Yan Mei grabbed the bedsheet. His mouth teased her sending shivers of sensation through her body.

    Yan Mei felt heat pooling inside her as she arched her hips upward begging him to give her release.

    Lei Zhao pushed two fingers inside her as he licked on her clit. He increased the pace of his fingers inside her while sucking on her clit.

    "You taste...so good." Lei Zhao marveled.

    "Lei Zhao!" Yan Mei moaned and Lei Zhao chuckled.

    "That''s it, love. Cum for me." And as if her body was made to listen to him she withered, her legs trembled as orgasm racked through her body.

    Lei Zhao greedily licked all her juices before mming his mouth on hers. Yan Mei moaned and he slipped his tongue inside making her taste herself on his lips.

    Lei Zhao removed the towel, and Yan Mei felt his hard on pressing at her entrance.

    "Seems my little brother is a little excited to see you and feel you."

    Lei Zhao said huskily as Yan Mei grabbed his dick, sliding him inside her.

    She closed her eyes as she guided him inside her.

    Lei Zhao let out a long groan as he fully buried himself inside her.

    He started slowly moving inside her. Yan Mei sighed and whimpered with pleasure.

    "Lei Zhao¡­" She pleaded, wrapping her legs around his waist.

    Lei Zhao heard the plea as if she was in pain.

    He knew his wife wasn''t a fun of slow sex. She wanted it harder, deeper and faster.

    "Yes, Hermosa?" Lei Zhao teased her knowing exactly what she wants. Lei Zhao continued to slowly thrust inside her.

    "What do you want?" Lei Zhao smirked as he stared at her. Yan Mei''s head was thrown back and her eyes were closed, a look of pure ecstasy on her face.

    "You!.....I want you to make me cum. Please, harder, deeper, faster." Yan Mei painted.

    "Then open your eyes and look at me. Look at how much your body loves me."

    Yan Mei bit her lips and she opened her eyes gazing into his eyes.

    "Please...fuck me."

    That was all Lei Zhao wanted to hear. He groaned and pulled out of her mming back inside her.

    "Lei Zhao!" Yan Mei cried out his name.

    Lei Zhao took one of her legs, cing it on his shoulder as he thrust inside her.

    "Feels so good¡­.you''re mine Wifey. My Hermosa.". Lei Zhao whispered huskily.

    "Oh... my!". Yan Mei moaned as Lei Zhao took her breast in his mouth. He suckled on it as he continued to pound on her..

    Lei Zhao pulled back, "Look at me, you''re mine. My beautiful monster."

    "Yes, yours!"

    Lei Zhao smiled in satisfaction. He flicked her clit with his finger and just that another orgasm shot through Yan Mei.

    "Lei Zhao¡­.Oh fuck!"

    Lei Zhao put her leg down and he buried his face in her neck as he rammed deep inside her. Yan Mei scraped at his back since the orgasm was too much for her to handle.

    Lei Zhao didn''t stop, he continued thrusting faster until he grunted and released himself inside her.

    "I love you." He breathed.

 Chapter 148 Men in Apron

    <h4>Chapter 148 Men in Apron</h4>

    "What are you preparing for breakfast?" Yan Mei asked as she made her way to the kitchen. After their heated session Lei Zhao decided to cook breakfast while she takes a bath.

    Lei Zhao turned around and Yan Mei blinked before bursting intoughter.

    "What are you wearing? Where did you even get that?" She said as she strode towards him.

    Lei Zhao grinned, "I thought women like men in apron." Hemented as he nced at the pink apron he was wearing.

    "Hmm cute. Let me take a picture."

    Yan Mei said and before Lei Zhao could retort she had already taken the picture.

    She stared at the picture and her face broke out into a soft smile. Her husband was really handsome. She said inwardly like a fan girl.

    "Let me see. Is it nice?" Yan Mei hide her phone behind her back and shook her head.

    "No, it''s really ugly!" She said sticking her tongue at Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao shook his head helplessly.

    "Yeah right¡­.I''m sure you fell in love with me all over again just by looking at the picture."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes and set his picture as her screen saver. She nodded in satisfaction before looking up.

    "So...what are cooking, Mr hot Chef?"

    Lei Zhao smirked, "Did you just call me hot? What happened to you''re ugly a few minutes ago?"

    Yan Mei feigned innocence as she sat on the countertop.

    "I said you''re ugly? When? I don''t remember!"

    Lei Zhao chuckled and removed a frying pan from the cab.

    "Guess what I''m preparing for breakfast."

    Yan Mei looked at the oil, milk, flour, eggs and scratched her head. What can you prepare with these things?

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh seeing the confused look on his wife''s face. When ites to cooking his wife was really the dumbest.

    "Your favorite breakfast." Lei Zhao gave her a hint to help her.

    "Pancakes!" Yan Mei beamed as she said.

    Lei Zhao nodded, "Yep. Do you want to help me?"

    Yan Mei nodded and Lei Zhao wrapped his hands around her waist helping her down the counter.

    They both walked towards the stove and Lei Zhao turned on the fire. He poured oil in the frying pan and he waited for a few minutes for the oil to heat before telling Yan Mei to put in the mixture.

    "Becareful." Lei Zhao said softly.

    The moment Yan Mei put the mixture in the oil, a sizzling sound was heard.

    She jumped and hugged Lei Zhao, "Arghh!"

    Lei Zhao panicked, "What? Are you hurt?" Lei Zhao asked worriedly.

    Yan Mei blushed when she realized she was overreacting.

    "No-I-I I''m okay." She cleared her throat.

    Suddenly Lei Zhao widened his eyes and bursted intoughter.

    "Oh my...you¡­" he said in betweenughter.

    "You got scared because of the noise?"

    Yan Mei face burned in embarrassment as she fidgeted.

    "Go and sit. I will serve you when I finish."

    Lei Zhao ceased hisughter as he nted a kiss on her forehead.

    Yan Mei avoided his gaze and walked back to counter.

    ''Arghhh...so embarrassing!'' She inwardly groaned.

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh before focusing on cooking.

    After he was done, he served the food and Yan Mei bowed her head. Not saying anything. Honestly she was too ashamed to talk.

    "Wifey, don''t worry about this. I will teach you how to cook if you want."

    Yan Mei looked up at him and her eyes sparkled in excitement.

    "Really?"

    Lei Zhao nodded. "But I''m afraid you would get hurt and get scars."

    Lei Zhao frowned as he thought about this possibility.

    "I will take care of myself. I really want to cook for you."

    Looking at the expectation in her eyes, Lei Zhao nodded.

    "Alright."

    "Hurry and let me drop you to work. I don''t want you to bete."

    Yan Mei shrugged, "I''m the CEO, who daresin about me beingte?"

    Yan Mei said confidently taking a bite of the pancake.

    Lei Zhao shook his head.

    "Yes madam."

    "Any leads on the person responsible for your ident?"

    Yan Mei asked, looking at Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao frowned and shook his head.

    "No, but very soon. We would find answers."

    Yan Mei frowned but nodded.

    "That..I was thinking we should invite dad for dinner or lunch one of these days. What do you think?"

    Yan Mei''s heart felt warm and she nodded. Hearing Lei Zhao call her father dad made her very happy. It shows he is epting them no matter who or what they are.

    "Hmm let me call him right now.". Yan Mei said excitedly. She couldn''t wait for the two most important people in her live to meet officially.

    Yan Mei dialed her father''s number but it rang for a while no one picked it. She frowned, ''Did something happened?''

    Her father always picked up her call no matter the day, hour, minutes or seconds she calls.

    "Is everything okay?" Lei Zhao asked when he saw the worried frown on his wife''s face.

    "Yeah, it just my dad. Weird he didn''t pick my call. I will call his assistant maybe he is busy."

    Lei Zhao nodded and gave her a ressuring smile.

    Yan Mei called her father''s assistant and he picked up on a single dial.

    "Young Miss!" He greeted polietly but Yan Mei heard the panic in his voice.

    "Where is my father?"

    Yan Mei asked bluntly. She felt a little ufortable.

    "Master¡­.he¡­.has gone to take care of some business. He said if you call I should tell you to be careful and he would be back soon."

    Yan Mei didn''t quite believe him.

    "If I find out you''re lying to me¡­."

    Yan Mei said darkly sending shivers along the man''s spine.

    "Y-yes I''m not lying!" The assistant said hurriedly wipping his sweat.

    "Hmm." Yan Mei hung up the phone and sighed.

    Her father was too powerful, with that thought she rxed.

    She hopes nothing is wrong with him.

 Chapter 149 Vice President

    <h4>Chapter 149 Vice President</h4>

    The elevator dinged as it reached the twenth floor. Yan Mei strode outside, passing through the halls and going to her office.

    Yan Mei can count the number of times she has taken the main entrance to her office and that is, only three times. She always take her private elevator but for some reason she decided to use the main one today.

    "Good morning, President Yan." The employees stopped walking when they saw Yan Meiing and greeted her.

    "Good morning." Yan Mei replied them.

    The employees stiffened and broke into a smile when Yan Mei responded to their greeting. They whispered to themselves looking at Yan Mei''s back.

    "She really responded to our greeting?!"

    "Yeah, this is the first time that the president has responded to us."

    "She doesn''t really look cold today? Can it be because of the mysterious man in the rumors?"

    "Is our president really in love?!"

    Yan Mei had no idea of the chaos she has caused just because she replied to her employees.

    "Good-morning... President Yan.". A timid voice greeted Yan Mei when she passed through thest hall leading to her office.

    Yan Mei stopped in her tracks. She turned towards the person who greeted her and strode slowly towards her.

    She sniffed the air around the woman and frowned.

    "What is that smell?" Yan Mei asked crossing her arms across her chest.

    "Pre---sident Yan,....it must.. be my... perfume." The woman shuttered nervously. Her palm started sweating.

    "Hmm. What is the fifteenth rule in the employee''s manual?". Yan Mei asked coldly scrutinizing the employee.

    The woman busted into tears when she heard Yan Mei. She knew she has been caught.

    "I-I I''m sorry President Yan¡­..I didn''t mean to smoke during working hours. I-"

    "But you did and you lied too." Yan Mei stated.

    Tears ran on the woman''s cheeks as she sniffled, "I''m sorry... president Yan-----I my sister was admitted... at the¡­.hospital and..I need money for surgery¡­"

    Sobs racked through the woman''s making it difficult for her to speak. "She is all I have and I don''t have the money for the surgery. I-I feel like a failure. As an elder sister I can''t even look after her. That''s why I-I smoked. I need to calm down my stress. Please don''t---fire me. This job is all I have."

    The woman pleaded looking at Yan Mei with a pained eyes.

    "What is the third rule in the employee''s manual?" Yan Mei asked with a straight face.

    "Don''t---mix personal life affairs with work."

    Yan Mei nodded,"Good."

    Yan Mei said this and bypassed the woman.. Within three steps she stopped walking.

    "What is the name of your sister and the hospital she is in?" Yan Mei asked without looking at the woman.

    "Kim Chiu, Paradise Hospital.". The woman replied sniffling.

    "Hmm. Wipe your tears, you look ugly."

    With that being said, Yan Mei walked away.

    The woman looked at Yan Mei''s back with a confused frown marred on her face.

    ''I''m I fired?''

    She ignored the curious gazes people were shooting her and rushed towards the washroom.

    The woman looked at herself in the mirror and a sad smile spilled from her lips.

    Her mascara was smeared on her cheeks and she really looked ugly like Yan Mei said.

    She broke into a hystericallyughter then tears.

    "Don''t cry. You have to be strong for your sister." She cheered herself up and washed her face.

    After mentally convincing herself to be strong, she walked out of the washroom.

    The moment she got of the washroom, her phone rang. She panicked when she saw it was from the hospital.

    "Hello, did something happened to my sister?". She asked the moment the call was connected.

    "No, Miss Kim. Your sister''s hospital bills and surgery has been paid. We would be doing her surgery tomorrow."

    The woman broke into tears when she heard the nurse. No one has lend them a helping hand when she was growing up.

    She worked hard to put herself into school while taking care of her sister. Fortunately, when she finished school, shended a job here.

    No one knows her despair when she found out her sister was sick and needed surgery. She wasn''t close to her working colleagues because she didn''t have the luxury of time to socialize.

    The woman had heard of the rumors of how ruthless her boss is but never in her wildest dream did she think her boss would be the one to lend her a helping hand when she needs it the most.

    She doesn''t know how or when but she promised to work hard to pay back Yan Mei one day.

    *******

    The appearance of Yan Mei back in thepany had everyone tensed up. The employees had rxed when Yan Mei wasn''t present but now that she was back everyone was in serious mode.

    Su Bei debriefed Yan Mei on her schedule and their new projectsing along.

    Yan Mei buried herself into piles of work while Su Bei picked up calls.

    "Tired?" Su Bei asked, putting a cup of coffee on Yan Mei''s table.

    Yan Mei groaned and rubbed the back of her neck.

    "Hmm. The list you gave me for the position of vice president, no one fits the position." Yan Mei sighed.

    "What about a promotion?" Yan Mei asked her friend picking up the coffee.

    "A promotion?" Su Bei asked raising her brows.

    Yan Mei nodded, "You graduated on top of your ss right?"

    "Ah? Yes." Su Bei replied awkwardly. She has a feeling she is about to get the shock of her life.

    "You have worked by side for years, you know everything about business management. Why did you apply for an assistant position?"

    Su Bei shrugged, "it was avable at that time and I needed a job."

    Yan Mei nodded taking a sip of her coffee.

    "Are you up for the position of Vice President?"

    Su Bei widened her eyes, "Me? Vice President? Are you sure?"

    "Yes." Yan Mei replied smiling softly at Su Bei

 Chapter 150 Perfect gift

    <h4>Chapter 150 Perfect gift</h4>

    "You''re the only person I can trust to take this position."

    "But what about your secretary? Would you find another?"

    "I''m sure, we would can find someone. All you have to do is agree and the job is yours."

    Su Bei beamed, "Yes, Yes. Thank you. I won''t disappoint you, President Yan."

    Yan Mei nodded, "Congrattions Vice President Su."

    "Thank-"

    Yan Mei''s cellphone vibrating interrupted Su Bei.

    "Hello, Fen-Yan Mei." A familiar voice spoke up.

    Leng Shao find it a little hard to adjust calling Yan Mei by her new name so he always calls her Feng before he corrects himself.

    Yan Mei chuckled, "I don''t know if you''re dumb or you are just forgetful."

    Yan Mei teased her friend when she heard his slip of calling her Feng Mei.

    Leng Shao chuckled, "Hmm. How are you?"

    "I''m good. You?" She asked grinning at Su Bei who was blushing.

    "I''m fine. Do you want to have lunch with me? I had to leave the city because of some business I just came back. Sorry for disappearing without a trace."

    Yan Mei yed with her pen, "Hmm, lunch sounds interesting but I''m busy today maybe tomorrow. How does that sound?"

    "Okay, don''t overwork though. Take care of yourself and see you tomorrow."

    "Hmm. My assistant says Hy. You remember her right?" Yan Mei suddenly said making Su Bei widened her eyes. A trace of panic shed through her eyes and she pointed her finger at Yan Mei who just smirked at her.

    "Oh, Miss Su. Yeah, I remember her. Hope she is good?"

    Yan Mei chuckled, "Why don''t you ask her yourself? She is here, I''m putting the call on loudspeaker."

    Su Bei shook her head as she blushed.

    "Hello, Miss Su." Leng Shao voice sounded making Su Bei''s heart skip a beat.

    "H-hi."

    "Hope you are good?" Leng Shao asked softly.

    "Hmm. I''m good, You?"

    "I''m good too¡­."

    The line went silent for a while with both of them not knowing what to say.

    Yan Mei busted intoughter, wiping her tears.

    "God, both of you are soo cute. I''m totally shipping you guys."

    Leng Shao at the other side frowned as he felt a little ufortable. He wanted to say he wants no one but her. But deep down he knew it wasn''t possible.

    She was already taken by someone.

    Leng Shao coughed to hide his awkwardness.

    "See you tomorrow."

    He hung up the call without waiting for Yan Mei''s reply.

    "So¡­.." Yan Mei started raising her brows at Su Bei once the call ended.

    "So...what?" Su Bei asked embarrassingly as her face turned crimson red.

    Yan Meiughed at her friend''s face.

    "Oh my.. don''t tell you''re blushing from just talking to him on the phone. What would you do if he was right in front of you?"

    Su Bei bit her lips, "Oh shut up!"

    She snapped making Yan Mei chortled.

    "Yes, Vice President Su. I would definitely shut up."

    Su Bei rolled her eyes and ignored Yan Mei.

    "Theunching of the new collection is in a few weeks. If you reveal your marriage at that time I''m sure the stocks of thepany would rise."

    Yan Mei furrowed her brows. Even though if she reveals that she is married to Lei Zhao, herpany stocks would rise. She didn''t want to.

    They have so many enemies now and she didn''t want to risk Lei Zhao''s life.

    "Hmm¡­ I would think about it. Find me a new secretary. Also, I would introduce you to thepany as the new Vice President during the lunch? How?"

    Su Bei smiled and nodded. "Alright."

    "Okay, I would finalize everything after a meeting with the shareholders and executives. Schedule a meeting."

    *******

    "I''m sorry, Boss. I couldn''t protect you."

    Ye Xing bowed his head in shame, standing in front of Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao sighed and rubbed his temples.

    "Don''t me yourself, Ye Xing. I know you did your best. If I had not been too excited to get back home I would have seen that something was wrong."

    Lei Zhao said tapping his fingers on the table.

    "How are you doing?" Lei Zhao asked softly.

    "I''m okay, Boss."

    Lei Zhao nodded.

    "How is the investigation going?"

    Ye Xing furrowed his brows and shook his head.

    "Sorry, Boss. It''s a dead end." Ye Xing heaved a sigh. Whoever caused the ident must be a very dangerous person and powerful too. His boss has so many enemies that it''s hard to find the person responsible for all of this.

    A trace of light passed through Lei Zhao''s eyes as he looked at Ye Xing saying nothing. He knows the longer they dy in finding the person the more worried his wife would be.

    A few minutes passed by before Lei Zhao finally spoke.

    "Hmm What about my wife''s issue. Have you found out what happened five years ago?"

    Ye Xing nodded, "Yes, I have finally find a clue. I''m sure by the end of the month we would get all the answers."

    Lei Zhao nodded, "Hmm. What about Mr. Wang. What has he been up to?" Lei Zhao asked finally looking at Ye Xing.

    "Mr. Wang would be having wedding with Miss Shen next month."

    Lei Zhao''s lips curved into a sardonic smile. "Oh? Then I have to find a gift to congratte him."

    Ye Xing frowned when he heard Lei Zhao. Doesn''t the boss hate Mr. Wang? Why would he send him a gift.

    "Ye Xing¡­.". Lei Zhao called out.

    "Yes Boss!"

    "Hurry, those investigation about what happened five years ago. I don''t care the resources you would use but I need those reports by the end of the month. It would be the perfect gift for Mr. Wang."

    Lei Zhao said with an evil smile on his face.

    He can''t wait to see the look on that bastard face when he finds out that he had thrown out a gem to pick up a stone because of his ego and trust issues.

 Chapter 151 Obsession

    <h4>Chapter 151 Obsession</h4>

    Wang Lu furrowed his brows in annoyance as he pushed away Lisa Shen''s hand which was trailing on his chest.

    "Stop wasting my time, why did you call me here?" Wang Lu said coldly as he moved away from her.

    Lisa rolled her eyes with a yful smirk on her lips.

    "Tch, Tch dear fiance you''re no fun. Is this how to talk to your soon to be wife?" Lisa huffed dejectedly.

    A sh of irritation flowed through Wang Lu.

    "Lisa¡­."

    "Fine, my dad, he wants to talk to you." She mumbled.

    "About what?" Wang Lu asked with a straight face.

    "We are getting married next month-"

    "So?" Wang Lu rudely cut her off.

    A trace of anger shed through Lisa''s eyes but she quickly masked it.

    A tear slipped from her eyes as she bit her lips making her look like she had suffered a great cmity.

    "Don''t you want to marry me anymore?" She asked as her lips trembled making her appearance more pitiful.

    Wang Lu sighed. Any man that sees Lisa''s pitiful appearance would soften but not Wang Lu.

    The more he looks at the tears flowing on her cheeks the more irritated he felt.

    "If you don''t stop crying I might actually cancel the wedding. I don''t want to spend the rest of my life with a crybaby."

    Wang Lu retorted with irritation evident in his voice.

    Lisa Shen widened her eyes at his words and she immediately stopped crying.

    She read in books that guys liked white lotus. Why didn''t her tears work when she acted pitifully?

    "My dad, he wanted to discuss some business with you tonight at dinner." She paused and selected her words carefully.

    Wang Lu nodded and looked at his watch.

    "Hmm is that all?"

    Lisa avoided his gaze and nodded.

    Without saying anything, Wang Lu stood up from the bed and strode towards the door.

    "Wait!" Lisa said causing Wang Lu to stop in his tracks.

    "What do-"

    The moment Wang Lu turned around, he swallowed the words he was going to say.

    The robe Lisa was wearing was pooled on her feet as she stood naked in front of him.

    Wang Lu had to admit Lisa Shen was the woman in every man''s dirty fantasies. Her breast was full and perky. She had all the curves in the right ces.

    But Wang Lu frowned as he found himselfparing Feng Mei with Lisa Shen.

    Even though his Meimei wasn''t as hot or sexy as Lisa he loved every inch of her body.

    A trace of disgust shed through Wang Lu''s eyes.

    "What the hell do you think you''re doing?" Wang Lu bellowed causing Lisa to step back in fright.

    After all, she is the pampered princess of the Shen family and no one has ever raised their voice on her.

    "We going to get married, Wang Lu but you have never touched me or even kissed me. It makes it hard not to believe the rumors!"

    Lisa hissed in irritation. As a woman she feels insulted that Wang Lu has rejected her.

    "What rumors?". Wang Lu asked not even ncing at her naked body.

    "That you''re still obsessed with that cheating bitch ex wife of yours!"

    Wang Lu stiffened as if he has been pped across the face.

    "Don''t be silly, I''m not obsessed with anyone." Wang Lu angrily retorted.

    ''Yeah right, keep lying to yourself.'' His mind taunted him.

    "Then prove it to me. Anytime we tried to do something you stop midway. Also you have never kissed me on the lips. Do I disgust you? Or you are just a loser who can''t get over his ex-wife!"

    Anger roared through Wang Lu''s veins. He didn''t know who the anger was directed to though. Himself or Lisa for pointing out the truth.

    It''s not like he hasn''t tried to move on. When he found out Feng Mei had cheated on him. He tried to move on after the divorce but no one was able to excite him.

    He never felt aroused no matter how hard he tries. His mind keptparing all those women to Feng Mei and he realized none of them is her. His Meimei.

    "You can''t even deny-"

    Lisa''s words were cut off as Wang Lu strode towards her with anger in his eyes. The anger and irritation she saw on his face made her stepped back in fear but Wang Lu didn''t give her the chance.

    He pulled her and her naked body mmed towards against his chest..

    He had his hand pinned behind her back in a tight grip as he mmed his lips to hers.

    He kissed her harshly without any gentleness or passion. It''s like he wanted to punish her. Lisa Shen groaned in pain when he bit her lips.

    Wang Lu pulled away from her and wiped his lips as if he was disgusted with her.

    "What did you say?" He asked harsly, the anger evident in his voice made her legs wobbled in fear.

    She shook her head as tears blurred her eyes.

    "N-nothing. I''m sorry!"

    Wang Lu''s eyes suddenly zed in anger.

    "This would be thest time you would talk to me like that or talk about my wife like that."

    Lisa Shen widened her eyes.

    "You-mean ex-wife.". She shuttered as she said.

    Wang Lu froze when he realized his mistake. He pulled away from Lisa and walked out of the room without looking back at her.

    Lisa fell on the floor as sobs racked through her. He would never love her. She has always been in love with Wang Lu since they were young. Their parents were friends so she would see him anytime her mother visited Mrs. Wang, Wang Lu''s mother.

    She had promised herself that one day she would marry him but she went to the states to study when she came back she heard so much had happened.

    He was already married but fortunately he had divorced the woman. But it seems he has never stopped loving that woman. That bitch!

    An mad light shed through Lisa''s eyes as she chuckled.

 Chapter 152 Threat

    <h4>Chapter 152 Threat</h4>

    Wang Lu racked his fingers through his hair in frustration.

    Feng Mei¡­.Feng Mei¡­.Meimei!

    Wang Lu was enraged at himself. Now he is totally convinced that, the woman is a witch. She has bewitched him. Even after everything she has done to him, he can''t forget her.

    When would he be able to move on and forget about that woman?!

    Wang Lu broke the pen between his fingers in two pieces as a great temor of anger boiled within him.

    He can''t believe he had defended that woman after everything she has done to him.

    God, he must be the biggest fool on Earth. Wang Lu was so angry with himself that he had not noticed someone had been in his office and left a note on his desk.

    "Sir!" His secretary Qin Zhi called Wang Lu thrice but he was too lost in his thoughts to even hear him.

    "Sir, are you okay?!" It was only when the secretary screamed with panic did Wang Lu look up.

    "What do you want?" Wang Lu asked angrily.

    The secretary swallowed nervously. "I wanted to inform you that the meeting is about to start."

    "Hmm." Wang Lu said indifferently. Clearly he wasn''t in the mood to attend a meeting but thinking about the casualties he had suffered in the fire he knew he had to attend the meeting.

    His stocks had plummeted when one of his stores had caught fire. Now he had to go along with his mother''s schemes to marry Lisa Shen to raise the stocks again.

    Wang Lu pinched in between his brows.

    "I would be there soon." The secretary nodded and left Wang Lu''s to his thoughts.

    Suddenly Wang Lu frowned when he saw the white paper on his desk. He had been too lost in his thoughts to notice the paper when he came in.

    He picked up the paper and the content on it made his blood turn cold.

    "Feng Mei has be beautiful. Too bad she isn''t yours to protect anymore. Hahahaha. Both of you should enjoy yourst peaceful days because I''m going to enjoy watching you suffer. GZ"

    Wang Lu crumpled the paper in anger as veins popped out his neck.

    "Qin Zhi!!" Wang Lu roared out his secretary''s name.

    "S-sir¡­" Qin Zhi quickly rushed here when he heard Wang Lu calling him.

    "Who came to my office?" Wang Lu asked as he shook in anger.

    "No-no one apart from the cleaner.". Wang Lu furrowed his brows.

    "Are you sure?"

    "Yes, Sir."

    Wang Lu frowned, he knew there is no way he was going to find the person who sent this. The person wouldn''t leave behind any clues.

    But deep down, Wang Lu felt an intense panic tugging at his heart. Who has such a grudge against him and Feng Mei?

    He knew he had many enemies but only a few knew about him and Feng Mei. And everyone knows he had divorced her five years ago so who would target both of them.

    Suddenly Wang Lu widened his eyes as a name rang in his head. The initials matched with the name exactly.

    No way...no no he killed him. It can''t be him!

    That man is a psychopath, whose madness knew no bounds. He really hopes it''s not him.

    "Sir, is everything okay?" His secretary asked.

    "Yes, you can leave now."

    "Sir the meeting-"

    The cold nce of Wang Lu made the secretary swallowed his words. He quickly left his boss alone.

    Wang Lu began pacing back and forth in front of the floor to ceiling window of his office. He knew he was overreacting but that man is the only person he can think of that has a bad blood with him and Feng Mei.

    "No... it''s definitely not him. I killed him myself and watched him die." Wang Lu mumbled as he ran his fingers through his head.

    Removing his phone from his pocket he dialed a number.

    "Boss!" A voice sounded the moment the call was connected.

    "Go to City S and protect a woman called Yan Mei. I would send you her details." Wang Lu ordered.

    "Yes, Boss."

    Wang Lu hung up the call and blew out air. Even though he hated Yan Mei for cheating on him, he couldn''t let her go.

    He had promised her parents to protect her, and now that a threat was lurking in the shadows he had to protect her. Also, he might be the reason for the threat.

    ''It''s toote for that don''t you think?''

    Wang Lu felt as though a vivacious storm was approaching and a lot of people were going to get hurt.

    ****************************************

    A man pulled the trigger of a gun and a rush of satisfaction coursed through him when his victim cried out in pain.

    Howls of pain echoed in the room but the man just stood there unfazed.

    "Does it hurt?" He asked with a sinister smile on his face.

    "Screw you, you monster!" The victim screamed as he clutched his groin.

    The man scratched his nose with a bored look on his face. He sighed deeply.

    Squatting, he looked at the victim in the eyes.

    "I don''t have the patience for this, so stop testing."

    The victim bloodied lips curled into a smirk.

    "Even if you kill me, I won''t tell you what I know!''

    The man chuckled humorlessly."I have to admit I like your foolishness. Such a shame you would drag your innocent daughter with you. I heard she is pretty. She would be a nice ve to warm my bed, wouldn''t she?"

    His men snickered as they licked their lips at their boss''s words.

    Fear shes in the man''s eyes as his eyes grew bigger and his bodypletely froze.

    "Looks like you have a change of heart so start talking."

    "I-"

    The victims words were interrupted when the man''s phone rang.

    "Boss, I have given the message to Wang Lu."

    A husky voice sounded once the call was connected.

    "Oh? Hahaha. Good. Do you have the video I asked you to find?"

    "Yes, Boss."

    "Hmm...I heard Miss Yan is about tounch a new collection. Maybe it''s time we paid her a visit."

 Chapter 153 Life is hard

    <h4>Chapter 153 Life is hard</h4>

    Aftering back from workte,st night. Liam woke up famished. The smell of eggs and coffee wafted through the air making his stomach rumbled.

    Liam frowned in confusion. He couldn''t cook and there was no maid in his house to cook for him this morning so who was cooking right now?

    Maybe it was his mom since she is the only one who has an extra key to his apartment.

    Groaning, he got down from the bed and brushed his teeth. After he was done freshening up, he threw on a tank top and sweat pants before making his way downstairs.

    Liam stopped at the doorway when he realized the person who was cooking was Ying Sheng.

    Ying Sheng was standing at the stove flipping eggs. Her red hair was tied in a messy bun and she was wearing an oversized T-shirt which reach mid-thighs and shorts underneath showing her beautiful long legs.

    An image of Ying Sheng wrapping her legs around his torso as they lock their lips in a heated kiss shed through Liam''s eyes.

    Suddenly his cock twitch and Liam shook his head to get the image out. Clearly, he was hungry and not thinking properly.

    Anytime he sees Ying Sheng his mind gets dirtier. It''s like she is his kryptonite weakening his pure mind.

    "Hey" Ying Sheng greeted softly with a small smile as she turned to look at him.

    "Bacon, eggs and toast. Is it okay for you?" Ying Sheng inquired.

    Flustered, Liam scratched his nose and nodded.

    "That would be great, thank you."

    Ying Sheng nodded and went back to the egg banter she was making.

    "Sit down, the food would be ready in a few minutes."

    Liam sat down at the counter and stared at her silently as she poured the egg banter in the fry pan.

    His lips curved into a soft smile when he saw how happy she looked. It seems she was now much better.

    "Food is readddyyyyy¡­." Ying Sheng said excitedly a few minutester, as she ced tes containing eggs and bacon on the counter.

    As if on cue, Liam''s stomach growled at the sight of the food and he could feel the blush as it spreads across his face.

    Ying Sheng chuckled causing him to blush even more.

    "Seems someone is hungry." Ying Shengmented as she poured both of them a cup of coffee.

    Liam smiled embarrassingly without saying anything. He took a experimental sip of the coffee and he widened his eyes. It was surprisingly good.

    "Are you busy at work? You didn''te home earlyst night.". Ying Sheng asked as she filled his te with bacon, toast and eggs before serving herself.

    Warm current flowed through Liam. The scenario was like they were married couples. And his wife was asking him how is work while serving him breakfast.

    He did his best to keep a steady hand on his cup of coffee before he spills it all over him in excitement.

    Liam broke into a soft smile and nodded.

    "Hmm, I was working on a project but I have finally finalized everything yesterday."

    Liam said as he popped some bacons in his mouth. He moaned in delight.

    "I didn''t know you can cook. This is really good!"

    Ying Sheng broke into a crooked grin, "d you like it."

    Liam grinned and took a sip of his coffee."Where did you learn how to cook?" Liam asked, watching her over the rim of his coffee cup.

    "The nanny who raised me. She thought me how to cook. She said one day if she is not there, she hopes I can take care of myself."

    Ying Sheng answered truthfully as sadness flickered in her eyes. Unfortunately, the nanny died before she came back from the states.

    "Oh? She must be proud of you then. Because this is really good." Liammented.

    Ying Sheng let out a chuckle as she remembered their times together.

    "How can you be so sure?"

    Ying Sheng asked and rolled her eyes. "This is hardly a feast. Wait until I prepare you real food or taste my special baking recipes."

    Ying Sheng said boastfully as she absently stirred the surface of her coffee with the tip of her forefinger before sucking it into her mouth with a small wet pop.

    Liam arched a perfect eyebrow at her, his eyes twinkling.

    "I can''t wait to taste more of your cooking then."

    Ying Sheng licked her lips and nodded.

    Liam gaze fell on her lips and a flush crept on his neck.

    Ying Sheng let out a chuckle.

    "Why are you blushing? Don''t tell me you''re having dirty fantasies this early morning, Cutie."

    Ying Sheng teased him making Liam blush even more.

    Ying Sheng shook her head and sighed heavily.

    They are ate in silence and a few times that Ying Sheng would catch Liam ncing at her, he would turn bright red and looked away.

    Ying Sheng smirked in return. If she didn''t know that Liam already liked a girl she would have thought that he liked her.

    But remembering how bad he looked after seeing that woman in another man''s arms Ying Sheng knew that Liam might really like the woman.

    ''Lucky bitch.'' Ying Sheng thought. Liam was the most caring man she has ever met. Ying Sheng couldn''t help but feel a little jealous of that woman.

    She has found a nice man like Liam who cearly loves her. Unlike her, Ying Sheng whose crush doesn''t even care about her.

    Thinking about Han Xi, Ying Sheng''s mood couldn''t help but dampened.

    After theirst episode he had called her everyday to check up on her but suddenly he stopped. Maybe he got busy again with that girlfriend of his.

    Life is really hard. Those you want don''t even want you.

    Ying Sheng bit her lips as she pouted. As if sensing her mood, Liam looked up at her.

    "Are you okay?" He asked softly pulling Ying Sheng out of her thoughts.

 Chapter 154 Mommyâ€™s little boy

    <h4>Chapter 154 Mommy''s little boy</h4>

    "Yes, I''m fine." Liam raised his brows but said nothing.

    "So¡­.how are things with that girl?" Ying Sheng inquired.

    "What girl?" Liam asked with a confused frown marred on his face.

    "The one you were going to ask out but saw her hugging another guy."

    Liam froze for a moment, before replying to her.

    "Oh¡­.ahhh good I guess."

    Ying Sheng narrowed her eyes but said nothing.

    "Aren''t you going to school today?" Liam asked, trying to change the subject. He didn''t want to talk about the mystery girl with Ying Sheng because he was afraid he would slip and tell her that she was the one he was talking about.

    He didn''t want to risk their friendship since it just started and she was starting to open up to him. One day when the time is right, he would tell her.

    "I''m not going back to that school. Why should I waste my time studying a course I totally hate. I would rather sleep with my time."

    Liam shed a soft smile and nodded in understanding.

    "So what do you want to do now?"

    Ying Sheng shrugged, "I don''t know honestly. Now I would take one step at a time. I would focus on my cousin-inw''s jewelleryunch and see if anything would interest me."

    "What was your favorite subject in high school?" Liam suddenly asked.

    Ying Sheng bit her lips as her brows knitted.

    "I''m pretty smart. I was on top of my ss in the states actually. I thought as long as I did well my parents would be proud of me and notice me but I guess they didn''t really care." Ying Sheng said nonchntly. Her parents were a sour topic for her and she hated talking about them.

    Liam smiled warmly at her but he said nothing waiting for her to continue.

    "But I liked maths though. It seems like numbers and I get kinda along.

    "Then why don''t you study ounting?"

    Ying Sheng scrunched her face in thought.

    "Yeah but I have other interests but I''m afraid people wouldugh at me if I tell them."

    "Oh? What interest do you have I promise I won''tugh at you. So tell me."

    Ying Sheng grinned, "My own coffee shop and bakery. There would be a ss disy of cookies and cakes baked with my special recipes. I want people''s day to brighten or mood to get better when they eat from my coffee shop. It would be cozy where families can just hang out with their kids. Also I even want to sell ice cream there if possible Stupid right¡­.?

    Ying Sheng busted intoughter as she said.

    A boyish grin formed on Liam''s face, "No. It isn''t. You can do it. You can take ounting ss and part time culinary ss to sharpen your skills. By the time you finish school you can have all the necessary skills to open your coffee shop."

    "You think so?"

    Liam nodded, "You can make a name for yourself and proved to yourself and others that you don''t need them to survive. You''re a survivor on your own."

    Ying Sheng''s eyes sparkled with excitement as she looked at Liam with wide eyes. Before she could think of it further she leaned forward and pressed a soft kiss on Liam''s cheeks.

    "Thank you, Liam for believing in me." Ying Sheng said softly.

    With a faint flush on his cheeks, Liam smiled softly at her and sipped his coffee.

    "Can you help me with the admission process?" Ying Sheng asked Liam.

    "Hmm. Alright."

    "I don''t want a high ss school. A low key school where no one knows me would be much better."

    "Alright."

    After breakfast, Ying Sheng went to take a shower and changed into a pair of skinny jeans and ck shirt paired with a red stiletto.She stared at herself in the mirror clearly she was a little nervous about the photo shoot.

    She didn''t want to disappoint Yan Mei so she had watched videos about models and how to pose in front of a camera.

    She had never thought about having a model career because of the strictness in the industry.

    You need to starve yourself to look a certain way or fake your way of living in front of the camera.

    Ying Sheng blew out air and tried to convince herself she can do this but deep down she was failing miserably.

    "Ying Sheng are you done?!" Liam''s voice broke her out of her thoughts.

    "Yes, I''ming." Liam had offered to drop her off, since today is a big day for her.

    Ying Sheng couldn''t help but be grateful if she had a friend like Liam. If she didn''t meet him, maybe she wouldn''t be alive today.

    She walked out of the room and saw Liam waiting for her in the living room. She has to admit, he was really handsome with his good boy aura and gentleness.

    He was the perfect prince charming in girls'' fantasies. Too bad she doesn''t believe in fairytales. She has experienced the harsh reality of life to believe in those things.

    Liam stood up from the couch and smiled at her.

    "Are you nervous for your first official job?" He asked as a boyish grin graced his face.

    Ying Sheng nodded.

    "Yeah, I''m afraid I''m going to mess this up."

    Liam shook his head and strode towards her.

    He grabbed her shoulders,"Take a deep breath. Inhale, exhale."

    Ying Sheng did as he said.

    "Now, just believe in yourself. Remember you''re your own greatest cheerleader in life. Just go there and be yourself. I''m sure you would do great. Fighting?"

    Ying Sheng chuckled and nodded.

    "Fighting!"

    Liam broke into a smile. Ying Sheng couldn''t help but also smile.

    "I didn''t know you watch Korean dramas." Ying Shengmented as they walked towards Liam''s car.

    "I don''t really. I apany my mother to watch once a while."

    "Aww mommy''s little boy aren''t you?"

    Liam blushed and shook his head. Opening the car door for her.

 Chapter 155 What do you see?

    <h4>Chapter 155 What do you see?</h4>

    When Ying Sheng arrived at the scheduled ce for the photo shoot she realized no one was there except the camera crew, make up artist and stylist.

    Because Yan Mei wanted to make her more mysterious to the public she didn''t reveal who the face of her new collection was to the media. Also, because she didn''t want the news to leak, she arranged a private photo shoot for Ying Sheng.

    She was ushered into a room where the make up artist was.

    "Hello darling!" Ying Sheng was greeted by a man. He was skinny and tall and had on a pair of ck skinny jeans and ck T-shirt.

    His dark hair was styled up in the front and he had some piercing in the nose.

    "Hello." Ying Sheng nodded politely. She didn''t want to cause problems for Yan Mei so she was really polite and respectful to the workers.

    "How are you girl?!" The man squealed excitedly as if he and Ying Sheng were long term friends. But no, they just met.

    "I''m good you?" Ying Sheng asked awkwardly. She was not used to people treating her so well in their first meeting.

    "I''m fantabulous! After all, I get to perform my special magic on such a beautiful girl like you."

    Ying Shengughed at his enthusiasm.

    "Okay. Then let''s see what you got." Ying Sheng said.

    "Oh darling, I like you already and I don''t really like a lot of people!" He said, winking at Ying Sheng.

    He ushered Ying Sheng into a chair.

    "Miss Yan said she is going for something fierce, chic and elegant at the same time sexy. Let''s see if I can perform that magic."

    An hour and thirty minutester, Ying Sheng stared at herself in the mirror and blinked. She couldn''t believe the person staring back at her was her. She had to admit she looked gorgeous.

    Her usually long red hair was pinned into a knot at the back of her head showing her beautiful long neck.

    Ying Sheng felt so formal and elegantpared to her normal self. Her hand subconsciously went to her throat where a diamond ga choker neid.

    A matching earrings sitting on her ears magnificently looked beautiful on her. Her face was contoured and she had a dark and sultry look; winger liner, boldshes and dark red lipstick toplete the look.

    "Oh my you look amazing!" The stylist beamed excitedly as he pped his hands.

    "You just made a gay man think about turning straight for you!"

    Ying Sheng just stared at herself as she exhaled sharply, her nerves were starting to act up and her palms began to sweat and feel hot.

    "Are you nervous?" A soft voice asked,making Ying Sheng turn around. She stood up when she saw it was Yan Mei.

    "Cousin-inw." Ying Sheng said as a faint blush made its way on her face.

    Yan Mei nodded and smiled softly at her.

    "You look beautiful."

    Ying Sheng bit her lips and smiled, "Thank you."

    Yan Mei turned to look at the stylist who was waiting for Yan Mei to praise him but Yan Mei just ignored him.

    She strode towards Ying Sheng and turned her around to look at her reflection in the mirror.

    Yan Mei stood behind Ying Sheng and grabbed her shoulders gently.

    "What do you see?" Yan Mei asked as she met Ying Sheng''s eyes in the mirror.

    Ying Sheng swallowed and her lips curved into a sophisticated smile.

    "A beautiful woman who isn''t me? I feel like this isn''t me. I''m not this elegant, chic and sexy."

    Ying Sheng said as she dropped her gaze in the mirror.

    Yan Mei chortled when she heard Ying Sheng.

    "Do you know why I chose you for this?" Yan Mei asked which made Ying Sheng frown in confusion.

    "Why?"

    "When I first saw you I saw the same look I had when I was your age in your eyes. You feel like you don''t fit in and no one understands you. But that''s the beauty of being you."

    Ying Sheng''s frown deepened in more confusion.

    "This whole thing is to help you build your confidence and make you realize your self-worth, Ying Sheng. The woman in the mirror is you. You''re bold, sexy, chic, fierce and everything you want to be. It all depends if you''re ready to step out of that bad girl image you have built to protect yourself from society and find the real you."

    "Real me?" Ying Sheng murmured as she looked at her reflection in the mirror.

    "Yes, real you. So who are you, Ying Sheng?"

    Yan Mei whispered softly in Ying Sheng''s ears

    Suddenly the voice of the photographer sounded interrupting them.

    "Show me who you are in front of the camera. Remember, have fun and just be you."

    Yan Mei said as she walked out of the dressing room.

    Ying Sheng stared at Yan Mei''s back, falling in a deep thought.

    ''What does she mean?''

    Ying Sheng was snapped out of her thoughts when she felt the stylist slipping a ring on her finger.

    "Remember I''m cheering for you! I''m sure after this you would be a big sensation in the country. The born of a star!"

    Ying Sheng chuckled and rolled her eyes at the stylist.

    "Put one elbow on the table and gently touch your neck looking at the white board there.Then give your best savage look."

    The photographer instructed which Ying Sheng did perfectly. Even though this was her first time in front of the cameras she did exceptionally well listening to Yan Mei''s advice.

    She didn''t try to be someone she wasn''t. Or force to look her certain way. This was her, being bold, sexy, fierce and chic.

    Ying Sheng spent the rest of the afternoon changing into different outfits and striking different poses.

    Modelling was so difficult, sigh. Why do these girls go through all of this? Ying Shengined bitterly even though she was clearly enjoying herself in front of the camera.

    Her favorite pose was her wearing a floppy big ck hat covering half of her face and pearls nes adorning her throat. She felt she exude elegance, sensual and mysteriousness.

 Chapter 156 Gladiator

    <h4>Chapter 156 diator</h4>

    After Ying Sheng finished the photo shoot she was beat tired. Her neck was stiff and her body was aching.

    "Good job, Miss Ying. It''s hard to believe that this is your first time in front of the camera."

    The photographer said as he looked at the photos with a satisfied smile on his lips.

    "Thank you!" Ying Sheng bowed slightly at the photographer.

    "The photographer had tried to convince Ying Sheng to try modelling but Ying Sheng had refused. Too much was going on in her life and she didn''t want to add the stress of the media to it.

    "If you ever change your mind, give me a call." The photographer said as he handed Ying Sheng a card.

    Ying Sheng nodded and epted it. After saying goodbye to the crew, Ying Sheng walked out of the building.

    Surprisingly she saw Liam waiting for her. He was leaning on his car wearing a slim fitting jeans, maroon v-neck and a pair of sneakers.

    He was looking at the ground so he didn''t see Ying Shenging out.

    "Is that your boyfriend? Oh he is hot!" The stylist voice sounded behind Ying Sheng causing her to froze.

    ''Boyfriend? She and Liam?''

    Even though she liked teasing him, she has never seen him in such a way. After all, she already liked someone.

    "Huh, no. He is just a friend."

    The stylist widened his eyes, "You''re letting such a cute and handsome guy go? Girl, what''s wrong with you. Too bad he''s straight! I would have-"

    A cold nce from Ying Sheng made him shut up.

    "What are you doing here?"

    "Oh I forgot to take your contact. We should definitely hang out sometime." The stylist said giving his phone to Ying Sheng.

    Ying Sheng entered her number and run towards Liam.

    "Liam!" She called out making Liam look up at her.

    He shed her a soft smile and gave her the diolus flower he was holding.

    Ying Sheng lowered her head and brushed the petals against her nose.

    "Thank you, I have never received a flower from a boy before.".

    Liam narrowed her eyes, "Well, I guess it''s their loss then."

    Ying Sheng shrugged smiling lightly. She has always envied those girls whose boyfriend would get them flowers or choctes.

    "The flower when I saw it it reminded me of you."

    Liam said making Ying Sheng looked up at him. She raised her brows, "Me?"

    "Hmm? diolus flower represent strength and persistent. You''re strong."

    "Strong? That''s the funniest thing I have heard today".

    Ying Sheng arched her brows at him.

    "Yes, strong. You didn''t fall apart from everything happing to you. Yeah you have your break downs but like a diator you always stand up and face the battle with your head held high. You can still smile with everything going on and continue to be the infamous Miss Ying."

    Ying Sheng opened her mouth and blinked a couple of times.

    "Was that supposed to be apliment?" She questioned making a faint blush taint Liam''s ears.

    "Hmm. I guess?" Liam said awkwardly. ''Did I say too much?''

    Clutching the flowers, Ying Sheng nted a kiss on Liam''s cheeks.

    "Thank you, Liam."

    Liam flushed and nodded. "You''re wee."

    "So...have you been waiting for a long time? Why didn''t youe in?" Ying Sheng asked.

    Liam rubbed the back of his neck, "No not really I just got here."

    ''Liar. You have been waiting for almost an hour.'' His mind screamed at him.

    "So how did it go? Did you have fun?" Liam asked softly as he opened the car door for her.

    "Yes, I had so much fun! Changing into different outfits and wearing expensive jewelleries.

    "I thought you hated jewelleries and dresses." Liam asked chuckling softly.

    "Oh I do! But diamonds are a girl''s best friend. And I got to wear lots of diamond jewellery."

    "Hmm." Liam nodded without saying anything.

    "What about you, how was work?" Ying Sheng asked ying with the flower in her hands. It was really beautiful.

    "Not bad but definitely not good." Liam said with a sigh.

    "Oh is your boss a bastard who is overworking you?" Ying Sheng asked raising her brows.

    Liam stifled a chuckle and shook his head. He was his own boss how can someone overwork him?

    "No. No one is making me overwork."

    "That''s good." Suddenly Ying Sheng stomach growled.

    She pouted, "Gosh, I''m hungry."

    Liam chortle, "You and food. What would you like to eat?"

    "Anything as long as it''s delicious."

    Liam nodded and drove them to a luxurious restaurant. You needed reservation for months before you can eat at this restaurant but being close friends with the owner had its perks.

    "Josmay Restaurant?" Ying Sheng raised her brows as she asked.

    "This restaurant is fucking expensive Liam. Don''t tell me you''re using your pay to bring me here. Also, don''t we need reservations?"

    Liam chuckled and shook his head.

    "No, I went to school with the owner so I kinda have a VIP membership card here."

    "Oh"

    Liam led Ying Sheng inside the restaurant and they were greeted by the manager whose name Liam doesn''t even remember.

    They were ushered inside a private room and a waitresse to take their orders.

    For some reason Ying Sheng was annoyed by the way the waitress was staring at Liam.

    "Okay, hun we have finished ordering you can go now."

    Ying Sheng snapped at the waitress. The waitress blushed in embarrassment when she heard Ying Sheng and left them.

    "There is no need to be rude, Ying Sheng. She was trying to be polite."

    Ying Sheng snorted and crossed her arms across her chest ignoring Liam.

    Liam heaved a sigh. "Are you angry?" He asked softly but Ying Sheng still ignored him.

    "If I don''t know better I would say you''re jealous, Ying Sheng."

    Liam said as he chuckled. Ying Sheng stiffened when she heard him.

    Was she jealous? No, okay maybe she felt a little ufortable by how Liam was smiling softly at the waitress. But was that jealousy?

 Chapter 157 Good girls donâ€™t lie

    <h4>Chapter 157 Good girls don''t lie</h4>

    The next day, Liam knocked on Ying Sheng''s door.

    "Come in," She responded when she heard the knock. She knew it was Liam.

    The door opened and Liam walked in. Ying Sheng couldn''t help but check him out. He was wearing jeans and white shirt that fitted him perfectly.

    She was a normal woman and it was perfectly normal to check out a handsome guy.

    "What is it?" Ying Sheng asked ying a game on her mobile phone.

    "Since you''re going to be staying here for a while,and you didn''t bring any clothes with you just the few ones I got you. I was thinking you should go shopping and choose the clothes you like."

    Ying Sheng nced at him and raised her brows,"Why go through the hassle of shopping when I can just buy a whole shop of clothes?"

    Liam looked at her with a knowing look and Ying Sheng sighed. She really need clothes but the thought of shopping was already giving her a headache.

    "Shopping would be good for you. You have been inside the whole day aren''t you bored?"

    "Erh no? I''m ying my favorite game released by my male god why would I be bored? Now if you would be so kind to leave, you''re distracting me."

    Looking at his serious face Ying Sheng knew he wouldn''t leave untill she has agreed to this shopping spree.

    "Okay, fine I would go." Ying Sheng gave up and closed the game she was ying. If Liam had been closer he would have seen the game was the new game he had released just a few days ago.

    "Good,take this,". He said while taking a credit card from his wallet.

    "Buy whatever you want as long as you are happy."

    Ying Sheng raised her brows at him. "Seriously? You''re giving me your pay to spend on clothes? I''m a rich heiress while you''re just a young man working why would I take your hard earned money?"

    Ying Sheng shook her head as she looked at him with a serious expression.

    Liam stared at her for a few seconds before bursting intoughter.

    Ying Sheng was clearly confused by his reaction.

    She wasn''t expecting him tough at what he said.

    "What?" She asked with a confused frown marred on her face.

    "I can afford some few clothes Ying Sheng. I''m not that poor." He spoke and handed her his credit card.

    "That''s not the point. But I think you should spend your hard earned money on something more important not-"

    "Who said you''re not important?" Liam said cutting her off.

    Ying Sheng groaned, "I-you''re really stubborn Cutie."

    Liam chuckled, "I learnt from the best teacher."

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes, "Whatever. But I''m not spending your money."

    "Why do you like to argue so much? You''re taking my credit card. End of discussion." Liam said as he fleed from the room not giving her the chance to refuse.

    Ying Sheng changed into her usual outfit. ck skinny jeans and ck shirt with gold jeans adorning her neck and a pair of sneakers.

    When she came downstairs she saw Liam sitting on the couch with a beautiful girl. Ying Sheng had to admit, the girl was really pretty. You see those trophy wives, businessmen liked to show off with at parties?

    Yes, she was definitely like one of them with her blonde long hair and perfect body. The girl said something which caused Liam to smile. The biggest smile Ying Sheng has ever seen on his face.

    Even though Ying Sheng didn''t want to admit it, seeing Liam smiled like that bothered her that he has never smiled like that with her.

    Ying Sheng walked up to them, "Cutie who is this?" Ying Sheng said scrutinizing the woman in front of her.

    "Ying Sheng, this is Dong Yishan, I was thinking you can go with her for the shopping."

    Ying Sheng narrowed her eyes at Liam and he shed her smile in return.

    "Hi, it''s nice to meet you." Dong Yishan squealed in excitement.

    "Oh? I wish I can say the same thing about you. But that would be a lie and good girls don''t lie."

    Ying Sheng said faking a smile.

    Dong Yishan excited face fell and she looked at Liam. Liam sighed, "Ying Sheng has a thing for jokes. Don''t get offended Dongdong."

    Dong Yishan smiled and engulfed Ying Sheng in a hug. "It''s okay. I''m sure me and Miss Ying would be friends after the shopping."

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes. Who was this girl? From her name she knew the girl wasn''t rted to Liam. Not like she knows Liam''s surname though. Maybe she is the girl Liam likes?

    "Let''s go shopping!" She squealed and grabbed Ying Sheng''s hand and pulled her outside of the house before she can protest.

    Ying Sheng nced back and saw Liam grinning at her.

    "Have fun!" He smiled at her.

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes as she got in the car.

    An awkward silence fell in the car as Ying Sheng yed with her phone.

    "So...how did you and Liam met?" Dong Yishan asked ncing at Ying Sheng.

    "At a strip club." Ying Sheng replied with a shrug.

    Dong Yishan widened her eyes in disbelief.

    "Really?"

    Ying Sheng nodded with a straight face. She watched in amusement as certain emotions yed on Dong Yishan''s face.

    "What about you? Who are you to Cutie." Ying Sheng asked as casual as she can but it stille out bitter.

    "Cutie? You mean Liam?"

    Ying Sheng nodded.

    "Aww, is that a nicky for him? That''s cute!"

    Ying Sheng lips twitched slightly but she looked on her phone.

    "Oh no need to be hostile to me Ying Sheng. I won''t steal your cutie from you." She said throwing a subtle wink at Ying Sheng.

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes for the nth time today.

    "Trust me, there is nothing between us. We are childhood best friend. I''m like a little sister to Liam." Dong Yishan exined.

 Chapter 158 What are friends for?

    <h4>Chapter 158 What are friends for?</h4>

    "Oh," Ying Sheng said nonchntly.

    "It''s nice to see Liam care for a girl. He must really like you!" Dong Yishan said while ncing at Ying Sheng with a smile on her face.

    No. It''s not true. How can Liam like her when she was a mess. She was sure no one would want a broken girl like her. Also, Liam likes another person.

    Suddenly Ying Sheng arched her brows. Can Dong Yishan be the girl Liam likes? After all, she knew how it was like to be in unrequited love.

    Ying Sheng flinched at the thought that the girl might be Dong Yishan.

    "No, Liam already likes somebody else. Also, I have someone I like."

    "He likes someone?" Dong Yishan asked as she parked the car into the parking shot.

    Ying Sheng shrugged ignoring her question and got out of the car. They walked into the huge mall and they made their way to the clothes store.

    ***********

    Ying Sheng was growing seriously bored. It''s been two hours of nonstop picking of clothes and trying it on. Ying Sheng had no idea of the clothes Dong Yishan picked. Her head was literally buried on her phone the all time. Letting Dong Yishan picked the clothes.

    Now she was fucking tired and the girl was still adamant about buying lots of clothes. Ying Sheng didn''t understand some women obsession about shopping. Why go through all these hassles?!

    Dong Yishan had made them buy from lot of stores all kinds of designer brand and now they were holding tons of bags. Ying Sheng kept looking around.

    She felt her image would be destroyed if someone saw her holding shopping bags.

    "Can we now eat? I would faint any moment from hunger." Ying Sheng said faking exhaustion.

    "Fine, let''s take a few break and continueter." Dong Yishan said.

    Did this crazy woman say and continueter? Ying Sheng took a deep breath and nodded her head. She was afraid she might snapped at her.

    The few hours she has spent with Dong Yishan she realized she was really a sweet girl.

    They entered a cafe not far from the current store they were and ordered what they wanted to eat.

    Ying Sheng tapped her feet impatiently as they waited for their food to arrive. The food arrived a few minutes and she dug in.

    "So tell me about yourself, Ying Sheng. You seem like an interesting person."

    Ying Sheng looked up at Dong Yishan and saw her eyes flickering with curiosity.

    "You don''t really know me?" Ying Sheng asked surprised. This is the first time she has met someone from high society who doesn''t know her.

    From her conversation she learned that Dong Yishanes from a family of miners. Her family dealt with everything that women loved.

    From diamond, gold, bauxite, gemstones. Name it. So they were really rich but surprisingly she was too sweet and humble to be from a rich home.

    Ying Sheng wondered where Liam met such wealthy friends. First his friend owned one of the most expensive restaurant in town and the other was the heiress of a mining empire.

    "No? Sorry but I traveled to Australia a few years ago. I just came back." Dong Yishan said looking at Ying Sheng.

    "Hmm. " Ying Sheng finally understood why she didn''t know her.

    "Nothing interesting about me at all. I''m just the monster parents tell their kids to hide away from."

    Ying Sheng said tly hoping she wouldn''t push the subject.

    "Are you serious? Or you are joking again?" Ying Sheng smirked at her.

    "What do you think?"

    "Oh, I think you''re such an cool person and also beautiful at the same time. I totally love your tattoo!"

    Ying Sheng froze at her words. She was ttered by herpliment because everyone looks at her with disgust when they see her tattoo and the way she dresses.

    "Thank you?" Ying Sheng said more in the form of a question. She didn''t know what else to say.

    "Don''t thank me Ying Sheng. What are friends for?" She said with a warm smile.

    ''Did she just say friends?'' Ying Sheng doesn''t remember thest time she had a female friend. Maybe she hung out with some bad girls at the club and smoke with them but she never considered those people as friends.

    Ying Sheng said nothing and focused on her food. Once they were done shopping, they went back to the mall to buy a few things which Dong Yishan said were for her mother.

    Ying Sheng decided to wait for her at the car park since she was definitely bored with all these shopping. When she was loading her things in the car she suddenly froze.

    She saw a man touching the back of a pregnant woman with a soft smile on his face. They wereing from a kid mall opposite the mall Dong Yishan was.

    Ying Sheng felt like her whole world was crushing. No, this can''t be. ''Dad?''

    How can it be her father? He was always on a busy trip so how can he get the time to apany a pregnant woman for shopping?

    Ying Sheng eyes followed them, she was still in denial until she saw her father''s assistanting out of the mall holding bags. Her face pale and she clutched her fist.

    "Ying Sheng are you okay?" Dong Yishan voice snapped Ying Sheng out of her thoughts.

    "Yes, let''s go"

    Through the car ride, Dong Yishan realized Ying Sheng was in a bad mood so she didn''t say anything. She speed the car and in a few minutes they arrived.

    When they came inside, Liam wasn''t around.

    So they carried the bags to Ying Sheng''s room.

    Dong Yishan pulled Ying Sheng into a tight hug before pulling away.

    "If you need someone to talk to, just call me. I had fun today!"

    Ying Sheng nodded absentmindedly. She walked her downstairs and saw Liam was on the couch.

    "Okay, my mom called and I need to go. Have fun you two."

    Dong Yishan said before walking out for the door.

    "I''m tired I''m going to sleep." Ying Sheng said.

    "Wait, did you have fun?" Ying Sheng forced out a smile and nodded.

    "Yes, thank you Liam. I really appreciate it."

    Liam''s phone vibrated and he saw it was a message from Dong Yishan.

    "I don''t know what happened, but Ying Sheng seemed to be in a bad mood. Talk to her."

    Liam narrowed his eyes.

    "Did something happened when you went for the shopping?" He questioned making Ying Sheng froze.

    She shook her head and avoided Liam''s gaze.

    "Don''t lie Ying Sheng. We promised not to lie to each other. If you don''t want to talk about it. I totally understand."

    Liam walked towards her and Ying Sheng felt a soft hands touched the side of her cheeks but it wasn''t in an agressive way

    Liam was caressing her cheeks. Ying Sheng avoided his gaze.

    "Ying Sheng¡­." Liam called her softly.

    This time Ying Sheng looked at him and saw his eyes softened.

    I will tell youter but now I want to be alone."

    Liam shed her smile and nodded.

    "Alright. Remember to call me if you think-"

    "I would. Thanks Liam."

    Ying Sheng said and walked back to her room.

 Chapter 159 Kill you

    <h4>Chapter 159 Kill you</h4>

    Su Cha: Ying Sheng''s mother

    Mu Cheng: Her lover

    Ying Huai: Ying Sheng''s father

    Su Cha sat in her car and took out her phone and sent someone a text message.

    "Are you home? I need to see you."

    Her phone vibrated indicating the person''s response.

    "Are you alright? Yes, I''m always here for you. I would be waiting for you."

    Su Cha''s lips curved into a soft smile and drove to the man''s house.

    Actually she and the mysterious man have been seeing each other for twelve years now. He was her first love but because hees from a poor family her family didn''t allow them to be together.

    Su Cha met Mu Cheng again two years after her marriage with Ying Huai. First they decided to be just friends , this before she found out her husband was cheating on her.

    Even though she didn''t want to get married to Ying Huai she decided to honor the marriage but why should she when her husband was sleeping around.

    Then one night when she wasing from work her car broke down and Mu Cheng offered her a lift. Since it was raining heavily that night he brought her to his apartment which was closer.

    It was actually in his apartment where they first had sex. She can still remember that night, how his touches made her feel alive than she has ever been in years.

    "This...is just casual." She had told him that night. Su Cha wanted him to know that even though they were once lovers they can''t be anything more than an affair.

    Mu Cheng justughed , "Anything you want."

    Mu Cheng made Su Cha happy. He treated her like a queen, something Ying Huai never did. Also, she hated Ying Huai, after all he took everything away from her.

    Su Cha arrived at Mu Cheng''s apartment and made sure no one was around. They had bought this apartment which was away from the public''s eyes and also had great security.

    Su Cha alwayses here at night because if anyone sees her, the controversy would be something she can''t even imagine.

    Face was everything families value so Su Cha knew the dangers involved if she got caught.

    Su Cha covered her face and rang the doorbell. Mu Cheng opened it quickly as if he was waiting for her at the door.

    He closed the door and scrutinized Su Cha with a worried frown on his face.

    "What''s wrong? Are you okay?"

    Su Cha nodded and hugged him, wrapping her hands around his waist.

    "Ying Huai knows, Mu Cheng."

    Mu Cheng furrowed his brows, "He does?"

    Su Cha pulled away and nodded.

    "Yes. I don''t know how or when he found out about us."

    "Oh you''re talking about him finding out about our affair. I thought he knew-"

    Su Cha shook her head. "No, he doesn''t know that one yet. If he does I''m sure he would make a fuss already."

    Mu Cheng held her hand and led her to the sofa.

    "What did he say?"

    "Nothing. I also know about his affair so there is nothing he can do. I suggested we get a divorce."

    Mu Cheng frowned when he heard her.

    "I''m sorry, Susu. Thest thing I want is to cause problems for you. Your father-"

    Su Cha smiled at him. "It''s okay. I know what I''m doing. I don''t care as long as I''m with you."

    She said as she reached out and nted a kiss on his lips.

    Mu Cheng deepened the kiss as his hand slid under her skirt.

    "I-I have to go home early tonight." Su Cha moaned when he sucked on her neck.

    "I would make it quick then." He chuckled.

    Su Cha nodded as she gave herself to him right there on the sofa.

    She loved this man so much because he made her forget the bad marriage she is in. The daughter she never wanted. When she was with Mu Cheng she felt like a teenager again.

    *****

    After the wild sex, theyid in each other''s arms. Mu Cheng yed with Su Cha''s hair while she traced her fingers on his chest.

    "I have to go." Su Cha whispered.

    "Okay, be careful. Text me when you get home."

    Su Cha smiled and nodded. nting a kiss on her shoulder he let her go.

    Su Cha suddenly missed his touch. She put on her clothes and headed towards the door.

    "Su Cha?" Mu Cheng called behind her.

    Su Cha turned to look at the man she has loved all her life. He wasn''t the richest person or most handsome person in the world but he was hers.

    He was looking at her with such an unreadable look in his eyes.

    "When are you going to tell Ying Huai the truth?"

    The smile on Su Cha''s face faded. "I-"

    "It''s been years already, how do you think I feel seeing another man raise my child?" He said raking his fingers through his hair.

    "I know but I need time. You know once he knows the truth he would kill you! My father-"

    Mu Cheng chuckled and shook his head.

    "It''s been years now, are you afraid you would lose the Ying empire when he finds out the truth?"

    Su Cha shook her head. "No, I''m afraid he would kill you when he finds out the truth. What do you think he would do when he finds out he has been raising another man''s child all these years!"

    Su Cha was clearly irritated.

    Mu Cheng sighed, "Sorry."

    Su Cha walked back to him and kissed him.

    "I know it''s hard but just gave me a little time."

    "Alright, I love you." Mu Cheng whispered against her lips.

    Su Cha smiled softly, "I love you too."

    She pulled away and hurried to her car and drove home.

    She really hopes her husband was still on a business trip and hasn''te back. She doesn''t want to deal with his questions right now.

    She just wants to shower and sleep. Tomorrow she will visit her daughter.

 Chapter 160 Sleep

    <h4>Chapter 160 Sleep</h4>

    When Su Cha got home, she found Ying Huai sitting on the couch holding a ss of whiskey.

    "I was waiting for you." He said looking at her.

    "Oh you were?" Su Cha said tly as she removed her shoe. She walked towards him on the couch and saw he was still wearing his suit.

    "Yes, I was." He replied taking a sip of his whiskey.

    Su Cha ced her purse down and sigh.

    "Hurry up and tell me what you want because I''m exhausted, honestly."

    Ying Huai eyes scanned her body and he raised his brows.

    "You went to him?"

    Su Cha rolled her eyes, "Yes I did. Do you have any problem with that?"

    "No, I don''t. Just don''t get got. I don''t want to be ridiculed with green hat title. Also, you know thepany would suffer if news leak about any of this. I can tolerate this but do you think your father or the Ying family would let you go?"

    Su Cha harrumphed, "Take that advice yourself Mr. Ying. I had to bribe a reporter who was about to release an interesting picture to the media. Guess who was in the picture?!"

    Su Cha''s family dealt with many media houses in the country so she got wind of the pictures before it could be release to the public.

    Ying Huai look hardened, "What are you talking about?"

    "If you want to spend some quality family time with your mistress make sure no one sees you."

    Ying Huai froze and heaved a sigh. "Mywyer has finalized the divorce. I was thinking we should invite Ying Sheng to dinner and inform her. "

    Su Cha shrugged, "I was nning on meeting her tomorrow. She is living with a boy? Seriously what''s wrong with that girl? Does she know what people would think about an unmarried girl staying with a boy?"

    Su Cha rubbed her temples and sighed. "What about Ying Bun when are we going to tell him?"

    Ying Huai frowned, he had forgotten about his son.

    "He is still young and is in school. We would tell him when hees home for Christmas break."

    "Okay, is that all?"

    Ying Huai nodded.

    Su Cha stood up and went to the bedroom to take a long shower.

    When she came her husband was already asleep.

    Su Cha heaved a sigh. She wonders what would happen if Ying Huai finds out the truth.

    *************

    "Hey,are you okay? I wasing to get you. You have been sleeping the whole day." Liam said as he shed Ying Sheng a smile.

    Ying Sheng rubbed the back of her neck and nodded.

    "Yeah, sorry. I fell asleep."

    Liam nodded, "I ordered Pizza since I can''t cook. Hope it''s okay?"

    Ying Sheng forced a smile and nodded. "Yeah it okay."

    After they finished eating, Liam looked at Ying Sheng who had been unusually quiet and sighed.

    "Go take a bath and we would watch a movie together."

    Ying Sheng nodded and without saying anything went to take a bath.

    When she came back from taking a shower, she saw Liam had prepared popcorn and ice cream.

    Liam looked up and swallowed when he saw Ying Sheng. She was wearing shorts and crop top. Her hair was pulled into a messy bun adding a unique charm to her.

    Ying Sheng sat on the couch and smiled at Liam.

    "What are we watching?"

    Liam shook his head. "You pick the movie. "

    Ying Sheng nodded and selected some action movie.

    Liam raised his brows, "I thought you would go for the romantic movie. Don''t you girls like romance?"

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes at him. "I''m not an ordinary girl, Cutiee."

    Liam chuckled at her words. "Aah I see."

    Fifteenth minutes into the film, Liam heard Ying Sheng shout.

    "Son of bitch! Hit him harder!"

    "Ahh man, a girl can hit better than this!"

    "How old are you? Four? Stop being a pusssy."

    A trace of amusement shed through Liam''s eyes.

    "Ying Sheng,nguage."

    Liam blushed as he said.

    Ying Sheng grinned at Liam, "Oh, I forgot there is a kid sitting here. Sorry kiddo."

    Liam shook his head. Suddenly he asked Ying Sheng what was wrong.

    "Hey, so...you want to tell me what had you riled up in the afternoon?"

    Ying Sheng stiffened, "Ah..well I saw my father when I went for the shopping."

    Liam arched his brows, "Oh. Did he say anything to make you angry?"

    Ying Sheng chuckled humorlessly. "No, he didn''t see me. He was too caught up looking at his mistress to notice me."

    Liam frowned. "Mistress?"

    Ying Sheng nodded. "Oh, you should have seen them. They were like a happy family."

    Liam''s frown deepened.

    "Family?" A confused frown adorned Liam''s face.

    "Yes, she is pregnant."

    Liam widened his eyes.

    "Are you okay?"

    Ying Sheng chuckled.

    "Why wouldn''t I be okay?"

    Liam said nothing just looking at her with a known look.

    "Okay, I was disappointed but after thinking about it I realized I shouldn''t waste my time crying over my parents. Why should I waste my energy on people who don''t care about me. I would take care of myself from nowadays."

    Ying Sheng said with a smile. Liam nodded.

    "That''s good. If you need anything just tell me."

    "Thanks Cutiee. Now let''s watch the movie."

    Ying Sheng said and turn back to look at the television.

    Liam just stared at her and fell into a deep thought.

    "Oh fuck yeah, hit him harder!"

    Ying Sheng''s voice snapped Liam from whatever he was thinking about.

    They watched the movie while arguing about who was the best fighter.

    After the movie finished they decided to watch a reality show.

    Liam turned to look at Ying Sheng when he heard her snores. She had fallen asleep while watching the movie.

    Liam sighed and stood up from the couch.

    He strode towards her and carried her in bridal style.

    "Liam¡­?" Ying Sheng called him in her sleep.

    "Yeah, sleep. I would take you to your room."

 Chapter 161 Hermosa

    <h4>Chapter 161 Hermosa</h4>

    Author''s Note: Hermosa simply means Beautiful llololo. Sorry for the glitch yesterday. Enjoy xoxo

    "Wifey, you said one more documents and we could go home." Lei Zhao pouted like a kid as he said. He strode towards Yan Mei tugging her out of her chair.

    Because of theunching of her new collection, Yan Mei was extremely busy. All those days she had spend home with Lei Zhao had piled up heaps of work for her. Now she wanted to finish them.

    "No, Lei Zhao. I said you can go home not we." Yan Mei stated.

    "And leave without my heart? Lei Zhao asked.

    "Wifey, you''re really cruel. You want me to die."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes and heaved a sigh.

    "Lei Zhao I have so many things to do. I have to make sure everything is perfect for thisunching. I want to honor my parents with it. Being a jewelry designer was my mother''s dream. Now I''m living her dream for her."

    Lei Zhao furrowed his brows when he heard her. This is the first time his wife has told him why he chose to build a jewelrypany. All of this was for her mother?

    What was her dream then? Lei Zhao asked himself but didn''t ask her anything. He knew her parents were sour topic for her.

    "I''m sure, mom wouldn''t want you to be overworking. So we are going home." Lei Zhao stated.

    "Yeah, she wouldn''t but I have to finish this." Yan Mei said as she shed Lei Zhao a smile.

    "Go home, Lei Zhao. I would finish this ande backter."

    Lei Zhao frowned when he heard her.

    "Do you think I would really leave you alone to work all by yourself?" Lei Zhao shook his head .

    Yan Mei groaned, "You can''t stay here, Lei Zhao. Look at the exhaustion flickering in your eyes. Go and rest."

    "Oh, are you worried about me?" Lei Zhao asked in amusement.

    "Yes, I don''t want you to get sick."

    Lei Zhao chuckled when he heard her words.

    "Shouldn''t that be my line?"

    "Maybe." Yan Mei chuckled.

    "Hermosa, let''s go. You can finish this tomorrow."

    "Lei Zhao¡­.." Yan Mei groaned.

    Lei Zhao raised his hands in surrender as he took a step back.

    "Alright, I will wait for you to finish." Lei Zhao grinned as he went to sit in the couch.

    Yan Mei heaved a sigh. "Alright."

    Lei Zhao beamed in victory and went back to the couch in Yan Mei''s office.

    He hade to pick her from work but she was so busy that she didn''t want to go.

    *****

    Yan Mei admired Lei Zhao''s face as he sleeps. His lips were slightly parted and his whole facial features were softened.

    A soft smile formed on Yan Mei''s face.

    "Lei Zhao¡­.wake up." Yan Mei said as she shook him .

    "Lei Zhao¡­"

    Lei Zhao groaned as he stirred in his sleep. Slowly he opened his eyes and saw Yan Mei standing in front of him.

    "Sorry...I felll asleep. Are you done?"

    Lei Zhao asked as he rubbed his eyes.

    "Hmm, you''re tired. Let''s go home."

    Lei Zhao smiled embarrassingly and nodded.

    "Hmm, let''s go."

    ******

    "Are you hungry?" Lei Zhao asked Yan Mei as their car left the parking lot.

    "Yeah, I am but it''ste and we didn''t make reservations. Also, you look tired. Let''s go home."

    "I''m not that tired that I can''t have dinner with my wife. Also, what''s the point of being rich if I can''t makest minute reservations to the restaurant of my choice."

    Yan Mei chuckled, "Alright Boss Lei"

    Few minutester, Lei Zhao pulled the car into a fancy restaurant where the manger came to greet them.

    "Mr. Lei, Madam. Please this way."

    The manager led them to the rooftop that was only reserved for them.

    Once seated a waiter came to take their orders.

    Few minutester, the waiter came down with their meals, serving braised pork chops, lobster tails, roasted chicken, steam vegetables, and fried rice.

    Yan Mei beamed at the food. Nothing makes a day brighter than delicious meals.

    Yan Mei began to devour her food without reserve.

    Lei Zhao watched her with slight amusement at how she chewed impolitely without caring how she looked.

    "Rx, no one is going to steal your food." Lei Zhao said with a helpless sigh.

    Yan Mei had a piece of rice on her cheek, so he took a napkin, wiping her face gently for her.

    Yan Mei shed him a smile, "Food makes me forget my manners, my bad."

    Lei Zhao snickered and lowered his hand, returning to his own dishes. He then ced a piece of roasted pork in his mouth.

    "Aren''t you afraid of getting fat?" he questioned with sarcasmced in his voice.

    Yan Mei cut through another piece of meat, before looking at him.

    "Why, you would not want me if I''m fat?" Yan Mei pouted making her look cute.

    "Of course not. It''s good if you get fat. I would get more flesh to spank on."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes and shook her head.

    "Pervert."

    "Only for you, Hermosa. Only for you." Lei Zhao said, throwing a subtle wink at her.

    After the dinner they went home. Lei Zhao opened the car door for Yan Mei, as soon as she got down. Lei Zhao''s arms scooped her from the ground and into his arms.

    "Lei Zhao!" Yan Mei gasped causing Lei Zhao to chortle as he walked up the stairs towards the door.

    "We are home...Wifey." Lei Zhao said as he settled Yan Mei on the bed in their bedroom.

    He crouched down in front of her and removed her shoes. He massaged her foot and Yan Mei moaned in satisfaction.

    Yan Mei smiled at him when he looked up at her.

    "What would I do without you?" Lei Zhao grinned when he heard her.

    "Nothing?" Lei Zhao smirked at her. He stood up and crushed his lips with hers.

 Chapter 162 Set up

    <h4>Chapter 162 Set up</h4>

    Author''s Note: So I have reced yesterday''s glitch chapter if you can''t see it. Go to settings clear cache. Or remove book from library and add it again. Sorry for the inconveniences.

    Also, please DON''T OPEN THE NEXT CHAPTER. My soul is willing to write but the body is weak lol. I will rece it in 4-5 hours. Due to glitch I had to write extra chapter sigh.

    Yan Mei''s legs were cross over as she watched the busy streets through the Cafe''s window. She was currently waiting for Leng Shao since they scheduled to meet here.

    Feeling a gaze on her, Yan Mei turned and saw Leng Shao striding towards her. He was wearing a pair of ck jeans and white shirt. A gold wrist watch was wrapped around his wrist. If Yan Mei hadn''t met Lei Zhao she would have found Leng Shao handsome. The guy was the definition of handsomeness. His cute dimple made him more charming.

    "Hey," He said with his soothing voice before shing Yan Mei a smile.

    "Hy, you look nice Leng Shao. Who is the lucky girl you have met?" Yan Mei teased him.

    Leng Shao snorted at her question but Yan Mei saw the ghost of smile at the corner of his lips as they tugged upwards.

    Leng Shao looked at Yan Mei. She was wearing a red floral dress and her hair was tied into a ponytail making her look less intimidating than the first time he met her in City S.

    She looked like the stunning innocent girl he met five years ago.

    "You don''t look bad yourself," Heplimented Yan Mei smiling softly at her.

    "Let''s go for ice cream instead of coffee. You still like ice cream right?"

    Yan Mei chuckled nodding, "Alright."

    Yan Mei stood up and followed him out of the cafe.

    "So how have you been doing?" Leng Shao asked softly.

    Yan Mei snapped her head towards him, "Good just busy. You?"

    "I''m good."

    They arrived at an ice cream stand which brought memories to Yan Mei.

    "So is chocte still your favorite ice cream?" Leng Shao asked as they waited in line. There were currently five people before them so Leng Shao decided to pick a conversation.

    "Do you even have to ask? Chocte is life!"

    Leng Shao wrinkled his nose. "I can see you still hate chocte." Yan Mei let out augh.

    "Yeah, I don''t understand why you all like chocte. It''s just-"

    "Delicious?" Yan Meipleted his sentence for him.

    Leng Shao scrunched his face in disgust.

    "No, it''s not."

    Leng Shao shook his head and sighed. It reached their turn and they ordered. Yan Mei ordered her chocte ice cream while Leng Shao ordered vani.

    Yan Mei dipped her spoon into the ice cream and brought it to her lips moaning in satisfaction.

    "This right here...is Heaven on Earth." Yan Mei said dramatic.

    Leng Shao rolled his eyes and shoved at her shoulders causing Yan Mei to chuckle.

    "Let''s find a ce to talk." Leng Shao said and Yan Mei nodded. They strolled leisurely down the streets earning curious gaze from people.

    It''s not everyday that they see two beautiful people walk side by side. Leng Shao peered up at Yan Mei as afortable silence fell between them.

    He enjoyed this moment with her. She was so beautiful and waking up everyday knowing she wasn''t his, hurts.

    They walked towards a beautiful park and sat at the swings looking at couples having pics and kids ying.

    "I know you like parks so I brought you here." Yan Mei shed him a soft smile.

    "Thank you, Leng Shao." He shrugged his shoulders and dug his spoon into his cup before bringing it to his lips.

    "So are you still painting? I thought you were going to be a famous painter but you build a jewelry empire instead. I don''t know if I should be impress or scold you for not following your dreams."

    Yan Mei looked at him and saw a question look lingering on his face.

    "No, I haven''t held a brush in five years." Yan Mei mumbled avoiding his gaze.

    "Why?" Leng Shao asked.

    Yan Mei arms snaked around the swing set as she began to rock herself back and forth.

    "Because...being a painter is more than just painting. You need inspiration and a lot of things. Also, I''m afraid painting would bring back bad memories. Memories I have buried deep inside."

    Leng Shao stilled for a moment then blinked.

    "But you had a dream Yan Mei. You were going to build the biggest art gallery filled with your paintings in the country. Are you telling me that you have given up on that dream?"

    Dead silence fell between them for a few minutes before Yan Mei let out a shaky breath still avoiding his gaze.

    "I''m living my mother''s dream, Leng Shao that''s all that matters."

    Yan Mei said as she turned to look at him. His lips were pursed into a thin line.

    "Your mother wouldn''t want you to be living her dream-"

    "You knew nothing about my mother!" Yan Mei snapped at Leng Shao.

    "Yeah, I don''t. Sorry." Leng Shao mumbled and his eyes dropped lowlyy as he averted his gaze and focused on his ice cream.

    Yan Mei frowned at her reaction and sighed.

    "Sorry, Leng Shao. I didn''t mean to. I guess I''m just tired."

    Leng Shao looked up at her and patted her head gently.

    "It''s okay. Don''t worry about it. I totally understand you."

    "So have you forgive me?" Yan Mei asked softly.

    Leng Shao chuckled, "Nothing to forgive. Don''t worry."

    Yan Mei shot him a grateful smile. Leng Shao was like a brother to her. He spoiled her and always have in to her demands. A glint of mischievousness passed through Yan Mei''s eyes.

    "So..."

    Leng Shao raised his brows. He had a feeling he was not going to like what she was about to say.

    "What?"

    "My best friend and secretary. What do you think about her?"

    Leng Shao groaned, "Don''t start, Yan Mei."

    Yan Mei blinked and pouted.

    "You''re not getting young, Leng Shao. When would you settle down? I want to be a godmother."

    Leng Shao rubbed his temples. "So you want to set me up with your best friend?"

    Yan Mei nodded.

    "What do you think?" Looking at the expectation in her eyes, he couldn''t refuse her.

    "Alright, I would go on one date with her. If it doesn''t work-"

    "Yes, yes. I won''t force you!"

 Chapter 163 She is the one

    <h4>Chapter 163 She is the one</h4>

    Liam blew out air as he leaned back into his chair. He rubbed his temples and grabbed his pen to continue working on the piles of paper stacked on his desk.

    He lost track of time as he focused on his work. After three and half hours of working non stop, his office door opened. Without looking at the person he already knew who it was. No one would enter his office without knocking unless his brother, Lucas.

    "Yo bro!" Lucas said as he strode towards Liam. He sat on the swivel chair in front of Liam.

    Without looking at him, "What do you want?" Liam asked.

    "Ouch, bro. You''re bing more cold towards me." Lucas said faking hurt in his voice.

    "Do I only visit you when I need something?"

    Liam looked up at his brother who was the exact copy of him and sighed. They had the same face but different personalities.

    "Yes, you do. No hurry up and tell me what you want. I''m busy."

    Lucas snorted, "I came to invite you to lunch."

    Liam shook his head and gestured at the stacks of paperworks on his desk.

    Lucas frowned, "Dude, you''re just twenty-three. Stop overworking and live a little. It''s not like we are from a poor family."

    Liam sighed. He knew his brother wouldn''t let him work so he stood up and followed Lucas.

    When they walked out of the office building, Lucas

    Lamborghini was already parked at the front.

    Liam rolled his eyes as his brother whistled.

    "You should be happy I''m letting you sit in my baby, bro."

    Liam shook his head and they both climbed in heading off to a restaurant.

    When they got to the restaurant, the manager rushed to greet them and the staff were extremely polite to them. After all the Xia twins were very powerful in City S, even though they were extremely low-key.

    Even though Lucas''s face was nted on every business magazine as a yboy and the CEO of one of the most popr gamingpanies in the country, only a few people knew his background.

    A few people actually knew about the Xia family, not to say the members of the family.The manager knew them because the owner of the restaurant was Lucas''s friend so he instructed the staff to always treat them with respect anytime they visit.

    The manager led them to a VIP room exclusively for them. Once they sat down, a waitress came to take their orders.

    The waitress was wearing a tight uniform that showed off her cleavage in the low buttoned up uniform.

    She batted her fake eyshes trying to get their attention. Even Lucas who was a womanizer didn''t spare her a nce.

    They ced their orders without sparing her a nce. After she had written their orders, the waitress left them while swaying her hips but unfortunately the people she was trying so hard to impress didn''t even bother to look at her.

    "Okay spill it. Are you in some kind of trouble?" Liam asked suspiciously.

    Lucas pouted, "Bro, you really think the worst of me. That hurts!"

    Liam narrowed his eyes at his brother. "Seriously, what is going on? You seem nervous and happy at the same time? What''s going on?"

    Lucas'' ears turned red as he cleared his throat.

    "I-I think I''m in love, bro!"

    "So¡­?" Liam asked, gazing at his brother as if he had suddenly grown three horns.

    "Aah...that''s it." Lucas said embarrassingly.

    "Then why are you behaving like a psycho? It''s not the first time you have said this. You said the same thing to me three days ago. What was the girl''s name Liu Yen? Yen Liu? Liu Liu?"

    Liam''s lips curved into a sardonic smile as he stared at his brother. Honestly he felt tired for his brother. All these girls doesn''t he get tired trying to remember all their names?

    "No..bro, it just, I don''t know. This girl is really special and different. I have a feeling¡­.she is the one."

    Liam crossed his arms across his chest as he gave his brother a nk look.

    "Didn''t you say the same thing about thest girl you went out with? "

    Seeing that his brother doesn''t believe him, Lucas dropped the subject. He would show his brother that this girl was really the one.

    "So...how are things going with our infamous bad girl?"

    Liam furrowed his brows. "She has a name, you know?"

    The waitress brought their food and drinks. While she ced it on the table she bent extremely low to show more of her cleavage. Her face fell when she realized both of them were busy talking to each other.

    A crushed look appeared on the waitress'' face. She knew Liam and Lucas were rich people when she saw how their arrogant manager treated them with respect so she decided to shoot her shots.

    She was hoping they would notice her and ask for her name at least. After all, who didn''t want a shortcut in life. But unfortunately they didn''t even spare her a nce.

    She pouted and went to take the orders of another table.

    "Oh bro! You''re already getting protective?"

    Lucas chuckled as he teased his brother.

    "That means things are going well I see."

    Liam broke into a smile and nodded.

    "Yeah, we are even living together now."

    Lucas choked on his drink as he widened his eyes.

    "Wait what?"

    Liam shrugged.

    "Wow bro! You''re even faster than I am. All my life I haven''t moved in with a girl but you-"

    Lucas grinned, "I have to say I''m proud of you bro! It seems you are more talented in wooing a girl than me."

    "It''s not like that. We are just friends."

    Lucas wiggled his brows, "Yeah, yeah and I''m still a virgin. I believe you bro. Don''t worry."

    Liam dropped the topic and they ate their food while talking about business. Lucas decided to gossip with his mother tonight. After all, their mother was their best friend and she deserved to know how talented her son is!

 Chapter 164 Seen a ghost

    <h4>Chapter 164 Seen a ghost</h4>

    Leng Shao stood by the wall of the floor to ceiling windows in his office, his hands were in his pocket as he gaze through the windows with a nk look on his face.

    He hadid restless on his bed throughout the night as memories of him and Yan Mei constantly reyed in his mind. Her smiles, herughs, the way she would pout when she wants something. Leng Shao felt a smile tugging at his lips.

    It feels like only yesterday that he had met her. The innocent girl whose smiles always brightened his day. He didn''t even realize when he started liking her by the time he had realized his feelings for her it was already toote.

    She was someone''s else''s and that person was his best friend. Watching the woman you love in your best friend''s arms everyday was torture.

    Deep down he knew he had to let go but it''s easier said than done. He tried to let go and move on but he just couldn''t. So he did the best thing he could, love her from afar.

    But now, he thinks it''s time to move on and going on this date with Su Bei is the first step of letting go of the past.

    The sound of someone knocking on his voice snapped him out of his thoughts.

    "Sir the documents you requested for." His personal assistant said as he ced the some folders on his table.

    Leng Shao turned around and nodded, "Thank you. How is the investigation going?"

    Leng Shao asked his personal assistant. "Not very good but I''m sure we would get answers soon. "

    Leng Shao frowned but nodded. Finding the culprit responsible for Yan Mei''s plight five years ago is the least thing he can do for her. He hopes he can find the person soon.

    "That¡­" His secretary trailed off. He didn''t know if he should inform his boss.

    "What?" Leng Shao asked when he saw the hesitant look on his assistant''s face.

    "Mr. Wang would be getting married next month. "

    Dead silence fell in the room and the assistant fidgeted nervously. He didn''t know whether he made the right decision to tell Leng Shao this.

    "Hmm. It''s that all?" The assistant nodded.

    "Then I would leave now." Leng Shao turned to look at the view from his floor to ceiling window.

    "Getting married?" He mumbled and heaved a sigh.

    They promised each other that were going to be each other''s best man when one of them were getting married but now-

    Leng Shao rubbed his temples and blew out air. Who would have thought they would turn out this way.

    ***************

    After ordering what they wanted, Yan Mei and Su Bei sat at a table. Su Bei sat on the chair in front of Yan Mei while smiling.

    They had an hour of lunch break before Yan Mei had to go back to work so they had time to talk and eat.

    "So, how is your husband?" Su Bei asked Yan Mei while raising her brows.

    Yan Mei smiled, "He is good."

    Su Bei nodded and nced at Yan Mei''s stomach.

    "So should I expect to be a godmother soon?" Su Bei asked smirking at Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes and shook her head.

    "No." Yan Mei said tly even though her heart was hurting. She has been taking the bitter Chinese medicine everyday but there was no sign of her being pregnant. Every month her mood dampens when her periodes.

    "No? I guess I have to tell Mr.Lei to work hard. I can''t wait for you to give birth. I''m sure your kids would be very beautiful and cute!" Su Bei squealed causing Yan Mei to chuckle.

    "I met Leng Shao yesterday." Yan Mei said while gazing at her friend.

    Su Bei looked up, her eyes flickering with curiosity.

    "Oh you did?" Su Bei tried to act nonchntly but the eagerness in her tone betrayed her.

    Yan Mei grinned and nodded. "Yeah I did and I got you a date!"

    Su Bei widened her eyes in surprised and blinked trying toprehend what she has just heard.

    "Date? With whom?"

    Yan Mei ignored Su Bei and focused on her food.

    "Oh c''mon Yan Mei. Don''t leave me hanging, tell me. With who?"

    Su Bei pouted. Even though she knew the person Yan Mei was talking about. She wanted Yan Mei to confirm so her beating heart cane down.

    "Leng Shao." Yan Mei finally said.

    "Really? Did he agree?" Su Bei asked excitedly, her eyes flickering with excitement.

    "Yes and yes. You really like him?" Yan Mei asked teasly.

    Su Bei blushed and nodded. "He is so handsome and such a nice gentleman why wouldn''t like him!"

    Yan Mei chortled and shook her head at her friend.

    "But what if he doesn''t like me or I disgrace myself? What should I wear? When is the date? Should I use my savings to buy a nice dress?"

    Su Bei mumbled to herself but Yan Mei heard her.

    "Silly, you''re so pretty of course Leng Shao would like you. We can go for shopping if you like. "

    Su Bei smiled and nodded. "Alright, let''s go this Saturday."

    Yan Mei shook her head, "You''re behaving like a teenager right now."

    "I''m not!" Su Bei quickly retorted.

    Yan Mei couldn''t help but burst into a fit ofughter, tears filling her eyes for some unknown reason as she took a moment to take in Su Bei''s excitement.

    She was beaming, it''s like she was a whole different person.

    "I hope this works for you."

    "Me too." Su Bei mumbled softly, a ghost of smile on her lips.

    They talked about random things and finished their food. After they finished paying the bill they walked out of the cafe. Unfortunately the moment Yan Mei walked out of the cafe she bumped into someone.

    "Sorry¡­" Her words were cut off when she saw the person.

    Yan Mei''s face paled and she took a step back.

    No, it can''t be. He is dead. How¡­

    "You look like you have seen a ghost darling¡­."

    Author''s Note: Curious about our MYSTERIOUS GUY? purchase privilege at 1 coin to find out hehe

 Chapter 165 Are you okay?

    <h4>Chapter 165 Are you okay?</h4>

    "You look like you have seen a ghost darling¡­."

    The man said with amusementced in his voice. He watched how Yan Mei''s face paled at the sight of him and he chuckled inwardly.

    Oh Feng Mei, it''s good I still have an effect on you.

    "Are you okay Miss?" He asked this time with fake concernced in his tone.

    "Y-yes I am. Sorry and excuse me." Yan Mei said and started walking away without sparing him a nce.

    How can it be him? No no Yan Mei maybe they just look alike. That''s the only exnation Yan Mei could bring up after all he saw Wang Lu kill the man.

    That man, her biggest nightmare. A shiver ran along Yan Mei''s spine thinking about the past.

    Yan Mei didn''t want to think about those dark moments. He was dead and he wouldn''t get the chance to hurt her again.

    No, she is stronger now. No one can hurt again. With that thought Yan Mei finally rxed.

    "Hey, Yan Mei are you okay? You just zoned out on me. I have been calling you but you didn''t hear me."

    Su Bei asked worriedly.

    Yan Mei turned to her friend and nodded.

    "Yes, I''m fine. Sorry. Let''s go."

    Su Bei raised her brows but just nodded.

    The man watched Yan Mei leaving and his lips raised into a bloodthirsty arc.

    "Feng Mei, Feng Mei we finally meet again." The man chuckled humorlessly earning weird gazes from people on the streets.

    ***********************

    Yan Mei leaned against her chair and heaved a sigh. She couldn''t get the man she met this afternoon out of her mind. She rummaged her hands through her hair as she tugged at it roughly.

    She sighed and pushed herself off the chair. Slowly memories she has buried and haven''t told anyone began to assault her mind.

    Tremors crept inside her and she swallowed the bile in her throat and flickered her eyes shut.

    She found herself shaking as she sucked in a harsh breath trying to calm down but it was just useless.

    Yan Mei grabbed her phone and dialed Lei Zhao''s number. She pressed the phone to her ear and listened to the line ring untill he picked up the call.

    "Wifey¡­."

    Hearing his velvet voice calmed her tremors.

    "L-Lei Zhao¡­." Yan Mei stammered causing Lei Zhao to frown at the other end of the phone. Judging from her tone, he knew something was wrong.

    "Wifey...are you okay? What''s wrong?" Lei Zhao asked worriedly.

    Yan Mei blew out air, she tried to talk but nothing came out.

    "Yan Mei...say something!" Lei Zhao panicked voice finally snapped Yan Mei out of her trance.

    "Yes... I''m fine. Have you had lunch?"

    Lei Zhao raised his brows at the other end of the phone. He clearly didn''t believe his wife but he was sure she didn''t want to talk about whatever was bothering her.

    "No, I''m currently in the middle of a meeting." Lei Zhao said softly. He had paused the meeting just to talk to her. Only God knows how scared he was when he heard her stammering voice.

    "Oh, did I disturb you?" Yan Mei asked.

    "No, you''re more important. Don''t worry. Are you sure you are okay? Do you want me toe there?" Lei Zhao asked gently.

    "No-no. I''m really fine. I just missed you. But hearing your voice I''m now much better!"

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh, "I missed you too. Don''t overwork. I will see youter. I love you."

    "I love you too." Yan Mei said and hung up the phone.

    Now that she has spoken to Lei Zhao she felt much more calmer. She wasn''t alone now and no one can hurt her now.

    With that thought, Yan Mei ced her little episode at the back of her mind and buried herself into her work.

    *******************************

    Lei Zhao looked at Ye Xing and furrowed his brows.

    "Tell me where did the madam go today?" He asked Ye Xing. Since his ident he had assign a personal bodyguard to keep an eye on Yan Mei. He didn''t want to risk her safety since they haven''t found the person responsible for his ident.

    Ye Xing gave the cafe Yan Mei went surveince to Lei Zhao. Lei Zhao watched his wife eating with his best friend and then when they walked out she had bumped into someone.

    The other person''s face couldn''t be seen but Lei Zhao saw Yan Mei''s face paled at the sight of the person. She looked scared?

    Who can generate such a scared reaction from his wife? Lei Zhao tapped his fingers on the table and fell into a deep thought.

    "Find out who the person who is in the video is." Lei Zhao ordered.

    "Yes, Boss."

    Lei Zhao rubbed his temples and took a deep breath.

    "Any news on the investigation?"

    "Yes, Sir. We have finally found the people involved in the incident. We just need to find out how hired them."

    Lei Zhao nodded, "Hurry. There are so many enemies lurking around. The sooner we solved this the better."

    Ye Xing nodded. "Yes, Boss."

    Ye Xing left Lei Zhao alone in the office. The moment Ye Xing left Lei Zhao''s phone rang.

    He looked at the caller ID and a soft smile tugged at the corner of his lips.

    "Pumpkin, how are you?" Lei Zhao asked Ying Sheng the moment he answered the call.

    "I''m good cousin, You?" Ying Sheng excited voice sounded. Lei Zhao raised his brows. It''s been a long time since he has heard such excitement in Ying Sheng''s voice.

    "I''m good. So...are you in some kind of trouble that''s why you''re calling me?" Lei Zhao chuckled as he asked.

    Ying Sheng pouted at the other side of the phone.

    "No, cousin. I want to ask if we would be going for the horse riding this Saturday. You promised me."

    Lei Zhao had forgotten about this. "Yes, we would go, don''t worry."

    "Alright, see you there then. Bye bye."

    Lei Zhao shook his head helplessly with a soft smile tugging at the corners of lips.

 Chapter 166 Run little kitty,Run

    <h4>Chapter 166 Run little kitty,Run</h4>

    Lei Zhao looked at time for the nth time and sighed. He wanted to see Yan Mei, hold her in his arms to confirm that she was really okay. His heart had been thumping against his chest since she called this afternoon.

    Lei Zhao knew something was wrong but his stubborn wife wouldn''t tell him what was bothering her.

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh, he wanted nothing more than to caress her cheeks and nt a soft kiss on her forehead to assure her that she wasn''t alone now. She had him.

    Suddenly the clock stroked five pm and Lei Zhao knew he finally had an excuse to see her since five pm is her normal closing hours at work.

    Lei Zhao abruptly stood up from his chair and stared towards the door with Ye Xing trailing behind him.

    "Where to Boss?" Ye Xing asked as he opened the car door for Lei Zhao.

    "To see my wife." Lei Zhao said as he got in the car.

    Twenty minutester, Ye Xing stopped at Yan Mei''spany and Lei Zhao got down without waiting for Ye Xing to open the door for him.

    Taking Yan Mei''s private elevator, he reached the floor of Yan Mei''s office.

    He saw Su Bei talking on the phone and he strode towards her.

    Seeing Lei Zhao, Su Bei nodded at him and shed him a smile. After jotting down whatever the person had said on the other side of the phone. She hung up.

    "Hy, how are you?" Lei Zhao asked politely since she was his wife''s friend.

    "I''m good, Mr. Lei. Are you here to see your wife?"

    Su Bei grinned.

    Lei Zhao nodded, "Is she in?"

    A mischievous glint passed through Su Bei''s eyes and she nodded.

    "Yes, she is. But do you have an appointment?"

    Su Bei asked Lei Zhao with a straight face.

    Lei Zhao frowned, "Do I need an appointment to see my wife? Since when?"

    Su Bei nodded, "Since you haven''t been working hard enough."

    Lei Zhao''s frown deepened. He had no idea what Su Bei was talking about.

    "Working hard?" He questioned arching his brows.

    "Yes, Mr. Lei. You have to work hard. Why isn''t my friend pregnant yet?"

    Lei Zhao rubbed his temples and sighed.

    "I will work harder. Miss Su if you let me see my wife right now. Who knows we might make little Mei if you let me in right now."

    Su Bei blushed at Lei Zhao''s words and nodded.

    "I won''t inform her. I think you should surprise her."

    Lei Zhao smiled and nodded. "Thank you. Don''t worry by the end of the year you have mini us roaming in this office."

    Lei Zhao said as he strode towards Yan Mei''s office.

    Su Bei felt happy for her friend to have found such a great guy. Hopefully she would find someone who would treat her like Lei Zhao treats Yan Mei.

    Lei Zhao entered Yan Mei''s office without knocking and saw that her face was pale and she was hyperventting in her chair.

    "Yan Mei!" Lei Zhao shouted, his voiceced with fear.

    Lei Zhao rushed to her side, pulled her out of the chair crushing her into his chest. One of his arms wrapped strongly around her waist, while the other pushed her head against his chest.

    "Hey...breath in, out. It''s okay. I''m here now." Yan Mei''s body rxed in Lei Zhao''s arms and she blinked to stop the tears from welling in her eyes.

    She had put her head on her desk to take a nap since she was having a headache but seeing that man had rekindled her darkest memories.

    Memories she hasn''t told anyone not even Wang Lu who found her, because she was too ashamed and was afraid they would look at her in disgust.

    That psycho had broken her in more ways than possible and seeing him again just made Yan Mei feel vulnerable again. She has forgotten she wasn''t a naive Feng Mei anymore but Yan Mei, a powerful person.

    After seeing that she has rxed, Lei Zhao pulled away from her.

    "Are you okay? What happened?" Yan Mei looked up at Lei Zhao and saw his eyes filled with concern looking at her.

    "Y-yeah, I''m fine." Yan Mei managed to say.

    "I took a nap but I had a nightmare."

    Lei Zhao furrowed his brows. "But it''s been such a long time since you had them." Lei Zhao said, cradling her in his arms.

    "Yeah." Yan Mei mumbled.

    "Do you want to talk about it?" Lei Zhao asked softly.

    Yan Mei stiffened as she remembered something.

    **"Run, little kitty. Run because when I find you. I would break you slowly and oh how I would enjoy seeing fear indulge your whole body. How the mere mention of my name would give you nightmares and by the time I''m done with you, no one would want you, not even your lover boy."**

    "Yan Mei!" Lei Zhao''s panicked voice snapped Yan Mei out of her stupor.

    "What is it, Wifey?" Lei Zhao asked gently, noticing the paleness of her face.

    "Can we not talk about it now? I want to go home."

    Yan Mei mumbled, pushing herself into his chest. Her body trembled as sobs racked through her.

    Lei Zhao stiffened. It''s been such a long time since his wife cried.

    "Yan Mei¡­." Lei Zhao whispered, rubbing her back.

    "Why are you crying?" Lei Zhao asked as he felt his heart wrenching at the sight of her tears.

    "I''m afraid Lei Zhao¡­that he would take me away. That man is a psycho. I don''t want him to take me away."

    Lei Zhao knitted his brows. Who can make his wife so afraid of him? He knew his wife was so powerful so why was she afraid of this man?

    Unbeknownst to Lei Zhao, this man wasn''t an ordinary man. Like a pest he had once crawled inside her head and nearly took her insanity.

    "Shsss¡­.no one is going to take you away Wifey. Remember you''re now stronger and you''re not alone."

    As if Lei Zhao''s words had given her hope, Yan Mei pulled away and nodded.

    "Yes,yes. I''m now stronger. I won''t be afraid of that psycho. He should rather fear me!"

    Yan Mei clenched her fist as her eyes began to turn crimson red.

    Seeing the changes in his wife, Lei Zhao nted a kiss on her forehead.

    "Hmm. Don''t let anyone get inside your head. Wifey, you''re stronger. Also since this psycho¡­.did you bad. I think you should sake revenge no? Let him experience whatever he did to you. Maybe that way you can finally let go of those bad memories."

    Yan Mei bowed her head contemting Lei Zhao''s words.

    "B-but he is dead."

    Lei Zhao frowned at her words.

    "Dead? Then why the sudden nightmare?"

    Yan Mei nodded, "Wang Lu, killed him. I saw it with my own eyes but today¡­.I bumped into a man who looked exactly like him."

    Lei Zhao scrunched his face in confusion. This thing is moreplicated than he thought.

    "When didl all of this happen?" Lei Zhao questioned.

    "S-seven years ago before I married Wang Lu. We were still going out at that time."

    A trace of light passed through Lei Zhao''s eyes.

    "Hmm. Let''s go home. We talk about thister, okay?"

    Yan Mei bit her lips and nodded.

    "Okay."

    ***Double click to view Author''s Note

 Chapter 167 Sad Broken Angel

    <h4>Chapter 167 Sad Broken Angel</h4>

    **FLASHBACK**

    Feng Mei had closed from school and was waiting for Wang Lu to pick her up when a ck SUV van stopped in front of her. She didn''t even get the chance to screamed when she was shoved in the van

    Everything happened so fast that the people standing by couldn''t do anything. The van had transported her to God knows where. When they reached they had locked her inside a dark musty cell without saying anything to her.

    Feng Mei sat on the floor, pulling her knees to her chest. She was feeling scared, small and vulnerable. Different thoughts were running through her head.

    Tears fell on her cheeks as her eyes wandered over the room she was in. It was dark and smelled awful.

    "Help! Someone help me!" She bellowed but no one minded her.

    Feng Mei had no idea how long she sat there, or the number of hours she called out for help. Her throat was dried and she felt awful.

    Suddenly she heard footstepsing closer and the cell door opened.

    Feng Mei looked up and swallowed nervously. To say the man was handsome was an understatement.

    If Feng Mei thought Wang Lu was handsome then this man was simply beautiful. The man was beyond handsomeness. It was like God took extra hours to carefully sculpt him.

    Feng Mei crawled away from him when he started walking towards her. The man oozed danger and aura around screamed deadly with an evil smirk on his face.

    The way he was staring at her sent chills down her spine. Never in her life has she met someone like this. Even though Wang Lu was cold and screamed dominance, this man-this man waspletely different. The psycho gaze he was giving her made her more nervous.

    He crouched down in front of her, grabbed her chin in his big hand. Pulling her neck up making her wince in pain.

    "So you''re his slut huh?" His grip grew tighter and ragged breath escaped from her trying to breath. Suddenly he released her and stood up.

    Feng Mei fell on the floor and she rushed back away from him

    Tears burned in her eyes and her teeth clenched together as a sob escaped her mouth.

    Seeing her action, a humorless chuckle rumbled through his chest. His hunter like eyes bore through her tear-filled ones.

    "Get up!" His thickmanding voice sounded sending shivers along Feng Mei''s spine.

    "W-who ¡­..are-you¡­.."

    The man rubbed his temples as irritation flickered on his face.

    "I''m your worst nightmare, little kitty. Now don''t let me repeat myself. Get up!"

    With shaking legs, Feng Mei stood up from the floor without looking at the man.

    The evilness in his eyes made her whole body cold. How could something look so beautiful but evil.

    "W-hy am I here?" Feng Mei asked hesitantly. She was so scared and felt like crying. She was in the middle of nowhere with a man she didn''t even know.

    The man licked his lips and he smirked.

    "Because you fell in love with someone you shouldn''t have."

    Feng Mei frowned, "Wang Lu? What has fallen in love with him as to do with this?" Feng Mei asked softly. She has read lots of books and she knew people like this couldn''t be set off.

    "Oh little kitty, everything. He is the reason why you''re here. You see in movies where the viin kidnaps the guy''s girlfriend and tortures her? Or worst kill her for revenge?"

    The man said as he walked slowly towards her. Tremors ran through Feng Mei when she saw the sadistic glint in the man''s eyes. She tried breathing in and out to calm her racing heart.

    The man held her chin making her look into his eyes. Seeing the purity and innocence in her eyes made him itchy.

    Oh he was going to have fun. He couldn''t wait to break her. He loved the fear he saw in her eyes, the beast inside him was rejoicing seeing the pleading look in her eyes.

    He turned her around, wrapping his arms around her waist from behind and lowering his head to the crook of her neck.

    "Remember little kitty, I''m going to enjoy watching you break. When you close your eyes at night while sleeping beside him, I''m all you are going to be thinking about."

    Feng Mei shivered when she felt his hot breath on her skin.

    "W-what do you want? Why-are you doing this?" Feng Mei closed her eyes as she indulged in fear.

    "Aren''t you his angel? Then I''m going to make you a sad broken angel."

    He started nibbling on her skin and Feng Mei felt her soul leave her body.

    "Are-please- don''t- rape me. " Feng Mei gathered the little courage she has left and pleaded.

    The man stepped away from her and chuckled humorlessly.

    "I''m a psycho little Kitty, not a rapist." He said as he scrunched his face in disgust.

    "Only weak men rape women. My mother taught me better. Also, I don''t want anything touched by Wang Lu."

    Feng Mei finally rxed. She had heard stories and she didn''t want to go through that.

    "T-than"

    He wrapped his hand around her neck, suddenly cutting her off.

    "Oh don''t thank me, because I''m going to fuck you up. Raping you would be much more merciful. He tightened his hand, making her cry out. When she thought she was going to die, he finally let her go. Feng Mei fell on the floor and started hyperventting and coughing.

    He crouched down in front of her with an evil smile on his first.

    "Remember from now onwards I''m going to be your biggest nightmare. Tch tch get used to me, little kitty"

    The man said andughed walking out of the cell and leaving her all alone in the dark cell.

    Nothing had prepared Feng Mei for what wasing. For the first, she knew the definition of the word ''psycho''.

    *********************

    **PRESENT**

    Yan Mei stood under the shower and tried to stop the memories from assaulting her mind. She didn''t want to visit those moments ever again.

    Turning the shower off, she wiped herself with the towel and walked out of the bathroom.

    Lei Zhao smiled at her when he saw her and beckoned at the bed.

    "Come and sit down. I would help you dry your hair."

    Yan Mei nodded and walked towards the bed. None of them said anything, just the sound of the dryer sounding in the quiet room.

    "How are you feeling now?" Lei Zhao asked softly, breaking the silence.

    "Hmm. I''m fine." Lei Zhao heaved a sigh.

    "So...I was thinking of finding a therapist for you."

    Yan Mei stiffened when she heard Lei Zhao.

    "W-why you think I''m crazy?" She asked, looking at her fingers.

    "No-no. Of course not, apart from being crazily in love with me. I don''t think you''re crazy." Lei Zhao said softly ruffling her hair.

    "Then why?"

    "Wifey...no matter how strong you are if you are mentally weak, the enemy would always win. You have so many emotional scars buried inside and I''m afraid one day they would consume you. So please¡­."

    "Okay, I would see one. I don''t want to dwell in the past anymore Lei Zhao. I want to be happy with you and I would do anything."

    Yan Mei said as she spun around to face Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao shed her a smile and smashed his lips against hers.

    "Good, we will surely ovee this, Wifey. "

 Chapter 168 Selfish

    <h4>Chapter 168 Selfish</h4>

    Yan Mei stood at the horse pastures and watched Lei Zhao and Ying Sheng race against each other.

    They both looked very eye-catching like a rich British aristocrat wearing their equestrian attire with an aura of nobility surrounding them.

    Yan Mei couldn''t stop staring at Lei Zhao. Even he is her husband and always wakes up beside him, she couldn''t get enough of his handsomeness.

    He looked like those hot models used for publicity posters for horserace sitting on his horse. Lei Zhao and Ying Sheng both rode happily. Even though they were cousins, Yan Mei could see how much Lei Zhao loved Ying Sheng like his little sister.

    "Miss, do you want to ride too?" The horse trainer asked gently. He saw Yan Mei came with Lei Zhao so he didn''t dare treat her bad.

    Yan Mei shook her head, "No"

    The trainer smiled, "What about I take you to see some horses? I''m sure you would fall in love with one."

    Yan Mei contemted for a while before agreeing.

    The trainer brought her to a fence where they were about fifteen horses. Yan Mei rested on the fence and as if the horses could sense her, they look up at her. A Friesian horse caught Yan Mei''s attention as it stared at her. The wind blew it''s hair.

    Yan Mei smiled as the Friesian horse started trotting over her. It stopped in front of Yan Mei towering above her. The horse bowed it''s head down. Yan Mei couldn''t help but softly stroke his muzzle with a soft smile on her face.

    "It likes you." The trainer said with a hint of surprise in his voice. He knew how much this horse hated strangers and it was very difficult to tame it but for some odd reason it seems docile today and it seems to like this woman.

    "Beautiful right?" Lei Zhao''s voice sounded behind making her turn around.

    "Yes, he is so beautiful!" The horse neighed as if he could hear Yan Mei praising him.

    "Do you want to ride him?" Even though Yan Mei wasn''t wearing an equestrian attire she was wearingfortable trousers so there was no problem for her to get on the horse.

    She beamed and nodded. "Yes."

    Lei Zhao turned to the trainer, "We would ride this one."

    Once the trainer brought the horse to them, Lei Zhao quickly mounted before he bent down and wrapped around Yan Mei''s waist. He settled her in front of him, her legs hanging loose on each side as she straddled the horse saddle.

    Yan Mei blushed when she felt Lei Zhao''s body behind her. As if her senses had highlighted she could smell his masculine scent fixed with sweat from his early riding with Ying Sheng.

    Lei Zhao smirked and stretched out his hand on both sides of her body pulling the reins.

    The horse neighed in excitement. "Hold on tight, Love." Lei Zhao said in a fluent British ent, surprising Yan Mei. Before she could ask him why he has that ent, Lei Zhao gently pricked the horse''s side making him trot faster.

    Yan Mei broke into a smile as she closed her eyes and the wind blew through her hair.

    Lei Zhao chortled when he saw this naive side of his wife. He wish his wife can maintain this smile forever.

    "Are you happy?" Lei Zhao asked Yan Mei softly.

    "Yes!" Yan Mei beamed and looked at the scenery.

    "Do you want me to go more faster?"

    "Yes!"

    Lei Zhao smiled, "Your wish is mymand. Hold on tighter."

    Lei Zhao spurred the horse and the horse galloped faster and faster.

    After riding for some minutes, Lei Zhao slowed down and brought them to a secluded ce.

    Yan Mei leaned against Lei Zhao''s chest as they admired the view. The breeze ruffled Yan Mei''s hair and she felt content being in Lei Zhao''s arms.

    Afortable silence fell between them as both of them got lost in their thoughts.

    Yan Mei swiftly turned around, her chest now touching his ad her legs wrapped around his hips.

    Lei Zhao raised his brows at their sudden posture and smirked.

    Yan Mei stared into his Lei Zhao''s eyes for a few seconds before she nted a soft kiss on his forehead.

    "Where did you learn how to ride?" Yan Mei inquired.

    Sadness flickered on Lei Zhao''s face but it disappeared so quickly that Yan Mei nearly missed it.

    "My brother¡­" Lei Zhao said tly.

    Yan Mei raised her brows and nodded in understanding.

    "I have heard about your brother but I have never met him, is he out of the country? When will I meet him? I have met everyone in the family except him."

    Yan Mei pouted making Lei Zhao''s lips curved into a sad smile.

    "You haven''t met him because¡­." Lei Zhao took a deep breath and continued.

    "He is dead."

    Yan Mei stiffened and widened her eyes. She could see the pain and hurt flickering in Lei Zhao''s eyes. It was the first time she has seen such a look in his eyes.

    "I-I didn''t know. I''m so sorry for your lost, Lei Zhao.."

    Lei Zhao forced out a smile, "It''s okay. You didn''t know."

    Suddenly Yan Mei felt bad. She has been so caught up in her past that she didn''t realize that she wasn''t the only one suffering.

    This man might give her shoulder to cry on at night or might put a smile on her face but he was hurting too. She didn''t even realize that she wasn''t the only one with scars.

    "Hey, what are you thinking about?" Lei Zhao asked worriedly when he noticed the shift in her mood.

    "How selfish I have been in this rtionship."

    Lei Zhao furrowed his brows at her words.

    "What are you talking about? I''m the selfish one in this rtionship, Wifey not you."

    Yan Mei smiled and decided not to argue about it. In a way both of them were selfish in this rtionship and that''s how they somehow work together.

    Yan Meiced her fingers with his and looked into his eyes.

    "I might be broken, Lei Zhao but you don''t have to always put on a strong facade in front of me. It''s okay to talk about your scars too whenever you are already, I''m here."

 Chapter 169 Challenge

    <h4>Chapter 169 Challenge</h4>

    Lei Zhao smiled when he heard Yan Mei. He flickered her forehead earning a wince from her.

    "Silly, what are you talking about? Let''s go back. Ying Sheng must be looking for us."

    Yan Mei nodded, she knew this was Lei Zhao trying to change the subject. It seems his brother was a sour topic for him and he wasn''t ready to talk about it yet.

    When they went back to the pastures, Yan Mei saw Ying Sheng surrounded by a group of people.

    She had a bored look on her face as if she wasn''t interested in whatever they were saying.

    "What is going on here?" Yan Mei asked coldly as she swept an icy re at the people surrounding Ying Sheng. The people took a step back in fright. They have no idea who this woman was but she was really intimidating.

    "Cousin, Sister Mei." Ying Sheng said respectfully as she looked at Lei Zhao and Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei had asked Ying Sheng to call her sister earlier since she felt the cousin-inw was too long.

    "Miss Lu wants to challenge Miss Ying but it seems Miss Ying is afraid so she doesn''t want to ept the challenge."

    One of Lily Lu''s followers exined with a smirk on her face. Everyone knew that Lily Lu hated Ying Sheng in the circle. Her boyfriend had once asked Ying Sheng out in front of her and since then she has hated Ying Sheng.

    She felt Ying Sheng was a vixen who had seduced her boyfriend. If not, her boyfriend wouldn''t have asked Ying Sheng''s out.

    Ying Sheng snorted when she saw the disdain in these girls'' eyes. She came to enjoy a ride with her cousin not to entertain these good for nothing people.

    She snickered as scrutinized Lily Lu.

    "Who said I''m afraid? Who am I afraid of? Why should I be afraid of a guinea pig like you?" Ying Sheng said in a bored and disingenuous tone.

    The people sucked in a harsh breath as they tried to hide their snickers. Even though the Lu family couldn''t bepared to the Ying family they had some power in the city and no one wanted to make an enemy of their daughter. Of course no one except Ying Sheng.

    "Ying Sheng! You¡­" Lily Lu swallowed her words when she saw Lei Zhao. A faint blush tainted her cheeks. She has never seen a handsome man like Lei Zhao and now she wanted him.

    She has heard rumors about how handsome Ying Sheng''s cousin is but she has never seen him. Now that she has seen him, Lily Lu knows she has finally found her prince charming.

    She was sure once this man saw her horse riding skills and how nobile she looks, he would definitely fall for her. When Yan Mei realized that Lily Lu was staring at Lei Zhao, she blocked her view.

    Lily Lu frowned when she saw someone had blocked her view. Lily Lu saw it was the woman who was riding with the man earlier. She saw the woman''s face early but didn''t see the man''s face.

    She snorted inwardly as she looked at Yan Mei''s clothes in disdain. Looking at Yan Mei''s simple trousers and polo T-shirt Lily Lu concluded that Yan Mei was an ordinary woman.

    ''How can an ordinary womanpete with me over a man?''

    With such a thought in her mind, she calmed down from her outburst and forced a smile at Ying Sheng.

    "Miss Ying, we are all friends. Why don''t we have a friendlypetition? I''m sure I would learn something from Miss Ying."

    Ying Sheng crossed her arms across her chest and narrowed her eyes. She saw the calcting look in Lily''s eyes when she looked at Lei Zhao.

    Oh so this crazy bitch wants to look good in front of her cousin? Ying Sheng''s lips curved into a yful smirk.

    "No, we are not friends. How can a guinea pig and a human being be friends? But since you''re so desperate I will race with you."

    Lily Lu clenched her fist at Ying Sheng''s words. Anger roared through her but thinking about the handsome guy who would soon be hers she swallowed back her anger.

    Ying Sheng smiled as she watched the torment of emotions on Lily Lu''s face. Why wouldn''t these people leave her alone. Ahh¡­ it''s so hard being a good girl. When you n to turn over a new leaf the devil sends his servants to test you.

    "Okay, shall we start?" Lily Lu asked through gritted teeth.

    Ying Sheng shook her head, "Not so fast." Ying Sheng said nonchntly.

    "What?" Lily Lu frowned

    "Hmm¡­..so what do I get in return if I win?" Ying Sheng askedzily.

    The people around snickered as if they have heard the biggest joke of the century. Lily Lu was captain of the city''s horse racing team. She won when six citiespeted against each other and now she has qualified topete at nationals.

    How can Ying Sheng win against her? Does she think horse racing is like riding a motorcycle?

    Lily Lu snorted in her heart. As if she could already sense Ying Sheng''s defeat she broke into a big smile.

    "Oh? What if I win what would Miss Ying give me?"

    One of Lily Lu''s followers shouted, "Teach this arrogant bitch a lesson."

    Ying Sheng chortled when she heard her.

    "Thest person who called me a bitch... let''s say alright forget it. Since I''m in a good mood I would let this one pass by. But call me B again¡­"

    Ying Sheng lips curved into an evil smirk. The person felt a shiver along her spine and pouted avoiding Ying Sheng''s gaze.

    Who didn''t know about the infamous Miss Ying? She was simply crazy and nobody wanted to get on her bad side. She even injured the prime Minister''s son with a beer bottle because he touched her ass at a party.

    "If I win, I want you to kneel and apologize for seducing my boyfriend." Lily Lu said.

    Ying Sheng yawned and nodded, "Ex-boyfriend. After all he dumped you remember?"

    "Ying Sheng¡­!"

    "Alright...if I win you would apologize to my cousin-inw for thinking about her man. My cousin is for her only and you would stop having dirty thoughts about him. I don''t want you to dirt him with your eyes."

 Chapter 170 Lost and Truth

    <h4>Chapter 170 Lost and Truth</h4>

    Yan Mei widened her eyes in surprise when she heard Ying Sheng. She wasn''t expecting Ying Sheng to say this. Warmth coursed through her as she stared at Ying Sheng with aplicated look on her face.

    "Are you touched?" Lei Zhao asked as he hugged Yan Mei from behind, resting his chin on her shoulder.

    "Yes, it feels nice to have someone back you up once a while."

    Lei Zhao chuckled, "You''re now part of the family. We wouldn''t stand by and let any guinea pig insult any member of our family." Lei Zhao said softly.

    Yan Mei chuckled and spun around to nt a soft kiss on Lei Zhao''s lips.

    Lily Lu who was watching their interaction clenched her fist as she red at Yan Mei. If looks could kill, Yan Mei would already be buried six feet down the ground. Too bad the couple were just immense in themselves and didn''t notice her.

    Ying Sheng blocked Lily Lu''s view and crossed her arms across her chest.

    "Darn, I told you, don''t dirty them with your eyes." Ying Sheng said coldly, snapping Lily Lu''s attention to her.

    "Ying Sheng don''t be too arrogant. You might call me cousin-inw in the future, who knows?" Lily Lu strode towards Ying Sheng and whispered in her ears.

    Ying Sheng chortled as if she had heard something funny.

    "You? Even dark magic won''t let my cousin look at you. You''re just¡­"

    Ying Sheng trailed off as she looked at Lily Lu up and down. Her lips twisted into a sardonic smile.

    "Nothing. Just a decorated pig. But once a pig, always a pig. "

    Without waiting for Lily Lu''s response, Ying Sheng walked out on her.

    "Hurry up and stop wasting my time."

    Lily Lu bit her lips as she stared at Ying Sheng''s back. She has never hated anyone like she hated Ying Sheng at the moment.

    Yan Mei stared at Ying Sheng''s and couldn''t help but get worried.

    "Ying Sheng do you think she would win?"

    Lei Zhao looked at Ying Sheng and a sly smile appeared on his face.

    "I don''t know...let''s watch and see. Whether she wins or not we wouldn''t let anyone bully her. Don''t worry."

    Yan Mei heard Lei Zhao and nodded. Whatever that happens she won''t let anyone bully Ying Sheng. If she wants to y let her have fun!

    Lei Zhao nced at the determined look on his wife''s face and smiled.

    Seems Ying Sheng has found herself another backer.

    *****************************************

    Ying Sheng stood beside an Arabian horse with chocte brown body and ck edging. His sliky ck mane swam down his neck and poured off his shoulder.

    The horse swept his tailzily as he stood in a confident and exquisite posture. Like his master slyness danced in his eyes as he let out a rumbling snort.

    "Ready August?" Ying Sheng asked as she patted August.

    August let out a neigh and Ying Sheng''s lips curved slightly.

    She skillfully mounted the horse and rode to the starting line.

    Lily Lu who was already at the starting line with her ck horse turned to look at Ying Sheng.

    "Miss Ying, you should admit defeat while you still have a chance. At least it would be less embarrassing."

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes and ignored Lily Lu.

    "I think social media would be interesting today when I upload the video of you kneeling before me, don''t you think so?"

    Ying Sheng nced at Lily Lu like she was a jumping clown. She retrieved her gaze as if looking at her any longer would stain her eyes.

    Looking at Ying Sheng''s nonchnt andzy look people began to whisper between themselves.

    "Who do you think would win?"

    "Miss Lu, of course. No one can beat her when ites to horse riding!"

    "I have been waiting for the face pping of this arrogant Miss Ying for a long time. Can believe it''s finally here."

    "Does anyone want to bet?"

    "Yes."

    And just like that people started betting on who would win this race.

    "Do you want to take part in the bet?" Lei Zhao asked Yan Mei .

    Yan Mei smiled and nodded, "Why should we lose an opportunity to make money?"

    Lei Zhao chuckled and nodded. Thus, only Lei Zhao and Yan Mei bet on Ying Sheng.

    The news of the race spread throughout the racecourse and people stopped whatever they were doing to watch the race.

    The horse trainer who was chosen to be the referee looked at the two women.

    Lily Lu was sitting confidently and elegantly on her horse. Looking at her posture the trainer knew she has been practicing for a long time.

    The trainer looked at Ying Sheng who was sittingzily on the horse and sigh. He began the countdown and suddenly Ying Sheng straightened up, releasing a nobility aura.

    The people around couldn''t help but be surprised.

    Howe she suddenly looked so skilled?

    "Pah!" The moment the referee sounded the whistle Lily Lu quickly galloped out.

    A gush of wind blew against Ying Sheng and her lips curved into a smile.

    She quickly followed suit. She looked so beautiful that people couldn''t stop staring at her. Even though Lily Lu was leading, people''s attention were on the red haired behind her.

    Seeing that Lily was winning her followers cheered her on.

    "Lily, Lily¡­.e on show her who is boss.!"

    "Oh my Miss Ying is losing, this would be so much fun! I''m d I came here today!"

    "I''m going to win this bet! I''m so happy."

    Yan Mei scrunched her face when she saw Ying Sheng was losing.

    "Come on Ying Sheng, you can do it! Come on!"

    Lei Zhao shook his head when he saw his wife cheering at Ying Sheng. This stupid woman.

    "Come on help me cheer her on." Yan Mei said to Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao scratched his forehead and smiled, "Alright."

    Even though it was kinda embarrassing he didn''t mind as long as his wife was happy.

    "Come on Pumpkin. I trained you better!"

    Ying Sheng nced at Lei Zhao and Yan Mei and saw them cheering her on. Her eyes met Lei Zhao and a trace of slyness passed through each other''s eyes.

    Lily Lu''s blood pounded in her ears with excitement as she saw she was leading Ying Sheng.

    Every now and then, she dared to nce behind her, dreading that Ying Sheng would overtake her but it seems she was leading Ying Sheng by a good mile and there was no way Ying Sheng could catch up with her.

    She suddenly rxed and a triumphant smile spilled from her lips. She could already envision Ying Sheng losing. And kneeling before her.

    She looked at Lei Zhao from the corners of her eyes and pouted.

    He was cheering on Ying Sheng with that ugly woman. What does he even see in her to have married her?!

    From what Ying Sheng said she knew the woman was Lei Zhao''s wife but it''s okay, she didn''t care if Lei Zhao was married. As long as he sees how spectacr she is, he would divorce that woman.

    Yan Mei bit her lips in anxiousness as she stared at Ying Sheng.

    "Hey, rx would you?" Lei Zhao teased his wife when he saw how tense she was.

    "You... aren''t you afraid she would lose?"

    Lei Zhao shrugged, "Should I?"

    Lei Zhao said as a trace of light passed through his eyes.

    ''Ying Sheng, you cunning fox.'' Lei Zhao shook his head and smirked.

    Suddenly his phone rang. Lei Zhao looked at the caller ID and raised his brows.

    "Wifey..I have to take this call. Would you be alright?"

    Yan Mei was too focused on Ying Sheng to pay attention to whatever Lei Zhao had said.

    She mumbled some incoherent words and Lei Zhao sighed.

    He moved away from Yan Mei and answered the call.

    "Ye Xing what is it? It should be something important for you to disturb me on weekends."

    Lei Zhao said tly the moment the call was connected.

    "Boss, sorry to disturb you but I have found out what happened to madam five years ago."

    Lei Zhao narrowed his eyes. He could sense there was something more based on Ye Xing''s tone.

    "What is it, Ye Xing?" Lei Zhao asked anxiously.

    "B-boss I- I think we should hide it from madam. Also, someone is also investigating should I delete all the traces left because if madam finds out the truth¡­.."

    Lei Zhao scrunched his face in confusion.

    "What are you talking about?!" Lei Zhao asked clearly, agitated by Ye Xing beating around the bush.

    "I''m afraid if madam finds out the truth she would be more hurt. Someone closer to her is responsible¡­"

    Lei Zhao stiffened, "You keep what you have found and clear all the other traces. I will see youter in my office."

    Lei Zhao said and hung up the call. ''Someone closer to her? Who?''

    Lei Zhao frowned as he fell into a deep thought.

 Chapter 171 Humiliation

    <h4>Chapter 171 Humiliation</h4>

    Just as Lily Lu was a few meters from the finishing line, her horse halted so violently that she was nearly thrown from the saddle.

    Lily Lu widened her eyes as she stabilized herself.

    "Stupid horse, what are you doing?!" Lily Lu bellowed angrily as she calmed down her racing heart.

    She gathered the reins and violently pricked the horse''s side but the horse didn''t bulge. He snorted and ignored Lily Lu.

    "You¡­.." Lily Lu''s words were cut off when she saw the scene in front of her.

    ''Ying Sheng¡­...howe.''

    Ying Sheng''s lips curved into a sneer as her eyes glinted with mischievousness. August huffed as his eyes danced with slyness.

    Lily Lu shook her head. It couldn''t be...how?!

    It wasn''t possible how can Ying Sheng caught up so easily and quickly.

    "Why? Cat got your tongue?" Ying Sheng asked breaking Lily Lu from her shook.

    "Ying Sheng, you...you cheated! How can you¡­.I was clearly leading you how could you have caught up so quickly?"

    Ying Sheng shrugged, "Who said you were leading? Where would be the fun in the game if I didn''t make you believe that you can actually win?"

    Lily Lu opened her mouth and closed it again. She can''t believe Ying Sheng yed with her mind.

    Make the enemyfortable, loosened his guard and then attack him.

    Ying Sheng had intentionally made her rx and she was so caught up in her obsessive thoughts about Lei Zhao that she didn''t realize Ying Sheng was catching up with her.

    Let the enemy get close to victory and snatch it away from him. Such a cruel tactics. Of course, Lei Zhao taught Ying Sheng this.

    "Miss Ying wins thepetition!" The trainer''s voice sounded breaking everyone out of their trance.

    They still couldn''t believe Ying Sheng won. They had seen how majestic she looked as at a speed of lightening she by passed Lily Lu. It''s like she and her horse has be one. There was something so ethereal about it that they couldn''t take their eyes off her until she reached the finishing line.

    Yan Mei jumped in excitement when Ying Sheng reached the finishing line.

    "She won?" Lei Zhao who has just arrived asked Yan Mei.

    "Yes, of course she did!" Yan Mei boosted excitedly as if she has been Ying Sheng''s coach.

    "Oh." Lei Zhao said perfunctorily.

    Yan Mei turned and yfully hit the back of Lei Zhao''s head.

    "What do you mean by just oh?"

    Lei Zhao held the back of his head with a hurt look on his face.

    "Wifey¡­.you''re so cruel. Of course I knew she would win. After all, I taught her how to ride a horse. With such a good and handsome trainer like me how can she lose to this guinea pig."

    Lei Zhao said proudly as he looked at Ying Sheng. The moment Ying Sheng let Lily Lu led he knew she was using the method he taught her. Because Ying Sheng is sopetitive how can she lose to a pampered young miss?

    "Don''t forget to collect our bet money." Yan Mei said sternly yet her voice wasced with excitement.

    "You like sports that much? I never knew you were the cheerleader type." Lei Zhao said as he wrapped his hands around his wife''s waist.

    "I wonder how you would look in a cheerleader''s outfit. Aaish...I''m getting hard just imagining you in one." Lei Zhao whispered in Yan Mei''s ear causing a faint blush to taint her cheeks.

    "Behave,Lei Zhao." Yan Mei breathed.

    Lei Zhao smirked seeing his wife''s body reacting to him.

    Lily Lu who was searching for Lei Zhao felt her heart crushing when she saw him hugging that woman. She bit her lips.

    "Are you nning on sitting on your horse the whole day, Miss Ying?" Ying Sheng taunted as she looked at Lily Lu. She was currently standing beside August.

    Lily Lu looked at the people who were once cheering for her and saw their eyes filled with gloating.

    Some of them were whispering and Lily Lu saw themughing at her.

    This was all Ying Sheng''s fault! She has lose face because of Ying Sheng. She knew by the time they leave her everyone would have already heard about what happened.

    She has been so proud because she was the ace in this country''s team but now¡­.

    Lily Lu''s eyes welled with tears. After all she was a princess and she has never suffered such humiliation.

    Angry at Ying Sheng, she cursed the horse.

    "Stupid horse!" Lily Lu said angrily as she demounted the horse. Unfortunately she lost her bnce due to the anger and fell down.

    The moment she did, the horse started urinating on her.

    Ying Sheng bursted out intoughter and the people around couldn''t help butugh at Lily Lu.

    The people around took out their phone and started recording this epic scene.

    Lily Lu trembled as her face turned red with suppressed rage and embarrassment.

    "Arghhhhhh!!!!" She screamed once the horse stepped away. The horse snorted at her and started trotting away leaving her alone on the grass.

    Ying Sheng strode towards Lily Lu and a sardonic smile spilled from her lips.

    "Tch, tch¡­.I would have helped you from there but.."

    Ying Sheng sighed feigning a helpless look.

    "I don''t want to dirty myself." She said and left Lily Lu alone.

    Lily Lu clenched her fist and helped herself up from the ground.

    She quickly ran away from the field with tears running down her cheeks. She hates... really hates Ying Sheng---that bitch! She would pay for this humiliation!

    Ying Sheng walked towards Lei Zhao and Yan Mei.

    "Brother Zhao, how was my performance?"

    Lei Zhao smirked at her, "Bad."

    Yan Mei hit Lei Zhao again making him wince in pain.

    "How can you say that." Lei Zhao sighed.

    Now his wife was abusing him because of this Ying Sheng.

    Ying Sheng stuck her tongue at Lei Zhao when she felt his deadly re.

 Chapter 172 Donâ€™t lie to me

    <h4>Chapter 172 Don''t lie to me</h4>

    Lei Zhao swallowed his grievances since these women have team up to bully him. He harrumphed and crossed his arms across his chest with a sullen look on his face.

    Ying Sheng looked at her cousin behaving like a child and chuckled. She never thought she would one day see Lei Zhao behave like a puppy abandoned by it''s owner. He looked cute though.

    "You did so well. Well done!" Yan Mei said as she patted Ying Sheng''s head.

    Ying Sheng beamed and grabbed Yan Mei''s arms.

    "Thank you,sister Mei." Ying Sheng said as she broke into a big smile.

    Lei Zhao rolled his eyes at how docile Ying Sheng is in front of Yan Mei.

    "Let''s go and eat. It''s time for lunch." Lei Zhao said.

    "Alright."

    *****************

    "Ying Sheng, how is school?" Lei Zhao asked once the waiter brought their food.

    Ying Sheng shrugged and turned to look at Lei Zhao.

    "Oh, I dropped out." Yan Mei and Lei Zhao exchanged a look. Lei Zhao heaved a sigh.

    "Why did you drop out?" He asked as he started removing the bones from the fish for his wife.

    Ying Sheng bit her lips and stole a nce at Yan Mei. She didn''t really care about other''s opinion but for the first time she was afraid someone would misjudged her.

    Yan Mei had her head lowered as she ate so Ying Sheng couldn''t see her expression.

    "I-I don''t want to do medicine! Why should I waste time on a program I totally despise?"

    Ying Sheng said with her toneced with venom.

    "What about your mother? Did she agree to this?"

    Hearing Lei Zhao mention that witch Ying Sheng remembered the day she pped her. She thought once she didn''te home her mother would panic and call her but nothing.

    That heartless woman! People says stepmothers are scary but for Ying Sheng, her mother was scarier.

    "I don''t have a mother." Ying Sheng mumbled almost inaudibly but Lei Zhao heard her.

    Lei Zhao scrunched his face in confusion at her words. He knew Ying Sheng''s mother wasn''t the best mother in the world but Ying Sheng has neverined or seemed bothered about it.

    What happened for her to say, that she has no mother?

    Yan Mei who also heard Ying Sheng paused for a while and looked up at her. She knew she was just a wife and she couldn''t take part in certain family matters but¡­.

    "Why did you say you have no mother?" Yan Mei asked with confusionced in her tone. What could make a daughter say such bold words.

    Ying Sheng fidgeted nervously and yed with her food. She swallowed the ufortable feeling gnawing inside her.

    "Well, that heartless witch doesn''t deserve to be called a mother!" Ying Sheng said angrily. Her chest moving up and down.

    "Okay, what the hell is going?" Lei Zhao asked this time. He knew Ying Sheng''s mental health was really bad and all this bad girl image started because she wanted to get her parents attention.

    He had found a therapist for her when he once walked on her trying to cut herself while she was still high.

    Lei Zhao was so petrified at the scene and up till now he still hasn''t been able to get the scene from his mind. Who would have thought his pumpkin would grow up to be a self-harm inflicting manic.

    He had asked her why? Why hurt yourself? Are you crazy?!

    Lei Zhao still remembers his outburst as the adrenaline pumped through him that day. Fortunately he arrived before she could sh the de across her arms.

    Ying Sheng hadughed. Lei Zhao had never heard augh filled with so much pain and suffering before.

    "Pain always rece the emptiness." Ying Sheng had said just said five words but it had meant so many things.

    "Lei Zhao, hey!" Yan Mei who was sitting closer to him shook his shoulders.

    " You asked a question andpletely zone out."

    Ying Sheng avoided Lei Zhao''s gaze because she knew he was probably remembering that day.

    "Sorry...Ying Sheng I''m still waiting for you to tell me what''s going on." Lei Zhao said sternly.

    "Nothing." Ying Sheng quickly retorted.

    "Don''t lie to me. Should I find out myself?" Lei Zhao snapped at her.

    Yan Mei saw Lei Zhao was getting angry. He really cared about Ying Sheng and seeing her keep things to herself was hurting him.

    Yan Mei stretched out her hand and ced it Ying Sheng''s which was on herp.

    "Hey, you can tell us anything. We are here for you."

    Ying Sheng looked at Yan Mei''s hand that was on hers and looked up at her. She looked up and met Yan Mei''s warm eyes. Yan Mei smiled softly at her and Ying Sheng felt tears welling at the back of her eyes.

    "I-I have to go to the bathroom." Ying Sheng said and excused herself to the bathroom.

    Yan Mei looked at Lei Zhao and sighed.

    "She is hiding something from us. Maybe she doesn''t want to talk about it." Yan Mei said softly to Lei Zhao.

    "Hmm." Lei Zhao said looking at ce Ying Sheng left.

    "I will talk to her, don''t worry." Yan Mei said and stood up from her chair.

    When Yan Mei got into the bathroom, she saw Ying Sheng standing in front of the mirror.

    Ying Sheng turned around when she saw Yan Mei behind her.

    "Is everything okay?" Yan Mei asked softly.

    "Sister Mei¡­.y-yes." Ying Sheng replied.

    Yan Mei nodded.

    "Alright. You know, your cousin cares about you. And you not telling him what is wrong is hurting him. It''s like you''re telling him, you don''t trust him."

    Yan Mei said calmly, looking at Ying Sheng.

    "You don''t push away those who cares about you. When you realized you need them, you might have already pushed them too far away."

    Ying Sheng stiffened as she continued to stare at Yan Mei.

    "I really like you, Ying Sheng. You''re stronger than you think."

 Chapter 173 Meet the boy

    <h4>Chapter 173 Meet the boy</h4>

    When Ying Sheng and Yan Mei came out of the bathroom, Ying Sheng bumped into someone on their way to their table.

    "Sorry¡­"

    "Ying Sheng¡­" The person''s voice cut her off. Ying Sheng looked up and saw it was Han Xi.

    "Han Xi." Ying Sheng called out tly even though her heart was racing. She hasn''t realized how much she missed him until now.

    "Yh...how are you? Sorry I have been busy, that''s why I haven''t gotten the time to call you."

    Ying Sheng''s lips curved into a sad smile and nodded.

    Seeing that she wasn''t saying anything, Han Xi rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly.

    "That...let''s go out-"

    "Han Xi!" A woman''s voice interrupted Han Xi.

    Ying Sheng turned around and saw Chen Yi, Han Xi''s girlfriend. She thought he was so busy to even call her but he had the time to take his girlfriend out on a date.

    ''Stupid, Ying Sheng¡­.always expecting that one day he would really care about you.''

    "Hey, babe. Are you done?" Han Xi said as he nted a kiss on Chen Yi''s lips when she hugged him.

    Ying Sheng looked at this scene and dug her nails into her palms. She gripped so tightly despite the fact that her palms were burning with pain. Suddenly she felt like she was choking on the air.

    "Yes." Chen Yi smiled at him. She turned around and her lips curved into a taunting smile.

    "Oh it''s Miss Ying." She said monotonously as if she just saw Ying Sheng. Her eyes fell on Ying Sheng''s clenched fist and her eyes danced with gloating.

    Of course, as a woman she knew Ying Sheng liked her man. The infamous Miss Ying liked a man who didn''t want her. So what if she is rich or pretty? She would never have the one thing she wants.

    Han Xi looked at Ying Sheng and felt a little ufortable for some unknown reason. He felt awkward as if he had been caught cheating. Guilt gnawed inside him.

    Ying Sheng ignored Chen Yi.

    "I thought you were so busy even to called me. But you have time to bring her on a date?" Ying Sheng asked in a t, quiet voice.

    Han Xi avoided Ying Sheng''s gaze.

    "Jerk."

    Ying Sheng uttered and walked passed them.

    Yan Mei who was watching this interaction narrowed her eyes but said nothing.

    After they went back to their private booth, they saw Lei Zhao waiting for them.

    "Sorry...I shouldn''t have forced you. If you don''t want to talk about it. It''s okay."

    Lei Zhao said as he shed Ying Sheng a soft smile.

    Ying Sheng nodded and yed with her food.

    "I-I had an argument with my mother and she pped me. Out of anger I walked out on her and she told me not toe back. Since then I haven''t gone home."

    Ying Sheng said after a few minutes. Lei Zhao widened his eyes and the atmosphere suddenly became gloomy.

    "She did what? She raised her hands on you?"

    Lei Zhao asked with angerced in his voice.

    Ying Sheng''s lips curved into a sad smile and nodded.

    "Hmm."

    "Where was uncle? Does he know?" Lei Zhao asked, looking at Ying Sheng, who had her head lowered.

    Ying Sheng shrugged, "Do you think he cares about me? No one cares about me. Whether I''m fine or sick. Whether I have eaten or not. I''m just....the person nobody wants."

    Ying Sheng said in a lifeless tone. Suddenly she felt warm hands on her cheeks caressing her.

    Ying Sheng looked up and met Yan Mei''s gaze.

    "Of course that''s not true. You''re too focused on those who don''t want you to notice those who really do."

    Yan Mei said softly.

    "You have Lei Zhao, Aunty and now you have me."

    Ying Sheng smiled at Yan Mei''s words and nodded.

    "Thank you Sister Mei."

    Yan Mei nodded and said nothing.

    "So where are you staying?" Lei Zhao asked suddenly.

    "With a friend." Ying Sheng said as she looked up at Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao knitted his brows, "Friend? Who?"

    Lei Zhao knew Ying Sheng had no close friends here in City S so who is this friend?

    "Yes, he is called Liam."

    "He? You''re staying with a guy?!" Lei Zhao bellowed angrily. To him, his pumpkin was still a kid. How can she already move in with a guy?

    "Let''s go. I want to meet this guy."

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes, "Why do you want to meet him?"

    Lei Zhao scratched his forehead and heaved a sigh.

    "You''re staying with a guy I don''t know. He might be taking advantage of all I know. I should warn him not to hurt you as an older cousin. Men are dangerous!"

    Yan Mei lips twisted into a smile. "Rx, I''m sure Ying Sheng can take care of herself. "

    "Yes¡­..but you don''t know. Men can be really maniptive if they want something. I hope you haven''t done anything stupid yet?"

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes.

    "I said we are just friends not lovers. Stop overreacting."

    "I''m not, I''m just concerned about you."

    Suddenly Ying Sheng''s phone rang. Because it was on the table, Lei Zhao saw the caller ID.

    ''Liam.'' He raised his brows and snatched the phone from Ying Sheng before she could answer the call.

    "Hello?" Lei Zhao said in his cold domineering CEO''s tone once he picked up the phone.

    "Hello, where is Ying Sheng? Did something happen to her? Why are you answering her phone?"

    Lei Zhao narrowed his eyes when he heard the genuine concern in the guy''s tone.

    ''He doesn''t seem bad?''

    "Who are you?" Lei Zhao asked coldly.

    Because Liam was nervous that something had happened to Ying Sheng he didn''t hear the coldness in Lei Zhao''s tone.

    "I''m her friend. Please, is everything okay?"

    "Hmm we are at Gangmene Restaurant. Come here if you''re worried about her."

    Without waiting for Liam''s reply, Lei Zhao hung up the phone.

    "You...why did you do that? Why should hee here?"

    Ying Sheng said clearly frustrated at Lei Zhao''s overprotectiveness.

    "As an older cousin, I need to meet the guy you''re staying with."

 Chapter 174 Marry her

    <h4>Chapter 174 Marry her</h4>

    When Liam got to the restaurant, he dialed Ying Sheng''s number and the person directed him into a private booth.

    Liam couldn''t help but feel scared. He was afraid something had happened to her. Wasn''t she going for horse riding with her cousin? How did she end up here?

    Lots of thoughts were running in Liam''s mind as his heart beat quicken.

    When he reached the booth, he opened and saw a man sitting inside.

    Liam furrowed his brows in confusion. ''What was going on?''

    "Hello?" He called out as he walked towards the man.

    Lei Zhao looked at the man in front of him and a trace of light passed through his eyes. He was expecting some dude with leather jackets and tattoos since those people are the ones Ying Sheng normally hangs out with but this¡­

    The guy''s hair was neatly trimmed and he was decently dressed too.

    "Liam?" Lei Zhao asked with a hint of curiosity in his voice. When and where did Ying Sheng meet such a nice boy?

    "Yes. Where is Ying Sheng?" Liam asked as he looked at the person in front of him.

    "Mr. Lei¡­" Liam trailed off when he clearly saw the face of the person in front of him.

    "You know me?" Lei Zhao asked, clearly surprised.

    "Yes. Aren''t you Ying Sheng''s cousin?"

    Lei Zhao nodded, "Sit down."

    Liam sat down and looked at Lei Zhao. He knew Lei Zhao had probably called him here for a reason.

    He couldn''t help but swallow from Lei Zhao''s cold gaze.

    "How old are you?" Lei Zhao finally spoke after a few minutes of silence.

    "Twenty-three." Liam replied.

    "Are you still in college?" Lei Zhao asked again.

    "No. Ipleted earlier and I already have a PhD."

    Lei Zhao''s eyes flickered with admiration but he quickly masked it.

    "Hmm. How did you meet Ying Sheng?"

    Liam arched his brows. Why does it feel like Lei Zhao was interrogating him?

    "At the birthday banquet of Mrs. Li. She approached me...is there something wrong?"

    Liam finally asked Lei Zhao. He wanted to know the reason for this meeting and setup.

    "Well..it depends Liam. Why are you staying together with my cousin? Do you know what the public will think when the news leaks that the heiress of the Ying empire is staying with a boy?"

    Lei Zhao said in a cold, hard voice.

    Liam frowned. He didn''t really think about the scandal this would cause if news broke out that he is staying with Ying Sheng.

    "I would be responsible if the news got leaked!" Liam said hurriedly.

    "Responsible? And how are you nning on being responsible? Will you marry her?"

    "Yes."

    Dead silence fell in the room after Liam spoke. Lei Zhao''s eyes widened in shock. Did he just say¡­.

    "Do you think marriage is a child''s y?" Lei Zhao snorted.

    Liam shifted ufortably in his seat.

    "I...I.."

    "Which household do youe from?" Lei Zhao inquired suddenly. He has met many people in the upper ss society and it''s rare to see a decent guy like Liam he has to admit.

    Based on his mannerism, he knew he was brought up well.

    "The Xia family." Liam mumbled.

    "Xia family in the northern area?" Lei Zhao asked surprisingly. This young man keeps surprising him.

    "Yes." Liam nodded. His palm was mmy at this moment.

    "Oh..does your family know you''re associated with Ying Sheng?"

    Lei Zhao knew the Xia family was a respectable family in City S. Their lives were really private and only a handful of people have seen them. You might be talking to one of them at a party and you wouldn''t even know.

    Even the media doesn''t dare report anything about them. This shows how powerful they are.

    Even though Lei Zhao doesn''t know howrge their influence is, he knew the Xia family couldpete on par with his family.

    "Yes, they do."

    Lei Zhao fell into a deep thought. As he looked at the young man in front of him.

    "What do you think about Ying Sheng?" Lei Zhao threw the unexpected question at Liam.

    Liam blushed and avoided Lei Zhao''s gaze.

    "You like her." Lei Zhao stated when he saw his reaction.

    "Ye-No. We are just friends." Liam shook his head aggressively.

    Lei Zhao chuckled at his reaction.

    "Rx. I don''t care if you like her but if you hurt her¡­."

    "I wouldn''t! Never." Liam interrupted Lei Zhao as he said boldly. How can he hurt the woman he loves. He would rather hurt himself.

    Lei Zhao looked at Liam and nodded in satisfaction.

    "Good. Ying Sheng is in the next booth. You can go and see her."

    Liam stood up and nodded at Lei Zhao.

    "I will take care of her!" Lei Zhao lips curved into a slight smile and nodded.

    Liam breathed a sigh of relief. This unexpectedly went well.

    *****************************************

    "Who is that guy, you bumped into?" Yan Mei asked Ying Sheng once they were alone. Lei Zhao had ordered another private booth to talk to Liam leaving both of them alone.

    Ying Sheng stiffened, "He is a friend."

    Yan Mei lips curved slightly, "Hmm...just a friend?"

    Ying Sheng blushed and nodded.

    Yan Mei nodded. "With your reaction I thought he was an ex." Yan Mei chuckled as she said.

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes and busted intoughter.

    "No-no. It''s just¡­..plicated."

    Yan Mei nodded, "It''s okay. You''re still young. It''s normal to haveplicated feelings. If you need someone to talk to or ask anything I''m here."

    Ying Sheng smiled, "Alright."

    "What is taking this man so long?" Yan Mei pouted looking at the entrance.

    Ying Sheng also looked at the entrance. She breathed a sigh of relief when she saw Liam.

    "Liam, hey. I hope my cousin didn''t scare you."

    Ying Sheng said as she stood up and walked towards him.

    Liam shook his head and shed her a smile.

    "Hello." He greeted Yan Mei respectfully.

    "Hello." Yan Mei nodded and stood up.

    "I will go find Lei Zhao. See youter, Ying Sheng."

    Yan Mei nodded at them and left them alone.

 Chapter 175 Girlfriend

    <h4>Chapter 175 Girlfriend</h4>

    When Ying Sheng and Liam got home, they saw a woman standing in front of their apartment. The woman seemed to be in her mid forties and had on a simple floral white dress.

    Her ck hair was up in a low bun and had on a little make up. The energy she reverberated off her screamed elegance and sophisticated.

    Ying Sheng knew the woman might have been a beauty when she was younger not like the years had done anything to her beauty.

    A warm smile spilled from her mouth when she saw them exuding a warm and motherliness aura.

    Though Ying Sheng had no idea who the woman was, Liam knew who she was.

    His mother. He inwardly groaned. That Lucas, he swears he would murder him!

    "Liam!" His mother said excitedly as she pulled Liam into a tight hug.

    "Oh, I missed you. You have left me all alone in that big house. I feel lonely."

    Liam hugged his mother back and smiled. He missed his mother.

    "Don''t be too dramatic mom, you would get wrinkles. You just saw me one month ago."

    Mrs Xia yfully hit his shoulders, "Who would get wrinkles. I''m still pretty and young."

    Liam shook his head at his mother. Lucas''s lively energy was from their mother while he was more like his father-reserved.

    When they pulled away,his mother pretended like she has now seen Ying Sheng by her son''s side.

    She has always wanted to meet the infamous Miss Ying who has her son smitten with her.

    Ever since Lucas came to tell her, her son is living with Ying Sheng she has been dying toe here but her husband has forbidden her.

    But today much to her husband''s disapproval she had snuck away when he went for a business meeting. How can she let go of the opportunity to see the girl her shy son likes!

    She has been dying for Liam to meet a girl he likes but her son was so shy and quiet she was afraid he would die a bachelor.

    "Oh?" She arched her brows acting surprised.

    "Who is this? She asked, her lips pulled into a smile.

    "Mother, this is Ying Sheng my.."

    "Oh my, is she your girlfriend?!" She beamed cutting Liam off.

    Liam and Ying Sheng exchanged a look and Liam shook his head vigorously.

    "No, mom. She isn''t." Liam said a blush creeping on his face.

    "There is no need to be shy, Liam. I''m your mother, you can be honest with me. How can you hide such a beautiful girl from me."

    "Mother!"

    Mrs. Xia ignored Liam and pulled Ying Sheng into a hug. Ying Sheng stiffened and she didn''t know what to do. Before she could react,the woman pulled away but both of her hands were still holding onto the sides of her arms.

    With a big smile stered on her face she greeted Ying Sheng.

    "Hy Shengsheng! I''m Liam''s mother nice to meet you! You can call me Cookie."

    ''Shengsheng? Cookie?'' Ying Sheng tried to hide the slight twitch of her mouth.

    How can Liam''s mother be so young and elegant?

    "Oh Liam, I like this girl. Don''t worry you have my approval!"

    Mrs. Xia startedughing causing a confused frown to form on Ying Sheng''s face.

    "Dear, I''m not young. Also thank you for thepliment!"

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes. Did she say that aloud?

    "Yes, you did. So how did you meet Liam?"

    Ying Sheng has never been so grateful to hear the sound of her phone ringing. She didn''t even know what to say to this woman.

    "Oh you have a call. I will wait for you to tell me your love story!"

    "Mother!" Liam said frustrated as he grabbed hold of his mother''s hand and dragged her away from Ying Sheng.

    Ying Sheng looked at the caller ID and scrunched her face.

    ''What does he want?''

    Contemting for a while she answered the call.

    "Ying Sheng, how are you?"

    Her father''s voice sounded on the other side of the phone.

    "Do you want something?" She asked nonchntly ignoring her dad''s question.

    Mr. Ying heaved a sigh.

    "Can''t I call my daughter to ask her how she is doing?"

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes and tapped her feet impatiently.

    "Oh, I thought you have forgotten you have a daughter. Mr Ying. Tell me what you want, I''m busy."

    "Ying¡­."

    "I will hang up the phone. If you don''t tell me what you want!"

    "Let''s meet. I want to tell you something."

    Ying Sheng knitted her brows. What did he want to tell her?

    "What? Can''t you say it on the phone?" Ying Sheng asked tly.

    "No. I will wait for you at our restaurant. You know the room reserved for us. Please..e."

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes. Whatever he was going to tell her must be important for him to even beg her.

    Now Ying Sheng was curious. What could it be?

    Ying Sheng entered the house and saw Liam whispering incoherent words with his mother.

    She cleared her throat and they turned to look at her. A blush taint Liam''s cheeks as he avoided her gaze.

    Gosh, this was so awkward.

    "I-my dad called me. He said I should meet him at Golden Tower restaurant so I have to go."

    Liam stood up from the couch and strolled towards her.

    "Do you want me toe with you? Are you okay?" He asked with deep concernced in his tone.

    Mrs.Xia smirked as if she was watching drama unfold in front of her. Oh, who would have thought she would see this caring side of his son one day.

    Ying Sheng lips twisted into a smile.

    "No. Your mom is here. You have to apany her. I would be fine. Can I get your car keys?"

    Liam nodded and walked to the center table to pick his car keys for her.

    "Take care and call me if you need me."

    Ying Sheng nodded.

    "It was nice to meet you, Cookie."

    Ying Sheng said awkwardly.

    Mrs. Xia beamed and waved her hands.

    "It was so nice to meet you too Shengsheng. I guess I will see you around." She smiled.

    Ying Sheng nodded and walked away.

 Chapter 176 Arranged Marriage

    <h4>Chapter 176 Arranged Marriage</h4>

    "You have embarrassed me, mother." Liam groaned as he ran his hand over his face, sighing deeply.

    Mrs. Xia smiled as if she didn''t hear what her son had said.

    "Oh, Liam I was just trying to help"

    "Help?" Liam asked slowly, watching his mother''s expression closely as it contour from scheming to a knowing smile.

    "Yes. I know you like her and I saw you blushing. I''m your mother, Liam you can''t lie to me."..

    Mrs Xia winked at Liam. Liam scoffed at his mother.

    "What did that stupid Lucas tell you. I will kill him when I see him!"

    Mrs Xia chuckled and changed the subject.

    "Have you eaten yet? Let me cook for you."

    Liam shook his head. He was about to have lunch when he was asked by Lei Zhao to meet him. Liam sighed. He knew Lei Zhao was worried about Ying Sheng so he didn''t mind his interrogations.

    Mrs. Xia walked to the kitchen and opened the refrigerator. She narrowed her eyes when she saw the ingredients stocked in the fridge.

    She knew her son couldn''t cook so she sends him food every week ores personally to cook for him.

    "Have you learned how to cook by yourself?" Mrs Xia said surprised.

    "No, I can''t cook. Ying Sheng does the cooking."

    Mrs Xia nodded. She wasn''t expecting the rich heiress to know how to cook. Good thing, she didn''t listen to rumors about Ying Sheng.

    **************************

    Twenty minutester, Liam sat opposite his mother bringing his te towards him. His mother had prepared his favorite noddle for him. A smile graced his lips as he dug in his food

    "So how is work?" Mrs Xia asked as she twirled her fork into her te before bringing it to her lips.

    "Good." He replied with his head still buried in his food.

    Mrs Xia frowned slightly. "I hope you are not overworking Liam. You''re still young and should be enjoying life. If you decide not to work for the rest of your life, our family money can sustain you and your great great great grandchildren. Why do you insist on working hard?"

    Liam inwardly groaned. Not this conversation again. His mother has always been against him building his ownpany and working at this age. She said he was too young and should be enjoying life.

    While some parents wanted their child to be responsible and avoid trouble his mother was the exact opposite. That''s why his brother was so carefree. When they were growing up their mother told them,

    "Have fun. Do anything that makes you happy. If there is a mess, I will be there to clean it up."

    Who would say that? His mother. His parents were so different but somehow they worked together.

    "I''m fine,mother. No need to worry. Didn''t you tell us to do anything that makes us happy? I love my job and it makes me happy."

    Mrs Xia snorted but said nothing as they ate in silence. Mrs Xia picked and ced the dirty yed into the sink .

    "Actually, the Gu family came to seek a marriage alliance. They wanted us to merge our real estate business together in a business marriage."

    Liam stiffened and widened his eyes. The Gu family and the Xia family had been friends for a very long time so everyone knew a business marriage was inevitable but¡­.

    "They wanted you to marry their daughter since you know...your brother has quite the reputation."

    Liam''s mind went nk and he couldn''t hear anything his mother said again.

    ''Marriage?'' If Liam hadn''t met Ying Sheng, he would have married the young miss of the Gu family. After all, he knew it was his responsibility as his father''s son but now¡­.

    His love story hasn''t even begun but it was already ending.

    "Hey, Liam are you listening to me?!" His mother''s harsh voice snapped him out of his thoughts.

    "Please don''t tell me Dad agreed." Liam mumbled.

    Mrs Xia forced a smile, "I''m sorry Liam¡­.."

    Liam''s face paled and he felt like his soul had been sucked out of him.

    "No. I don''t want to marry the young miss of the Gu family."

    Mrs Xia eyes flickered with amusement but she quickly masked it.

    "Why, Liam? You don''t have a girlfriend or anyone you like why don''t you want to marry her. She is pretty, ssy and intelligent too. You would first get engaged first and when you turn twenty-five you guys would get married."

    Liam shook his head aggressively. "No, no I already like someone else." Liam said clearly irritated.

    "Who?" His mother asked in disbelief.

    "Ying Sheng!"

    Liam stiffened when he realized what he has said. This is the first time he has vocally expressed that he likes Ying Sheng.

    "I like Ying Sheng and I won''t marry anyone apart from her."

    Liam and his mother stared at each other for a fleeting second before Mrs Xia busted intoughter.

    Mrs Xia felt extremely happy and had tears brimming her eyes. She hadn''t heard her son refused their request before nor has he vocally expressed what he wants. He bottles everything inside him and never argues about anything.

    But today he didn''t only refused their request he vocally expressed his feelings for a girl.

    Liam frowned when he saw his motherughing. Shouldn''t she be angry?

    "Don''t worry, Liam. Your father didn''t know about Ying Sheng so he agreed. He thought you couldn''t woo a girl so an arranged marriage would be good for you.

    But Lucas convinced himst night and he gave you six months. He said if within six months you haven''t been able to win Miss Ying or bring home any girl as your girlfriend he would arrange the marriage for you."

    Liam sighed and rubbed his temples. It seems he owes Lucas one. If not for him, he would have lost Ying Sheng forever.

    Mrs Xia patted his shoulders.

    "Good luck son. You have six months to make her yours, if not I''m sorry. You would have to marry the young miss of the Gu family. This is the arrangement your father made with the Gu family."

 Chapter 177 Family arguments

    <h4>Chapter 177 Family arguments</h4>

    When Ying Sheng got to the restaurant, she saw her father wasn''t alone. Her mother too was sitting in the private.

    She arched her brows as she strolled towards her parents.

    "I didn''t know we were having a family reunion. I would have worn a pretty dress."

    Ying Sheng said sarcastically as she sat down. She didn''t even greet her parents.

    "Ying Sheng, you came." Mr. Ying said as he shed her a smile.

    "Hmm. Out of curiosity and boredom I decided toe. Also, I got touched after all almighty CEO Ying said please to a lowly me."

    Ying Sheng said as she picked up the wine they had opened and poured herself a ss.

    "So¡­..why is going on that I have the honor to see such busy people who doesn''t even have time for their daughter. It must be something important, right Miss Su?"

    Ying Sheng chuckled taking a sip of her wine with a bored look on her face.

    Su Cha nced at Ying Sheng and she scrunched her face in disgust at her choice of clothes. Ying Sheng was wearing a ck leather jacket over a white crop top and a ck skinny jeans.

    "Don''t talk to your mother like that, Ying Sheng." Mr. Ying said sternly as if he was scolding a child.

    "You''re toote to y parent, Mr.Ying." Ying Sheng growled in a cold voice.

    "I''m not trying to y parent. I''m your dad, so try to be a little respectful."

    "Or what?" Ying Sheng mumbled as her lips curved into a sardonic smile.

    "Will you punish me? Take away my favorite toy? Not allow me to watch my favorite cartoons or take away something that is precious away from me? Oh wait, you can''t do any of that because you''re....."

    Ying Sheng counted her fingers, "Twelve yearste."

    Mr. Ying felt the blood drained from his face at her words as his expression changes in an instant. He flinches like he has been pped across the face.

    The look on his face didn''t phase Ying Sheng because she was right.

    An awkward silence fell between them before Mr. Ying cleared his throat.

    "How have you been?" He asked softly.

    Ying Sheng scoffed at her father''s tatics to change the subject.

    "Alive, as you can see." Mr Ying nodded.

    "What about school, how is your studies?" Mr. Ying continued to ask.

    ''Seriously? Is this man high or something?''

    "I dropped out." Ying Sheng chuckled dryly as she said.

    "You did what?!" Su Cha who hasn''t spoken a word finally eximed.

    "I left for a few days and your ears are already failing you? Didn''t you hear what I said?" Ying Sheng looked up at her mother.

    "I. Drop. Out. " I hope you heard this time around.

    "You stupid vile creature,how can you drop out of school? Who gave you the right to drop out? Do you want people tough at us? When would you stop being selfish and start thinking about the family!"

    Su Cha said as she pointed at Ying Sheng with her middle index finger angrily.

    ''Stupid vile creature.'' Ying Sheng couldn''t hear herself think as the words of her mother rang in her ears. When they said words can kill they weren''t lying.

    No feelings. No thoughts. No pain. She was just numb. How can a mother spat such hateful words at her own daughter.

    Ying Sheng gulped down the rest of her wine and ced it on the table.

    "Since we are all here, I want to ask if I''m adopted. That''s why you called me here right? To tell me the reason why you can''t stand the sight of me is because I''m adopted. And you have found your real daughter."

    Ying Sheng chuckled dryly as she nced at her parents.

    "Have you found the real phoenix of the Ying family?"

    Mr. Ying frowned when he heard Ying Sheng.

    "What are you talking about? Of course you''re my daughter! Why would you think you''re adopted?"

    Mr. Ying snapped angrily.

    "Why wouldn''t I think I was adopted?! When were you ever a parent to me?"

    Ying Sheng chuckled humorlessly, shaking her head.

    "Ying Sheng¡­..don''t say that. We might not be the best parents but we love you. That''s why we called you here. Your mother and I have talked and we have decided to make it up to you."

    Ying Sheng snorted, "You wanted to make up for twelve years of negligence by calling me a ''stupid vile creature.'' Hmm okay. Anything else? I''m busy I need to go."

    Mr. Ying rubbed his temples and red at his wife who has been indifference throughout the meeting. It''s like she wanted to be anywhere but here.

    Sensing her husband''s cold gaze Su Cha finally spoke.

    "Sorry...I just don''t want you to throw away your life."

    Su Cha said bleakly. "As a mother I naturally want what''s best for you. At times you make stupid reckless decision and it''s my responsibility to make sure you don''t mess up your life."

    Ying Sheng stared at the woman in front of her. There was no trace of motherly affection in her aura or eyes. She said those words like a robotic, no meaning just spating excuses to make up for a negligence.

    Ying Sheng busted into pearl of mockingughter as if she has heard the world''s greatest joke.

    "Reckless decision?" Ying Sheng asked as she swirled the wine ss in her hand.

    "Yes, reckless stupid decision. What makes you think you can move in with a boy at such a young age? What would the public think if news got out?!" Su Cha retorted.

    "Public, public that''s all you care about?! You don''t care about me, your daughter. Only your face and prestige as the elegant phnthropist matters to you! When will you truly cares about me mother. When would you look at me straight in the eyes and ask me how am I. When?"

    Ying Sheng mumbled. "At times I think that maybe you would finally notice me when I die. Would you mother? Would you even notice that I''m gone when I die? Will your ice cold heart ache for the unloved daughter who is no more?"

 Chapter 178 Broken family

    <h4>Chapter 178 Broken family</h4>

    Author''s Note: Chapter mentions rape if ufortable please skip. Lots of love. This chapter was hard to write I cried? Hahaha jk lololol

    ****I try to convince myself that what happened is all a bad dream when I wake up everything will be fine but no the scars still remains, taunting me I wasn''t strong enough and the worst part is you can''t tell anyone. Because you know they will me you******

    -unknown.

    Su Cha stiffened when she heard Ying Sheng. She looked away and ignored Ying Sheng as if she wasn''t talking to her.

    After all she didn''t have the answers to her questions. What would she do if Ying Sheng dies?

    Absolutely nothing. How can you mourn for someone you don''t love? For her, Ying Sheng''s whole existence was the proof of her biggest stain in life.

    Why would her heart ache for such stain? She was trapped in twenty years of loveless marriage because of Ying Sheng.

    Her aims and dreams were all crushed. She just had to sit at home and be the pretty wife of Ying Huai. All her bitters were poured on her daughter.

    It''s not like she didn''t try to be a good mother to Ying Sheng. She did, but her hate consumed her and overshadowed her love for her daughter.

    Ying Sheng looked at her mother avoiding her gaze and chuckled mirthlessly.

    "Ying Sheng¡­.of course your mother loves you. It just she is bad at expressing herself." Her father coax as his eyes shed with a bit of sadness.

    "Love? Pftt¡­..if this is love then I wonder what hate is!" Ying Sheng yelled infuriated.

    Mr. Ying sighed and racked his fingers through his hair. He wanted to tell Ying Sheng about the divorce but¡­.from the way she is behaving he was afraid of her reaction.

    "Don''t say that. No parents hates their child. Remember we have given you everything you wanted when you were growing up. We weren''t around most of the time but we made sure to give you the best of everything. All our hard work is for you."

    Mr. Ying said as he stretched his hands to pat Ying Sheng''s hair but she moved away.

    "You didn''t give me everything dad. You miss the most important thing. Love. I just want to be loved is it too much to ask? I don''t care about money! All I wanted was a bit just a tiny bit of your love and affection." Ying Sheng mumbled.

    Her mind was in chaos now. Something was bothering her, aching inside her. She want-needed to know. Why? Why a mother who has gone through the pain of childbirth would hate her child to this extent. Her strong facade was slowly cracking.

    "Ying Sheng¡­."

    "Why?" Ying Sheng lowered her head and asked interrupting his father.

    Mr. Ying frowned at her question.

    "Why what?" Mr. Ying asked looking at Ying Sheng.

    "Why do you hate, mother? What did I do for you to hate my mere existence? I want to know. Every night I go to bed hoping that one day my mom will love me. She would look at me with her eyes gleaming with love and affection but now¡­."

    Ying Sheng trailed off.

    "Now, I''m giving up this hopeless wish.. But before I let go¡­.I want to know. It''s the least thing you can do me right? Just tell me the truth."

    Su Cha fidgeted in her seat. An unknown emotion flickered in her eyes. She didn''t want to keep this to herself anymore. Why should she be the only to suffer?

    "Do you really want to know?" She snickered as she asked Ying Sheng.

    "Su Cha...". Mr. Ying said in a low dangerous tone. Warning evident in his tone.

    "What? Your daughter deserves to know the truth! It''s time she knows what kind of person she has for a father. Her precious father is nothing but a monster!"

    "Pah!" The sound of a hand connecting with skin echoed in the room. Ying Sheng widened her eyes when she saw her mother head sideways with a pale look on her father''s face.

    Su Cha scoffed in response and busted intoughter as she rubbed her finger against her cheeks.

    Mr. Ying stared at his hand like it had turned into an alien.

    "Su¡­.. I-I didn''t¡­... no-no¡­...what have I done?!"

    Mr. Ying muttered incoherent words as he bowed his head down in shame. He has be his biggest fear. A man who hits a woman.

    Su Cha ignored her husband and turned to look at Ying Sheng.

    "You wanted to know why I don''t love you?! Why I hate your existence?! Why I tried killing you more than once?!"

    Su Cha bellowed angrily as If she had lost her mind.

    Ying Sheng''s face paled and she started shaking. She has never seen such raw hate in her mother''s eyes before. It felt like her veins were closing up and not allowing blood flow. Her head felt fuzzy from the venom words spat by her mother.

    ''She even tried to kill her¡­.not once....''

    "Because you''re a stain in my life, Ying Sheng! A stain that no amount of wash can clean! How can I love a child born out of rape?! Do you know how it feels when the person you trust the most betrays you?!

    Do you know the fear, the helpless, how the whole world suddenly became dark because the person who was supposed to protect you crumbles you instead.

    I screamed, fought, begged him to stop. I told him it hurts... please¡­..don''t .... please¡­..but the guy who was supposed to be my best friend didn''t stop. He brutally raped me! He shattered my whole world."

    Ying Sheng had tears in her eyes as her mother reveal to her, her pain.

    "Do you know the scars I had to live with? The demons I had to fight at night, my fears, insecurities. My lonely tears at night. I couldn''t even stare at myself in the mirror because I couldn''t stand the sight of my body. Body stained with dirt.

    When I do I saw his face

    His touch

    I see a coward . Maybe if I had fought a little more¡­."

    Tears fell from Ying Sheng''s face, as her mother''s words echoed in her mind.

    "When I told my dad he pped me. How can the almighty young master of the Ying family rape me?! I should be happy he did! Can you believe that? It''s an honor to be raped. Who says such words to his daughter?!"

    Su Cha breathed heavily as memories shed the her mind.

    "I was just eighteen at that time. I had dreams, aims but it all got crushed. Oh the worse part wasn''t that I was forbidden to tell anyone. No, the worst part was two monthster I found out I was pregnant. I was pregnant with my rapist baby. You¡­."

    Su Chaughed manically.

    "You should have seen how happy my dad was. I begged him to let me abort the baby but he didn''t. He pped and warned me.

    This baby is my ticket to a luxurious life! A ticket for the Su family to finally gain foot in City S. Do you know how it feels to be young, and used as a pawn? My feelings were never put into consideration! I had to leave everything----even the love of my life."

    Ying Huai looked away as he ran his hand over his face. He was also a victim. They all were.

    "I was drugged! I told you..."

    "Shut up!" Su Cha snapped angrily.

    Ying Sheng''s heart ached so much she thought her heart would even stop beating from the pain. She tightened her fists so hard, they turned pale.

    ''Daughter born out of rape. How can she ask for love? What right does she have to deserve to be love? She didn''t deserve to be loved. No-no monsters like her didn''t deserve anything. The source of someone''s pain.''

    "I stayed in a loveless marriage with my rapist for twenty years because of you! Every night I have to sleep on the same bed with the same person who broke me. I need to smile and look pretty in front of the camera every time I go out. Do you know what years of bottling up your scars does to you? Giving birth to you is enough punishment.So how can you be cruel to ask me to love you huh? You''re an abomination undeserved of love!"

    "Shut up!" Ying Sheng eximed, immense rage boiling inside her.

    She stood up from the couch.

    "Ying Sheng¡­.." Her father tried to grabbed her wrist but she flinched so violently shocking him.

    "Don''t touch me!" She screamed at him.

    Mr. Ying stood frozen, his gaze fixed on her. Both horrified and frightened by her sudden reaction.

    Ying Sheng stormed out of the restaurant without looking back.

    She hated him.

    She hated her.

    She hated them.

 Chapter 179 His Redemption

    <h4>Chapter 179 His Redemption</h4>

    "You¡­.what have you done?!" Mr. Ying bellowed angrily once he was alone with his wife.

    "Why did you tell her? How can you spat such disgusting words at your daughter?! Even if you hate me, she is innocent. She doesn''t deserve this."

    Mr. Ying tugged at his hair as frustration gnawed at his insides.

    Su Cha sat there with a nonchnt face but she knew she was anything but calm at the moment. She has always wanted to pour out the feelings she has bottled up for years but why wasn''t she happy?

    This is what she has always wanted right? Then why didn''t she feel not even an ounce of satisfaction. Just like smoke her mind was in chaos taunting her, making her feel something was wrong.

    She wanted to pinpoint the cause for this unsettling feeling but failed. She just sat there, tears pricking her eyes, her hands trembling with sadness and regret.

    "I told you our daughter was suicidal but you still went ahead and told her such cruel secrets! We came here to make it up to her not to break down this family!"

    Su Cha''s mind was in a swirl, like a puzzle she couldn''t understand anything.

    "I told you I was drugged that night. For years I tried making it up to you. I already liked someone why would I rape you; my best friend?! You knew how much she meant to me. I would never do anything to hurt her but you''re so selfish, caught up in your head that you''re the only victim here.

    I investigated that night and found out your parents nned all of this but I never told you! Even though your father is horrible he is still your father. I didn''t want you to hate him so I took the me. I stopped convincing you that I was drugged that night.

    Didn''t I give you everything you wanted? I even allowed you to be with that man.Do you want to know why I intentionally let you saw me fucking the maid? Or pushed you away?"

    Su Cha lowered her head in her hands. No-no how can her parents do this? How can a father scheme against his daughter? So¡­.all these years she has been ming the wrong person.

    "Guilt. Because of guilt. You think you''re the only one who lost something that night? No! I also hated myself. I have be a rapist¡­..a monster."

    Mr. Ying chuckled dryly. "But¡­.you found out you''re pregnant. I was happy I was just twenty at that time but I was excited that I was going to be a father. Ying Sheng might be your stain, but she is my redemption! I left home because I knew you hated me because of that I lost my rtionship with my daughter."

    Su Cha looked up at Mr. Ying and opened her mouth. But no words came out.

    ''What has she done?''

    "I-I¡­."

    "You better hope that nothing happens to my daughter or else¡­.."

    With that Mr. Ying walked out of the room leaving Su Cha alone with her thoughts.

    Sobs racked through Su Cha''s body as the words of Mr. Ying sunk in her head. Her own parents did this to her. They used her as a pawn in their quest for power.

    Suddenly she realized she has be exactly like her parents. She has hurt her daughter, how does that makes her any different from her parents?

    ***************************

    Ying Sheng had no idea how she reached the bar. It was not even night yet but here she was. Her mind was in chaos every word uttered by her mother rang in her ears like an rm.

    So annoying. She wanted to snapped at them to stop. But she was failing miserably.

    She wanted to know the truth but the truth was far cruel. Truth hurts they say and that wasn''t a lie.

    Her heart was pounding in her chest at the overwhelming thoughts that kept overcrowding her brain.

    She doesn''t deserve to be love. She was a shame. A stain in someone''s life, how dare she ask to be loved? What right¡­..

    "Miss, are you okay?" The bartender asked worriedly when he saw the tears on Ying Sheng''s face and how pale her face is.

    Ying Sheng chortled manically making the bartender frowned.

    "Okay¡­..what does it mean to be okay?" Ying Sheng mumbled gulping down her vodka.

    The bartender shook his head and heaved a sigh. He always see people whoe here to drown their sorrows with alcohol so this was nothing new.

    "Do you want more?" He asked arching his brows at her. This is her seventh shot already.

    "Give me a whole bottle, no three bottles and a packet of cigarettes." Ying Sheng lips curved as she threw her credit card at the bartender.

    The bartender shook his head and shrugged. Once Ying Sheng got her bottles of liquor and her cigarettes she took them to the rooftop of the bar.

    There was no one around since the day was pretty early. She sat down on the cold hard floor as she popped the cap of the bottle open.

    "You were born out of rape."

    "You, Ying Sheng is my biggest stain in life."

    "How can you be cruel to ask me to love you!"

    "Giving birth to you is enough punishment."

    "You are an abomination undeserved of love."

    Her mother''s words kept racing in her mind.

    Ying Sheng chuckled to herself taking another swig from her bottle.

    "No one wants me."

    "No one loves me, no¡­.. I-I how dare I to think about being loved."

    Ying Sheng sobbed feeling like someone were ruthlessly stomping on her heart.

    "Me. Ying Sheng¡­..I shouldn''t have been born."

    Ying Sheng mumbled lifelessly as tears roamed down her cheeks.

    "Aahhh, ahhh it hurts." She mumbled numbly.

    It hurts so badly. She wants the pain to stop. Why won''t the pain stop?

    Maybe if she dies, it won''t hurt anymore. After all, she wasn''t supposed to be born.

 Chapter 180 Never let go

    <h4>Chapter 180 Never let go</h4>

    Liam scrunched his face as he stared at his phone. He couldn''t help but get worried about Ying Sheng.

    ''Was she okay?'' He knew her rtionship with her parents was not the best. He was afraid they

    would tigger her and make her sink deep in a void of no return.

    Liam paced back and forth contemting if he should call her. Heaving a sigh, he dialed her number.

    Ying Sheng sat on the floor rocking her body as she tried to stop the voices in her head. Suddenly the sound of her phone ringing snapped her out of her thoughts.

    Ying Sheng looked at the caller ID and saw it was her father. She red at the phone screen as the harsh sound of her ringing tone kept sounding.

    "Shut up!" She yelled at the phone but the phone kept ringing.

    Annoyed, she threw the phone at the wall. Suddenly the harsh sound stopped and everything became quiet leaving her alone to fall in her abyss.

    "Sorry the number you''re currently calling can not be reached."

    The robotic voice sounded. Liam''s heart skipped a beat as dread gnawed at his inside.

    He ran his hand through his hair. Suddenly a light bulb went off his head. Since Ying Sheng took his car, he can track his car and find out where she is.

    Fortunately he had an extra car. Picking his car keys he rushed out of his house.

    Half an hourter, he stopped in front of the ce his GPS had shown. Liam frowned when he saw it was a bar.

    Did her father want to meet her at a club? Liam got down from the car and entered the high ss bar. Because it was still early the ce wasn''t packed yet.

    "Hey, have you seen a red haired woman in ck leather jacket and ck jeans?"

    Liam asked the bartender who was busily mixing drinks.

    The bartender nced at Liam and narrowed his eyes.

    "At the rooftop. You would want to hurry because she looked pretty messed up."

    Liam''s heart hammered in his chest as he rushed to the rooftop.

    He stopped in his tracks when he saw the scene in front of him.

    "Y-ying Sheng¡­.." Liam''s voice cracked as fear gripped his whole body. Panic run along his spine and he felt the air leaving his lungs.

    "Ying Sheng¡­..what are you doing?"

    Ying Sheng was far gone to hear anything happening around her. She was standing at the edge of the rooftop with her eyes closed. Her hands were held in front of her, palms facing the sky. The wind brew her red hair as loneliness groomed her back.

    She looked so deste and lonely as if the world has abandoned her.

    Ying Sheng''s mind was foggy, depressed and hopeless. She opened her eyes and peered down from above as the street cars moved along the road in a speed.

    The world continued as it was, not pausing for a moment to give the sad lonly girl a reasuring look that everything is going to be okay.

    The pain hit her in a fresh wave,leaving a numbing ache in her heart. Maybe this is it.

    All these years she has been fighting a battle and now she was tired. What''s the point of living an unhappy life where no one wants you? Ying Sheng chuckled dryly as tears flood down her cheeks.

    This is it, she guess.

    Freedom.

    Just as she was about to jump, she heard a voice. A voice full of fear and panic. It''s like the person really cared about her. She tumbled over her feet.

    "Ying Sheng¡­. don''t do it. Please¡­."

    Ying Sheng turned her head and nced at the person.

    Was it tears?

    Why was he crying?

    Did someone really cared?

    Seeing her in a daze, Liam cautiously walked towards her.

    "Give me your hands. You promised not to fight this alone. We are supposed to fight the war alone. You''re not alone anymore. Please¡­...just give me your hands." Liam said softly as his heart raced in his chest. He has never been this afraid in his life.

    Ying Sheng nced at his stretched hand and tilted her head.

    ''Can I trust him?

    I''m I not alone anymore?

    Can he help me?

    No-no the real question is, do I want to wake up in this depressed world again?''

    "Remember you want to open a bakery shop, which would brighten people''s day. Don''t you want to put a smile on a kid''s face? Don''t you want someone to say, I''m happy because I ate Miss Ying''s special recipe? At least, this should be enough for you to keep living. Think about those who loves you¡­."

    Liam sucked in a harsh breath.

    "Your cousin, Lei Zhao¡­...are you going to leave him? He...he¡­. Do you want him to live with guilt the rest of his life? Because I''m sure he would me himself for losing you."

    Liam was beginning to panic. He has never said so many things in one breath before.

    "I-Do you want to leave me?" Liam mumbled as his eyes flickered with an intense emotion.

    Ying Sheng gazed into Liam''s eyes and her lips curved into a sad, wistful smile.

    "But¡­.I don''t want to hurt anymore. My heart¡ªit hurts so badly. I ¡­.want it to stop."

    Ying Sheng''s voice cracked with so much vulnerability that nearly suffocated Liam.

    "Yes¡­.we will make it stop. Just give me your hands first."

    "If I give you my hands¡­..Do you promise to never let go?"

    Ying Sheng asked searching Liam''s eyes for anything, something that can help her because she was so sick of being lonely.

    "Yes¡­.never let go of you. I promise.". Liam said as his lips curved into a soft smile.

    Ying Sheng''s mirrored his smile and gave him his hands.

    Liam let go of the breath he didn''t know he was holding as he pulled her into his arms.

    Feeling her body in his arms and the sobs escaping from her lips made him aware all of this is real.

    If he was a minutete¡­...

    Author''s Note:

    Aaohkie I know it''s really ufortable to read these since we all are going through stuffs and this kinda makes it hard for us.

    For making you ufortable, I''m sorry.

    hehehe honestly I feel very ufortable too.

    Hmmmm.....so I don''t want to give spoilers but the next 20 chappy is a mess lol full of heartbreaks so good luck to all of us.

    I know you have doubts and all but that''s the beauty no? To ovee your fears and find happiness with the right people by your side.

    After this arc we get lots of fluffy,smut, and happy stuffs. So please sit tight and enjoy the ride.

 Chapter 181 Opening up

    <h4>Chapter 181 Opening up</h4>

    "How are you feeling?" Liam asked softly as he gave Ying Sheng a painkiller.

    Ying Sheng looked up and shot him a grateful look.

    "Hmm...okay." Ying Sheng sniffled as she mumbled.

    "O-okay." Liam said as he rubbed the back of his neck. He didn''t want to ask her questions since she just broke down. He was afraid he would trigger anything.

    But he really wanted to know. Liam knew her parents had something to do with this.

    What did they say to break her down like this?

    "Do you want to take a shower and sleep?"

    Liam asked as the silence between them was torturing.

    Ying Sheng shook her head.

    "I-I... don''t you want to know why¡­.I tried killing myself?"

    Liam froze for a second before he nodded his head.

    "I do want to know but I''m afraid... you would feel ufortable talking about it."

    Ying Sheng shook head as she yed with her fingers. Her shoulders slumped in defeat as she tried to fight the tears that were threatening toe.

    "When I got to the restaurant my mother was there too. We had an argument and I asked her why?"

    Ying Sheng paused as she took a deep breath.

    "I wanted to know why she hated me. Why she was never around and couldn''t look me in the eyes."

    Ying Sheng mumbled. Liam stared at her as he listened quietly to her. He knew every word she spoke was hard for her.

    "I don''t know why I''m telling you this Liam. I''m not someone to open up to someone. I''m afraid people wouldugh at me when they see my vulnerability. I don''t want to be called weak."

    Ying Sheng''s lips stretched into a sad smile as she said.

    "Maybe it''s because you''re the only friend I have. So I can trust you."

    Liam shed her a smile as he patted her hair.

    "When I was young my parents were never around. I remember my dad used to take me out for ice cream and to the park but one day it all stopped. My mother didn''t even want to see me. Anything she did, she would yell at me and tell me to go away.

    I always wondered why my mom hates me. I thought maybe she was going through adult stuff once she sorted it out. She would like me. They say, when you criticize your children they don''t stop loving you, they stop loving themselves.

    I will always go to bed hating myself because I felt it''s my fault my mother wasn''t happy. Even though I was a kid I knew back then "

    Ying Sheng said as her eyes once again began to well in tears.

    "The people in the high society made it worse. They just wanted to be my friend because my parents were rich.

    No one tried to know the real me so I pushed them away. I began to keep to myself and avoided them. I bullied some too so that they would hate me and note close to me.

    I started getting into troubles, fighting with other kids in school because I knew the school would call my parents but funny they never came.

    It was my nanny who always came anytime the school called home. My parents felt I was destroying their reputation in City S so they sent me away. I was only eleven at that time.

    They sent a kid alone to a foreign country. I had no one at that boarding school. I thought if I did well academically my parents would be proud and they would finally notice me.

    So I studied hard day and night, I remembered one day before our exams I copsed due to how I was stressing my body."

    Ying Sheng chuckled dryly. "The school called my mother that I had copsed and I needed someone since they were worried about my mental health. Both no one came. I can still see the pitiful looks they were giving me.

    One day when I went to the school rooftop I saw a girl smoking. I was curious so I asked her why she was smoking?"

    Liam couldn''t help but swallow. He never knew she had suffered so much.

    "Sheughed and said it was a way of escaping from reality. The cigarette and beer healed her and survived every passing day. Then she removed the bandage wrapped around her wrist."

    Ying Sheng''s eyes darkened as she got lost in her story.

    "To say I was shocked was understatement. Why would someone hurt herself? She said the feeling of the blood draining out of her makes her feel alive. It reced the emptiness inside her. I thought she was crazy so I left her alone.

    That was my biggest mistake. I realized she needed someone to just listen to her but I called her crazy and ran away. Ten minutester¡­...news of someone jumping from the rooftop spread through the school."

    Ying Sheng stopped talking and Liam froze.

    "I...killed her. If- I had just listened to her. If I had not call her crazy maybe she wouldn''t have¡ª"

    "For days I tried calling my parents. I just wanted someone to tell me it wasn''t my fault. That my harsh words didn''t kill her. That there was nothing I could have done. No, no one was around. The guilt crawled inside my head slowly breaking me.

    Years went by and I didn''t tell anyone. I became the same person I called crazy. I started drinking, smoking and cutting myself. I realized she wasn''t crazy¡­...no. She was just a sad broken girl who needed love. Wanted someone to understand her.

    I was suffocating alone in that foreign country so I came back home. My need for parental love made mee back.

    But nothing changed apart from me. I changed. I dyed my hair red, went for a tattoo and started rebelling.

    I didn''t realize I was losing myself in the process. I was far gone."

 Chapter 182 A childâ€™s pain

    <h4>Chapter 182 A child''s pain</h4>

    "Today, I finally found out why my mother hates me. Honestly I don''t know if I should hate her for ming me for something I have no control over or I should understand her pain. Her pain of giving birth to me."

    Liam frowned in confusion. "What are you talking about?" He asked with concern evident in his voice.

    "I broke down today because I got into an argument with my mother. I asked her why she hates me. And she did¡­." Ying Sheng trailed off.

    She swallowed the bile that was forming at the back of her throat.

    "I''m a product of rape¡­."

    Ying Sheng paused and Liam felt the air suck out of his throat. It was like someone was twisting his intestines interrupting blood cirction in his body. His head felt light as he gasped in his shock.

    Product of rape.

    Meaning¡­..her father is a rapist. Wait so Mr. Ying isn''t her father?

    Liam had lots of questions but he knew he had to be patient and wait for her to tell him the whole story.

    "My dad and mom were once best friends but my dad raped her one night. And I was the product of the rape. A stain in her perfect life. How can a stain like me ask to be loved. Giving birth to me was already a punishment for her. So how can I¡ª"

    Liam pulled her into his arms as she began to break down into sobs. She grabbed his shirt tightly as let out all her grievances.

    "It''s okay. It''s not your fault. Don''t me yourself."

    Liam said softly into her hair, as he coaxed her. He wished he had a magic power to stop her tears. She didn''t deserve it, no one deserves to be med for something they had no control over.

    He thought she was just a bad girl with family drama but this¡­..this is awful. How can someone go through all of this? Liam saw Ying Sheng Ina new different light. He no longer saw the strong infamous Miss Ying who didn''t care about others''s opinions. No, he saw a child who just wanted to be loved but from a young age she was forced to hate herself. me herself for something she has no control over.

    "You''re strong Ying Sheng." Liam said as he hugged her tighter as if he wanted to engulf her body into his.

    How can someone endure so much from such a young age. Since she trusted him with such a big secret, Liam made a decision to never let go of her.

    He would make sure that she is always happy. No he wouldn''t allow her to go through this again.

    "You''re not alone anymore Ying Sheng. And yes, that girlmitting suicide wasn''t your fault. It was never your fault. You were young back then."

    Liam pulled away as he held her shoulders.

    "We will get through this together okay?"

    Ying Sheng gazed into Liam''s eyes and nodded.

    "Okay."

    The sound of the door bell ringing snapped them out of their moment. Liam frowned, "Go freshen up, I will check who is at the door."

    Ying Sheng nodded and Liam smiled softly at her as he walked towards the door.

    He looked through the peephole and frowned at the person standing there. He contemted for a moment before he walked back to the living room.

    Ying Sheng was still sitting there in a daze.

    "Hey¡­" Liam called out softly.

    Ying Sheng looked up at him, "Why...what''s wrong?"

    Ying Sheng asked when he saw theplicated look on his face.

    "Your father¡­.he is the one at the door. I can send him away if you want."

    Ying Sheng pursed her lips in a thin line.

    "You don''t have to talk to him, if you don''t want to."

    Ying Sheng shook her head, "It''s okay. No matter how many times I run he is still my father. I need to do this then start a new chapter in my life."

    Liam smiled and nodded in understanding.

    "Okay, I will let him in."

    Ying Sheng nodded absentmindedly. She couldn''t help but feel nervous.

    Liam looked at Mr. Ying, "How may I help you?"

    Liam asked coldly as he looked at the respected man in the business industry. He looked tired and like the whole world was on his shoulders.

    "Ying Sheng, is she here?" Mr. Ying asked with panic in his tone. Ying Sheng''s number couldn''t be reached and he was afraid she would do anything.

    He had asked his assistant to search the city for her and the search led him here. He was afraid something bad would happen to her. After all, she is his daughter.

    "Why should I let you see her? Haven''t you and your wife done enough damage for the day?"

    Mr. Ying stiffened, it''s like he has been pped across the face.

    "Is¡ªis she okay?" He asked with a shaking voice.

    Liam snorted, "Yes, if I was a few minuteste you would have lost your daughter. I told you I don''t care if you have a business to run you might lose your daughter."

    Mr. Ying nodded, "I''m d Ying Sheng has a friend like you. Please take good care of her."

    Liam arched his brows and nodded. "Please choose your words wisely when you see her. She is already hurting. If you make her shed a single tear I won''t hesitate to kick you out of my house."

    Liam might be an introvert but he could also be mean and decisive if he wants. That''s why he was able to open his ownpany at a young age.

    Mr. Ying heaved a sigh and nodded. Liam opened the door wide open and let him inside.

    Ying Sheng heard the sound of shoes scuffling against the floor and she stiffened.

    Even though she wanted to talk to her father, she was nervous. After knowing everything she doesn''t know how to behave or react to all of these secrets.

 Chapter 183 Freedom

    <h4>Chapter 183 Freedom</h4>

    "Ying Sheng¡­.." Mr. Ying called out softly as if he was afraid she would snapped at him.

    Ying Sheng looked up at her father and a great wave of emotions surged through her.

    "I will leave you too alone. If you need me, call me." Liam said when he saw the tension between the father and daughter.

    "No¡ªstay with me." Liam raised his brows and nodded in understanding. He strolled towards her and sat beside her.

    Liam took her hand and inteced his fingers with hers. Feeling how sweaty her palms was, he gave it a small squeeze.

    Ying Sheng turned to look at him and Liam gave her a reassuring smile.

    "Dad¡­"

    Mr. Ying stiffened when he heard her call him dad. Honestly he wasn''t expecting her to ever call him that.

    "How are you?" Mr. Ying asked her. He knew it was a stupid question to ask but he didn''t know what to say. He was searching for her anxiously and when he finally found her he didn''t know what to say.

    "Good." Ying Sheng breathed out with a ghost of sad smile on her lips.

    "I''m fine. Perfectly fine." Ying Sheng didn''t know if she was trying to convince herself or her father.

    A dead silence fell between them as they both fell into deep thoughts.

    "I''m sorry¡­.." Mr. Ying finally spoke breaking the silence.

    "I never meant to hurt you. This¡ªyou don''t deserve this. I wish things had happened differently. No matter what your mother said she didn''t mean it. She still loves you."

    Mr Ying muttered. Ying Sheng just yed with Liam''s fingers without saying anything.

    "You would always be my little princess. I hope you know that. I know we don''t deserve your forgiveness because we are the worst parents."

    Mr. Ying said as he chuckled dryly. "But one day, I hope you can forgive us."

    Ying Sheng looked at her father and her lips curved into a smile.

    "I forgive you. It wasn''t your fault." Ying Sheng said calmly surprising the people in the room.

    "You...do?" Mr. Ying asked, shock evident in his tone.

    "Yes. I don''t hate you or mother. I hope you know that."

    Liam frowned when he heard her. No¡ªsomething was definitely wrong. But what? Her voice was so calm that it was scary.

    Mr. Ying looked at Liam and they both saw the same questions in each other''s eyes.

    "Okay. I know this isn''t a good time to tell you this but your mother and I are getting a divorce. We were supposed to tell you this but¡­"

    "Alright. What about my brother? Are you going to tell him?"

    Mr. Ying felt a little ufortable with how calm she was. It''s like nothing happened a few hours ago.

    "Yes, but not now. We are going to keep it a secret for a while. When hees home for the holidays we will tell him."

    Mr. Ying said as he stared at his daughter. For this daughter he was extremely sorry. She never got a single bit of her mother''s love or his time.

    "Congrattions." Ying Sheng suddenly muttered.

    A confused frown marred on Mr. Ying''s face.

    "For what?" He inquired since he didn''t know why Ying Sheng was congratting him.

    "The baby. You''re going to have aplete family now." Ying Sheng said with a soft smile on her lips.

    Mr. Ying mouth gaped slightly. How...how did she know. So she knew all this while?

    "How¡ªwhat¡­"

    "It''s okay. I''m happy for you truly. I hope you have time for this child, this time around."

    Liam couldn''t help but knitted his brows. He could feel it, that something seriously was wrong but he couldn''t pinpoint what.

    "I want you to do me a favor dad." Before Mr. Ying could recover from his shock, Ying Sheng finally spoke.

    "What?" Mr. Ying asked. He had a feeling he wasn''t going to like this favor.

    "I want you to leave me alone. I want to figure out myself. I''m not asking you to leave me alone forever no. I just need space. Don''t monitor me just give me freedom."

    Mr. Ying pursed his lips as he nodded slowly.

    "Okay." His voice cracked as he ran his hands through his hair.

    "If that''s what you want, then alright. But if you need anything just tell me."

    Ying Sheng nodded.

    Silence fell between them again.

    "Then...I will leave now. Take care of yourself Ying Sheng."

    Ying Sheng smiled at her father.

    "You too dad."

    Mr. Ying nodded at Liam and stood up.

    "Bye."

    "Bye." The moment Mr. Ying reached the door, Ying Sheng called him.

    "Dad!" Mr. Ying stopped in his tracks and turned to look at her.

    Ying Sheng was standing there behind him. He watched in daze as she run towards him and hugged him.

    She hugged him so tightly as if she was saying goodbye.

    Mr. Ying hugged her back and blinked away the tears that was threatening toe.

    After they pulled away, Ying Sheng tip toes and whispered something in his ears.

    Mr. Ying widened his eyes and his face paled.

    Before he could snapped out of his stupor, Ying Sheng had nted a kiss on his cheeks and was walking away.

    W-what did she mean by those words? Mr. Ying wanted to go back and ask her but his phone rang.

    "Sir, Miss Mo is currently in the hospital. She wasining of stomach ache earlier, so I brought her to the hospital. I was afraid something must be wrong with the baby."

    The caretaker said the moment the call was connected.

    "Okay, which hospital are you? Is the baby okay?...."

    Mr. Ying said with panic as hepletely forgotten about what Ying Sheng had said. He rushed to his car and drove away.

    "Are you okay?" Liam asked Ying Sheng.

    Ying Sheng nodded, "Thank you, Liam. "

    Liam nodded and softly caressed her cheeks.

    Liam nodded. He wanted to press a kiss on her forehead but he knew better.

    "Go take a shower and rest."

    Ying Sheng nodded and walked towards her room. Her eyes flickering with an unknown emotion.

 Chapter 184 Friends with benefits

    <h4>Chapter 184 Friends with benefits</h4>

    The weekend passed by in a blur. Liam spent it with Ying Sheng. Because he was afraid she would do anything stupid, he kept an eye on her.

    During the weekend she was too calm. It''s like she didn''t cry or fight with her parents. They spent the day watching movies and ying games.

    Their rtionship got closer during this time.

    Liam rubbed his eyes as he got done from his bed. Today was Monday and he had to go to work. He really didn''t want to leave Ying Sheng alone but he had to submit a report. The moment he finishes he woulde home to her.

    Liam walked to the bathroom where he brushed his teeth and took a shower. Once he finished he put on a casual pants and T- shirt.

    Liam came out of his room and walked towards Ying Sheng''s room. Everyday when he wakes up he checks up on her. This has been a normal morning routine for him now.

    Liam knocked on the door but no one answered. He arched his brows before he opened the door.

    Liam was expecting to see her asleep or something but the he was greeted with a nearly made bed.

    He frowned and called her but no one answered.

    Liam entered the room and begin to panic when Ying Sheng didn''t respond. He walked towards the bathroom but the door was opened ajar.

    Letting go of the breath he didn''t know he was holding, Liam made his way down the hallway.

    Suddenly, the smell of pancakes assaulted his nostrils making his stomach growl.

    Liam smiled and made his way to the kitchen. Liam saw Ying Sheng humming to a song ying on the bluetooth headset he got her.

    Liam lips curved into a mischievous smile as he decided to sneak up on her. Ying Sheng was too focused on her music to notice Liam in the kitchen.

    She shook her body to the rhythm of the beat as she mixed the flour with the egg.

    Liam walked slowly towards her he ced his hand onto her waist and began tickling her.

    "Whaaaaa!"

    Ying Sheng screamed by the sensation since she was caught off guard. She spun around on her heels and the flour she was holding spilled on Liam''s face.

    "Ying Sheng!" Liam said as he touched his face which he was sure was probably white.

    Seeing his face full of flour, Ying Sheng bursted into fits ofughter. Tears ofughter spilled from her eyes as she leaned over the counter holding her stomach.

    Before Ying Sheng couldprehend what was going on, Liam grabbed the flour and spilled it on her face too.

    "Liam... Liam you¡­.I will kill you!"

    Liam broke into pearls ofughter as he ran away with Ying Sheng chasing behind him.

    Once closer to him, Ying Sheng jumped on him and they both fell down on the floor with Ying Sheng hovering over Liam.

    They both stared at each other and Liam blushed.

    Ying Sheng chuckled, "You got something here."

    Liam blinked, "Huh?" He asked in a daze.

    Ying Sheng reached towards his cheeks which was tainted red.

    Liam stilled the moment her hands caressed his cheeks. Liam''s heart started pounding in his chest.

    Ying Sheng slowly stroked his cheeks as her eyes shed a sad light.

    "Thank you, Liam." Ying Sheng mumbled.

    Liam just stared at her in utter silence before he did something that shocked both of them. He grabbed the back of her head and smashed his lips into hers.

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes in surprise. Before she started kissing him back. Butterflies fluttered in Liam''s stomach as her soft lips moved against his.

    Ying Sheng deepened the kiss as a soft moan escaped from her lips. That sound sent a rush of adrenaline in Liam''s body..

    The sound of the fire rm snapped both of them into reality. Ying Sheng pulled away and stood up.

    Liam blushed when he realized what he had done.

    He kissed her. Why¡ªwill she hate him?

    Before he could say a word, Ying Sheng rushed to the kitchen. She turned off the burner and grabbed a cloth to handle the hot pan.

    Liam stood up and went to turned off the rm. When he went back to kitchen, Ying Sheng as leaning against the counter with her head hung low.

    Liam frowned and he rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly.

    "Ying¡­.Sheng. Are you okay? I''m sorry¡­..I didn''t mean¡­.."

    Ying Sheng looked up and smiled at Liam.

    "It''s okay. We are both adults and it was just a kiss. No biggie."

    Liam felt like his heart was trapped in a cactus nt. He felt so painful.

    "Yes¡­.just a kiss." He forced a smile as he said.

    "Yes, it''s not like it''s our first time kissing Cutie. If you didn''t have someone you like I will have suggested friends with benefits. But¡­."

    Ying Sheng winked at Liam making the tips of his ears red.

    Suddenly Liam frowned at her words. He really hates this misunderstanding with Ying Sheng.

    If he knew she was going to misunderstanding he wouldn''t have said that. But he was not in a hurry. She was going through a lot already and he didn''t want to risk this friendship with her.

    When the time is right, he would tell her. He just needs the perfect time.

    "That¡­.I burnt the pancakes." Ying Sheng pouted.

    Liam chuckled and shook his head.

    "It''s okay. We can still cook another one. I will help you."

    Ying Sheng beamed and nodded.

    "Alright."

    With the help of Liam, Ying Sheng prepared breakfast for them.

    "That before I forget, the school requested for your transcripts. So...you have to go for them."

    Ying Sheng frowned but nodded.

    "Alright."

    Liam looked at her across the dining table and nodded.

    "If you want, you can wait for me toe back from work. I need to submit a report once I finish I wille home."

    Ying Sheng shook her head, "No I will be fine. Don''t worry."

 Chapter 185 Finally free(R-18+)

    <h4>Chapter 185 Finally free(R-18+)</h4>

    DISCLAIMER: Chapter contains suicide thoughts and self-harm PLEASE SKIP FOR ME IF YOU''RE UNCOMFORTABLE OR IT WILL TRIGGER YOU.

    **Sorry guys but trust me something good wille out of this.**

    After the breakfast, Liam went to work leaving Ying Sheng all alone in the big house. Ying Sheng sighed as she flipped through the TV channels. She couldn''t find any interesting show to pass the time since it was only ten am in the morning.

    Ying Sheng turned off the television and picked the book Liam had left on the centre tablest night. Without looking at the title,Ying Sheng started reading. She couldn''t concentrate on the book.

    Her thoughts were going haywire and the cold silence didn''t help her.

    Ying Sheng wanted to stop thinking. Liam had kept her distracted these past few days and now that he wasn''t here, she was a nervous wreck wanting to disappear from this cold and disgusting world.

    Ying Sheng stood up and decided to go for a walk. Maybe feeling the sun on her skin would help her.

    Walking down the streets, she found herself at the park. Ying Sheng''s eyes roamed around the park. Since it was pretty early and a Monday there were a few people around.

    Ying Sheng found herself staring at a family of three who were ying.

    The little girl who was around two years chased after her father with a blissful smile on her face. She was so innocent and clueless about this cruel world.

    The family of three looked so happy; something she would never have. Loneliness surged through her as she continued to stare at them.

    The father grabbed the girl and nted kisses on her face making her squeal in happiness.

    Ying Sheng quickly looked away as the pain became unbearable. Taking a deep breath she started walking away.

    Ying Sheng had no idea how long she walked. She found herself back at Liam''s ce.

    Sheid on her back on her bed while staring at the ceiling. She tried to convince herself she was okay but seeing those happy family broke her.

    The harsh reality she has been trying to hide from caught up to her. Her fight with her mother, telling Liam her deepest secrets, letting go of her father and then Liam''s rejection this morning.

    Her mind just snapped and everything came crushing down. Thest bit of sanity held together by Liam fell apart without warning.

    "Stop it! Please just stop!" Ying Sheng cried out as she covered her face with her hands.

    Abruptly she stood up and opened her drawer. Picking up the scissors she walked towards the bathroom. Ying Sheng stood in front of the mirror and stared at her reflection.

    Her lifeless eyes stared back at her.

    She just wants to be okay? Is it too much to ask? Then as if the poison inside her mind had been activated they started spreading.

    ''Why are you hesitating?

    Can''t you see nobody wants you?

    Nobody loves you.

    Nobody has time for you

    Why are you still alive being a burden for others?

    Don''t you know you''re hurting people with your existence?

    No wonder they hate you!

    Because you''re a stain. Nobody loves a stain. Did you really think you deserved to be loved?

    You''re not worthy. Noone would love you so stop fighting!

    Just...Give up

    Ying Sheng chuckled hysterically as tears roamed down her cheeks. She has finally lost the battle.

    She started cutting her long hair. They say people cut their hair when they want to start a new life but she¡­.was cutting because she failed. She failed herself, Lei Zhao and Liam.

    She was a coward. She didn''t want to keep fighting so she is escaping.

    The red hairs fell on the floor. Ying Sheng forced herself to smile but even her mouth was tired of forcing to smile everyday. At that moment she knew what to do, how to end her misery and make everyone happy.

    She tried to search for a reason to live but found none. Sheughed and then broke down into sobs. The harsh moment when you realize there is nothing worth living for.

    She picked the de she had hidden from Liam and then her lips finally stretched into a smile. She was finally going to be free.

    Ying Sheng walked back to her room and picked her phone.

    She dialed Liam''s number. On a second ring the call was finally connected.

    "Ying Sheng, Hy is everything okay?" Liam soft voice asked.

    Ying Sheng sniffled, and swallowed the lump in her throat.

    Liam frowned when he didn''t hear say anything.

    "Hy¡­. don''t scare me. Talk to me. Say something!"

    Liam said anxiously. He didn''t care he was in the middle of an important meeting.

    "Sorry Liam¡­.I tried really did, but it''s so difficult. You won''t understand¡ªbe happy and don''t me yourself."

    Ying Sheng said as she wiped the tears under her eyes.

    "Ying Sheng listen to me don''t do anything stupid. We will figure this out. I promise. Wait for m¡ª"

    "Goodbye Liam." Then she hang up the call.

    "Ying Sheng! Ying Sheng!" Liam shouted on the phone as his face paled.

    "Hey, are you okay?" Lucas put a hand on Liam''s shoulder snapping him out of his thoughts.

    "No...I need to go. Ying Sheng...she"

    Looking at the state of his brother, Lucas frowned.

    "Okay, I will drive you. Let''s go."

    Liam nodded and rushed out of the meeting room.

    The people there couldn''t help but gossip. They have never seen their calm boss like this.

    One cut and Ying Sheng''s breath hitched. With shaky hands she shed the de across her wrist again and again. Their words finally hit as broken sobs left Ying Sheng''s mouth. The voices got louder and louder untill she found herself getting weaker and weaker then she dropped on the floor.

    Her vision blurred and her lips finally curved into a satisfied smile.

    They say your life shes across your eyes when you''re taking yourst breath. Finally her good memories with her dad reced the voices inside her head.

    Then darkness consumed her vision.

    Free, she was finally free

 Chapter 186 Guilt

    <h4>Chapter 186 Guilt</h4>

    Author''s Note: Please skip chapter if suicide makes your ufortable. Sorry.

    With the help of Lucas''s s superb driving skills they reached Liam''s apartment ten minutes earlier. The moment Lucas stopped the car, Liam ran towards the apartment and entered a series of code.

    "Ying Sheng!" He called out but no one answered.

    When Liam heard no answer, he grew more worried.

    "Ying Sheng!" She wasn''t responding. There was no way Ying Sheng would not respond to him unless he was toote¡­

    The dead silence made him more anxious. There was something wrong, something was really wrong.

    Liam rushed to her bedroom and saw the door was opened ajar. With his heart in his throat he stepped inside the room only to stop dead in his tracks.

    The sight of blood pooling on the floor with Ying Sheng''s lifeless body lying in it made his blood turn cold.

    His face turned ashen as he grew light headed. Liam started panicking. His heart beat increased and breathing started getting difficult for him.

    "Liam!" Lucas''s anxious voice snapped him out of his trance as he looked at his brother.

    Lucas bent down and checked Ying Sheng''s pulse and found it almost non-existent.

    "Is she¡­.." Liam trembled as he asked Lucas.

    "No but she is in a critical condition. Go find me a first aid box!"

    Liam just couldn''t move. It''s like there was a ma ce underneath his feet.

    "Liam! Focus."

    Liam fixed gaze on Ying Sheng''s body travel to his brother and he swallowed.

    "Hurry up! Do you want to lose her?" Liam rushed out and went to search for the first aid box. He searched frantically until he saw it in one of the cupboards.

    He rushed and brought it to Lucas. Lucas took it and Liam went to the bathroom and grabbed a few towels and soaked it under water.

    He gently wiped the blood off the slit wrist but the blood was too much.

    Since Lucas had actually done medicine since he was bored and wanted interesting to do, he was very skill with this.

    He checked Ying Sheng''s pulse and found it weakening even more.

    His usually carefree aura was reced with a serious one as he scrunched his face.

    He knew whatever happens he can''t let Ying Sheng die. It will tear his brother apart.

    With a rampant concentration, he apply pressure to the wound and he tore the bandage and skillfully wrapped it around Ying Sheng''s wrists. Lucas breathed a sigh of relief when the bleeding finally stopped.

    Liam looked at Ying Sheng''s lifeless figure and he realized how pale she was. Their was no mischievous glint in her eyes since they were closed. How can she finally let go of life?!

    Why didn''t he notice that she was hurting and everything was just a camouge.

    Liam could see the life slowly draining out of her. He had killed her. If only he didn''t go to work today. He knew something was seriously wrong but seeing her so happy and acting okay made him believe that she was really okay.

    She had him fool. She had fooled him with her acting skills.

    "Liam!" Lucas''s voice pulled Liam out of his thoughts.

    Liam stared at his bloody hands in a daze. Her blood was on his hands. He had promised her to never let go but where was he when she needed him the most!

    "Hey...You need to be strong for her. Pull yourself together. We need to take her to the hospital before we finally lose her."

    Lucas said as he stood up. Liam nodded an picked Ying Sheng up.

    The car ride was the most tormenting thing in Liam''s life even though it was quick.

    Lucasid her on a gurney and exined what happened to the doctor in some weird medical terms.

    A couple of nurses pushed Ying Sheng to the emergency room as Liam and Lucas were asked to stay outside.

    Lucas stared at his brother and his heart broke at his pained eyes.

    "Liam...it''s not your fault. Don''t me yourself"

    Liam felt the walls of the emergency room closing on him. He grunted as a headache began to assault him.

    ''You¡­.. weren''t there for her

    How could you? You broke your promise

    It''s your fault¡­..your fault she is battling for her life.

    Why give her false hopes and when you knew reality is harsh.''

    "Shut up!" Liam screamed as he battled with his mind''s allegations.

    People gave him weird looks but he was drowning in his guilt to even notice them.

    He shut his eyes and rubbed his temples.

    "Liam!" He heard his name being called snapping him from his thoughts.

    He opened his eyes and met Lucas''s worried eyes.

    "I killed her¡­..I was supposed to be around¡­... I¡ªI Oh my. She really¡­."

    "Hey, shsshs¡­..it''s okay. It''s not your fault. You did your best. The decision was hers to make. Don''t beat yourself I''m sure she wouldn''t want you to me yourself."

    Tears flowed down Liam''s cheeks. His guilt was consuming him.

    "Yes...but¡­.you don''t understand!''

    Liam snapped as he ran his fingers through his hair.

    Lucas heaved a sigh

    "Liam. Don''t me yourself."

    Liam nodded absentmindedly and watched the emergency room door.

    For what seems like an forever the door opened and the doctor came out.

    "How is she?" Such a simple words, Liam wanted to ask but he was afraid so Lucas finally spoke.

    The doctor heaved a sigh and shook his head.

    Liam''s heart sank when he saw the doctor shook his head.

    Did she¡­.

    God he didn''t want to but he couldn''t¡­.

    Please let her be okay.

    A/N :

    Sorry for thete chapter guys hehehe. I was dozing so if you see any mistake please don''t be shy help me point it out. Also I will travel tomorrow so I''m not sure about an update yet hehe let see what happens. In case I post a dummy I''m sorry. I know it''s annoying but please just bear with me.

    Lots of love!

 Chapter 187 Help her

    <h4>Chapter 187 Help her</h4>

    "How is she?" Lucas asked the doctor. The doctor shook his head and heaved a sigh.

    Liam swallowed nervously as he braced himself for bad news.

    "If you had been a few minuteste, we would have lost her." The doctor replied.

    "When will she wake up?" Lucas asked as he nced at his brother.

    "Honestly I don''t know. It depends on the patient. For her to take her own life I''m sure she doesn''t want to wake up. For this, I advise the patient''s friends to talk to her while she is in aa. Who knows she might wake up when she hears how much you love her."

    The doctor patted Lucas''s shoulder and walked away.

    Liam let go of the air he was holding and racked his fingers through his hair.

    ''She was alive¡­.'' He began to walk towards the direction of Ying Sheng''s room but Lucas''s firm grip on his shoulder stopped him.

    "We need to call her family. We can''t hide this from them." Lucas said.

    Liam scrunched his face. He knew her rtionship with her parents were not good so he decided to call Lei Zhao. He was the only one he can trust with Ying Sheng now.

    "Can you find out about Mr. Lei Zhao''s number?"

    Lucas nodded without any questions and took his phone. He dialed a number and on the second ring, the call was picked up.

    "Sir¡­."

    "Find me Mr. Lei Zhao''s number. Hurry."

    Lucas said as he hung up the phone. Three minutester, his phone vibrated indicating he had gotten a message.

    "I have gotten the number."

    Liam nodded and took Lucas''s phone. He bit his lips in anxiousness as he dialed Lei Zhao''s number.

    He was afraid¡­..Will Lei Zhao be disappointed in him? Will he me him?

    ********************************************

    "Lei Zhao¡­.stop." Yan Mei moaned as Lei Zhao sucked on her neck. His tongue licked her skin as he bit on it sending shivers along her spine.

    "Just a quickie." Lei Zhao rasped against her skin.

    "Lei Zhao...I-I" Lei Zhao cut her off as he smashed his lips against hers. Yan Mei rasped as she kissed him back.

    His hands unbuttoned her shirt as he trailed the kisses down her jawline to her breast.

    Yan Mei threw her head back as she closed her eyes. She shouldn''t have allowed him to walk her to the office. Now he was seducing her.

    Lei Zhao removed her breast from her bra and licked her nipples. Yan Mei bit her lips to stop the sounds from escaping her lips.

    Lei Zhao looked up at him and smirked at how red her face was. He loved seeing his wife like this.

    The moment Lei Zhao got on his knees to remove her pants, his phone rang. Lei Zhao frowned and decided to ignore the call but the person was persistent.

    Lei Zhao groaned and looked at Yan Mei who avoided his gaze in embarrassment.

    "Wifey¡­.let me pick the call it might be an emergency."

    Yan Mei nodded. "It''s okay, I need to work too."

    Lei Zhao narrowed his eyes. "I will make it up to you tonight." Lei Zhao pressed a kiss on her forehead as he picked up the call.

    "Hello?" Lei Zhao said once the call was connected.

    "Mr. Lei, this is Liam. Ying Sheng''s friend."

    Lei Zhao squinted his eyes. From Liam''s tone he could sense something was wrong.

    "Hey, Liam. How are you?" Lei Zhao asked.

    "I''m fine,...."

    Lei Zhao nced at Yan Mei who was looking at him and shed her a smile.

    "Is something wrong?" Lei Zhao inquired.

    "Ying Sheng¡­.." Liam trailed off.

    Lei Zhao frowned and a bad premonition gnawed at his insides.

    "What happened to her?" Lei Zhao asked with a shaky voice.

    Liam swallowed the lump in his throat.

    "Please can youe to Paradise Hospital? I will tell you once youe."

    Lei Zhao heart skipped in his chest and his face paled.

    "Okay, I''ming."

    Lei Zhao hung up the call and stared at the phone in a daze.

    He really hopes that she hasn''t done anything stupid again¡­

    "Hey, it''s everything okay?" Yan Mei''s worried tone snapped him out of his thoughts.

    "I-I don''t know. Liam¡ªYing Sheng''s friend¡­"

    "Yes I remember him. What did he say? Did something happen to Ying Sheng?"

    Yan Mei asked with concernced in her tone.

    Lei Zhao looked up at her, "I don''t know. He asked me toe to Paradise Hospital."

    Yan Mei stood up, "Let''s go. I will drive."

    Lei Zhao nodded absentmindedly as he followed her out of the office.

    "I''m sure it might just be a cold. Don''t worry."

    Lei Zhao looked at Yan Mei and nodded.

    He looked out the window and looked at the scenery along the way.

    "I''m afraid, Yan Mei¡­. afraid she has done it again." Lei Zhao finally spoke after a few minutes of silence.

    Yan Mei frowned in confusion. What was he talking about?

    "What are you afraid of, Lei Zhao?" Yan Mei asked.

    "Ying Sheng¡­..she¡­.is not well."

    "She isn''t? But she looked perfectly healthy to me thest time we saw her." Yan Mei said as she knitted her brows.

    "No¡­..she is physically healthy but mentally¡­."

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh.

    Yan Mei nced at Lei Zhao. "What are you trying to say?"

    "She is suicidal. She has tried killing herself so many times in the past."

    Yan Mei froze and her hands holding the wheels tightened.

    She never thought such a strong girl like Ying Sheng would be suicidal. No wonder anytime she looked at Ying Sheng she saw herself in her.

    They both had something inmon. They both were broken. Yan Mei made up her mind to help Ying Sheng. She wouldn''t let Ying Sheng lose herself like she did.

    A/N: Sorry for thete update guys. I was tired and had a bad headache. I will update the next chapter in a few hours. Please wait patiently. I''m participating in win win that''s why I have to upload 1.5k everyday. Sorry for the inconveniences!

 Chapter 188 Disappointment

    <h4>Chapter 188 Disappointment</h4>

    When they reached the hospital, they saw Liam waiting for them at the entrance. His shirt was stained with something red¡ªblood.

    Lei Zhao stopped in his tracks and his face paled. His fears really came true.

    Yan Mei took his hands and inteced their fingers together. She squeezed it tightly and gave him a reassuring smile.

    They walked towards Liam who had his head lowered.

    "Liam¡­." Yan Mei called him softly.

    Liam looked up at them.

    "Mr. Lei, Miss¡­"

    Because Liam didn''t know the rtionship between Yan Mei and Lei Zhao he didn''t know how to address Yan Mei.

    "How is Ying Sheng?" Yan Mei asked withoutmenting on the title.

    Liam avoided Lei Zhao''s gaze as guilt swarmed through him.

    "I''m sorry¡­..I-I"

    "What do you mean by sorry?!" Lei Zhao snapped at him.

    "I went to work and then I got a call¡­.she¡­.I told her...beg her...she¡­.wanted to stop hurting.."

    Liam stammered as he muttered incoherent words.

    Lucas who just arrived at the entrance saw Liam talking to someone. He assumed it was Ying Sheng''s family. He strolled towards them and saw his brother struggling to exin what happened.

    "We were in the middle of a meeting when Liam got a call from Miss Ying. I don''t know what she said but my brother was panicking so I decided to drive him to the house. When we got there¡­..Miss Ying, she was lying in a pool of her own blood. She had cut her wrist."

    Lucas exined.

    Lei Zhao looked at the man who looked exactly like Liam and felt the air leave his lungs.

    "Is she¡­.?" Lei Zhao couldn''t evenplete his question because of his fears.

    "No, fortunately we arrived on time. But she is in aa."

    Lei Zhao nodded and patted Liam''s shoulder. He could see the young man was pretty shaken up. To witness a suicide scene was pretty traumatizing.

    "Thank you, Liam." Liam widened his eyes and looked up at Lei Zhao. He thought Lei Zhao would me him for this..

    "Don''t me yourself, Liam. I''m sure you did your best."

    Yan Mei added as she shed him a smile.

    "Thank you too." Yan Mei said to Lucas.

    Lucas nodded, "It''s okay after all she would be my sister-in¡­."

    Lucas stopped himself and rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly.

    Yan Mei narrowed her eyes but said nothing.

    "I want to see her." Lei Zhao said. He wanted to confirm that she was really okay. How can she do this? No something must have happened for her to finally snap.

    Liam led them to the VIP award where Ying Sheng was. Due to the blood loss, her skin was pale and her lips were blue.

    Lei Zhao walked towards her and grabbed her hand. He caressed the back of Ying Sheng''s hand and said nothing.

    Yan Mei stood beside him and ced a hand on his shoulder.

    Lei Zhao sat beside Ying Sheng without saying anything. Silentlyforting him.

    "Did something happen?" Lei Zhao turned and asked Liam who was standing at the door.

    "Hmm. It''splicated."

    Lei Zhao frowned and stood up.

    "Let''s talk outside." Lei Zhao said with a deadly expression.

    ******************************

    "So tell me what happened?"

    Liam took a deep breath before answering Lei Zhao.

    Liam started telling Lei Zhao about the night he met Ying Sheng at the club, meeting her parents and the reason for her suicide.

    "You''re telling me my uncle and Aunt are the reason why she is lying on the hospital bed?!"

    Lei Zhao asked with anger rising in his throat. How can parents be cruel to their own child like this?

    He has always respected his uncle but this¡­.even the lowest people wouldn''t do this.

    "Yes. Her parents did this." Liam clenched his fists as anger thrummed through him.

    "It seems her father is also having a baby with his mistress." Liam added.

    Lei Zhao pinched the bridge of his nose. To say he was disappointed was an understatement.

    "Mistress?" Lei Zhao mumbled.

    His uncle really dared to break their family rules. It was forbidden to have extramarital affairs in their family.

    People of the Ying family are not allowed to marry two or more women or have extramarital affairs. In order to prevent internal war among step siblings, the patrich made thisw.

    Lei Zhao scrunched his face and removed his phone from pocket. His mother needed to know what his little brother was doing to his own child.

    He dialed his mother''s number and waited patiently for her to pick up the call. His mother was mostly busy at theb so it was very difficult to get hold of her.

    On the fifth ring,the call was finally picked up.

    "Lei Zhao, is something wrong?" Lei Xiao Tong asked the moment she picked up the call. She knew Lei Zhao wouldn''t call her more than two times unless something happened.

    "Mom, how are you?" Lei Zhao asked his mother when he heard the tiredness in her voice.

    "Good, you?" Lei Xiao Tong asked her son.

    "Hmm, good. Are you busy now? Can we talk?"

    Lei Zhao rubbed his temples as he asked.

    "Not really. Is something wrong?"

    Lei Zhao sighed, "Yes. Can youe to Paradise Hospital? Ying Sheng is sick."

    Lei Zhao told half a lie and half a truth. He didn''t want to tell his mother what really happened over a phone. He was afraid she wouldn''t be able to handle the news.

    "Oh, is she okay? I''ming right away. Has she eaten or I should prepare something for her?"

    Lei Xiao Tong asked as she removed herb coat.

    "No mom. No need to cook for her. She has eaten." Lei Zhao said. Gosh, he hated lying to his mother but he had no choice.

    "Okay then I will be there in half an hour."

    "Drive safely." Lei Zhao hung up the call and turned to look at Liam.

    Fortunately, Ying Sheng had someone like Liam by her side. If not, he was really afraid of what would have happened.

 Chapter 189 Coward

    <h4>Chapter 189 Coward</h4>

    The moment the elevator door of the hospital opened Lei Xiao Tong got the shock of her life. Standing in front of the elevator was his younger brother with a another woman. He had his hands wrapped around the woman''s waist as he gazed longingly at her.

    He was whispering something to the woman so he didn''t see Lei Xiao Tong.

    "Ying Huai?" Lei Xiao Tong called out with uncertainty in her tone. She had drove speedily since she felt something was wrong the moment Lei Zhao called her.

    She knew Ying Sheng''s sickness might be serious or Lei Zhao wouldn''t disturb her on a Monday morning. But who would have thought she would bump into her younger brother here.

    Mr. Ying stiffened when he heard the familiar voice. He turned around and saw his elder sister. His face turned ashed and he immediately removed his hands from the woman''s waist.

    He had brought his mistress for a check up since she had beenining of a stomach ache. Who would have thought he would bump into his elder sister.

    "Sister Xiao." A woman''s mellow voice called out Lei Xiao Tong. Lei Xiao Tong looked at the woman and widened her eyes in shock.

    "Mo Hua?" Lei Xiao Tong looked at the woman with a big belly and she knew something was seriously wrong. Mo Hua was his brother''s girlfriend before he was forced to marry Su Cha. So they had met quite a few times.

    She stepped out of the elevator and faced his brother.

    "What is going on, Ying Huai?"

    Mr. Ying winced at his sister''s tone and didn''t say anything. He didn''t know what to say or where to even begin.

    It was a big crime for a Ying family member to have an extramarital affairs. Not mention he is the only man on his father''s side.

    Lei Xiao Tong sighed in clear frustration. She was beginning to lose her cool.

    "Let me rephrase that. Why are you at the same hospital that your sick daughter is with your pregnant ex girlfriend?!"

    Mr. Ying avoided his sister''s gaze.

    "Sister Xiao¡­."

    "Shut up!" Lei Xiao Tong snapped angrily at Mo Hua. People casted weird nces at them.

    Lei Xiao Tong took a deep breath. She knew this was a public ce and she couldn''t make a scene.

    "Follow me." Lei Xiao Tongmanded as she made her way to the rooftop. She dialed Lei Zhao''s number and asked him to meet her at the rooftop.

    Once they were at the rooftop where no one was, Lei Xiao Tong folded her hands across her chest.

    "You better start talking before I find out everything myself." Lei Xiao Tong said to his brother tly.

    Mr. Ying couldn''t help but be nervous. The more nonchnt his sister was, the more deadly she is.

    "I-I I''m getting a divorce with Su Cha." Mr. Ying replied wincing at his shaky voice.

    He was such a big man at thepany but in front of his sister he was still a little boy.

    "You''re getting a divorce because of that whore? What is going on in that stupid brain of yours, Ying Huai?"

    Lei Xiao Tong shook her head in disappointment. "Mom and Dad raised us better than this!"

    Mr. Ying racked his fingers through his head.

    "I know. It just¡­.things didn''t work out with Su Cha. You know the reason why we got married. She hates me!"

    Mr. Ying tired to reason his actions.

    "So? What woman would magically falls in love with her rapist? Did you even try to make this marriage work? Did you ever try to ask for her forgiveness? Did you try to make her see everything was a set up?"

    Lei Xiao Tong asked as she stared at his brother bewilderedly.

    "I thought once you had Ying Sheng, you would try to make this work for your daughter but you...had an affair?!"

    Lei Xiao Tong bellowed furiously as she widened her eyes in disbelief.

    "You had an affair because you weren''t a man enough to fix your family? Because you''re a coward?"

    Mr. Ying looked away from his sister''s burning gaze.

    "You know,. I never loved Su Cha. Mo Hua is the woman I love. Why should I stay with someone I don''t love?" Once again Mr. Ying tried to justify his actions.

    "Hmm. So you decided to break the family rules by having an extramarital affairs?"

    Mr. Ying swallowed and said nothing.

    "Anyway why is your daughter at the hospital. Don''t tell me is because of you?" Lei Xiao Tong continued to interrogate her brother.

    "She is¡ª"

    "Of course it''s because of him that Ying Sheng is at the hospital?!"

    Lei Zhao''s angry voice sounded behind them.

    Mr. Ying turned around and he stepped back in fright as the mad look in Lei Zhao''s eyes. Even though he was an adult he was afraid Lei Zhao would pounce at him anytime.

    "What are you talking about, Lei Zhao?" Lei Xiao Tong asked clearly irritated. It seems lots of things were going on behind her back.

    "Why don''t you ask Uncle? He truly deserves the father of the year award." Lei Zhao chuckled humorlessly.

    "Do you even know your daughter is admitted at the hospital?"

    Mr. Ying bowed his head in shame. He couldn''t bear to look at the disappointed look in Lei Zhao''s eyes. He once saw admiration in Lei Zhao''s eyes but now it was reced with contempt and disappointment.

    "Do you know she is at the hospital because she tried to take her own life?" Lei Zhao continued to ask.

    Mr. Ying looked up and he felt panic ran along his spine.

    "W-what?" Mr. Ying asked.

    "What the hell is going on?!" Lei Xiao Tong bellowed. She really hates being kept in the dark.

    "Well, your dear brother never got time for his own daughter because he was super busy running a billionaire dorpany¡ªor was he?"

    Lei Zhao said as a sardonic smile graced his lips.

    "His wife too never got time for her own daughter because ording to her, she is a stain in her perfect life. So a child was deprived of both of her parents love while growing up. Because two fucking adults were cowards who would rather me a child for something she had no control over than to try to solve their own fucking issues!

 Chapter 190 Guardian

    <h4>Chapter 190 Guardian</h4>

    Lei Xiao Tong opened her mouth in shock. Ying Sheng was going through all of this? But she looked so happy anytime she saw her. She knew there were asionally arguing with her mother over her choice of clothes but Lei Xiao Tong thought it was normal.

    After all, every child has quarrelled with the parent before. But this¡­..when did the brother who was afraid to even hurt a cockroach turned into such a disappointing man!

    "Imagine living with the thought of being unloved by your own parents for sixteen good years! Them not even having time for you. Your mother calling you a stain and finding out your father never got time for you because he was busy building a family with his mistress."

    Lei Zhao spat every word with venom in his voice. If not because his Uncle was older and it was seen as a bad curse to beat an adult he would have beaten the hell out of his uncle.

    For every single tear Ying Sheng shed. Every single blood that dropped on the floor he would have let his Uncle pay for it.

    "Ying Huai!" Lei Xiao Tong roared as anger coursed through her. Her eyes redden from rage.

    "Is this true? Your daughtermitted suicide because of you and that ugly woman, Su Cha? If you cannot raise a child simply give her out for adoption! Why ruin her life huh?"

    Mr. Ying knew he was in big trouble. He could literally feel the angry waves radiating from his sister and once his sister was angry;she was scary.

    She looked like she was about to massacre an entire army.

    "You piece of shit!You couldn''t be man enough to say no to dad so you med your daughter. You knew you would lose the Ying empire if you refuse to marry Su Cha so you didn''t even put a fight.

    You know you could have said no. Our parents never forced us to anything we didn''t want to! Just because Grandpa threatened you with the inheritance you went ahead and married Su Cha. Now you''re ying victim? What the hell?!

    The family would have epted Ying Sheng even if you didn''t marry Su Cha because we all knew it was a set up so don''t give me the crap you married Su Cha because of Ying Sheng."

    Mr. Ying knew his sister was angry and he had crossed the line in her book. Anytime his sister curses that means she was angry.

    "Some of us have lost our child but you¡­..you don''t even know how to treat yours right?"

    "Sorry¡­"

    "Sorry? I''m I the one you should be apologizing to? Unless you fix this stupid family drama you have created you''re no more the CEO of the Ying group. How can you run apany if you can''t even run your own family!

    Also, as amander you should set a good example for your soldiers to follow. But this¡­.you''re not fit to lead an army!"

    Mr. Ying opened his mouth in shock. How can she...

    "How can you do this! You know how much I have worked hard for thispany! You can''t do this. Also, stripping me off themander position would make me weak!"

    Lei Xiao Tong chuckled dryly at his brother.

    "I can and I have. As the eldest sibling and guardian of the Ying family I strip you of your position as themander of the Ying special forces."

    Mr. Ying face paled and as if a great force had left his body he fell on his knees. He clutched his stomach as he let out a wail of pain.

    Lei Zhao watched his Uncle wailed on the ground as if he was in an intense pain and arched his brows. He knew his mother''s family was special and had lots of secrets. This was the first he was witnessing something like this.

    He was sure they were forbidden to reveal their secrets unless necessary.

    "You should prepare to receive the family punishment for breaking the sacredw of the family. We will take your mistress away too. I think you know how this works.

    I hope you reflect once you''re away. Because you''re truly a shame to the Ying family!" Lei Xiao Tong said angrily and walked away leaving her brother on the cold hard floor.

    Even though she was angry, her heart couldn''t help but hurt. After all, she was the closest to her younger brother.

    She had spent time with him when their parents were away on a business trip or when it was raining; because he was afraid of thunder.

    When did her sweet brother turned out to be such a coward and a disappointing man?"

    *******************

    "How is she?" Ying Sheng asked as she stared at Ying Sheng. She couldn''t help but feel guilty. If only she had seen how much she was hurting; this wouldn''t have happened.

    No one knows why their grandfather wanted his brother to marry Su Cha but she knew why.

    It was because of Ying Sheng. Their grandfather always believed that she would bring good luck to their family.And having aplete family would help her grow more happy.

    He didn''t exin or said anything but the old man made Lei Xiao Tong promise him to take care of Ying Sheng on his dead bed.

    But she failed the old man. As a guardian, she had failed a member of their family.

    "Mom¡­.are you listening to me?" Lei Zhao''s worried voice snapped Lei Xiao Tong out of her stupor.

    She forced a smile and nodded.

    "Yes, what were you saying?"

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh and wrapped his hands around his mother''s shoulders.

    "Don''t me yourself mom, Ying Sheng is a great actress. She had all of us fooled with her strong bad girl facade."

    Lei Xiao Tong blew out air and smiled.

    "She is such a strong girl. To always act happy and strong even when she was slowly dying inside¡­. that''s shows how strong she is."

 Chapter 191 Scars

    <h4>Chapter 191 Scars</h4>

    Ying Sheng felt herself surrounded inplete darkness. Was she dead? But wasn''t death supposed to be numb? Why does it feel like someone was hitting her head with a hammer?

    Ying Sheng groaned and opened her eyes. She sighed in disappointment when she realized she was alive.

    She saw the white ceiling and the heart monitor when she nced at her right. The beeping sound made her everything feel real for her.

    She didn''t die.

    Someone had save her but who?

    Ying Sheng felt numb as she nced at her hands wrapped in bandages. She felt absolutely nothing. Like an empty shell, she felt no physical pain from the cut.

    Just her head throbbing. She felt a gaze on her. Looking at the entrance she saw someone starting at her with an unknown emotion in his eyes.

    Ying Sheng breath hitched and a lump formed in her throat.

    Lei Zhao.

    Was he disappointed in her? Will he think she is weak?

    He looked at her tly without emotion on his face. He said nothing just staring at her as if he was trying to see through her.

    After what seem like forever Lei Zhao finally spoke.

    "How are you?" He asked as he smiled softly at her.

    Ying Sheng avoided Lei Zhao''s gaze and ignored

    his question.

    "Who saved me?" Ying Sheng asked Lei Zhao.

    "Liam." Lei Zhao replied softly.

    "Oh¡­." Ying Sheng trailed off.

    Why did he save her?

    He should have let her die.

    Why...why¡­..she was so close to finally leave this cruel world.

    Why the fuck did he save her?!

    "Ying Sheng¡­.what are you thinking?"

    Lei Zhao asked with concernced in his tone.

    "Why, he didn''t let me die."

    Ying Sheng breathed out.

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh and strolled towards her.

    He grabbed her hand and caressed it softly.

    "Hey, don''t say that. Liam went through a lot to bring you here. You should have seen the poor boy. How shaken he was."

    Ying Sheng looked at Lei Zhao.

    "W-what? Is he okay?"

    Lei Zhao shook his head, "I don''t know¡­.he never let your side since youra. I just sent him away to go freshen up."

    Ying Sheng looked at the ceiling, "Do you think he would be disappointed with me? Would he think I''m weak?"

    Lei Zhao smiled and shook his head.

    "No, no one would think you''re weak. Especially Liam. I can see how much he believes in you. You''re lucky to have him as a friend."

    Ying Sheng nodded, "Yes, I am. He is truly a good friend."

    Lei Zhao finally conclude that Ying Sheng wasn''t aware of the young man''s feelings. It seems Liam was suffering from unrequited love.

    He hopes one day Ying Sheng would like the guy if anyone deserved his cousin it was Liam.

    But it was too early for that. First, they had to help Ying Sheng first.

    "How long was I out?" Ying Sheng asked.

    "Three days." Lei Zhao replied.

    At this moment, the door opened and Yan Mei walked in holding a basket of fruits.

    "Hey, how are you?"

    Yan Mei said as she shed Ying Sheng a smile.

    Ying Sheng avoided Yan Mei''s gaze as embarrassment coursed through her. She always looked up at Yan Mei but she felt like she had disappointed lots of people. Including the person she looks up to.

    "H-hy." She said timidly as she fidgeted on her bed.

    Yan Mei sat beside Ying Sheng on the bed.

    "What happened to calling me sister Mei? I thought you considered me as a friend."

    Yan Mei pouted as sheined.

    "Husband see¡­.she doesn''t like me anymore."

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes and shook her head.

    "No-no¡­...I like you sister Mei. I-I I''m just ashamed."

    Ying Sheng bit her lips as she lowered her head.

    "Why are you ashamed?" Yan Mei asked with a confused frown marred on her face.

    "Be-because¡­...I wasn''t strong enough. I have disappointed all of you. I''m sorry."

    Ying Sheng blinked the tears that was threatening toe out from her eyes.

    Yan Mei sighed and held Ying Sheng''s shoulder.

    "Don''t beat yourself up. Everyone has their own problems and go through stuffs. Do you know I have alsomitted suicide numerous times? If it wasn''t for your cousin I would have already taken my own life."

    Ying Sheng widened her eyes in shock. She didn''t believe this. Yan Mei looked so strong, confident and beautiful. Why would she take her own live?

    "But why¡­..you have everything."

    Yan Mei chuckled as if she had heard something funny.

    "Do I have everything?" Yan Mei shook her head and picked an apple from the basket.

    She picked the kneel she had brought and started peeling the apple.

    "Like I said, everyone has their own battles to face everyday. The fact that you see me acting strong and being domineering, doesn''t mean everything is well. I might be strong on the outside but inside I''m also fighting a tough war."

    Ying Sheng couldn''t believe it. She felt Yan Mei was saying this because she didn''t want her to feel bad.

    Yan Mei finished peeling the apple and gave it to Ying Sheng.

    Seeing the doubts on Ying Sheng''s face, Yan Mei smiled.

    She removed the watch she was wearing and stretched her hand at Ying Sheng.

    "Here. My scars." Ying Sheng opened her mouth as she looked at the scars on Yan Mei''s wrist.

    She knew these scars but she also had one. So¡­..the strong woman she looked up to also had issues.

    She wasn''t the only one fighting a hard battle.

    "See? I didn''t lie. Don''t me yourself Ying Sheng. You''re still young and had lots of life ahead of you. Let us help you. Let us in."

    Ying Sheng said nothing as she listened to Yan Mei.

    ''Could she trust them

    Could she be saved?

    Could she be happy?

    Will anyone love her?

    "You''re not alone anymore, Ying Sheng. You have all of us and we are here for you. Always."

 Chapter 192 Hate so Strong

    <h4>Chapter 192 Hate so Strong</h4>

    After spending some time with Ying Sheng, she fell asleep. Yan Mei stared at Ying Sheng who was sleeping and sighed.

    "Do you think she would be okay?"

    Lei Zhao nced at Ying Sheng and nodded.

    "Hmm...she will. It will take time but I''m sure everything will be okay. Don''t worry."

    Lei Zhao said as he nted a kiss on his wife''s forehead.

    "Let''s sit in the garden." Lei Zhao suggested.

    Yan Mei nodded and followed Lei Zhao to the garden.

    Once they reached the garden they found a bench and sat down.

    "How is your therapy going?" Lei Zhao had spent most of his time with Ying Sheng so he couldn''t apany his wife for her therapy sessions.

    He was afraid seeing Ying Sheng cutting herself will trigger Yan Mei but it doesn''t seem to be the case.

    It seems seeing Ying Sheng like this has inspired his wife to work harder to ovee her fears and depression. Lei Zhao knew his wife wanted to motivate Ying Sheng with her journey.

    After all, if anyone can convince Ying Sheng to seek help it was his wife.

    Yan Mei shook her head and avoided Lei Zhao''s gaze.

    "I don''t know¡­.it''s just hard to tell a stranger your deepest scars. I couldn''t tell her what happened seven years ago. I''m afraid if I open those memories it would consume me. I''m afraid Lei Zhao."

    Lei Zhao frowned when he heard his wife.

    "What are you afraid of?" Lei Zhao asked softly.

    "Everything. I''m afraid I wouldn''t be able to ovee my depression and fears. I''m afraid I would disappoint Ying Sheng one day. I feel like a hypocrite preaching something that I can''t do.

    I''m afraid you would leave me¡­.once you see the ugliest scars.

    Lei Zhao flicked her forehead. "Silly¡­.are you still doubting my love for you? I will never leave you, even death couldn''t stop me. You think something that happened in the past and you had no control over can stop me?"

    Lei Zhao said as he wrapped his arms around her shoulder. Yan Meiid her head on his chest as Lei Zhao caressed her hair softly.

    "We will get through this, don''t worry. As long as we have each other." Lei Zhao muttered as he looked at the old couple walking in the garden.

    The woman was in a white hospital gown and the man was holding her hand tightly as if he was afraid she would disappear any moment.

    They gazed at each other for a while and the man said something making the womanugh.

    "Wifey¡­.you see those old couples?" Yan Mei smiled and nodded.

    "Hmm.."

    "One day we are going to grow old together and we''ll tell our children and their children that it wasn''t easy but we made it."

    Lei Zhao said with a warm smile on his face. It''s like he was picturing himself old with Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei looked up at Lei Zhao and smiled. She pressed a quick kiss on his lips and blushed.

    "I love you, Lei Zhao." Yan Mei said.

    Lei Zhao beamed, "Of course you do. How can you resist my charms."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes but she had a ghost smile on her lips.

    "Narcissistic, are we?" Yan Mei mocked.

    "Yes, we are." Lei Zhao chuckled and just like that the stress and fear of losing Ying Sheng these past few days disappeared.

    "I will apany you on your next therapy." Lei Zhao said after a few minutes offortable silence between them.

    Yan Mei nodded, "Alright."

    Maybe with Lei Zhao by her side, she could finally open up.

    ****************************

    "Tch, tch¡­.she looks so happy and I hate it!" A man who was watching Yan Mei and Lei Zhao from far away spat with bitternessced in his tone.

    Why is she happy? She doesn''t deserve to be happy! This happiness only his sister deserves it but¡­..

    The only fault of his sister was to love someone she shouldn''t have.

    He could still remember how happy she was about anything she talked about that man on the phone.

    But that happiness didn''tst. Everything was snatched away from his precious sister because of this woman.

    "Feng Mei¡­" The man muttered the name and busted into a manicugh.

    "Oh he was going to enjoy this game. Little Kitty,hope you can keep up." He mumbled.

    "How are things going?" He asked his assistant who was standing behind him.

    "Good Sir! I have the video prepared and we will release it during her new collectionunch."

    The man''s lips curved into a sadistic smile.

    "Don''t forget to send her precious husband the copy of the videos. I wonder if he will still love her after seeing what a mess I made her into."

    Shadow who was hiding in the trees frowned when he heard the man. He has seen people spying on Yan Mei in the shadows but he did nothing because he wanted to see what they were going to do or who they were.

    But he was still confused about what they were talking about. He met Yan Mei two years ago so he didn''t know much about the details in her past life. But whoever this man was he was extremely dangerous. Shadow could sense the evil aura radiating from the man.

    ''What videos? And why is this man keen on destroying Yan Mei?''

    He has never met anyone with so much hate brewing in his eyes. Whoever this man was he had to warn Yan Mei.

    But¡­..his mistress seems to be going through a lot of things too. Can he bother her with this?

    "Make sure everything goes ording to n. I don''t want any mistakes. Understand?"

    The assistant shivered as fear boiled in his veins.

    "Y-yes boss."

    No one knows why their boss hates this woman so much. At first they thought their boss was obsessed about the woman because he loves her butter they realized their boss simply hated the woman. His hate was so strong that it had turned into an obsession.

 Chapter 193 Prince charming

    <h4>Chapter 193 Prince charming</h4>

    Ying Sheng grunted in pain as she tiredly opened her eyelids. She blinked several times before everything came crushing back to her. Oh, she was currently at the hospital.

    "Miss Ying, how are you feeling?" A soft voice asked her. It was the nurse who was injecting her medicine.

    "I''m good." Ying Sheng muttered staring at the hand the nurse was giving the injection. She didn''t even wince just staring numbly.

    She looked away and tilted her head to the side. Her eyes met a worried brown orbs.

    Liam. He looked so¡­..worn out. There were dark circles under his eyes. He had grown a stubble and his skin was extremely pale. Ying Sheng has never seen the calm and gentle Liam like this.

    She frowned as they stared silently at each other. Ying Sheng saw tears welling up in Liam''s eyes and she looked away. She couldn''t bear to look at him like this. Ying Sheng gazed at the white ceiling. For some reason it has be her favorite spot to look at.

    "Okay, I''m done. Call me if you need anything." The nurse said and smiled warmly at her before leaving her alone with Liam.

    Dead silence fell between Liam and Ying Sheng once the nurse left them alone.

    Liam had no idea how long the silence was, until he heard Ying Sheng''s voice.

    "Are you just going to keep staring at me all day?" Ying Sheng muttered.

    Liam fidgeted at the entrance before he strolled inside the room towards her. He has been waiting for her to wake up these past three days.

    He would always hold her hands and beg her to wake up because he had alot to say to her but now that she was finally awake, Liam had no idea what to say.

    "H-hey¡­." Liam said awkwardly avoiding her gaze.

    "Seriously hey? Is that what you want to say to me Cutie?" Ying Sheng said sarcastically.

    Liam sighed slightly at her words as a brief smile graced his lips.

    "It seems you''re feeling okay?" Liam said as he rubbed the back of his neck.

    Ying Sheng nced at her bandaged hands and nodded.

    Yeah....I guess I am." Then another silence fell between them again.

    "So¡­"

    "I-I"

    They both said at the same time causing them to smile at each other.

    "Okay,dies first.". Ying Sheng shook her head.

    "No, you talk first." She refuted but Liam didn''t bulge.

    Seeing the determined look on Liam''s face, Ying Sheng sighed.

    "I''m sorry, Liam."

    Liam scrunched his face in confusion when he heard her.

    ''Why was she apologizing?''

    "Why are you sorry?" He asked her with a confused frown marred on his face.

    Ying Sheng avoided his gaze and took a deep breath.

    "I feel like like I have disappointed you. I-I just want to be happy." Ying Sheng said tly.

    Liam gazed at her without saying anything..

    "You won''t understand how it feels to have control over your own thoughts and mind.

    How to wake up everyday and wish you didn''t. You always have to act strong and nonchnt when all you need is a hug and a reassuring smile from someone that everything will be okay. Even though you know it wouldn''t.

    Ying Sheng sighed as she stared at her bandaged wrists resting on herps. She tried to ignore the ache in her heart.

    "Anytime I look in the mirror and see my lifeless eyes, I feel disgusted with myself. Why am I so weak? It''s not like I don''t want to live, it just I''m so tired¡­...tired of everything."

    Ying Sheng breathed. Everytime she was with Liam she finds herself opening up to him. Things she wouldn''t even say to the therapist Lei Zhao hired for her.

    Ying Sheng blinked away the tears and found herself being pulled into a bone crushing hug from Liam. Her nose felt sour.

    "It''s okay. I understand. I''m sorry too. I wasn''t there when you needed me the most. I broke my promise. I''m really sorry."

    Liam said as he caressed her scalp.

    "Even the mighteset and strongest soldiers get tired too. So don''t say you''re weak. We would get through this together. Okay? Remember I said I will never let go of your hands."

    Ying Sheng felt warmth boiled in her veins and she nodded.

    "Alright."

    Liam smiled, "Let''s not talk about this. Hmm¡­.. tell me apart from Ice cream what else do you like?"

    Liam said changing the depressed topic.

    Ying Sheng eyes sparkled with an unknown light.

    "Disney princess cartoons!" She blurred out.

    Liam pulled away and stared at her silently for a few seconds before he let out a pearl ofughter.

    "What?" He asked amused.

    "What-what?" Ying Sheng''s lips curved into a smile.

    "I like happy endings. How the princesses or ordinary woman like Cindere always get their prince at the end of the day and they live happily ever after!"

    Ying Sheng pouted as she exined.

    Liam smiled and flickered her nose.

    "So you want to find a prince charming?" Liam teased her.

    Ying Sheng avoided Liam''s gaze as a blush taint her cheeks.

    "Who doesn''t?" She shed Liam a smile and leaned back on the bed while Liam sat on the edge of the bed.

    "Hmmm...so I want to be your prince charming would you ept me, Princess?" Liam grinned widely at her as he asked.

    Ying Sheng stared at Liam and busted intoughter.

    "What?" Liam asked as he stared at herughing. His lips couldn''t help but also stretched into a smile.

    Liam leaned forward and touched the edges of her cut hair.

    "Short hair really suits you." Ying Sheng looked up and they eyes met. Wait their eyes seems to be meeting alot today. Ying Sheng thought amsued.

    Liam''s eyes were filled with so much unknown emotions making Ying Sheng''s heart skip a beat.

    Guilt

    Sadness

    Pain

    Relief

    Affection and love?

    These were the emotions brewing in Liam''s eyes.

    Ying Sheng frowned. Why were he looking at her the same way her cousin looks at his wife?

    Maybe...did he like her?

    Ying Shengughed at her own thoughts and shook her head aggressively.

    "What are you thinking?" Liam asked her when he saw her shaking her head.

    "Nothing. I''m hungry."

 Chapter 194 Confession

    <h4>Chapter 194 Confession</h4>

    It''s been three days since Ying Sheng woke up from aa. Liam couldn''t lie to himself that he was not afraid when he saw her lying in her own pool of blood with cuts on her wrist.

    Her skin was so pale and her lips were blue. Liam thought he was going to lose her but somehow she made it.

    Every time he closes his eyes he sees this scene. Liam had to admit he was traumatized by the scene he saw.

    His brother had let him see a therapist since he was afraid something would help to him. Liam blew out air. He wanted to call Dong Yishan to ask how Ying Sheng was even though he left her five minutes ago.

    If Lucas hadn''t call him that their father was spying on him he wouldn''t have left the hospital.

    Liam was afraid his father would forbid him from seeing Ying Sheng once he knows she is suicidal.

    Someone poked Liam''s shoulder snapping him out of his thoughts.

    Liam nced sideways and saw Lucas plopping down next to him on the couch.

    "What''s up, lover boy? Are you thinking about her huh?"

    Lucas gazed at Liam with a mischievous glint in his eyes as he smirked.

    "What do you want, Lucas?" Liam said ignoring his question.

    "Brother why are you so cold to me huh?" Lucas said feigning a hurtful expression.

    "I was just trying to cheer you up since you look like a lost puppy. Those sad eyes and dark circles¡ªdude you look like a zombie."

    Lucas heaved a sigh, "I should definitely take a picture of you looking like the mummy. You have even grown a stubble. What happened to being the hygienic brother and you scolding me to shave."

    Lucas took his phone and quickly snapped a picture of Liam. He grinned excitedly staring at the picture. Oh one day he would tease his brother with this picture.

    "Are you still worried about Miss Ying?" Lucas expression turned serious as he asked his brother.

    "No, I''m not." Liam said, trying to sound firm. He knows once he admits it, his brother wouldn''t let him go with his teasing.

    "Of course you''re not thinking about her." Lucas said sarcastically.

    He gazed at his brother with a smirk on his mouth. Liam shifted ufortable in the couch with his brothers intense gaze boring into him.

    "Fine...okay I''m worried about her. Are you happy?"

    Liam run his fingers through his hair as he heaved a sigh.

    "See it wasn''t so hard to admit you''re worried about her."

    Lucas said with a mischievous smile on his lips.

    Liam shot his brother a deadly re but Lucas just grinned at him clearly unaffected by his brother''s outburst.

    "Tell me what are you worried about?" Lucas asked.

    "Seriously?" Liam groaned.

    "Seriously." Lucas retorted.

    "I-I I''m afraid."

    Lucas''s face contorted with confusion.

    "What are you afraid of?"

    "Can I win Ying Sheng in six months? I don''t think she is ready for a rtionship yet and I don''t want to risk our friendship. I would rather be her friend who would secretly love her from far then to mess our friendship up."

    Lucas patted Liam''s shoulder. "Rx bro, everything will work out."

    Liam smiled slightly and nodded.

    "Thanks, Lucas."

    Lucas grinned and wrapped his hands around his brother''s shoulder.

    "I know I''m the best brother in the world. Don''t act so touch or I will tear up."

    Lucas said sat sarcastically wiping his non existent tears.

    Liam rolled his eyes at his brother''s.

    "Don''t worry I''m sure Miss Ying would eventually fall for you. Look at this face. Who can resist huh? Also you have such a soft heart. Something Miss Ying could use. Just don''t rush and trust the process."

    Liam nodded.

    "Anyway, I have a date tonight with that girl I was telling you about. You remember right?"

    Liam scrunched his face, "Which one? You always talk about a lot of girls."

    Lucas shook his head and sighed.

    "I have changed bro, I really want this girl so I''m not messing up."

    "Huh, that serious?" Liam couldn''t help but be curious about the mysterious girl who has been able to win his womanizing brother''s heart."

    "Alright, let''s go and eat. You have lost weight. Mom will freak out if she sees you like this."

    Lucas said changing the subject as he stood up.. He knew his brother didn''t believe him so he won''t waste time saying anything..

    Liam sighed and stood up, following Lucas out of the room.

    *********************

    "Hey¡­.how is our pretty patient doing today?" A familiar voice greeted snapping Ying Sheng out of her thoughts. Ying Sheng nced at the entrance and saw Dong Yishaning inside.

    "Hy Dongdong." Ying Sheng smiled at the young woman. The first time Dong Yishan came here, Ying Sheng had ignored her. She didn''t want anyone to see her at her lowest.

    She thought she would see pity or mockery in Dong Yi Han''s eyes but there was nothing like that.

    Her eyes were so innocent and kind that Ying Sheng couldn''t help but soften. Dong Yishan didn''tin or forced Ying Sheng to talk to her the first day. She just solely talked about everything. Her trips to other countries, shopping, her ex boyfriend who cheated on her with some blonde girl and even food she was allergic to.

    Ying Sheng thought she would get bored with her chattering but surprisingly she wasn''t. She actually found herself listening to the youngdy. Her noise was better than the cold silence and it distracted her from her thoughts.

    Ying Sheng can still remember how happy Dong Yishan was when she started talking to her.

    Did Ying Sheng envy Dong Yishan? Yes she did. She wishes she could be free spirited like Dong Yishan. She was so carefree and a bubble of happiness.

    Ying Sheng wishes she was like that.

    "A do you miss your cutie already?" Dong Yishan grinned as she sat at the edge of the bed.

    Ying Sheng rolled her eyes at Dong Yishan.

    "He just left a few minutes ago, so no I don''t miss him." Ying Sheng shrugged at Dong Yishan.

    Dong Yishan stuck her tongue at Ying Sheng and changed the topic.

    "Do you know my favorite idol ising to City S. He was on tour and he said in order to thank his fans he would be doing a concert. Oh my! I''m so excited."

    Dong Yishan eximed excitedly with a dreamy look on her face.

    Ying Sheng smiled and shook her head helplessly.

    "He is so handsome. Do you think he would notice the coward and fall for me at first sight? Like that movie....I have forgotten the name."

    Dong Yishan pouted as she said.

    Ying Sheng chuckled at her expression and shook her head helplessly.

    "Okay, now I''m curious about your idol. Who is it?" Ying Sheng raised her brows as her lips curved into a smile.

    "Oh wait, let me show you his picture. But promise me you won''t fall for him." Dong Yishan said sternly, causing Ying Sheng to scoff.

    "I promise?"

    Dong Yishan nodded in satisfaction and turned her phone''s screen on. After all her idol was her screen saver.

    "Here¡­" Dong Yishan said and showed Ying Sheng her phone.

    Ying Sheng looked at the person on the screen and nearly vomited blood.

    The idol Dong Yishan was talking about was Li Wei; her cousin.

    "Please don''t tell me, he is the idol you''re talking about." Ying Sheng wrinkled her nose as she said.

    Dong Yishan blinked and nodded.

    "Why, he is handmexy right?" Dong Yishan blushed as she said.

    "Handmexy? Is that even a word?"

    Dong Yishan nodded.

    "Of course it is, handsome and sexy; handmexy"

    Ying Sheng shook her head. How can that stinky Li Wei be ''handmexy?''

    "You need to get your eyes checked. How can this ugly guy be handmexy?"

    Dong Yishan widened her eyes and she red at Ying Sheng.

    "You''re so lucky I like you or I would have spank you right now. How can you insult my idol!"

    "I can because that stinky guy is my cousin."

    Dong Yishan stiffened and she widened her eyes.

    "Wait what? He is your cousin? But how¡ªyou have different names."

    Dong Yishan blushed as she said.

    "Because my aunt married and he got his dad''s surname." Ying Sheng exined as she gave Dong Yishan. ''are you dumb look?''

    "Oh?" Dong Yishan blushed and quickly changed the subject.

    "So.....you are going home tomorrow. Are you excited?"

    Ying Sheng looked at the entrance and a sad smile spilled from her lips. She has been staring at the entrance everyday hoping to see her mom or father but none of them came.

    Everyone has been here. Her aunt, Mr. Lei, Yan Mei, Lei Zhao, Liam, even Liam''s mother had sent her food since she couldn''te in person because of her husband. And Dong Yishan who always drives everyone away and apanies her.

    "Hmm...I guess I am."

    Dong Yishan saw the sad glint Ying Sheng''s eyes but she said nothing.

    "Once we get out of here, I''m taking you straight to the salon." Ying Sheng held her hair and smiled.

    "Okay."

    "Anything, you want to do once you get out of here?"

    Dong Yishan asked Ying Sheng.

    Ying Sheng looked at the ceiling and nodded.

    "Yes. I want to do something I should have done long ago."

    Dong Yishan looked at Ying Sheng and raised her brows.

    "What?" She couldn''t help but ask out of curiosity.

    "Confession."

    Dong Yishan frowned in confusion.

    "What confession?"

    Ying Sheng smiled and shook her head.

 Chapter 195 The perfect Husband

    <h4>Chapter 195 The perfect Husband</h4>

    Yan Mei stood in front of the window as she fell into a thought.

    "Are you thinking about me?" Lei Zhao whispered into her ears as he stood behind her, his chest supporting her back as she leaned back into him.

    Lei Zhao kissed a nape causing shivers to run along her spine. A smile etched on his face as he turned her around, pinning her between the window and his body.

    Yan Mei licked her lips and Lei Zhao''s gaze fell on it. He lowered his head and crushed his lips to hers. Yan Mei kissed him back as she racked her fingers through his hair.

    Lei Zhao pulled away and he stared at her.

    "Let''s go on a date tonight. These past few days have been tough." Lei Zhao said and waited for her reply.

    Yan Mei smiled, "Hmm but on one condition."

    Lei Zhao arched his brow at his wife, "What condition?"

    "You have to help me pick a dress." Yan Mei said as she stared back at Lei Zhao who was looking intensely at her.

    Lei Zhao grinned and pressed a kiss on her forehead.

    "Anything for my queen." Lei Zhao winked at her.

    Yan Mei swatted his hand and smiled.

    ***************

    Yan Mei had finished putting on the dress, Lei Zhao had selected for her ¡ªa simple but elegant red dress that hung her body perfectly, when Lei Zhao came out of the bathroom.

    "Do you need help?" Lei Zhao smirked as he strolled towards her.

    "Hmm." Yan Mei pulled her hair up.

    Lei Zhao pulled her zipper up and he put his arms around Yan Mei''s waist.

    Yan Mei turned around and pushed him away.

    "Go get dressed."

    Lei Zhao pouted, "Not even a kiss?"

    Yan Mei shook her hand and walked to the dresser and looked at herself in the mirror. She pulled a red lipstick and applied.

    "You look absolutely breathtaking." Lei Zhao said and hugged her from behind.

    "I''m going to have to gouge a lot of people''s eyes tonight." Lei Zhao frowned as he gazed at her reflection in the mirror.

    Yan Mei turned around and smiled. "But I won''t have eyes for those men only you love, only you."

    Lei Zhao pulled Yan Mei to his chest and trailed his fingers across her cheeks.

    "I can''t wait to remove this clothes from you when we get back."

    Yan Mei blushed and pushed him away, "Pervert." Lei Zhao chortled and walked to the wardrobe to get dress.

    *********************

    Once they reached the restaurant, Lei Zhao got down and opened the door for Yan Mei.

    Taking her hand in his own, Lei Zhao brought it up his lips, cing a gentle kiss on it.

    "Beautiful." Lei Zhaoplimented Yan Mei causing her a smile to form on her face.

    "Thank you."

    Once they got inside, the manager led them to a table.

    A waiter was already waiting for them at their table.

    "Wee, Mr. and Mrs. Lei. What can I get you?"

    The waiter said as he handed them the menu.

    Lei Zhao ordered for them and they had a lot of fun chatting about casual stuffs.

    He told her about his childhood. How bad he was but his mother and brother thought he was a saint so they shielded him. How he met his friends, Jun Mo, Henry Liu and Edward Wu. Some embarrassing moment between them.

    Yan Meiughed as she listened to his stories. Suddenly her smile dimmed when she realized she was too rxed and happy. That scared her.

    At the back of her mind, there was a voice whispering to her that her happiness wouldn''tst. Bad omens don''t get happiness.

    Seeing the worried look in her eyes. Lei Zhao furrowed his brows.

    "Do you want to go the balcony?" Lei Zhao suddenly asked snapping Yan Mei from her thoughts.

    Lei Zhao stood up and strolled towards her and stretched his hands towards her.

    Yan Mei took his hand and they walked towards the rooftop. Yan Mei looked at the sky filled with stars as they stepped into the open.

    "So¡­.what are you thinking about?" Lei Zhao asked as he stood beside her.

    "Nothing." Yan Mei said as she continued to gaze at the stars.

    "Wifey¡­." Lei Zhao said sternly. He didn''t like when she kept things to herself. Lei Zhao could see the emotions brewing in her eyes.

    Fear

    Sadness

    A hint of worry.

    He wanted them to go out tonight as they have gone through a lot these past few months.

    "Can we not talk about it?" Yan Mei asked avoiding his stern gaze.

    "Please¡­." Lei Zhao sighed.

    "It just¡­." Yan Mei trailed off.

    "Don''t worry¡­.you can tell me everything."

    Yan Mei took a deep. Gosh, how did she get such a perfect husband?

    If someone says there is nothing like a good man, she would show him her husband.

    "Everything seems too good be true. I have a loving husband, a supporting inws and a flourishing business. I''m afraid it''s just calm before the storm. Once I feelfortable I will be drop back to the ground and I''m scared I will drag you with me."

    Yan Mei shut her eyes as a single tear dropped from her eyes.

    "I wasn''t born to be happy, that I have learned in a hard way." Yan Mei chuckled sadly.

    "Don''t say that." Lei Zhao stated.

    "Like I said we would get through this. The greatest love stories always had trials but they always get through it. That is the power of love."

    Lei Zhao decleared.

    "Really?" Yan Mei mumbled.

    "Yes. So instead of worrying about these stuffs just enjoy the moment and make most of it. Focus on the happy moments."

    Lei Zhao said as he reached over and gently pressed a kiss on her tear filled eyes.

    "I want you to be happy Wifey. That is a promise I made myself the moment I met you and I''m going to do everything and anything to make you happy. I want you to be happy and I want to be happy with you."

    Yan Mei sighed, "You''re¡­."

    "The perfect husband you could ask for?" Lei Zhao cheekily causing Yan Mei tough.

    "Yes and a narcissist."

    Lei Zhao chuckled and hugged her from behind. He rested his chin her shoulder as they enjoyed the peaceful quietness of the night.

 Chapter 196 Make babies

    <h4>Chapter 196 Make babies</h4>

    Disimer: Mature content ahead.

    After spending some time at the balcony, Lei Zhao left with Yan Mei. Yan Mei seemed to be caught in a fantasynd. She realized the more time she spent with Lei Zhao, her love for him increased. Lei Zhao was special, she felt he would be a wonderful father as well since he is a wonderful husband.

    Yan Mei couldn''t help but envision what it would be like to have a family with Lei Zhao. Will he be a strict dad? Or he would pamper their kids.

    Yan Mei''s lips curved into a smile as she saw a strict Lei Zhao scolding their son.

    As Lei Zhao drove them to the apartment, he noticed the faraway look and half smile on her face and he arched his brows. He had even called her but she didn''t hear him.

    "Wifey! Hey...what are you thinking about? I''m right here."

    Lei Zhao''s voice snapped Yan Mei out of her thoughts. Her half smile formed into a full smile.

    "Sorry...I was lost in thoughts."

    Lei Zhao shook his head helplessly. "What are you thinking about?" Lei Zhao wanted to know. His wife has been thinking alottely and that bothered him.

    "Do you really want to know?" Yan Mei asked, amused.

    "Hmm yes, tell me."

    Yan Mei blushed and gazed through the window.

    "I was just wondering about what it would be like to have our own kids. I think you would be a great father."

    Lei Zhao''s eyes sparkled with amusement. He knew kids were a sour topic for his wife so he never brought it up for them to have kids.

    But at the back of Lei Zhao''s mind, he was hoping the medicine would work. His wife finished drinking the medicine two days ago. Now they were waiting for the doctor toe and check if the medicine really worked.

    "Really?" Lei Zhao asked as he parked the car. They had now reached their apartment.

    "Yes¡­" Yan Mei''s smile broadened.

    Lei Zhao grinned as his eyes searched hers as if he was looking for rification.

    He immediately was out of the door in an instant.

    He opened the door for Yan Mei and the moment she got down, Lei Zhao bent down and lifted her into his arms.

    Yan Mei gasped and wrapped her hand around his neck.

    "What are you doing?" Yan Mei questioned Lei Zhao seeing his eager look.

    Lei Zhao smirked,"To make babies."

    Yan Mei blushed and nipped yfully at his ear while he made his way to their apartment.

    Once he entered the code, he took her straight to the bedroom without even turning on the light.

    Yan Mei reached down to turn the door knob for him and gently pushed it open.

    Lei Zhaoid her gently on the bed. Yan Mei watched him remove his clothes with the help of the faint light drifting in through the open window.

    Yan Mei swallowed at how perfect his naked body was. Her gaze travelled between his legs and she felt heat pool between her legs.

    "Miss my little brother?" Lei Zhao asked when he felt her gaze between his legs. Yan Mei blushed and looked away.

    Lei Zhao chortled at his wife''s reaction as he climbed in beside her.

    First his lips made contact with hers gently. Yan Mei responded quickly as her hands roamed his body. His body felt so nice under her fingers as her hands moved to the muscles of his back.

    Yan Mei moaned as Lei Zhao''s lips sent ripples of pleasure through her as he kissed the sensitive area just below her ear and along her neck.

    Yan Mei felt the material of her dress cken as Lei Zhao opened the zipper. She could feel his fingers trailing against her skin as he continued his task.

    Once he was done, he eased the material and slipped the gown from her shoulders and helped her remove it. Then quickly her bra followed.

    After he was done, Lei Zhao lips found hers again. Pressing against him, she moved her breast across his chest earning a groan from him.

    Lei Zhao moved down as his lips caressed her nipples. His tongue teased her as her back arched.

    Pleasure shot through her and she curled her toes as he continued to assault her breast. Lei Zhao was torturing her sweetly.

    Unable to bear it any longer, Yan Mei gently pulled his shoulders but Lei Zhao''s mouth continued to lick, circled and sucked her breast causing her to write from the burning sensation that was centered in the middle of her abdomen.

    "Lei Zhao¡­.I need you!" Yan Mei cried out.

    Hearing the despair in his wife''s voice. Lei Zhao moved down as he trailed kisses on every inch of her body.

    Once he reached between her legs. His teeth found her panties as he removed them with his mouth.

    There was something so sensual about the scene that made Yan Mei more wet and horny.

    Lei Zhao slipped one finger inside her and he smirked.

    "You naughty girl, you''re already wet. So wet and it''s all for me."

    Yan Mei fidgeted as she tried to get him to move his fingers. The wait was killing her.

    She wanted him inside her. She wanted to feel them be one.

    Lei Zhao positioned himself at her entrance and he entered her slowly.

    Yan Mei arched her back and moaned.

    Lei Zhao removed his dick and mmed inside her again.

    He repeated the process for a while until Yan Mei couldn''t take it anymore.

    "Please!"

    Lei Zhao smirked and then started pounding widely inside her.

    The bed shook and Yan Mei''s moan and cries echoed in the room as Lei Zhao brought their passion to an ultimate height.

    "I want to be on top." Yan Mei rasped.

    Lei Zhao quickly changed their position and with Yan Mei on top of him.

    He held the back of her head and ced her head in the crook of his neck. With her breast caressing his chest, Lei Zhao rimmed roughly inside her.

    When Yan Mei''s release came she cried out with pleasure before momentster Lei Zhao also cum.

    "I love you." Lei Zhao heard Yan Mei whispered. in his ears.

    A/N: Sorry guys for the super superte update. It just I''m busy with stuffs. I''m so sorry. Also, thank you guys so much for your support and understanding! I know it''s annoying but the fact that you guys understand and wait patiently makes me touch. Wish I can hug you guys and nt kisses across your face hehe. Thank you!

    Just two days left for all of this to be over sigh.

    DON''T OPEN NEXT TWO CHAPTERS. Sorry again....

 Chapter 197 Pizza

    <h4>Chapter 197 Pizza</h4>

    "Ying Sheng are you sure, you don''t want to move in with me?" Lei Xiao Tong asked softly as she stared at Ying Sheng.

    Ying Sheng was discharged from the hospital and Lei Xiao Tong wanted her to stay with her. But Ying Sheng chose to stay with Liam.

    She knew the one thing about being depressed is, you be a burden to others or everyone''s attention is on you.

    Ying Sheng knew her aunt was a busy woman and she didn''t want to bother her.

    Seeing the determined look on Ying Sheng''s face, Lei Xiao Tong sighed and gave up.

    "Alright, but remember to call me if you need something. Anything you want, just call me or your cousin okay?"

    Ying Sheng forced a smile and nodded.

    "Thank you, aunt." Lei Xiao Tong smiled and pressed a kiss on Ying Sheng''s forehead.

    She turned to Liam and smiled, "Call me if something happens. Also, thank you Liam for taking care of Ying Sheng."

    Liam blushed slightly and nodded. "Alright."

    Lei Xiao Tong stood up from the chair and looked at Ying Sheng onest time.

    "Your father is dealing with some family issues that''s why you didn''t see him. But he told me to tell you, he loves you."

    Ying Sheng stiffened when she heard Lei Xiao Tong but she said nothing.

    Did her father really loved her?

    Then why didn''t he try to stop her when she whispered in his ears that day?

    "Ying Sheng did you hear me?" Lei Xiao Tong asked with concernced in her tone when she saw her zoning out.

    Ying Sheng nodded. "Yes, aunt I heard you."

    Lei Xiao Tong stared at Ying Sheng for a moment before nodding in understanding.

    "It''s gettingte, I will leave you to rest. Take care, Ying Sheng. Your cousin will pick you up on Monday for the check up."

    "Alright."

    Lei Xiao Tong said goodbye to them and left Liam''s house. It''s been two days since Ying Sheng had been discharged from the hospital. And during those days, her aunt, Lei Zhao, Dong Yishan and Yan Mei alwayse to check on her.

    Ying Sheng knew Liam was asked to be on her suicide watch so since she came home, Liam has never left her side. Did she find this suffocating? No, the more time she spent with Liam. The more attached she bes. Being attached to something was extremely scary but¡ª

    "Ying Sheng!" Liam''s voice brought Ying Sheng back to reality. She scrunched her face when she saw the worried look on his face.

    "What?" Ying Sheng asked.

    "For a moment I thought I lost you there." Liam said as he ran his fingers through his hair.

    "What are you thinking about?" Liam asked as he strolled towards her.

    "When we would eat the pizza." Ying Sheng said as she gazed at Liam.

    Liam knew she was lying but he didn''t push her or force her to tell her what she was really thinking about.

    "I''m going to bring it, wait for me."

    Liam said as he walked towards the kitchen.

    A few minutester, a loud buzzer sounded from the kitchen. Soon Liam came back holding arge rectangr pizza that sent a dizzy aroma through the room.

    Ying Sheng''s stomach rumbled when she saw the pizza. Liam''s mother had prepared for them. She had sent someone to deliver it to me just a few minutes ago.

    "Here it is." Liam chanted as he ced the pizza on the dinning table. Ying Sheng was already waiting for him there.

    "Be careful it''s hot." Liam said.

    Ying Sheng looked up at him and nodded. For the next half hour, Ying Sheng ate the most delicious pizza in her twenty years of existence.

    Ying Sheng found out, she couldn''t stop eating even when she had reached her limit. By the time they had taken thest bite of the pizza, Ying Sheng''s stomach was protesting.

    When Liam had suggested, they watched a rest for a while for the food to digest. She agreed.

    Liam plopped down on the floor in front of the glowing fire and stretched out, leaning his backfortably against the couch.

    Without saying anything, Ying Shengid on the floor and rested her head on Liam''sp.

    Ying Sheng grinned at his surprised look, before closing her eyes and letting out a deep breath.

    "Don''t act like I''m murdering someone Cutie, I''m just resting on yourp."

    Ying Sheng said sarcastically with her eyes still closed.

    Liam blushed at her words. "Hmm¡­."

    A soft smile formed on Liam''s lips as he gently stroked Ying Sheng''s forehead.

    His fingers run through her now ck chin-length hair. Liam was quite surprised when she came back with Dong Yishan with a short ck hairstyle. He was so used to her red hair that he hardly recognized the woman in front of him.

    "Have you forgotten me already, Cutie?" She had asked him with a mischievous smile.

    Liam just stared at her. At that moment he wanted to run his fingers through her hair and nt a kiss on her forehead but he knew he couldn''t.

    She looked so beautiful with her new hair that he couldn''t bear to look away. Even though her skin was pale and her wrists were wrapped with bandages. Her beauty wasn''t destroyed.

    Liam didn''t know if he liked the fierce red haired who always teased him or this new quiet and closed off Ying Sheng. Ever since she came back from the hospital, she has be more quiet than usual and always seems to be in a deep thought.

    Her expression was always unfathomable making it difficult for Liam to know what was going on in her head.

    Ying Sheng let out a deep breath as if finally taken a break, a break from life.

    The gentle warmth from the fire, and the stated feeling from within allowed Ying Sheng to rx more than usual.

    With her eyes closed, Ying Sheng smiled and Liam''s gaze stopped on her lips. He really wanted to kiss her right now.

 Chapter 198 Stolen kisses

    <h4>Chapter 198 Stolen kisses</h4>

    But Liam knew better than to kiss her. So he started a conversation with her in order to stop himself from doing something he would regret.

    For the first time since she came home, Ying Sheng let her guard downpletely and enjoyed apanionable moment with Liam.

    They talked about things that did not really matter, yet she enjoyed the casual talk between them.

    They talked untilte in the night, it wasn''t until Ying Sheng said she was going to bed that Liam realized it waste. She stood up from hisp.

    "Can you stay for a few minutes?" Liam pleaded.

    He didn''t know what came over him but he reached out and gently caressed her cheeks with the palm of his hand.

    Ying Sheng stiffened and blinked. Why is she always receiving mix signals from this guy?

    Did he like her? Or he was just treating her as a friend.

    "Stay a little longer." Liam said again gazing into her eyes.

    Ying Sheng arched her brows. "Shouldn''t you be the one to tell me to go and rest?" Ying Sheng chuckled as she said.

    Liam blushed. He knew he was being selfish but he just couldn''t bear to depart from her. Nearly loosing her has made him clingy. He wanted to spend every second with her.

    Liam wanted to build happy moments with Ying Sheng to rece the bad ones. Seeing her in the pool of blood had traumatized him badly. Now he was afraid he would lose her.

    He had fallen in love with a girl who had no will to live and one day might leave him.

    Liam was scared; really scared. He has fallen in love with Ying Sheng so much that he knew she would take a part of him with her if she dies.

    "Please stay." Liam said in a near whisper. His eyes searched hers for any sign of withdrawal as he drew nearer to her.

    Ying Sheng felt herself in a trance as Liam moved closer to her. She didn''t even get the time to react when his lips imed hers in a soft and tender kiss. It''s like he was afraid, he was going to hurt her.

    Strange warmth invaded Ying Sheng, before she couldprehend what it was, Liam pulled away.

    Ying Sheng realize the moment his lips touched hers the voices that had been apanying her disappeared.

    Liam blushed and fidgeted. He realized she was not responding to the kiss so he pulled away.

    Was she angry with him? He couldn''t bear to look at her rejection.

    "S-sorry. " Liam said in a shaky voice.

    Ying Sheng blinked and shook her head.

    "Don''t be¡­."

    Ying Sheng felt violently confused. Part of her wanted to grab Liam''s head and kiss him back. Yet a tiny part of her warned her not to. She wanted to cleave to him and never let him go.

    Why did she have these thoughts about another man when she was in love with another?

    Ying Sheng brought her gaze to meet his and saw his pure and innocent eyes staring at her with guilt.

    "I''m going to bed. Goodnight, Cutie." Ying Sheng smiled at him and strolled towards her bedroom without looking back.

    Liam stared Ying Sheng leaving and he groaned.

    "What have I done?" He whispered to himself.

    ************************

    In the middle of night, Liam woke up to drink water at the kitchen. He has been tossing and moving in his bed the whole night. His mind kept reminding him of his stupid move to kiss Ying Sheng when she was this vulnerable.

    After Liam finished drinking the water, he strolled towards his room. His brows furrowed when he heard whimpersing out of Ying Sheng''s room.

    Was she having a nightmare? Liam quickly entered her room and crouched down beside her.

    Tears were falling from her eyes as sobs racked through her.

    "Ying Sheng¡­.Ying Sheng!" Liam shook her but she seemed to be far gone in the nightmare.

    Liam pushed her hair away from her face, and gently wiped her tears.

    "Hey¡­..wake up."

    Still Ying didn''t even stir in her dreams. Liam frowned and roared out her name.

    "Ying Sheng!"

    Ying Sheng abruptly woke up and looked around her room. Her heart was pounding and she was sweating profusely as if she had ran a hundred miles.

    "Hey¡­.are you okay? What''s wrong. " Liam asked softly as he grabbed her shoulders.

    Ying Sheng shook her head and pulled her knees to her chest. She couldn''t remember the nightmare she had but she knew was that it was terrible. She didn''t want to even close her eyes. Because she was scared.

    "It''s okay, breath in¡­.out." Liam said as he wiped the tears that was on her cheeks. Ying Sheng did what he said. Few minutester, she found herself calming down.

    "L-liam¡­" She whispered as she threw herself in his arms. Liam hugged her tightly as he rubbed her back.

    Ying Sheng sobbed silently into his chest. "I''m afraid, Liam."

    Ying Sheng whispered.

    "What are you afraid of?" Liam frowned as he asked.

    "I-I don''t know but I feel like something bad is about to happen." Ying Sheng said through her sobs.

    "Shss¡­..it''s okay. Everything will be fine."

    Liam coaxed her until she finally calmed down.

    "Can you stay with me?" Ying Sheng said.

    Liam smiled and nodded.

    "Sleep. I will be right here."

    Ying Sheng fidgeted, "That...I¡ªyou can sleep on the bed too. It''s a big bed."

    Liam searched his eyes for confirmation of her words before he nodded.

    Heid down beside her rigidly until he heard her breathing indicating she had fallen asleep. Liam turned around to face her as he stared at her sleeping face. She looked so beautiful as the moon reflected on her face.

    Ying Sheng moved closer in her sleep when she felt a warm object on her bed. She moved until she rested her head in Liam''s chest and her leg entwined with his.

    Liam smiled and wrapped his hands around her waist and slowly he closed his eyes.

    A/N: Someone asked if I''m dead heheeh no-no by God''s grace Author is still alive!

    I will officially start uploading on Sunday so please wait patiently. Sorry....

 Chapter 199 Kiss and Rejection

    <h4>Chapter 199 Kiss and Rejection</h4>

    The sunlight sneaked through the drapes waking Ying Sheng. She stiffened when she realized she was not alone on the bed. A hard body was pressing against her back.

    Liam bemoaned when he felt her stir on the bed. He tightened his hold on her, pulling her closer to his body.

    Ying Sheng felt his hot breath fanning the back of her neck. She turned around and stared at Liam who had his eyes closed. His lips were slightly parted as snores racked through him. His hair was tousled and his features were softened.

    He looked so cute and handsome that Ying Sheng couldn''t bear to look away.

    Her Cutie was truly the cutest. A smile spilled from Ying Sheng''s lips as she gazed at him. She stretched out her hands subconsciously and caressed his brows.

    Liam slowly opened his eyes when he felt her hand on his face. Actually, he had woken up a few minutes ago but he didn''t want to let go of Ying Sheng. Her body felt so good in his arms and her sweet scent made him intoxicated.

    Slowly he opened his eyes and met her gaze. A blush spread across his cheeks when he realized how close she was. He could even feel her breath.

    Ying Sheng grinned widely, "Are you blushing?" Ying Sheng asked Liam with a mischievous smile on her lips.

    "No. I''m not blushing." Liam shook his head vigorously. Ying Sheng chuckled when she heard him.

    "My cheeks are just testing different shades of red." Liam mumbled.

    Ying Sheng ced a palms on his cheeks.

    "A¡­.my Cutie is blushing this early morning. Aren''t you the cutest little thing."

    Ying Sheng teased Liam causing him to blush even harder.

    Ying Sheng bursted out into deepughter when she saw how red his face was. How can someone be so innocent?

    Ying Sheng had no idea how long sheughed but she realized this is the first time she wasughing since she came back.

    Ying Shengugh ceased when she felt Liam''s intense gaze on her.

    "What?" Ying Sheng arched her brows.

    Liam said nothing, he just grabbed Ying Sheng''s shoulders and hovered on top of her.

    His face was so close to her that his hot breath tickled on her face.

    Liam''s eyes bored into hers as his fingers removed the strands of hair from her face. Ying Sheng swallowed nervously as she felt her heart pounding loudly in her chest.

    "God, you''re so beautiful. And that smile of yours can destroy nations." Liam rasped.

    Ying Sheng blinked several times as she licked her lips nervously.

    ''Why was her heart racing rapidly in her chest.

    What the hell was going?''

    Ying Sheng stared at Liam. His lips curved into a smile as he bent and buried his head in the crook of his neck. Ying Sheng felt him smelling her. She should have found that creepy but she kinda liked it.

    "You''re smell so good. Anytime I''m near you, want to pull you into my arms just to get a wiff of your secent. And when youugh, everything disappears leaving your voice to be the only sweet melody I can hear." Liam mumbled in the crook of her neck.

    He drew back and met Ying Sheng''s gaze.

    "You¡­.what¡­." Ying Sheng stammered as she blushed as her heartbeat went erratic. Ying Sheng nearly believed that a different soul has upied Liam''s body.

    "You''re so beautiful. And¡ª"

    Ying Sheng found herself silencing Liam with a kiss. They have been kissing alottely and it''s not like she wasining. She enjoyed every moment of it.

    Liam kissed her back passionately in a lusciously demanding kiss. His lips teased the outer edge of her lips until she patted them with a moan.

    Liam''s hand slipped underneath her baggy shirt. He found out she was not wearing any bra. He softly stroked the outer curves of her breast. His fingers flickered her nipple and Ying Sheng gasped. Her back arching as shivers coursed through her.

    Liam moved downwards as he trailed kisses along her jawline before his lips found a sweet spot on her neck.

    Ying Sheng''s toes curled in pleasure. Suddenly, her brain realized the dangers and screamed it''s warnings. Hesitating, she moved a hand over to stop his movements.

    The sensation and desires rushing through her, scared her. She wanted to continue and lose herself in the heated sensation but she knew better. The little shred of sanity she has left stopped her.

    Things would go bad if she continued this. Liam deserved better. He was such a nice and caring guy and she didn''t deserve someone like him.

    Liam deserved a fancy girl with trophies and gooddy-like upbringing. He deserved someone he could proudly show off to his friends. Not a monster like her. Ying Sheng felt Liam was just confused.

    She knew her nearly killing herself had taken a troll on him. He was traumatized and maybe he was just caught up in the heat of the moment.

    He would definitely regret it once he realized he had slept with a stain like her. She was a monster. A broken ss and she was afraid she would cut him.

    Also, he was the only light in her darkness now. She really didn''t want to lose him. Too many things would be at stake and Ying Sheng didn''t want to risk it for a few minutes pleasure.

    Sensing her hesitation, Liam slowly removed his hands from her shirt. With deep concern in his eyes, he pulled away from her and stared at for a while before speaking.

    "Are you okay?" Liam asked softly.

    Ying Sheng looked away. Different emotions were rushing through her making her frustrated and confused.

    "Yes." She breathed.

    "Oh... then what''s wrong?" Liam continued to ask

    "Nothing."

    Liam heart sank as a thought crossed his mind.

    "Do you regret kissing me?" Liam whispered as he stared at his fingers.

    "I''m sorry¡­.." Ying Sheng trailed off.

    "It''s okay." Liam said with a gentle smile even though his heart was bleeding.

    Gosh, it hurts so bad. As he sat up. Ying Sheng saw he was having as much difficulty in getting his breath back under control as she was.

    Ying Sheng wished he would say something to ease their awkward atmosphere. She had no idea on what to say apart from sorry.

    She was sorry she couldn''t be the perfect girl for him and that she loved someone else. Or did she?

    Ying Sheng realize nowadays most of her thoughts were on Liam instead of Han Xi. The moment she spent with him would sh through her eyes.

    "I want you to know that I don''t regret kissing you. I did it because I want to. Not out of pity and I meant every word I said."

    Liam sighed as he racked his hands through his hair as he bit his lips. Ying Sheng gaze fell on his lips and she remembered their kiss. She quickly looked away.

    Liam stood up from the bed and strolled towards the door.

    "Don''t you have someone you like? Why do you keep giving me mix signal?!" Ying Sheng''s bellowed angrily. Clearly she was frustrated with this confused feelings she was having.

    Liam stopped in his tracks for a moment before turning to look at her.

    "Yes I do." He mumbled.

    Ying Sheng''s shoulders slumped when she heard him. What was she excepting? She chuckled and blew out air.

    "Why the fuck do you keep kissing me?!"

    "Because I love you damn it!" Liam blurted out before he could stop himself.

    Silence.

    Dead silence as they both stared at each other. Ying Sheng heart skipped a beat as she opened her mouth and closed it again.

    He¡­.loves her?

    But¡­.why¡­.how¡­.when¡­..

    She gazed into his eyes and the emotions there nearly suffocated her.

    "L-liam." Ying Sheng whispered.

    Did she lead him on? If she didn''t flirt with him all of this wouldn''t have happened. Now he has fallen in love with her. A broken, depressed, unwanted stain.

    "I love you." Liam repeated.

    Seeing her staring at him in a daze. Liam strolled towards her.

    He stood in front of her.

    "I''m in love with you."

    "I¡­" Ying Sheng had no idea how to react or what to even say. How would you react when the only light in your darkness tells you he loves you?

    How do you react when your best friend confess that he loves you?

    "You don''t have to say anything. I will wait for you. Besides what choice do I have?"

    Liam chortled humorlessly. "I have fallen deep with a girl who doesn''t even want to live.

    Do you know how scared I am to lose you? How torturing it is for me everyday to watch the woman I love sank deeper into depression everyday and knowing there is nothing I can''t do."

    All I can be is to be a friend to you but I don''t want to be just friends! No¡­.I want you. Want you to be mine. I want all of you, your body, your soul and your heart to be mine. And if I can''t have you then I would have nothing at all from you.".

    Ying Sheng brought her gaze to meet his and she saw his serious expression.

    A single tear slipped from Liam''s eyes and he looked away.

    ,He was waiting for her to say something... anything but Ying Sheng just sat there in a daze.

    Not able to handle her rejection,Liam bolted out of the room

    A/N: Ohkiee this is the end of volume 2. Thank you. Please add my new book, The Beautiful Monster to your library

 Chapter 200 A deal with a monster

    <h4>Chapter 200 A deal with a monster</h4>

    Liam left Ying Sheng''s room and strolled to his room. He felt like someone was squeezing his heart. With trembling hands, he locked the door andid on his bed staring at the ceiling.

    Tears welled up in his eyes as he drew in a deep breath to calm his aching heart.

    Even though Ying Sheng didn''t say anything, his heart was breaking with her rejection. He was so stupid to think that she would feel anything for him.

    He was a nerd, ugly and not cool. How could he everpete with that guy whom she is in love with. Even though, Ying Sheng hasn''t said anything, he could see she was in love with the guy.

    Liam felt angry at himself to have allow himself to have fallen deeper for her. But the heart wants what it wants and he didn''t ask his heart to beat for Ying Sheng.

    God, she was the most beautiful woman he has everid eyes on. She was strong, smart at the same time she was so fragile.

    Liam could still remember how his heart was racing in his chest the first time she spoke to him. Right there, he knew she was the one.

    He loves; loves her so much and the mere thought of never getting her makes him feel like someone was shooting bullets straight into his hearts.

    Liam could still remember how soft her lips smashed against his. How soft her body was under him and how perfectly her breast fit in his palms.

    He never thought of himself as the sexual type but for Ying Sheng he wanted to the guy that would make her scream in pleasure even though he had no idea how. He would learn for her.

    He wanted to make her moan out his name. How divine her moan sounds. Liam wanted more, he needed more. Screw being innocent. He wanted to be wild, fierce and fill Ying Sheng with love and he wouldn''t stop until he has her.

    He pictured her brown orbs flickering with desire for him. A beautiful smile on her face as she looks longing at him. He loved her sweet scent that seems to only belong to her.

    Liam felt like someone was drilling a hole in his chest when he remembered her expression when he told her he was in love with her.

    Should he put a distance between them? He needed to clear his head. Numbly he walked to the bathroom and turned on the shower. Stripping off his clothes, he stepped under the shower.

    He closed his eyes and tried to forget what had happened but he couldn''t.

    The way her tongue explored his mouth,the desire flickering in her eyes and the feeling of her running her fingers through his hair.

    Something heavy settled in Liam''s chest when he realized, this might be thest time he would ever get to touch her. Tears fell down his cheeks .

    They say men don''t cry but if you ever felt the excruciating pain of having your heart ripped out of your chest then you will know how painful it feels.

    It hurts; hurts so much.

    Theirte night drinking games, her teasing and her messy hair in the morning. All of these petty things made him love her more.

    Did he do the right thing by telling her? Maybe...he shouldn''t have. Maybe he should have waited. But it was toote now.

    *****************

    Ying Sheng stared at the door that was still opened and felt her heart racing in her chest.

    He loves her¡­..how could he? Ying Sheng drew in a long breath. For her, Liam was the perfect guy any woman could ask for, but she was so obsessed with Han Xi that she couldn''t see herself with anyone.

    Also, Liam deserved someone better. How can such a perfect soul falls in love with a monster like her? He deserved a trophy wife¡­.. something she would never be.

    Finally a sad thought crossed Ying Sheng''s mind. Was she going to lose Liam? Because Ying Sheng knew there was no way they could just be friends again.

    She felt her heart beat raging in, her pulse was louder as she felt herself getting a panic attack.

    Ying Sheng was afraid of losing the only significant person in her life. She abruptly went to bathroom, turned in the sink and threw water on her face to calm down but she couldn''t.

    Ying Sheng slowly looked at herself in the mirror and gazed at her pale face as Liam''s words echoed in her mind.

    It would be a lie if she said his words didn''t make her heart race but her mind and the demons in there made it hard for her to believe it. They were taunting her.

    How can someone love a mess like this?

    "Ugly duckling." Ying Sheng mumbled to the lifeless pale girl staring back at her.

    "You''re so ugly and pathetic. How can someone love you."

    Tears rolled down Ying Sheng''s cheeks as she screamed.

    "Shut up!" She balled her fist and smashed it against the mirror till it started bleeding.

    "You''re unworthy of love! Unworthy!" Ying Sheng felt all her demons crushing up on her, taunting her. The air in the room thicken and when she thought she was going to lose control, she felt a strong arms around her waist, pulling her from the mirror.

    Liam pulled her into a hug, and gently whispered,

    "Shss¡­.it''s okay."

    Liam pressed her face into his hard chest. When she finally calmed down, Liam spoke.

    "I''m so sorry¡­.sorry. You''re hurting because of me, right? I was so selfish. I promised myself to protect you but I hurt you rather."

    Ying Sheng shook her head agressively and pulled away from him.

    "No-no. I''m the one who is sorry. Sorry I can''t be the perfect girl for you."

    "Sorry that I have hurt you, I never wanted to hurt you." Ying Sheng continued.

    A frown formed on Liam''s face when he heard her. He cupped her face in his palms and kissed her forehead soothingly.

    "What are you talking about?" Liam whispered.

    "You falling in love with a monster like me, I''m sorry. I''m not worthy of love and you are so good you deserve someone better. No one deserves to fall in love with a monster like me." Ying Sheng sobbed as she said.

    "Ying Sheng¡­.look at me." Liam whispered, nudging her face up with a little while his thumbs caressed her wet cheeks.

    Reluctantly,Ying Sheng looked up and meet his gaze.

    "You need to stop loving me. Let me go. This isn''t a fairy tale or teen fiction where the depressed bad girl falls for the good boy and tries to change for him then they live happily ever after. This is real life and well¡­.life is fucked."

    Ying Sheng said, avoiding Liam''s gaze, loneliness flickering in her eyes.

    "But I-I won''t ask you.. to change or want you to change. I just want you to be my bad girl. You --can tie me up in bed- and fu¡­ck me until I forget my name." Liam stammered as he turned crimson red.

    Ying Sheng heaved a sigh, "Cutie, you''re supposed to look for a trophy wife who can cook and do chores. Not a monster like me who will destroy your perfect life. Also, we can''t be together."

    Liam''s heart nearly stopped in his chest when he heard her. His shoulders hunched, and he took a deep breath.

    ''Why?" He queried.

    "Because I love someone else."

    Ying Sheng blinked away her tears as she said.

    "I know. And I don''t care if you love someone else. I''m not letting you go." Liam said firmly.

    "You''re stuck with me so bear with me." Liam forced out a smile as he said.

    "How...after seeing me at my worst, how can you love me? You should be disgusted with me. You should hate me for being weak. I''m a monster¡­..ugly monster with scars. I''m¡ª"

    "Stop it!" Liam bellowed as he pulled her into his arms.

    "You can''t tell me what to do with my heart. I love you and not anyone else. You''re not an ugly monster. You''re so beautiful¡­.even at your weakest you''re the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. My baddie" Liam whispered.

    Ying Sheng''s ears rested on his loud heartbeat. She could hear how fast his heart was beating. Hearing his heartbeat calm down Ying Sheng.

    She felt an unfamiliar yet tingling feeling spread inside her.

    She didn''t know what it was but she knew she loved being in his arms. Ying Sheng has no idea why she was feeling this way.

    "Please don''t leave me...." Ying Sheng pleaded with her as she gripped his shirt tightly.

    "I won''t leave you. Never."

    Liam told her as he stroked her scalp, his fingers running gently through her hair.

    "It''s okay if you don''t love me. I will wait for you patiently."

    "How long are you nning on waiting?" Ying Sheng asked quietly.

    "Five months. Give me five months to chase you. If after five months I still haven''t been able to make you fall in love with me. I will let you go."

    Ying Sheng stiffened. Was she ready to take on this challenge? Of course, she wanted to experience how it''s like to be loved and pampered by someone.

    "Alright." She agreed.

    Liam''s lips curved into a smile. " Do you promise to stay alive during this time? Please¡­..for me."

    Ying Sheng stiffened, she didn''t know when she would snap but she was willing to try.

    "I¡ªI will try."

    **Double click to check Author''s Note

 Chapter 201 Fool for Love

    <h4>Chapter 201 Fool for Love</h4>

    Liam tenderly and gently held Ying Sheng''s wounded hand. She winced the moment he washed her hand clean, making Liam look at her for a brief moment then back at the wound he was treating.

    Ying Sheng watched him as he carefully wiped her wounded hand clean. He then got the bandage at the side and had wrapped it around her hand, Ying Sheng finding his gentleness calming andfortable--like hitting home.

    While Ying Sheng was watching him, she thought to herself how blessed she was of being with a man who treated her like a queen when she had seen herself as a perfect mess. She felt that Liam saw her as a fallen angel, a blessing from the heavens, a lonely star that was twinkling in an exploded gxy.

    She knew that the man who unconditionally loved her was right in front of her.

    Yet her heart was with someone else.

    "There. Done."

    Ying Sheng snapped out of her stupor. A small smile crept on her face as Liam stood up, Ying Sheng looking up at him as she sat on her chair.

    "Thank you."

    "Mm." Wanting to lighten up Ying Sheng''s mood, Liam smiled at her sweetly then spoke, his voice etched with concern and sweetness. "Do you want to go out and eat? I''ll treat you something to eat," he suggested, Ying Sheng, nodding once as her answer.

    "Okay."

    Liam gently pulled her by the wrist to make her stand up. Her eyes met his as he spoke again, "Then go and have a shower. I''ll wait for you."

    With that, Ying Sheng headed to the shower to prepare herself as Liam patiently waited for her.

    After Ying Sheng was done with the shower, she quickly dressed and stared at herself in the mirror. Her face was ghostly pale. She looked pretty dead on the outside and on the inside.

    She didn`t know what Liam saw in her to have fallen in love with her. She was a disgusting mess.

    Liam sighed as he got a ss of water and drank it, a sad smile soon appearing on his face. Seeing the woman he loves in such a dilemma gnawed his heart little by little like a rat nibbling on his cheese, but this slowly hurt him. Right here and then, the man vowed to himself that even though he knew that the woman he loves has someone else in her heart, he would do his best to love her.

    People may call him an idiotic man--a martyr who foolishly loves a woman, but he didn''t care.

    As long as he would make her happy with all that he is, and as long as she would still want him, he would always be there.

    Heck, even if Ying Sheng might not want him back, he would force himself back so he could still protect her.

    He wanted her to be happy and help her achieve her dreams. He had no idea how he was going to do that but he would do his best

    Ying Sheng might see herself as a wreck, but for Liam, she is everything that he ever wished for--no margins or lines could limit his random ecstatic love for her.

    ***

    After waiting for Ying Sheng for half an hour, Liam quickly prepared himself as he did not want her to wait for him for a long time. He dressed up quickly, then both of them walked out of the room to head out to the nearest restaurant they could find, the one near the hotel with an extravagant rooftop.

    As the two had settled down on the table by the window overlooking the city''s streets, Liam ordered the best meal in the restaurant as Ying Sheng stared nkly at the view outside, oblivious of her surroundings.

    Then there it was: the awkward silence.

    How can silence be so deafening? Would a person believe the other if he would say, "the silence was so loud?" If one could show a representation of that oxymoron, a figure of speech, then it would be the current situation the two are in now.

    And as it went on with each second passing by, Liam realized that he could not drink away this silence that had engulfed them into awkwardness.

    "A-ahem..."

    Liam cleared his throat, making Ying Sheng lifelessly turn to him, her face devoid of any emotion. They had been together several times already, but still, it was as if they were strangers eating a meal together for the first time!

    "Yes?"

    Liam blinked his eyes a few times, suddenly at a loss for words. He slightly furrowed his brows as Liam realized that he was starting to feel awkward and that he was now worried about letting Ying Sheng think that their time together would be boring.

    "I-I ordered chocte ice cream after the meal for your dessert," he said, stammering on his words as well. Ying Shing slightly smiled as she nodded, thanking him.

    "I appreciate you noticing the little details about my interests. Thank you."

    With his heart swooning with her appreciation, Liam grinned, feeling more confident about engaging in a conversation with her. He thought that he was now dauntless enough to speak more so he could make her feel better.

    "You have a session for therapying, right? On Monday?" Ying Sheng nodded to answer his question. "Do you want me to give you a ride and then pick you up? I could take you anywhere you want, too!"

    "Oh!" Ying Sheng smiled warmly this time, grateful that Liam was always there for her. "Sure. I''d look forward to it," she added, and at the same moment, their food had already arrived.

    The waitress served them each a Salisbury steak with delicious gravy on it. There was also a serving of mashed potatoes at the side in a small bowl to match the meal. As their drink, they were both served iced tea, already the whole presentation of their meal for lunch.

    Written by> MysticAmy

    Hiyo.....since I was busy my sister, MysticAmy helped me write my chapters please check out her book The Soul Eater`s Possession. Pleaseeee

 Chapter 202 Hurt you

    <h4>Chapter 202 Hurt you</h4>

    "I will be back soon with the ice cream for dessert once you finish the meal," the waitress said, "If you have any more concerns, do tell me, and we would do our best to satisfy our customers'' needs."

    Liam and Ying Sheng smiled at the waitress as Liam spoke for both of them, "No concerns at the moment. Thank you."

    With that, the two had already begun eating their lunch. It was at this moment that Ying Sheng realized that she was hungry, making Liam grin as he watched her enjoy her meal with every bite she took.

    He felt happy, and his heart in his chest felt warm to have finally seen the lifeless look in her eyes turn jovial.

    "Wow! That meal was amazing!"

    It was as if Ying Sheng wasn''t lifeless a while ago. Liam''s grin reached ear to ear as he saw how happy Ying Sheng was, her joy infectious as he couldn''t help but feel ecstatic for her as well.

    "That''s great!" Liam reached over the table as he slightly pinched Ying Sheng''s cheek yfully. "I enjoy anything as long as I''m with you."

    "Oh!" Ying Sheng smiled, revealing her perfect white teeth. It was her smile that waspletely different from earlier''s fake smile. "Always sweet with your words. Thank you."

    As the two still stayed in the restaurant while Ying Sheng ate her creamy, rich chocte ice cream, what the front desk clerk of the hotel said had caught their attention, especially Ying Sheng.

    "Thank you for staying over at Bevnowel Hotel, Mr. Han Xi. Please do choose our hotel again if you are considering any hotels to stay in!"

    "Mr. Han Xi? Could it be?"

    Liam and Ying Sheng''s head instinctively turned to where they heard the voice. The moment they did, Ying Sheng''s eyesnded on the familiar figure of the man she loved, making her abruptly stand up as she approached him, surprising the man.

    "H-Han Xi!"

    "Ying Sheng?"

    Han Xi''s eyes slightly furrowed as he did not expect her in the hotel''s restaurant. The restaurant was near the front desk, so she couldn''t miss him and noticed him right in an instant when he walked away.

    "Wh-what brings you here?"

    She suddenly felt shy, as if they weren''t friends. She tucked some tendrils of her hair behind her ear as Liam watched in his seat, jealousy coursing through his body to see her react this way.

    "Oh! I stayed here for the meantime since I had business here and couldn''t get home right away," he answered, a smile appearing on his face. "I could see you''re with someone. I hope you enjoy your day," he said, then he started to leave.

    Ying Sheng felt a sudden rush in her blood as she saw his retreating figure. With always being stood up by him, she caught him by the wrist, stopping him in his tracks.

    "W-wait," she said, stammering with her words. "Can we talk for a while, please?"

    Seeing and sensing the urgency in her voice, Han Xi cocked his head to the side in wonder, yet he nodded, giving her a yes.

    "Sure. Is it okay, though? Someone is waiting for you, so--"

    "It will just be quick," she interrupted him as she turned to face Liam. "It will just be quick. I''ll be right back, okay?"

    As she was about to leave, Liam abruptly stood up from his seat as he grabbed her arm, making Ying Sheng wince as Liam tightened his grip. His eyes reflected jealousy and, at the same time, sadness as he looked at Han Xi and Ying Sheng back and forth.

    Looking at Han Xi now, Liam felt cold as he startedparing himself to him. He began to feel insecure as the thought of Ying Sheng liking the other man lingered in his thoughts. He wondered what Han Xi could have that he doesn''t--that''s why she loved him.

    "Liam." Ying Sheng had said his name, snapping him out of his thoughts. "It will be quick... I promise."

    The man hesitated a bit before letting go, but Liam just nodded. He did not say a word as his lips turned into a tight line, his hands at the sides balling into tight fists as he watched Han Xi and Ying Sheng use the elevator to go to the rooftop for some privacy.

    ---

    With Ying Sheng drowning in her thoughts as she thought to herself that it was now or never to confess her feelings towards Han Xi, the trip to the rooftop had ended rather quickly.

    "We''re here," Han Xi said, snapping Ying Sheng out of her thoughts. Ying Sheng smiled as the two walked out of the elevator, then out of the rooftop, the breeze instantly kissing their skin.

    It was quiet for a few seconds. With Ying Sheng finally alone with the man she adores, she felt her heart pounding in her chest as if begging for its release. Breaking the silence, Han Xi talked once more, Ying Sheng holding her breath, nervous.

    As Han Xi was scanning the woman who had only worn a ck turtle neck sweater and blue fitted navy jeans that had entuated her slender legs, the man''s eyebrows furrowed when he noticed something different. He observed that Ying Sheng had her hands wrapped in a bandage, making him grab her arm in worry as he inspected it.

    "What is this? What happened? Were you injured? Did that man with you hurt you?"

    "No!"

    Ying Sheng could sense the worry in Han Xi''s voice, but when she heard from him that he thought Liam had hurt her, she had to stand up to him.

    "Liam could never do that!"

    Her voice came out strong, slightly surprising Han Xi as he blinked his eyes at her a few times in surprise.

    "Then what about that bandaged hand? What is it about then if he didn''t hurt you?"

    Ying Sheng averted her gaze from him, not wanting to answer his question. She released a sigh as she ignored answering him, swaying Han Xi from the question thrown at her.

    "I came here to talk about something else," she mumbled, enough for the man to hear.

    Written by MysticAmy. PLease check out her book. hehehehe She is good right? She hasn`t even read the book up to this point but magically she was able to write the chapters hahaha

 Chapter 203 Goodbye Kiss

    <h4>Chapter 203 Goodbye Kiss</h4>

    "What is it that you want to talk about then if you don''t want to talk about your wound?"

    The moment he asked, Ying Sheng took a deep breath. She then looked at Han Xi, slightly surprising him with how serious her eyes looked when she locked gazes with him.

    Ying Sheng''s eyes were fiery with passion and resolve. At the same moment, Han Xi''s body stiffened to have seen an unusual expression on her face, finding her beautiful right before his eyes.

    "Han Xi, I have been in love you for a couple of years now."

    Han Xi''s eyes widened in surprise when he heard this, his mouth slightly agape. He was at a loss for words, and when he was about to speak, Ying Sheng held her hand up to stop him, expressing her feelings out now that she finally had the chance to.

    "What?"

    One word... one word, and it was all he could say after hearing Ying Sheng''s sudden outburst of confession. Her eyes had not left his as she took a step closer, making Han Xi take a few steps back, not expecting her sudden change of attitude.

    Ying Sheng recalled how Han Xi was always there for her. of course that was before he got a girlfriend. It had made the pace of her heart quicken as she instinctively held on to her chest as if asking for her heart to calm down.

    "I''m grateful that you were always there for me when I was at my weakest. Because of that, you became my great friend, but unknowingly, I found myself falling for you."

    Han Xi''s heart skipped a beat as he heard Ying Sheng`s words. He had not expected receiving a confession from a woman whom he considered as a friend. Despite being in a rtionship with a woman that he doesn''t love, he had to admit that Ying Sheng''s words effectively tugged his heart.

    "Ying Sheng, I--"

    "I''m not done."

    Han Xi fell silent as he continued listening to Ying Sheng, expressing her feelings for him. She looked at him for a few seconds before she continued, a scornful expression appearing on her face.

    "I was hurt every time you stood me up, but I have to put up with it as I forced myself to be okay with it because I thought that I''d rather you be there with someone else if that would make you happy."

    Han Xi''s lips turned into a tight line as Ying Sheng''s gaze continued to pierce through his body like a de, her words heavy as she expressed the pain she had dealt with because of him.

    "I was about to tell you that I love you, but with you suddenly introducing your girlfriend to me, it fell like a bomb, you know? It hurt me pretty much, so I did not dare tell you. It broke my heart, knowing that the guy that I love so much was in love with someone else."

    Ying Sheng stood as she made her sudden deration of love. It was a grand speech that she had been thinking for who knows how long because she said her feelings aloud, the sudden silence that came over for a visity on her skin like poison.

    ''Speak, Han Xi,'' the girl internally pleaded, ''Speak now or my heart is going to burst! Break the silence, I beg you!''

    And so he did. It was as if he had heard Ying Sheng''s thoughts out loud, making him speak.

    "Wow, I..." Han Xi ran his hand through his hair, obviously at a loss for words. He did not expect Ying Sheng''s confession at all! "To be honest, I am surprised andpletely at a loss for words. Ying Sheng, I..."

    He did not know what to say. He did not expect that a woman like Ying Sheng would love him. Even with the beautiful girl standing right before him, he felt nothing but surprise as he looked at her, unsure of what to say so that she could not hurt her feelings.

    He wondered what if Ying Sheng had told him about her feelings earlier. Would the circumstances between them have changed? Would he rather have her than his current girlfriend now?

    With Han Xi shaking himself from his thoughts, his eyebrows furrowed as a question escaped from his lips, "Why? Why did you decide to tell me this now?"

    A sad smile appeared on her face as her eyes turned ssy, tears forming in her eyes as she spoke, but she tried her best to keep her tears at bay.

    "Because I wouldn''t want to live with regret without telling you how I feel, Han Xi."

    The way she said his name, Han Xi had to admit with himself that there was love when she said it. A lot of women had said his name, but with Ying Sheng saying it, even though she said his name countless times, too, it had a nice ring to it.

    It was like music--a symphony to his ears.

    "Ying Sheng, I--"

    "Hush..."

    Ying Sheng had put her index finger on his mouth, silencing him. "They say if the person you love is happy with someone else, one should learn how to let go. And I''m doing that now."

    She forced herself tough as she felt a lump on her throat, wanting to cry, her heart in shambles like a wrecking ball had bulldozed it, pulverizing it into powder.

    "I''ve spent my whole life hoping for others to love me, but now I''m letting go. I know it won''t be easy, but I know that I have to love myself first."

    "Ying Sheng... I--"

    She interrupted him once more. She then held his left cheek with her right hand as she slowly inched in, closing her eyes as she softly nted a kiss on his lips, indicating her goodbye.

    Han Xi was surprised, but he reciprocated the kiss. He had pulled Ying Sheng towards him by the waist, without him knowing that the kiss was meant for Ying Sheng to let him go.

    It was their first kiss together, but Han Xi had felt differentpared to when he had moments with his girlfriend. Because of this, he started questioning himself why he had never thought of being in a rtionship with Ying Sheng.

    Written by MysticAmy

 Chapter 204 Heartbreak

    <h4>Chapter 204 Heartbreak</h4>

    As their lips had not parted each other, a tear had been so stubborn as it conspired against its owner, escaping from Ying Sheng''s eyes. It was just one tear, but soon, its brothers and sisters followed, the tears flowing on her cheeks like rivulets.

    Little did they know, though, that they had one audience who had secretly followed them as if watching the climax of a story that had led his heart to quickly fall on the slope of Freytag''s pyramid, leading to its resolution.

    From afar was a man named Liam, who was dumbfounded. It was as if he was struck by lightning as he came at the wrong moment of seeing the woman he loves kissing the man who had broke her heart into teeny-tiny pieces.

    His hands at the sides turned into tight fists as the organ in his chest ached, jealousy coursing through his veins as he wondered to himself how he could make her turn to him instead of the other.

    Right here and then, it was then that Liam wished that he would be Han Xi that Ying Sheng loved if that''s what it takes to make her happy.

    It was as if a bucket of cold water had fallen on top of Liam, his body stiffening as he watched the woman he loves kissed the man who had broke her heart. His eyes were wide, and his mouth was agape, his hands at the side trembling as his heart crumbled in its shelter.

    He decided to follow her after waiting for five minutes because he couldn''t help but worry about her. Ying Sheng had broken down in front of him, and with her alone with him, he couldn''t just sit down and let this be!

    But he was dumbfounded--bbergasted--as he saw them kiss. Han Xi even dared to pull her towards him when he has a girlfriend!

    He wanted right here and then to pull her away. He liked to scream, to shout, to voice out all of his frustrations as he saw this scene right in front of him, but Liam knew if he would, she would hate him.

    ''I need to leave... I need to leave, or else I won''t help myself!''

    Liam''s feet were nted on the ground as if it were the roots of a nt. He gritted his teeth as he tried his best to turn his body for him not to look at them having their moment. He then rushed to the elevator, and the moment its doors closed, his ssy eyes released his tears, making his vision blurry as he put his hand over his eyes to cover his face.

    Liam silently sobbed as he waited for the elevator to stop at the first floor, where he promised to wait for Ying Sheng. His body felt cold, and his body couldn''t stop trembling as his sorrow took a toll on his body. The moment the doors opened, the other clients of the hotel furrowed their brows when they saw the man''s red eyes, wondering why he was crying.

    Shaking himself from his thoughts, Liam cleared his throat as he quickly made past the crowd that was waiting outside, "E-excuse me.."

    Liam strode towards the male restroom. The moment he entered, he quickly washed his face with cold water, making some parts of his shirt wet because of how he rushed to wash the tears away from his face. The moment he raised his body from the sink, he saw his reflection on the mirror before him, his eyes staring back on his own.

    ''Ying Sheng loves Han Xi, Liam... she loves him,'' he thought as he talked to his reflection with his mind. ''But even though she loves him, I won''t give up... ever.''

    Ying Sheng asked him to stay. He promised her that he needed five months, and he would do just that. The kiss that they shared may have surprised him--it may have made him waver for a second about his feelings towards her, almost scaring him.

    But he knew he had to man-up. He knew that to win a woman''s, one must continue to fight if he wanted her to love him.

    It made him remember what he read when he was browsing the inte. Not all the things found on the inte were true and correct, but it was rtable.

    He read that the reason why men would be the ones courting women was that women are fickle-minded. Men can make women change their minds, which is why it was always men that would make the efforts to win thedy''s heart.

    His grip on the sink tightened as he kept staring at his pathetic self, who was crying moments ago. He scoffed, then he stared right back in his own eyes reflected on the mirror as if challenging himself.

    "The real challenge is about to begin, Liam," he said to himself, mustering up his confidence. "Keep it together. Ying Sheng needs you."

    With that, he heaved a sigh as he stepped outside the male''s restroom and went back on his seat where he had been with Ying Sheng moments ago.

    The moment he sat down, his heart raced nervously as the thought of them being for a long time worried him. He promised himself seconds ago to be confident but now that he came back and there was still no sign of them, his heart sank, wondering if things had gone great between them.

    ''What if that happened? What if it did happen great between them? Would Ying Sheng throw me away? Would she no longer need me? Would I have no chance at all?''

    Liam''s lips turned into a tight line as he stared nkly at the empty ss on the table.

    "No," he mumbled to himself only he could hear. "Stop thinking negatively, Liam, and wait for what''s toe. Only then will you decide on what you''re going to do next," he spoke to himself, familiar footsteps now sounding closer as he instinctively turned his head to look at where it came.

    Written by MysticAmy

 Chapter 205 Self Love

    <h4>Chapter 205 Self Love</h4>

    And then, there he saw: the woman he loved. Her eyes red, a small smile appearing on her face as she looked at Liam. Oddly, Han Xi was not around, making him wonder why she had gone back without him following her. Was he left alone on the rooftop?

    "H-hey..." Liam awkwardly stood up, his knee hitting the table, making Ying Sheng slightly giggle as she saw his clumsiness.

    "A-are you alright?" Liam then got his handkerchief from his pocket as he reached out to her face to wipe her tears that had stained her cheeks.

    "No... but I''ll do my best to be okay. Not now, but soon," she answered in all honesty, her hand holding Liam''s hand that was on her face. "I confessed to him."

    "Oh..." There was sadness in his tone, but still, he forced out a smile, not wanting to show his pain in front of Ying Sheng. "I see," he tly added.

    Ying Sheng then held his hand as she intertwined her fingers with his. A smile that reflected freedom appeared then on her face, as she beamed at Liam, her wordsforting his worried heart.

    "And I decided to let him go so I could focus on loving myself to pick myself up again."

    "Oh!" Now Liam''s reaction could no longer mask the sudden excitement he had felt hearing her words. "Th-that''s good! I-I mean... self-love, I mean. That''s big!"

    Ying Shingughed out loud as she listened to Liam stammering in his excited voice. She knew that the man tried his best to mask his excitement so that he could look cool for her.

    "You''d help me, won''t you?"

    "Is that even a question needing an answer? Of course!"

    Liam squeezed her hand that was in his as he smiled sweetly at the woman he vowed to make her fall for him.

    "I''ll always be there for you. I promise. Even when you don''t need me to."

    With that, the two had left the hotel as Liam felt in his heart a glimmer of hope of making him win over Ying Sheng''s heart.

    ******************

    "Popsicle!" Ying Sheng suddenly eximed excitedly in the car making Liam turn to look at her. He followed her gaze and saw her staring at a man selling popsicles.

    "Do you want one?" Liam asked with an amused look on his face.

    "Yes!" Ying Sheng answered quickly with her eyes swimming with excitement.

    "It''s been such a long time since I had one." Ying Sheng exined with a small pout on her face, making her look like a child.

    Liam sighed helplessly and parked the car.

    "Okay, wait here. I will park the car and buy us some."

    Ying Sheng beamed when she heard him and nodded.

    Liam smiled and opened the door to buy them the popsicles. Few minutester, he appeared holding two popsicles. Liam gave her one, "Here."

    "Thank you!" Ying Sheng said as she began to devour her popsicle.

    A peaceful silence fell between them as they both licked their popsicle with a smile on their face.

    Ying Sheng stole a nce at Liam and her eyes met his. She stiffened at being caught but the emotions in Liam''s eyes made her more shocked.

    Ying Sheng cleared her throat and looked away.

    "So¡­." She trailed off.

    "How are you nning on making me fall in love with you?"

    Liam blushed when he heard her question. Honestly he doesn''t even know the answer to that question. He will have to ask Lucas for help.

    "Um...I¡­.you have to wait to find out."

    Ying Sheng chuckled when she heard him.

    "Hmm.." She mumbled and turned her gaze back on the streets.

    "Are you sure you won''t give up on me?" Ying Sheng asked nervously.

    "No. Never." Liam replied instantly.

    "Never huh?" Ying Sheng''s lips curved into a slight smile as she gazed outside the window.

    "What are you thinking about?" Liam queried as he stared at her beautiful face.

    "When you fell in love with me." Ying Sheng said as she turned to look at him.

    "The first time I saw you?" Liam confessed shyly.

    "Ever since I saw you, you were stuck in my head and I knew you were the one." Liam said softly as he gazed into her eyes.

    Ying Sheng searched his eyes for confirmation of his words and the emotions there nearly consumed her. She stared at him in a trance as she felt her heart beating.

    She has never seen so much emotion in a person''s eyes before. Ying Sheng had not felt so loved, so wanted or needed in her life before. Never.

    "Why are you so good to me?" Ying Sheng blurted out.

    "Because¡­.I want to see you happy. Seeing you happy does things to my heart. Good things of course."

    Ying Sheng chortled and shook her head. She always sees a different side of Liam every day. At first she thought he was a sweet innocent guy but now she knew he was much more than that.

    He was just a shy cute good boy¡­...now he was her strength, her best friend and the light in her dark little world.

    Liam noticed Ying Sheng''s gaze on him, making him feel conscious as his brows almost connected, wondering if something was on his face to make her look at him.

    "I-is there something wrong? Something on my face," he asked consciously, making Ying Sheng giggle as she smiled at him, the man worriedly touching his face if something was on it.

    "No, nothing... I just wonder what I could have done to make you love me," she said her thoughts aloud, answering Liam''s question.

    "Oh! W-well..."

    Liam did not expect what Ying Sheng said. He smiled embarrassingly, but still, he answered her question truthfully, not wanting Ying Sheng to doubt his feelings for her.

    "It''s like what the quotation says, I guess."

    "Oh?" Ying Sheng cocked her head to the side in wonder. "What quotation?"

    Liam smiled at her as he said the quote aloud, his words traveling through her veins on the way to her heart to pull her heartstrings.

    "Meeting you was fate. Being your friend was a choice. But falling in love with you, I have no control over."

 Chapter 206 Drama

    <h4>Chapter 206 Drama</h4>

    Yan Mei''s eyes looked focused as she looked at the documents prepared for the uingunch of herpany''s new collection. Her eyebrows slightly furrowed as she carefully read its contents, making sure that everything is in ce so they would notmit any mistakes during theunch.

    "Okay, done," she mumbled as she put the documents done, stretching her arms to rx her muscles as she released a sigh of relief.

    At the same moment, she heard a knock on the door. "Come in," she instructed, making Su Bei walk in with a smile stered on her face.

    "Are you done? How''s everything?"

    Su Bei closed the door as she stood up beside Yan Mei, making her look up to meet her secretary''s gaze.

    "Good," Yan Mei answered, her eyebrow slightly arched up as she saw a smile on Su Bei''s face.

    "Look at you! You seem happy," shemented, Yan Mei''s lips curling into a teasing smirk. "Are you excited for your date with Leng Shao tonight?--you being expectant that you won''t be single any longer?"

    "Oh, stop it, you..." Su Bei blushed and rolled her eyes at her, making Yan Mei giggle.

    "With the documents prepared, why not we have a break and go shopping for some clothes? For the date?" Yan Mei suggested as she yfully tapped her fingers on the table.

    "Sure, why not?" Su Bei beamed and agreed.

    Yan Mei stood up in a heartbeat, not hesitating.

    "All we have to do is wait for theunch, anyway. Let''s go to the mall."

    The two decided to go to the mall during their break. They informed the other employees of the other things to do before the two left the remaining tasks in their care. Since the mall is just near thepany, the two decided to walk.

    The moment Yan Mei and Su Bei entered the mall, their senses were overloaded. There were a lot of designer clothes in the mall--the messages carefully styled in images to seduce consumers as their eyes wandered. Even people who were just window-shopping would be attracted to buy in an instant.

    Even nned buyers would be impulsive buyers if they stay and look for too long, making the advertisement effective!

    "Which shop would you want to visit? Chanel? Louis Vuitton?" Yan Mei asked Su Bei.

    Su Bei looked around a little embarrassed. She has never stepped foot in such a big mall before. Su Bei will always stared through the windows with a dreamy look of owing one of these luxurious brands.

    As if sensing her friend''s difort, Yan Mei grabbed Su Bei''s hand and led her to the Chanel store.

    Not far off, a woman who had her jade ck long her tied in a ponytail, wearing a simple day dress that had entuated her pure-white lotus aura, was seen window shopping in front of Chanel.

    As Su Bei and Yan Mei were walking and with her asking which shops to visit, the two had suddenly stopped in their tracks when Yan Mei noticed a familiar figure.

    ''Isn''t¡­ that Tang Wei,'' Yan Mei thought as she remembered how troublesome she was. She can still remember her words at the g some months ago.

    "Do you think he loves you? Wait for his ex toe back." Tang Wei''s wordse echoed in Yan Mei''s head.

    Even though she had act nonchntly back then, Yan Mei had to admit she was hurt and afraid. She never got to ask Lei Zhao about this famous ex of his.

    "What''s wrong," Su Bei asked, Yan Mei''s eyebrows slightly twitching as she heaved a small sigh.

    "Nothing. Let''s walk straight and go to Louis Vuitton instead. I''m not in the mood for any drama.," Yan Mei said, Su Bei blinking her eyes, not understanding why, but she still agreed.

    "Okay, then."

    As the two continued walking straight, it was coincidental that Tang Wei turned her body to walk in the opposite direction. The moment she did, her eyes locked with Yan Mei''s, making Tang Wei''s calm demeanor change into something different from her usual pure aura.

    Malice.

    "Oh... if it isn''t Miss Yan."

    "It''s Mrs. Lei¡­.who are you?" Yan Mei''s lips curved into a sardonic smile as she asked Tang Wei calmly despite Tang Wei''s cold voice towards her. Yan Mei kept herposure, not affected by her because if she would, she would show how immature she was for wasting her time on a woman who is not worthy of her attention.

    "Miss Yan...you have forgotten me already? Is it because I look more beautiful now?"

    Su Bei scoffed when she heard Tang Wei. This woman is really shameless.

    "Hmm¡­.yeah very beautiful." Yan Mei nodded as she said.

    Tang Wei straighten her shoulders as a smirk appeared on her lips. Of course, she looked beautiful. She had taken time to work on herself ever since her encounter with Yan Mei at the g. She even tools trip outside the country to see a dermatologist.

    Doesn''t Lei Zhao like Yan Mei because she is pretty? Then she will invest in her skin to look more beautiful than Yan Mei. Maybe Lei Zhao would finally notice her.

    "It just¡­.yourck of brains overshadows your beauty. Such a pity." Yan Mei sighed as she said.

    Tang Wei stiffened when she heard Yan Mei.

    "You¡­" Anger coursed through Tang Wei when she heard Yan Mei. Did she just call her stupid?!

    "Excuse us," Yan Mei then added, not wanting to waste any time because she knew that Tang Wei would impulsively cause problems. "My friend and I have some errands to attend to."

    With her heels cking against the mall''s beautifully tiled floor, Tang Wei turned her body to look at Yan Mei''s retreating figure.

    She felt her blood course through her veins as she felt angry at the thought of her being Lei Zhao''s wife when Tang Wei worked so hard to get his attention even though she failed countless times to make him turn his gaze to her.

 Chapter 207 Stupid

    <h4>Chapter 207 Stupid</h4>

    "How dare you turn your back against me!?"

    With her words loud, even other bystanders looked to watch what was happening. With her making a scene, Yan Mei sighed as she turned her back, her hand flipping her hair to the back in the process.

    ''What now?''

    Su Bei creased her brows as she held her head high, wondering as to why this woman was attacking her friend.

    Tang Wei walked towards them in quick strides, making her catch up with them.

    "Do you dare to say what you said again?!" Tang Wei roared angrily.

    "What? That you''re stupid? Stupid... stupid...stupid" Yan Mei taunted Tang Wei as she crossed her hands across her chest with a bored look on her face.

    Tang Wei blew out in agitation. She wouldn''t lose this fight. How can this woman keep her cool?

    "I bet you''re here to buy clothes to seduce Lei Zhao," she said, Yan Mei''s eyebrows creasing as she felt annoyed with Tang Wei spouting nonsense. She even felt the urge tough at her, but she kept her coldposure up, intimidating her.

    "Oh?" A smirk appeared on Yan Mei''s face, ying with her for a while. "What else? Are you done?"

    "Tsk!"

    Tang Wei clicked her tongue as her hands turned into tight fists, her fingernails digging in her palm, almost making it bleed.

    She remembered how much she loved Lei Zhao. She remembered how she worked hard to get his attention. Even though she wasn''t able to, until now, knowing that he is married, she wouldn''t want to give up on him yet!

    Tang Wei knows that she usually has a calm aura, but every time she sees Yan Mei, she always wanted tosh out her hands on her, ripping her hair out off her scalp because she stole what was most important to her.

    ''Because of her, she stole Lei Zhao away from me! He was mine! Lei Zhao''s mine from the start! I loved him first!''

    With not hearing any reply from her, Yan Mei''s eyes turned nonchnt as she scoffed, looking at her condescendingly.

    "Goodbye, Tang Wei."

    As she was about to walk away from her again, Tang Wei bit her lip before mumbling to herself, but it was enough for Yan Mei and Su Bei to hear.

    "You are nothing but a slut."

    It was as if a twig of a branch within Yan Mei snapped, making her turn her body to face Tang Wei in an instant.

    "What did you say?"

    Tang Wei felt threatened by Yan Mei''s words, almost making her body tremble as her words traveled in her ears, chilling her to the bones.

    "Lei Zhao meant to be mine, but because of you, you blinded him with your looks!"

    Yan Mei scoffed as she rolled her eyes at her.

    "You never learn how to stop, do you?"

    Tang Wei''s lips curled with malice. She stood her ground as she acted confident, straightening her posture to mask her intimidation towards the woman in front of her.

    "Just you wait... once his exes back, he will leave you, and you''re going left with nothing. You''re just a whore he is sleeping with to pass the time!"

    With her words finally hitting Yan Mei like a bull''s eye during a gaming session of darts, she raised her hand unexpectedly, and in a blink of an eye, it hadnded hard on Tang Wei''s face, making her face scarlet red in an instant.

    "Will you not shut up? Do you want me to cut off your tongue next, then feed it to the dogs, hmm?"

    Yan Mei said dangerously.

    Tang Wei held her cheeks with her eyes widened. ''She pped her! This bitch pped her¡­.''

    Ever since she was adopted by the Lu family she has never suffered such humiliation. Everyone showers her with praise and wants to be her friend but this woman, she pped her!

    Tang Wei raised her hands to p Yan Mei, but her hands were held before it can reach Yan Mei.

    The person holding her hands tightened her hold on her hands making her hands turned red.

    Su Bei scrutinized Tang Wei from head to toe and frowned in disgust. How dare this woman raise her hands on her friend?

    "You...who are you? How dare you?!" Tang Wei bellowed as her red eyes gazed at Su Bei with so much hate.

    "Just a friend¡­" Su Bei loossened her grip on Tang Wei''s wrist and she stumbled back awkwardly.

    "This should be thest time you ever raise your hands on my friend again or I will break every bones in your hands understand?!" Su Bei said coldly, making Tang Wei stepped back in fright.

    Her eyes were red and she looked like a helpless kid being bullied by adults.

    The people around couldn''t help but began to gossip when they saw themotion going on. Yan Mei rubbed her temples and took a deep breath.

    She had an image to maintain and she really couldn''t handle any scandals at the moment. She took out her phone and dialed a number.

    "Wifey¡­" Lei Zhao said excitedly the the moment the call was connected. He rarely sees his wife nowadays due to how busy she was at thepany. She leaves in the morning andes homete.

    "Lei Zhao¡­." Yan Mei whiney the moment Lei Zhao answered the call. Hearing his wife, Lei Zhao couldn''t help but raised his brows.

    Tang Wei stiffened when she heard Yan Mei. Did she really call Lei Zhao?

    "What is wrong?" He asked softly with his voiceced with concern.

    "Someone is bullying your wife. I''m afraid by tonight, your wife''s face will be stered on every magazine."

    Yan Mei said dramatically. "Also, my hands hurt¡­."

    "What? What happened? Where are you? Are you okay?"

    Yan Mei heard Lei Zhao''s anxious voice apanied by shuffling noise. It seems he was in a hurry to get to her.

    "I went for shopping with Su Bei and met Miss Tang. She said you don''t love and I''m just a slut you''re sleeping with to pass the time¡­." Yan Mei intentionally sniffled like she was crying.

    "W-when your exes you will dump me. Lei Zhao how can you be so cruel! I''m just your whore."

 Chapter 208 Deadly poison

    <h4>Chapter 208 Deadly poison</h4>

    Tang Wei opened her mouth when she heard Yan Mei. Honestly, she was not expecting the woman to call Lei Zhao.

    Who calls her husband toin when there is an argument between two women? Tang Wei knew Lei Zhao wouldn''t let her go. now everything was going to get ruined.

    Tang Wei knew no woman could stomach her husband still having feelings for her ex so she had intentionally said these words to rile Yan Mei''s up.

    Her heart began to race at the overwhelming thoughts that kept flooding her brains. Lei Zhao wasn''t supposed to know she told Yan Mei about his ex. Now he would hate her and it''s all Yan Mei''s fault.

    Dead silence fell on the other side of the phone. Lei Zhao froze when he heard Yan Mei. Ever since his ex left him, her name has been a taboo in the family.

    He never mentioned her because he knew how insecure his wife is and how words can affect her but this, Tang Wei¡­..dare to call his wife a slut?

    He has ignored her all this while because of his aunt but this stupid woman wouldn''t stop, would she?

    "Where are you?" Lei Zhao asked in a lowly deadly tone.

    "Guvvy Mall." Yan Mei mumbled. Lei Zhao frowned when he realized he couldn''t go there. From where he is to that ce it was a two hours drive.

    "Okay, wait for a while. I will send someone to solve this issue. If I say I wille there it will take a while."

    "Oh¡ªalright." Yan Mei said in a low tone, disappointment evident in her voice. She realized Lei Zhao didn''t rify Tang Wei''s usation.

    ''So was it true?'' Her heart couldn''t help but ache in her chest. Now she was more curious about this ex of Lei Zhao. Was she pretty?''

    "Wifey¡­." Lei Zhao called her softly.

    "Hmm¡­" Yan Mei replied absentmindedly. She didn''t know why but her heart felt really ufortable. No matter how much she told herself that she was just an ex and she is Mrs. Lei now.

    "I love you, you know that right?" Lei Zhao asked, afraid of any misunderstanding. He has worked hard to make his wife fall for him. Now he wouldn''t let any parasite destroy his marriage.

    "Hmm.." Yan Mei bit her lips.

    "I have to go. See you at home." Without waiting for his response, Yan Mei hung up the call.

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh as he stared at his phone. He was really anxious about what Yan Mei is thinking right now.

    He quickly sent her a text message,

    Lei Zhao: Wifey¡­.we will talk when we get home. I will tell you anything you want to know. I love you, Hermosa.

    Yan Mei stared at the message and a soft smile curved on her lips.

    "How old are you? Five?" Tang Wei scoffed as she chuckled.

    "You cannot be an independent woman. Why do you have to bother Lei Zhao with such petty things? Woman up."

    Yan Mei looked up at Tang Wei and shrugged, "Miss Tang wouldn''t know what wife doting means. Such a shame."

    "You.."

    "Mrs. Lei!" Yan Mei turned around and saw a fat man in a suit running towards them with about ten security guards behind him. He was sweating profusely as he wiped his forehead with his handkerchief.

    He bowed respectfully once he reached Yan Mei.

    "I''m manager Yu, I''m really sorry for the inconveniences. Mr. Lei has already exined everything to us on the phone, so we will take care of everything."

    Tang Wei balled her fist when she heard the manager. All of this, is supposed to hers. The respect, the title¡ªshe deserves to be Mrs. Lei!

    "Mm... make sure you don''t allow bugs inside your mall next time. Who knows the damages they might cause."

    "Yan Mei! Who are you calling a bug?"

    Yan Mei ignored Tang Wei and turned to look at the manager.

    "Should I buy an insecticide spray for you to kill the bug before you send it out?"

    The manager shivered from Yan Mei''s cold look. If he thought Lei Zhao was scary on the phone. His wife was even scarier.

    The manager turned to the security guards beside him and nodded. Seeing the signal from their boss, two of them grabbed Tang Wei.

    "You...let go of me. Do you know who I am?! You dare touch me?!" Tang Wei roared as she tried to break free but the security guards tightened their hold on her. Bruising her white skin in the process.

    Yan Mei lips curved into a devilish smirk as she strolled towards Tang Wei. She bent down her head since she was a head taller than Tang Wei and whispered in her ears.

    "Remember what I told you?" Yan Mei asked in a chilly voice which caused Tang Wei''s body to shiver in fear. For some weird reason she felt like someone had poured a bucket of cold water on her. Her body was extremely cold.

    "W-what?" She stiffened as she stared at Yan Mei in fright.

    "Nothing cane between me and my husband. I will kill anyone whoes between us. Even you,Miss Tang. So next time, think twice before you approach me. I can be a deadly poison. But if you want a taste¡­"

    Yan Mei pulled away as a sinister smile graced her lips.

    Tang Wei stared at Yan Mei in a trance. She can bet with her life that something was seriously wrong with her body. Why was it so cold suddenly? And it seems she couldn''t talk too. No matter how hard she tried to speak nothing wasing out of her mouth.

    Tang Wei widened her eyes in pure fear. Who was this woman?!

    "Take her away." Yan Mei said in a monotonous tone.

    Tang Wei shook her head aggressively as she struggled to break free from the security guards.

    "Miss Tang, you have been forbidden by the boss to never set foot in any of our malls again." The manager dered.

    Tang Wei''s face paled when she heard the manager. How can she never set foot here again or any Guvvy mall? How would she blend in or show off to her friends?!

    The security guards dragged her away as the people around threw contempt nces at her. Tang Wei''s face burned with shame.

    ''This is all because of Yan Mei! That witch. She wouldn''t let her go.''

 Chapter 209 Wildest dream

    <h4>Chapter 209 Wildest dream</h4>

    "We are sorry, Mrs. Lei for the inconveniences. Our mall would give you a 30% discount on everything you buy. We hope to see you again."

    The manager bowed as he apologized to Yan Mei.

    Yan Mei nodded indifferently and started walking away with Su Bei behind her.

    "Who was that?" Su Bei asked once they were alone.

    Yan Mei heaved a sigh, "Just a delusional bitch who thinks she can destroy my marriage with Lei Zhao by causing misunderstanding. We have been through a lot to let some petty misunderstanding ruin us."

    Yan Mei shrugged as she said. Even though she was curious about this ex of Lei Zhao, she was no way hurt or angry by him hiding it from her. Yan Mei knew he probably had his reasons.

    But of course, she wouldn''t let the chance to tease Lei Zhao go. Yan Mei knew Lei Zhao might probably be looking at time right now. He was counting the seconds just to see her and exin.

    If there is anything Yan Mei loved about Lei Zhao, it was how honest he was and how much he trusts her. Something Wang Lucks.

    Thinking about Wang Lu, Yan Mei brows scrunched together. It''s been a long time since theirst meeting but he hasn''t done anything.

    Yan Mei found his quietness fishy. What was he nning? Or he has moved on finally.

    "Yan Mei¡­.are you listening to me?" Su Bei''s voice snapped Yan Mei out of her thoughts.

    "Mmm...what did you say?" She asked her friend as they made their way to the Chanel store.

    "I said it''s good that you and Lei Zhao trust each other. It''s rare to see that among couples nowadays." Su Bei smiled at her friend.

    "Mmm...well he hasn''t done anything for me not to trust him."

    The moment they entered the shop, an employee greeted them.

    "Hello, please wee to our store. How may we help you?"

    Yan Mei turned towards Su Bei''s direction.

    "It''s okay, we will look through the clothes by ourselves." Yan Mei said quietly.

    The employee nodded, "Alright then, please if you need anything. Let us know."

    After saying this, she went to stand at the corner stealing nces at Yan Mei and Su Bei. She was curious about the women who could make their manager sound so nervous on the phone.

    Their manager had called beforehand to warn them not to disrespect these women. Who were these women?

    Yan Mei pulled Su Bei to the ce where the clothes were located. After rummaging through piles of dressers that looked too expensive to buy, Yan Mei bought a couple of dresses for Su Bei.

    The dresses were so beautiful and looked so luxurious that Su Bei felt unworthy of wearing them. She had rejected them at first when Yan Mei gave it to her to try on butter she epted due to Yan Mei''s persuasion.

    After paying for the dresses, they quickly left the mall. Because Yan Mei wanted Su Bei to rx before her big night, they closed from work early today.

    As soon as they got to Su Bei''s apartment, Yan Mei and Su Bei started preparing for Su Bei''s date that evening.

    Su Bei took a shower as Yan Mei prepared her outfit.

    Waiting for the water to get hot, Su Bei couldn''t help but look at herself in the mirror. She had to admit she was quite nervous about her date tonight. What if he doesn''t like her?

    Taking a deep breath, Su Bei stripped her towel and stood under the shower. She closed her eyes, enjoying the hot water falling on her skin. Grabbing a handful of her favoritevender scented shampoo, Su Bei massaged into her hair.

    After pampering herself under the shower, Su Bei turned it off. She wrapped the towel around herself and went back to her room.

    In her room, Yan Mei was standing there with a hand on her hip and the other holding her chin. Her brows furrowed into deep thought as she stared at the three outfits on the bed.

    Knowing Ling Shao, Yan Mei knew he would wear a suit so she needed something that wouldpliment Su Bei''s body . Yan Mei wanted her to be simple yet elegant .

    Suddenly Yan Mei beamed as she selected one of the dresses on the bed. She couldn''t wait to see Leng Shao''s face when he saw Su Bei.

    "Are you done?" Su Bei finally spoke, making Yan Mei turn to look in her direction.

    "Yes, I''m done. Now let''s make you the prettiest woman tonight!".

    Yan Mei squealed excitedly. She couldn''t help but feel like a teenager again.

    ************

    "Wow¡­.I didn''t know you were this pretty!" Yan Mei gushed as she stared at her friend. Su Bei looked really gorgeous. She could barely recognize herself in the mirror.

    "Yeah¡­..I have to admit I look like those models for cosmeticmercials." Su Bei said which caused them tough.

    Su Bei blinked away the tears that were threatening to fall down. Never in her wildest dreams did she think she will wear such expensive clothes one day.

    "Thank you, Yan Mei! You made me feel like Cindere tonight."

    Su Bei pulled back and looked into the mirror. She blew out air and let out a nervous chuckle.

    "D-do you think he would like me?" Su Bei asked as she yed with her fingers.

    Yan Mei grabbed her hand and gave it a small squeeze.

    "Of course he would! Look at you¡­.you look so beautiful. He would definitely like you. If he doesn''t it is his loss to let go of such a gorgeous woman like you."

    Yan Mei said as she twirled her friend around causing Su Bei to giggle.

    Suddenly the sound of the door bell ringing caused them to freeze.

    "Well...it seems your date is here. Are you ready?"

    Yan Mei winked at Su Bei which caused her to blush.

 Chapter 210 Cinderella and Prince charming

    <h4>Chapter 210 Cindere and Prince charming</h4>

    "Leng Shao stared at his reflection in the mirror. He had to admit he looked really handsome tonight but he asked himself if he was ready to let go, is this the first step for him to let go of the woman he has been secretly in love with for years? Is this the moment he restarts a new chapter in his life? Find love again?

    Taking a deep breath, he told himself not to rush and to trust the process. One step at a time.

    "I have to say you look rather dashing. It seems you''re ready for your date." His father''s voice sounded behind him. Leng Shao looked at his father through the reflection in the mirror. He saw his father was leaning against the frame of the door, his eyes boring through him.

    "Aren''t you supposed to be on a business trip?" Leng Shao asked. His father chuckled and strode towards Leng Shao slowly.

    His father stood beside him and patted his shoulders. "You look handsome son, clearly you carry my genes." His father mumbled.

    Leng Shao rolled his eyes. "What do you want to say, dad. Stop beating around the bush."

    Leng Shao said as he sauntered away from his father.

    He sat on the bed and gazed at his father.

    "I''m just happy that you have finally decided to move on. I watched you waste your life all these years for a woman who would never be yours."

    His father said, his eyes peering into him intensely. Leng Shao had to admit his father''s words were cruel. It''s like he has been pped across the face.

    He pursed his lips in a thin line and parted them to say something but closed them at thest minute.

    "You should know I don''t care about the girl you like. As long as she is good and makes you happy, I will give you my blessings. You''re my only son and it''s time you settle down. You''re not getting any younger." His father eximed softly.

    Leng Shao stood up from the bed and straightened his zer. "I''m going. See youter, dad."

    Leng Shao bid his father goodbye and walked out of the room.

    Sitting in his car, he looked at the address Yan Mei sent him. And started his car.

    Twenty minutester, Leng Shao reached the address Yan Mei gave to him. He realized it was a simple apartment. He walked towards it and rang the door bell.

    His gaze travelled around as he waited for the door to open.

    Suddenly the door opened revealing someone Leng Shao wasn''t expecting to see.

    Yan Mei pulled Leng Shao into a friendly hug.

    "Hello to you too, Fen-Yan Mei." Leng Shao chuckled as he hugged her back.

    "Still a dummy I see." Yan Meimented as she pulled awayughing.

    Leng Shao scratched his nose awkwardly.

    "Oh is that a rose?! Aww Leng Shao, I didn''t know you are the romantic type." Yan Mei teased Leng Shao.

    Leng Shao shrugged and smiled at her. She looked so beautiful¡­..too bad she wasn''t his.

    Okay, focus Leng Shao. It''s time to move on.

    "Let''s go to meet your date for the night!" Yan Mei oblivious to Leng Shao''s thoughts grabbed his arms and pulled him inside.

    Yan Mei found Su Bei standing in the middle of the room in a trance as she gaped at Leng Shao.

    Yan Mei smirked, she knew her friend was salivating at Leng Shao inwardly and she couldn''t me her.

    Leng Shao looked handsome tonight. He was wearing a ck Armani suit that hang on his body perfectly making him look like he just came out of a photo shoot.

    "This is my best friend, Su Bei." Yan Mei said.

    Leng Shao lips curved slightly making his dimples slightly visible.

    Su Bei breath hitched.

    "Su Bei, this is Leng Shao. My best friend."

    Leng Shao finally looked at Su Bei and he found himself frozen. She was beautiful. For the first he found another woman beautiful other than Yan Mei.

    She was wearing an elegant and feminine dress featuring an off shoulder design with a beautiful ckce ovey. It reached just on her knee and fits perfectly on her figure.

    The outfit she was wearing wasn''t revealing like most girls who had tried to get on his bed the past few years.

    Her hair which was usually pulled in a bob now topped down her shoulders and cascaded down her back.

    Leng Shao swallowed and licked his lips as they eyes interlocked. He saw a faint blush taint her cheeks and a smile etched on his lips.

    "Here, this is for you." Leng Shao took a step forward towards Su Bei as he offered her the rose.

    Su Bei blushed and took the rose.

    "Thank you." She mumbled as she brought it to her nostrils, sniffling it.

    Leng Shao''s eyes roamed her body and his gaze met hers.

    "You look beautiful, Miss Su."

    Su Bei blinked and batted her eyshes in surprise.

    "T-thank you. You look handsome too."

    Leng Shao chuckled, "Thank you."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes at them.

    "Okay, you too. Stop flirting in front of me. And leave already."

    Su Bei red at Yan Mei, making her smile.

    "Shall we go?" Leng Shao''s asked politely.

    His deep voice sent a shiver along Su Bei''s spine as she blushed. She avoided his gaze and nodded her head.

    "Alright then, let''s go." Leng Shao whispered.

    "Remember to bring her home early. Before midnight or the magic will disappear."

    Yan Mei said dramatically.

    Leng Shao smirked in amusement. "Alright, madam."

    Su Bei chuckled and shook her head.

    "Now have fun with Prince charming, Cindere. Remember toe home before midnight!"

    Yan Mei watched them get into the car and smiled.

    The moment Leng Shao and Su Left, Yan Mei turned around to get back into the house but stopped in her tracks.

    She saw him; he was leaning against his car as his gaze bore into her.

 Chapter 211 A love so sweet

    <h4>Chapter 211 A love so sweet</h4>

    Seeing her husband and remembering what Tang Mei told her about his ex-girlfriend, Yan Mei''s face turned nonchnt as she stared back at him.

    Without saying anything, she walked inside the room and picked up her purse. She locked Su Bei''s door and ced her key under a pot where she had shown her to ce it.

    Striding towards him,, Lei Zhao opened the passenger''s seat once she reached him. Yan Mei only stared at him as he did the simple act of courtesy of opening the door to her.

    "Hmm?" Lei Zhao arched a brow at her, slightly confused. "Why are you standing there for, Wifey?"

    There was love in his voice. Yan Mei slightly narrowed her beautiful eyes at him, hershes brushing at the bottom of her eyes as she blinked.

    Lei Zhao found her pretty, so he walked up towards her, and when he nted a soft kiss on top of her head, Yan Mei turned her head away, seemingly to avoid him.

    "Huh? Wifey, why are you like this now, oh..."

    "Nothing."

    With only answering his question with one word, Yan Mei walked down the stairs as she went inside the passenger''s seat, making Lei Zhao sigh as he went back in the driver''s seat, closing the door of the passenger''s seat to secure Yan Mei.

    The moment Lei Zhao entered, Yan Mei had already put her seatbelt on. When he noticed this, his eyebrows slightly twitched as Yan Mei''s demeanor was differentpared to the usual. He thought she would be excited to see him, but he didn''t expect that the issue of his ex-girlfriend would bother her this much.

    "Want to go buy something?"

    "No."

    "Up for something to eat?"

    "No."

    "So, we now go directly home?"

    "Yes."

    Lei Zhao''s lips turned into a tight line. All of Yan Mei''s answers to all of his questions are just one-word! The man now obviously knew that she is bothered by the issue. Now Lei Zhao is thinking how he could coax her now?

    "Okay then," Lei Zhao mumbled, deciding to give her silence for a while in hopes that it will calm her down. "Straight home, we go..."

    ***

    The trip going home was incredibly silent, making Lei Zhao want to scream at the top of his lungs just for the silence to break. The moment Lei Zhao parked the car in the garage, Yan Mei unbuckled herself from the seatbelt then left the vehicle immediately, leaving her husband alone in the car.

    "Ah... this..."

    Lei Zhao felt a pang of pain in his heart! With his beloved Wifey ignoring him since he had picked her up, he felt wronged, and he wanted to make things right just for them to make up!

    When Yan Mei entered the house, Lei Zhao quickly got out of the car to follow her. The moment Yan Mei entered the passcode of their door, Lei Zhao entered and had caught her by the wrist, slightly surprising Yan Mei as he both held both of her shoulders gently to make her face him.

    "Wifey, what''s wrong?" Yan Mei averted her gaze as she pouted like a child, Lei Zhao chuckling slightly to enjoy seeing his sweet wife''s jealous face. "Are you angry at me?"

    He meant to ask her if she was jealous, but Lei Zhao didn''t dare ask, so he just said another question instead.

    "No."

    ''Ah... my Wifey is jealous,'' Lei Zhao thought as he pulled Yan Mei into an embrace, his wife''s heart swooning, but she stood her ground of acting indifferent towards her husband''s sweetness.

    Lei Zhao sighed as he caressed her hair gently, nting a soft kiss on top of her head before he spoke.

    "I was dating Yu Yan when I was 25, and we dated for three years until she suddenly left me two years ago, alright?"

    "Nngh..." Yan Mei rolled her eyes at him, "I was not asking," she mumbled, Lei Zhao sighing once more as he tried his best to coax his wife.

    "The day she left me was also the day my brother died."

    When she heard this, Yan Mei''s attitude shifted as he looked up to face him, feeling guilty for acting childish and jealous when his ex-girlfriend had also brought up a sensitive topic--his brother''s death.

    "I''m sorry," Yan Mei apologized, her eyes showing guilt. "I shouldn''t have acted this way," she mumbled, making Lei Zhao chuckle as he shook his head, disagreeing with her.

    "It''s okay! Seeing you jealous makes me realize how much you love me, Wifey. I could see that you love me very much!"

    Lei Zhao winked at Yan Mei, making his wife roll her eyes at him as she forced herself not to release augh.

    "Delusional," shemented, Lei Zhao, looking at her lovingly as he held Yan Mei''s face, his thumbs caressing her cheeks.

    "There is nothing to worry. We never loved each other, anyway. We were like best friends," he said reassuringly, his eyes locked with hers. "I can guarantee you that you are the only woman I love--no one else."

    Yan Mei wanted to act childish for a bit as she felt giddy deep down in her heart, hearing Lei Zhao''s loving words. She slightly pouted as she narrowed her eyes at him, making himugh at her reaction.

    "Really?"

    "Is that a question you dare ask your Hubby?"

    Lei Zhao pulled her closer to him, leaving no space between them as he put his forehead against hers, his voice sultry as he whispered, his breath fanning over her lips.

    "Do you want me to prove it to you in bed?"

    Yan Meiughed out loud. She was carried smoothly by Lei Zhao in bridal style. He then quickly walked up the stairs, Yan Mei''s arms wrapped around his neck.

    "Stop your shamelessness! I have to finalize some other documents for theunch!"

    She meant to scold him, but her voice came out yful. Lei Zhao grinned ear to ear as he ignored her plea, giving her a quick kiss on the lips to silence her.

    "That can wait. I have to satisfy my jealous Wifey."

    With that, Lei Zhao and Yan Mei had entered their bedroom. Lei Zhao had one goal stered in mind: to satisfy his jealous wife and to make sure that she would feel how much he loves her.

    Written by ~MysticAmy

 Chapter 212 Challenge

    <h4>Chapter 212 Challenge</h4>

    Leng Shao opened the door of his car for Su Bei. His eyes met hers, and the moment it did, both of them smiled at each other as Su Bei gave him a small nod, thanking him for being a gentleman.

    "Thank you."

    "My pleasure."

    With that, Su Bei had entered Leng Shao''s car and sat on the passenger''s seat. Soon after, Leng Shao followed as he sat on the driver''s seat, starting the vehicle already after they have buckled themselves with their seatbelts.

    Since it was just a 5-minute drive from where they were earlier, it was quite a quiet drive going to the restaurant. The moment they arrived, Leng Shao immediately got off of the car and opened the door for Su Bei once more.

    "Your keys, sir."

    Greeted by the chauffeur, Leng Shao nodded as he gave his keys, the man already driving his car for parking.

    Leng Shao then smiled at Su Bei, who was standing beside him as he extended his arm, Su Bei shyly smiling as she linked her arm with his, already entering the morous restaurant before them.

    The moment they entered, it was as if the restaurant was for kings and queens. The interior seemed to be out of gold, and everyone seemed to be from affluent families as they dined in this fine restaurant.

    "A reservation for Mr. Leng Shao and his date?"

    A waitress then soon greeted them, making the two smile as Leng Shao nodded, giving the waitress the signal to lead the way.

    "Yes, lead the way. Thank you."

    Su Bei felt the pitter-patter of her heart. Leng Shao and Su Bei followed the waitress as she walked them towards their area, overlooking the city lights outside.

    "My!"

    Su Bei couldn''t help but feel enthralled with the view that was before them. The lights of the skyscrapers near them were like shining stars that came down from the heavens.

    Seeing the expression on Su Bei''s face, Leng Shao beamed as he felt like he did his best in preparing for their date. He cleared his throat to get Su Bei''s attention as he pulled the chair, gesturing Su Bei to sit down.

    "Mdy?"

    Su Bei couldn''t help but giggle a little as Leng Shao addressed her like she is a woman of high rank. She gracefully sat down on the chair as Leng Shao seated right in front of her, their eyes locked as Su Bei spoke,plimenting him.

    "I have to say, Mr. Leng, that the view before us is spectacr," Su Bei said, Leng Shao, giving her a wink as he felt satisfaction in herpliment.

    "Oh, you tter me, Miss Su. It is deserving of a wonderful woman such as you."

    Su Bei smiled, showing her perfect teeth as Leng Shao smiled back. At the same moment, a waiter came by at their table and served them wine first.

    "Thank you for choosing our restaurant, Mr. Leng," the waiter said as he smiled politely at the two. "We will be serving you our best three courses, and I hope you two would enjoy this wonderful evening," he added, the two smiling back at the waiter serving them.

    "A pleasure. Thank you for having us."

    As the waiter left to go to the kitchen to inform the cook in preparing their meal, Su Bei elegantly got her wine at the side and took a small sip, her eyes shylynding on Leng Shao in front of her.

    She had to admit, being in front of a dashing man such as him had tugged her heartstrings, making her swoon! With his smooth actions and his words, it was such a plus point that it made her want to get to know him more.

    At the same time, it was the same for Leng Shao. He had decided to move on from the woman he loved for a long time, and uponying his eyes on Su Bei for the first time, Leng Shao was taken aback--only realizing now that he could meet another beautiful woman.

    It was silent for a while. Su Bei then put her ss down as her heart raced, slightly ufortable as she struggled to put her words in the best way possible, not wanting to sound awkward.

    ''What should we talk about,'' she thought to herself. ''Should I start the conversation? Would that make me seem like a woman who isn''t hard to get? Would he think that?''

    As if sensing a cloud of gloominess on top of Su Bei''s head, Leng Shao slightly chuckled, getting Su Bei''s attention.

    "Are you worried that you''re making a bad impression of yourself?"

    "Wh-what? I..."

    Su Bei stammered in her words as she felt her face heat up a little, indicating that she was blushing. With the soft flush of pink forming on her cheeks, Leng Shao found her cute as she grinned at her, wanting to tease her even though they just met today.

    "I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to hit a bullseye," Leng Shao joked, making Su Bei yfully roll his eyes at him as she now realized that he was teasing her. "But then again, I could be wrong," he added, Su Bei smiling at him when she heard his words.

    "Oh, you could be right, Mr. Leng," she replied, now the atmosphere lighter between them, no longer awkward. "But, I am also wondering, per se, if you could satisfy the woman right before your eyes."

    "Oh?" Leng Shao grinned, showing his teeth as he learned that she also had humor in her. "I would dly take the challenge, Ms. Su."

    The twoughed as they now found it easier to converse with each other this evening. It was as if the awkwardness between the two had already vanished into thin air!

    With Leng Shao and Su Bei already clicking as the conversation between them started, it had made the two think that they would indeed have a fun evening together.

    It made both of them think and hope if there would be more chances to meet each other after their first date.

    M.A

 Chapter 213 Gee-gee et Leng-Leng

    <h4>Chapter 213 Gee-gee et Leng-Leng</h4>

    Jovialughter sounded from the two as they ate their meal and as they conversed with each other.

    It was as if the two had known each other for a long time as the awkwardness between Leng Shao and Su Bei was only for a brief moment!

    Su Bei got a small slice of beef in her mouth and chewed, as Leng Shao chuckled a bit, eating a piece of his beef as well.

    "Tell me more about this fear of animals you have," he said, Su Bei rolling her eyes as she slightly shuddered when she remembered her memories of her childhood fear.

    Su Bei had opened up a while ago that she had a love for animals, and at the same time, feared one of them. What piqued Leng Shao''s curiosity, however, was thetter part.

    "Oh, believe me..." Su Bei scoffed a little as a small giggle came from her. "You would not believe that it ever happened," she added, Leng Shao already grinning even though he hadn''t heard what she was about to say yet.

    "Just say it," Leng Shao urged, making Su Beiugh once more as she shook her head, putting her fork and knife down as she became animated with how she told her story.

    "You see, when I was young, I visited the countryside with my mother for a few days," she started, the attention of Leng Shao already on her. "I was ying with some of the children in the area. Then for the first time, I saw a horse!"

    Leng Shao narrowed his eyes at Su Bei as he smiled, already guessing what''s toe.

    "Don''t tell me... that you''re afraid of horses?"

    Su Beiughed out loud, and the moment she did, Leng Shao already knew that he guessed right. Herugh was beautiful and contagious, making the manugh along with her as her voice traveled through his ears like music.

    "You''re right," Su Bei said, leaning in closer towards the table as she narrowed her eyes at the man in front of her. "Would you like to guess why?"

    Leng Shao blinked his eyes a few times as he went silent for a few seconds. He contemted a bit as to why Su Bei was afraid of horses until he shrugged, not knowing what could ever be the reason why.

    "Hmm... nothing I could think of," he replied, making Su Bei lean back as she took her wine ss on the table, taking another sip before narrating her childhood story.

    "You see, I saw a horse for the first time, right?" She put the ss down on the table. "It was a brown horse, and its tail''s fixed into a braid--I find it amusing!"

    "Oh!" Leng Shao grinned as he listened to her, finding her interesting as he talked with her more. "So, where''s the part where it would exin your fear of horses?"

    "Hush!" Su Bei giggled, shaking her head. "I am about to get to that!"

    Leng Shao chuckled as he got his ss and sipped his wine as well. He thought he only had engaging and fun conversations with Yan Mei, but little did Leng Shao know that he could also enjoy thepany of another beautiful woman.

    "So, I have this ymate." Su Bei rolled her eyes. "It was not his first time seeing a horse, but when he touched it, it startled the horse, and it almost kicked me! I was startled, too, so I immediately fell on the ground as it almost stomped me! Good thing I was small--I curled into a ball, making the horse spare my life!"

    When Leng Shao heard her whole story, heughed out loud, making his eyes small as Su Beiughed along with him. Happy tears almost escaped from his eyes as he wiped his face with a napkin, making Su Bei do so as well.

    "Now I know what to call you instead of Ms. Su," Leng Shao said, making the woman in front of him cock her head to the side in wonder.

    "Oh? And what should that nickname be?" She asked. Leng Shao was stifling hisugh as he looked at her with animated eyes.

    "Gee-gee."

    "Hey!"

    Su Bei crumpled one tissue paper and threw it at Leng Shao as the twoughed, the two of them already getting closer to each other even though it was the first time that they are together.

    "Gee-gee is a ng term for a horse, right? How dare you give such a name to me?"

    Leng Shao chuckled as he stared right back at Su Bei, his eyes reflecting happiness and gentleness.

    "It is a unique nickname, fitting for Su Bei, who is cutely afraid of a majestic animal such as horses."

    "Oh, you..." Su Bei slightly giggled as she locked eyes with him. "Then, I could give you a nickname as well!"

    "Really?" Leng Shao grinned, "And what would Gee-gee call me, hmm?"

    "Leng-Leng. Sounds quite cute for a man such as you, don''t you think?"

    The twoughed once more as they continued teasing each other. The time spent between the two had made the night fun and memorable indeed, making them think at the same time why they haven''t met each other earlier.

    ***

    In a blink of an eye, it was almostte at night. Leng Shao had suggested bringing Su Bei home, which the woman dly agreed to. The drive home was lighterpared to the drive going to the restaurant.

    The moment they arrived in front of Su Bei''s home, Leng Shao had walked her towards the entrance of her house. Before Su Bei opened the door, she looked at Leng Shao with a bright smile, her heart racing as she met his eyes.

    "Thank you for driving me home," she said, Leng Shao smiling as he felt warm in his heart.

    "It''s a pleasure. I had such a great time with you," he said, Su Bei swooning in her heart as she beamed.

    "Me, too."

    Leng Shao then extended his hand to her, Su Bei looking at it as he did so.

    "So, friends?"

    Su Bei giggled as she held his hand, shaking it as if to ept his offer.

    "Mm... friends."

    Leng Shao''s lips curled into a small smile, bringing out his dimples.

    "Alright, Gee-gee. See you soonest. Goodnight."

    Su Bei nodded, then she bit her lip before greeting him a wonderful night as well as their first date ended.

    "Good night, Leng-Leng."

    M.A

 Chapter 214 Unknown message

    <h4>Chapter 214 Unknown message</h4>

    It was another ordinary day at work. Yan Mei was busy sorting out the other documents for theunch as she made sure that as the deadline inched in, she would double-check that there won''t be any mistakes--even the slightest--to make sure that everything was in ce.

    "Mmkay... done," Yan Mei mumbled as she stood up, stretching both of her arms to rx her muscles.

    As she walked towards the window of her office that overlooked the city, she got the ponytail that she wore as a bracelet on her wrist, then tied her hair.

    "Yan Mei!"

    "My goodness!"

    At the same moment, Su Bei had opened Yan Mei''s office door open and made her way in without even informing her that she would. It had surprised Yan Mei that she almost jumped in surprise.

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes at Su Bei as she put her hands on her waist, scolding her friend.

    "When did you start entering my office, without knocking?", she said, Su Bei ignoring her warning as she grinned, walking towards her.

    "I had such a wonderful date with Leng Shao, Yan Mei! I can''t wait to tell you this!"

    With the excitement etched in her voice, Yan Mei couldn''t help but yfully roll her eyes at Su Bei, smiling at her as she forgot that she was surprised by her friend''s sudden appearance in her office.

    "I could not only see the happiness on your eyes but on your lips as well," Yan Meimented, sitting on the couch beside her as she crossed her leg over the other. "Tell me what happened!"

    Su Bei giggled, herughter contagious as Yan Mei alsoughed along with her. Su Bei excitedly sat on the single couch in front of Yan Mei, her eyes bright with eagerness as she told her what had happened during her date with Leng Shao.

    "Oh, it was so dreamy! It was like my dream date had be a reality right before my eyes!"

    Yan Mei bit her bottom lip as she listened to excited Su Bei. She rarely saw her this way, so she felt happy to see her friend this overjoyed.

    "It''s only the first date, but we immediately clicked, you know? We even had nicknames for each other."

    "Oh?" Yan Mei smiled, showing her perfect white teeth. "What nicknames do you have for each other?" she asked, Su Bei giggling as she felt her cheeks flush, remembering what they called each other.

    "I told him how I feared horses, so he called me Gee-gee. Then, out of the blue, I had called him Leng-Leng, making his nickname sound like a cute nickname for a girl."

    Yan Mei tipped her head up as sheughed, finding their date funny as she felt happy for both of her friends to click.

    "I could see that you enjoyed," Yan Meimented, Su Bei nodding in agreement as a sweet smile appeared on her face.

    "Oh, more than that, Yan Mei... I couldn''t ask for more!" She swooned as she bit her lip, looking at her friend shyly as she continued talking. "Would it be stupid for me to say and think that he''s the one? I mean--it''s just the first date, but..."

    Yan Mei could understand what Su Bei was telling her even without herpleting her sentence. It was rare for Su Bei to be this happy, so Yan Mei right here and then wished that this happiness of her with Leng Shao would continue to be sweet and sincere.

    "I know what you mean, but you two just started. I couldn''t say what would happen just yet, but as Leng Shao is my friend, I know that he''s kind, and he wouldn''t dare to hurt you."

    "Mm..." Su Bei leaned in closer as if telling her friend a secret that other people shouldn''t hear even though they were alone inside of the office. "Can you ask him what he thinks of me?"

    Yan Mei blinked her eyes a few times, "What?"

    "Oh,e on..." Su Bei pouted her lips like a child. "Call him and ask him what he thinks of me...e on!"

    "Oh, you..."

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes at Su Bei as she got her phone from her skirt''s pocket and proceeded to call Leng Shao.

    She put her phone on loudspeaker, and when the two heard the ring, Su Bei excitedly stood up as she sat beside Yan Mei. She almost held her breath as they waited for the person on the other line.

    "Yan Mei... what''s up?"

    Su Bei stifled her swoon as she put both of her hands in front of her mouth, making sure that Leng Shao won''t hear her over the phone. Yan Mei gave her a look of warning as she spoke, asking Leng Shao how their date was.

    "Nothing. Just called to ask how the date was going?"

    "Oh!" The two girls heard a chuckle at the other end of the call. "It was a fun date. I didn''t expect it. Su Bei, she''s enthralling--captivating."

    "Oh?" Yan Mei grinned as she watched Su Bei blushing, listening to their conversation. "Only on physical appearance?"

    "No, no! Of course, not," Leng Shao immediately replied, Su Bei biting on her bottom lip as she continued listening to his reply. "She''s humorous and witty. I like it. I want to get to know her better. I know there''s something more to her," he added.

    Yan Meiughed as she shook her head at Su Bei, who grabbed the pillow beside them and embraced it as if she was a teenage girl.

    "Would you ask her for more dates in the future?" she asked, Leng Shao nervously chuckling.

    "I would! But do you think she would like to meet me again?"

    Su Bei widened her eyes as she mouthed, "Oh my God!" silently, Yan Mei stifling herughter as she answered Leng Shao.

    "You would have to ask her again to know, right?"

    "Right," Leng Shao replied, "I would have to prepare by then," he added, Yan Mei giggling as she narrowed her eyes at Su Bei, whose face was as red as a tomato.

    "Good. That''s all I wanted to ask you. Goodbye."

    "Mm. Goodbye. Thanks for setting us up."

    The moment the call ended, Su Bei blushed and smiled.

    "Stop being a young girl, jeez," Yan Meimented.

    "Thanks for letting me meet him, Yan Mei," she thanked her. Yan Meiughed as she raised a brow at her friend, teasing her.

    "If this goes well, I''d automatically be the bridesmaid, okay?"

    Before Yan Mei could even reply, she heard a ping from her phone. When she checked, her eyebrows creased to have seen a message from an unsaved number.

    ''Who could have known my number,'' she thought to herself, ''I rarely give out my number to anyone.''

    "What''s wrong?"

    Su Bei saw the difort in Yan Mei''s face, but Yan Mei did not reply to her question.

    With a little bit of hesitation in her fingers, she opened the message. Her face turned pale, and her heart sank to the bottom as she felt scared of the text she had received from the mysterious sender.

    "Run, little kitty. Run."

 Chapter 215 Heartless Wife

    <h4>Chapter 215 Heartless Wife</h4>

    Lei Zhao parked his car in front of hispany. Afterward, he made his way towards his office to continue where he left off yesterday with the documents left on top of his desk.

    The moment he strode into thepany on his way to the elevator, his employees greeted him.

    "Good morning, Mr. Lei Zhao."

    "En."

    Lei Zhao acknowledged the presence of his employees with a nod. The moment he entered the elevator, the others made way for him as one employee clicked the floor where Lei Zhao''s office was.

    After a few seconds, Lei Zhao had already arrived at the top floor. The moment Lei Zhao entered the office, he sighed in relief as he was now alone inside of his premise, no longer wanting to put up a stiff front as he could now be with himself.

    ''Finally... peace.''

    Lei Zhao sat on his office chair as he got his pen from his pen holder. He then took the documents piled at the side as he skimmed through them, signing them as well.

    He was starting to focus on his work when the thought of his wife suddenly passed through his mind. He scoffed a bit as a small smirk appeared on his face, remembering how his wife teased him. His wife was really a temptress.

    ***

    As they were about to sleep, Lei Zhao saw how Yan Mei put on the nightgown that hung on her perfectly, entuating the curves of her body. The man whistled approvingly as Yan Mei brushed her hair to the back, cascading behind her as she walked towards the bed.

    "Wifey,.....Aah my wife is so beautiful!" Lei Zhao had a mischievous grin on his face, making Yan Mei roll her eyes at him. "Aren''t you hot tonight!"

    Yan Mei raised a brow at him, "Tonight only?"

    "Oh! No, no, no!" Lei Zhao, yfully shaking his head to disagree. "You''re hot every day! It''s just that tonight, you in that flimsy nightgown of yours, you instantly turned me on, baby..."

    Hearing how he admired her tonight, a teasing smirk appeared on Yan Mei''s face as she slowly and smoothly straddled on top of him, Lei Zhao holding her waist to keep her in ce.

    "Oh?" Yan Mei bent down, her index finger tracing Lei Zhao''s cheek, down to his chin. "I did?"

    "You did, Wifey," Lei Zhao''s sultry voice growled as he stared at Yan Mei''s luscious lips hungrily. "Oh, I would want to tear your nightgown right here right now and pounce on you like a lion stalking his prey!"

    Yan Meiughed out loud, her head tipping up as theughter resounded in their room. She stared right back at him as she bent down once more, her index finger tracing his bottom lip.

    "My, aren''t you an active little lion," she teased, Lei Zhao turning the tables around as he swiftly put Yan Mei on her bedside, now on top of her.

    "And you are my seductive, sexy little Wifey."

    With that, Yan Mei had wrapped both of her hands around Lei Zhao''s neck. His lips crashed on hers then, his tongue smoothly licked on her bottom lip as if to ask for entrance. Yan Mei immediately answered with a bite on his bottom lip.

    With the kiss turning the man on, he broke their kiss as Yan Mei put her hand on his perfectly chiseled chest, slightly pushing Lei Zhao away to give them space.

    "What''s wrong, Wifey?"

    It almost came out in a whisper. Yan Mei smiled at him as she stared right back into his eyes, a small smile appearing on her face.

    "I want to be on top," she answered, making Lei Zhao grin, showing his perfect white teeth.

    "My Wifey wants to get it on with me tonight acting all domineering, yes!"

    Yan Mei stifled herugh as Lei Zhaoid on his bedside. Both of his arms were behind his head as he patiently waited for Yan Mei. Seeing him this way, Yan Mei straddled on top of him again, her hands on his waist to support herself.

    "Well?" Lei Zhao slightly arched his brow as if to challenge his wife. "I won''t move. I leave it all up to you!"

    Without saying a word, Yan Mei slowly bent down, making Lei Zhao feel excited as he wondered what she would do next.

    ''Would she kiss my neck? Would she kiss my lips instead? Will she continue this on as she rides me until I be hard?''

    Lei Zhao, with his thoughts, was like the thoughts of an immature man who was having sex with his woman for the first time. He couldn''t help it, however, because even though the two are married, he found the time spent together with Yan Mei so exciting!

    The moment Yan Mei was only an inch away from his face, a cheeky grin shed on her face as she bent further down, whispering against his ear, Lei Zhao''s mouth agape as he did not expect what she said.

    "I''m about to have my period soon... I don''t want to do it just yet."

    "Wha--"

    Interrupting him, Yan Mei giggled as she quickly gave him a brief peck on the lips and, like a child, had rushed to her bedside to lie down as he grabbed his arm to make him hug her by the waist.

    "Let''s sleep," she instantly suggested. "I had fun teasing you tonight, though. Goodnight!"

    Lei Zhao widened his eyes and opened his mouth.

    "Wifey¡­.you''re really heartless!" Lei Zhaomented.

    Yan Mei chuckled at him, "Yes I am and you love me."

    "That I do!"

    ***

    "Hmph!"

    Lei Zhao harrumphed as he pouted like a child. He was so excited that night to at least has a moment with his beloved Wifey. But little did he knew that she was teasing her, giving him blue balls instead!

    "Just you wait, Wifey," he was talking to himself. "Once your period is over, I would devour you like a hungry lion--even your soul will beg for mercy." Lei Zhao mumbled as his lips curved into an evil smirk.

    "Mr. Lei?"

    The voice of his assistant was heard from outside his room, breaking him from his thoughts of his wife. Lei Zhao heaved a sigh as he spoke, signaling for his entrance.

    "Come in!"

    With his words beckoning his assistant in, Lei Zhao stood up as his eyebrows furrowed on the strange parcel that his assistant was holding.

    "What''s that?"

    "I am not sure, Mr. Lei," his assistant honestly answered, "but your name is here and it was addressed here, so I thought to give it to you instead."

    Lei Zhao eyed the parcel suspiciously as he saw that it was only his name that was written on it. His assistant gave a small bow before he left him alone in the room and the moment he did, Lei Zhao opened the package to see a CD inside.

    ''Whatever could this be--and for what purpose?''

    There was a package that bore only his name--without even any information about the sender. Thebel on the parcel only had his name was present, along with the address of hispany.

    Lei Zhao''s eyebrows furrowed in wonder as his eyes had not left the parcel that was in his hand. He slowly sat down on his office chair as he opened the case of the CD, with a paper attached to it.

    It said: "Watch me."

    ''What could be in this CD,'' Lei Zhao wondered, ''It seemed that something burned a content in here and was sent here on purpose just for me to watch it.''

 Chapter 216 Motive

    <h4>Chapter 216 Motive</h4>

    [Warning: Chapter contains mature R-18 content. If ufortable, feel free to skip.]

    ***

    There was a package that bore only his name--without even any information about the sender. Thebel on the parcel only had his name was present, along with the address of hispany.

    Lei Zhao''s eyebrows furrowed in wonder as his eyes had not left the parcel that was in his hand. He slowly sat down on his office chair as he opened the case of the CD, with a paper attached to it.

    It said: "Watch me."

    ''What could be in this CD,'' Lei Zhao wondered, ''It seemed that something burned a content in here and was sent here on purpose just for me to watch it.''

    Lei Zhao was curious as to what contents could be inside the CD. He carefully put the CD on his PC''s disk reader, then opened VLC to y the file that was inside.

    Lei Zhao''s eyes widened at what he had seen. His mouth was almost agape as he kept watching the contents of the CD, with no intention of stopping to see why someone had sent him this.

    In the video, he saw a man and a woman having sex. Both of their faces were censored and blurred, making it difficult for Lei Zhao to see who it was.

    His lips turned into a tight line as he continued watching, his eyebrows furrowing as his eyes focused on the girl''s body, making him look as if there was something distinct in their body to identify them.

    He thought that he would be able to figure out who the people were in the video if he heard their voices, but unfortunately, the video only provided the visuals and removed the audio.

    The man in the video put his hands on the waist of the woman then he thrust hard into her. The woman had both of her hands grasping on the sheets for dear life as the man slowed down, adjusting their position to something else.

    Now the woman was on her knees. The man had his left hand on the woman''s waist as his right hand held the woman''s wavy hair, thrusting deeper and faster in her, Lei Zhao slightly sighing as he found his actions quite rough on the woman.

    He had sex with Yan Mei, the woman he loves many times, but never did it cross his mind to grab her hair during sex, and never did it cross his mind to hold her throat at the same time.

    With the video ying before him and with his thoughts in mind, it made him think if the man vited the woman.

    As Lei Zhao watched the video, his thoughts wandered off. He wondered what could be in the mind of the sender to have made him or her send him this.

    He also thought at the same moment if watching the whole video could give him some hints, leading him to some clues about the sender and what could his or her motive be.

    Lei Zhao watched closely. His eyes almost narrowed, almost kissing the screen as he put leaned in closely, observing the surroundings in the video.

    They filmed in a dimly lit room, with only themp giving them light. Lei Zhao clicked his tongue as his fingers tapped his desk restlessly, wondering who could the people in the video be.

    ''How long is this video?''

    Lei Zhao put the pointer of hisputer to the bar below and noticed that it was almost 15 minutes long. He sighed as he realized that it was as if he was watching a porn video on the inte, but nothing seemed quite right.

    As the video went wrong, the man was quite rough on the woman, as if having the intentions of doing so. Lei Zhao''s eyebrows furrowed as he skipped some parts, seeing no clues until now as to who the woman or the man was.

    ''Who are they? Why did the sender give me this, and what is his or her motive?''

    What happened next on the video slightly surprised him. He could be wrong, but in the angle where the woman was sitting on the man, the body seemed quite familiar.

    "Yan Mei?"

    His heart started racing. He focused on the figure of the woman once more, almost narrowing his eyes so he could shift his focus.

    Lei Zhao felt nervous about what he thought, but he knew better not to jump to conclusions because he knew that he could also be wrong.

    Lei Zhao heaved a small sigh as he shook his head slowly, focusing on the figure of the girl to assure himself of his thoughts.

    "People can nowadays edit, Lei Zhao," he said, convincing himself. "Besides, videos taken at certain angles could be deceiving," he added, Lei Zhao, leaning back on his chair as he held his mouse, skipping some parts of the video again.

    As he was nearing the end of the video, he stopped as he saw the man already leaving the woman alone on the bed after releasing his white ooze on her. Lei Zhao scoffed as he clicked his tongue, disgusted with what the man did.

    "After toying with her, he left the woman alone? How could I not think that this woman was either forced to do it with him?"

    Lei Zhao was talking to himself as he allowed his suspicions and thoughts to run wild. However, when a message shed at the end of the video, it got Lei Zhao''s full attention as he clicked rewind on the video and paused it on the text when it shed on the screen.

    "Who do you think they are, Lei Zhao?"

    The text was in Century Gothic font. It seemed that the sender or editor capitalized each letter and did it in bold to intentionally catch his attention as if wanting to taunt Lei Zhao at the same time.

    The hand on his desk turned into tight fists, his lips forming into a tight line. His body somewhat turned cold when he felt something off from the video, making him wonder who the sender was...

    And whatever could his or her motive be?

    M.A

 Chapter 217 Protect you

    <h4>Chapter 217 Protect you</h4>

    "Who do you think is in the video, Lei Zhao?"

    The message from the video kept running in his thoughts as if it participated in a marathon. Lei Zhao knew that he was currently at work but with this in his mind, how could he ever focus?

    His eyebrows furrowed as he got the disk from his PC. He nkly stared at it and wondered who could he ever know for him to receive such a package?

    But then again, Lei Zhao is known in their country and even in other countries. There might be people who knew him and would want to threaten him, which is why he or she did this.

    But who? And why?

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh. He clicked the buzzer on his desk for him to call his secretary. The moment he buzzer sounded on the secretary''s desk, he immediately entered Lei Zhao''s office, giving him a small bow to greet him.

    "Yes, Mr. Lei Zhao?"

    The man stood up from his chair, getting the disk on the table as he put it back on the case. He then walked to his secretary and gave him the CD case, stating his order to his secretary.

    "Investigate the contents of this CD. Also, do what you can to determine who the sender was. Once you have any leads about the content or on who the person who sent this, inform me immediately."

    His secretary did a small bow, "Understood."

    His secretary then left Lei Zhao alone in his office once more as he made way to process the work given to him. At the same moment, the phone of Lei Zhao rang, making the man get his phone on the table.

    His eyes widened the moment he saw who the caller was. It was his wife, Yan Mei, his heart slightly jumping in delight and at the same time wonder because he was not expecting a call from her this morning.

    He immediately answered the call and put it against his ear, speaking to greet his beloved wife.

    "Wifey... what''s wrong?"

    "Lei Zhao..."

    Lei Zhao''s posture straightened when he noticed that there was fear and at the same time uneasiness in his wife''s voice. His eyebrows furrowed a while. He wondered what was wrong to have made her call him at this time of day with worry in her voice.

    "Yan Mei," Lei Zhao sounded quite serious this time. "What''s wrong?"

    "I-I got a message."

    Hearing Yan Mei speak like this--stammering on her words even, it had made Lei Zhao think if something suspicious happened to her, too.

    "What did the message say?" Lei Zhao asked, trying his best to put the pieces together as if doing a jigsaw puzzle.

    Lei Zhao also noticed that Yan Mei was doing her best to mask her fear and uneasiness. With him knowing his wife was feeling this way, it made Lei Zhao worry for her, too, wanting to protect her if there was someone who meant to stir things up between them.

    It made him wonder if the sender meant to irk him--or her.

    "The message. It said, ''Run kitty, run.''"

    The lips of Lei Zhao turned into a tight line. He already deduced as much that someone was indeed doing this on purpose.

    With the message that was for him in the video, and with Yan Mei getting a suspicious text message from an unknown number, it made Lei Zhao want to investigate this further to get down it.

    "Lei Zhao?"

    With Yan Mei''s fear stered in her voice as she called out to him, it had snapped Lei Zhao out of his thoughts, shifting his focus back on Yan Mei to calm her down.

    "Wifey."

    "I..." Yan Mei trailed off, her voice almost shaking as she tried her best not to show how scared she was, but it was too noticeable for Lei Zhao even in the call. "I think... it''s that man."

    ''That man,'' Lei Zhao thought. ''I only know some details about him from Yan Mei, but is she sure?''

    Lei Zhao''s grip on his phone tightened. He knew how this man had affected Yan Mei mentally. He only knew that this man abused her, but with the video yed right before and with the question asked who they were, could Yan Mei be involved in this?

    "Lei Zhao... are you there?"

    Lei Zhao cleared his throat as he heaved a small smile, replying to Yan Mei as he wanted to go there as soon as he can tofort her.

    "Stay there. I''lle right to your office. Alright?"

    "Mm... thank you."

    ***

    Yan Mei was walking back and forth in her office. She had already told Su Bei that Lei Zhao is going to visit, so she went out to wait for him.

    Yan Mei tapped her feet as she embraced herself, her hands running up and down her arms as if to warm herself even though it wasn''t cold.

    She grew nervous by the second. If it was that man, how could he know her number? What was his motive to send such a message to her? Wasn''t he dead?

    Yan Mei furrowed her brows in fear as her eyes became blurry, tears already pooling in her eyes. Her heart thumped as she felt nervous, memories of the past haunting her as she remembered how much she suffered back in the days.

    "Yan Mei?"

    Yan Mei instinctively turned her body to look at the door the moment she heard a familiar voice. The moment Lei Zhao closed the door, her lips trembled as she felt vulnerable in front of the man whom she trusted.

    "Lei Zhao!"

    She immediately ran in his arms, Lei Zhao embracing her tightly. The man caressed the back of Yan Mei''s head gently,forting her as he stood in silence, his heart aching to see his wife this way.

    "I''m here, Wifey. I''m here." He nted a soft kiss on the top of her head, "I''ll protect you, Wifey. Don''t worry."

 Chapter 218 A trip to the therapist

    <h4>Chapter 218 A trip to the therapist</h4>

    Yan Mei drank the ss of water that Su Bei gave a few minutes ago. After half an hour, she calmed down, especially now that her husband, Lei Zhao, came tofort her.

    Yan Mei put the ss down on the coffee table in front of them as she heaved a sigh, a nk expression still on her face as Lei Zhao watched her with worried eyes.

    "Wifey..." Lei Zhao''s voice when he called her was full of love when he said it. "Are you feeling okay?"

    "Yes," she tly answered, "I''m fine."

    Lei Zhao just stared at his wife, not convinced that she''s doing okay. He slightly sighed as he wrapped an arm around her shoulders, squeezing her shoulder at the same time with his fingers that held her.

    "Are you sure? I am honestly worried about you suddenly crying in my arms," he said, Yan Mei, biting her bottom lip a bit as Lei Zhao could see right through her, knowing her too well.

    Yan Mei''s eyes reflected Lei Zhao''s worried expression. Lei Zhao then tucked some of her hair behind her ear as he gave her a small smile.

    "You crying all of a sudden is not something we should ignore, Yan Mei."

    Every time Lei Zhao called her by her name and not with his endearment "Wifey," Yan Mei could sense that her husband is serious and worried about her.

    "The text is bothersome, and with your thinking that it might be him, it might trigger something on your mental health," he added, Lei Zhao, making sense as Yan Mei nodded once, not knowing what to say.

    Yan Mei felt her heart warming. She only told Lei Zhao about her memory in the past of being kidnapped. Yan Mei did not say in detail what had happened specifically, but with Lei Zhao not asking much yet, he showed this much concern.

    It made her happy that Lei Zhao does respect her and waits for her patiently to share whatever she wanted to share.

    "Wifey..." Calling out to her broke her out of her stupor. "I think we need to visit your therapist, don''t you think?"

    She suddenly felt nervous. Her heart was thumping hard like a crazed bunny as she felt quite unsure of going to the therapist, but with her seeing her worried husband''s face, she knew that she would have to listen to him so he would ease his woes.

    "Okay," she tly agreed, and even though Lei Zhao sensed ambiguity, he just took it as a signal for them to go.

    With Yan Mei still in a daze, he was the one who rang Su Bei back in her office again to tell her that they would be out for a while so they could go to their therapist for Yan Mei''s session.

    ***

    The drive going to Yan Mei''s therapist was quiet. She nkly stared outside her window as Lei Zhao stole nces of his wife from the corner of his eye as he drove.

    His grip on the steering wheel tightened as he remembered his wife''s pained expression a while ago, especially when he heard her voice saying that it was that man again.

    Yan Mei''s body trembled in his embrace. Her voice was shaky as she spoke and sobbed against his chest, his heart tightening as he started feeling a pang of pain in his chest seeing her that way.

    It was clear that Yan Mei''s bothered. Knowing that his wife is a strong, independent woman, he knew that she was trying her best to keep her powerful facad¨¦ up even though she showed vulnerability in front of her husband.

    Before they knew it, they had already arrived in front of the building where her therapist''s office is situated. Lei Zhao parked the vehicle then went out of his seat to open Yan Mei''s door.

    The moment his wife was out of the car, Lei Zhao held her hand, his fingers interlocked with hers as he kissed the back of her palm,forting her as he felt that his wife needed it most now that she feels uneasy.

    "I''m here, okay? Remember that."

    Yan Mei nodded as the two of them now entered the building. Once the two had reached the lobby, the receptionist weely smiled at them as she gave them a small bow to acknowledge their presence.

    "Mr. and Mrs. Lei, we''ve been expecting you. She is already waiting inside. If Mrs. Lei is ready, I will escort her in the room while you stay here, Mr. Zhao," she said, Yan Mei immediately nodding as she released Lei Zhao''s hand.

    "I''ll go."

    With Yan Mei suddenly deciding after being quiet for a while, Lei Zhao furrowed his brows as he felt worried, stopping her in her tracks as he felt concerned for her.

    "You could take a breather for a few minutes before you enter," Lei Zhao said sincerely, Yan Mei giving him a small smile as she gently pushed his hand away to let her go.

    "We''re here so I could have peace of mind, right?" she said, not wanting to worry Lei Zhao any longer. "I''ll be fine. I will talk to my therapist, and it will be okay. Wait for me, hmm?"

    Lei Zhao was hesitant a bit, but he nodded after heaving a small smile, allowing Yan Mei to go to her therapist for her session.

    "Okay. My Wifey is strong," he encouraged, making Yan Mei smile at him. "I''ll wait for you, alright? If you feel like you need someone inside with you, juste out for a while and call me. Okay?"

    Yan Mei nodded as she tiptoed a bit to give her husband a quick kiss on the cheek. A smile curled on Lei Zhao''s lips as he watched the retreating figure of his wife, already entering the office of her therapist.

    The moment the door closed, slowly, the smile on his face started to disappear. Even though he knew that they were here to seek help for Yan Mei''s mental health, Lei Zhao couldn''t help but be worried for her.

    With the mysterious text that she received, and with the suspicious video that he watched, how could Lei Zhao sit still and be calm?

 Chapter 219 The psycho

    <h4>Chapter 219 The psycho</h4>

    Yan Mei entered the room. The office of her therapist was white and had only minimalist decorations. The therapist smiled at her as she stood up, gesturing Yan Mei to sit on the chair in front of her desk.

    Yan Mei smiled back as she sat on the chair. The therapist sat back down again, then the therapist''s secretary came with a mug of coffee for the two of them.

    "Mrs. Lei," the therapist greeted, "How have you been?"

    Yan Mei gave her therapist a small smile as she took a small sip of her coffee.

    "I''m feeling great, Ms. Qing. Thank you for asking."

    Ms. Qing, Yan Mei''s therapy, heaved a sigh. She then gave Yan Mei another smile as she stared straight at her eyes as if seeking some answers.

    "Are you happy?"

    Yan Mei blinked her eyes a few times, Lei Zhao''s figure suddenly appearing in her mind. A smile crept on her face as she nodded, answering Ms. Qing''s question.

    "I''m genuinely happy, Ms. Qing," she said, the therapist listening to her. "Since I have met my husband, Lei Zhao, I have been happy with my life when I have wished for it for a long time," she added, Ms. Qing nodding slowly as her lips turned into a tight line for a bit.

    For some reason, her reaction had made Yan Mei feel a bit nervous. With Ms. Qing''s action, she thought that she was not convinced--as if she would want to ask for more.

    "Mrs. Lei..." Ms. Qing held Yan Mei''s hand that was on her desk, a sincere smile curling on her lips as she asked her a question, "Are you sure that you''re happy?"

    Yan Mei fell silent once more. Ms. Qing released her hand as she gave her a small Hershey chocte, making Yan Mei blink her eyes a few times as she stared at the little piece of sweet.

    "You are here for a reason, are you not?" Yan Mei looked at the chocte that was in the palm of her hand. "I know that you are genuinely happy with your husband, but with you visiting, there must be something that is bothering you."

    Now Yan Mei understood why Ms. Qing''s profession was being a therapist. Ms. Qing''s voice and choice of words were enough for her to let her feel at ease even though she knew she had difficulty trusting strangers.

    Yan Mei didn''t say a word as she shyly stared at Ms. Qing. With her reaction, Ms. Qing smiled sweetly at her as she spoke, making her feelfortable so she could open up to her.

    "What stays in this room, stays in this room unless you share it with your husband. It is my job to make you feel at ease when even you, yourself, cannot do so."

    Yan Mei nodded once as she ate the chocte given to her. She chewed slowly as Ms. Qing patiently waited for her. Yan Mei drank a little of her coffee as she looked at Ms. Qing, her heart nervously beating as she started talking to her.

    "Memories of the past started haunting me, Ms. Qing," she almost said in a whisper, but it was enough for her to hear. The therapist nodded slowly as she gently urged her to continue.

    "Go on, Mrs. Lei."

    Yan Mei took a deep breath, then released it. Her fingers on her mug started shaking. She remembered one of the memories that had haunted her up to this day. Her eyebrows slightly creased as she felt like the presence of that man was inside the room, when he wasn''t.

    That is how much it had affected Yan Mei. It had been years since it happened, but still, it had bothered and haunted her this much.

    To calm herself down, Yan Mei drank her coffee as if it was water. She then put the mug down as she stared right back at Ms. Qing, who was waiting patiently for her.

    "I was in a cold dark room," she said, her lips almost trembling. "In that room, I always felt pain and headache. I..."

    Ms. Qing didn''t say a word. She slowly opened her notebook specifically for her patient''s log that was on her desk. She took down some notes about what Yan Mei was telling her.

    "Someone took me and made me stay in an empty room. There was no food, no water, and I have always been alone."

    Now, Yan Mei had a scared expression on her face. Her head was almost shaking as she suddenly stopped sharing, Ms. Qing furrowing her brows in worry as she had never seen an expression such as this on Yan Mei''s face.

    Yan Mei remembered that the wait inside that room made her anxious and, at the same time, happy. She was uneasy because she was alone in the room, and at the same time d since the man wasn''t back yet.

    She then remembered how the creaking of the door made her body cold even though there were times that she sweated to death inside of that room. Yan Mei felt cold sweat running down her back as her eyes started pooling tears.

    "N-no... the psycho... he''s haunting me."

    When Ms. Qing held her hand out of worry, Yan Mei immediately jolted in her seat as she instantly pulled her hand away from her, both of her hands covering her mouth as she almost shouted.

    "I-I''m sorry, Ms. Qing," Yan Mei apologized as she realized that it was her who held her, and not the man he feared. She sighed as she took deep breaths, trying her best to keep herposure in front of her therapist.

    "Mrs. Lei," Ms. Qing said, worry evident in her voice. "If I may ask, what is haunting you?"

    Yan Mei did not say a word as she stared nkly at the door. The voice of the man echoed in her head as she imagined what had happened years ago.

    "Did you miss me, little kitty?"

    "Mrs. Lei?"

    Ms. Qing looked at the door as if Yan Mei was talking to a person whom both of them cannot see. Yan Mei then averted her gaze on the door as the hands on her skirt tightened on its cloth.

    "Those are his words," she mumbled, Ms. Qing furrowing her brows in wonder.

    "Whose words, Mrs. Lei?"

    Yan Mei''s body stiffened as if she looked at Medusa, and the beastly snake had petrified her. She then looked at Ms. Qing, her eyes reflecting fear as she answered her therapist''s question.

    "Him. The psycho."

 Chapter 220 Canâ€™t hide

    <h4>Chapter 220 Can''t hide</h4>

    [WARNING: This chapter contains sensitive content. If ufortable, please skip.]

    *FLASHBACK*

    The room was dark--despondent of any human life other than the woman locked inside the room.

    Feng Mei felt warm as she curled into a ball, her wrists and her ankles wrapped in cable ties. Her lips slightly parted, her eyesight covered with a blindfold. She knew she was there for a long time, but she was unaware of the time as it was always dark and silent.

    The room was so silent, a person inside could even hear the water dropsing from the ceiling. Feng Mei could also feel and hear her heart throbbing in her chest.

    Feng Mei wondered how long she was here in the room since her kidnap. Deep down, she hoped that one of the people she knew woulde to look for her, but s, there was still no one.

    The moment the door creaked open, Feng Mei bit her lip as her body trembled. Her fists tightened, and she huddled in the corner of the room as if to escape from a monster.

    "Did you miss me, little kitty?"

    Feng Mei cowered in fear as his words echoed in the room. His resounding footsteps stopped in front of her. It made Feng Mei release some of her tears that pooled in her eyes.

    ''Go away, you psycho... go away!''

    Feng Mei begged in her thoughts as if praying to any god that could rescue her right at this moment. In her silence, the man maniacallyughed as hended a finger on her face, stiffening her whole body.

    "Why so silent, little kitty?"

    Feng Mei didn''t dare to make a sound. She knew that once she does, the psycho would mercilessly hit her. She felt cold sweat trickle down her spine when she felt the man y with the ends of her hair, his breath fanning over her cheek.

    "Do you know how long you''ve been here, little kitty?"

    Feng Mei still stayed silent. The manughed against her ear, Feng Mei jerking her head away as she felt ufortable with what he was doing.

    "It has been three days, little kitty. Are you hungry? Thirsty? You''ve grown thinner."

    The woman didn''t dare make a move. She knew she was hungry and thirsty, but she knew more than not to trust the man before him. How could she trust the person who kidnapped her?

    Whatever he gives her--food or water, she would dly decline them even though she knew her body is slowly weakening.

    "I-I..." she was stammering on her words. "I wouldn''t want to eat or drink anything that came from you," she said, almost in a whisper, but it was enough for the man to hear.

    With that, he chuckled as he got the take out that he got from behind him. He opened it, teasing Feng Mei with the smell of fried chicken from KFC and the sweet scent of the red iced tea.

    "Oh? Are you sure?"

    Feng Mei had to admit that the scent of the food was inviting because she knew that she didn''t eat even a single crumb for three days.

    She even forced herself not to drink water. Only when the psycho forced the water down her throat will she only be saved from her dehydration.

    "I''m treating you nicely. Why decline my hospitality, hmm?"

    Even with the fear Feng Mei had, she had the urge to scoff as she found what he said so stupid. She even had the energy to retort, immediately provoking the psycho.

    "Would a victim want anything from his or her kidnapper?"

    With the psycho scoffing, he got the drink from the paper bag, opened it, as he aggressively pulled Feng Mei by the hair, making her wince in pain as she felt some of her hair pulled from her scalp.

    "I''m already saving you from the brink of death! And you dare decline my kindness?"

    Feng Mei gritted her teeth. If only her wrists and ankles weren''t tied by cable ties, she would have done her best to punch or kick the man before her!

    "Feng Mei."

    Feng Mei''s body stiffened when she heard the man mention her name. Heughed evilly beside her ear as he whispered things that shook her judgments.

    "Do you think you''re so important in people''s lives?"

    Feng Mei''s body trembled as he felt the man getting some chunks of the chicken and shoving it forcefully in her mouth.

    "It has been three days, but no one is still looking for you!"

    Feng Mei felt her eyes watering. She slowly chewed her food as she knew that if she spat it out, the psycho would just force more in her mouth, punishing her.

    "Feng Mei, Feng Mei, Feng Mei... you are such a delusional woman, thinking that you would be capable of doing something big on your own!"

    Despite being blind folded with a cloth, she felt tears escaping in her eyes as the cloth in front of her eyes also dampened. The man before him chuckled once more, his voice traveling through Feng Mei''s ears to send shivers down her spine.

    "You think you''re so important, but you''re worthless. Remember this: that even though there would be a time that you''re out of my sight, I would hunt you down and make you remember every moment you had right in this very room."

    Feng Mei already started sobbing, making a sound even though she tried her best to stifle her cries. Seeing her reaction, the psychoughed as he tucked some of her hair at the side, hisst words chilling her to the very bone.

    "You can run, little kitty... but you can never hide."

    ***

    "No!"

    Yan Mei screamed at the top of her lungs as she crouched on the ground, her head hung low as she covered both of her ears. Her head was shaking furiously, making her therapist stand up in an instant to approach her.

    "Mrs. Lei--"

    "No, no! Go away! Don''t touch me!"

    At the same moment, the door of the office banged open. Lei Zhao rushed to his wife as he bent down to touch her, but the moment he did, Yan Mei hit his hand harshly, surprising him.

    "Yan Mei, it''s me. It''s me!"

    When she heard Lei Zhao''s words, Yan Mei slowly raised her head, showing her messy hair and distressed face. Not wanting to trigger her more, Lei Zhao slowly extended his hand towards her.

    Yan Mei seemed to be in a daze as tears continued flowing from her eyes, watching Lei Zhao''s handing towards her. The moment his handnded on her shoulder, Yan Mei daren''t move.

    Lei Zhao then pulled her in an embrace, Yan Mei wailing against his chest once more as the memories of the past continued to hunt her.

    "The psycho... he''sing. He''sing back. He''sing!"

    Author''s Note: Hiyo¡­. hope we are all good. Erm...so we are now revealing stuffs about YM''s past so every chapter from now is interconnected so patience if it seems slow. Heheeh also please don''t jump into conclusion so soon. We should know by now that conclusion doesn''t get along with this book hehehe.

    Remember to check out my sis book since she has been writing all the chappie this month hehe. The Soul Eater''s possession.

 Chapter 221 End you

    <h4>Chapter 221 End you</h4>

    "The psycho... he''sing. He''s going to find me."

    Yan Mei kept mumbling this statement until she fell asleep in Lei Zhao''s arms when he carried her to the therapist''s couch to let her rest.

    Lei Zhao sighed as he felt relieved that Yan Mei drifted off to sleep, but the pained expression on her face was still present. Lei Zhao heaved another sigh as he stood up, pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration.

    Because of that man sending them mysterious messages, it triggered something within Yan Mei. She was doing fine until now. However, those threats and those messages stirred everything up!

    Lei Zhao clicked his tongue as he ran his hand through his hair. If he could only get a few clues about the whereabouts of that man, he is going to make him suffer!

    Remembering the issue at hand, Lei Zhao faced Ms. Qing with worry in his eyes as he talked to her about Yan Mei''s mental state.

    "Ms. Qing... about my wife," Lei Zhao trailed off, "with the reaction that she showed, what can we infer from this and what should we do to make her feel better?"

    "Mr. Lei," Ms. Qing heaved a sigh as she also felt worried for her client''s mental state. "Without her saying much, I could deduce that Mrs. Lei''s abused in the past. Have you known something about this, Mr. Lei?"

    Lei Zhao furrowed his brows. He looked at Yan Mei, who was sleeping on the couch, then he returned his gaze on Ms. Qing to answer her question.

    "I don''t know the details, but I only know about her kidnap from her," he mumbled, but it was enough for the therapist to hear.

    "Then we could connect it from here. From that experience alone, we could say that the abuse happened during that time."

    Lei Zhao''s lips turned into a tight line as his fists at the sides balled tighter. He could not speak as his worry about Yan Mei grew by the second, wondering if there was any way to make her feel better.

    "If I may ask, Mr. Lei, what could have triggered this to make you two visit me?"

    Hearing the therapist''s question, Lei Zhao knew telling her was beneficial, so he told her what happened--to the text message, up until the video that he received. Knowing the following information, Ms. Qing took it down on her notes for further reference about her patient.

    "Ms. Qing." There were worry and anxiety evident in his voice. "What can you suggest to help? I''m worried about my wife."

    Letting out a small sigh, Ms. Qing gave Lei Zhao a small smile as she proceeded to talk to her patient''s husband.

    "Mr. Lei, all you have to do is to be by your wife''s side," she said, Lei Zhao, still not convinced that that was all it took to make Yan Mei feel better.

    "You see, I have asked her if she feels happy now, and all she talked about was you. If you keep continuing to be by her side, she will open up to you more and would depend on you to help her," she added, Lei Zhao, slowly nodding as he felt assured of what the therapist was saying.

    "Okay. I will have to make Yan Mei feel better until she feelsfortable enough to tell me anything, right?"

    Ms. Qing nodded, "Yes. Another thing. I would suggest for Mrs. Lei to take a few days off from work."

    Lei Zhao slowly nodded once more as he furrowed his brows, understanding why the therapist suggested taking a day off.

    "Since the sender probably knew where the two of us worked, it would be best to keep a distance for a while, right?"

    Ms. Qing nodded, "Yes. Going back to work may stress Mrs. Lei more. If she came back, who knows if the sender of both the message and the parcel would do."

    Hearing this, Lei Zhao sighed. He looked at Yan Mei again as he got his phone from his pocket, calling his secretary to investigate this matter once more.

    "Check which shippingpany gave us the parcel. Know who the sender is at all costs and its whereabouts."

    "Understood," his secretary said, Lei Zhao immediately ending the call then he put back his phone in his pocket.

    Lei Zhao then looked back at Ms. Qing and gave her an appreciative smile.

    "Thank you so much for today, Ms. Qing."

    Lei Zhao stood up, Ms. Qing standing up as well.

    "It is my job, Mr. Lei."

    Lei Zhao then walked towards his sleeping wife and had carried her bridal style, her eyebrows furrowing as she felt movement beneath her.

    "Nngh..."

    Seeing the difort on her face, Lei Zhao whispered against her ear, Yan Mei drifting off to sleep once more as she feltforted by her husband''s voice.

    "We''re going home. Rest."

    Ms. Qing then walked towards her door and opened it for Lei Zhao to exit the room. The moment he stepped out with Yan Mei in his arms, the therapist''s secretary internally swooned to see how doting Lei Zhao is to his wife, making her slightly jealous.

    ''Oh, I wish my husband is this caring and sweet!''

    With the therapist opening the passenger seat for Lei Zhao to secure Ya Mei, Ms. Qing waved at him as she bode him farewell.

    "Please do contact me, Mr. Lei, if something serious or disturbing were to happen. I would immediatelye."

    Lei Zhao nodded, "Thank you, Ms. Qing. I shall."

    With that, Lei Zhao entered the vehicle and drove off. Putting on his Bluetooth earphones, he then called Su Bei to inform her of Yan Mei having a few days off of work.

    "Lei Zhao?" There was wonder etched in Su Bei''s voice. "Is everything alright? You rarely call me when you''re with Yan Mei," she added, Lei Zhao, answering her question.

    "Something has happened. Yan Mei would need to take a few days off starting today. I would tell you the details soon when we get home."

    With that, Su Bei had no choice but to end the call earlier even though she grew worried for her friend. She had to take care of things in her absence, and she would have to wait until then for Lei Zhao to update her on what happened.

    The grip of Lei Zhao on the car''s steering wheel tightened as he clicked his tongue, anger stered in his eyes as he remembered how his wife had reacted earlier in the therapist''s office.

    ''Whoever you are and wherever you are, I''ll make sure to end you.''

    Lei Zhao promised himself as he nced at his sleeping wife in the mirror. She looked so vulnerable and he hated seeing her like this. She was so happy and everything seemed to be going well for them but suddenly the appearance of this psycho is haunting his wife.

    Lei Zhao remembered the parcel he received and stiffened for a while. He could still remember the video he saw. Since the person wanted him to see it, can it be rted to his wife?

    Judging from Yan Mei''s reaction, can it be¡­.

 Chapter 222 Hot husband

    <h4>Chapter 222 Hot husband</h4>

    Yan Mei slowly opened her eyes. The moment she did, she rubbed her eyes as the woman noticed the familiar ceiling that she was facing.

    ''I''m home?''

    Yan Mei looked left and right and noticed that she was on their bed. She slowly sat up as she felt slightly cold, the nket that was covering her falling at the sides.

    ''Wasn''t I with the therapist? How am I home?''

    "Oh, you''re finally awake?"

    Lei Zhao leaned on the doorframe. He crossed his arms in front of his chest as Yan Mei''s eyes scanned his body, up and down. Her eyes then blinked a few times when she noticed that Lei Zhao was wearing a pink heart apron over his suit.

    ''Th-this man... how can he look so dashing even with only wearing an apron over his suit?!''

    With her silence, Lei Zhao stepped into the room and sat at the side of the bed. He then put both of his hands on Yan Mei''s cheeks as he put soft kisses on her face. He started on the forehead, then on the nose, then both of her cheeks, thenstly on her lips.

    "Want to go down and eat, hmm?"

    With Lei Zhao''s hands still on her cheeks, Yan Mei''s eyebrows furrowed as her husband squeezed her cheeks, making her look like a chipmunk.

    "Why are we home?" she asked, her words coherent even though Lei Zhao was ying with her cheeks.

    "You slept during your session, so I had to bring you home," he answered, Yan Mei, raising a brow at him.

    "Oh?"

    "Never mind that." Now Lei Zhao yfully pinched Yan Mei''s nose, a grin appearing on his face. "You have more time with me as I told Su Bei that you would be having a few days off."

    "What!?"

    Yan Mei almost jumped out of their bed in shock. Lei Zhao chuckled as he watched Yan Mei panic, her hand running through her hair as she thought about the uing event that would happen.

    "But theunch! Theunch--"

    "Hush now, Wifey." Lei Zhao interrupted her by nting another kiss on her lips. "Why do you worry so much about theunch when you have already checked on it a hundred times?"

    "But--"

    Lei Zhao pouted like a child, slightly rolling his eyes at Yan Mei as he spoke like a boy throwing tantrums at his mother.

    "I feel jealous of thatunch now, oh... Pay more attention to your hot hubby in a frilly pink apron!"

    Yan Mei stared at her husband in disbelief. They just came from the therapist, so how could he act this way before her? Was he worried about her, so he reacted this way, or was there something serious that made him want to satisfy her like a queen?

    "Lei Zhao." Now it was Yan Mei''s turn to hold his face with both of her hands. "What happened? Why are we home, and why did you ask for a few days off?"

    With Yan Mei''s seriousness, Lei Zhao knew that he couldn''t lie to his beloved wife. He sighed as he held her hands, slowly putting it down as he stared straight into her beautiful eyes that reflected his worry.

    "The therapist suggested staying away from work, Wifey. Since you-know-who sent you a message and..."

    Lei Zhao stopped midway. He knew he could not lie to his wife, but if she knew that someone had sent him a parcel about a video, he would make Yan Mei worry more.

    Right here and then, it made him decide to only open about the parcel once Yan Mei opens about more details on her abduction.

    "And?"

    With Yan Mei''s voice snapping Lei Zhao out of his thoughts, he gave his wife a small smile as he tucked some of her hair behind her ear.

    "Since you-know-who sent you a message, who knows when he might visit your office unannounced. So, the therapist suggested that we stay out of work for a while until we have leads about him."

    Yan Mei stayed silent for a few seconds as she slowly nodded at what Lei Zhao had said. The man internally sighed as he was sessful in hiding the fact of the parcel from Yan Mei, but of course, as he promised to himself, he would have to tell her sooner orter once the timing is right.

    "Come on down with me now, Wifey," Lei Zhao said, lightening up the mood as he got Yan Mei''s hands in his. "I have cooked something delicious for us, and I want you to try it."

    Hearing the yful tone in his voice, Yan Mei slightly giggled as she nodded. Lei Zhao now grinned ear to ear as he stood up, helping Yan Mei up as the two of them now walked down the stairs on their way to the dining room.

    "So, what did you make?" Yan Mei asked, Lei Zhao swaying left and right as he felt excited to show his wife what he made.

    The moment they stepped into the dining room, Yan Mei''s eyes slightly widened. On the dining table, she saw a fried pork cutlet with ketchup on top of it, shaped into a heart. Caesar sd was also at the side and, a homemade blueberry cheesecake was also in the middle of the table.

    Yan Mei then looked at her husband who was standing beside her as he beamed at her like he had won in a raffle. He then extended his arms towards the table like he was a waiter, making Yan Meiugh as she walked towards her seat to sit down.

    "My, you did this while I was sleeping?" She then narrowed her eyes, "Or did you order this at thest minute before you checked up on me?"

    "No!" Lei Zhao scoffed, feigning pain as he held his chest. "How could you think that I did not do this or my beloved Wifey?"

    Yan Meiughed as she shook her head. She actually believed that Lei Zhao had done this for her. She just wanted to tease him since it was sweet of him to make this much effort just for her.

    Lei Zhao scooted over as he got the fork and knife beside her te. He then proceeded to slice her pork cutlet into small pieces, giving her one bite as well to make her try it.

    "This is just the beginning of our wonderful day off from work," Lei Zhao said, Yan Mei, continuing chewing on her food. "Tomorrow, we will go out, and I would surprise you!"

    Hearing this, Yan Meiughed.

    "How will I be surprised if you told me that you will surprise me?"

    "Oh, stop being witty," Lei Zhao said, feeding Yan Mei with another piece of pork. "If you tease me, I''ll surprise you by canceling our outing."

    "You wouldn''t" Yan Mei retorted as she pouted at him.

    Lei Zhao ruffled her hair and smiled.

    "Let''s eat."

    "Will you feed me?" Yan Mei blinked as she gave Lei Zhao an innocent look.

    Lei Zhao nodded and sigh

    "Alright."

    With that, there was jovialughter sounding in the dining room. Yan Mei and Lei Zhao continued being lovey-dovey as they ate their meals to their heart''s content.

 Chapter 223 I spy

    <h4>Chapter 223 I spy</h4>

    Lei Zhao had advised Yan Mei to wear her mostfortable clothes. Because of that, Yan Mei wore a simple white shirt tucked inside her denim blue shorts. She also wore her mostfortable sneakers and had tied her hair into a ponytail.

    As for Lei Zhao, he also wore a simple white shirt to match Yan Mei. He wore simple jeans and his mostfortable sneakers as well.

    The two of them stood side by side in front of the full-body mirror. Even though Lei Zhao and Yan Mei casually dressed, the clothes could not hide how attractive these two are.

    It was as if they were indeed a match made in heaven!

    As the two were admiring each other''s looks, they heard the sound of an engine outside their house.

    Yan Mei furrowed her brows, "Are we going out with someone else?" she asked, the two of them walking down the stairs to go open the door.

    "Oh, this is part of the surprise," Lei Zhao said, piquing Yan Mei''s curiosity further.

    The moment Lei Zhao opened the door, a personal butler from their other house opened the vehicle''s door. The moment he did, a little body came out of the car. He then immediately ran towards Yan Mei, surprising her as a wide grin appeared on her face.

    "Boo-boo!"

    Niu Niu ran and immediately embraced Yan Mei''s legs. Seeing this, Yan Meiughed as she bent down to carry the five-year-old little boy in her arms, nting many kisses on his cute face.

    "Niu Niu, it has been so long since I saw you!"

    "Me, too! Me, too!"

    Lei Zhao yfully rolled his eyes as he saw the two immediately talking to each other. He thanked the butler, making him leave in front of their house as he drove off, going home.

    "Ahem," Lei Zhao cleared his throat, "You didn''t even greet your uncle, Niu Niu."

    The little boy turned uninterestedly to his uncle and greeted him tly, saying: "Hello, uncle."

    Lei Zhao clicked his tongue when he heard the little boy''s lifeless greeting. Yan Meiughed out loud when she saw Lei Zhao''s reaction. She put Niu Niu down, knelt in front of him as he fixed the straps of his cute blue jumper.

    "Why did little Niu Niu decide to hang out with us, hmm?"

    "Oh! Uncle said he needed my help to make you happy, so I dly volunteered!"

    Hearing this, Yan Mei stood up, holding Niu Niu''s hand. She then looked at her husband beside her, raising a brow at him as she started appreciating the surprise done for her.

    "My, adding Niu Niu to your surprise indeed makes me curious about the next," shemented, Lei Zhao, winking at her teasingly.

    "Of course, you''d like anything that your Hubby ns," he says, now going out of the house to open his car''s door for their entry. "Now sit back and prepared to be amazed!"

    Yan Mei and Niu Niuughed as they exited the house, walking down the stairs to go to the garage. Once their abode is already secured enough, that''s when they had entered inside of the car.

    Niu Niu sat in the backseat. Yan Mei had secured him with the seatbelt. She then sat in the passenger''s seat as Lei Zhao revved the car to life, preparing to drive off.

    "Seatbelts?"

    "Check!"

    Niu Niu patted his seatbelt as Yan Mei fastened herself at the same time.

    "Jackets?"

    "At the back seat," Yan Mei answered, Niu Niu, tapping the folded jackets beside him.

    "First-Aid kit?"

    "At the trunk."

    "Great!"

    Now that everything that they needed was in the car, Lei Zhao did a reverse, then he drove off, already going to their destination.

    "So, where are we going?" Yan Mei asked him. Lei Zhao then looked at her from the corner of his eye.

    "No questions, just wait until we get there."

    yfully rolling her eyes at her husband, Yan Mei looked at Niu Niu from her side mirror and spoke to him.

    "Can Niu Niu tell Boo-boo where we''re going?"

    Niu Niu shook his head, his little voice ever so cute, answering Yan Mei.

    "No! I promised this would be a surprise because Uncle and I are going to make you happy!"

    Hearing his reply made Yan Mei giggle. She gave up asking questions as Lei Zhao continued to drive towards their destination.

    As each minute--or even a second passed by, Yan Mei had to admit that she grew more curious about Lei Zhao''s surprise. She felt like a child waiting expectantly, making her have the urge to ask each passing second if they were there yet.

    "Let''s y a game!"

    When Niu Niu''s little voice sounded in the car, Yan Mei''s attention was diverted to him, making her nod to y with the little boy.

    "Sure! What game?"

    "I spy!"

    Lei Zhao chuckled as he continued driving, "Then I''ll start," he said, the two expectantly waiting as they started staring out their window to watch out for clues on what Lei Zhao is about to say.

    "I spy... something green!"

    "Tree!"

    Yan Meiughed when she heard the excitement in Niu Niu''s voice. He shouted quite loudly when he said his answer, making Lei Zhaough as well.

    "Come on!" Niu Niu pouted, "You know I''m smart! Say something challenging!"

    "I spy--"

    "No, Uncle! You look down on me! I want Boo-boo!"

    Lei Zhao''s eyebrow twitched as he was interrupted by his nephew. Yan Mei couldn''t help butugh at the two as they started arguing like they were the same age.

    "Okay, okay," she got their attention, now looking outside the window until she saw a beautiful cloud. "I spy something pretty and soft."

    "You!"

    Lei Zhao and Niu Niu answered in unison, making Yan Mei blink her eyes a few times. She startedughing, her head almost tipping up as she did not expect them to give that answer.

    "No, both of you are wrong!"

    "Whaaaaat?"

    Yan Mei stifled herugh, "I was talking about a cloud, but thank you for the answer, anyway. I''ll take it as apliment."

    When they were told that the answer was a cloud, the two boys alsoughed then they continued doing their game of I Spy.

 Chapter 224 Disney land

    <h4>Chapter 224 Disneynd</h4>

    The drive going to their destination was lively. The three, Lei Zhao, Yan Mei, and Niu Niu, kept ying I Spy until Niu Niu suggested to y Word Games.

    From afar, however, Yan Mei saw therge billboard of Disnend, beckoning the passersby. Seeing the billboard of Disnend, Yan Mei turned her body to look at Lei Zhao.

    "Are we going to Disnend?" she asked, Lei Zhao, nodding as Niu Niu excitedly giggled.

    "She was not surprised now," hemented, Lei Zhao, chuckling as he continued driving.

    "We could not hide the billboard. It was unavoidable," Lei Zhao said, Yan Mei, grinning ear to ear.

    Even as a child, she did not go to Disnend. She wanted to go when she was young, even when Yan Mei was younger, but she didn''t always get the chance to.

    Minutes turned into seconds for Yan Mei. She immediately went silent as she gaped at the beckoning wee sigh of the themed park. Even Lei Zhao and Niu Niu happily grinned when they saw the eager look on Yan Mei''s face.

    Since it was the weekend, Lei Zhao knew beforehand that the themed park is going to be jam-packed. He then contacted one of the managers of Disnend to reserve a parking space in advance.

    Lei Zhao parked his car. The moment he did, even Yan Mei was the one excited to go out. She was the one who got off first. She then immediately opened the door to get Niu Niu out.

    Seeing this excited reaction, Lei Zhaoughed as he shook his head, securing the car before the three of them would walk inside the themed park.

    Yan Mei and Niu Niu were holding each other''s hands as they walked ahead of Lei Zhao. Seeing this, he slightly pouted as he walked in widened strides to catch up to them.

    "Guys, tie your jackets around your waist," Lei Zhao told them as if instructing them like they are his father. "You wear thister when it starts to get chilly."

    With his instruction, Lei Zhao tied his jacket around his waist, then wrapped Yan Mei''s jacket around hers. She then bent down as she tied Niu Niu''s jacket around his waist as well.

    The three of them looked like a family of three. Even the other people in the theme park gawked at them as they saw them like they''re a family of models!

    "Oh, what do we ride, what do we ride?"

    Yan Mei was biting her lip after she spoke, trying her best to stifle her excitement. She saw the roller coasters, the Ferris wheel, the log ride, the bump car, and the other various rides found in the theme park!

    One of the things she wanted to try, however, was the roller coaster of the theme park. From afar, she would see it as something fearful because she somewhat feared heights, but then, she would, at the same time, like to try how it felt like to try the ride.

    "Boo-boo, can we try the one with the ne?"

    Being snapped from her thoughts from hearing the little boy''s voice, Yan Mei looked in the direction of Niu Niu''s finger. He was pointing at a ride with eight nes, slowly circling as it moved up and down. It was suitable for children like him.

    Not wanting to be selfish about wanting to try the rides that got her interest, Yan Mei smiled at Niu Niu as she nodded, looking at Lei Zhao at the same time.

    "Niu Niu and I will ride that one. Is it okay for you to keep watch?"

    Lei Zhao nodded as he crossed his arms in front of his chest. He slightly pouted as he felt that Niu Niu is already getting his wife from him.

    "Yes, but after this, we ride something where I could, too."

    With that, the three had already arrived in front of the ne ride. Yan Mei had talked to the ride watcher, and Niu Niu chose the red ne where he and Yan Mei could sit.

    Yan Mei put on the safety belts on them. They waited for a few minutes for other riders to upy the seats before the watcher could start the ride.

    Yan Mei smiled at Lei Zhao and gave him a wave hello as he watched them together.

    "Say hi to your uncle," Yan Mei said, making Niu Niu do so.

    "Hi, Uncle! Boo-boo is mine!"

    The other ridersughed when they heard what the child had said. Even Lei Zhao clicked his tongue as he felt a little annoyed with how Niu Niu was intentionally annoying him by hogging Yan Mei for himself!

    Seeing the annoyed look on Lei Zhao''s face, Yan Meiughed, showing her beautiful perfect teeth.

    ''How can this man be annoyed at such a little boy such as him? He''s cute, acting like a child!''

    At the same moment, the ride watcher had announced that he would already be starting the ride. He reminded them to secure their belts for their safety.

    When the rider hit the button on, the ride started revving to life. The cranes of the ride moved up and down, making the children riding with their guardians feel excited as it went around in circles.

    Niu Niu started giggling. He couldn''t contain his giddiness as the ride went up and down, the wind kissing their skin. Yan Mei smiled at him as she patted the top of his head, happy to see him enjoying.

    "Are you having fun?"

    "Yes, Boo-boo!" Niu Niu embraced Yan Mei with his soft, cute arms, "I want to ride more rides with youter, can I?"

    Yan Mei giggled as she continued patting Niu Niu''s head, "Of course!"

    With them having fun like this, Lei Zhao''s lips curled into a smile. He was happy that Yan Mei was starting to feel at ease despite what had happened in the therapist''s room. He was d that bringing Niu Niu along with them helped in taking the worry out of Yan Mei''s mind.

    It was then that Lei Zhao decided that he would do his best in these days off to make her happy while he was busy in the shadows looking for the psychotic man.

 Chapter 225 Beautiful memories

    <h4>Chapter 225 Beautiful memories</h4>

    The moment the ne ride had ended, Yan Mei had carefully supported Niu Niu as he slowly came down from the ride. The two then approached Lei Zhao, waiting for them patiently.

    "That was fun! I get to ride with Niu Niu!"

    Lei Zhao smiled when he saw his nephew smile. He may be jealous that he was alone with his wife on a ride, but Lei Zhao was genuinely happy to see Niu Niu smile, especially when he saw his wife''s smile on her face.

    "What do you want to try next?"

    Yan Mei looked at the rides around them. Her eyesnded on the rollercoaster, and there was instantly eagerness in her eyes! But then, she suddenly remembered that she was with Niu Niu, so going on a ride on a rollercoaster is not advisable.

    Putting her interests at the side and wanting Niu Niu to have fun as well, Yan Mei held his hand.

    "What do you want to try next, Niu Niu?"

    "Hmm..."

    The little boy wondered for a while. His eyes scanned as he looked at the rides present in Disnend. He wanted to try the Merry-Go-Round, then he also wanted to try the Ferris wheel.

    But then, when Niu Niu''s eyes heard the faint screens andughter from afar, his eyes widened in excitement as he watched what was happening.

    There was a rink on the far side of the park. He saw the cars bumping each other as they drove for an attack. Seeing this made his heart race, looking at both his uncle and his Boo-boo.

    "Uncle, Boo-boo, can we try that?"

    Lei Zhao and Yan Mei looked in the direction where Niu Niu was pointing. Yan Mei''s eyebrows slightly furrowed when she realized that it was bump cars.

    "Hmm... Lei Zhao, can we participate in that kind of ride with Niu Niu? Isn''t it going to be scary for the little boy?"

    Niu Niu pouted his lips, "But I want to try... look at the other child, she is with her parent."

    When Niu Niu pointed out this justification, Lei Zhao and Yan Mei now thought that they were able to do bump car if the child has a guardian with him or her.

    "Do you want to try?" Lei Zhao asked, Yan Mei, grinning, her eyes twinkling at the same time as she found the idea exciting.

    "Oh, can we?"

    "Sure!" Lei Zhao nodded, "Niu Niu and I could--"

    "I will team up with Boo-boo, and we''ll make sure beat Uncle up!"

    Lei Zhao''s eyebrow slightly twitched as he clicked his tongue, "Tsk... Niu Niu, you--"

    "Sure! Let''s gang up and hit your uncle with all your might!"

    Forget being interrupted two times. His mouth was instantly agape when he unexpectedly heard what his wife had said!

    ''Hit me with all their might? Are they serious!?''

    With Yan Mei immediately walking towards the rink with Niu Niu, Lei Zhao had no choice but to follow. He heaved a small sigh as he saw them already talking to the ride watcher, Yan Mei pointing at Lei Zhao to tell the watcher that he was with them.

    Yan Mei and Niu Niu ran to the car of their choice. They chose the red bump car and had put on their safety seat belts, Yan Mei making sure that Niu Niu is secured.

    "Now, be Boo-boo''s eyes, okay?" she said, Niu Niu, giggling as he nodded.

    "Yes!" The two of them saw Lei Zhao sitting on a blue bump car, Niu Niu squinting his eyes as he shaped his fingers into a small gun, aiming it at Lei Zhao. "Uncle: target locked on!"

    It took them a minute for them to upy all the bump cars. The moment the watcher told them that they are about to start, the siren of the rink roared, making everyone''s heart race in excitement.

    "Hang on, Niu Niu!"

    Now all the cars started moving. Lei Zhao gritted his teeth as he saw Yan Mei beginning to getpetitive, her eyes on his car to make sure to at least hit him.

    "Uncle is going away! Uncle is going away!"

    Not wanting to hit his beloved wife''s car as he was worried about hurting both of them even though he knew that this was just a game, Yan Mei yfully rolled her eyes at him as she shouted, getting the others'' attention as well.

    "This is a bump car! Not escape car! What are you doing!?"

    The others who were watchingughed as Yan Mei shouted at Lei Zhao at the top of her lungs. Even Lei Zhao couldn''t help butugh when he heard this.

    "Fine," he mumbled to himself, "You asked for this!"

    Lei Zhao abruptly turned his bump car around, surprising the others as he bumped them, driving fast towards Yan Mei''s car.

    "Boo-boo, Boo-boo! Uncle is charging! He''s charging!"

    Yan Mei grinned, "Oh, yeah? You think I''d avoid you?"

    Yan Mei charged forward as well, avoiding some bump cars that was on her way. She did a circle as she targetted to hit Lei Zhao''s car from behind, swerving back and forth to distract him with the help of the other bump cars.

    Already reading her pattern, Lei Zhao smirked as he did a U-turn, avoiding Yan Mei''s attack. With her eyes widening, it was Lei Zhao who had hit Yan Mei''s car, making the twough as they jumped on their seats.

    "Niu Niu, you''ll regret why you didn''t team up with your uncle," Lei Zhao said, Niu Niu, sticking out his tongue at him.

    "That doesn''t matter! Because I get to be with Niu Niu!"

    Hearing this, Yan Meiughed as she reversed the car, Lei Zhao gritting his teeth as he did not expect the retort of the little boy.

    "Yeah? Don''te crying to meter, Niu Niu!"

    "Whatever, old man!"

    "O-old?"

    The others who were watchingughed as they listened to the cute conversation of the three. The session of the bump car continued, making Yan Mei feel persistent to make at least one hit on Lei Zhao''s car.

    It was all fun and games for the three in this big Disnend adventure. It was indeed going to be one of the memorable memories that they are going to remember in the future.

    However, little did they know that they were being watched from afar by a man whom they were avoiding from the start...

 Chapter 226 Blessing

    <h4>Chapter 226 Blessing</h4>

    The session in the bump car already ended. It ended with Lei Zhao winning against them as he enjoyed driving and had avoided most of Yan Mei''s attacks and had counterattacked most of them.

    All of them were already walking away from the rink, Yan Meiughing as she saw the pouting face of Niu Niu.

    "I''m sorry we couldn''t win against your uncle, Niu Niu," Yan Mei apologized, reaching out to his face to pinch his little nose.

    "It''s okay, Niu Niu," he mumbled, narrowing his eyes at Lei Zhao, "Uncle is just childish to want to win against us because I am stealing you away from him."

    Hearing that, Yan Meiughed out loud as Lei Zhao rolled his eyes at Niu Niu.

    "Oh, hush it," he scolded him, a grin appearing on his face. "Now you regret teaming up with Boo-boo, don''t you?"

    "No!" Niu Niu''s lips curled into a teasing smirk, "I told you, it doesn''t matter because I have Boo-boo to myself!"

    Niu Niu stuck out his tongue, Yan Mei, shaking her head as she looked at Lei Zhao.

    "It''s 11 AM. Shall we have an early lunch so we won''t get caught up in the rush hour?" Yan Mei suggested, making her husband nod in agreement as he looked at his wristwatch.

    "Yeah, we should." He looked at his nephew, "What do you want to eat, Niu Niu?"

    The little boy contemted for a while. He put his finger on his cheek as he silently thought of the food that he wanted to eat.

    "I want red pasta, and I also want ice cream."

    Hearing what Niu Niu said, Lei Zhao and Yan Mei saw Team Disney Diner where they could order their food. The three of them walked towards the diner, Lei Zhao choosing their tables and seats as the three sat down to order their food.

    Lei Zhao had ordered what Niu Niu wanted. For Yan Mei, he got her burger and fries, and as for Lei Zhao, he got himself a club sandwich.

    "After these, which rides do you want to ride next? Before evening strikes, we need to check-in the hotel and have a rest," Lei Zhao asked and said, Niu Niu''s eyes twinkling as he looked at the woman beside him.

    "I want to ride the carousel with Boo-boo! I also want to ride the Ferris wheel with Boo-boo!"

    Hearing this, Yan Mei giggled, then she nted a kiss on top of Niu Niu''s head.

    "Sure! We will ride those with your uncle, alright?"

    Niu Niu pouted his lips, "With Uncle? So boring..."

    Lei Zhao''s eyebrow twitched. He had invited him so he could help in making Yan Mei happy. Now Lei Zhao is thinking if it was right to bring him along and if he was acting childish for being jealous of a little boy!

    "Niu Niu,ter you sleep on your bed in the room, alright? Boo-boo and I will--"

    "Why!?" There was suddenly a sad expression on his face, trying his best to look cute and pitiful in front of Yan Mei. "It is Niu Niu''s first time sleeping with Boo-boo. Why can''t I sleep beside you guys?"

    Lei Zhao stared at Niu Niu, feeling slightly immature as he felt annoyed at his nephew.

    "Because Niu Niu, uncle, and Boo-boo are married. We stay in one bed so I could have my Wifey in my arms."

    "No!" Niu Niu crossed his arms in front of his chest, "Boo-boo will embrace me while sleeping! Boo-boo likes me best while I''m around!"

    Lei Zhao narrowed his eyes at his nephew''s behavior.

    "You already hogged her for yourself during the rides. Didn''t you get enough?"

    "Oh?" Niu Niu feigned ignorance as he cocked his head to the side, pretending to be innocent. "But I am just a little boy~! Don''t you think that adults should understand what little children like me wants?"

    "Oh, you..."

    Listening to their conversation made Yan Meiugh. She took a sip of her iced tea that came first, then patted Niu Niu''s head as she spoke.

    "Niu Niu can sleep with us on the bed, okay? Let your uncle sleep with us because I also want to sleep with your uncle. Okay?"

    Niu Niu was silent for a while. He looked at Yan Mei, his uncle, then he sighed, his lips pouting slightly.

    "Fine... since Boo-boo said she wanted to sleep with Uncle, too, I would have to allow it and share my Boo-boo."

    ''Sh-share your Boo-boo?'' Lei Zhao thought, ''Is Yan Mei yours?''

    At the same moment, their food had already arrived. Lei Zhao, Yan Mei, and Niu Niu had to admit when they saw the food served in front of them, that was the only time that they felt that they were hungry.

    Yan Mei got the table napkin from the table and had inserted it in Niu Niu''s shirt for him not to dirty himself as he ate. Yan Mei started mixing his pasta for him, and when she finished, she gave the fork to Niu Niu, then the little boy started eating.

    "Eat slowly, Niu Niu," his uncle said as he watched him eating his pasta fast. "You have to chew properly."

    "Yesh, uncle," Niu Niu said, Yan Mei slightly giggling as she wiped the corner of his mouth.

    "Don''t talk with your mouth full, Niu Niu."

    Niu Niu nodded as he listened to both Lei Zhao and Yan Mei. He started slowing down on his food and only spoke when he finished chewing his food.

    Lei Zhao and Yan Mei also started eating their lunch. The three of them had a conversation about what else they would do before they go back to the hotel.

    As time went on, and as Yan Mei continued spending time with them, she realized that her husband Lei Zhao had been doing such great efforts tofort her and to divert her from what worries her most.

    Right here and then, it was then that she also realized that she is indeed blessed of having a man such as Lei Zhao.

 Chapter 227 Amaze you

    <h4>Chapter 227 Amaze you</h4>

    It was already evening, and Lei Zhao, Yan Mei, and Niu Niu stayed at the hotel near Disnend and had eaten dinner there. The three were already in the hotel room, Yan Mei and Niu Niu watching TV.

    Lei Zhao was out on the balcony. He was doing some calls for thepany and also asking for some updates in the investigation.

    Yan Mei and Niu Niu were on the bed. The little boy was watching a movie while Yan Mei was busy watching Lei Zhao talking to someone on the phone.

    ''He looks so focused... who is he talking to?''

    "Boo-boo..."

    Yan Mei snapped out of her thoughts as Niu Niu got her attention.

    "What is it?"

    "I''m getting sleepy..."

    Niu Niu rubbed his eyes as he yawned, Yan Mei smiling as she pulled the sheets, tucking Niu Niu in the bed.

    "Then go to sleep. Boo-boo and your uncle will be here and will sleep in a while," she said, Niu Niu sleepily looking at Yan Mei with droopy eyes.

    "Can you tell me a story that you love, Boo-boo?"

    "Oh!"

    Hearing this from him, the title of a Filipino author''s poem suddenly popped into her mind. It was entitled "Bad of a Mother''s Heart" by Jose La Vi Tierra.

    She had read this before when she had an interest in reading books. She bought a book with a collection of poems. When she read the book, she read the poem by Jose La Vi Tierra, making her love her poem in an instant.

    "Boo-boo?"

    Yan Mei smiled as she realized that she was in her thoughts again.

    "I''ll tell you about a mother''s love. Is that okay?"

    Niu Niu nodded, "Anything that Boo-boo tells me, I would love it!"

    Yan Mei nodded as she started patting Niu Niu''s small body. She then spoke each line of the poem in verbatim. Since she loved the poem, she knew each line at heart.

    "The night was dark, for the moon was young. And the stars were asleep and rare; The clouds were thick, yet Youth went out. To see his Maiden fair."

    Niu Niu furrowed his brows, "What does that mean, Boo-boo?"

    Yan Mei smiled, "It means that the boy went out to see his girlfriendte at night."

    "Oh!"

    Yan Mei nodded, then she continued saying the next stanzas of the poem.

    "''Dear One,'' he pleaded as he knelt. Before her feet, in tears, ''My love is true; why have you kept me waiting all these years?'' The maiden looked at him unmoved, it seemed, and whispered low:

    ''Persistent Youth, you have to prove by deeds your love is true.''"

    Niu Niu smiled as he understood what the poem was saying.

    "Is the girlfriend challenging the youth?"

    Yan Mei nodded, "Yes! Smart, Niu Niu!"

    Niu Niu giggled as Yan Mei slightly pinched his nose topliment him. She then continued the narration of the poem, Niu Niu intently listening to her.

    "''There''s not a thing I would not do for you, Beloved,'' said he. ''Then go,'' said she, ''to your mother dear and bring her heart to me.''"

    Niu Niu gasped, "Oh! Is the youth going to take her mother''s heart?"

    Yan Mei put a finger in front of Niu Niu to silence him. She did not answer his question, but she continued telling him the next stanzas of the poem.

    "Without another word, Youth left and went to his mother dear. And opened her breast and took her heart. He did not shed a tear! Then back to his Maiden fair he ran, unmindful of the rain; but his feet slipped and he fell down, and loud he groaned with pain!"

    "Hmph!" Niu Niu harrumphed, "It''s his karma! How could he take his mother''s heart?"

    Giggling, Yan Mei hushed him once more, continuing the next part of the poem.

    "Still in his hand, he held the prize. That would win his Maiden''s hand; And he thought of his mother dear, so kind, so sweet, so fond. And then he heard a voice, not from his lips but all apart: ''Get up,'' it said; ''Were you hurt, Child?'' It was his mother''s heart."

    "Wow!" Niu Niu furrowed his brows when Yan Mei had finished telling him the poem. "Even though the son took her heart, the mother still cared for him!"

    "Yes," Yan Mei agreed, continuing to pat Niu Niu''s body to help him sleep. "Now, Niu Niu, let this be a lesson and a reminder. Respect your parents and your elders. Always remember that no one can beat the love of a mother who loves her child."

    Niu Niu yawned, slowly nodding at Yan Mei who continued to pat his sides.

    "I will always remember that, Boo-boo," he sleepily replied, his eyes closing. Yan Mei giggled as she found it cute for Niu Niu to be so active, then suddenly quickly falling asleep.

    "Good night and sweet dreams, Niu Niu," Yan Mei whispered as she kissed his forehead, Yan Mei slowly sitting up as she watched him for a few seconds.

    He just asked her to tell her a story, but she did not expect to share the poem that she loved the most about a mother''s love.

    She somehow felt mncholic, but the moment she felt arms wrapping around her waist, she was surprised to see Lei Zhao giving her a back hug.

    "He fell asleep?" Lei Zhao asked as he rested his chin on her shoulder. Yan Mei nodded as she slowly turned her body to face him, her arms wrapped around his neck.

    "Want to hang out on the balcony for a while before we go to bed, hmm?"

    Lei Zhao chuckled as he nodded. He gave Yan Mei a kiss on the lips, Yan Mei smiling at him afterward as they locked eyes with each other.

    "You never cease to amaze me, Lei Zhao," sheplimented him, Lei Zhao grinning ear to ear as he liked herpliment.

    "I would always continue to amaze you, Yan Mei," he said, now holding her hand. "Want some hot drink before going to bed?"

    "Mm," Yan Mei nodded, "On the balcony. Order one small cake, too, please?"

    Lei Zhao and Yan Mei then walked to the balcony as Lei Zhao called for room service. The two of them finally had some time alone after having fun with the little Niu Niu.

 Chapter 228 Get married

    <h4>Chapter 228 Get married</h4>

    "I don''t get it! Why don''t you want to marry your fiance?"

    Wang Lu''s mother visited his son in thepany. Wang Lu continued to type on hisptop and continued his work as he ignored his mother''s nag of making him marry his fiance.

    "Are you listening to me!?"

    "Yes, mom," Wang Lu said, obviously disinterested, "I''m listening to you."

    "You are not!"

    Feeling annoyed with his son''s attitude, Wang Lu''s mother went in front of his son''s desk and had immediately closed hisptop screen.

    Wang Lu slightly rolled his eyes at his mother as he heaved a small sigh, looking up at her meet her eyes.

    "Mom, how could you disturb me at work?"

    Wang Lu''s mother scoffed as she crossed her arms in front of her chest.

    "I could disturb you any time I want! I am asking you to listen to your mother and to get married already!"

    Wang Lu ran his hand through his hair, feeling frustrated with how his mother kept asking him to get married. She''s been forcing Wang Lu to marry his fiance, but Wang Lu didn''t want to since his heart still clings on to someone whom he couldn''t get.

    Yan Mei.

    Wang Lu looked at his mother with a hint of pain in his eyes, "I don''t want to get married, mom. No matter how much you beg me to, I wouldn''t want to."

    Wang Lu''s mother rolled her eyes at his son.

    "If you''re not going to marry your fiance, how are you going to help thepany prosper?"

    Wang Lu opened hisptop, heaved another sigh, then started typing again.

    "Thepany can prosper with only my capability. We don''t need to depend on someone else."

    "Wang Lu..."

    His mother''s voice sounded desperate. She sat on the seat in front of her son''s desk. Her eyes looked pitiful as she furrowed her brows, staring at his son to look like a mother who had suddenly turned weak.

    "Please listen to your mother... other than thepany, I want you to marry, and I want you to have a child, then I could have a grandchild. We could have a sessor for thepany!"

    "En." Wang Lu nodded, "But I would have to think of that when I already feel like it is the perfect timing."

    "Perfect timing? Perfect timing?"

    His mother''s voice sounded sarcastic. She rolled her eyes at him again, a scoffing from her.

    "You think we need the perfect timing? Aren''t you just using that as an excuse?"

    Wang Lu continued typing on hisptop. He wanted so badly to talk back to his mother, but still, even with how annoyed he was, he wanted to show her his respect. He may have wanted her out of his office, but he could only listen to her and turn her down properly.

    "I''m not, mom," he said, no longer being able to hide his hint of annoyance. "I just want to take things slowly and wait before I get married again."

    Wang Lu''s mother''s lips turned into a tight line. She stared at her son, making Wang Lu face her with what she said.

    "Don''t tell me you''re still clinging on your ex-wife."

    Wagn Lu''s fingers stopped typing. He looked at his mother as if she had hit a bull''s eye, making his mother shake her head in disappointment as Wang Lu''s reaction had already said a lot.

    "I knew it. I knew that you--"

    "Mom, stop."

    This time, Wang Lu had no more energy to fight against his mother. He sighed as he stared straight back at her eyes, his words firm as he talked again.

    "I want you to leave me alone to work. Please."

    With Wang Lu diverting his attention on hisptop once more, his mother just heaved another sigh as she stood up abruptly, the chair that she sat on making noise as she did.

    "Fine. If thepany falls, then it would be your fault."

    With her heels cking on his office floor and with the door closing right behind her, Wang Lu released a sigh of relief as his mother had now finally left the room.

    Wang Lu stopped typing for a while as he slumped on his chair, not caring about his posture. He felt his head aching now that his mother left the office.

    He took the ss of water from his table. He opened his drawer to get some of his medicine to ease his headache. He popped the pill inside, drank the water, then pinched the bridge of his nose afterward as he closed his eyes.

    ''Mother can be so condescending... why doesn''t she just mind her own business?''

    Wang Lu opened his eyes as he stared out the window. He didn''t have thoughts of getting married as the memory of his ex-wife still lingered.

    But then, if he didn''t want to get married, he would have to look for alternate ways to boost theirpany without the involvement of marriage. He would have to look for ways not to be involved with his fiance.

    "Mr. Wang Lu?"

    A knock sounded from his door. When Wang Lu heard his assistant''s voice, he came back to his senses, signaling his assistant to enter the office.

    "Come in."

    With the signal heard, his assistant opened the door. The assistant entered the room then walked in front of his boss''s desk. The moment he was in front of him, he gave a small bow and handed him a folder.

    "Someone has been stalking Yan Mei in the shadows, Mr. Wang."

    "What?"

    Hearing this from his assistant, it was as if Wang Lu had woken up from his peaceful sleep. His body was on full alert as he opened the folder, revealing Yan Mei''s stalker.

    He took the photo in his hand, and when his eyes and mind had finally adjusted, he remembered who the man in the picture was.

    Due to his shock, the photo fell on the floor. His hands started trembling as his heart also started racing in fear.

    ''I thought I killed this man? How can he be alive?''

 Chapter 229 Donâ€™t call my wife

    <h4>Chapter 229 Don''t call my wife</h4>

    The photo that the assistant brought was still on the floor. Wang Lu stared at it in a daze. He couldn''t help his body trembling in fear, and he couldn''t help his hands forming into tight fists.

    He remembered that he had done what he could just for the man in the photo was dead. If the man in the photograph turned out to be him now, could that mean that all his efforts were in vain?

    "G-get that photo away from me. Now!"

    Wang Lu''s voice started to stammer, but when he shouted his order at the assistant, his voice roared in the room, surprising him.

    "Y-yes, Mr. Wang Lu."

    The assistant quickly picked up the photo from the floor and had put it inside the folder. He then gave his boss another bow as he exited his office, closing the door so he could leave him alone.

    Wang Lu stood up from his seat. He then walked to and fro in his office as he frustratingly bit his lip, feeling uneasy with what he had heard from his assistant.

    ''If he is now stalking Yan Mei, could that mean that his life is in danger again?''

    Wang Lu stopped in his tracks. His hands at the sides turned into tight fists as he remembered how Yan Mei was years ago.

    ***

    *shback*

    "Feng Mei."

    Wang Lu finally found her, but it was as if she was apletely different person.

    When they had removed the cable ties that tied both of her wrists and ankles, they proceeded to remove the blindfold.

    The moment they did, Wang Lu saw her lifeless eyes. He scanned her body and noticed the bruises on her.

    Wang Lu''s eyebrows furrowed. When he was about to reach out to her, Feng Mei reacted by fear.

    "Go away! Stay back! Go away!"

    She quickly crawled to the edge of the wall, embracing both of her knees. Tears uncontrobly started falling from her eyes, immediately staining her cheeks as it continuously flowed.

    Wang Lu''s heart broke when he saw Feng Mei act this way. It was as if she was a kitten beaten to death, fearing everything that may touch her.

    Wang Lu then knelt as he extended his hands to carry her. But the moment Feng Mei was in his arms, she fought with all her might as she kept hitting his back, iling both of his arms and legs for her release.

    "Don''t touch me, don''t touch me... Don''t touch me!!!!"

    ***

    Remembering that even from the past, made Wang Lu''s eyes water. He put his hand on his mouth as if to stifle his cry. He knew that he is at work, and he knew that people mighte to visit his office at any moment.

    But with the psychoing into vision once more, how could he feel at ease?

    It was difficult for them to get Yan Mei back at her feet. She was even addicted to drugs back then and had been having episodal attacks of the abuse during her kidnap.

    With him returning now, if what his assistant had said turned out to be correct, then it could mean that Yan Mei may have another set of triggers again!

    Wang Lu gritted his teeth. He started feeling uneasy again as he walked in his office back and forth, contemting whether he should talk to her or not.

    He looked at the time and noticed that it was already 8 in the evening and that he was still in the office. Probably at this time, Yan Mei could still be working if she wanted to since theunch of herpany would being soon.

    With that in thought, Wang Lu heaved another sigh. He then walked towards his window that overlooked the other buildings and the night view. He got his phone from his pocket, then opened his contacts to see Yan Mei''s number.

    ''I have to warn her. I have to tell her and warn her at least,'' Wang Lu thought to herself, clicking on her number to make a call.

    The ringing of the call made him grow anxious by the second. He started tapping his feet uncontrobly, and when the ring had finally stopped, it was an indication that his call connected.

    "F-Feng Mei."

    Wang Lu immediately said her name. His heart started racing because it had been a long time since he talked with Yan Mei. With her answering the call, he would have to tell her what he knows once and for all.

    "He''s back. I wanted to tell you that he''s back. I want you to know that your life may be in danger and that he may be stalking you again! Feng Mei, you have to believe me. You have--"

    "I know. You don''t need to call my wife. And you don''t have to watch over her."

    ''What?''

    With his statement being interrupted and without even having the chance to reply, the call immediately ended. Wang Lu was stunned when he heard another man''s voice on the other end of the conversation.

    Wang Lu blinked his eyes a few times in disbelief. Wang Lu looked at his call log to see if he made sure that he called Yan Mei, and he was right!

    He knew that he could never have the wrong number, so could this mean that it was another person who answered him instead?

    Is Yan Mei with another man?

    Wang Lu''s eyebrows furrowed.

    "I don''t need to call his wife, and I don''t need to watch over her?"

    Wang Lu mumbled to himself, the word "wife" running in his thoughts over and over again.

    "Feng Mei... doesn''t need to know?"

    Wang Lu furrowed his brows. He now felt confused as ever. With the pieces of evidence of the psycho still lurking in their lives and with another man answering his call, now Wang Lu wasn''t sure of how to feel.

    Anger, worry, or jealousy?

    Or maybe everything at the same time.

 Chapter 230 Beautiful moon

    <h4>Chapter 230 Beautiful moon</h4>

    Yan Mei went to the bathroom to have a quick body shower. Lei Zhao still stayed on the balcony as he drank the coffee he ordered, waiting for his wife.

    It was almost 9 PM, but they wanted to have some alone time together while the little Niu Niu is now fast asleep.

    Even though it is just hanging out on this hotel''s balcony, it was enough as long as they are spending time together.

    That''s all that mattered.

    A sweet smile had shed Lei Zhao''s face. He''s finally happy to be with Yan Mei after Niu Niu hogged her to himself.

    He had to admit that he was jealous. However, he could do nothing about it since Niu Niu is indeed a child.

    As Lei Zhao wandered in his thoughts, suddenly, Yan Mei''s phone on the table buzzed, making him look at her phone screen.

    He respected privacy. However, with it being an unsaved number and with what is happening between them because of the mysterious man, how could Lei Zhao leave the phone alone?

    ''It might be him.''

    Lei Zhao quickly picked up Yan Mei''s phone. He stared at it for a few seconds while it was ringing until he got the courage to put his finger on the screen to answer the call.

    He put the phone against his ear. The moment the call connected, the person on the other line suddenly began to speak, not even greeting the owner of the phone hello.

    "F-Feng Mei."

    Lei Zhao''s eyebrow twitched. It was the voice of a man. Who is he? But based on his voice, it was someone familiar, and because Lei Zhao is so keen, he immediately knew who it was.

    It was Wang Lu, Yan Mei''s ex-husband.

    "He''s back. I wanted to tell you that he''s back. I want you to know that your life may be in danger and that he may be stalking you again! Feng Mei, you have to believe me. You have--"

    "I know," Lei Zhao interrupted him, feeling irritated with how this man kept on going on and on with his words as if he was talking to Yan Mei. "You don''t need to call my wife. And you don''t have to watch over her."

    Lei Zhao immediately ended the call, his hand on Yan Mei''s phone tightening. His lips turned into a tight line as his eyes turned cold, irritated at how the man spoke to her as if he still mattered in Yan Mei''s life.

    ''The audacity!'' Lei Zhao put Yan Mei''s phone on the table in front of him as he thought to himself, ''He is the ex-husband! How could he watch over my wife like that?''

    "Lei Zhao?"

    Lei Zhao snapped out of his thoughts. He instinctively turned back to see Yan Mei wearing Lei Zhao''s shirt that looked too big on her. She wore in ck dolphin shorts underneath that entuated her wless skin.

    She then sat beside her husband and kissed his cheek, curious as to why he seemed to be in a daze.

    "What''s wrong? You look serious," Yan Meimented, Lei Zhao slightly furrowing his brows as he felt guilt in his heart.

    "I''m sorry, Yan Mei."

    His wife furrowed his brows, "For what? I just took a shower, and you''re apologizing to me?"

    "Erm..." Lei Zhao scratched the back of his head, "While you were taking a shower, I saw an unknown number calling your name and had to answer it because I was worried--with what''s happening and all."

    Yan Mei nodded slowly, slightly giggling at the same time.

    "Sure. It''s okay. You''re worried about that?"

    Lei Zhao looked at Yan Mei straight in the eyes.

    "Well, as I listened, it turned out to be Wang Lu."

    When Yan Mei heard this, her facial expression became slightly serious. She cocked her head to the side, wondering what her ex-husband could be talking about with her current husband.

    Furthermore, why could Wang Lu be calling?

    "He spoke so fast... about giving you a warning."

    Lei Zhao didn''t want to speak about it in detail. Even though it was about Wang Lu, it involved the man Yan Mei feared, so he did not dare tell what they have talked about in the conversation.

    "Hmm..." Yan Mei just nodded slowly, "I don''t care what he has to say. I was d that you were the one who answered the call."

    Hearing this from Yan Mei made Lei Zhao grin ear to ear. He immediately pulled Yan Mei into his arms and kissed her cheek many times, making Yan Mei giggled as she felt ticklish Lei Zhao''s fingers touching her waist.

    "Why are you so sweet?"

    "Oh, you don''t want me to?"

    "No, it''s not that, Lei Zhao..."

    "Then what is it?"

    Yan Mei looked at her husband. She slightly pouted as she put both of her hands on his face, squishing his cheeks.

    "If you keep being that way, I may be looking for it more and more."

    "Oh!" Lei Zhao yfully narrowed his eyes at her, "Then I would have to be more loving towards you now so you will think of me every day, and you will keep looking for it!"

    Yan Meiughed as she kept getting kisses from Lei Zhao. She was still in Lei Zhao''s embrace as they both looked at the sky, the moon in full glory.

    "The moon is beautiful, isn''t it?"

    Yan Meimented on the moon, but with Lei Zhao knowing what that phrase meant in Japan, saying that the moon is beautiful was meant to say "I love you" to a person poetically.

    Hearing this from her had made him feel giddy even though Yan Mei justmented on the moon.

    Lei Zhao tightened his embrace around his wife''s waist and spoke against her ear, getting her attention.

    "Yan Mei."

    "Hmm?"

    "The moon is beautiful, isn''t it?"

    Yan Mei giggled, "Yes. Yes, it is!"

    "Lei Zhao."

    "Hmm?"

    "The moon is beautiful, isn''t it?"

    Lei Zhao smiled, Yan Mei giggling as she felt Lei Zhao''s lips on her cheek.

    "Yes, Yan Mei... the moon is indeed beautiful."

    It turns out that Yan Mei knew what the phrase meant, after all. With that, their night together on this hotel''s balcony turned out to be simply romantic--one that will be remembered.

 Chapter 231 Pretty Bitch

    <h4>Chapter 231 Pretty Bitch</h4>

    In a blink of an eye, it was already the time that Ying Sheng will start her studies. Liam volunteered to drive Ying Sheng to the university so she would havepany before she goes to her sses.

    From afar, they would already see the building of the university. Ying Sheng stared at it with uncertainty in her eyes as she began to think if she could do well in school.

    Looking at her from the corner of his eye, Liam gave Ying Sheng a small smile as he continued driving, encouraging her at the same time.

    "You take it easy. Today is the first day of sses after all," he said, Ying Sheng, nodding as she checked her backpack to see if everything that she needed were there.

    Her notebook binder was there, a pen, a bottle of water--everything that she needed was already prepared inside by Liam.

    The car then stopped in front of the university gate, Ying Sheng already unbuckling herself from her seat. Liam then got off the car to open the car door for Ying Sheng. The moment she was out, the two stood for a while as they stared at each other before Ying Sheng goes to ss.

    "Call me or give me a message after your sses, alright? I''ll pick you up by then."

    "En." Ying Sheng smiled, tiptoeing a little to give Liam a swift kiss on the cheek. "I will. Don''t think of me much, alright?" She winked at him teasingly, Liam grinning at her remark.

    "I''ll see youter."

    With that, Ying Sheng nodded. She then walked inside the university gate, swiping her ID on the scanner for her entrance. The moment Liam saw that she is now inside, he entered his car then drove off.

    Ying Sheng got her phone from her pocket. As pretty and attractive as she is, all eyes were on her as she continued walking, browsing her phone at the same time.

    Her hair was in a ponytail, and she wore a in pink shirt tucked in her blue jeans. Her sneakersplemented her clothing, which made her look younger than her usual age.

    Ying Sheng''s outfit was simple, yet she was still the center of attraction.

    As she continued browsing her phone for thetest news, she identally bumped into someone, making her books fall on the ground.

    "Ah! Watch where you''re going!"

    "Oh! I''m so sorry."

    Ying Sheng immediately kept her phone in her pocket. She bent down to pick up the girl''s books as the girl that she bumped scoffed at her, the other students watching from afar as Ying Sheng picked up her books.

    "Ah, what bad luck..."

    "Of all the people she could bump into, she bumped the campus'' pretty bitch."

    "Knowing her, she would ''bitch'' about this."

    "Let''s steer clear away as possible. I don''t want to be involved in this."

    Hearing this, Ying Sheng internally rolled her eyes. She thought to herself how thisdy could get such a nickname in the university. If what thements of the other students said were true, then she better be avoiding her.

    Besides, being involved in issues is one thing Ying Sheng would want to avoid.

    To her, it is such a waste of time.

    Ying Sheng stood up. She extended both of her hands to give the girl her books.

    "Here. Sorry for bumping into--"

    But the girl in front of Ying Sheng swiped her arm in front of Ying Sheng, purposely making the books fall on the ground once more.

    Ying Sheng''s eyes widened in shock as the girl in front of her raised a brow at her. The lips of the "pretty bitch" curled into a smirk as she stared at Ying Sheng, feeling all high and mighty.

    "You deserve that. Pick it up again."

    Scoffing, Ying Sheng rolled her eyes at her. She bent down as she quickly picked up her books, walked up towards her, then harshly shoved it on her chest.

    "Ouch! You--"

    "You deserve that, too. Now stop being such a child, ''Pretty Bitch''."

    Ying Sheng started walking away. The other students who have seen thisughed, making the campus Pretty Bitch feel instantly embarrassed. She then shoved her books to her friend, then quickly walked to hold Ying Sheng by the wrist.

    "How dare you turn your back and walk away from me!? Don''t you know who I am? Who are you to act this way?!"

    Ying Sheng couldn''t help but roll her eyes at the woman in front of her. She smirked as well. She felt like instead of being called the pretty bitch, she is worthy of being called a clown as well.

    "And who are you to act this way? Don''t be such a clown. No one deserves to be bullied by you--or by anyone in general."

    Ying Sheng shook her hand away from her. The pretty bitch gritted her teeth as she red at her that if looks could kill, she would have murdered Ying Sheng.

    "Why you!"

    As she was about to raise her hand to p Ying Sheng, a handsome man had immediately stepped in between them, making the girl hit his hard chest instead.

    There were gasps heard from the crowd, and the look on the girl''s face suddenly changed into a look of embarrassment and, at the same time, fear.

    "H-Han Zigao! I''m so sorry!"

    The man in front of Ying Sheng stared at the pretty bitch nonchntly. She suddenly turned into a little kitten--aplete opposite of the fierce image she showed a while ago.

    "Everyone, mind your own business."

    With his deep, sultry voice resounding in the campus, Han Zigao looked at everyone. The moment he did, the other students started averting their gazes, and the others walked away, too. He then held Ying Sheng''s hand, surprising her as he started walking away.

    "N-no way! Han Zigao is known to be the campus''s quiet, aloof hottie! I thought he had no interest in girls!"

    "But the girl he pulled with him seemed to be in a daze... does she know him?"

    "Haven''t you heard? He said to mind our own business!"

    Furrowing her brows, Ying Sheng instantly stopped in her tracks, making Han Zigao stop as well. She got her hand from him as she eyed him suspiciously, unsure of why he rescued her.

    "Oh. I''m sorry," Han Zigao apologized, scratching the back of his head. "The name''s Han Zigao."

    "So I heard," Ying Sheng said tly, Han Zigao scratching the back of his head awkwardly.

    "I should have introduced myself to you earlier, but with the situation, I had to step in. I''m sorry."

    "It''s okay. Thanks."

    When Ying Sheng was about to walk away, Han Zigao took another step in front of her, making the woman raise a brow at her.

    "Excuse me?"

    "I''m sorry. I should have told you earlier that I am Liam''s cousin."

    "Oh?" Hearing this, Ying Sheng loosened her uptight attitude. "He told you that I wasing?"

    "Yeah," Han Zigao nodded, "He even showed me a picture, so I instantly recognized you."

    "Oh!" Ying Sheng awkwardlyughed, "Liam shouldn''t have... I feel slightly embarrassed. Thanks for the help, anyway."

    "No problem. My cousin spoke about you a lot, so I hope we could be friends."

    Ying Sheng nodded as she extended her hand to give him a handshake, starting their friendship.

    The two then continued walking inside the campus, Han Zigao walking her to her ssroom after promising her to give her a tour.

    Before entering the ssroom, Ying Sheng smiled at Han Zigao and spoke, before going their seperate ways.

    "You maye with uster after ss and we could hang out?"

    "Sure!" Han Zigao only smiled to people whom he felt like it. "I''ll text my cousin, too, saying I''d join."

    The two already said their goodbyes. The student who knew who Han Zigao is were surprised to have seen him talking to someone when he was always usually alone.

    A/N : Happy New month. May this month bring us joy, good health and more money. Hopefully we will all meet next month and begin the new year together.

    Thank you guys for your support as always. Please take care and let''s see each other again.

    Ohkiee please like I said don''t jump into conclusion with my book. Like...from chapter one you should know by now not to jump into conclusion or assume something.

    Thank you

 Chapter 232 Let you down

    <h4>Chapter 232 Let you down</h4>

    Before Ying Sheng knew it, her sses had already ended early afternoon, around 3 PM. As she got out of the ssroom, Han Zigao was already outside. He was waving at her as he was leaning on the wall behind him.

    The girls swooned, and the boys stared as they passed by him, Ying Sheng blinking her eyes a few times.

    She''s curious as to why Han Zigao is popr. Maybe it was because of his name?

    Han Zigao, in Chinese history, is formerly known as Han Menzi, a Chinese general who''s known for his beauty and for being the favorite lover of Emperor Wen of Chen.

    With the campus''s Han Zigao, Liam''s cousin, Ying Sheng, could see that his looks indeed match the historic name.

    He is the school''s famous martial artist athlete--at par with his pulchritude. With his silence and aloof personality, they know Han Zigao to be mysterious and uptight.

    With himmunicating with a new student in school, the news quickly traveled in the university that Han Zigao may be interested in seeing someone.

    Little did they know, however, that he was only doing his cousin Liam a favor of watching out for her. Dating is out of his vocabry until someone had swept him off his feet.

    Ying Sheng shuddered. Even in sses, she heard how people talked about her when it was even the first day of sses.

    Well, just like the saying goes: there are eyes and ears on the walls and the floor.

    Ying Sheng put her bag over her shoulder as she walked over to Han Zigao, feeling awkward with the stares around her.

    "Why are you so popr, Han Zigao?"

    Liam''s cousinughed as he shook his head,fortable talking to Ying Sheng even though they just talked for the first time today.

    "I didn''t ask for this. Anyway, I called my cousin earlier, and he said he''s already outside, waiting for us," Han Zigao said, Ying Sheng, smiling at him as the thought of Liam waiting outside ran in her thoughts.

    ''He waited for me,'' she thought, ''How is that man so patient?''

    Han Zigao and Ying Sheng started walking out of the university building, going towards the university gate where Liam is waiting for them.

    "So, what else did Liam say?"

    Ying Sheng wondered what Liam could have possibly said to his cousin, Han Zigao. Han Zigao just had his eyes at his front, answering Ying Sheng''s question as he spoke.

    "Well, he said we''ll be having a snack before you to go to your errands," he said, turning his head to face her as they walked. "If you don''t mind me asking, are you Liam''s girlfriend?"

    "O-oh!"

    Hearing this from Han Zigao, who is Liam''s rtive, Ying Sheng felt embarrassed. She didn''t know how to answer that question because Liam is still in the process of winning her heart.

    She had to admit to herself, however, that she is slowly opening up her heart to the man.

    Ying Sheng smiled, "We''re getting there," she answered, feeling that this is the safest thing to say to his cousin.

    Hearing this, Han Zigao grinned.

    "I''m d," hemented,pletely piquing the curiosity of Ying Sheng.

    "Oh? Why so?"

    "Well, my cousin is socially awkward, and sometimes he found the difficulty to express himself, you know?"

    Ying Shengughed. She found herself nodding to what he said, agreeing to the part when he said that Liam is socially awkward.

    "I had to admit that you''re right," she replied, "Liam''s awkward, but he is sweet in his ways," she added, Han Zigao nodding in agreement.

    "Yeah. My cousin''s smart and kind. I''m d that he found someone whom he seems capable of letting him out of his shell."

    At the same moment, the two had already arrived at the university gate. Liam''s figure leaning on his car appeared, the two already smiling at him to greet Liam hello.

    Liam smiled and waved at them. Ying Sheng then quickly walked towards him and gave him a swift kiss on the cheek, surprising Liam. He awkwardly smiled as he saw Han Zigao''s teasing smile.

    "Your girl was about to get bullied, but it seems that she could settle it on her own before I even pried in the scene," he said, Liam, arching a brow at Ying Sheng.

    "It''s the first day, and you already got yourself into trouble?"

    "Heeey..." Ying Sheng pouted, "I said sorry, and it was not my fault. I bumped into her, and I picked up her books, but she was so snobby."

    When she exined to Liam, Ying Sheng felt wronged. With her cute, childish reaction, Liam chuckled as he pinched her cheeks, Ying Sheng, narrowing her eyes at him.

    "Watch where you''re going next time, alright?"

    "En..."

    Han Zigao slightly chuckled at the side as he watched them interact with each other. He felt genuinely happy for his cousin Liam to have finally met a girl who makes him express himself more.

    The three had already entered the car, going towards a caf¨¦ which is popr in the area. ording to Liam''s search, it said that their snacks are affordable and at the same time delicious, making it worth it to visit.

    As the three were conversing, they silenced when they heard the ring of Ying Sheng''s phone. The moment she got it from her pocket, her eyebrows slightly furrowed to see an unexpected caller.

    It was Yan Mei.

    She answered the call then she put her phone against her ear.

    "Yes?"

    "Ms. Ying Sheng, hello. How are you?"

    Ying Sheng smiled as she heard the calming and weing voice on the other side of the call.

    "I''m fine, Mrs. Lei," she said, "Do you have any concerns?"

    Ying Sheng wanted to get to the point, as she knows that Yan Mei wouldn''t call without any reason.

    "I called for the uingunch, Ms. Ying Sheng. You see, knowing that you are part of the runway, I am here to remind you that theunch will being soon and that you won''t forget?"

    Hearing this, Ying Sheng nervously giggled, "I see. Of course, Mrs. Lei, I won''t forget," she said, but she couldn''t mask her nervousness. "You think... that I could do it? What if I mess up?"

    Ying Sheng heard a light giggle on the other end of the call.

    "You won''t, Ms. Ying Sheng. I chose you because I believe that you could do it."

    With her encouraging words, Ying Sheng couldn''t help but smile. She nodded, even though Yan Mei couldn''t see, but there was happiness etched in her voice as she replied to her.

    "Alright. Then I won''t let you down, Mrs. Lei."

    "I know you wouldn''t, Ms. Ying Sheng. See you at theunch!"

 Chapter 233 Guardian Angel

    <h4>Chapter 233 Guardian Angel</h4>

    Liam, Ying Sheng, and Han Zigao ate a snack together. They ordered three batches of fries and had their specific milkshake.

    "If you don''t mind me asking, Han Zigao," Ying Sheng trailed off, "Why are you so aloof in school? Does it run in the family--you two want to be out of the crowd?"

    Liam and Han Zigaoughed when they heard Ying Sheng''s remark. She grinned at them ear to ear as she felt that her eyes were dazzled by the two handsome men in front of her.

    "Being aloof is my choice," Han Zigao said, looking at his cousin teasingly at the same time. "But Liam here... he''s just born socially awkward."

    "Hey!"

    Ying Shengughed at what Han Zigao said. At the same time, the rm in Han Zigao''s phone rang, distracting them from their conversation.

    Han Zigao fished his phone from his pocket to stop the rm. He then looked at Ying Sheng and Liam with a small smile on his face.

    "I''m sorry, that''s my rm for my training regimen. I have to go and keep up, or the couch will beat me up," Han Zigao said, already standing up to get his things.

    "Okay, then. See you at university!"

    "Thanks for looking out for her, Han Zigao. I''ll catch up with you when I visit your home soon."

    "Yeah," Han Zigao waved a hand as he started to jog. "See you guys," he called out, the two already left alone inside the caf¨¦.

    Now that the two are left alone, Liam couldn''t help but feel awkward. He had been alone with Ying Sheng for a lot of times already, but why does he act so off when they are alone sometimes?

    Is being socially awkward a curse?

    Seeing this, Ying Sheng propped a hand under her chin, narrowing her eyes at Liam as she felt like teasing him now that they are alone.

    "Are you back to being socially awkward, Liam, hmm?"

    "Erm..." Liam scratched the back of his head as he furrowed his brows, feeling embarrassed. "I''m sorry, Ying Sheng. It''s my--"

    Ying Shengughed, "You don''t have to apologize, Liam," she interrupted, "You''re cute this way. It makes me want to wrap you around my finger."

    Liam grinned, "You already did."

    "Oh..." A soft flush of pink appeared on her face, not expecting what he said. "I see... I already did," she mumbled, but it was enough for Liam to hear. He smiled at her, changing the topic.

    "In half an hour, your sharing forum wille up. Do you need me to wait for you?"

    "Yes," Ying Sheng nodded, "Then let''s grab dinner together, please?"

    Liam slightly chuckled, nodding at her.

    "Sure. Let''s grab dinner after."

    "Yes!"

    With that, Liam had already paid the bill. The two then entered the vehicle, Liam driving to Ying Sheng''s sharing forum for her session to cope up with her depression.

    ***

    The moment Ying Sheng entered the room, she fell silent. She felt quite ufortable knowing that she would be joining in this sharing forum wherein people get to share and listen to each other''s experiences.

    But then again, since the therapist advised the session, then she would have to go on with it if it would mean helping her. Besides, Ying Sheng would want nothing more as long as it is for her recovery.

    Ying Sheng sat in one empty seat. The others also upied the five vacant seats, then they sat in silence, waiting for their therapist to arrive.

    The others gave each other a small smile as they waited patiently for the session to start. Soon, the cking of heels echoed in the room, making everyone instinctively turn their heads to the sound.

    The psychologist sweetly smiled at everyone as she sat on the chair found in the middle of the circle, the others smiling to greet her as well.

    "Good day, everyone," she said, the others greeting her in unison as well.

    "Hello, Ms. Ming."

    "For today''s session, we would share what we would like to share. No one is forcing you, don''t worry, this is something to ease what we are feeling inside."

    With that, there was suddenly silence in the circle. The participants shyly looked at each other, as if waiting for someone to volunteer so they could get on with it.

    Ying Sheng felt her heart beating fast. She remembered how her life is--and what had triggered her to act in ways she didn''t think she was capable of doing.

    The thoughts came to her one by one. Those bad memories that had haunted her even came to visit her mind, confusing her right this very moment.

    She suddenly felt ufortable, but when Ying Sheng suddenly thought of Liam, who was always there by her side, the ripples of dibobtion in her mind and heart eased calmly.

    With that, Ying Sheng slowly raised her hand, getting everyone''s attention as they all turned their heads to look at her.

    "Why, yes, Ms. Ying Sheng? Anything you want to share in the group?"

    Ying Sheng nodded, "Umm... this is nothing serious, as I still find it hard to open up. However, I would want to speak generally, and I would like to share how I am doing now, hoping it would help me feel happy about myself."

    Ms. Ming smiled and nodded, gesturing her to start.

    "Go on, Ms. Ying Sheng. We''re here to listen."

    Ying Sheng heaved a small sigh. She then began talking, everyone attentively listening to her as she spoke her every word.

    "As I experienced those bad memories that I had in the past, it made me question my very existence. I know you guys have also felt this way because if not, then you won''t be here," she said, the others listening to her nodding in agreement.

    "I see myself as a failure--like I existed to be a mess. I always thought about that. I even harmed myself a lot of times--even wanting to be dead at most times."

    When the others heard this, everyone felt mncholic as they ced themselves in Ying Sheng''s shoes and sympathized with her.

    "I thought I am not worthy to live in this world but then, I met someone who proved me wrong."

    The image of Liam appeared in her mind. A sweet smile appeared on her face as she continued voicing her heart out.

    "I was happy when I met him. I felt like a mess, but he was like a perfect lens to let me see an artistic world. He''s like a magnifier that let''s me imagine a mysteriously utopian world."

    Some of the people started tough because they thought that she was naive, but Ying Sheng didn''t mind it. She still smiled at them as she continued telling her why she felt better now.

    "It may seem like I am exaggerating--maybe I am, but... because of him, even though I felt bad about living, he made me realize that it was worth breathing because the world is indeed scary, but a beautiful ce to live."

 Chapter 234 The launch

    <h4>Chapter 234 Theunch</h4>

    Time flew by so fast, and the day of theunch was already upon them. The most awaited asion was today, and with that, the news of theunch spread in the entire country. Even other famous internationalpanies have heard of thisunch.

    Wang Lu wore his most expensive suit, fixing his crooked necktie as he stared at himself in the mirror.

    With his secretary''s update about the man stalking Yan Mei, and with another man answering his call, he grew uneasy and decided to visit Yan Mei during theunch.

    He got the car keys on the table. He then walked to his garage to ride his car. Wang Lu then started driving off towards the city where Yan Mei''sunch would take ce.

    ***

    Thepany has prepared this long for theunch. Yan Mei and everyone in thepany made sure that everything should go ording to n before theunch would even take ce.

    There is no room for any mistakes.

    In the entrance of theunch''s location, the carpet was the hue of summer''s deepest rose petals. Sooner orter, the prestigious guests and the VIPs would being in the demesne for theunch.

    Sooner orter, vehicles parked in front of the building, revealing the famous artists and celebrities of the country--and even from other countries.

    shes of cameras were everywhere. Any person around would hear the clicking of the buttons and the interviewers talking amongst each other.

    ***

    Inside the building, Yan Mei stood by the entrance, greeting some of the very first visitors who came in the vicinity.

    Yan Mei looked breathtakingly beautiful for the asion. Any person who would see her and would pass by her would not get enough of her. One would say that one second of looking at her would not be enough.

    Her hair is in a bun, some tendrils of her hair on either side of her face. Her lips were tinted red--like it was already the natural color of her lips. Hershes were naturally long, so it needn''t put fakeshes on it.

    She wore a greenish-blue gown made of soft, satiny fabric, long and loose. A semicircr, high cor made of silk-like materials headed the ankle-length robe.

    Yan Mei walked as lightly as an acrobat inside the building, smiling and waving at the guests as they settled on their seats. A puff of wind swept through her hair, making her tuck some of her hair behind her ear.

    Lei Zhao, who was watching her from afar, grinned ear to ear as he walked towards her. Despite knowing Yan Mei being headstrong, he knew that his woman could also feel jittery and nervous.

    "Yan Mei," he lightly called out enough to call her attention. His wife looked at him, and her eyes faltered for a moment when she saw him.

    "Lei Zhao."

    She said his name, almost in a mumble, her eyes scanning as she spoke softly to her husband. She wanted so badly to mask her nervousness, but with her seeing Lei Zhao suddenly, she could not help but feel vulnerable.

    "Hey, rx," Lei Zhao said, chuckling at the same time. "You already checked over and over--even the slightest details! Nothing will go wrong," he said, Yan Mei, biting her bottom lip as she stared at him.

    "I know, but--"

    "Hush," Lei Zhao interrupted and silenced her, "My Wifey is strong and smart. I know thisunch will be a sess. Alright?"

    With her husband''s encouraging words, Yan Mei beamed at him gratefully. Not wanting to disy her public affection, she mouthed to say thank you, Lei Zhao easily understanding her lips'' movement.

    Everyone settled already in their seats. The lights suddenly dimmed to start the highlight of theunch: the fashion show with the theme "Fierce: More and More."

    Lei Zhao got two sses of champagne from a waiter walking inside the building. He gave Yan Mei one, his wife only holding the champagne as she intently watched the runaway, the models walking to and fro, one by one, showcasing Yan Mei''s new jewelry release.

    The models walked and showed that they owned the catwalk. They did not only unt the clothes that they wore, but they made sure that their poses would entuate the collection Yan Mei''spany had designed.

    Yan Mei''s heart couldn''t help but race as she felt satisfied and proud of how the models carried her selection. She proudly smiled as the jewelryplemented the models and the clothes they were wearing.

    She even scanned the looks on the audience''s faces. The celebrities, the artists, and the known designers were enthralled with what thepany is showcasing.

    Yan Mei''s kept her left hand at the back as it balled into a fist.

    ''This is all going so well!''

    With Lei Zhao noticing that her nervousness is no longer there, he smiled as he secretly held Yan Mei''s hand with his right hand, squeezing her hand to surprise her.

    "I told you, this would go so well," he whispered, Yan Mei slightly giggling as she heard Lei Zhao''s encouragement.

    "Hush, don''t distract me," she scolded, but deep down, she felt happy with sharing this moment with Lei Zhao.

    Sooner orter, everyone gasped in amazement when they saw who the next model was. Yan Mei smiled as the model confidently walked in the runaway, everyone''s eyes on her.

    ''I knew it. I knew it that Ying Sheng is a perfect decision to include in showcasing my collection!''

    Her wavy hair cascaded behind her, showing off her cor bones. She wore an off-shoulder fitted ck dress, with a long slit at the left. She wore a ck three-inched pumped high heels, and she confidently walked, owning the catwalk betterpared to the other models who had walked before her.

    She held the studded clutch bag that thepany made, everyone''s eyes on her as she also unted the snake tattoo painted on her arm.

    "My, who is this stunningdy!?"

    "I am familiar with the models, but who is thisdy? She is breathtaking!"

    "Is she looking for an agent? If she is, I would want to talk to her!"

    "Yes, but don''t forget about the bag that she''s holding! The collection that thepany is showcasing is indeed captivating!"

    "I know, right? But the studded clutch bag this model is holding--it''s something simple, yet sophisticated at the same time!"

    Hearing theirments, Yan Mei felt like she had won the lottery! She felt her heart racing as it thumped quickly in her chest, almost making it difficult to breathe!

    ''This is it! Thepany is about to get a breakthrough with theunch!"

 Chapter 235 The leakage

    <h4>Chapter 235 The leakage</h4>

    L[This chapter may contain disturbing content. HOWEVER, let this note also serve as a reminder to everyone not to jump to conclusions. Thank you.]

    ***

    Everyone cheered and pped when the fashion show ended with flying colors. Everyone immediately discussed amongst themselves in their seats as the collection left an impression in their thoughts.

    The lights were no longer dim as Yan Mei started walking towards the stage. Everyone''s eyes were now on her as they also noticed that Yan Mei wore an essory that was part of the showcase.

    The earrings were bright feathers wafting in the delicate breeze, their colors vibrant against her wless skin. Somehow, they entuated her smile and the slight movement in her hair as she walked towards the center of the stage.

    Lei Zhao looked at her as she took her every step. His smile showed pride as he felt proud of the sess of his wife--how capable and independent she was to have made thisunch sessful without his help.

    Like the saying goes: nothing is sexier than a woman who can handle and present herself well.

    The moment Yan Mei was in the middle of the stage, everyone pped as she smiled at everyone, about to start her speech.

    shes of the camera were everywhere, interviewers with their notepad and pen were also evident. Everyone''s murmurs died down as Yan Mei patiently waited for them to stop.

    At the same moment, Wang Lu already arrived in the demesne. He sat down in one empty seat at the back as he used his identity to enter theunch of Yan Mei''spany.

    "Family, friends, guests, everyone... thank you so much foring to ourunch today."

    Everyone started pping once more as she smiled at them, scanning her eyes on the people inside the building.

    "Thisunch would not have been possible without your help. Because of you, our patrons, it has motivated me, and the people in thepany, to make such breakthroughs in creating high-end collections just for you."

    Everyone''s eyes were on her. They listened to every word that escaped from her mouth, their expressions showing awe with how beautiful the CEO looked tonight.

    "To be honest, I am clearly at a loss for words. I know that we did our best. Because of the presentation today, I realized that what we saw today even exceeded my expectations."

    The audience pped once more. Su Bei, who sat beside Leng Shao, grinned from ear to ear as they pped for their friend who had made another sess.

    Lei Zhao, who was lowkey standing at the side, sweetly smiled at his wife. He felt genuinely happy for her as he found her more witty and attractive to have made thisunch sessful.

    Even Lei Zhao''s family was present in the building. They were also proud of Yan Mei''s sess as if she were their child.

    "To tell you honestly, I have been nervous and uneasy before theunch even started today. Even I, a CEO who is feared, would get the jitters."

    The audienceughed when they heard this. Even Yan Mei slightly giggled along with them.

    Yan Mei silenced for a while. She remembered here and then the person who had supported her all the way.

    A sweet smile crept on her face as her heart tenderly beat with the thought of her husband running in her mind.

    "Because of one person, however, my fears and anxiety swept away. It was like a wave in the sea had pulled it away from me."

    Wang Lu''s hands on hisp turned into tight fists. He knew that Yan Mei is not talking about him. He knew that he was no longer her husband. But he couldn''t help but feel jealous and angry.

    Yan Mei looked at Lei Zhao from the corner of her eye. Lei Zhao secretly reciprocated her stare as he smiled, love reflected in his eyes.

    "Without him, I think I would never even made thisunch sessful," she said, her eyes showing love as she spoke about the person whom she wanted to introduce to the crowd.

    "Everyone, I''d like you to meet--"

    "Oh, my!"

    But then, she was suddenly interrupted when they heard gasps and when they saw the aghast expressions that appeared on their faces.

    ''What?''

    Yan Mei instinctively turned her back to see what was happening on the screen before her. The mic that she held suddenly fell on the floor as her body started trembling, shocked by what she saw.

    On the screen showed a woman who looked exactly like her, fucking someone who looked exactly like Leng Shao. The woman was on her knees as the man mercilessly thrust himself inside her as if he were an animal.

    Lei Zhao widened his eyes as he saw the same video that he watched days ago. His hands at the sides turned into tight fists as his eyebrows furrowed, already hating what is happening right now.

    The paparazzi kept clicking their cameras to take pictures, the crowd now murmuring as they saw the obscene video in front of them in such a wide scene.

    "M-make it stop," Yan Mei mumbled, but only Lei Zhao noticed the difort in her eyes.

    With her body trembling due to the sudden stress of the video ying, Lei Zhao''s eyes turned cold. He immediately walked up the stage as he pulled Yan Mei in his arms, protecting and hiding her from everyone.

    "Handle this situation. Now!"

    With his words firm and clear, Lei Zhao''s secretary, along with some of the employees of hispany, stood up from their seat to deal with their situation.

    Lei Zhao wrapped his arm around Yan Mei''s shoulder as the bodyguards protected them, already escaping the vicinity.

    Everyone was clearly still in a daze to even move. With the other bodyguards and employees left in the area, they have started to instruct everyone to go out.

    Lei Zhao''s secretary started to call the media and told them to block the news or else, theirpany would be shut down by the Leis.

    Everything was going so well in theunch... but little did they know that with just the video ying in the background, it had ruined everything...

    Especially the images of the people involved.

 Chapter 236 A husband tale

    <h4>Chapter 236 A husband tale</h4>

    [Warning: This chapter contains mature content. Again, please don''t jump to conclusions.]

    ***

    Everything is now in a mess. Thepany had prepared, and Yan Mei made sure that everything would go as nned. However, with the video of what had happened five years ago happening, every single bit prepared fell into ruins.

    Even though people were already being dealt with by Lei Zhao''s people, Wang Lu still stood stunned. He stared nkly at the screen even though the video stopped.

    Wang Lu''s hands at his sides trembled. With the video ying before everyone and before him, it had made Wang Lu remember the dreadful memory that urred five years ago.

    ***

    *shback*

    It was already eight in the evening. Wang Lu sat on his office chair, fixing the papers on his desk the moment he heard a knock that sounded on his door.

    "Come in," he beckoned, the door opening to reveal his employee.

    In his hand was a folder that seemed to contain something important. Wang Lu heaved a sigh as he stood up, looking at his employee as he wore his zer that hung at the back of his chair.

    "If that is a document that I need to sign, just put it on my desk. I''ll deal with it tomorrow."

    Wang Lu felt crabby and irritable. He wanted to go home as soon as possible. With him swamped in his work and with him getting distant with his wife, he felt no to little excited about going home.

    He felt that going home is more of a responsibility now rather than something giving him rxation andfort.

    Even with what Wang Lu said, however, the employee still didn''t leave. Wang Lu then looked at his employee again, the man extending his arm to hand over the folder.

    "Mr. Wang Lu, your spouse, Mrs. Feng Mei, is having an affair."

    Wang Lu''s eyebrows furrowed. He eyed his employee as he slowly got the folder from the man''s hand.

    ''My wife is having an affair?'' Wang Lu thought, ''I know that we are not talking much with each other, but how could she be having an affair? I know Feng Mei is not that type of woman.''

    Still, however, with his employee''s words, he could not help but be curious about it. He knew his employees would not say something if they aren''t sure, so if he came here to give him a folder, could he have seen something unusual?

    Wang Lu opened the folder. His eyes then widened when he saw a picture showing their backs. Both of them were entering the hotel, only showing their backs. Wang Lu narrowed his eyes to see that the woman in the photo had the same body as Feng Mei''s, getting his attention.

    Wang Lu thought a while ago that he should not believe what he heard, but with the thought of them being distant from each other already, Wang Lu could not help but doubt their marriage--and he could not help but think it is true.

    "En," Wang Lu said tly to his employee, "Prepare the car. Drive me to the hotel where Feng Mei is."

    The two of them went to thepany''s parking lot. The drive was silent as the employee drove towards the hotel found in the photo.

    Wang Lu sat still on the backseat as his hand crumpled the photo in his hand.

    ''Should I believe this? People can edit photos,'' he thought, now staring out of the window. ''But still, I''m uneasy. I can''t help but want to confirm if it''s true.''

    After a 5-minute drive, they have already arrived in front of the hotel. The two of them entered and went to the receptionist, the employee speaking for Wang Lu as he asked the room number of Feng Mei, using Wang Lu''s name andpany for easier ess to know the whereabouts of his wife.

    After a few seconds, the employee turned his body to face Wang Lu, "They are on the 7th floor, in room 713."

    Wang Lu felt his adrenaline rush in his body. His eyes turned cold as his heart thumped nervously. He wished that his wife would not cheat, but to ease his worries, he would have to check right here and then if the person in the photo is her or not.

    The two of them used the elevator. In Wang Lu''s irritation and at the same time uncertainty, Wang Lu could not help but tap his feet as he crossed his arms in front of his chest.

    He wondered what he would do if he found out that it was Feng Mei. He thought about what he would do if he found out if she wasn''t her.

    He wished thetter part would happen instead.

    The elevator doors opened, and the moment it did, Wang Lu quickly walked outside, the employee waiting by the side of the elevator as Wang Lu made way to the hotel room.

    How coincidental it was that the door was slightly open? With that, it had piqued Wang Lu''s curiosity more as he did his best to quickly walk by the door, silently as he could to not look suspicious.

    "Ah... mm... yes... deeper!"

    Wang Lu froze. He was already at the side of the door, but he found it difficult to take a peek. It was as if he was forcing himself to be a peeping Tom, but he only wanted to confirm if the person is his wife or not!

    "Ah, yes... you like that, Feng Mei?"

    Wang Lu''s ears twitched as he heard the man call out the name. He then dared to peek, and the moment he did, his eyes widened at what he had seen.

    The woman was sitting on the man, her hair over her right shoulder. The man had both of his hands on her waist as the woman grinded on top of him, her moaning resonating with the man''s groans of pleasure.

    "Tell me... has anyone has given you this much pleasure?"

    The man spanked her ass as she continued bouncing up and down, the girl tipping up her head as she felt immense satisfaction of his girth thrusting inside her.

    "Oh, Leng Shao," she moaned out his name, "I would rather have you rather than my husband, Wang Lu."

    Wang Lu wanted to scream--he wanted to shout at the top of his lungs! But then, his feet were rooted on the ground as if it were roots of a tall tree.

    Wang Lu wanted so bad to doubt what he was seeing right now. Wang Lu wanted so bad to believe that his wife is not cheating on him.

    But with Wang Lu seeing limited edition clothes that he gave Feng Mei, and when he saw the mole on the woman''s back, one thing that he loved on Feng Mei''s body, it had already assured him that his wife was indeed fucking another man.

    Wang Lu staggered back and shook his head.

    No-no he didn''t want to believe it. This is¡ªnot happening.

    How can Feng Mei do this to him? What happened to the vows they exchanged?

    Was his love not enough for her? Wang Lu held his chest as painful thoughts assaulted his mind.

 Chapter 237 The disgrace

    <h4>Chapter 237 The disgrace</h4>

    The media is in a frenzy about the video. Even though bodyguards already started warding them off the vicinity, the interviewers and the paparazzi stood their ground as they did their best to stay in the area, making sure they would get the scoop of theunch.

    As Lei Zhao was gently leading Yan Mei out of the area, her eyes were dazed and nked as she repeatedly mumbled to herself, "That''s not me, that''s not me, that''s not me..."

    Lei Zhao''s family followed behind them as Lei Zhao turned back to look at them briefly--his eyes worried for his wife.

    Lei Zhao''s parents and grandparents were shocked when they saw the video y before them. They wondered if that happened to Yan Mei in the past, making them think if what they saw in the video is indeed true or only a fabrication.

    Lei Zhao opened the door of the passenger''s seat and made Yan Mei sit down. He then closed the door as he looked at his family, looking at Lei Zhao in dibobtion.

    "Yan Mei''s under mental and emotional stress," he said, his family intently listening to him. "I had no choice but to take her away. I have to protect my wife."

    Lei Xiao Tong nodded as she held his son''s shoulder,forting him.

    "Go home to our ce first. Paparazzi may wait at your ce," she said, Lei Zhao, nodding as he looked at his family one by one before he went inside of his car.

    Lei Zhao''s family then entered their vehicle as well, the two cars already driving off to go to the Lei residence.

    ***

    Everyone was already in the living room. Yan Mei sat on the couch, still shaken as she drank the water given to her in one down.

    Water dripped from her lips, making Lei Zhao bend down to wipe the corners of her lips with his handkerchief.

    "Don''t worry, Yan Mei. I''m here," he gently said,forting his wife. "We will be staying here until it is safe to go to our home, alright?"

    Yan Mei looked embarrassingly on the floor. With his family looking at her after they watched the video that yed in theunch, she felt ashamed of herself even though she knew that it was not her in the video.

    But then, she knew that it would be difficult for her to convince them that it isn''t her. She desperately wished that they believed her even though she still could not show the evidence that it wasn''t her in the video.

    "Yan Mei, deary."

    Lei Xiao Tong bent down, looking up to meet Yan Mei''s face. The moment their eyes met, Yan Mei felt her eyes water as she looked at Lei Zhao''s mother, utterly embarrassed of herself.

    Seeing the uneasiness in her eyes, Lei Xiao Tong furrowed her brows. She held both of her hands and felt that it was cold, making her worry for her daughter-inw.

    "Yan Mei, sweetheart... I''m sorry to ask this, but is the woman in the video you?"

    Yan Mei''s eyes widened as some tears escaped from her eyes. She furiously shook her head as her voice broke the word she uttered.

    "N-no... th-that''s not me. Y-you have to believe me. It''s not me."

    With Yan Mei''s whole body trembling, Lei Xiao Tong slowly stood up as she looked at Lei Zhao, her worry deepening.

    With Yan Mei''s reaction, Lei Xiao Tong knew that she should not probe Yan Mei further or else, it might trigger something in her, making her unstable.

    The living room silenced. Lei Zhao could no longer help it as he remembered what he promised himself days ago. He promised that if the time were toe to tell Yan Mei that he received the parcel, he would tell her.

    Now that this had happened in theunch, it was a signal for Lei Zhao to tell his wife what he knows.

    "Yan Mei," Lei Zhao said, his hand holding hers. "I saw the video days ago, but the faces were not clear because they''re blurred."

    Yan Mei turned her head to look at her husband in horror.

    "Wh-what?"

    At the same moment, Ye Xing came. Ye Xing rushed to investigate the video given to him, and now that it came to this, he had sped up his work, already confirming the authenticity of the video.

    "Excuse me, Mr. Lei Zhao," he called out, also giving a small bow to his boss''s family, "The video is real. It is not edited and not photoshopped."

    Lei Zhao''s family members gasped. Even Yan Mei widened her eyes as they heard their expression, their gazes dropping on her as if they were looking for an exnation from her.

    Lei Zhao nods in understanding. Now all the clues he had in his mind made sense with the video and with the confirmationing from Ye Xing.

    "En," Lei Zhao said tly, "Continue to investigate. You may go."

    With his signal, Ye Xing gave another bow to bid his farewell. He then left, leaving the Leis and Yan Mei alone in the living room.

    Yan Mei looked at Lei Zhao.

    "Believe me, Lei Zhao, that''s not me!" Uncontroble tears already escaped from her eyes. "The woman in the video is not me! I''m not lying!"

    She then faced Lei Zhao''s family members. She could not help but tell them through words that it''s not her. How could she prove to them that it is not her when the woman looked exactly like her? How could she convince them through her words that it''s not her?

    Yan Mei felt scared here and then that her image in Lei Zhao''s family is now ruined because of a video that was taken five years ago!

    "It''s not me... it''s not me, I swear!"

    Yan Mei''s whole body was shaking. Lei Zhao sighed as he stared nkly at the floor, his right arm wrapping around Yan Mei''s shoulders. Yan Mei shook as she sobbed, Lei Xiao Tong kneeling in front of Yan Mei as she wiped her tears with her thumbs.

    "Don''t worry, Yan Mei," she said sweetly, "We believe you," she added, not wanting to trigger Yan Mei''s anxiety furthermore.

    Lei Xiao Tong then turned to her son then held his hand, getting his attention.

    "Take Yan Mei out of the city. She needs to get out of here. If she stays, who knows what would happen." Lei Xiao Tong gave a small smile to her son, "I''ll take care of things here. You two don''t have to worry."

    Lei Zhao frowned slightly. Even though he wanted to solve this issue by himself he knew he had to think about Yan Mei first.

    "Alright".

    With that, the ring on Yan Mei''s phone surprised everyone. Her hands shakily opened her purse to get her phone and when she opened the message, the phone immediately dropped from her hands as her body started trembling in fear.

    With her reaction, Lei Xiao Tong and Lei Zhao looked at each other. Lei Zhao stood up as he picked up his phone, Lei Xiao Tong and Lei Zhao reading the message that had scared Yan Mei to death.

    "Little kitty, I hope you like my gift~!"

 Chapter 238 Believe me

    <h4>Chapter 238 Believe me</h4>

    Su Bei''s eyes were wide open, her mouth agape as she saw the video yed during theunch.

    She felt her heart disintegrated into teeny-tiny pieces--as if something was gnawing on her heart, causing it to ache.

    With the difort that she felt and with the video still shing in her mind even though she just watched it once, her eyes turned ssy as tears formed in her eyes.

    Seeing her best friend, Yan Mei, on top of Leng Shao, the man he dated upon Yan Mei''s suggestion, how could she look at Leng Shao the same way when she already started having feelings for him?

    "Su Bei."

    The moment Leng Shao said her name, she snapped out of her thoughts. Her eyebrows creased as she looked at Leng Shao, almost forgetting that she was beside him all along when the video yed before everyone.

    With that in mind, Su Bei turned her body and started walking away. Leng Shao''s eyes showed worry as he saw her retreating figure.

    "Su Bei, wait!"

    Leng Shao chased after Su Bei. He caught her by the wrist, and the moment Su Bei felt his hand, she shook her hand away from him and stared at him with pain stered in her eyes.

    "You like Yan Mei, don''t you?"

    "Su Bei..."

    Leng Shao felt wronged. Yes, he had feelings towards Yan Mei, but when he went on a date with Su Bei, he realized that he could start falling for someone else, too!

    With the video ying before them, Leng Shao understood why Su Bei acted this way.

    But how could he convince her to believe him? He knew that the man on the video wasn''t him even though he looked exactly like him.

    How could Leng Shao convince Su Bei if the video looked so convincing?

    "See?" Su Bei scoffed, snapping Leng Shao out of his stupor. "You couldn''t even answer. You like Yan Mei."

    With her walking away from him again, Leng Shao could not help but feel the fear of losing her even though they just had a date once and had only met recently.

    Grabbing her by the wrist again, Leng Shao pulled her closer to him, surprising Su Bei as shended on his chest, her hand sprawled on him as she supported her weight.

    Leng Shao stared straight into her bbergasted eyes as Su Bei furrowed her brows, not liking the position that she is in the arms of Leng Shao, the man whom her best friend fucked.

    "Leng Shao, stop! Let me go!"

    "No, I won''t!"

    His words came out strong, surprising Su Bei as his words reverberated in her ears, traveling towards her mind and heart as if convincing her to listen to him.

    "The man and the woman in the video. It isn''t me and Yan Mei. You know Yan Mei well. Do you think she would? With me?"

    Su Bei averted her gaze from him as she noticed how handsome he was up close.

    "No... I don''t know," she mumbled, but it was enough for Leng Shao to hear. Her eyes then turned stern as she looked at him again, her voice harsher than before. "Now, let me go!"

    As Su Bei pushed Leng Shao away, he tightened his arm around her waist. Leng Shao''s eyes turned serious again, but for some reason, even though in her confusion and anger, Su Bei could not bring herself to look away.

    "Su Bei, how could I convince you that it is not me and Yan Mei who''s in the video? How could I convince you to believe me?"

    His words were gentle. Su Bei stared into Leng Shao''s desperate eyes as his words tugged her heartstrings.

    But then, with the video looking like them--looking like Yan Mei and Leng Shao, how could she believe Leng Shao?

    "Leng Shao," Su Bei said his name, "I''m sorry, but I can''t bring myself to believe you. With the video, how could I--"

    "I know," Leng Shao interrupted her, "But I want you to believe that it is not me--it is not us. Believe me. Honestly, I like Yan Mei--I did, and it was in the past. I could not bring myself to do that with her because we''re friends."

    Su Bei felt that Leng Shao was not lying, but deep down in her heart, she still felt hurt and dibobted.

    "Leng Shao..." Now her tone of voice is gentler than it was before. "I want to believe you... I sincerely do," she said, but now tears started escaping her eyes. "But I''m still not convinced, Leng Shao. I''m sorry..."

    Now Leng Shao released Su Bei from his hold. He also felt his heart aching as he felt wronged for being thought of that he was having sex with Yan Mei.

    "Su Bei..."

    Leng Shao didn''t know what to say. His eyes started to water as well as Su Bei locked eyes with Leng Shao, both of their hearts aching for each other.

    "Leng Shao, I''m sorry... but I want to leave."

    Not saying another word, Su Bei left Leng Shao alone in the vicinity. The moment he left, tears started escaping from his eyes as he watched her retreating figure getting away from him.

    Leng Shao wanted to bad to convince Su Bei that it was not him in the video. Leng Shaao wanted so bad to chase after her and tell her repeatedly that it was not him.

    But how? With the video looking so convincing, how could she believe him?

    Leng Shao stood there as he wondered how he could feel this much for a woman he met recently. It was like Su Bei came into his life like a hurricane and had made a great impact in his life.

    It was right here and then that he realized that he should do what he can to get her back even though she was not his in the beginning.

    It was right here and then that Leng Shao realized that he had to convince Su Bei with all his might just for her toe back to him--just for her not to distance herself from him.

    Leng Shao''s fists tightened at his sides. His eyes showed determination as he gritted his teeth, curious as to who did the video--curious as to what his or her intentions are of ying such a thing right in Yan Mei''sunch.

    Leng Shao frowned as the words of Wang Lu echoed in his head.

 Chapter 239 A game of chess

    <h4>Chapter 239 A game of chess</h4>

    Leng Shao still stood as he stared nkly at where Su Bei left even though she was no longer in sight.

    With Su Bei''s disappearance and with the look of pain in her eyes, Leng Shao couldn''t help but feel uneasy as he wanted so much to chase after her, but he knew that if he did, he would just irritate Su Bei more.

    One thing that he did not want is for her to push him away. Maybe this time, he would have to give her some time before he would show her his real intentions of wanting her back in his life.

    He wanted so bad to clear his image of him for Su Bei to understand that he won''t ever do such a thing to Yan Mei, theirmon friend.

    He sighed as he ran his hand through his hair, frustrated about who did the video and why he or she had aired it during Yan Mei''sunch.

    Because of that, the video tarnished not only Leng Shao''s but also Yan Mei''s.

    As he was about to leave the demesne, however, Leng Shao was taken aback as he was grabbed by the arm by Wang Lu, making him turn to look at him.

    Leng Shao''s eyes widened, "Wang Lu? What--"

    Before Leng Shao could even speak, the punch that he received from Wang Lu interrupted him. His nose immediately bled as he fell on the ground, looking up at Wang Lu with cold eyes as he wiped his blood with the sleeve of his suit.

    It had been such a long time since the two had talked despite them being best friends. Well, they were best friends.

    After not talking to each other for five years, this is how Wang Lu would talk to Leng Shao after such a long time of being distant?

    Leng Shao got hurt from his punch, but it did not intimidate him whatsoever. Leng Shao just scoffed as he stood up slowly, meeting Wang Lu''s angry gaze as he spoke.

    "What''s your problem?"

    Wang Lu usingly pointed at Leng Shao, his index finger shaking in anger.

    "Oh, Leng Shao... damn you for being so cheap!"

    Leng Shao furrowed his brows, at a loss and in confusion as Wang Lu seemed to be using him of something that even Leng Shao isn''t aware of what this usation is all about.

    "What?"

    Wang Lu thought that Leng Shao was feigning ignorance. In his fury, his nose fumed as he walked in three strides towards Leng Shao. Wang Lu then grabbed Leng Shao by the cor, his spit going on his face as heshed his anger at him.

    "Don''t act dumb! You recorded the video of you and Feng Mei fucking each other! Aren''t you ashamed of doing such a disgusting act?! So, don''t you lie to me! I saw you two in action five years ago with my own eyes!"

    ''What?''

    Leng Shao''s body stiffened. He then remembered why Wang Lu was so sure that Yan Mei had cheated on him.

    Could the video have something to do with their divorce?

    "See?" Wang Lu scoffed as he shoved Leng Shao away from him, the man struggling to keep his bnce. "You could not answer me! It''s true!"

    Wang Lu coldly stared at him, "What the fuck are you saying? You think that I--?"

    "Don''t you dare say another word!"

    Wang Lu red at him as if his eyes were the tips of a sharpened dagger. If looks could kill, he would have stabbed Leng Shao a lot of times already.

    "I can''t believe that my best friend, you, have seduced my wife to cheat on me!"

    Leng Shao''s eyebrows connected as he found it ludicrous for Wang Lu to believe the video.

    They had known each other for such a long time, and with him seeing the video, he already used him of being the man who fucked his wife?

    Heck, if he said he saw them five years ago, how could he believe that when he remembers that he could not be alone with Yan Mei knowing that she is married to his best friend, Wang Lu?

    "Wang Lu--"

    "Enough. I have no reason to listen to you or whatsoever. You havepletely destroyed my trust and ruined my life with her."

    Before Leng Shao could even tell him his side, Wang Lu had walked away, leaving Leng Shao alone.

    "What?" Leng Shao scoffed, "So those long friendship I had with him was clouded by his stupidity and judgment?" he mumbled to himself as he frustratingly ran his hand through his hair.

    Leng Shao felt all the more disturbed and agitated now that the people who are close to him and getting close to him started judging him when he had not done such a deed with Yan Mei.

    Already wanting to leave the vicinity, Leng Shao shook his head as he heaved a heavy sigh, already making way to his car so he could immediately leave the ce.

    From afar, however, unnoticed by the audience and the other people in theunch''s area was a man in a suit, leaning on the oak tree''s trunk as his lips curled into an evil smirk.

    He threw his keys up a lot of times, catching it in his hand as he watched themotion unravel right before his eyes.

    Heughed maniacally as he stared at the employees of Lei Zhao handling the area, the mysterious man shaking his head as he looked down on them trying their best to fix the issue.

    "Oh, they think they could stop what else is going to happen?"

    He was talking to himself, raising a brow as the smirk slowly disappeared from his face.

    "Oh, the fun is yet to begin... the little kitty would have to do her best to run away from this psychotic man."

    The mysterious man in a suit then started walking away as he chuckled to himself, his shoulders moving up and down as he enjoyed what was happening in their lives.

    Until he is not yet caught, he knows that he would still have more opportunities to ruin each and every aspect of their lives.

 Chapter 240 Donâ€™t believe it

    <h4>Chapter 240 Don''t believe it</h4>

    "I can''t believe it!"

    It was evident that there was disbelief in Ying Sheng''s voice as she saw in horror what had happened in the video.

    "I look up to her. I look up to her, Liam!"

    Liam allowed her to vent out her frustrations. He put his coat over Ying Sheng since it was already cold this evening. She only wore her sleeveless dress, and it would surely make her feel cold.

    The two had safely arrived in front of Liam''s car. He pressed the button of his keys to unlock the doors, rushing over the passenger''s seat to open the door for Ying Sheng.

    Ying Sheng entered and sat, Liam, buckling the seatbelt for her as she continued to vent.

    "I did not expect her to be this scandalous! I look up to her as my idol, and I worked for her!"

    "Now, now," Liam said, entering the driver''s seat then buckled his seatbelt. "We don''t know if that''s even true," he added, Ying Sheng, looking at him as he started to drive off from the parking lot.

    "You think it''s not real?"

    Liam shrugged, "It could be real, or it could not be real. You know, people could edit things well nowadays."

    Hearing this, Ying Sheng nodded slowly as what Liam said could be true.

    "You have a point," she said, understanding his point. "Then maybe I should have to wait for her say in this than judge, right?"

    "Yes," Liam said, "Wait for the exnation. Honestly, I think this could be a set-up, but I could be wrong."

    "Oh..."

    Ying Sheng then started to calm down. With Liam saying his opinions about the matter, Ying Sheng thought that what Liam said was reasonable and could be true.

    A smile then crept on her face as she leaned to her side, nting a kiss on Liam''s cheek, slightly surprising him.

    "You indeed make sense, Liam. I need you in my life to help me think properly," she teased, a flush of red appearing on Liam''s cheek.

    "O-oh..."

    He coughed, clearing his throat as Ying Shengughed on her seat, liking his reaction.

    Not expecting what he did, the moment the color red shed on the traffic light, Liam leaned to her side, surprising her as he nted a kiss on her lips for a few seconds.

    Ying Sheng blinked her eyes a few times, and the moment Liam parted away from her, a chuckle came from him, followed by a wink as he attempted to tease Ying Sheng.

    "You don''t need to tell me that you need me in your life. I''m already here."

    Ying Sheng scoffed, yfully rolling her eyes at him as Liam started driving again the moment the traffic light showed the color green.

    She looked out her window, a sweet smile appearing on her face as she tried her best to stifle her swoon, her heart feeling giddy with Liam''s unexpected flirtatious mood and attempt.

    "Don''t be so cheeky, Liam," she said teasingly, making Liamugh as he continued driving to a restaurant for them to eat dinner.

    "Then don''t be so naughty, Ying Sheng."

    ***

    The moment Wang Lu walked away, he immediately went straight home. He then walked directly to his house''s wine cer to get himself a bottle of alcohol.

    In just half an hour, he had half-consumed the wine that he got. He was tipsy as he continued drinking the alcohol, not caring that he has to go back to the city to go back to work.

    With that in mind, Wang Lu was still in the right mind to call his secretary. He clicked his secretary''s contact, and in the third ring, had already picked up Wang Lu''s call.

    "Yes, Mr. Wang Lu?" the person at the other end of the call greeted him.

    "Cancel my schedule... for the next day--tomorrow," he said, his voice slurring over his words as he huped in between words. "I''m drunk. I can''t go to work as I''m in another city."

    "O-okay," his secretary said at the other end of the call. Wang Lu did not need to tell the details, but he still did. "I''ll cancel the schedule for the next day and tell them that you''re feeling under the weather."

    "Ehe," Wang Luughed, his secretary scratching the back of his head as he listened to him. "Good boy! I''ll end the call now. Bye-bye!"

    And so he did end the call. The moment he did, he threw the phone at the side of the couch as he plopped on it, the bottle of alcohol held by his left hand.

    He stared nkly at his living room''s ceiling, remembering what had happened in the past with the video shown to them.

    At the same time, he also remembered what had happened earlier. He thought that he already forgot what happened five years ago, but with the video yed again, he felt his anger and hate as if it were yesterday.

    "Nnngh..."

    Groaning, Wang Lu put his hand over his head. With his hand searching for his phone, he sessfully found it, making him look for Yan Mei''s contact once more.

    "My Feng Mei" was still her name inside his phonebook. His eyes reflected sadness and pain as he looked at his ex-wife''s name, but his anger towards her still lingered in her heart.

    "How could you do this to me, Feng Mei," he mumbled, talking to himself, "How could you cheat on me with my best friend? I love you, but you betrayed me."

    Without him even realizing he pressed Yan Mei''s number and proceeded to call her. But when he put his phone against his ear, he heard that the caller was unavable, indicating that his call could not connect.

    Wang Lu furrowed his brows. With that happening, it was like he suddenly sobered up, making him abruptly sit up as he stared at his phone.

    "Why can''t I connect my call? Is she safe? Did something happen?"

    With that in mind, paranoia had started hunting him. He then sat up from his seat as he started calling his secretary again, more normal now than how he was moments ago.

    "Do everything you can to search for that man''s whereabouts. Understood?"

    With the order given to his secretary, Wang Lu did not wait for his reply before he ended the call. He then sat back on his chair slowly, as he felt nervous about Yan Mei and her safety.

 Chapter 241 Crazy for you

    <h4>Chapter 241 Crazy for you</h4>

    They already arrived at the restaurant. Liam opened the door for Ying Sheng as she smiled at him before entering the restaurant.

    It turns out that Liam had already made a reservation before they arrived. The receptionist of the restaurant noticed them immediately, smiling at them as she led them to their seat.

    Liam grabbed Ying Sheng''s seat, making her sit as Liam slowly pushed the chair back to the table.

    Liam then sat down on his seat, giving Ying Sheng the menu as they started looking over the meals.

    "Do you want to think, or do you want a surprise instead?" Ying Sheng asked, Liam, chuckling as he saw her narrowing her eyes at him.

    "You''re justzy to choose from the selection, Ying Sheng," Liammented, Ying Sheng,ughing when he heard his reaction. "However, I''d like to try the chef''s choice, too. I want to be surprised."

    With what Liam said, Ying Sheng called for the waiter''s attention. She told them that they would order the chef''s choice, the two of them feeling excited as their stomach grumbled due to hunger.

    "I wonder what kind of meat we would be tasting?" Ying Sheng wondered, Liam, smiling at her.

    "You know what makes me wonder?"

    "What?"

    Liam leaned in over the table to reach Ying Sheng''s face as he yfully pinched her cheek, teasing her.

    "How you could think of eating meat and not worry about your weight."

    Ying Shengughed as she brushed Liam''s hand aside.

    "Hey! I could eat anything that I want," she said, almost pouting.

    Liam chuckled, "I know. You have a fast metabolism. You could eat anything that you want."

    With what he said, Ying Sheng drank the sparkling water that was on their table. She then looked at him--curiosity seen in her eyes as a thought passed her mind.

    "Say, Liam," she called her attention, "If ever I''d get fat, would you still like me?"

    "What?"

    Liam did not expect her question. Ying Sheng looked at Liam with eagerness in her eyes, wondering what his answer would be.

    Liam then started imagining Ying Sheng if she were to gain more weight. He imagined her cheeks turning into a chipmunk''s, a little love handles found at her waist.

    Imagining this, Liam grinned as he stifled hisugh, Ying Sheng, narrowing her eyes at him as she wondered what Liam could be thinking.

    "Did you imagine me as a fatdy?" she asked, Liam, furiously shaking his head to disagree.

    "No, no!" Liamughed, "I imagined you having love handles and having chubby cheeks. If that were to happen, I would dly pinch both of your cheeks and your sides."

    "Wha--"

    Ying Sheng didn''t know if she should find his answer funny or insulting. She puffed her cheeks, making Liamugh out loud, finding her reaction cute.

    "You''re a meany," Ying Sheng mumbled, but still enough for Liam to hear. "It''s as if you''d forever make fun of me if I were to gain weight."

    Liam''sugh died little by little. He then smiled sweetly at Ying Sheng, extending his hand to tuck some of her hair behind her ear.

    "No matter what you look like, you would still be the same Ying Sheng."

    "Huh?"

    Ying Sheng''s heart skipped a beat when she heard Liam''s sweet words. Her eyes softened as their eyes locked with each other, Ying Sheng biting her lip as she listened to Liam speak.

    "Even though your appearance would change, it would not change the fact that I fell for you. Because in the first ce, it was your attitude that had pulled me towards you."

    "O-oh..." Embarrassingly, Ying Sheng averted her gaze from him. "How could you be so straightforward now? I thought you''re socially awkward," she mumbled, Liam,ughing at what she said.

    "I can''t be socially awkward forever, Ying Sheng," he replied, Ying Sheng, giggling at what he said.

    "Is this my influence on you?"

    Liam nodded, "Pretty much." He narrowed her eyes at her, teasingly smiling at her at the same time. "This is your impact is on my life, Ying Sheng. You''re my Big Bang."

    Ying Sheng could not help butugh out loud. With herugh infectious, Liam could not help butugh along with her.

    At the same moment, the food that they ordered came. Just like any other restaurant, it would always be their version of steak, paired with mashed potatoes if they wish.

    At the side, the waitress served them a ss of their best champagne as well, Liam and Ying Sheng giving each other''s drinks a toast for being together tonight.

    "A toast to Liam, for always being with me even though I don''t need help."

    Liam smiled, giving his toast to Ying Sheng as well.

    "And a toast to Ying Sheng, who''s continuously fighting for what is best for her. With that, I always want to be beside her, supporting her in anything that she does and wants."

    Ying Sheng smiled, showing her perfect white teeth.

    "Cheers."

    "Cheers."

    The two of them drank their wine as they enjoyed each other''spany. They ate their meal wholeheartedly as they enjoyed the night together, not caring that they are taking a slow time with each other.

    As their night together went on, Ying Sheng realized how blessed she was in having a man like Liam by her side.

    She has shown him her worst sides, yet Liam stayed as if he was unaffected by them.

    He did not hesitate to stay by her side as he continued trying his best to win over her heart.

    Liam was socially awkward, but Ying Sheng didn''t mind it. It is what made him cute and unique.

    With her thoughts wandering as Liam sliced her steak, Liam furrowed his brows as he thought what Ying Sheng could beughing about at this moment.

    "What''s wrong? Are you going crazy?" he asked, Ying Sheng nodding, answering his question only in her thoughts.

    ''Yes,'' she thought, not wanting to say her thoughts out loud. ''Soon enough, I''d go crazy for you, Liam.''

    Liam shook his head helplessly as a smile spilled from his lips. He enjoyed these moments with Ying Sheng. He doesn''t know when this will end but he was going to enjoy it and make beautiful memories out of it.

    As long as she was happy....that is the most important thing.

    A/N: Hello hope we are all good. Sorry for the chapter problem I didn''t check. Ohkiee so I haven''t written anything for a long time all the chapter is written by my sister but they are still my ideas. Please show her love by checking out her book. The Soul Eater''s possession.

    Like I said if the book is too much for you just drop it don''t force yourself to read it . Even writing the triggering chapters have taken a toil on me so I will understand.

    Your health first!

 Chapter 242 Dominantly yours

    <h4>Chapter 242 Dominantly yours</h4>

    (Warning: Mature content ahead)

    Lei Zhao turned off Yan Mei''s phone. He called Su Bei to tell her that she would need more days off from work.

    Due to themotion that happened a while ago, Su Bei only tly answered Lei Zhao, saying "yes," "understood," not wanting to prolong the conversation.

    Yan Mei was still in a daze inside Lei Zhao''s room in their family residence. She felt ashamed of staying because her husband''s family was with them in the house.

    Yan Mei felt that her image was gone. She thought that because of the video, Lei Zhao''s family now looked at her differently even though she knew that it was not her.

    Still, she lost her dignity and felt shame. She felt so bad to be here in this house--she knew that she would not even be able to sleep a wink!

    Lei Zhao looked at Yan Mei''s dazed expression. Yan Mei''s hair was on a messy bun, paired with her wearing a white bathrobe.

    With her in a daze, Lei Zhao worried for her, but still, at the same time, he could not help but think about the video he saw.

    Even then, seeing how Yan Mei was so adamant about telling them that it wasn''t her, Lei Zhao felt that he should believe her even though she provided no evidence.

    Lei Zhao felt her words strong. He knew that Yan Mei wasn''t the type to lie because she had been experiencing some dark secrets of her own, in which it continued hunting her even in the present.

    With that in mind, Lei Zhao sighed as he crossed his arms in front of his chest.

    "Rest, Yan Mei. Mother told us that she would already handle things on her end," he said, Yan Mei slowly turning her head to look at him.

    "Lei Zhao, I''m sorry."

    With Yan Mei apologizing to him, Lei Zhao walked towards her, holding her hand as he made her stand up so she could look straight in his eyes.

    "Why are you apologizing?"

    Yan Mei averted her gaze, feeling ashamed as she remembered the video ying during herunch.

    "My image is ruined, and I can''t risk ruining your image, too," she said, Yan Mei, looking up to him as tears escaped from her eyes. "So I''m asking for a divorce."

    Hearing that made Lei Zhao''s heart fall as if it rode an elevator that was bound to crash.

    "What did you say?"

    "I''m asking for a divorce. I can''t make you and your family risk because--"

    "Enough!"

    Lei Zhao''s voice roared, surprising Yan Mei as he pushed her towards the bed, with him quickly going on top of her as he aggressively pulled the strings of her robe, revealing her naked body.

    "There will be no divorce. Understand!?"

    "What did you say?"

    "I''m asking for a divorce. I can''t make you and your family risk because--"

    "Enough!"

    Lei Zhao''s voice roared, surprising Yan Mei as he pushed her towards the bed, with him quickly going on top of her as he aggressively pulled the strings of her robe, revealing her naked body.

    "There will be no divorce. Understand!?"

    "But, Lei Zhao, I--mm!"

    Without Yan Mei finishing her words, Lei Zhao ravished his lips upon Yan Mei''s, surprising her with his aggression as he felt his anger and frustrations in his actions.

    Yan Mei put both of her hands on his chest, attempting to push him away. She furrowed her brows as her eyes were closed shut, Lei Zhao''s tongue invading her mouth as he continued to kiss her hungrily.

    Surprising Yan Mei once more, Lei Zhao sat up, looking down on her as his eyes turned cold. Dumbfounded was Yan Mei as she first time witnessed this side of Lei Zhao.

    Lei Zhao caught Yan Mei by the wrist. She slightly winced as Lei Zhao abruptly grabbed her up, Yan Mei already sitting up in front of him.

    He then put both of her hands on his top, Lei Zhao''s gaze not leaving her as he ordered her, his words sultry and cold at the same time.

    "Undress me. Now."

    Yan Mei blinked her eyes a few times. Still, even though she was surprised, she felt that she did not want to disobey his husband, not even in the slightest.

    With her gaze shylynding on his polo, Yan Mei unbuttoned his shirt slowly, her fingertips brushing on his skin as it perfectly revealed his chiseled chest and abs.

    Yan Mei felt like she was having sex with Lei Zhao for the first time. She didn''t know why, but Yan Mei felt submissive under Lei Zhao''s condescending tone.

    But somehow, however, Yan Mei didn''t want to tell him to stop so she could understand why Lei Zhao''s acting this way.

    With Lei Zhao''s unbuttoned polo falling on the bed, Lei Zhao locked his eyes with Yan Mei. With her heart thumping crazily in her chest, Yan Mei looked down, Lei Zhao tipping her chin up so she could look at him.

    "Did I tell you to look away from me?"

    "No."

    Lei Zhao then scoffed as heid back on the bed, his head over his arm as he expectantly looked at Yan Mei, giving her the next orders.

    "You haven''t finished undressing me yet, Wifey."

    When Yan Mei heard what Lei Zhao said, it made Yan Mei feel like she was at a loss for words. With her blinking her eyes at him a few times, lost, Lei Zhao''s lips curled into a smirk.

    "I can''t wait all day, Wifey. Do you want me to punish you?"

    "P-punish me?"

    Lei Zhao grabbed Yan Mei, making her fall on top of him.

    "By telling me about that divorce!"

    Lei Zhao grew impatient. He slightly pushed Yan Mei to the side, the man already the one undressing his pants and underwear as Yan Mei''s eyes widened, watching him grow aggressive by the second.

    Quickly, Lei Zhao had thrown his clothes at the side, already attacking Yan Mei as he went on top of her, giving her another frenzied, wild kiss.

    ''Ah, so this is why he acted differently,'' Yan Mei thought as she allowed Lei Zhao to ravage her like a hungry beast. ''He hated the thought of the divorce.''

    A/N: Sorry guys but I can''t do it anymore. I have been breaking down a lot these days so I have decided to take a break. Not a long break I just need to pull myself together then I will be back. Please wait for me?

    Sorry for disappointing you guys.

 Chapter 243 Submissively yours

    <h4>Chapter 243 Submissively yours</h4>

    (Warning: mature content)

    With Yan Mei turned on by Lei Zhao''s aggressiveness, Yan Mei wrapped both of her hands around Lei Zhao''s neck. With her reciprocating the action, it was like a branch had snapped inside of Lei Zhao''s mind, allowing him to lose control.

    His free hand then started cupping one of her breasts, Yan Mei gasping against his lips as she felt pleased with how his fingers yfully flicked her nipple.

    Lei Zhao broke away from the kiss, the man already starting to make hickeys on her wife''s neck.

    Childish as it may seem, he didn''t care if the mark he left on her is going to be noticed by other people. It is a mark that indicated that Yan Mei is his and that she could never part away from him!

    Lei Zhao''s hand started to wander down from her breast, down to her entrance. The moment he teased her clitoris with his thumb, Yan Mei tipped her head up when she felt his finger enter her, thrusting, as her back started arching upwards in sheer pleasure.

    "L-Lei Zhao! Aaah!"

    Lei Zhao teasingly smirked against her neck as Yan Mei ran her hand through his hair.

    "You like that, Wifey? We''re just getting started," he whispered, Yan Mei heaving pants of pleasure as Lei Zhao continued to satisfy her.

    Yan Mei could not help but feel expectant. Lei Zhao started to trail his tongue on her body.

    He started from her neck, down to her breast, to her torso, then to her hips.

    When he was already near her entrance, he teasingly looked at Yan Mei as she looked down to meet his eyes, biting her bottom lip as she waited for what he was about to do next.

    Lei Zhao below her started flicking his tongue and asionally delving his tongue in, making Yan Mei moan as her hands tightened on the sheets around her.

    "Ah! Lei Zhao! Ah!"

    Yan Mei grabbed a fistful of Lei Zhao''s hair, her back arching up, her toes curling, as she continued to feel a series of explosive orgasms, almost making Yan Mei crazy!

    Satisfied with how wet Yan Mei is, Lei Zhao stopped as Yan Mei was about to get another orgasm. She groaned in exasperation as Lei Zhao intentionally stopped, a smug grin appearing on his face as hemanded her.

    "Go on all fours. Now."

    Yan Mei did what he said. Her legs were like jelly as she moved. She felt like, sooner orter, her mind would go nk, but she would have to follow Lei Zhao until they both end the night together.

    With Yan Mei now in position, Lei Zhao did not hesitate to thrust his shaft inside Yan Mei. He sharply inhaled as he made a strangled noise, suppressing his pleasure.

    "Ah! Lei Zhao. G-genlter--ah!"

    Yan Mei started pleading. However, she felt differentpared to their other moments in bed.

    She was begging him to be gentle, but at the same time, she wanted Lei Zhao to continue ramming himself inside her as she found him being rough sexy, and at the same time, more pleasurable.

    Lei Zhao never felt like this before. His hands tightened on her waist as he quickened the pace, Yan Mei''s wet pussypletely engulfing his hardened dick.

    With him remembering at the same moment that Yan Mei was asking for a divorce, Lei Zhao''s eyes had another glint in his eyes. It reflected his disapproval as he raised his hand, spanking Yan Mei on her ass.

    "Ah! Lei Zhao!"

    Yan Mei could not describe it. She always thought that being hit while having sex was painful, but know that she experienced it with Lei Zhao, it unexpectedly aroused her, the pang of pain on her skin pleasurable.

    It was then that Yan Mei realized that this could be one of her bedroom kinks.

    "What did you say, Yan Mei? What were you trying to tell me, hmm?"

    Lei Zhao asked her a question in between hard thrusts. Yan Mei knew what he was talking about, but then, she still answered her question, Yan Mei, knowing what Lei Zhao would do.

    "I''m asking for a divorce--ah!"

    Another spank came on Yan Mei''s ass. Her skin was flushed red in an instant as she bit her lip, the excruciating heat on her skin making her feel good.

    "You''re asking for a divorce? Hmm?"

    Lei Zhao gave her a few more spanks, Yan Mei moaning and screaming in pleasure as she hung her head low, her legs going weak by the second as she was about to reach her climax.

    "Lei Zhao, I''m about to--ah!"

    Satisfied with her reaction, Lei Zhao adjusted their position to missionary. He continued ramming into her as Yan Mei wrapped her legs around his waist, meeting his every thrust while her fingernails dug on his back.

    Lei Zhao and Yan Mei had their foreheads against each other. Beads of swearing from him dropped on Yan Mei, both of them panting as they kept meeting each other''s rhythm.

    Lei Zhao then passionately kissed Yan Mei as he further felt her fingernails wing on his back in satisfaction. His thrust was already losing the rhythm as both of their climax approaches.

    "Mmm!"

    Yan Mei''s mind was going nk, Lei Zhao grunting against her lips as both of them reached heaven together. The Earth stuttered on its axis as both of them dissolved into pleasure, Lei Zhao releasing the coil from within him.

    Yan Mei felt fire pooling in her as Lei Zhao fell on top of her, his head on her chest as the two panted, every ounce of their energy out of their body.

    "Say divorce one more time, this won''t be the only punishment that you''ll get," Lei Zhao said, Yan Mei, closing her eyes as she drifted off to sleep.

    Lei Zhao nted a kiss on her head as he sighed.

    ''Silly.'' His lips curved into a smirk as he looked at Yan Mei sleeping face.

    Suddenly a glint of light passed through his eyes as he remembered the video.

    A/N: Hy this is MysticAmy. Will be writing until Big Sis is doing okay! Because she is participating in win win and WN has promised coins giveaway as Xmas to privilege buyers she felt bad to not update since she wanted to give back to those supporting her. Also please while reading check out my book THE SOUL EATER''S POSSESSION. Thank you!

    Ah yes before I forget please be careful of yourments. One of the reasons for her breakdowns was it. We have a lot of exciting stuffsing please wait for us patiently

 Chapter 244 Forever yours

    <h4>Chapter 244 Forever yours</h4>

    Both of them had quickly drifted off to sleep. Lei Zhao slept on top of Yan Mei''s chest, allowing him to sleep there as if he was a child.

    Yan Mei did not mind it--she was too tired to mind that a big man such as Lei Zhao was sleeping on top of her.

    Hours had passed, and a small glimmer of sunlight had already passed through the curtains. Yan Mei slowly opened her eyes and saw that Lei Zhao was now already on his bedside, his arm wrapped around her waist.

    Yan Mei turned to her side. She watched him sleep as he remembered the conversation that they had yesterday.

    Yan Mei was asking for a divorce because she was worried about ruining Lei Zhao''s image. Even though she knew that his family is kind enough to investigate even for them, she felt wrong to be staying with him.

    With that in mind, her eyebrows furrowed. She now felt scared than ever of revealing the identity of her husband.

    Heck, she is even afraid now if she could still be married to him--if she could stay by his side despite what had happened.

    Yan Mei mindlessly reached out to Lei Zhao''s face, her fingers moving some of his hair away from his eyes.

    Yan Mei''s eyes reflected sadness and pain as she worried more and more for her husband.

    She even wondered if she still deserved him. Why is Lei Zhao still so kind after seeing those videos?

    If he imed that he had watched the video before in his office before it even yed in theunch, how could he ask her out and go to Disnend?

    If it were some other man, they would have long left Yan Mei. They would have already doubts about their wife--more so if there was no evidence shown to him.

    Feeling that someone was touching his face, Lei Zhao furrowed his brows, slowly opening his eyes to meet Yan Mei''s eyes. The moment their eyes locked, Yan Mei''s body froze, suddenly bing nervous even though they shared an exciting, intimate momentst night.

    "Wifey... isn''t it too early to be awake?" Lei Zhao asked, grogginess evident in his voice. "Go back to sleep," he said, pulling her in his arms as he nted a kiss on top of her head.

    Yan Mei blinked her eyes a few times. How can Lei Zhao be this kind to her even though he saw the video? How can Lei Zhao be this sweet even though she asked about having a divorce yesterday?

    "Lei Zhao," Yan Mei called out his name, "Why are you so kind to me, despite what happened?"

    Hearing that, Lei Zhao opened his eyes once more. He gave her a small smile as he tucked some of Yan Mei''s hair behind her ear, giving her his answer.

    "Yan Mei, I''m your husband. Why would I be so cold to you?"

    "But," Yan Mei''s eyebrows creased, "You saw the video. I could show no proof. How could you believe this?"

    When Lei Zhao heard this, he just looked straight in his eyes. He let out a small sigh as he nted another kiss on Yan Mei''s head, the woman feeling warm in her heart with how Lei Zhao treated her.

    "You said that it wasn''t you. At first, I was scared--I thought if it was you. But with you adamant, saying that it wasn''t, with the struggles you''re facing, I know I had to believe you."

    "Lei Zhao..."

    Yan Mei felt like she wanted to cry. With her eyes turning ssy early in the morning, Lei Zhao slightly widened his eyes in surprise to see her eyes watering.

    "H-hey..." Lei Zhao started wiping her tears away, "Don''t be so gloomy now. There was doubt in my heart, yes... but my love is still here," he said, leading Yan Mei''s hand to his chest.

    "Lei Zhao... you''re so kind," Yan Mei said, her tears escaping from her eyes. A small smile appeared on her husband''s face as he spoke, worried about the issue as well.

    "If you say you didn''t, then you didn''t," he said, Yan Mei nodding. "Still, we have to investigate, alright? I want the confirmation formally, too," he said, Yan Mei slowly nodding once more.

    "Or course."

    With that, Lei Zhao pulled Yan Mei in his arms again.

    "Did I hurt youst night?"

    With his question, Yan Mei''s ears reddened. It was as if she was a young girl having to experience sex when they had been doing it countless times already!

    Yan Mei coughed, realizing thatst night that Lei Zhao''s rage when she suggested the divorce turned her on.

    It was then that she also realized that one of her kinks was being spanked by him on the bed.

    "Ah..." Yan Mei embarrassingly hid her face on Lei Zhao''s chest, "No, You didn''t hurt me," she mumbled against him, but it was audible enough for Lei Zhao to hear.

    A smug grin appeared on the man''s face, "You liked it?"

    "O-oh you," Yan Mei looked up to face him, slightly narrowing her eyes at him. "Stop being so shameless early in the morning," she added, Lei Zhao, chuckling as he sat up, helping Yan Mei up as well.

    "Let''s have a shower together, then we''ll cook breakfast together," he said, Yan Mei now showing a slight difort and nervousness on her face.

    "Your family... I''m embarrassed showing my faces to them," she said. Lei Zhao shook his head then aforting smile appeared on his face.

    "Don''t worry, Wifey. My grandparents had gone homest night, and my mother went out early to start settling some things," he said, Yan Mei slowly nodding.

    "So we''re alone?"

    Lei Zhao nodded, "Yes. We''ll also talk about where we''d goter for the ''honeymoon'' mom suggested," he added, Yan Mei finally smiling as the two walked their way in the bathroom to take a bath together.

    Lei Zhao started filling up the tub with the appropriate amount of warm water. Once filled, he came in first, then gestured Yan Mei to sit right in front of him.

    Yan Mei followed. She had her back facing Lei Zhao, her husband embracing her as he rested his chin on her shoulder.

    "You scared mest night," Lei Zhao said, almost pouting. "How could you suggest having a divorce, hmm? Do you want me to die?"

    Yan Mei slightly giggled, "Scared? More like you were angry," shemented, Lei Zhao, chuckling at her reaction.

    "I''m sorry. I couldn''t help it," Lei Zhao said as he started getting the luffa at the side,thered it with soap, then rubbed it on Yan Mei''s back. "I did enjoy it, quite frankly," he added, Yan Mei slightly rolling her eyes at his remark.

    But she agreed. She enjoyedst night, too. It was a new experience for both of them, and she thought that what if they explored more in bed?

    Would they have enjoyed something even more?

    With her thoughts running wild during their bath time, Yan Mei coughed, making Lei Zhao cock his head to the side, wanting to tease her.

    "Why are you coughing again, Wifey? Are you fantasizing about your husband?"

    Yan Mei''s eyebrows twitched because of his shamelessness! She wanted to hit him, but at the same time, she liked to restrain herself.

    Being with Lei Zhao made Yan Mei feel a series of ups and downs. She sometimes found it difficult to express herself, but at the same time, she liked how she is enjoying most of the time with Lei Zhao.

    Being with him made Yan Mei realize that having a man like him is such a blessing.

    Yan Mei smiled, turning to Lei Zhao. She was now facing him, Yan Mei in between his legs as she stared right through his eyes.

    "Lei Zhao," she said her name with love in it. "Thank you... for believing in me even though it was difficult. I know you struggle, too."

    Lei Zhao did not expect what Yan Mei had said. With his heart racing as Yan Mei''s words reverberated in his chest, he grinned at her as he yfully sshed water towards her, Yan Mei giggling as the two started being yful.

    "I told you, didn''t I? I''d always be here. So no divorce. Ever."

    Yan Meiughed, showing her perfect white teeth. She sshed water on him as well, the two already ying as they enjoyed the morning together.

    Yan Mei felt uneasiness in her heart as the future awaits them. What if Lei Zhao would suddenly grow impatient with her? Would that happen?

    But with his reassuring words just now, Yan Mei felt that she could just go on with the flow and believe in his words. Knowing Lei Zhao, Yan Mei knew that he would not lie to her and would continue to be honest with her with his feelings.

    Yan Mei then decided right here and then that she should be more honest with Lei Zhao even though she started fearing what had happened in the past, and that it started haunting her now.

 Chapter 245 Feeling of Love

    <h4>Chapter 245 Feeling of Love</h4>

    Yan Mei and Lei Zhao finished bathing together. After they dressed up, they went straight to the kitchen to make breakfast.

    Lei Zhao spread the Nutt over the toast, sliced some strawberries, and put it on top of the toast as if it were cake decorations.

    There was joy in how he did it. As if for a moment, he was happily absorbed by a feeling of love that yed in his subtle smile and soft gaze.

    "Do you want anything else?" Lei Zhao asked, Yan Mei, nodding as she said her answer.

    "Coffee."

    "Of course."

    Before giving the toast, he had already gotten the coffee from the coffee maker and served both of them a mug each. Then he brought it over, his and Yan Mei''s.

    It is a breakfast that became a part of the rhythm of their lives together. Yan Mei thought at this moment that she would want more moments with Lei Zhao like this, but then her fear suddenly aroused.

    "Lei Zhao," she called out to him, a worried look stered on her face. "I''m still worried. I''m sorry. What if someday, I''ll continue to ruin your image?"

    Lei Zhao sighed, shaking his head in disapproval as he bit his toast, chewing before continuing to speak.

    "Yan Mei, how many times must I tell you that my image doesn''t matter?"

    Yan Mei looked down on her breakfast tter of toast, "I know you say that, but... I''m worried. You saw the video days ago, right? How could you trust me so much?"

    Lei Zhao''s lips turned into a tight line. Lei Zhao felt like no matter what he said, he could not convince Yan Mei to believe him even though he wanted to assure her of his feelings.

    Still, Lei Zhao would want to assure her a lot of times--in actions and in words that he meant it because he loves her.

    "Yan Mei." How he said her name was serious. "I saw the video before we even came for the therapy."

    Hearing this, Yan Mei furrowed her brows. If he ims that he watched the video days ago, even before they went to Disnend, how could he believe in her?

    If it were other men, they would continue to doubt her. If she would be in the same situation, would she do the same and not have doubts?

    It''s like Lei Zhao''s a saint!

    "If you watched it long ago, then why?"

    Lei Zhao gave Yan Mei a small smile, "How many times must I tell you, hmm? You struggled so much."

    Yan Mei creased her brows in consternation, "Do you think my past struggles are enough for you to believe that it was not me?"

    Hearing this question, Lei Zhao could not help but nod. He believed her in the end even though he had doubts.

    "I just believe you," Lei Zhao said, his words firm. "But what we have to do now is to look for this guy," he added, Yan Mei, staring straight into his eyes.

    "It''s the psycho," she mumbled, her hands on the table turning into tight fists. "I know that he''s doing this on purpose, but for what?"

    Lei Zhao and Yan Mei suddenly turned serious. It was quiet for a while, even leaving their breakfast unattended for a few minutes as they were pulled in their own thoughts.

    Yan Mei could not help but feel bad even though Lei Zhao keptforting her through his words and actions. To her, it was like she did not deserve it.

    At the same time, she wanted to get to the bottom of this, too. Knowing that this happened, a lot may happen. People involved in the video, Leng Shao and her, even though they knew that it wasn''t them, would have their images tarnished.

    How could they prove their innocence when the video was done so well? How did they pull this off?

    Yan Mei sighed, "I''m sorry, Lei Zhao," she apologized once more, getting his attention. "It makes me feel like you have been forced--falling in love with a monster like me."

    "Yan Mei, stop it," Lei Zhao retorted, pulling her in an embrace. "How can you call yourself a monster when you im that you didn''t even do it? You keep apologizing."

    Lei Zhao has a point. With Yan Mei saying that she felt like a monster, it was like she was guilty of doing something that she knew she didn''t even do.

    Yan Mei sighed, "I can''t help it. How could I prove my innocence?"

    "I already asked my secretary to do an investigation since I saw the video. We have to wait by then. Okay? Also, my mother is doing things on her end, too. She knows more connections than I do. So I hope we''d be hearing from her, too."

    Without saying a word, Yan Mei got her cup of coffee at the side and sipped it. With Lei Zhao''s reassuring words and with his constant reminder that they would get to the bottom of it, she felt slightly at ease.

    "Su Bei," Yan Mei then wondered, "She saw the video, too. She''s my close friend. How did she take it? With her also liking Leng Shao, his image might have..."

    Lei Zhao could already understand what Yan Mei meant without her even finishing her sentence. Yan Mei took a deep breath as she rested her head on Lei Zhao''s shoulder, her worries piling up one thing over the other.

    "We''ll get to the bottom of this, alright? Don''t worry." Lei Zhao wrapped his arm around Yan Mei''s shoulder, "I will protect you no matter what. No one can harm my wife."

    Yan Mei gave Lei Zhao a sweet smile. Some tears escaped her eyes as she felt that her husband had been slowly carrying the weight of her heart.

    "Then I guess we need to listen to your mother''s advice. We go out of the city for safety, huh," she said, Lei Zhao, nodding as he continued eating his toast.

    "Not only that. It''s also to avoid the toxicity happening. If we stay here longer, people would be more interested. If things go worse, then maybe they''ll look for this residential house, too," he said, Yan Mei, heaving another sigh.

    "I''m so sorry for dragging you into this," Yan Mei said, Lei Zhao, looking at her with serious eyes.

    "Yan Mei, would it be too much if I ask you to be more honest with me?"

    When Yan Mei heard this, she saw the glint of worry, sadness, and at the same time, eagerness in Lei Zhao''s eyes.

    He felt that to help Yan Mei, he would have to understand her past. At the same time, he also felt that he was pressuring her to open up when he knew that Yan Mei started struggling because of her past that kept haunting her.

    Snapping himself from his thoughts, Lei Zhao shook his head, speaking at the same time.

    "You know what, never mind. I would not want to force you to--"

    "I''ll try my best, Lei Zhao," Yan Mei interrupted, her words tugging his heartstrings.

    It meant a lot for his wife to open up to him. Now that Yan Mei said that she will try her best, he was now more determined than ever to protect her.

    Knowing more about his wife and about her past experiences, it was like they''re getting closer with their marriage.

    Yan Mei held Lei Zhao''s hand with both of her hands. She smiled at him as she nodded, her words traveling through his ear on its way to his mind and heart.

    "With you staying by my side regardless of everything, I would want to tell you about my past. It may be difficult, yes... but I know that you have to because I want you to stay."

    Yan Mei''s eyes turned ssy as tears started forming in her eyes. She tried her best to keep her tears at bay, but some escaped from the corner of her eyes.

    "I''m scared that once I tell you my past, you would leave me..."

    "Yan Mei."

    Lei Zhao''s heart ached to see her this way. He pulled her in a tight embrace, Yan Mei feeling vulnerable as she allowed herself to sob silently against his chest.

    "You think I would leave you? After what we''ve been through? If I was an ass, I would have left you the moment I saw the video in the office. I''m not stupid enough to decide anything out of whim without doing a proper investigation."

    "Lei Zhao..."

    What he saidforted her heart. Yan Mai raised her head from his chest, Lei Zhao, wiping her tears away with his thumb.

    "Like I said, we''re going to get through this. No one can harm my wife. I will protect you at all costs. Just stay by me and believe in me--and we''ll do it. Together."

    Yan Mei''s lips curled into a smile. She felt happy as Lei Zhao and her decided to fight this issue together.

    With that, the two continued eating breakfast as they nned where to go for their abrupt honeymoon.

    The two thought that they indeed need the time alone out of this city--away from the temporary hellhole.

 Chapter 246 A friendâ€™s pain

    <h4>Chapter 246 A friend''s pain</h4>

    Leng Shao stared at the wall as the disgust and anger of Su Bei shed across his eyes. He gulped down the beer he was holding. It felt like someone was squeezing his beating heart.

    Never in his wildest dreams did he think something like this will happen.

    No wonder Wang Lu was so sure that he had been sleeping with his wife. The video was so real and there is no way to debunk that it''s fake.

    Who¡ªwho can do something like this? Even though he secretly loved Yan Mei he would never sleep with her. He values his friendship with her more than everything.

    Now someone is taking advantage of this to tarnish her image. Was she okay? Did her husband believe her or like Wang Lu threw her out to the house?

    Leng Shao heaved a sigh. The media has been crowding over his house for days. Fortunately he didn''t go home. He hopes Yan Mei is also okay. He wanted to call and check up on her but he was afraid of her reaction.

    Will she think that he did that? Leng Shao gulped down more beer as his thoughts went haywire.

    The scene of the video kept ying in his head. The woman''s moans and voice sounded so much like Yan Mei. If he didn''t know her or was not part of the video he would also believe the video.

    Who could imitate someone so easily? Leng Shao furrowed his brows as he fell into a deep thought.

    Suddenly a face popped up in his mind.

    Wang Lu quickly shook his head. Even though she looked like Yan Mei and will imitate her once a while to prank others she will never do anything to hurt Yan Mei.

    Leng Shao was confident that whoever did this was an expert and it will be difficult to find faults. Even a powerful man like his father couldn''t find any clues about the person who leaked the video or made the video.

    Leng Shao was sure this video is connected to everything that happened five years ago. Once they find out who made the video or the people in the video, everything will be revealed.

    He ced his bottle of beer on the table and picked up his phone. After entering a series of numbers, he pressed the call button and waited for the person to pick up the call.

    "Sir¡­" Leng Shao''s secretary said the moment the call was connected. His voice was filled with fatigue. Clearly he was stressed out over all this issue.

    The media has been crowding all over theirpany and the shareholders have been calling nonstop. With the boss not around to oversee things everything was falling apart.

    Today has been the most stressful day in his life since he started working.

    "How are things?" Leng Shao squeezed his brows as he asked his secretary. He had recently gotten a deal and he was afraid this scandal would affect his business.

    "Bad Sir. The shareholders have been calling non-stop. They want to meet you."

    Leng Shao ran his hands through his hair and blew out air.

    "Hmm... anything else?"

    "Yes, the management team is suggesting you do a press conference to exin things."

    Leng Shao''s face contorted with a frown when he heard him.

    If he speaks on this matter, Yan Mei''s image will damage more. Since society always mes the woman when something like this happens.

    "No¡­.I won''t do any press conference."

    "But Sir¡­."

    "End of discussion. Tell the shareholders that I will be having a meeting with them tomorrow."

    The secretary clearly wanted to convince Leng Shao to do the press conference but he knew better than to argue with his boss.

    "Alright Sir."

    Leng Shao hung up the phone andid on the bed while staring at the ceiling. He had no idea on how he was going to convince the shareholders that the video was fake.

    He hopes everything will be okay. The sound of his phone ringing snapped him out of his thoughts.

    Leng Shao looked at the caller ID and sighed.

    "Mom¡­"

    "Leng Shao¡­.are you okay? Is Feng Mei okay? What happened? What is that video that the media is talking about? How did it get leaked?"

    The worried voice of his mother sounded at the other side of the phone once the phone got connected.

    Leng Shao heaved a sigh.

    "Mom¡­.I''m fine don''t worry. I don''t know about Yan Mei but I''m sure her husband will take care of this. Believe me I''m not the person in the video. You believe me right?"

    "...." Silence filled the other side of the phone as Leng Shao waited for his mother''s reply.

    "Mom¡­" Leng Shao felt his heart racing in his chest as he waited for his mother''s reply. He can bear everyone''s distrust but not his mother''s.

    "Leng Shao¡­.don''t you like Feng Mei? You have liked her all these years¡ª"

    "Mom! Are you doubting me?" Leng Shao asked, pain evident in his voice.

    "No-no I''m not. Of course I know the person in the video is not you. My son will never do this."

    Leng Shao let go of the breath he was holding. He would really be hurt if his mother had doubted him.

    "But the video is so real. Who could do something like this? Have you offended someely? Should Ie to City S?" Leng Shao''s mother asked. Clearly as a mother she was worried about her son.

    "No mom. I''m fine. Dad is helping me solve things here. I''m sure we will get to the bottom of this soon."

    "Alright take care! I love you!"

    "Love you too mom."

    Leng Shao said as he hung up the call.

    Mrs. Leng looked at the phone in her hands and a glint of light passed through her eyes.

    How did the video get leaked? No...Who recorded that video in the first ce. For some weird reason she couldn''t help but get scared.

    She took a deep breath and shook her head. Everything will be okay. It has to be.

    **************

    "Su Bei, are you okay?" You have locked yourself in your room the moment you came back from theunching. Weren''t you going to be introduced as the vice president of thepany? Did something happen?"

    Jun Cha asked her daughter who was lying on the bed. She hadn''t been out of her room since she came back from theunch. She hasn''t even removed her dress.

    She was wearing the gown she had worn to the g. Her makeup was smeared on her face and her eyes were puffy. Clearly from crying.

    Thest time she saw Su Bei like this was when her father left them.

    "Su Bei¡­.say something. I-I" A series of coughs interrupted Jun Cha.

    Su Bei sat up when she heard her mother coughing.

    "Mom,are you okay?" Su Bei asked, concern evident in her tone.

    Jun Cha forced out a smile and nodded. She knew her body better. She knew she didn''t have enough time left but she didn''t want to worry her daughter.

    Before she leaves she wants to see her daughter happy and well off. Every mother wants what is best for their child and she was no different.

    "Hmmm¡­.I''m fine. Now tell Mom what''s wrong." Jun Cha cupped Su Bei''s cheeks as she caressed it gently."

    Looking at the soft look in her mother''s eyes. Su Bei couldn''t help but break down again. She threw herself in her mother''s arms as she cried out.

    "Oh my baby¡­.what is wrong? Tell mummy. Is it a boy? Has a boy hurt my dear daughter?"

    Su Bei shook her head aggressively as she hugged her mother tighter. Nothing can beat a mother''s warmth.

    "Then what''s wrong? Did something happen at work? Are you sick? Tell me. I''m worried."

    "I- For the first time I liked someone but he-he¡­.."

    Sobs racked through Su Bei as she tried to calm down. It hurts so much. She never knew heartbreak can hurt like this. It''s like someone was stepping on her heart and internal organs. She was bleeding inside and she couldn''t even scream out.

    "What did he do dear? Tell me." Jun Cha furrowed her brows as she asked. She knew because of her sickness, her daughter hasn''t had time for rtionships because she was busy taking care of her but now that she liked a guy it seems something really bad has happened.

    "Mom¡­.he-he likes my best friend not me. All this while I-I thought he liked me. I even envisioned our future together."

    Su Bei let out a humorlessugh as she wiped away her tears. She pulled away from her mother and stared at her fingers.

    Jun Cha knitted her brows together.

    "Your best friend? Who? Yan Mei?"

    Su Bei yed with her fingers and nodded.

    "Yes Mom. He likes her not me. Why mom¨Cwhy? Now I don''t know what to do. What should I do mom?"

 Chapter 247 Bad friend

    <h4>Chapter 247 Bad friend</h4>

    Jun Cha took Su Bei''s hands and gave it a gentle squeeze.

    "Hm, that''s why you''re sad? Because the guy my little girl likes loves another person and that person is your best friend."

    Su Bei looked away and nodded.

    "Does Yan Mei knows that the guy loves her? Does she also love him? Does she know that you love the guy?"

    Jun Cha asked calmly, as she waited for Su Bei''s reply.

    Su Bei turned around to face her mother and furrowed her brows.

    "No..I don''t think so. She is happily married and seems to love her husband. And from how she talks I don''t think she knows Leng Shao is in love with her. For her, he is her best friend and brother¡­"

    Su Bei trailed off when she realized that she had been overreacting and shouldn''t feel angry at her friend. A whole day has gone by since the incident and she hasn''t even called her friend to ask how she was.

    Even though she didn''t know if the video was fake or true as a friend she should be there for her friend.

    "Mama¡­."

    Jun Cha sighed and petted Su Bei''s hair.

    "Don''t tell me you were feeling hurt because you thought your best friend has betrayed you?"

    Su Bei bowed her head in shame as she nodded.

    "I was hurt. I thought she was just ying with me. She knew I clearly like Leng Shao so why would she y with my feelings like this. You should have seen the video mum. The people in the video look exactly like Yan Mei and Leng Shao. It''s difficult not to believe the video!"

    Su Bei retorted. All of this was difficult to take in.

    Jun Cha raised her brows when she heard her daughter.

    "Video? What video?" She asked clearly confused about what her daughter was talking about. She rarely listen to the news or look at the newspapers so she wasn''t aware of the trending news in the country now.

    "The video...I''m sure it''s all over the news. You haven''t seen it yet mum?"

    Jun Cha shook her head. Su Bei quickly took her phone and switched it on. She froze when she saw the several missed calls from Leng Shao and Yan Mei.

    She blinked and stared at her phone in her daze.

    "Su Bei." Her mother''s soft voice snapped her out of her daze.

    She looked up at her mother and looked down at her phone again. She turned on her data connection and searched Yan Mei''s scandal. But nothing came up. It''s like the news had disappeared out of thin air.

    Su Bei looked at her mother. "The news they have deleted it."

    Jun Cha nodded in understanding. "So tell me, what happened?"

    "While Yan Mei was gaving a speech a video started ying behind her. The video it was a sex tape."

    Su Bei took a deep breath as she continued talking.

    "It was a sex tape between Yan Mei and a man. Leng Shao¡ªthe man that I like."

    Jun Cha frowned as she listened to her daughter. She had worked in the upper society as a maid for years so she knew not to be deceived by everything she sees or hears. People can do anything to destroy other people''s life.

    Also, something like this was quitemon in the upper society.

    "Are you sure the person in the video was your friend? She looked exactly like her?"

    Su Bei nodded.

    "Yes Mom. She looked exactly like Yan Mei. Even though Yan Mei''s voice is more mature now you can clearly hear that the voice is hers. And the man looks exactly like Leng Shao."

    Jun Cha knitted her brows. She has met her daughter''s friend on numerous asions and Yan Mei sometimes secretly gives her money and let her promise her not to tell Su Bei. For this kind hearted woman, Jun Cha was fond of her.

    She doesn''t think that Yan Mei will be able to do something like this. The woman was too cold and proud to do such a lowly thing.

    Also a smart woman who has been able to build a business from scratch wouldn''t risk such a stain on her reputation. Unless¡­.she has offended someone.

    Jun Cha''s years and experience in life made her more clear minded to think things through instead of believing the general public.

    "Have you spoken to your friend? What did she say?"

    Su Bei shook her head. "No...I haven''t."

    Jun Cha sighed and knocked her daughter''s forehead.

    "Silly. Something big like this happened and you haven''t called your friend? You should at least listen to her exnation before you jump into conclusions."

    Jun Cha stood up and stared at her daughter.

    "Go and freshen up. You stink. Breakfast is on the table. After you finish eating, call your friend. Listen to her exnation and decide for yourself if you''re going to believe her or not. Remember¡­.friends are meant to be there for each other no matter how hard the road gets."

    Without waiting for her response, Jun Cha left Su Bei''s room.

    Su Bei stared at her mother''s retreating back and screamed. Everything was driving her insane.

    She stood up and walked to the bathroom. After standing in the shower and organizing her thoughts for half an hour she came out.

    She put on baggy cloths and walked to the kitchen. As promised, her mother had prepared breakfast for her. Su Bei sat down and yed with her food as her thoughts went haywire.

    Heaving a sigh, she stood up and walked back to her room. She picked up her phone and took a deep breath as she dialed Yan Mei''s number.

    On the third rang the call was connected.

    "Su Bei¡­.Thank God. I was worried about you. I thought something bad had happened to you."

    Yan Mei''s worried voice sounded the moment the call was connected.

    Su Bei blinked away the tears that was threatening to fall. She wasn''t expecting Yan Mei to be still worried about her.

    She was expecting Yan Mei to shout at her and call her names for abandoning her. God, she was such a bad friend.

    Yan Mei frowned when she didn''t hear Su Bei talking.

    "Su Bei, are you okay?" Yan Mei asked.

    "Yan¡ªMei." Su Bei sniffled as she called out her friend''s name."

    Yan Mei frowned at the other side when she heard Su Bei''s breaking voice.

    "Hey¡­.why are you crying? Is it because of me? Believe me Su Bei. The woman in the video is it me! I will never sleep with Leng Shao. He is like my brother. I will never. I-I don''t know who did this or what their intentions are but once I find them. I''m going to skin them alive. You have to believe me Su Bei. It''s really not me. I will never do anything to hurt you!"

    Yan Mei exined in one breath since she was afraid that Su Bei will misunderstand. Yan Mei had seen how happy her friend was these past few days because of Leng Shao. She thought she had finally found her prince charming but now all these drama is destroying her newfound happiness.

    "You sure it''s not you and Leng Shao?" Su Bei asked Yan Mei anxiously.

    "Yes..yes it''s not us. We have never even kissed how can I sleep him! Don''t tell me you don''t believe me?"

    Yan Mei asked disappointment evident in her tone.

    "I do now. Sorry Yan Mei for doubting you."

    Yan Mei heaved a sigh,"As long as you believe me now it''s okay. I understand. It''s hard not to, what that video. I''m sure anybody will have doubts too."

    "How are you?" Su Bei asked her friend. Now that Yan Mei had confirmed that the video is fake, she felt like a huge burden has been removed from her shoulders.

    "I''m fine. What about you? Have you heard from Leng Shao? I know this is difficult Su Bei but Leng Shao will never lead you on if he doesn''t see himself with you. You are the first girl he has gone with in years that he had kept in contact with. Please don''t let this video separate you two."

    Su Bei chuckled inwardly when she heard Yan Mei. She wonders if Yan Mei would say the same thing if she knew that the person that Leng Shao likes is her and not her Su Bei.

    Ignorance is truly a bliss. Yan Mei doesn''t have to live with the burden of having the guy she considers as a brother to love her.

    "How are things with Lei Zhao and his family? Is everything okay? I saw that the news had disappeared from the inte.

    "Yes. He is very supportive. He says he believes me and his family also believes me. I''m really lucky to have meet Lei Zhao. I even suggested a divorce but he refused."

    Yan Mei chuckled as she said. Her heart couldn''t help but swell with happiness as she talks about Lei Zhao.

    That man was truly an angel from above. Maybe God specially crafted him just for her.

    Su Bei''s lips curved into a smile as she heard the joy in her friends voice. As long as Lei Zhao believes her and support her than she is happy for her friend.

    "That''s good. You deserve to be happy. I''m sure we will find the person soon!" Su Bei said as she tried to cheer her friend up.

    "Yes, his mother suggested we leave the country for a while. I will call you when I get back. Take care. I love you."

    "Love you too."

 Chapter 248 A special kind of Dessert

    <h4>Chapter 248 A special kind of Dessert</h4>

    "Are you okay?" Lei Zhao asked the moment Yan Mei hung up the call. He ced his arms around her back as he pressed his lips on the side of her forehead.

    They were currently in a small ind far away from city S. The ind was truly beautiful. The moment Yan Mei set foot from the wooden boat and her feet touched the sand, She felt awe-struck. The cool wind swept her hair, making it flew over her shoulder.

    The dazzling blue view of the ocean, the immacte white beaches and the elemental green of the pine trees and the rain forest stole her breath.

    The sounds of the birds was all it took to bring freedom and happiness on her beautiful face.

    "Hmm...yeah I am." Yan Mei breathed, making Lei Zhao breathed a sigh of relief. He has been trying hard to make his wife happy during the flight but seeing the smile on her face once she saw the ind made him felt more better.

    As they say, a happy wife makes a happy home.

    "Good." Lei Zhao said, squeezing her hand.

    "Is your friend okay?"

    Yan Mei nodded and sighed, "I understand this must be difficult for her too. She really likes Leng Shao and seeing someone who looks like me and him in a sex video must be hard on her."

    Lei Zhao bumped his brows together and nodded in understanding.

    "Hmm. Everything will be fine. We will solve this mystery and everything will go back to the way it was. I hope she is a good friend not to let go you during this this."

    Yan Mei took a deep breath, "Yeah, I just hope she gaves Leng Shao a chance and doesn''t do anything she will regretter."

    Seeing the sullen mood of his wife while talking about this issue, Lei Zhao changed the topic.

    "We can explore the ind after you take a nap. Don''t worry we will find the whereabouts of the psycho soon. Hopefully by sunset tomorrow. Is that okay with you?"

    "Yeah. I can look for him quicker if I had something that he owns but¨C"

    Lei Zhao frowned and shook his head, interrupting Yan Mei.

    "No matter what happens unless it''s an emergency don''t use your special ability. Do you understand? I''m sure powerful people are already searching for you in the shadows after you used it while searching for me a few months ago. Don''t expose yourself too soon.

    Also, doesn''t it weaken you after you''re done? We can''t do anything that will make you weak during this moment. Lot of things are going on right now, I cannot riskprising your safety."

    You have to be strong Wifey. Especially mentally. We have to train you not to break down once youe into contact with that psycho.

    Yan Mei felt warm about how he cares about the little details about her and always thinking about her safety.

    "Okay." Yan Mei said as she watched the waves with a smile etching on her face.

    "Don''t worry Wifey. We will solve this issue soon so we can focuse hard on having a baby. This issue is taking all your energy and I don''t like it. I would rather it''s something else that is taking all your energy."

    Lei Zhao whispered in her ears as he stood behind her, his chest supporting her back as she leaned back into him.

    Lei Zhao''s hands traveled to her waist sending shivers along her spine. Gently he turned her around as he leaned forward and nted a kiss on her forehead. He then nted a soft kiss at her corbone.

    "Lei Zhao¡­.." Yan Mei rasped when she saw his eyes flickering with desire.

    "Will you go on a date with me, tonight?" He asked as his brown orbs bore into hers looking for her approval.

    "Hmm¡­..maybe?" Yan Mei said yfully as she pushed him away.

    "Convince me. Why should I go on a date with you, Mr. Lei?"

    Lei Zhao looked at his wife glowing in a perfect mood and couldn''t help but y along.

    "Apart from the delicious meals and magnificent view that you will have. I will givebyou the best dessert ever."

    Yan Mei raised her brows at his statement. Now she was curious about this dessert he was talking about. Seeing the mischievousness in his eyes, she knew he was going to say something naughty.

    "Oh? And what dessert will that be?"

    "The dessert that will leave you unable to think, just feel and get lost in the moment. The dessert that will make your leg unable to stop shaking and by sun rise tomorrow, everyone on this ind will know my name."

    Yan Mei bite her lips as a blush coated her cheeks. She turned away from his intense stare and nodded.

    "Congrattions Mr. Lei, you got yourself a date."

    "Perfect." Lei Zhao beamed as he pressed a soft kiss on her blushing cheeks before taking a step back.

    A smile etched on Yan Mei''s face as she started browsing the cozy room they were in.

    "Nice ce." Yan Mei teased, looking back at Lei Zhao who was as usual staring at her.

    "Hmm, it''s nice because the most beautiful woman has graced it it??s presence. The ce is literally glowing because of you."

    Lei Zhao said. Yan Mei rolled her eyes at him and shook her head.

    "Cheesy."

    Lei Zhao chortled, "Go and rest Wifey. I want you refresh and gain lots of energy for tonight."

    Yan Mei pouted, "But I don''t want to sleep."

    Lei Zhao smirked and pulled her into the bedroom.

    "Here,e sleep in my arms. I''m sure you will fall asleep in no time."

    Yan Mei beamed, "Sounds good."

    She moved closer to Lei Zhao on the bed as he nted a kiss on her forehead.

    "Just close your eyes and listen to my heart beating only for you. You will fall asleep soon."

    A/N: Please don''t open next chapter. Wait for about 2-3 hours more before you open it. Thanks for understanding. Happy Sunday!

 Chapter 249 Wonâ€™t let go

    <h4>Chapter 249 Won¡¯t let go</h4>

    "You my darling, looks splendid." Lei Zhao said as he gazed lovingly at his wife. Yan Mei was wearing a simple loose white dress thatplimented her pale skin.

    Her lips were painted red and her hair was pulled into a ponytail making her look simple yet gorgeous.

    A smile etched on Yan Mei''s face when he heard hispliment.

    "Thank you. You don''t look bad yourself."

    Lei Zhao chuckled and took her hand and brought it up to her lips, gently kissing them before helping her take a seat.

    The dinner date went extremely well. Lei Zhao had personally prepared the food ording to Yan Mei''s tastes and it tasted heavenly.

    After the date they went on a small stroll on the beach while making conversation with Lei Zhao asionally stealing kisses from her.

    Heid her to a bonfire that he had made someone set up for them.

    Yan Mei raised her brows when she saw the bonfire and looked at Lei Zhao.

    "What is going on?"

    Lei Zhao smirked and led her to the bonfire. There was a guitar there. Lei Zhao picked the guitar making Yan Mei giggled.

    "Don''t tell me you''re going to y the guitar?"

    Lei Zhao grinned and struck a cord causing Yan Mei to be surprised.

    They sat down as Lei Zhao began to y a tune. Yan Mei widened her eyes as she recognized the music.

    "I met you in the dark, you lit me up

    You made me feel as though I was enough

    We danced the night away, we drank too much

    I held your hair back when

    You were throwing up

    Then you smiled over your shoulder

    For a minute, I was stone-cold sober."

    Lei Zhao sang as he gazed lovingly at Yan Mei. Yan Mei couldn''t help but feel giddy. She smiled as she sway her body to the tune.

    "I pulled you closer to my chest

    And you asked me to stay over

    I said, I already told ya

    I think that you should get some rest

    I knew I loved you then

    But you''d never know

    ''Cause I yed it cool when I was scared of letting go

    I know I needed you

    But I never showed

    But I wanna stay with you until we''re grey and old

    Just say you won''t let go

    Just say you won''t let go

    I''ll wake you up with some breakfast in bed

    I''ll bring you coffee with a kiss on your head

    And I''ll take the kids to school

    Wave them goodbye

    And I''ll thank my lucky stars for that night

    When you looked over your shoulder

    For a minute, I forget that I''m older

    I wanna dance with you right now

    Oh, and you look as beautiful as ever

    And I swear that everyday you''ll get better

    You make me feel this way somehow

    I''m so in love with you

    And I hope you know

    Darling, your love is more than worth its weight in gold

    We''vee so far, my dear

    Look how we''ve grown

    And I wanna stay with you until we''re grey and old

    Just say you won''t let go

    Just say you won''t let go

    I wanna live with you

    Even when we''re ghosts

    ''Cause you were always there for me when I needed you most

    I''m gonna love you ''til

    My lungs give out"

    His eyes stared intensely at Yan Mei as if he was making a vow. Yan Mei took in a deep breath to control her emotions as she listened to the man she loves pour out his affections for her.

    "I promise ''til death we part like in our vows

    So I wrote this song for you, now everybody knows

    That it''s just you and me ''til we''re grey and old

    Just say you won''t let go

    Just say you won''t let go

    Just say you won''t let go

    Oh, just say you won''t let go"

    Lei Zhao striked the final chord and smiled affectionately at Yan Mei.

    "How was it? Have I made your heart swell with love? Is it going to burst out of your chest?" Lei Zhao said sarcastically as he winked at her.

    Yan Mei yfully rolled her eyes at him. Ignoring his shamelessness she asked him, "Where did you learn how to y the guitar and sing like that! You''re so good!"

    Yan Mei screamed excitedly like a little fan girl.

    "You can be an idol! With your face and voice I''m sure all the girls will swoon over you."

    Lei Zhao chuckled at her words and shook his head helpless.

    "Hmmm. Maybe I should consider being an idol. I might find some beauties topany me."

    Yan Mei''s smile dropped the moment she heard him.

    "What beauties? Lei Zhao you dare think about other women?"

    Lei Zhao chuckled and wrapped his hands around her waist. With the most beautiful woman right here in my arms why would I think about other women."

    Yan Mei smiled when she heard him.They stayed quietly in each other''s arms as they looked at the stars in the sky.

    They both such a rxing moment between them it''s extremely rare and they have to cherish it.

    "Do you know why I brought you to this ind?" Lei Zhao suddenly asked breaking the silence.

    Yan Mei shook her head and turned to look at him.

    "Why?"

    "Because I heard the stars here at night are extremely beautiful. I know how much you love watching the stars so I brought you here."

    Yan Mei smiled when she heard him.

    What will she do if she hadn''t met this man, right here?

    Will she ever be happy if she hadn''t met him?

    "Dear stars, thank you for leading such a wonderful man to me. Mom, baby, bestie I know it''s you guys will sent such a lovely man to me. Thank you. Don''t worry, I''m going to fight for this rtionship and my happiness."

    Lei Zhao yfull poked Yan Mei''s cheeks.

    "What are you thinking about?"

    "You. I''m thinking about you."

    Lei Zhao grinned and hugged her tighter as they enjoyed being in each other''s arms.

    Song by: James Arthur

    Title: Say you won''t let go

    Credit to the sing

    It''s my favorite song ~~~

    Lol

 Chapter 250 A motherâ€™s pride

    <h4>Chapter 250 A mother''s pride</h4>

    Leng Shao wanted so badly to make it up to Su Bei. He walked inside his room, back and forth, as he thought of ways to talk to Su Bei.

    He had never felt this way before. He wanted to clear his name. He only met Su Bei recently, but Leng Shao already felt strongly for her.

    He thought that if she continued having a bad image of him, he would not take it so well. That very thought made his heart start to ache.

    "No," Leng Shao mumbled to himself as he ran his hand through his hair, "I should talk to her. I should tell her that it''s not me. I should convince her so she won''t ever leave me."

    With that in thought, Leng Shao went out of his room and got his car keys. He just wore ordinary clothes as he remembered by memory where Su Bei lives.

    As he was driving to her house, he could not help but speed up his drive. He wanted to talk to her immediately--he was desperate to clear up his name immediately.

    Su Bei--he could not afford to lose her just because of this misunderstanding!

    With that in mind, Leng Shao furrowed his brows as he felt so much determined to reach their ce. The 30-minute drive from his house to Su Bei''s residence had cut in half.

    The moment he had arrived in front of Su Bei''s house, Leng Shao came out of his car in an instant. He briskly walked towards the door and had rung the bell.

    He waited for a few seconds. He was tapping his foot as he waited for someone to answer the door. His heart started racing fast as each second passed, nervous at how Su Bei would react to see him after having a conversation with him during theunch.

    After a few seconds, the door opened, only to show another woman.

    She had her hair tied in a bun, some tendrils of her hair at the sides of her face. She was wearing her work attire as if already preparing to leave for work.

    She had some faint features of Su Bei, only slightly older. Could she be Su Bei''s mother?

    "Yes? Is there something that you need?"

    Snapping himself out of his thoughts the moment he heard the woman''s voice, Leng Shao showed her a small smile as he introduced himself, stating his business as well.

    "I am sorry to havee unannounced, but the name is Leng Shao," he said, extending his hand towards her to do a handshake.

    "I see," the woman said, discreetly looking up and down on the man before her.

    A tall and handsome man--his beauty was beyondpare. Seeing this standing pulchritude before her, the woman could already deduce who he was and why he''s here.

    ''This might be the man Su Bei is talking about?'' she thought, the woman clearing her mouth before talking.

    "Leng Shao," she said her name, giving the man a handshake. "I am Su Bei''s mother."

    "Oh!"

    Leng Shao gave her a small bow, his nervousness increasing to know that he was talking to Su Bei''s mother. He did not think of the other possibilities. Of course, Su Bei could also live with one of her family members.

    Now that he''s here, he could not possibly back away. Besides, he came here to make it up to Su Bei.

    Shaking himself from his thoughts, Leng Shao gave her another smile.

    "Nice to meet you, Mrs. Su," he greeted her, Su Bei''s mother nodding in acknowledgment. "I came here to talk to Su Bei. Is she here, perhaps?" he said and asked, the woman eyeing him as Leng Shao waited for her answer.

    "You came here to visit my daughter?" Mrs. Su asked, Leng Shao almost gulping to sense the tone of her voice. "Why?"

    With Su Bei''s mother already asking him what his purpose is, he could not disrespect her by not answering his question. With him remembering the purpose why he was there, his determination never swayed, allowing him to tell her mother why he came to visit.

    "Su Bei and I had a misunderstanding," he said directly, not delving into too many details. "I want to make it up with her because our distance is something I would not want to tolerate."

    "Oh."

    Su Bei''s mother internally smiled when she heard the man''s determination to make up with her daughter. With him being honest about why he was here, Mrs. Su could not help but want to talk to him.

    "Su Bei is inside," Mrs. Su said honestly, a light in Leng Shao''s eyes passing through as he felt that he had now the hope to talk to Su Bei. "Come in. We shall have a short talk before I call on her."

    Mrs. Su invited Leng Shao inside of their humble abode. The moment she closed the door, Leng Shao did not move an inch until Mrs. Su led them to the living room, motioning him to sit down as she sat on the single couch present in the room.

    "She didn''t leave her room yet," she said, Leng Shao slowly sitting down as he intently listened to Su Bei''s mother. "What happened between you two, and why has she locking herself up in her room, hmm?"

    Coincidentally, there was tea in front of them. Perhaps, Mrs. Su was already having her tea before she leaves home.

    Mrs. Su poured a cup of tea for Leng Shao, the man graciously receiving it from the woman.

    "Thank you," he said, Su Bei''s mother nodding, then she sipped her tea.

    Leng Shao could not help but feel uneasy and nervous as they sat before each other, talking about Su Bei. Leng Shao, however, mustered his courage so he could at least get some advice from Su Bei''s mother.

    "Mrs. Su, your daughter, I just met her recently, but I already feel that she is a special person," he said, Mrs. Su just looking at Leng Shao as he continued talking. "Now that we are not talking to each other, I felt uneasy, but I came here because I want to prove my innocence."

    "Hmm..." Mrs. Su put down her cup of tea on the table, "And why would you want to prove your innocence? Have you cheated on my daughter?"

    Leng Shao''s eyes widened, "Oh, no, no, Mrs. Su!" Leng Shao could not help but shake his head profusely, "I would never have the audacity to do so! Even though I am still courting your daughter, I would never--"

    Mrs. Su slightly giggled. Leng Shao blinked his eyes a few times as he now noticed that Su Bei''s mother was messing with him.

    "I''m sorry, I was just teasing you a little," she said, Leng Shao feeling embarrassed as he averted his gaze away from her. "I have no idea what had happened, but if you''re here, then I could say that you are serious about my daughter, no?"

    "Yes." Leng Shao''s answer was firm as a rock. "I came here because I want to make it up to her. Since Mrs. Su is here, I would like to ask for advice?"

    "Ah..." A genuine smile appeared on the woman''s face, "Su Bei..." she trailed off as a sweet expression appeared on her face.

    "It is my daughter''s first time liking someone, so it is understood that she is surprised and would resort to silence since she would not know what to do."

    "I-I see..."

    Leng Shao''s face showed a slight hurt expression. Now knowing that it was him that Su Bei liked for the first time, he felt his heart aching to have a misunderstanding because of the video.

    "Don''t fret," Mrs. Su said, getting Leng Shao''splete attention. "I only advise you to be patient with my daughter," she added, Leng Shao''s eyes focused on her mother sitting in front of him.

    "You think she would forgive me, Mrs. Su?" Leng Shao asked, the woman yfully shrugging her shoulders to give him an answer.

    "I know my daughter, but it is still up to her to make the decision," she said, Leng Shao heaving a small sigh as his hands turned into tight fists.

    "Then I''ll do my best to make it up to her--no matter what it takes," he said, Mrs. Su nodding in approval as he stood up, making Leng Shao stand up as well.

    "Then I''ll leave you two together then since I would be leaving for work," she said, taking a deep breath before shouting, her voice echoing in the room. "Su Bei, you have a visitor!"

    "I''m not expecting anyone!" A voice called out, her mother rolling her eyes as she did another shout.

    "Leng Shao is here in the living room!"

    Silence.

    Then suddenly, followed by a loud sound of a door opening and fast sounds of footsteps echoing in the room. The moment Su Bei saw from the second floor that Leng Shao was in front of her mother, her eyes instantly widened to have seen him inside their house.

    "L-Leng Shao? When, why, how--?"

    Hearing her daughter stammer over her words, Mrs. Su started walking away, the cking of her heels heard echoing.

    "You guys talk it out, I''ll be heading out for work."

    The moment they heard the door close, Leng Shao and Su Bei realized that they were now alone in the house together.

    Su Bei was still looking down on Leng Shao, as the man looked up at her with sad eyes.

    "Su Bei," she said his name, sweetness etched in his voice. "Can youe down, please? I want to talk to you."

    Su Bei felt her heart racing. His words echoed in the room, traveling through her ears as she felt her heartstrings being pulled like a tug-of-war.

    "Okay," she agreed, running her hand through her hair as she remembered that she was wearing only a long shirt, "I need to change into some proper clothes first..."

 Chapter 251 Cafe love

    <h4>Chapter 251 Cafe love</h4>

    Leng Shao waited for Su Bei as she said that she would change into her clothes. He patiently waited as he sat on the couch, his foot tapping as he felt nervous with each passing second.

    With Su Bei''s surprise of seeing Leng Shao at their house, she did her best to rush as she rummaged her closet, thinking of the clothes to wear.

    She got some dresses as she put them on the bed, contemting about which dress suits her better.

    As seconds passed by, Su Bei''s body froze as she groaned, rolling her eyes at the same time.

    "Why am I worrying about what to dress?" she mumbled to herself, already getting a simple day dress from her bed. "It''s not like we''re going on a date or something."

    She then remembered what had happened between her and Leng Shao back at theunch. With the video still bothering her, Su Bei could not help but feel uneasy.

    However, seeing Leng Shao now made her realize that he is somehow determined toe clean to her.

    Shaking herself from her thoughts, Su Bei removed her oversized shirt and wore the dress. She tied her hair into a ponytail, put some slight blush and a lip tint toplete the look.

    She then got her white sandals from the side and wore them. She then went out of her room to go to Leng Shao, who''s waiting for her.

    The moment Su Bei arrived below, Leng Shao immediately stood up, his knee bumping on the coffee table in front of him.

    "S-Su Bei," he called out her name, "Are you ready? C-can I ask you to talk at a caf¨¦, please?"

    Su Bei blinked her eyes a few times. It was her first time seeing Leng Shao so uneasypared to when she first was with him. He is a confident man, and now that he had stammered on his words, it was something surprising to her.

    It made Su Bei think that this man before her was sincere in his intentions and that he is motivated to convince her that he is innocent.

    "Okay," was all Su Bei could say, a glimmer of hope appearing on Leng Shao''s face.

    "Thank you, Su Bei. Let''s go then," he said, Su Bei already walking out of the house as Leng Shao followed her behind.

    The moment the two were out of the house, Leng Shao quickly walked to the passenger''s seat to open the door for her. Su Bei discreetly looked at him as she sat inside, already putting her seatbelt on as Leng Shao sat on the driver''s seat.

    Leng Shao then started the car and the drive going to the caf¨¦ was silent. Su Bei looked out the car window as she watched the scene outside, Leng Shao, stealing nces of her from the corner of his eye.

    ''How am I going to convince Su Bei to believe me?'' Leng Shao started to wonder to himself as he continued driving. ''I haven''t found any evidence yet. Will my words be enough to convince her?''

    Leng Shao''s hands on the wheel tightened. Su Bei, who was observant, noticed this when she stole a nce of the man beside her.

    Her heart started to race. She instinctively held on to her chest, pretending to hold the seatbelt as she felt her heart thumping hard in her chest.

    ''Should I believe him?'' Even Su Bei began to wonder to herself. ''If he keeps saying that it wasn''t him, was he telling the truth? He doesn''t have any evidence yet, but why do I find myself wanting to believe him even though it''s difficult?''

    Su Bei heaved a small sigh. With Leng Shao hearing this from her, his eyebrows slightly furrowed as he now started to fear if Su Bei would believe him or not.

    The caf¨¦ was on the outskirts of the city, near the beach. It was secluded, and only a few people were present, making it a perfect area to talk or have a date.

    However, going here to have a date wasn''t Leng Shao''s intention. He would only want to prove his innocence to Su Bei through his words, and he would only have to cross his fingers to hope that it would work.

    Leng Shao parked the car near the caf¨¦. Afterward, the two went out of the vehicle to enter the caf¨¦. Leng Shao opened the door for Su Bei. The moment the two entered, they chose a location at the veranda, overlooking the sea.

    As the two sat down, Leng Shao did not want to dy their talk further. He ordered the caf¨¦''s best-seller so they could immediately start talking than choosing for their order.

    When the waitress left, Leng Shao looked at Su Bei with shy eyes as Su Bei averted his gaze away from him, looking at the sea as if to distract herself.

    "Su Bei," Leng Shao called out to her, "I don''t know how to say this, and I don''t know how to convince you, but I can''t help it any longer."

    Su Bei could feel different surges of emotions from Leng Shao''s words. There was desperation, there was sadness, and at the same time, there was gentleness.

    Because of the tone of his voice, Su Bei could no longer help but to look at him even though she wanted to ignore him.

    The moment their eyes met, Leng Shao''s eyebrows furrowed as his hands on hisp tightened, nervous.

    "I want to tell you so much that it wasn''t me in the video. I''m telling you the truth, it wasn''t me."

    Su Bei sighed. She slightly shook her head, speaking as if almost in a whisper.

    "But how could I believe you? Leng Shao, the video looked so real. That could not be done with photoshop or even with advanced applications."

    "Su Bei..." Leng Shao''s eyes started to water as he heard her words, his heart starting to ache. "But believe me. I''m wronged--I and Yan Mei are wronged. That''s not us."

    "Oh?" Su Bei crossed her arms in front of her chest, "Do you have any proof?"

    "No..."

    It was silent for a few seconds. It was like quietness was suspended on air, waiting for one signal to continue moving.

    Leng Shao gulped, his eyes not leaving Su Bei''s. He then felt some tears from his eyes escaping, Su Bei''s eyes widening as she did not expect to see the pained expression on his face.

    "Su Bei... I don''t know who''s the one doing this, and I don''t know his intention, but whatever it is, I''m not involved in it. If I were, how could I have the slightest dignity to face you?"

    "Leng Shao..."

    Su Bei started to feel guilty. She felt that she should start listening to him now because with Leng Shao having different surges of emotions in front of her, he could be saying the truth.

    "This might be rted to the issue with Yan Mei''s ex-husbandst year, but believe me--we never did that." Leng Shao forced himself not to cry, "How could I be here if it was true, Su Bei? You think I would have the disrespect?"

    Su Bei didn''t know what to say. There was another lingering silence as the two heard the distant waves of the sea in the background.

    By this time, Leng Shao could no longer control his tears, averting his gaze from Su Bei as he felt embarrassed about being vulnerable in front of her.

    With her feelings, heart, and mind wavering as of this moment, Su Bei reached out to his other hand that was on the table, getting his attention as she spoke.

    "Why are you acting this way, Leng Shao? Why are you so emotional?"

    Leng Shao looked at Su Bei, his eyes piercing through her heart, pulling her heartstrings as he spoke--the words he said reverberating in her heart and mind.

    "Because I''m scared to lose you, Su Bei. I''m scared that because of this misunderstanding--that because of being used of something that I did not do, I would lose you."

    "Leng Shao--"

    Leng Shao inteced his fingers with Su Bei, surprising her with the action that he had done.

    "I only met you recently, but your very presence made an impact on my life. I thought I would not be interested in other women but meeting you, I was proven wrong."

    Su Bei could not leave her eyes from the man before him. He continued to speak, his very words starting to convince her as his actions of meeting herplimented with it.

    "I can''t risk to lose you because of this, Su Bei. How could I let this pass? I promise you that I would do my best to get to the bottom of this. Give me time--give me time to find out everything and to prove myself. I promise you that it is not me."

    Su Bei felt her eyes water. She felt a lump on her throat as she forced herself to keep her tears at bay, not wanting to cry in front of Leng Shao.

    "Believe me... my words are true. If it weren''t, I won''t have the face to meet you. I would be such an asshole if I did."

    Su Bei did not know what to say. She nodded, a small smile appearing on her face. She then got a tissue from the table, wiped his tears as Leng Shao stared straight at her eyes.

    "Okay, Leng Shao," she said, "You got me now. I''ll listen to you and will wait, okay?"

    Hearing her words made Leng Shao release his tears more. Seeing this, Su Bei could not help but feel more guilty as she now felt the sincerity in the man''s words and actions.

    "Thank you, Su Bei... thank you so much for giving me this chance. I won''t let you down."

 Chapter 252 Gu Zhi

    <h4>Chapter 252 Gu Zhi</h4>

    In arge mansion at the outskirts of city S. A man was sitting in a couch in the living room. He was wearing a dark blue suit with a ss of wine in his right hand.

    He twirled the wine ss as an evil smirk graced his beautiful lips.

    The new young maid who was sent to bring him cigar couldn''t help but feel petrified. She has heard stories about her new boss from the other workers and she couldn''t help but be scared of him.

    He is the devil people say, she didn''t believe it at first until she saw him gouging out her man''s eyes with his bare hands.

    She swallowed as his intense eyes stared at her as if she was a prey. The maid couldn''t help gulp and pause in her steps. His presence was too powerful for a lowly maid like her.

    "Are you scared of me?" He asked, his voice making her blood run cold.

    ''Should I say yes or I should lie?''

    The question swirled in her mind with her head bowed down.

    "I asked you a question." He stated calmly.

    The maid look at him with fearced in her eyes.

    The maid couldn''t help but feel intimidated by how intense his gaze was. She suddenly became conscious of her look. She knew she looked horrible now.

    While he looked so perfect, how can someone look so perfect? Feeling nervous by his intense stare, the maid looked down at the down.

    "Look a wee t me." He said with his voice radiating power. Now she finally knew why they called him the devil.

    Taking a deep breath she slowly looked up at him. Her eyes met his and she found herself not able to look away. There was something about his eyes that scared her. It''s like he could see right through her soul.

    No wonder he was the devil, his gaze alone can make a man get a cardiac arrest.

    "What''s your name?"

    ''Where is he asking my name?''

    "Yu¡ªXi"

    She breathed out. The man nodded.

    "Little Yu are you afraid of me?"

    The man asked as he tapped his fingers on the hand of the couch.

    "Y-yes."

    The man smirked and took a sip of his wine.

    "Hmm...you should."

    Little Yu swallowed at his words.

    "Do you y chess?" The man suddenly asked surprising Amy.

    Amy gave him a puzzled look. Did he just¡ª

    "Chess?" She breathed out barely audible.

    The man crooked his eyebrows at her without saying anything. The silence was was driving Yun Xi crazy.

    She took a step back in fear as the man stood up and started walking towards her.

    She froze at her ce when she saw the warning look in the mans eyes. As if he was taunting her to try and make a move.

    It felt like forever until he was so close that she could feel his breath on her face.

    "Can you y little kitty?" Yun Xi frowned when she heard the endearment but she knew better than to argue with the devil.

    She nodded hesitantly as she vowed in fear. The man smirked and nodded in satisfaction.

    "Good." He said and took a step back with his signature evil smirk on his face.

    Before she can react, the man went back to his seat and sat down.

    "Come"

    Yun Xi looked at the table infront of him with a chessboard on it and found herself walking towards him.

    "Sit down." He ordered and made her sit facing him. Even though Yun Xi didn''t want to sit down her body failed her.

    The white chess piece faced her while the ck ones faced the man.

    Yun Xi looked at the man confused. Did he really want to y chess with her?

    "Ladies first." He said as she looked at him. Yun Xi looked at the board and took a deep breath. She knew she was good at ying chess but she didn''t know how good the opponent is.

    Yun Xi looked at the board and began to focus. She didn''t know his strategies or tricks so she had to y it safe.

    She moved one piece and the man smirked as the game began.

    They yed one game of chess and it turned out he was a master at the game. At the end of the day, she lost. Even though she fought a tough match.

    Yun Xi had to admit she enjoyed the game even though her heart was racing the entire time. Neither of them talked while they were ying. The aura released by him showed how much skilled he was in the game of chess.

    "Look at me." He ordered her with his voice filled with power.

    "Gu Zhi."

    Yun Xi frowned when she heard him pronounced a name.

    Seeing the confusion on her face, the man chuckled.

    "My name, Gu Zhi."

    His eyes met hers and she couldn''t help but blush.

    "You can go now." Hemanded sending shivers along Yun Xi''s spine.

    Without saying anything she bolted out of the room.

    The moment she left a man entered the room and bowed slightly at Gu Zhi.

    "Boss!" The man greeted respectfully.

    "We have found Miss Feng and her husband."

    Gu Zhi raised his brows when he heard his secretary.

    "Oh? Where is little kitty hiding?" The man asked as he took the cigar Yun Xi brought.

    "There are currently on an ind Far East."

    The man chuckled sinisterly as he stood up. He walked towards the window and stared at the green forest surrounding them.

    "Feng Mei, do you think you can hide from me?" The man mumbled and gulp down his wine.

    "Do you want me to¡ª"

    "No. Allow her to enjoy this few days of happiness. After all I can''t be that cruel."

    A/N: Sorry guys but I can''t do it anymore. I have been breaking down a lot these days so I have decided to take a break. Not a long break I just need to pull myself together then I will be back. Please wait for me?

    Sorry for disappointing you guys.

 Chapter 253 Gu Ren

    <h4>Chapter 253 Gu Ren</h4>

    ~shback~

    The woman''s hair was disheveled. The expression in her eyes was nkpared to the smile she had on her face.

    The woman was smiling. However, her smile bore no joy. It was fake--empty, devoid of any emotion like she was forcing herself to be happy herself.

    She held two dolls. The male doll was on her left hand and a female doll on her right. The female toy specifically looked like her, and the male looked like a CEO of onepany.

    The dolls in her hands wore wedding clothes as the woman yed with them as if she was a child ying Barbie dolls for the first time.

    "Don''t you love me, Wang Lu?"

    The girl voiced out as if the female doll was talking. The woman then moved the male toy, her voice deep as she acted speaking like him.

    "Yes, Gu Ren," the woman''s voice was deep, "I love you. That''s why I asked you to marry me."

    The woman, Gu Ren, giggled as she continued ying alone as if she was a child. She put the dolls together and made smooching sounds, her brother watching her from afar.

    He leaned on the doorframe, his arms crossing in front of his chest as his eyes reflected worry, seeing his sister Gu Ren acting this way.

    Gu Zhi knew that his sister was smitten with Wang Lu.

    He did not know that immense love towards someone could make someone insane. He thought that it only happened in books and movies.

    Gu Zhiughed about these concepts when he reads books or watches movies. But now that it happened to her sister, it made Gu Zhi''s heart sink like it was Titanic sinking to the bottom of the ocean.

    His eyes then showed a glint of malice. His gaze didn''t leave his sister''s back as he could not help but feel angry with how Wang Lu had affected his sister this much.

    Gu Zhi loved his sister dearly. He was the most precious family member because Gu Ren saw him as her greatest brother in the world.

    Gu Zhi always felt overprotective of her sister. Once he sensed that Gu Ren is in difort, he would always go to such lengths just for Gu Zhi to cheer her sister.

    If he knew that Gu Ren was also in trouble, Gu Zhi would always be there to the rescue. He would not even care who the person he was dealing with when ites to her sister. If the person dared hurt her, he would always do something about it.

    "Wang Lu, do you want to live the rest of your life with me?" Gu Ren''s voice sounded in the room, snapping Gu Zhi out of his thoughts.

    Gu Zhi''s eyebrows twitched, seeing his sister act this way. Every time she mentioned Wang Lu''s name, being all lovey-dovey, his hatred towards him always grew.

    "Of course, Gu Ren," her voice was low, "I would like to spend the rest of my life with you, and I would also like you to bear my children."

    Gu Zhi could no longer help it. He stomped inside of the room, surprising Gu Ren as he got the dolls from her, breaking the Wang Lu doll in two pieces as he removed the torso and threw it at the side.

    "You will not spend the rest of your day with him!"

    "Gu Zhi!"

    Gu Ren instantly stood up from the floor, giving a hard p on Gu Zhi''s cheek. His face went red, his body stiffening to have not expected Gu Ren to hit him out of anger.

    She had never done this to him. Ever.

    Tears started escaping from Gu Ren''s eyes. Her voice was shaking as she bent down, getting the parts of the Wang Lu doll. She was desperate to connect the pieces, her hands trembling as well.

    "Wang Lu... n-no, Wang Lu..."

    Gu Ren cried uncontrobly like a child. Her head was shaking as she repeatedly connected them as if wanting them toe back in one piece like magic.

    Seeing this, Wang Lu gritted his teeth, his eyebrows furrowing as his hands tightened into tight fists.

    "Gu Ren. The Wang Lu doll is not him. You don''t have to--"

    "How could you say that it is not him!?"

    Gu Ren interrupted him, standing up once more as she faced her older brother head-on, her hatred reflected in her eyes.

    "Wang Lu, this is Wang Lu!" Gu Ren raised the doll, "And he asked me to marry him! He asked me to spend the rest of my days with him as his wife!"

    Gu Zhi showed worry on his face. He could no longer help but cry for his little sister. He embraced Gu Ren, pulling her in his arms.

    "Gu Ren, how many times must I tell you that this is not real?"

    "No, no! How could you say that?!" Gu Ren wailed, both of her hands hitting her older brother''s chest. "Wang Lu is mine, and he is mine forever!"

    Gu Zhi knew that his sister needed help. He knew that he would have to let someone watch over her. Gu Zhi knew that he would have to be with Gu Ren to get checked to have all the help she needed.

    However, deep down, Gu Zhi could not bring himself to believe that his sister had sumbed to insanity. He still felt that she was still sane despite the actions that she has been showing him.

    "Gu Ren," Gu Zhi called out her name, sweetly as he could. "What do you want me to do, hmm? I want you to feel better. I don''t want you to be this way."

    With Gu Ren feeling her brother caressing her back and hair, she allowed herself to be vulnerable in his arms. She rubbed her face in his chest, not caring that she is making her brother''s shirt wet.

    "I want you to beat up those viins in my life. I want you to beat those people who are getting in the way of me being with Wang Lu."

    Her muffled voice was still audible, making Gu Zhi understand each word that she said. He silenced as his lips turned into a tight line, continuing to listen to the woes of her sister.

    "The viins of my love story... I want you to drive them away. Why should I be the only one suffering? Why does Feng Mei deserve him? Why can''t I deserve him?"

    Gu Zhi did not know what to say. His hold around his younger sister tightened, his eyes slowly showing hatred as he never saw his sister act this way.

    "Gu Zhi, big brother... you''re going to beat them up for me, won''t you? You would do anything in your power to make your little sister Gu Ren happy, wouldn''t you?"

    Gu Zhi nodded in agreement as if he had no choice but to say yes so he could make his sister happy. With Gu Ren''s words, he knew that she was getting insane by the second.

    Her love for Wang Lu deepened right before his eyes even though Wang Lu was not around.

    How can the human mind and the human heart be capable of such a thing? Is there any way to stop this? Is there any way to make her sister go back to normal?

    However, even with these thoughts in mind, he would go to such lengths--no matter what it takes, just for him to satisfy his little sister.

    "What do you want me to do, specifically?" Gu Zhi asked as Gu Ren raised her head to look at him.

    Gu Zhi''s eyes widened to have seen another expression on Gu Ren''s face. It was an expression that he had never seen before on her gentle, beautiful face.

    It was a sinister look. Gu Ren''s eyes were devoid of emotion--her smile, nk and fake as ever even though her lips were curling up.

    She then raised her hand, touching her big brother''s cheek she pped minutes ago.

    She rubbed his cheek with her thumb, soothing the pain that Gu Zhi felt as she spoke, her words sending chills down her brother''s spine.

    "Promise me that no matter what, Feng Mei won''t escape your grasp. Promise me that no matter what, Feng Mei and Wang Lu would have to separate. If you have managed to do that, brother, then I will surely be happy."

    Gu Zhi slowly nodded. It was then that he realized that her sister was no longer in the right mind and that she was slowly bing into a person that was not her in the beginning.

    Her sweet and demure personality quickly faded away, all because of the insanity she felt while she loved Gu Zhi.

    Gu Zhi knew that his sister was long gone. However, it did not waver his decisions.

    He promised right here and then that he would do everything in his power, even though it is wrong, so he could make his sister happy.

    A/N: Hy this is MysticAmy. Will be writing until Big Sis is doing okay! Because she is participating in win win and WN has promised coins giveaway as Xmas to privilege buyers she felt bad to not update since she wanted to give back to those supporting her. Also please while reading check out my book THE SOUL EATER''S POSSESSION. Thank you!

 Chapter 254 Shadow

    <h4>Chapter 254 Shadow</h4>

    Lei Zhao walked back and forth in the room. Lei Zhao and Yan Mei were already out of the city. They did so immediately so they could escape from the hellhole that has happened.

    It was a good thing that Lei Xiao Tong suggested to go on a honeymoon out of the city. It was for both of them--especially Yan Mei to keep her mind out of the issue that had happened.

    Yan Mei was sleeping in their room, Lei Zhao, out in the living room to wait for news that he was expecting from his secretary, Ye Xing.

    Even though both of them were already out of the city, Lei Zhao could not help but feel uneasy. With what was already happening in their lives, it was as if the incident was a water ripple.

    It had affected everyone involved, bothering the others who have witnessed it as well.

    Lei Zhao was still pacing in the lobby. He could no longer take it as he got his phone from his pocket, already dialing his secretary, Ye Xing, for the update.

    Lei Zhao put his phone against his ears. He was looking out the window, the night quiet, and the stars in the sky still. The phone was still ringing as it attempted to connect, Ye Xing finally epting the call at the third ring.

    "Mr. Lei," he said from the other end of the call, "Do you need something that you need me to bring?"

    Even though Ye Xing wasn''t with him, Lei Zhao shook his head, heaving a small sigh as he continued looking out the window.

    "The issue I told you to investigate on. How is it going?"

    "This..."

    There was hesitation in Ye Xing''s voice. Even Lei Zhao, who trusted him in his work, felt the doubt in his tone.

    He always knew that Ye Xing is a confident man with what he is doing with his work. He always promised quality and fast results, but with him hesitating this way now, it seemed that even The Amazing Ye Xing could get stuck in his work.

    "Mr. Lei, I''m sorry," Ye Xing apologized, "But I would have to ask for more time."

    Lei Zhao internally sighed. He did not want to pressure his employee, so he just nodded, ending the call with hisst sentence.

    "Alright then, Ye Xing. Just continue to investigate and continue what you can do at the moment."

    With that, Lei Zhao ended the call feeling slightly frustrated. He slightly threw his phone on the couch across him, his hand running through his hair as he felt desperate to look for answers.

    ''Who is this man?'' he thought, ''How could he do such a thing to Yan Mei? What are his intentions, and what does he benefit from it?''

    Lei Zhao''s body stiffened. Suddenly, at that same moment, he felt so weary of his surroundings. Lei Zhao felt that someone was watching him, making him study his surroundings.

    Feeling his protective senses kicking in, he remembered Yan Mei, who was alone in the room. He slowly walked towards the door, his sights not leaving the curtains where he felt the presence of someone he doesn''t know.

    "Who''s there?"

    Lei Zhao called out, his eyes still on the curtains. At the same time, a mysterious man appeared. He was wearing a ck suit, and he had an enigmatic aura that paired perfectly with his pulchritude.

    He stared straight at Lei Zhao''s eyes, Lei Zhao feeling uneasy as he looked at him, ufortable with his presence.

    ''He seems familiar,'' Lei Zhao thought, ''Who is this man, and why is he here? How did hee here?''

    Snapping himself from his thoughts, his hand started reaching out to the phone near the bedroom door.

    "Leave now if you don''t want me to call the--"

    "Lei Zhao," the mysterious man called out, interrupting him. "My name is Shadow, and I have something important to give you."

    Shadow, the mysterious man who just appeared in the room, extended his hand towards him. Lei Zhao raised a brow at him, watching Shadow''s every move.

    Shadow still had his arm extended. On his hand was a ck pen drive, Lei Zhao''s eyebrow twitching as itpletely piqued his interest.

    "This is?"

    Shadow walked over to the coffee table where Lei Zhao''sptop was. He put the pen drive down, his gaze not leaving Lei Zhao as he spoke.

    "It may contain the answers that you were looking for," he said, Lei Zhao immediately looking at the pen drive that was on the coffee table.

    Lei Zhao briskly walked towards the coffee table, sitting on the couch where he threw his phone moments ago. He quickly opened theptop, Shadow standing behind him as he watched Lei Zhao''s every move.

    "Do you know what is happening?" Lei Zhao asked, Shadow still keeping his silence. "With you here and giving me this... could this have something to do with Yan Mei?"

    Shadow still had not said a single word. Lei Zhao busied himself--entering his password. Once the screen loaded, he inserted the pen drive, his foot tapping as he impatiently waited for the content to pop up.

    Lei Zhao felt nervous for a reason. He held the Bluetooth mouse of hisptop, his cursor slowly pointing to the content of the pen drive.

    It was the only content of the pen drive. Somehow, this very thought made Lei Zhao nervous--wondering what he could see once he opens it.

    The file name was "unknown.mp4", and because of that file name, Lei Zhao could sense that the content could be rted to Yan Mei''s case.

    Lei Zhao''s heart started beating fast. He then clicked on the video twice, the content ying in VLC. The moment the video started ying, Lei Zhao could not avert his eyes from the screen, his eyebrows furrowing as he observed who the people are in the video.

    The video showed a woman who seemed to be in her 40s. She was sitting at a caf¨¦ as if she was waiting for someone. Lei Zhao''s eyebrows furrowed when he saw a young woman sit in front of her, the two starting the conversation.

    "Have you finally thought about my offer?" the woman asked, the young woman looking straight at her.

    Lei Zhao''s ears twitched, ''Offer? What offers are they talking about?''

    The young woman did not say a word. The quality of the video was so clear--that even their words could be heard even though it was a shot taken from a CCTV camera.

    "I know you are scared," the older woman said, holding the hand of the younger girl in front of her. "But remember that we are doing this because we want what''s best for her."

    Lei Zhao cocked his head to the side, his consternation evident on his face.

    "What''s best for her? Are they talking about Yan Mei?"

    Lei Zhao continued watching the video. The younger woman now then slowly nodded, the other woman sessfully convincing her to do whatever she wanted her to do.

    "Trust me," the older woman said, giving the younger one a small smile. "She would thank youter if she finds out that what you did was only for her."

    The video then went ck, indicating that it was already the end of it. Lei Zhao''s eyes widened in surprise, his heart in his chest, beating erratically fast.

    He had a strong gut-feeling that this video might have something to do with Yan Mei--no... the video really has something to do with Yan Mei, giving them possible leads as to who are the other people involved in their attempt to pull Yan Mei into shambles.

    Lei Zhao felt determination spark from within him. He started watching the video again, making sure that he could see more clues that he could use.

    There was none--however, he could still use this video to good use.

    Lei Zhao then removed the pen drive from hisptop. He then proceeded to call his secretary Ye Xing again, getting his phone at the side.

    "Mr. Lei?" Ye Xing called out from the other side of the phone one more.

    "I want you toe here right this moment," Lei Zhao ordered him, "I want you to take a look at the video in this pen drive I have now. It could help us find leads to what we are investigating now," he added, surprise evident in Ye Xing''s voice as he replied.

    "R-right away, Mr. Lei!"

    With that, Lei Zhao made sure that he created another copy of the video in hisptop just in case. Remembering that the pen drive was given to him, he stood up to talk to him.

    "Shadow, this video... where did you--huh?"

    But the moment Lei Zhao stood up and turned his back, the mysterious man named Shadow was no longer around. Lei Zhao blinked his eyes a few times, looking at his surroundings again to see if he was around.

    "Where did he go?" Lei Zhao mumbled to himself in disbelief, "Was I too focused that I did not even notice that he left?"

    Shadow''s appearance in his room was a mystery. The man giving him the pen drive was a mystery. And now, even his disappearance was a mystery...

 Chapter 255 Five years ago

    <h4>Chapter 255 Five years ago</h4>

    Lei Zhao still could not believe that the mysterious man named Shadow suddenly appeared in their room. He blinked his eyes a few times when he realized that he had been long gone, but how?

    With that in mind, Lei Zhao shook his head out of his thoughts. Now that the video showed more clues, he thought that he should to the people who are involved.

    Lei Zhao yed the video again. When he saw the woman one more time, he paused it, narrowing his eyes as he started to observe who the woman was.

    "This woman... she''s familiar," Lei Zhao mumbled, continuing to y the video again for a clear view of her face. The moment a part of the video clearly showed her face, he immediately hit pause, his eyes widening to realize who it was.

    Lei Zhao knew that he knew who this woman is. He knew that he met this woman once. Even though it was only one time, Lei Zhao''s memory did not fail him.

    This woman--this is Leng Shao''s mother.

    Lei Zhao heaved a sigh as he rested his back on the couch. He started to connect the pieces, remembering what the conversation was in the video.

    They were talking about a deal--an offer. But what? What could that deal be?

    Now Lei Zhao could not help but feel uneasy. He got his phone again and called Ye Xing one more time, even though he had ordered him toe to the ind as much as possible.

    "Ye Xing, tell me what you have investigated so far."

    In Ye Xing''s background, Lei Zhao could hear the engines roaring as if he was in a quick drive. With Ye Xing wearing a high-end Bluetooth earphone in one ear, he can listen to Lei Zhao clearly and could still answer him with what he knows.

    "This may be rted to an issue that had happened five years ago," Ye Xing directly said, getting theplete attention of his boss.

    "What else do you know?" Lei Zhao asked, Ye Xing, answering with what he could as he continued driving.

    "This video is somehow connected to Yan Mei''s best friend."

    "Best friend?"

    When Lei Zhao heard this, it immediately piqued his interest. He then stood up, his phone still against his ear as he walked about in the room, conversing with his secretary.

    "Once I arrive on the ind, Mr. Lei, I would like you to confirm what I have investigated."

    "En," Lei Zhao answered, nodding at the same time. "I have a video here which I would like you to investigate. What you know might be connected to this video."

    "Okay. I''ll be there as much as possible."

    With that, the call between Lei Zhao and his secretary, Ye Xing, ended. He then kept his phone in his pocket when suddenly, he heard a familiar voice calling out to him, getting his attention.

    "Lei Zhao?"

    There was still sleepiness in her voice. A small smile crept on Lei Zhao''s face as he walked into the room where Yan Mei is sleeping. The moment Lei Zhao entered, he saw the grogginess on her face.

    She was embracing the spare pillow, her sleepy eyes looking at Lei Zhao as the strap of her nightgown slithered down her shoulder, enticing Lei Zhao toe to her.

    "Wifey..."

    Lei Zhao sat on his bedside, Yan Mei looking up at him, sleepiness still seen in her eyes.

    "What were you doing outside? Aren''t you going to sleep with me? Hmm?"

    Lei Zhao almost forgot that the reason why there were here in the first ce was that they were escaping from the hellhole of City S. However, he also knew at the same time that even though they are away from the city, he could not only sit still and let this pass by.

    He also has to do what he can other than his mother, Lei Xiao Tong, helping them.

    "I''m sorry," Lei Zhao apologized, tucking some tendrils of Yan Mei''s hair behind her ear. "I was handling some matters of thepany that I have to deal with myself," he reasoned, a white lie to not make his wife worry.

    "Oh..." Yan Mei slightly pouted, looking like a child. "We came here for a honeymoon... why are you suddenly being busy now?"

    A light chuckle sounded from Lei Zhao. He nted a kiss on Yan Mei''s forehead, tucking her in with their nket as if she was a child.

    "I''m sorry. I promise I''ll deal with this quickly so I could sleep beside you, alright?"

    Yan Mei narrowed her eyes at him, "Are you keeping something from me?" she asked Lei Zhao, her husband shaking his head as he tried his best to convince Yan Mei to believe him even though he is lying.

    He only wanted to protect her and not worry her since she is also facing her internal struggles.

    "I''m not," Lei Zhao tly said, giving Yan Mei another kiss, this time on the lips. "Now rest. I would take a shower and make final calls so my attention would be yours only."

    "Oh..." Yan Mei yawned, no longer masking how tired she was from the trip that they had. "Alright, then. If you need help or whatever, don''t hesitate to," another yawn came from her once more, "wake me up..."

    In an instant, Yan Mei fell into slumber. Lei Zhao smiled as he kissed her on the top of her head, then he proceeded to shower as he waited for his secretary Ye Xing to arrive.

    ***

    Ye Xing used Lei Zhao''s private helicopter after driving to the helipad. In just one and a half hours, he arrived on the ind, already informing Lei Zhao that he is already on his way to meet him.

    "Mr. Lei," Ye Xing said, checking his watch to look at the time. It was already 10 in the evening. "Shall Ie to the ind vi, or should I wait for you outside?"

    Upon hearing that Lei Zhao expected him in the vi, Ye Xing unconsciously nodded.

    "I''ll be right there, Mr. Lei."

    Ye Xing ended the call and had quickly made his way to the ind''s vi. The moment he knocked on the door, Lei Zhao immediately opened the door, inviting his secretary inside.

    "Thank you foring as soon as you can," Lei Zhao said, his secretary giving him a small bow as a greeting.

    The two men made way to the vi''s veranda, with the pen drive and theptop on hand. Ye Xing then put the folder on the table. It contained the little information he found out during his investigation.

    "I want you to watch this video," Lei Zhao said, opening hisptop and immediately ying the video in the pen drive.

    The two focused on the video once more. The moment the video showed the two women, Ye Xing''s eyes widened in shock when he saw the younger woman.

    "M-Mr. Lei Zhao," he called out his attention, his shock making his boss pause the video.

    "What''s wrong?" Lei Zhao asked, Ye Xing already opening the folder to reveal a picture of the young woman in the video.

    "This woman--she is the same as the one in the video," he said, Lei Zhao,paring the two. His eyes also widened when he saw the resemnce, the two looking at each other in consternation and, at the same time, amazement.

    "So this was what you investigated so far?" Lei Zhao asked, Ye Xing, nodding to answer his question.

    "I found out that this woman in the picture is Mrs. Lei''s best friend. Now that I saw this video, I could say that the woman in this picture is the same and that she is involved in this."

    Lei Zhao was silent for a while. He leaned on the table, his hand on his chin as he started to ponder what he will do next.

    "To get to the bottom of this, we should talk to the people involved," he mumbled, but it was enough for Ye Xing to understand.

    "What should we do next, Mr. Lei?" he asked, feeling motivated to connect the pieces now that they have more clues.

    Lei Zhao was silent for a while. He heaved a small smile as he looked at the night sky above them, thinking of what to do next.

    If Shadow did not give him the pen drive, they might not get enough evidence for the issue at hand. Now that they have--even though this is the slightest clue, it was enough for them to continue the investigation.

    It was also that at this moment, that Lei Zhao realized that they should talk to the people involved to get the information that they needed.

    "I want you to arrange an appointment with Wang Lu. Make hime to this ind in secret, and make sure to do something about my wife so she would not know about this."

    Even Ye Xing was surprised to hear this. He somehow knew that Wang Lu was Yan Mei''s ex-husband--why would he want to invite him here in a honeymoon?

    But he is but a secretary--and he would have to follow the orders of his boss.

    "Understood," Ye Xing said, standing up at the same time. "I will arrange a spa day for Mrs. Lei tomorrow and would have to arrange a location where you could freely talk with Mr. Wang Lu."

    Satisfied with what he heard, Lei Zhao nodded, signaling Ye Xing for him to carry on with what they have talked about.

    ''Now we''re getting closer to understand the bottom of this,'' Lei Zhao thought, light passing through his eyes as he looked at the sky. ''I''ll finally end this and protect my wife.''

 Chapter 256 Meeting with the rival

    <h4>Chapter 256 Meeting with the rival</h4>

    "Why? You already slepttest night, and now you''re not going to have a spa day with me?"

    Yan Mei was starting to feel annoyed with what was happening already. They arrived on the ind together with the thought of enjoying the alone time they have.

    They came to this ind for their honeymoon. However, Yan Mei could not help but feel that Lei Zhao came here to work!

    Yan Mei crossed her arms in front of her chest, "How could you leave me alone and have a spa without you? Are you sure that you''re not keeping anything away from me?"

    With Yan Mei''s tone, Lei Zhao could not help but furrow his brows in worry. He heaved a small sigh, then put both of his hands on her shoulders, his thumb caressing her skin.

    "I''m sorry, but as I promised you, I will try to finish this as quick as I can so that all my time will be yours, alright?"

    Hearing this, Yan Mei pouted like a child. She even narrowed her eyes at Lei Zhao, the man chuckling as he yfully pinched the cheeks of his wife.

    "I promise you that I will be done with this, alright? I have to meet someone to finish this case. Only then will my attention be given to you with no problems and hindrances."

    Yan Mei still had her eyes narrowed at Lei Zhao. After a few seconds, she heaved a sigh, shaking her head in the process as she crossed her arms in front of her chest.

    "Fine. I will letst night and today slide, alright?" A smile then appeared on her face, remembering that she will be having a spa day alone to herself. "I''m excited about the half-day spa session. It''s been so long since I had one."

    "Yes, yes!" Lei Zhao enthusiastically nodded as he nted a kiss on top of Yan Mei''s head, "I envy you in having a spa date to yourself, but you deserve this hard work as well. I will make sure to finish earlier so I could make it up to you, alright?"

    "Okay, okay!" Now Yan Mei could not help but giggle. She nodded as she yfully rolled her eyes at her wife, already letting this slide. "Then I''ll be on my way then. I''ll enjoy it today. You better make it upter!"

    "Of course, Wifey!" Lei Zhao had a smug grin on his face, "I will make it up to you in bed as well."

    "Oh, you!" Yan Mei yfully rolled her eyes at Lei Zhao. "I''ll be off then. I''ll see youter."

    With that, Yan Mei kissed Lei Zhao on the cheek. As she left the house, Ye Xing appeared on the veranda. He secretly arrived at the vi before Yan Mei woke up to apany his boss in the meeting with Wang Lu.

    "Where did you say that Wang Lu is waiting?" Lei Zhao asked seriousness etched in his voice.

    "He''s already in the restaurant. He arrived here early in the morning with the help of the bodyguards that I sent to fetch him," Ye Xing answered, Lei Zhao, nodding in approval as he looked at himself in the mirror.

    Lei Zhao was wearing a ssic Hawaiian shirt paired with cargo shorts. Despite looking so simple, his looks are unparalleled.

    "Let''s go meet him then," Lei Zhao said, a light passing through his eyes as he wanted to get down to business for them to get to the bottom of this issue.

    ***

    In the restaurant found on the ind, Wang Lu watched over the sea as he waited for Lei Zhao toe over. He was in an area of the restaurant that was overlooking the sea.

    Wang Lu had a deadpan expression on his face. He felt the breeze kiss his skin as he watched the waves crashing on the shore, a scenic appearance before him as he somewhat appreciated the view before him.

    At first, he did not want toe. How could onee to his ex-wife''s husband''s invitation? His hands at his sides balled into tight fists as his eyes reflected malice, remembering the hatred and jealousy he felt towards Lei Zhao.

    Wang Lu hated everything about Lei Zhao. He could not help but be jealous of how Yan Mei is so happy with him. He wondered if Yan Mei was ever this happy with him. He thought if Yan Mei was better off with Lei Zhao than with him.

    With his thoughts running wild, Wang Lu could not help but be irked. Wang Lu startedparing himself to Lei Zhao. He then noticed that in terms of sess, Lei Zhao is better than him.

    Other than that, his looks were even above him. When ites to handling Yan Mei, he could not help butpare how her smile is with himpared to when she is with Lei Zhao''s.

    In conclusion, Yan Mei is happier with Lei Zhao, and that Wang Lu is almost nothingpared to Lei Zhao.

    Wang Lu gritted his teeth. He found himself stupid foring here when it was clear to Wang Lu that he hated everything about Lei Zhao.

    Yet, why did hee? Why did he stay? Why is he waiting for him now?

    Even Wang Lu could not understand it. He felt that he shoulde. He thought that he should take his invitation and see what they are going to discuss.

    Another thing, with Wang Lu knowing that Yan Mei is also here, the hope of seeing even just a glimpse of her lingered in his heart.

    Yes, he hopes to see her--even just from afar. Even though years passed already, Wang Lu could not help but miss her as he considers her the best woman that came into his life.

    Yes, the memories of the past that had happened five years ago hunted him, but still, he could not help but let his feelings linger and cling on to the love of Yan Mei.

    At the same time that Wang Lu turned his back, his whole body froze when his eyesnded on that familiar figure. It was a figure that he once loved--no--it was a figure that he still loved until today.

    That brown wavy hair that cascaded at her sides looked so perfect. Wang Lu could not help but gawk at her from afar, appreciating her beauty.

    Those eyes that reflected beauty itself, those luscious lips that looked perfect every time she smiled--yes, it''s her. It''s her, alright.

    Yan Mei--Feng Mei.

    She was his. Yan Mei was his until that unfortunate event happened right before his eyes that made him question his feelings towards her.

    Soon then, pain and hatred appeared on his face. However, his heart betrayed him. The organ in his chest was erratically beating as if he had fallen in love again.

    How could he feel so angry and, at the same time, feel so in love?

    Yan Mei was wearing a tank top and in ck dolphin shorts. Everyone''s eyes were on her as she walked going to the spa.

    Even with those eyes on her, she walked proudly--not caring as if her man was there with her to protect her even though he''s not around.

    Yan Mei carried herself out so well. Wang Lu had never seen her this way before.

    Could Lei Zhao have something to do with how Yan Mei is acting right now? Why was Yan Mei not this way when she was with him?

    ''Am I... am I useless?''

    "Stop gawking at my wife, Wang Lu."

    The expression on Wang Lu''s face suddenly changed. He instinctively turned to where the sound came from, and the moment he did, his eyes met Lei Zhao and his secretary behind him.

    Both of them red at each other. If looks could kill, then they would have started murdering each other already.

    There was an overbearing aura between the two. Even Ye Xing, who was behind his boss, Lei Zhao, felt like he couldn''t breathe with how heavy the atmosphere between them is.

    "Lei Zhao," Wang Lu coldly said his name, the eyes of the man before him not leaving him.

    "Wang Lu," Lei Zhao replied, the two still ring at each other.

    Wang Lu raised a brow at Lei Zhao as he tried his best to mask his insecurities. He discreetly cleared his throat, his gaze not leaving Lei Zhao in front of him.

    "Why were you so adamant about meing here? If it weren''t for your secretary''s persuasive skill, I wouldn''t havee."

    "Oh?" Lei Zhao scoffed a little, "Are you sure you came here because of my secretary''s skill? Or you came here because you know that my wife is here with me."

    Wang Lu''s eyebrow twitched as he felt annoyance course through his body with how Lei Zhao emphasized the word wife. His hands at the sides turned into fists again as he spoke, doing his best to control his temper.

    "You asked me toe here, didn''t you?" He gritted his teeth, "Let''s get this thing over with then so I could leave you alone."

    A smirk appeared on Lei Zhao''s face. He then walked to a nearby table, already sitting down as he looked up at Wang Lu, gesturing for him to sit down.

    "Then let''s get to the bottom of this. Quickly."

 Chapter 257 Kidnapped

    <h4>Chapter 257 Kidnapped</h4>

    "Then let''s get to the bottom of this. Quickly."

    Lei Zhao and Wang Lu red at each other. The atmosphere between them was as cold as winter. Ye Xing, Lei Zhao''s secretary, kept silent at the side as he felt nervous about their discussion.

    Lei Zhao looked at Ye Xing, snapping him out of his thoughts with what he said.

    "Have you asked someone to watch over my wife?" he asked Ye Xing, emphasizing the word "wife" on purpose.

    Ye Xing gulped, sensing the irritation in Wang Lu''s demeanor. The secretary nodded to answer his question, followed by his assurance.

    "Yes, Mr. Lei."

    "Good," Lei Zhao said, returning his gaze to Wang Lu. "Come. Sit. You want to end this immediately, right?"

    Wang Lu silently for a while. Heaving a small sigh as he tried his best to calm himself, he sat down, the two of them already facing each other.

    "Do you like anything to eat?"

    "No."

    "You came all the way here. Are you sure--"

    "Cut the crap with your hospitality. We both hate each other. You know that."

    Silence befell them one more time, Ye Xing discreetly gulping again as he listened to their conversation. Somehow, the secretary wished that he wasn''t around. But then, it is his job to listen and to take down notes that are deemed necessary.

    "Now," Wang Lu looked focused and, at the same time, annoyed, "Go directly to the point. What do you want?"

    At the same moment, the waitress came, serving them a breakfast meal. Wang Lu was in no mood to eat, and even though he rejected the offer of food, it turns out that Ye Xing already ordered food for them.

    They were eating egg fried rice, with fried fish and some sausages. Even though Wang Lu declined the offer a while ago, now that the food is in front of them, it made him realize that he was famished.

    Well, he dide here early as Ye Xing let the bodyguards pick him up. At first, Wang Lu did not want toe, but with Ye Xing''s persuasion and with the thought of Yan Mei being on the ind, he agreed.

    Lei Zhao and Wang Lu started eating their meal. It was a silent breakfast meal, but the two would be talking business soon once the mood was set right.

    However, could the mood between them be okay?

    After a few minutes, Lei Zhao put his spoon and fork down and stared at Wang Lu. The man also did the same, Lei Zhao already talking to get his attention.

    "I want to talk to you about my wife," he said, Lei Zhao, wiping the corners of his mouth with a napkin. When Wang Lu heard this, he could not help but roll his eyes at him, answering him in such a way that his annoyance was evident in his voice.

    "How could you not realize that the woman you married is not a saint that you think she is?"

    Lei Zhao''s eyebrows twitched when he heard this. He raised a brow at him as he cocked his head to the side, coldness evident in his voice.

    "What did you say about my wife?"

    "Oh, you know what I mean," Wang Lu said, sarcasticallyughing at the same time. "You saw what happened in the video. It was her, alright. How could you look at her as if she''s innocent?"

    Lei Zhao did not say a single word. He knew that Wang Lu was venting his frustrations out.

    He could not understand him. He knew that Wang Lu still loves his wife, and he knew that Wang Lu is also angry about what had happened.

    But with that, it had confirmed one thing: that Wang Lu indeed knows something that may lead them to have more clues.

    "Do you want me to confirm the authenticity of the video to you?" Wang Lu said, then scoffed, getting Lei Zhao''s attention. "The video is not fake--not photoshopped."

    "And so?" Lei Zhao cocked his head to the side as if he heard something absurd from Wang Lu. "What''s your point?"

    Wang Lu scoffed once more, not believing that Lei Zhao could not see his point. It was then at this moment that Wang Lu began to feel so frustrated. Because of that, he started telling him his frustrations--almost shouting at him.

    "Didn''t you see the video at theunch? Isn''t that enough reason for you to doubt your wife?"

    Lei Zhao stared straight into his eyes, "It was all in the past. Besides, the video could not be true."

    Wang Lu exasperatedly ran his hair through his hair. He felt that Lei Zhao was blind! He thought that Lei Zhao was stubborn not to believe him! How could Lei Zhao be this stupid to turn a blind eye at the video?

    Is his love towards Yan Mei this great?

    "Wang Lu," Lei Zhao called out to him, snapping him out of his thoughts. "Is the video the reason why you have divorced Yan Mei?"

    "You..."

    Wang Lu instantly went quiet. His question was like a bullet shot straight from a gun, silencing him as it hit a bull''s eye.

    With Wang Lu''s reaction, Lei Zhao heaved a small sigh, already knowing the answer based on the expression on his face.

    "As I thought," he mumbled, but it was enough for Wang Lu to hear. With his reply, Wang Lu sarcastically chuckled, talking again to justify what Lei Zhao had said.

    "It''s not a video that I saw," he said, Lei Zhao''s eyes on him as he drank his ss of water. "I saw it with my own eyes. I saw Feng Mei fucking my best friend before me."

    Lei Zhao was quite surprised, but he was calm enough not to show the surprise on his face. His lips turned into a tight line as Wang Lu continued to talk, exining more about what he saw.

    Lei Zhao thought that Wang Lu could be lying. But then again, with how Wang Lu is talking and with how mature he was into telling him, how could he lie about something like this?

    "There was a note that I got about Feng Mei cheating on me," he said almost in a whisper, but Lei Zhao still heard him. I didn''t believe it, of course. She''s married to me. How could I doubt her? I love her."

    Lei Zhao was still silent as he continued listening to Wang Lu. Little by little, he understood the love he felt for Yan Mei. It made Lei Zhao realize that Wang Lu is not capable of lying to him even though both of them hated each other.

    "But Feng Mei and I--we have been so distant with each other during those times, so I could not help but have a doubt in my heart. With the information given to me, I had to make sure. I want to make sure."

    "So, because of you two growing distant and with the noteing into y, you could not help but feel uneasy about what is happening?"

    Hearing Lei Zhao''s question, Wang Lu''s body froze. He then nodded slowly, answering his question as he started to continue talking.

    "Maybe I should have confronted them... but I was hurt. How could the woman I love fuck the man I trust the most? I wasn''t thinking right... the pain was so real, I felt like I wanted to die."

    Oddly, Wang Lu found himself being honest with his ex-wife''s husband. He knew how much he hated him--he knows how much he was jealous of him, but still, he expressed the woes of his heart in front of the man he hated.

    Lei Zhao could not help but sigh, "So you did not ask her anything? You assumed that it was automatically her? Because of that spur of moment, you have asked to divorce?"

    "Lei Zhao," Wang Lu''s tone was serious, "If you were in my position--seeing the woman you love fuck the man you trust the most, what would you feel?"

    Silence befell the two. It was as if they were the only ones on the ind due to the quietness and the stillness of the atmosphere.

    Lei Zhao contemted for a moment as he tried putting himself in the shoes of Wang Lu. He imagined himself--imagined Yan Mei cheating on him.

    With that, his hands on hisp turned into tight fists as his eyebrows creased in difort. Wang Lu, however, saw his reaction. He did not darement about it but with Lei Zhao understanding what he could have meant, he''d rather keep quiet.

    "Wang Lu," Lei Zhao snapped himself out of his thoughts as his care for his wife arose, shoving the cheating issue at the side. "Has Yan Mei been kidnapped, while you two were together?"

    In an instant, Wang Lu''s eyes widened in surprise. He then leaned in closer as if telling him a secret, now showing concern for the woman he still loved.

    "Why? What''s happenning? Is she having those breakdowns and attacks again?"

    Lei Zhao blinked his eyes a few times. It seems that Yan Mei indeed had been kidnapped while she was with Wang Lu and that her ex-husband knew this much.

    Lei Zhao then nodded, making Wang Lu sigh as he clicked his tongue, not understanding what is happening.

    "Wang Lu, if you know something, you have to tell me. Who is the kidnapper? I know you tried something but with the expression on your face, it turns out that he''s still out in the run."

    Wang Lu stared straight into Lei Zhao''s eyes. It was as if the hatred he showed towards him disappeared as concern for Yan Mei reflected in his eyes, forgetting that he hated the man before him.

    "Tell me what you know. Yan Mei--her life might be at risk, Wang Lu."

 Chapter 258 Finally broken

    <h4>Chapter 258 Finally broken</h4>

    ~ shback ~

    "What? Where is she?"

    Wang Lu''s voice roared in his office when he heard what his secretary had said. He immediately stood up from his office chair, making it fall to the ground.

    "She is in an abandoned warehouse¡ª"

    "We have to go there. Now!"

    Interrupting his secretary, Wang Lu immediately left the room, his secretary following behind him. They immediately went to the garage and the two of them already entered the car.

    The secretary quickly drove away as he got the directions to the warehouse memorized.

    Wang Lu was silent all throughout the drive. His hands on hisp turned into a tight fist as his lips turned into a tight line, his eyes reflecting worry and at the same time anger.

    He was worried about Feng Mei, and he was also angry at the person who did this.

    "Do you have any idea who did this?" Wang Lu asked, the secretary nodding.

    "Yes, Mr. Wang," he answered, "His name, if I am correct, is Gu Zhi. He was the one who kidnapped your wife," he added, Wang Lu''s rage flowing though his veins.

    Wang Lu''s knuckles turned white from clenching his fists too hard. He gritted his teeth¡ªan effort to remain silent. His hunched form exuded an animosity that was like acid¡ªburning, slicing, and potent.

    His face was red with suppressed rage, and when his secretary was even silent, he still snapped at him, frustrated with what was happening.

    "Hurry up at once! I need to see Feng Mei!"

    "Y-Yes, Mr. Wang."

    His secretary stepped on the elerator, following Wang Lu''s order so they could immediatelye to the warehouse where Feng Mei is.

    It had been long since Feng Mei was missing. They have been doing a lot of attempts to look for Feng Mei, but only now did they find leads to where she is.

    After a ten-minute drive, they already arrived in front of the warehouse. Stepping into the old warehouse was like stepping into a whole other world. It was like venturing onto a set of old train tracks and following them as far as it took you.

    Wang Lu and his secretary ignored the grass peeking up below them. There were a lot of rusted metal around and most of them were even broken. The building seemed to shudder in the wind and sway as the rain attacked it.

    Wang Lu and his secretary quickly assessed the area as they walked around, looking for Feng Mei. The building was empty, but for a few obsolete pieces of rusted metal, pieces that seemed perfectly at home within the building''s vine-covered walls.

    Just as it had been outside, the moment the two opened the door of the warehouse building, the inside looked like something out of a dystopian movie, the walls were rusted and useless as the other carts inside were untouched.

    Beams stretched high overhead, and rain dripped down through the cracks of the ceiling, making some parts of the building''s floor wet with puddles of water.

    Wang Lu and his secretary took further steps into the building, looking around as they left wet footprints on the floor. Wang Lu looked at his secretary, his face very serious.

    "Are you sure?" he asked, turning to face the figure of his secretary beside him. The abandoned building seemed like an old ce to do much of anything, let alone a suitable ce to keep a person away from the crowd.

    "It''s this ce, Mr. Wang Lu," his secretary said, certainty in his voice. "The coordinates led here. From the location itself, nobody hears much of anything out here," he added, taking in a few more steps to look around as his boss stood in the middle of the building, assessing the area more.

    How could the man, Gu Zhi, put Feng Mei here? Where could she possibly be, and what was his motive for him to keep her here?

    "Feng Mei!"

    Snapping himself from his wandering thoughts, Wang Lu called out to Feng Mei, his voice echoing in the vast abandoned building. Seconds passed, but still, there was no feedback. Wang Lu clicked his tongue out of frustration, but when the two of them heard a faint thud on the farther end of the building, they both looked at each other in surprise.

    "Did you hear that?" Wang Lu asked, "There was a faint thud at the farther side of the building," he mumbled, but it was enough for his secretary to hear.

    Feeling cautious, his secretary was trained as Wang Lu''s bodyguard as well. He was in a defensive stance as he got his gun from his pocket, leading the way as Wang Lu slowly followed his secretary.

    Only their footsteps were heard in the building. The moment Wang Lu''s secretary saw the bare feet of a woman, he immediately widened his eyes, quickly turning to look at Wang Lu to inform him what he saw.

    "Mr. Wang Lu¡­ there''s a woman''s body! It must be¡ª"

    "Feng Mei!"

    Immediately, Wang Lu ran to where his secretary is. His body instantly froze when he saw the woman on the floor, his lips trembling as he looked at the woman lying almost lifeless on the floor.

    She was in a fetal position. Both of her ankles and wrists were tied in with a cable tie. She was blindfolded, and her gray clothes seemed to be drenched either in her sweat, or the rain water that was around her.

    Her body seemed to be trembling due to the cold, her lips slightly parted as the cloth that blindfolded her dampened by her silent cries.

    Even in this state, Wang Lu immediately noticed who she was. It was really Feng Mei and with her in this state, who knows how long she stayed here.

    "Feng Mei," Wang Lu said her name, the woman''s body stiffening in an instant as she heard a voice after so long.

    "W-who''s there!?" Her voice was shaky and at the same time, scared. "Don''t you daree near me¡­ don''t you dare!"

    Feng Mei started crying as she gathered all the strength she had to crawl away on her sides just to run away even though she knew it was pointless.

    Seeing Feng Mei this way, Wang Lu could not help but furrow his brows in worry and in pain. There were bruises on her face and on some parts of her body. As she helplessly dragged herself away, some tears escaped from Wang Lu''s eyes as he felt his heart breaking, seeing Feng Mei this way.

    "Feng Mei¡­"

    Wang Lu approached her. The moment he held her wrist even though it was gentle, Feng Mei screamed at the top of her lungs as if she saw a ghost, or as if she was being tortured when there was nothing even happening.

    "Don''t touch me, don''t touch me, don''t touch me! Aaaah! Go away, go away!"

    Feng Mei was doing all she could to attack. Even though she had cable ties tied around her ankles and wrists, it did not stop her from moving, even making her skin bleed due to the pressure she felt as she struggled to escape from the man, not knowing that it was Wang Lu.

    "Feng Mei!" Wang Lu immediately removed her blindfold, their eyes locked with each other. "It''s me, Wang Lu. It''s¡ª"

    "Go away!" There were fearful tears escaping from Feng Mei''s eyes, "Don''t you daree near me! Don''t hurt me. Don''t you¡ª"

    "Feng Mei!"

    Wang Lu could not help but cry as well as he reached out for her, attempting to hold her. The moment Wang Lu''s hand brushed against Feng Mei''s skin, the woman shouted in pain once more, as if she was about to go insane.

    "Don''t touch me! Don''t touch me! Leave me alone! I''m sorry! I''m sorry!"

    "F-Feng Mei¡­"

    Wang Lu didn''t know what to do. Every time he tried to touch her, Feng Mei would only shout at him as if she never recognized him at all! It was as if she suddenly turned insane, Wang Lu, worrying if she could go back to the way she was.

    Even Wang Lu''s secretary was surprised to see Feng Mei in such a state. Working for Wang Lu, he knew that Feng Mei is a strong woman. Seeing her in this state, it was like it was not Feng Mei at all!

    Whatever could have happened?

    "So, do you like what you''re seeing?"

    Wang Lu and his secretary instinctively looked back to where the sound came from. The moment they did, they saw a handsome and mysterious figure standing before them, immediately piquing their interest.

    Wang Lu''s eyebrow twitched, "Who are you?"

    A sinisterugh came from the man, "None of your business. Just consider me as your worst nightmare."

    With that, the man continued walking towards them, passing by Wang Lu and his secretary as he approached Feng Mei. The moment Feng Mei''s eyesnded on the man, she immediately screamed, way louder than how she screamed at Wang Lu.

    The man knelt in front of Feng Mei, the woman desperately crawling away to escape from him. An evil smirk appeared on the man''s face as he grabbed Feng Mei by the wrist, stopping her from escaping from him. Yan Mei''s eyes widened in fear.

    "Hmm¡­ seems like I have finally broken her. Tsk, tsk¡­" The man then looked up, his eyes meeting Wang Lu''s eyes as he spoke, his words sending shivers down Wang Lu''s spine. "Seems that the little kitty can''t even recognize her dearly beloved! How painful¡­"

 Chapter 259 The saving Grace

    <h4>Chapter 259 The saving Grace</h4>

    With Wang Lu telling Lei Zhao how he saw Yan Mei in that state, Lei Zhao could not help but feel bad knowing that.

    He hated Wang Lu, yes¡­ but Lei Zhao appreciated the effort that Wang Lu did¡ªhelping her ovee that struggle so Yan Mei could be herself again.

    If Lei Zhao were to be in that position, how could he have done it?

    "I¡­ have no idea." Lei Zhao rested his back on the rest of his chair, sighing as he did not expect how bad Yan Mei''s past experience was. "She must have struggled so much. She must have¡­"

    Lei Zhao did not want to continue the sentence. But this, however, was enough for Wang Lu to understand what he meant. Wang Lu drank the ss of water at the side as he also heaved a sigh, getting Lei Zhao''s attention.

    "The man that you''re looking for. His name is Gu Zhi."

    Hearing this, Lei Zhao looked at Wang Lu, seriousness evident in his eyes.

    "Gu Zhi? Why is he attacking Yan Mei in the first ce? Do you know the reason why?"

    Wang Lu stared straight into Lei Zhao''s eyes. He was hesitant to answer him at first, but now that he''s here and remembering that Yan Mei''s life is at stake and that she may be having those attacks again, he knew he had to tell Lei Zhao.

    Wang Lu wanted so hard to protect Yan Mei in every way he could. But he''s no longer her husband. Lei Zhao is her husband now and he has better and quicker ways to protect her than Wang Lu could ever do.

    Wang Lu hated that fact, but he knew that.

    In order to protect Yan Mei, the woman he loves in the arms of another man, he would have to tell what he knows.

    "I started investigating him since I saw him at the warehouse. It started because of his sister."

    Lei Zhao furrowed his brows, curious.

    "Gu Zhi''s sister? What could the connection be? Why let Yan Mei suffer this much?"

    Wang Lu let out another sigh. He finished drinking his water before he could even finish the breakfast meal on their table. He then started narrating how he met Gu Zhi''s sister, Gu Ren, and how Yan Mei could possibly be rted to Yan Mei''s torture.

    ~ shback ~

    Gu Ren was walking at the sidewalk. She walked with no confidence as she was usually bullied for being ugly and fat.

    As she walked everywhere, she would always have her head hung low, and her steps small. She would always be afraid bumping on to someone, scared that they might attack her for bumping into them.

    As she was walking, some students wearing the same high school uniform as Gu Ren stopped her in her tracks, making Gu Ren stand still, her head hung low.

    "Wh-what do you want?" She stammered as she asked, the three boysughing as one of them grabbed Gu Ren by the hair.

    "I know you''re rich! Come here and give us money!"

    Without Gu Ren''s reply, the other guy started dragging her to a nearby alley, the two guys with him making sure to block the scene so no one would suspect a thing. Since it was already night time, Gu Ren going home, it was easier to attack her during the dark.

    "N-no!" Gu Ren started fighting back, her nails digging on the man''s arm. "I''ll give you the money you need! Let me go!"

    The boy who dragged her released her, the three boys alreadyughing out loud as Gu Ren stumbled on the ground. The other guy started getting her bag, getting all of the contents out. The moment her wallet came out, Gu Ren was teary eyed as she looked down on the ground, daring not to move or else they would hurt her.

    ''Why is it always like this? Why do they bully me so much? Is it because I''m ugly and fat? Is it because that I''m this way?''

    Tears started escaping from Gu Ren''s eyes. The boysughed as they started sharing the money to each other, checking the other contents of her bag.

    "Now that you have what you want, I can go now, right?"

    "Ha!" The other boy eximed, grabbing Gu Ren by the hair one more time, making her wince with the impact that he did. "You think we''re done doing this, huh? The fun is still starting!"

    Gu Ren''s eyes widened in fear, "N-no! Stop! I¡ª"

    The other boys started stripping her off from her jacket. Gu Ren thought that she was not going to be assaulted since she was fat and ugly, but turns out that she was wrong.

    ''Men¡­ they could be really scums if they want to!''

    "Hey!"

    The three boys instinctively stopped when they heard another man''s voice. Gu Ren raised her head and her heart started beating loud when she saw the handsome face of a man in a suit. It was quite dark in the alley, but with this mysterious man''s appearance, Gu Ren could not help but see how captivating he was despite the dim light around them.

    "Who are you, huh!?" The guy released Gu Ren''s hair, making her stumble to the ground. "Why are you¡ª"

    "If you don''t stop this, then I would certainly beat you guys up and punish you in every way I can. I have the power to do so."

    "Ha!" The other guy scoffed, the three boys already standing confidently as if to challenge the man who is alone. "Oh, yeah!? Then try us!"

    The three boys charged at him. Even though the man was alone, he could easily evade through their attacks. It was as if he had studied fending for himself for a long time, showing little effort in handling them and was always on the defensive, not bothering to go to the offensive at all!

    "Th-this!"

    Once the man saw an opening, he single handedly knocked them out to sleep with one hit behind the head, Gu Ren, blinking her eyes in surprise as she saw what had happened before her.

    She felt like she was a damsel in distress, and that finally, her prince charming hade to save her!

    Another man came from behind the mysterious man who saved her.

    "Bring these punks home to their houses and inform their parents of what happened."

    "Yes, Mr. Wang Lu."

    ''Wang Lu?''

    His name rang in Gu Ren''s head like a song in repeat. Her heart started to beat erratically as the man, Wang Lu, started approaching her. The moment he was in front of her, he knelt down, got a handkerchief, and proceeded to wipe the tears on her face.

    "You should have gone home earlier," Wang Lu said, his wordsforting the girl. "Why are you out alone?"

    "I¡­" Gu Ren blinked her eyes a few times, not knowing what to say. "Th-thank you," she just said, Wang Lu giving her a small smile as he put the handkerchief on her hand, standing up as he walked away to leave.

    "Go home. Your family must be worried about you. If I did not notice you being dragged away when I was in the car, who knows what might''ve happened to you."

    Gu Ren was still sitting on the ground, surprised and at the same time ecstatic with a handsome man rescuing her. It was at that time then that Gu Ren realized that she had fallen in love with him in an instant.

    ~ Present Time ~

    "So, it was because that you saved Gu Zhi''s sister that everything got mixed up?" Lei Zhao asked, Wang Lu, nodding to answer his question.

    Wang Lu told Lei Zhao that since then, Gu Zhi''s sister, Gu Ren, started stalking him until she confessed to him. When Gu Ren confessed to him, Wang Lu rejected her calmly.

    "I didn''t know that her love for me was so immense that she took the rejection like a big deal," Wang Lu mumbled, but it was enough for Lei Zhao to hear. "She followed me everywhere so when she confessed to me, Yan Mei was actually waiting for me at the restaurant and I pointed at her, and probably, that''s when things started to get awful."

    "Hmm, I see."

    Lei Zhao could already deduce from this point the possibilities and the connections of all this. With Gu Zhi being the one who kidnapped Yan Mei and with Gu Ren knowing who Yan Mei is because of her obsession with Wang Lu, they could deduce that Gu Zhi did this to get back at Wang Lu.

    But why? It seemed that Gu Zhi had more motives than that. Is his love towards his sister that great to make him do things that are unfathomable?

    "When I knew that Gu Zhi was the one who kidnapped Yan Mei, I was so outraged that I killed him myself.

    Hearing this, Lei Zhao was snapped out of his thoughts as he looked at Wang Lu with a surprised look on his face.

    "But if you killed him yourself, then why is he¡ª"

    "I know," Wang Lu interrupted him, "I don''t know why he is alive. I saw him dying and his lifeless body with my own eyes. I made sure that he was¡­ but why?"

    Silence befell the two, Ye Xing also dumbfounded as he listened and took notes of what they talked about during their conversation.

    It was as if that even though they had talked about this together, they reached another bottleneck¡ªwanting to look for more clues as to why the man who was supposed to be dead¡­ turned out to be alive and well.

    A/N: Hy guys so we are going to be having a challenge this month! In order to give back since you guys have been showing me lots of love I have decided to hold a challenge!

    Yes a challenge and a chance to win $30 Amazon gift card , discord nitro and a 100 coins!

    So the challenge is a race for top fan and top voter from 1st -31st January

    The number one top fan will get $30 Amazon gift card, discord nitro, shoutout too and 100 coins plus a special privilege concerning the book.

    2nd ce will get $20 Amazon gift card and 100 coins

    3rd ce will get $10 Amazon gift card and 100 coins

    1st ce top voter will get 100 coins and discord nitro

    Then the 2nd and 3rd ce top voter will also get 100 coins which is valid for 1 year!

    So keep voting,menting, review. Let the race begin!

    Love, Chichii. Happy new year!!!!!!!

 Chapter 260 Killed him

    <h4>Chapter 260 Killed him</h4>

    [WARNING: This chapter may contain disturbing content. If ufortable, you have been warned. Feel free to skip.]

    ~ shback ~

    When Wang Lu saw how the man touched Feng Mei, Wang Lu felt his blood boiling. With threerge strides, he grabbed the mysterious man by the shoulder, making him bump fall to the ground.

    "Who are you and how dare you touch my wife!?"

    Even though the mysterious fell on the floor, heughed maniacally, his head tipping up. It was as if Wang Lu said something very humorous that made himugh out loud.

    "Mr. Wang Lu," Wang Lu''s secretary called out to him, his eyes not leaving the man who was on the ground. "This is the man who had kidnapped Ma''am Feng Mei. His name is Gu Zhi."

    Hearing this, Wang Lu''s eyebrows twitched. He then removed his zer and had used it to cover Feng Mei who was cowering in fear as tears uncontrobly escaped from her eyes.

    Her body stiffened when she felt Wang Lu''s suit wrapped around her. However, she felt slightly calmer when she noticed that the man before her did not mean to hurt her.

    Wang Lu stood up, ring at Gu Zhi who now slowly stood up. Wang Lu discreetly looked at his secretary, as if asking for a signal to make a move if ever things could go wrong.

    "I apud your effort in finally looking for this area, Wang Lu," Gu Zhi said, his words chilly. "But thanks to you for taking up too much time, I was able to ''have fun'' with Feng Mei."

    "What did you do to her!?"

    Wang Lu''s voice roared, echoing in the vast abandoned warehouse where they are now. Gu Zhiughed as he shrugged, feigning ignorance as he narrated what he had done to Feng Mei.

    "Oh, nothing much," he said, sounding sarcastic at the same time. "I just told her a lot of mean words. I kept here in the dark alone, letting her soil herself. Sometimes feeding her, or drugging her from time to time."

    Every word stung only fueling the fire that burned inside of Wang Lu. Every vited phrase was like gasoline to it, his fists beginning to clench and his jaw rooted. It was like one Mentos had been added to the coke inside of him. Wang Lu exploded with anger, his body trembling in rage.

    "How could you!"

    Wang Lu grabbed Gu Zhi by the cor. He then punched him hard on the face, instantly making his nose bleed. Even though his nose bled, Gu Zhiughed as if it never affected him¡ªas if he was not hurt at all!

    His blood dripped on the ground. With Wang Lu''s secretary eyeing Gu Zhi in front of them, he had his hand on his pocket just in case he needed to fish his phone out of his pocket so he could make a call.

    Of course, Wang Lu and his secretary did not onlye here unprepared. They had called backups beforehand, making most of them wait outside of the warehouse, hidden so their target would not suspect a thing.

    Wang Lu and his secretary went inside together on purpose so they could easily assess the ce. Of course, with Feng Mei locked inside, Wang Lu would want toe with his secretary to check the location.

    However, the very thought of not finding this ce quick enough immediately made Wang Lu feel frustrated. It was as if his power was too weak for him to immediately look for the person whom he longed to look out for.

    "You asked me¡­ why I did this to your dear Feng Mei?"

    When Gu Zhi spoke, it immediately snapped him out of his thoughts. His eyes suddenly turned cold, a glint of malice passing through his eyes.

    "Why not ask yourself what you did, huh? Ask yourself what you did¡ªwhat you said, making me act this way!"

    There was anger etched in Gu Zhi''s voice. Wang Lu furrowed his brows, unsure of what Gu Zhi was talking about.

    "Mr. Wang Lu," his secretary mumbled, cautious as he still had his hand in his pocket. Wang Lu discreetly shook his head, signaling his secretary not to do anything just yet.

    "What I did?" Wang Lu dared ask Gu Zhi the question, making himugh at the same time as if Wang Lu had said something stupid. "What on earth are you talking about?"

    "Ha!" Gu Zhi scoffed, "How could you act as if nothing happened!?"

    Wang Lu furrowed his brows, confused of what was happening. Gu Zhi now was fuming mad, his face red, his blood still dripping from his nose.

    "Because of you, my sister changed! She lost her sanity because of you! How could you reject a girl like her!? How could you choose that woman over my little sister!? Isn''t my little sister enough? Is it because you think that she''s unattractive?!"

    "What?" Wang Lu obviously looked confused by now. "What are you saying¡ª"

    "Gu Ren!"

    Gu Zhi shouted the name of his sister out loud, getting a photo of her from her pocket as he showed it in front of Wang Lu.

    "Don''t tell me you forgot this face! This is my sister, Gu Ren! Because she met you¡ªbecause she met you that she fell in love with you!"

    Wang Lu''s body froze. When his eyesnded on the photo in front of him, he immediately recognized that it was the girl he saved when he saw young boys bullying her.

    He also remembered how he was being stalked by Gu Ren and when he rejected her and had pointed Feng Mei who was waiting for her, that was thest time that Gu Ren also saw Wang Lu.

    Now everything made sense. With Feng Mei''s disappearance and with how Gu Zhi is venting out to him, Wang Lu could deduce that he was doing this because of Gu Ren, his sister¡ªand it was obvious how he loves her dearly.

    "Gu Zhi," Wang Lu''s voice was cold. "So it was because of this¡­ that you tortured Feng Mei?"

    "Yes!" Gu Zhi was not afraid to admit it. "My sister¡­ my sister wants to torture whoever gets in her way in between your love! I know that you won''t ever reciprocate her feelings, but with seeing her this way? How could I let this go? I want to make people pay¡ªmake people pay for torturing my sister this way!"

    Theughter evaporated from his eyes. His customary warmth gone faster than summer rain. It was pointless to try to reach him now. Wang Lu knew that even though he wanted to talk to Gu Zhi properly, it would be pointless.

    As the man before him, too, was at the brink of losing his sanity.

    "Gu Zhi," Wang Lu''s voice was cold, getting Gu Zhi''s attention. "You don''t have to do this! But since you have resorted to this, I have no choice but to stop you!"

    "Stop me?" Gu Zhi scoffed, "Stop me!? Oh, you will never stop me until I am satisfied! You will never stop me until I would get my hands on whoever woman who would get your attention!"

    "Mr. Wang Lu!" There was a warning tone in Wang Lu''s secretary. "You have to get to Ma''am Feng Mei now! He might¡ª"

    With Gu Zhi suddenly running towards Feng Mei, Wang Lu instinctively went In front of Feng Mei in an attempt to protect her.

    "Do it! Now!"

    Wang Lu''s secretary acted quickly. With the gun that he held in his hand, he urately shot Gu Zhi two times, making him stagger to the ground as blood starteding out of his wounds.

    "Argh!"

    Gu Zhi wailed in pain. He immediately fell to the ground, his blood pooling before him as his eyesight started to blur, bing weak in an instant.

    With Feng Mei witnessing this before her eyes, she went unconscious, making Wang Lu carry Feng Mei in his arms for security and protection.

    "Y-you¡­" Gu Zhi desperately gasped for air as he looked at Wang Lu''s figure carrying the woman he targeted. "I am¡­ not¡­ done yet¡­ Feng Mei¡­ she will¡­"

    BANG!

    Another bullet went through Gu Zhi''s head. Wang Lu''s secretary did not even see when his boss took his gun. He didn''t bat an eye as he was also a trained bodyguard as he watched his boss killed the man.

    Wang Lu''s secretary bent down, checking for Gu Zhi''s pulse. The moment his fingers touched his neck, he could not feel his pulse beating, indicating that he was already gone.

    "Mr. Wang Lu, what should we do?"

    Wang Lu looked at Feng Mei who was in pain, sleeping in his arms. His eyes then turned cold as he looked at Gu Zhi''s lifeless body on the floor, his words cold as he told his next orders to his secretary.

    "As long as he''s good as dead, it''s alright. Do everything you can to make sure you cover this issue up. Nothing''s more important than Feng Mei''s safety and security."

 Chapter 261 Alliance

    <h4>Chapter 261 Alliance</h4>

    With Wang Lu telling Lei Zhao what had happened, Lei Zhao waspletely at a loss for words.

    Wang Lu had told him about what had happened in the past¡ªespecially with how they had killed Gu Zhi in order to protect Yan Mei.

    He was shot three times¡­ how could he still be alive? How is that even possible?

    "This¡­" Lei Zhao snapped himself out of his thoughts, taking a deep breath before releasing it. "I did not expect that something as serious as this happened," he mumbled, but it was enough for Wang Lu to hear.

    "I thought everything will be okay since six years had already passed," he said out loud,pletely getting the attention of Lei Zhao. "But why is he here now? How could he have survived that? My secretary and I made sure that he''s¡­ dead."

    Lei Zhao and Wang Lu silenced. Ye Xing kept writing down details as the conversation went by so he could make sure that they had not missed anything¡ªeven a single clue that could help them.

    "So, what do we do now? With what you told me, obviously, that Gu Zhi is the one behind this," Lei Zhao said, Wang Lu looking at him seriously.

    "What happened recently? Tell me."

    Lei Zhao was hesitant at first. But since they had nothing to lose and since it was all for the purpose of protecting Yan Mei, Lei Zhao told Wang Lu of what had happened recently, even before the events that had happened before theunch.

    Lei Zhao told him that he received a mysterious parcel. Coincidentally at that time, Yan Mei also received a mysterious message, calling her "little kitty." Upon hearing this, Wang Lu''s lips turned into a tight line, sensing that their conversation now is connecting the pieces that they have, making the picture clear.

    "''Little Kitty''," Wang Lu mumbled, enough for the two to hear. "It is obviously Gu Zhi''s line. He is purposely attacking Feng Mei as he did years ago."

    Lei Zhao furrowed his brows in worry and at the same time, frustration.

    "All this¡­ just so he could get back with you in hurting his sister?"

    Wang Lu heaved another sigh. He could not believe it either. But with him remembering how Gu Zhi was years ago in the past¡ªhow he acted especially when ites to protecting his sister, Gu Ren, he knew that Gu Zhi was capable of doing such things.

    "Gu Zhi¡­ we could also say that he is mentally unstable. With his immense love towards his sister, it has clouded his judgments."

    Lei Zhao shook his head, not liking with what was happening. He then further told Wang Lu about the other things that had happened after receiving the parcel and receiving the mysterious messages.

    "After that, I suggested Yan Mei to go to her therapist. The moment we went there and was having her talk with her therapist, she suddenly had an attack."

    Wang Lu''s eyebrows creased in worry. His eyes then reflected anxiety as he remembered how Yan Mei acted years ago when he found her. It was difficult for him to bring her back in one piece¡ªto make her return to her senses.

    With him hearing that Yan Mei is having those attacks again? How could he not worry?

    "Did it stop? Was she experiencing it frequently? Was she prescribed medicines?"

    "No," Lei Zhao answered truthfully, "It only happened once, thankfully. We were only advised to take a few days off to rx. It was effective. However, when it was the time of theunch, that''s when she almost had an anxiety attack."

    "Tsk!" Wang Lu clicked his tongue, his hand on the table turning into a tight fist. "With the video going out again, it would really trigger those haunting memories of the past," he added, Lei Zhao looking at him seriously.

    He never thought that he would have a serious conversation with Wang Lu, his wife''s ex-husband. Both of them hated each other but with how they are talking to each other now, it made him realize that they both share one thing inmon.

    Protecting Yan Mei with all their might¡ªwith everything they could.

    "So¡­ what do we do know?"

    Lei Zhao asked, snapping both of them out of their own thoughts. Wang Lu sighed as he tapped his fingers on the table, his eyes wandering to the sea as he thought what both of them would do just so they could protect Yan Mei from this man.

    "We have no choice but to investigate further. I told you what I know, you have to tell me what you know, too," he said, Lei Zhao nodding as he got an extra pen drive, giving it to Wang Lu.

    "I saw a video that may help us," he said, Wang Lu, looking at the pen drive as he got it from Lei Zhao. "Watch itter when you get home. I made extra copies just in case. Then if you find something out, tell me what you know and we can branch out other ns from there."

    "Alright," Wang Lu said, nodding as he kept the pen drive safely in his wallet before putting it back in his pocket.

    "Thank you, Wang Lu," Lei Zhao thanked him, slightly surprising the man. "For having this talk with me. I know it must have been awkward, but we have no choice. I know both of us want to protect the same woman that we love."

    Hearing this, a light scoff came from Wang Lu. For some reason, a small smile appeared on his face even though he slightly felt bitter for being thanked by his ex-wife''s husband.

    Both of them hated each other, but Wang Lu agreed that Lei Zhao was right. Both of them shared the same goal. They want to protect Yan Mei to keep her safe.

    It is indeed an unusual alliance.

    "Alright," Wang Lu said, standing up as he bothered not to finish his breakfast that Lei Zhao treated him. "I have to go, before Feng Mei could see us together."

    Seeing that Wang Lu was already leaving, even Lei Zhao stood up, stopping him in his tracks as he called out to him.

    "Wang Lu."

    The man turned his back to look at his ex-wife''s husband. He knew that he is nothingpared to Lei Zhao but since Yan Mei''s safety is at stake, he would have to work with him even though it hurt his ego.

    Everything¡ªall¡­ for Yan Mei.

    "I know it is not my ce to say this, but I know that Yan Mei did not cheat on you."

    Surprised with what he said, Wang Lu blinked his eyes a few times. He was at a loss for words as Lei Zhao continued talking, speaking his thoughts out as he made an alliance with Wang Lu.

    "I hope you don''t me yourself for what happened. It has nothing to do with you," Lei Zhao said, Wang Lu''s eyes widening as he did not expect these wordsing from the man he hated. "We''ll all have the answers soon. I know Yan Mei wouldn''t do that to you. I know something is up."

    For some reason, Wang Lu feltforted by his nemesis'' words. He scoffed, rolling his eyes at Lei Zhao as a sincere smile shed on his face, replying to what he said.

    "You don''t have to tell me all this," he said, Wang Lu turning his back so he won''t have to face him. "Good bye, Lei Zhao. I''ll let you know what I find out."

    With his retreating figure, Lei Zhao sighed as he shook his head, resting his back on the rest of his seat as he looked at the unconsumed meals in front of him.

    He thought that one both of them would start talking, they would end up arguing with each other. It turns out that the opposite happened. Their conversation was actually productive¡ªpiecesing together like a jigsaw puzzle in order to give a clearer picture.

    With that, a smile shed on Lei Zhao''s face as he looked at the sea, feeling lighter with how the two of them talked.

    For some reason, Lei Zhao found himself trusting Wang Lu. The other felt the same way, too. How ironic it is that the woman that they love turned out to be the bridge in forming an alliance.

    Lei Zhao sighed as he looked up to his secretary who was still standing beside him as he finalized the notes that he had taken down during their conversation.

    "Ye Xing," Lei Zhao called out to him, getting his attention.

    "Yes, Mr. Lei Zhao?"

    A smile crept his face as a light chuckle came from him, making Ye Xing curious as to what he could be possiblyughing about.

    "That man¡­ he did not even bother eating the breakfast we got for him," he said, Ye Xing, cocking his head to the side in wonder.

    "Do you want it as take out, or¡­"

    "No," Lei Zhao shook his head, "Instead, have it with me. I don''t want eating alone, too, as I wait for my wife."

    "O-oh!" Ye Xing was rather surprised to have heard this, yet he stillplied.

    With that, the two had been talking over breakfast the possible ns of what could happen next. They even had a run down of what they have found out from the video and from what they have found out from the conversation a while ago so they could make sure that they could reduce the loopholes of their investigation.

    Soon enough, they may be able to end this issue once and for all¡­

 Chapter 262 Lucky

    <h4>Chapter 262 Lucky</h4>

    Lei Zhao finished the breakfast meal with his secretary, Ye Xing. Afterwards, the two of them exercised at their reserved vi as they waited for Yan Mei''s spa session to end at around lunch time.

    Lei Zhao had finished showering. He was wiping his hair when his eyesnded on the clock on the wall, 15 minutes before noon, indicating that they would have their lunch soon.

    Lei Zhao then looked at his secretary and spoke, getting his attention.

    "I will pick Yan Mei up already from the spa. Have you reserved a ce for us to eatter for lunch?"

    "Yes, Mr. Lei Zhao," Ye Xing answered, nodding at him once at the same time. "All will be prepared by the time that you go to the restaurant."

    "Okay then." Lei Zhao gave his secretary a small smile, "Thank you. Are you sure that you are okay to eat here alone?" He asked, Ye Xing nodded as he gave his boss a small bow.

    "It''s fine, Mr. Lei Zhao. You have a moment with your wife."

    Lei Zhao smiled at his secretary once more. He then walked out of the vi on his way to pick up his wife in front of the spa.

    As Lei Zhao was walking towards the location, every woman''s eyes were on him. Lei Zhao was wearing another floral shirt and shorts, but still, even though he dressed simply, everyone found him attractive.

    "Is he a celebrity?"

    "Wow, he''s so handsome!"

    "Is he single?"

    "Do you think he is here with someone else?"

    "If he is no longer single, then his woman would be so lucky¡­"

    A smile appeared on his face. He particrly liked thest sentence that he heard. Of course, Lei Zhao felt proud of himself. Other than his looks, he is proud of who he is¡ªand how loving he is to people he cares about.

    Lei Zhao waited patiently outside of the spa, leaning on the pir behind him. He crossed his arms in front of his chest, excited to see Yan Mei as he did not see her for half a day.

    ''Now that I have settled things with Wang Lu, I can now have the time to be with Yan Mei,'' he thought, the door of the spa opening to reveal his wife.

    Lei Zhao''s eyes reflected excitement the moment Yan Mei walked out the door. She looked rxed and refreshed at the same time.

    Yan Mei still wore the same clothes that she wore a while ago, but her hair now was in a messy bun, exposing the wless skin of her neck. The moment her eyesnded on Lei Zhao''s familiar figure, Yan Mei''s eyes widened, a flush of blush appearing on her cheek.

    "Wifey!"

    Lei Zhao called out, Yan Mei quickly walking towards him to give him a hug. Lei Zhao embraced her as he kissed the top of her head, Yan Mei giggling as she looked up to stare into his eyes, a sweet smile appearing on her face.

    "You really picked me up," she said, Lei Zhao, chuckling at her excited reaction.

    "I told you I would, didn''t I? I kept my promise, Wifey," he replied, the other people in the ind looking at them with loving and jealous eyes of how sweet the married couple is.

    Yan Mei still had her arms wrapped around Lei Zhao''s waist, "I''m hungry¡­ are we going to have lunch soon?"

    "Yes," Lei Zhao nodded, "Everything is prepared. Don''t worry."

    With that, Lei Zhao started walking, his arm wrapping around Yan Mei''s waist. Yan Mei also wrapped her arm around Lei Zhao''s waist, the two of them already walking towards the restaurant where Lei Zhao ate with Wang Lu a while ago.

    Lei Zhao''s face turned slightly serious when he remembered that he met with Yan Mei''s ex-husband and had asked him about the traumatic experience that she experienced five years ago. He internally sighed as he felt bad for lying to Yan Mei, wanting to tell her what happened so she won''t hide anything from her.

    After a few minutes of walking, the waitress led them to a spot near the ocean as well. Yan Mei had a refreshed smile as she stared at the waves crashing on the shore.

    The moment they sat down, the waitress also served them the food that Ye Xing ordered for them. They both had crabs and shrimps on their te, along with some oysters.

    It had been long since Yan Mei enjoyed eating seafood. She grinned ear to ear as she somewhat danced on her seat, Lei Zhao,ughing as she found her action adorable.

    "You seem to be excited, Wifey," Lei Zhao reacted, Yan Mei nodding enthusiastically.

    "It''s been so long since I ate seafood, Lei Zhao," Yan Mei reacted, drinking the iced tea that was served beside her te.

    Lei Zhao watched Yan Mei, the guilt on his face slowly appearing as Yan Mei met his eyes. Lei Zhao''s eyebrows furrowed as Yan Mei''s smile slowly disappeared, her head cocking to the side as she wondered why Lei Zhao had an unusual expression on his face.

    "What''s wrong? You seem so uneasy, Lei Zhao," Yan Mei reacted, Lei Zhao, sighing as he could no longer keep secrets from Yan Mei.

    "Yan Mei," Lei Zhao called out her name and every time he said her name, she knew he was serious. "I''m sorry."

    Yan Mei raised a brow at him, "For what?"

    "I kept something from you," Lei Zhao straightforwardly said, Yan Mei''s face turning serious. "The reason why I was busyst night until earlier was because I had to deal with somethings¡ªincluding me talking to your ex-husband, Wang Lu."

    Hearing this, the joy in Yan Mei''s eyes disappeared in an instant. Her lips turned into a tight line as her eyebrows twitched, not expecting what Lei Zhao had told her.

    "Wait you¡­ met with Wang Lu?"

    "Yes."

    Yan Mei scoffed, "For what? Even during our honeymoon?"

    "I''m sorry."

    Yan Mei scoffed once more as she rolled her eyes at him. Suddenly, she lost the appetite to eat. She lost the excitement she felt when she saw Lei Zhao. She found it impossible for her to hear those words from him¡ªwhy did he have the guts to talk to Wang Lu?

    Didn''t they hate each other?

    "You have to tell me," Yan Mei said, her eyes narrowing as Lei Zhao felt coldness etched in her voice. "Everything."

    Lei Zhao gulped. He nodded as he heaved a small sigh, telling Yan Mei everything that he had been doing since yesterday until the talk he had with Wang Lu.

    "I asked him about what happened to you years ago."

    Hearing the first statement had instantly made Yan Mei''s body stiffen in surprise. Her trauma is something sensitive to her and with Lei Zhao knowing about it, she instantly felt uneasy.

    Seeing the difort on her face, Lei Zhao''s eyebrows furrowed in worry, feeling guilty of not being honest with her, but he has to be honest with her now.

    "I''m sorry, Yan Mei," Lei Zhao apologized, "I had to seek for some clues about what happened to you and with the issue that is happening to us now, it could be connected to it. What Wang Lu knows may be of help¡ªI had to do something about it, too, not only rely on the other people helping us."

    Yan Mei shook her head. She heaved a sigh as she started rxing, knowing the reason why Lei Zhao had talked to Wang Lu. However, even though Lei Zhao was being honest with her now, Yan Mei could not help but feel uneasy still since the topic about her kidnap is sour.

    "Because of the talk I had with Wang Lu, we had gotten some clues about what was happening."

    "What?"

    The topic at hand now got Yan Mei''splete attention. Both of them stared at each other seriously as Lei Zhao continued telling her what he had found out from the talk he had with her ex-husband.

    "The issues now may have something to do with the man who kidnapped you. Gu Zhi."

    The moment Yan Mei heard this, she sighed as she shook her head, remembering what happened years ago that still sent shivers down her spine.

    "I don''t even know why the man hates me. I am no longer with Wang Lu so why shouldn''t he leave me alone?"

    Lei Zhao shook his head. He sighed once more as he spoke, the atmosphere between them bing serious.

    "Gu Zhi''s target was never Wang Lu, but you all along."

    Yan Mei''s eyebrows furrowed in confusion, "What?"

    Lei Zhao then told everything that he knew to Yan Mei. He told her about the talk he had with Wang Lu, and he had talked to her about the other clues and information that they had¡ªincluding the involvement of Gu Zhi''s sister, Gu Ren.

    With everything connecting like a puzzle giving a clear picture, Yan Mei was obviously at a loss for words. She gritted her teeth as her hands on the table turned into a tight fists, her blood boiling in anger as she now found her suffering unreasonable.

    "So I was tortured¡­ just because of his sister who''s so obsessed!?"

    Yan Mei roared out in anger. She has always thought that the man was a rival of Wang Lu and he wanted to get back at him. But because of such a stupid reason like this he tortured her day and night and even drugged her multiple times untill he finally broke her?

    A/N: Merry Christmas guys! And happy holidays!

 Chapter 263 Compensation

    <h4>Chapter 263 Compensation</h4>

    Yan Mei''s body was trembling in anger as her hands on the table are still closed in a tight fist. She gritted her teeth, her nails digging on her palm, almost making it bleed as she felt her blood boiling through her veins.

    She knew from Lei Zhao that the target of Gu Zhi, the psycho, was her all along¡ªjust because his sister, Gu Ren, fell in love with Wang Lu?

    Ridiculous! Yan Mei thought that it ispletely ridiculous to experience such a thing. Gu Ren was so in love with Wang Lu, and because of that love, with her knowing that he is married to her, she would tell Gu Zhi, his older brother to PUNISH her?

    "I''ve been tortured for so long¡­ I have endured this much¡­ I was hurt and I was drugged¡­ I almost lost my sanity¡­"

    Yan Mei kept mumbling to herself, but Lei Zhao could hear it. He furrowed his brows in worry as he never saw this silent angry expression on Yan Mei''s face.

    He had to admit that seeing her this way sent chills down his spine. With Yan Mei''s anger boiling inside her as if looking for a way to escape, Lei Zhao gulped as he eyed Yan Mei, nervous of what she is feeling.

    "It was all because of her love towards him that I deserve to be punished!?"

    Yan Mei''s voice was loud this time. It got the other customers'' attention, Lei Zhao''s eyes widening as he saw that Yan Mei was about to lose it.

    "I already broke up with Wang Lu, didn''t I? Why should I be punished until¡ª"

    "Wifey, Wifey!"

    Lei Zhao immediately stood up, instantly walking to Yan Mei''s side as he held both of her shoulders in an attempt to calm her down.

    "We''re going to handle this, okay? We''re going to make things better," he whispered, making sure that Yan Mei would hear him.

    Yan Mei was still ring at Lei Zhao. Her body was still trembling as she thought it ridiculous for her to be punished to such lengths just because Gu Ren was obsessed with Wang Lu.

    "I thought he was dead," Yan Mei mumbled, "But why is he still alive? I know that Wang Lu had done something about this," she added, Lei Zhao, sighing as he grabbed his chair to sit beside her.

    "We''re going to do something about this, alright? There is nothing to worry about," he replied, Yan Mei''s eyes now furrowing in confusion and at the same time, doubt.

    "Oh? What are you two going to do? And you seem friendly with my ex-husband now. Don''t you two hate each other?"

    Lei Zhao heaved another sigh, "We''re going to do what we can, alright? I know we hate each other but we have the same goal, Yan Mei," he said, Yan Mei raising a brow at him.

    "Same goal?"

    "Yes." A smile crept on Lei Zhao''s face, "We have amon goal: to protect you."

    A light scoff came from Yan Mei as she rolled her eyes at Lei Zhao. She then crossed her arms in front of her chest out of frustration as she still felt irritated, but at least, she has calmed down now.

    "Whatever you two are doing, you guys are so unpredictable," she justmented, making Lei Zhaough as he yfully ruffled her hair, Yan Mei, narrowing her eyes at him.

    "Put this thought aside now," Lei Zhao said lovingly, "We are out on a honeymoon, remember?"

    Yan Mei turned her body to look at her husband, "Says the guy who let me sleep first. Says the guy who let me go to the spa alone."

    "Aah¡­"

    Yan Mei has a point. He now feels guilty seeing Yan Mei this way, a nervous chuckleing from him as he now started opening the crab for Yan Mei to eat.

    "I''m sorry, Wifey," Lei Zhao apologized, "But I will be giving you my full attention now, I promise," he added, Yan Mei looking at him with still doubt in her eyes.

    "You even prioritized talking to my ex-husband," sheined, making Lei Zhao chuckle as he found what she said funny. "Is he more important than you wife?"

    "Wifey¡­" Lei Zhao was doing his best to coax Yan Mei. "It is that you are important that''s why I swallowed my pride and talked to him even though we hate each other. It is to protect you."

    "Hmm¡­"

    Yan Mei found what he said convincing. Seeing that the expression on her face softened, another chuckle sounded from Lei Zhao as he got a chunk of the crab and extended his hand towards her face in an attempt to feed her.

    "Now let me give all the attention that you need, Wifey. I promise that everything will be given to you now, alright? I''ll make every moment count."

    Now Yan Mei could not help but smile. She yfully rolled her eyes at Lei Zhao as she opened her mouth, her husband feeding her with the crab that he opened for her.

    "Good Wifey," Lei Zhao said, doting on his wife. "I promised I''ll make it up to you. I will definitely make sure of that."

    Yan Mei nodded as she chewed on her food, a smile still stered on her face. Lei Zhao then started eating his meal starting with the shrimps first as Yan Mei got some oysters for her to eat.

    Both of them were now talking about anything under the sun. From time to time, they would talk about what they would do once they go back to City S.

    Every time Yan Mei would stray back to the issue and with herpany, Lei Zhao would always have to divert her attention from those issues so as to not make Yan Mei worry.

    "Are you always this workaholic?" Lei Zhao asked, eating one oyster. "Remember we came here to escape from the city and from work. Now I would be the one throwing tantrums if you think of work more than enjoying with your husband."

    Yan Mei narrowed her eyes, "Oh? But what did you twost night and earlier? Didn''t that¡ª"

    "Ah, hush!" Lei Zhao put a shrimp on her te, shutting Yan Mei up. "What I did was all for you and was important. I did promise to give you my full attention, alright?"

    Yan Meiughed, shaking her head as she took a bite of her shrimp. Lei Zhao chuckled as they continued eating, already enjoying the atmosphere as it was no longer heavy as it was a moment ago.

    ***

    After lunch, Yan Mei and Lei Zhao started walking by the shore. They had their fingers interlocked with each other as they took a stroll, looking at the sea as they enjoyed the sun hitting their skin.

    "Do you want to go somewhere after this?" Lei Zhao asked, Yan Mei, looking up to her husband in wonder.

    "Nothing in particr¡­ is there somece where we could visit here?"

    "Well¡­" Lei Zhao looked at the far end of the ind, pointing at some boulder as Yan Mei followed his finger with her eyes. "There is a locked cave there," he said,pletely getting the attention of Yan Mei as she cocked her head to the side in curiosity.

    "What is with the cave? Can we explore it?"

    Lei Zhao shook his head, "It is not advisable to explore the cave for the customer''s safety. They could if they want to, but patrons rarely do that so they only take pictures outside."

    "Oh!"

    Somehow, an adventurous side of Yan Mei emerged, making her want to see for herself how the cave is inside.

    "Can we visit it then?"

    Lei Zhao looked down to stare at his wife, "Do you want to?"

    Yan Mei raised a brow at him, "Then why did you point the cave if you''re not going to suggest it to me? You were asking where you want us to go¡­ so I assumed you want us to explore the cave."

    Lei Zhao chuckled as he realized that his wife made sense. He nted a kiss on top of her head, Yan Mei giggling as she felt loved with Lei Zhao''s small action.

    They may be married now and may have stayed longer together, still, Lei Zhao has the capability to make her heart swoon and to make her feel giddy as if she was a teenager who fell in love with a man for the first time.

    "Then we could visit thereter before we eat dinner. Yeah?"

    "Yes!" Yan Mei''s eyes glistened as if it were stars on the sky because of her excitement. "It''s something new that we have to experience," she added, Lei Zhao, nodding in agreement.

    The two of them continued walking as they stopped in front of a coconut tree, the two of them sitting under its shade to look at the sea beyond them.

    Yan Mei rested her head on Lei Zhao''s shoulder as Lei Zhao wrapped his arm around her shoulders. Both of them finally started to enjoy the alone time that they had with each other.

    Somehow at this moment, both of them wished that time would stop so they could stay with each other longer before going back to reality in City S.

 Chapter 264 Happy

    <h4>Chapter 264 Happy</h4>

    Hours passed and it was already five in the afternoon. Lei Zhao called Ye Xing to talk to the guards guarding the cave to give them ess for exploration.

    When Lei Zhao called Ye Xing, Yan Mei narrowed her eyes at Lei Zhao as she watched him do a call.

    She found it amazing how Ye Xing and Lei Zhao could be sneaky. She did not notice Ye Xing''s appearancest night and only knew now from Lei Zhao that Ye Xing was here on the ind sincest night.

    Does being a secretary have something to do with being effective in bing a secret when needed, too?

    Two of them were already walking towards the cave. When they arrived in front of the entrance, Lei Zhao and Yan Mei saw Ye Xing carrying their jackets.

    "Mr. and Mrs. Lei." Ye Xing did a small bow to greet them. "Good afternoon."

    "En." Lei Zhao nodded as he got both of their matching jackets, giving Yan Mei one. "Thank you, Ye Xing."

    Yan Mei gave a small smile to Ye Xing as she wore her jacket. Afterwards, she got her scrunchie that was around her wrist, tying her hair into a ponytail to keep her hair in ce.

    The three of them then walked towards the entrance, the two guards giving them a smile as they wee the two.

    "It has been long since people wanted to explore the cave," one guardmented, the three looking at them as they listened to him speak. "It would only be you two today since your secretary asked to make it happen as much as possible."

    Yan Mei raised a brow at Lei Zhao, "You wanted to rent this whole cave to ourselves?"

    Lei Zhao nodded enthusiastically, "Of course! I told you¡ªmy attention is all yours and it would be more exciting to have the cave to ourselves! I want you scared, clinging on to me!"

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes at Lei Zhao''s childishness. She giggled a bit as she heaved a small sigh, looking at the two guards who are guarding outside.

    "Is it safe to be inside?" she asked, the other guard nodding.

    "It is. It''s just that people don''t find it amusing to travel with their lovers and only groups of friends explore inside. However, it is good to be cautious while inside," he answered and said, the other guard giving Lei Zhao a backpack.

    "There is a First-Aid Kit inside along with some walkie-talkies and bottled water. If an emergency arises inside,municate with us immediately. We know the cave like the back of our palm."

    Lei Zhao got the backpack from the guard and wore it on his back. The other guard then gave a map to Yan Mei, making her open it as both of them now saw how the cave looks like inside. Yan Mei''s eyes widened when a part of the map had gotten her attention.

    "This ce," shemented, pointing at the middle most part of the cave''s map. "There''s a spring in the middle of the cave?"

    "Oh, yeah!" The guard sounded enthusiastic. "If you''re up for the walk, you two could go to the spring and it''s definitely breathtaking¡ªstunning!"

    Lei Zhao looked at Yan Mei, "Do you want to visit the spring? It seems far. You might find it tiring when you

    just had a spa day."

    "Ah, no," Yan Mei shook her head, "I''d like to try exploring the ce. It is something that we rarely experience," she added, a smile appearing on Lei Zhao''s face.

    "Alright then," he said, getting the shlights from the guard in front of them. "Let''s explore the cave then."

    With that, the two of them entered, Lei Zhao leading the way as he looked over at Yan Mei to look at the map that she was holding. The guards then sat down in front of the cave''s entrance as they started conversing with Ye Xing about the history of the cave.

    ***

    "Let''s take another left," Yan Mei said, Lei Zhao holding her free hand as his other hand held the shlight to light their path.

    "Through this fork?"

    In front of them were three entrances. Lei Zhao was confused to which left he would take, making sure that they should arrive at the spring to enjoy the location to themselves.

    Yan Mei looked at the map and then back at the view in front of them. She then pointed the middle entrance, the two of them already making way to the spring.

    Their footsteps echoed as they took each step in. It was damp inside as well, making Yan Mei hold on to Lei Zhao''s arm as they continue walking onwards. Since they are already near the spring, Yan Mei kept the map in her pocket.

    "Are you alright?" Lei Zhao asked, Yan Mei nodding even in the dark.

    "I am. Why?"

    "Nothing," Lei Zhao said, continuing to lead the way. "I am just worried that you''re tired because we have been walking for a very long time."

    "Ah¡­"

    Hearing what Lei Zhao had said, Yan Mei now felt that her feet were indeed aching and that her legs started to weaken. The moment Lei Zhao hadmented how long they were walking, that''s when Yan Mei felt that she is getting tired.

    "Let''s just rest when we arrive at the spring. Alright?"

    "Alright."

    They had a silent walk going to the spring. As their footsteps continued to echo, little by little they could already see the glimpse of what is ahead of them. As they continued onward, the cave seemed to be turning brighter even though there was no source of light inside.

    Could it be that there''s a whole in this cave to make moonlight pass through?

    And they were right. The moment they had already arrived in the spring, the body of water was in the middle of the area. Above them was a hole big enough to fit two people, making moonlight pass through as it provided them a natural light. Only then that both of them realized that it was already evening.

    "Wow!"

    Yan Mei widened her eyes in amazement. She was obviously amazed with the spring being in the cave and with the moonlight passing through, it had made the location beautiful, making her forget the feeling that she was tired.

    Yan Mei walked on ahead, going towards the spring. Lei Zhao followed her figure with loving eyes as he watched her enjoy. Lei Zhao then thought that being away from City S isn''t so bad after all. Actually, he would rather want to be away from City S for a long time if this is what it takes to make Yan Mei happy.

    "Lei Zhao¡­"

    Yan Mei called out to her husband, saying his name in the most loving way she could. She turned her body to face him and when their eyes met, it was as if Lei Zhao had fallen in love with her once again.

    "This ce is beautiful. Thank you so much for bringing me here."

    Lei Zhao felt that the organ in his chest was about to burst. His heart started thumping erratically, making him want to approach his wife to give him a loving embrace.

    With that thought in mind, he especially did so. He gave Yan Mei a loving smile as he sauntered towards her, holding her hand as he softly pulled her into his arms. The moment Yan Mei''s head hit on his chest, Lei Zhao heaved a sigh of relief as he kissed the top of her head, not wanting to let her go.

    "Are you really happy with me?"

    "Of course, I am."

    "Are you feeling better now that we are away from the city and from work?"

    "Yes."

    "Are you sure?"

    "I am."

    Yan Mei giggled as she felt how worried Lei Zhao was when ites to her. With that she did a tiptoe as she nted a soft kiss on his lips, surprising Lei Zhao as Yan Mei rarely does this.

    If this is what it takes to make Yan Mei happy, then Lei Zhao would dly do it for her.

    "Lei Zhao, I ampletely at a loss for words."

    Both of them stared at each other straight, their figures reflecting on each other''s eyes. Yan Mei reached out to his face, her hand holding Lei Zhao''s left cheek as her thumb caressed his cheek.

    ??You are doing everything that you can to make me happy. How could I not enjoy a moment with you? You always do you best to make sure I''m safe¡ªyour intentions are clear and pure."

    A smile appeared on Yan Mei''s face, her eyes turning ssy as tears started forming in her eyes. Her heart started to race as she continued looking at Lei Zhao, pouring out her feelings towards him¡ªsomething that she has never done before.

    "I love you, Lei Zhao¡­ and I am d that you''re still here with me despite the things that challenged us to make us fall apart."

    "Yan Mei¡­"

    Lei Zhao could no longer hold it in. With her words heard as it made its way to his heart to pull his heartstrings, Lei Zhao bent down to kiss Yan Mei passionately on the lips. Yan Mei dly reciprocated as she wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling them closer as it left no more space between them.

    With them alone and with them closer in such a beautiful ce like this, it made both of them realize the strong feelings they have for each other.

    Other than that, it had also made both of them realize that they wanted to do more¡ªa new experience that they could have which is not possible back in their city.

    With that in mind, they thought that they ought to do it¡­

    Tonight¡ªto make a wonderful, unforgettable memory.

 Chapter 265 Something magical

    <h4>Chapter 265 Something magical</h4>

    [WARNING: This chapter contains mature R-18 content! If ufortable, you have been warned. You can skip the chapter¡ªbut knowing that this is an exciting prompt, haha¡ªfeel free. XD]

    ***

    Lei Zhao and Yan Mei still had each other in their arms. They were still making out as the moonlight shone upon them as if giving them a magical¡ªmystical night.

    "Mm¡­"

    Yan Mei felt Lei Zhao''s grip tightening around her waist as he pulled her closer towards him even though there was no longer space in between them. Yan Mei put one of her hand down as she trailed it to Lei Zhao''s chiseled chest, turning him on further.

    Lei Zhao licked the bottom of Yan Mei''s lips. Teasingly, Yan Mei bit his bottom lip, smiling against his mouth before she opened her mouth, allowing Lei Zhao to delve his tongue further to intertwine with hers.

    Lei Zhao allowed his hands to wander on his wife''s body. He knew she was his and he knew that he could to anything that he wanted to as long as his wife allowed him and as long as he won''t ever hurt her.

    His left hand traveled up in Yan Mei''s shirt. Yan Mei inhaled sharply as she felt Lei Zhao''s fingers brushing against her skin as it slowly went its way up to her breasts, cupping one of it. He slightly tugged on the cloth of her bra down, making him flicker his fingers on her nipples to tease her.

    "Mm¡­"

    Lei Zhao found Yan Mei''s reaction pleasurable. Like a switch being turned on, he smoothly removed Yan Mei''s bra with ease, her bra falling on the ground as Lei Zhao then pulled her shirt up, Yan Mei already half naked.

    The cool breeze kissed her skin making her tremble. However, when Lei Zhao bent down to start licking her neck as his hand continued to cup and fondle on her breast, Yan Mei bit her lip in pleasure as her hand ran through his hair.

    "Mm¡­ Lei Zhao¡­"

    Lei Zhao liked it every time Yan Mei said his name especially when they start doing it. With her voice sultry and gentle at the same time, it was music to Lei Zhao''s ears as he continued to let his tongue and hands wander on his wife''s beautiful body.

    As he lifted his head up to look at Yan Mei''s reaction, he saw that Yan Mei had her eyes closed, her lips parted as she was tipping her head up in satisfaction. He saw her legs shaking, making Lei Zhao know that his wife was already finding the difficulty to stand up due to pleasure.

    Lei Zhao, at the same time, was scanning the surroundings of the spring. He noticed that there was a t boulder at the other side of the spring, giving him a bright idea.

    He then carried Yan Mei in his arms, surprising her as she wrapped her arms around his neck as Lei Zhao carried her bridal style, walking towards the t boulder.

    "Lei Zhao¡­" Yan Mei''s voice was hoarse, her eyebrows furrowing as she saw that her shirt was on the ground. "My shirt."

    "We''ll pick it upter."

    At the same time, both of them already arrived at the t boulder. Yan Mei shuddered when Lei Zhao put her down, her skin brushing against the damp texture of the rock.

    "Nngh¡­"

    Yan Mei slightly winced, Lei Zhaoughing as he quickly removed his shirt, putting it down on the boulder for Yan Mei to sit on. He also put his jacket on it just so Yan Mei couldfortablyy down if she wanted to.

    Lei Zhao bent down, the man in between Yan Mei''s legs as she supported her weight with her arms. Lei Zhao started to passionately kiss Yan Mei again as his hand settled on her waist, Yan Mei furrowing her brows as she realized what they were doing in the cave.

    "Are we really going to do it here?" Yan Mei asked against his lips, Lei Zhao''s head going down as he kissed her neck once more.

    Lei Zhao did not answer her question. He started leaving marks on Yan Mei''s skin, his wife inhaling sharply as she felt the pang of pleasure hit her skin.

    There is something in the way he did things that makes Yan Mei yearn for more. She knew that they had been doing this for a lot of times already but then, Yan Mei still felt excited when ites to doing it with him.

    To be honest, being alone in this ind''s cave and having the beautiful location by themselves now that they are getting in the mood.

    Yan Mei''s legs were wrapped around Lei Zhao''s waist. Lei Zhao embraced Yan Mei tightly, feeling his hardening shaft against her.

    "Mm¡­ Lei Zhao¡­"

    Yan Mei said his name with love and longing in her voice. No longer keeping it in, Lei Zhao bent down further, Yan Mei already lying on her back on Lei Zhao''s clothes as the man started trailing kisses on her neck, to her cor bones, in between her breasts, until finally, he trailed his tongue on Yan Mei''s nipples, making her moan as she felt his wet, hot tongue.

    "Aaah! Lei Zhao!"

    Yan Mei tipped her back in pleasure. Satisfied with her reaction, Lei Zhao efficiently removed her shorts and underwear, putting them down on the ground as he also removed Yan Mei''s shoes. She felt cold, however, her body started heating up as she was caught in the moment with their lust and love with each other.

    Lei Zhao continued trailing kisses on her mound, his right hand cupping on her right breast as his fingers fondled on her protruding nipple. Lei Zhao, with his left hand, smoothly and slowly put his shorts and underwear down, his shaft on release¡ªas if waiting for a signal to attack.

    Lei Zhao''s left hand then started traveling down to touch Yan Mei''s entrance. The moment his fingers touched her skin, Yan Mei was about to close her legs shut when Lei Zhao had already slowly inserting his fingers inside, surprising Yan Mei with the pleasurable sensation.

    "Aaah! Mmm!"

    Lei Zhao then raised his head to look at Yan Mei''s face. Her face was now flushed red, further turning on Lei Zhao as he then nibbled on Yan Mei''s earlobe, whispering against her ear, sending shivers down her spine.

    "Do you want more, wifey? Hmm?"

    "Mmm¡­ aaah¡­ yes¡­"

    A smug grin appeared on Lei Zhao''s face. Feeling how wet his wife is with his fingers, he then unexpectedly thrust his hardened shaft inside Yan Mei, making the woman gasp as she dug her fingernails on his back.

    Lei Zhao grunted sharply as he felt pleasure of how Yan Mei took him in as if they were a perfect match. It was always like this whenever they did it and it would always be something Lei Zhao would always look forward to.

    He wanted to satisfy Yan Mei. Heck, he wanted to make her feel good until she begs for her release!

    Lei Zhao continued to thrust himself inside Yan Mei. Something about the location where they are now turned both of them on as it was something unique to experience since they were out of the city.

    They have this ce all to themselves¡­ so what is there to lose¡ªwhat''s there to be conscious about?

    "A-ah¡­ Lei Zhao¡­ slowly, mmm¡­"

    Yan Mei tightened her legs around Lei Zhao''s waist. Just like Yan Mei said, the man slowed down so he could make it more intimate with his wife. He respected her requests so much and would always want to do things that would make her happy.

    Lei Zhao respected Yan Mei so much¡ªhe wouldn''t dare disrespect her.

    Lei Zhao and Yan Mei had their forehead against each other. They stared at each other''s eyes as beads of sweat started to form on their bodies, their breaths mingling and fanning on their lips as they panted and moaned from time to time.

    Because of the excitement that the situation gave them, Yan Mei felt that she was about to reach her orgasm. Her hold around Lei Zhao''s body tightened, her fingernails scratching on his back as Lei Zhao now started to quicken his pace as he noticed that Yan Mei was about to reach her release.

    "Yan Mei¡­" Lei Zhao called out her name, his eyes fiery with passion and love. "You''re mine¡­ and you will always be mine!"

    "Nnngh! Lei Zhao!" It was as if the coil from within her was about to spring out for release. "I''m yours! I''m only yours!"

    With that, Lei Zhao continued to satisfy Yan Mei with every thrust he did. Lei Zhao crashed his lips against hers, their tongues exploring each other''s mouth as both of them were about to reach their release.

    "Mmm¡­ ah!"

    "Nnngh!"

    Lei Zhao felt himself rushing and releasing inside Yan Mei. It was as if Yan Mei felt something fiery pooling inside her as she arched her back up, Lei Zhao''s head resting on Yan Mei''s shoulder. Feeling weak, he then copsed on top of Yan Mei as both of them dozed off for a few minutes before moving again to wear their clothes.

    As Yan Mei''s mind was about to go nk, mindlessly, her head turned right to stare at the spring. For some reason, she saw the water sparkling as if gold glitters appeared like a magical moment had happened¡ªas if blessing them with something they wouldn''t know.

    Yan Mei then slowly closed her eyes as she brushed the thought away from her mind. She thought that maybe she was just imagining things because of the pleasure that she felt with Lei Zhao inside this mystical cave''s spring.

 Chapter 266 Little naughty vixen

    <h4>Chapter 266 Little naughty vixen</h4>

    [WARNING: This chapter contains R-16 content. If still ufortable, do skip~!]

    ***

    Liam went out to jog for his morning exercise. He only jogged in the neighborhood so he won''t be jogging away from the house.

    Ying Sheng had been living with Liam for how many days now. With the thought of her being in his house, Liam felt protective of her than ever.

    Liam already jogged for an hour and it was then that he decided that he should go back home for him to be with Ying Sheng and watch over her¡ªto check if she is doing fine.

    Liam started walking back home. Before he left, Ying Sheng was sleeping in the bedroom so he had gotten this opportunity to exercise before suggesting her that they would eat breakfast outside.

    Liam already arrived in front of his house. He input the password of the house then entered, closing the door shut once more.

    He then decided to check on Ying Sheng when he saw that it was already 8 AM on the clock. He walked up the stairs to make way to the bedroom where Ying Sheng was sleeping.

    Ying Sheng slept with Liamst night and with the thought of the girl he loves staying at his house, sleeping on his bed, and waiting for him, a sweet smile crept on Liam''s face as he continued thinking of her.

    He remembered the promise he had told Ying Sheng. He promised to make her fall for him and now that they have more time with each other, he wondered if Ying Sheng is slowly falling for him.

    Liam wanted so bad to know if he was doing well¡ªif he was slowly making Ying Sheng like him.

    With that thought in mind, it actually made him feel a little bit nervous.

    Sighing, Liam shook his head to snap him out of his thoughts. He then removed his shirt then he used it to wipe his sweat during his jog. The moment he opened the door of the bedroom opened; Liam''s body immediately stiffened to see what was in front of him.

    Ying Sheng was seen only in her underwear. Her underwear was bra and panties were in nude colors, and her hair was damp, indicating that she had just taken a bath. She was putting lotion on her legs when the door opened, slightly surprising her but she did not act violently.

    Liam blinked his eyes a few times. Because of what was in front of him, he had dropped his shirt that was on his hand, making him conscious as he realized that his torso was bare in front of Ying Sheng.

    "Liam¡­"

    "Y-yes?"

    Liam stammered and was snapped out of his thoughts. Seeing this reaction, Ying Sheng could not help but teasingly smile at him as she put her leg down from the bed, already standing straight as she deliberately crossed her arms in front of her chest to emphasize her breasts.

    Seeing this, Liam gulped. The soft flush of red on her skin indicated that she had a hot shower, making her look that way. He averted his gaze away from her when he noticed that his eyes started to wander towards Ying Sheng''s breasts, the womanughing as she cocked her head to the side.

    "What''s wrong, baby? Do you like what you''re seeing?"

    Liam furrowed her brows, noticing that Ying Sheng was intentionally teasing him.

    "Ying Sheng¡­ I didn''t know that you were awake," he mumbled, but it was enough for her to hear. "Hurry and dress up. Let''s have breakfast outside after I shower," he said in a rush as he made his way towards the shower.

    "Oh!"

    However, Liam was suddenly stopped in his tracks when suddenly, Ying Sheng wrapped her arms around his waist, pressing her breasts against his body. Liam''s body stiffened as he felt his "little brother" wake up as he felt the soft mounds pressing against him.

    "We''re gonna have breakfast outside?" Ying Sheng feigned ignorance as she continued teasing Liam as if acting innocently. "Are we in a rush to have breakfast?"

    "Ying Sheng¡­"

    Liam''s voice sounded sultry, turning Ying Sheng on. She then started trailing her fingers on his abs, stopping on his chiseled chest as Ying Sheng''s eyes locked with his. She cocked her head to the side, acting like a child as she changed her voice into a higher pitch in an attempt to tease Liam.

    "Can you give Ying Sheng a little something like¡­ pre-breakfast before having the main one, hmm?"

    "Y-you¡­!!"

    Liam inhaled sharply when he felt Ying Sheng''s right hand starting to y with his "little brother". She moved her hands up and down slowly, Liam, tipping his head up as he felt himself stiffening under Ying Sheng''s soft hands.

    Ying Sheng bit her lip as she watched Liam satisfied. With the bed right beside them, Ying Sheng pushed Liam with all her might, making him fall on the bed on his back, Ying Sheng straddling on him.

    "Ying Sheng what are you¡ª"

    "Hush¡­"

    Ying Sheng put her index finger on Liam''s lips, shushing him in an instant. She bent down, making her damp hair fall over her shoulders, the tips touching Liam''s face. She then traced her finger on his bottom lip, making Ying Sheng bend further down to put her forehead against his.

    "I want to get a taste of you, Liam."

    Liam now found Ying Sheng irresistible¡ªinsatiable. His heart started to race in his chest as he felt his blood rushing in his veins.

    Ying Sheng softly nted her lips on Liam''s. She had to admit that even though she is this shameless and naughty, her heart started beating erratically as well as she actually not had much sexual experiences even with the past guys that she dated.

    As their kiss went on, Liam had the confidence to retaliate. He licked Ying Sheng''s bottom lip as he put both of his hands on her bare waist, slightly surprising Ying Sheng with his sudden action. When Ying Sheng gasped, Liam invaded her mouth with his tongue, Ying Sheng turned on as she allowed his tongue to do so.

    Ying Sheng twirled her tongue around Liam''s as well, both of them kissing each other passionately. Ying Sheng held Liam''s shoulder to support her weight and Liam''s right hand then started travelling up as he cupped one of Ying Sheng''s mounds, making her moan against Liam''s lips.

    "Mmmm¡­"

    Hearing Ying Sheng moan was a turn on for Liam. He then slightly put her bra down, making him flicker his fingers on her nipples.

    "Mmm¡­ ah!"

    Ying Sheng tipped her head up in pleasure, stopping their passionate kiss. With her doing so, Liam''s lips wandered on her mound as he let his tongue explore and tease her nipples.

    "W-wait, Liam¡­ ah!"

    Liam did not listen. He continued letting his tongue explore as Ying Sheng ran her hand through his hair, her body trembling in pleasure as she felt his other hand cupping her other breast. He started squishing his breast, teasing her nipple in between his fingers while his mouth continued to pleasure the other.

    "L-Liam¡­ a-ah!"

    Ying Sheng felt her legs weaken. She sat on Liam and when she did, she inhaled sharply as she felt his hardened shaft rubbing against her entrance. Ying Sheng bit her lip as she felt excited and scared at the same time, not having this experience with someone ever.

    Liam''s eyesnded on Ying Sheng''s pleasured face. She had her eyes closed and she was biting her bottom lip as if to stop herself from moaning.

    Liam then lifted his head up as he spoke, getting Ying Sheng''s attention with how sultry his voice sounded, his wanting evident on his voice.

    "You were the one who teased me and now that I am reciprocating your actions, you shy away like a little kitten, hmm?"

    Ying Sheng blushed, hisment hitting bull''s eye. Her face was flushed red in pleasure as her breath slightly hitched with the pleasurable sensation she felt with his hand still groping her breast and his shaft still hard underneath her.

    "L-Liam¡­ I''m sorry, I¡ªah!"

    Liam started sucking her breast once more. His other hand that was cupping her breast then went down as it slid inside her underwear, teasing Ying Sheng as he rubbed his finger in her entrance. His other member twitched below her when he felt how wet Ying Sheng is.

    Ying Sheng felt her whole body getting hotter than it was a while ago. Even though she had taken a bath, she felt hotter than usual. With them getting more touchy than usual, Ying Sheng felt nervous and scared like an innocent girl.

    Surprised, Liam widened his eyes as he did not expect Ying Sheng to push him strongly to give some space between them. When he saw Ying Sheng''s beet red face, Liam blinked his eyes a few times, shocked to see her look and act this way.

    "Ying Sheng¡­ what''s¡ª"

    "W-we''ll do it another time, alright?" Ying Sheng then stood up, getting the dress that she had prepared on the bed. "I''ll dress up quickly then we go eat breakfast outside."

    With her disappearing from the room quickly, Liam slowly sat up as he still couldn''t process what just happened. He thought that he was going to get it on with Ying Sheng with how she was acting. He had to admit that even he couldn''t resist Ying Sheng because of how beautiful she was and how she reacted!

    A chuckle sounded from Liam as he ran his hand through his hair, finding Ying Sheng''s reaction cute. Even though she intentionally teased him, it turned out that Ying Sheng was shy after all! He then wondered when he could have this moment with Ying Sheng and at the same time¡­

    He wondered how he could deal and satisfy his "little brother" with Ying Sheng unintentionally giving him blue balls.

 Chapter 267 First time

    <h4>Chapter 267 First time</h4>

    Since the day that the two had made up, Leng Shao had asked Su Bei out on a date. Su Bei dly epted, making Leng Shao nervous.

    Even though he had a date previously with Su Bei, with the issue that had happened, it still made him feel nervous because of the issue that had happened days ago.

    Leng Shao sighed as he looked at himself on the mirror. He dressed casually, wearing a simple polo shirt and light blue navy jeans with white sneakers. It was a simple outfit, but Leng Shao is actually proud of how he looks like.

    ''Thank goodness for genes,'' he thought to himself, looking at his phone when he felt that his phone buzzed, indicating that he received a message.

    When he opened his phone, he saw that the message was from Su Bei. She said that she was already done preparing and is waiting for him in front of her house.

    With that as the signal, Leng Shao already went out to enter his car, already driving towards Su Bei''s house to pick her up.

    Leng Shao decided to have a simple date with Su Bei today¡ªone that is light-hearted¡ªone that is meant to lighten up the mood.

    He decided that he would watch a movie with Su Bei. Afterwards, they would have lunch and then would have to take a walk in the park before they would have an evening dinner.

    It is going to be a whole day date and he hopes that Su Bei would like it.

    Su Bei was in front of her house. She wore a yellow sun dress and white wedged heels. She had her hair tied in a ponytail and she was wearing her blue cardigan jacket as she waited patiently for Leng Shao.

    Su Bei looked at herself in her phone camera. She puckered her lips as she made sure her lip tint was even. She got powder from her sling bag and started powdering her face for ast-minute dab, making sure that her face looks great today.

    A few minutes had passed and Leng Shao had already arrived in front of Ying Sheng''s house. The moment he stopped the car, he stepped out to open the passenger''s seat door, extending his hand to gesture Su Bei toe inside.

    "Ms. Su," he said, sounding formal, making Su Bei slightly giggle as she yfully rolled her eyes at him.

    "Mr. Leng," she replied formally as well as she walked towards the car, sitting on the seat before Leng Shao closed the door for her. Leng Shao started driving to the cinema so they could choose which movie they wanted to watch.

    "Do you know what''s showing today?" Su Bei asked, Leng Shao, shaking his head to answer.

    "No. I haven''t done any searches," he said, Su Bei, getting her phone to browse the page of the cinema.

    "Maybe I could search now along with the time so we could choose while we''re here in the car," she suggested, Leng Shao, nodding as he agreed to her suggestion.

    Su Bei was already in the cinema''s page. There were four movies showing specifically Jumanji: The Next Level, Charlie''s Angel, an old movie, Why Him?, and then one horror movie which is part of the Conjuring series.

    Su Bei read aloud the four titles, making them talk which one to watch before their dinner.

    "I haven''t watched the first Jumanji movie," Leng Shaomented, Su Bei, nodding in agreement.

    "Me neither," she mumbled, but it was enough for Leng Shao to hear. "Charlie''s Angels seem nice¡­ are you up for it?"

    "Sure," Leng Shao answered, "What is the next screen time?"

    "After lunch time," she said, Leng Shao, stopping the car as the traffic light lit red.

    "How about the other movies? Would you like to consider?"

    "Hmm¡­" Su Bei contemted for a while, "I have already watched Why Him? And the Conjuring seems¡­"

    "Ah¡­" Leng Shao chuckled, "You don''t want to watch horror movies?"

    "Oh, no¡­ please." Su Beiughed, "I don''t want to get stressed, you know? I would rather watch it when we watch it at home."

    "Oh!" A teasing smile appeared on Leng Shao''s face, "Are you implying that you want to watch horror movies when we''re at home together, hmm?"

    Su Bei blinked her eyes a few times, not expecting what she said to Leng Shao. Seeing her shy expression, Leng Shao could not help butugh out loud, making Su Bei pout her lips as she blushed slightly.

    "I wasn''t implying anything¡­"

    "Oh?" Leng Shao chuckled, "But you said ''we'' so I assumed¡ª"

    "Oh, stop it, Leng-Leng."

    Leng Shaoughed out loud once more, even Su Bei found hisugh contagious. Both of themughed as the drive going to the cinema happened, the atmosphere between them lighter as they felt like the issue before was slowly being forgotten.

    Leng Shao parked his car. Afterwards, the two bought their tickets and since the screening of the movie will happen after lunch, the two of them decided to eat lunch before they go to the cinema.

    "Anything that you like in mind?" Leng Shao asked, Su Bei, furrowing her brows as she wondered what to it.

    "I don''t have anything specific in mind¡­ but I do want to eat something unique," she answered, Leng Shao''s eyes already wandering around the mall.

    His eyesnded on Ramen Nagi, a Japanese restaurant serving Japanese ramen. Leng Shao then had a sudden thought of tasting Japanese ramen since it was also something he had not experienced tasting. He wonders if Su Bei had tasted Japanese ramen and if not, they could try it out together.

    "Su Bei, have you tried eating Japanese ramen?"

    When Leng Shao asked this question, Su Bei cocked her head to the side, realizing that she hadn''t.

    "No. Hey, that''s actually a pretty good thing to experience. Have you tried Japanese ramen?"

    A smile appeared on Leng Shao''s face, d that he will have something for the first time with Su Bei even.

 Chapter 268 Slow and passionately

    <h4>Chapter 268 Slow and passionately</h4>

    "No," he answered, "Want to eat Japanese ramen then? It will be our first, too. Together even."

    A flush of pink appeared on Su Bei''s face. With both of them not trying Japanese ramen yet and with the thought of experiencing it with each other for the first time even, it made her blush¡ªthe thought of it as something that they only shared together.

    "Oh, sure!" Su Bei smiled, her eyes smiling along with it. "It will be nice to experience something new."

    With that in mind, Leng Shao and Su Bei walked to the outdoor area of Ramen Nagi.

    "Irrashaimase!"

    The staffs of the Japanese restaurant greeted them as one waitress led them to a table. Leng Shao and Su Bei followed and sat down on their seats, the waitress giving them the menu for them to choose and customize their ramen.

    Both of them looked at the menu. They had four different types of ramen which was Butao King, Green King, Red King, and ck King.

    The Butao King is the best seller and the most ssic among the ramens. Green King would be a ramen that is usually served with Parmesan cheese, Red King, a little spicy with a ball of ground pork, and thenstly, ck King, a squid ramen.

    With these choices, Su Bei decided to try the best seller instead. She encircled Butao King and proceeded to choose her preference such as her ramen having thin noodles, and the softness being hard. She even added extra char siu and tamago to add more to her serving.

    Leng Shao''s eyes were on her. He watched her as she focused on finalizing her customized ramen. When she noticed that she was being watched, she lifted her head up, her eyes meeting his.

    "What''s wrong?" she asked, snapping him out of his thoughts.

    "Oh¡­" Leng Shao realized that he was staring at her for quite some time. A nervousughter came out from him, making Su Bei cock her head to the side in wonder. "I was just wondering what I would take," he mumbled, but it was enough for the girl to hear.

    "Oh! Then why not we have the same ramen, then? Butao King is indeed the best seller of this restaurant," she suggested, Leng Shao, nodding in agreement as he encircled the same customization Su Bei chose for her ramen.

    "Then we''d have the same."

    With their orders finally finalized, Leng Shao called the nearest waitress as he handed her over their order. When the waitress walked away, Leng Shao met Su Bei''s eyes, making his heart skip a beat to see how beautiful the girl is in front of him.

    "What''s wrong again, Leng-Leng?" Su Bei said, giggling at the same time. "You''ve been so out of it. Are you okay?" she asked, Leng Shao, shaking his head to tell Su Bei that she has nothing to worry about.

    Leng Shao extended his arm towards Su Bei, tucking some of her hair behind her ear. Leng Shao''s eyes had not left hers, Su Bei feeling shy as she felt his stare handsomely tantalizing.

    She then averted her gaze as she shyly bit her lip, Leng Shao''s hand now going down as it made its way to hold Su Bei''s hand, his thumb caressing the back of her palm.

    "I''m happy I''m with you right now, Su Bei. Would it be an exaggeration to say that I want to spend more days with you like this so I could win your heart?"

    Su Bei''s eyes widened, her heart racing as she did not expect Leng Shao to say such sweet words to her.

    "L-Leng Shao¡­ you¡ª"

    "You''re beautiful, Su Bei. The issue before scared the crap out of me¡ªI don''t want to lose you," he interrupted, his eyes reflecting his sincere thoughts as he continued to express what he felt. "I''ll make you trust me¡ªI''ll make you believe in me. I''ll make youfortable and happy so that I could have you."

    "Leng Shao¡­"

    Su Bei was obviously at a loss for words. With her reaction, Leng Shao just smiled at her sweetly, his hand still not letting go of her. She shyly looked down on the table, her face heating up as Leng Shao''s words echoed in her mind like a music on rey.

    ''Then¡­ I''ll look forward to the day you''ll make me yours.''

    The waitress appeared before them, holding their food in her hands as she asked if they needed anything else. The waitress left, when they said no leaving both Su Bei and Leng Shao alone.

    Su Bei''s heart thrashed in her heart and her stomach swarmed with butterflies when she saw Leng Shao eyes flickering to her lips. She could tell on his face and the way his eyes lingered on her lips that they both had the same thoughts swimming in their head.

    Fortunately they were both able to control themselves as they enjoyed the rest of the day together and Leng Shao finally found himself liking another woman for the first time.

    After they day out, Leng Shao dropped Su Bei at her house.

    "So...this is it. We are here." Leng Shao said as he ced his hands in his pockets.

    "Hmm...yes. We are." Su Bei chuckled slightly as she replied.

    Leng Shao closed the space between them as Su Bei swallowed. He was too close for their own good. She could literally feel the heat radiating from him.

    She swallowed as she tried to look anywhere but his lips. His hands suddenly came in contact with her cheeks.

    Su Bei stood there in a daze as she watched her reflection in his eyes.

    "Please may I?" He breathed as he caressed her cheeks.

    Su Bei''s skin tingled with anticipation as she swallowed.

    "I-I" She blushed profusely and looked away. Since she couldn''t speak she just nodded.

    The moment she did, he crushed his lips into hers. As if he has been waiting for this moment all his life.

    Su Bei really couldn''t believe she was kissing the man of her dreams. Her heart fluttered in her chest as she closed her eyes and let herself get drown in the warm mouth of Leng Shao.

    She has never felt anything like this. She shuddered the moment he pulled away.

    Shy she looked at her feet on the ground. Leng Shao lifted her chin and titled her head upward making her look at him.

    Shy she slowly looked at him and she swallowed at the emotions on his face.

    "Don''t be shy, unless of course you regret our kiss?"

    Su Bei shook her head.

    "I-I don''t. It''s was¡­.good."

    Leng Shao chuckled when he heard her.

    "Good. It''s been a long time since I kissed a girl so I was worried that my skills has be awful."

    Su Bei widened her eyes when she heard him.

    "How long?"

    Leng Shao rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly at her question.

    "Seven years?" He said as he let out a littleugh.

    Seeing the surprise look on her face, he quickly added,

    "Don''t worry it might be a long time since I touched a woman but I''m still good! You don''t have to worry about my performance."

    Su Bei blushed when she heard him.

    "You...what are you talking about?"

    Leng Shao smirked at her.

    "Nothing just that I''m still capable of making you scream my name. So don''t worry."

    Su Bei cheeks flushed red as her eyes subconsciously traveled in between his legs.

    "Goodnight, Leng Shao. I had fun today." Su Bei said.

    Clearly she was running away. She needed to clear her head. She felt like everything was moving too fast.

    Leng Shao nodded.

    "Goodnight, and if you dream about me know that I like it slow and passionately."

    Su Bei widened her eyes as she found herself getting hot just thinking about his words.

    "Pervert!" She said as she awkwardly bolted inside her house, leaving aughing Leng Shao behind her.

    Su Bei closed the door and leaned against it to calm her beating heart. This man will be the death of her with his dimples and mesmerizing smile.

    A/N: Thank you guys so much for your support and love this year. You guys made my year special and for that I say thank you very much!

    May we all see each other on the other side. Anything you lost in reading my book may God give you more in abundance.

    Happy new year!

    love,

    Chichii.

 Chapter 269 Stupid in love

    <h4>Chapter 269 Stupid in love</h4>

    To say the past few days were fun was an understatement. Lei Zhao and Yan Mei spent most of their days together.

    They spent time together exploring the ind,taking pictures, jumping off waterfalls and of course the mad and mind blowing sex.

    They literally spent every moment together and couldn''t keep their hands off each other.

    Lei Zhao taught Yan Mei how to even surf and it was so fun. Seeing his wife so happy and carefree made his heart swell with happiness.

    "Wifey¡­." Lei Zhao called Yan Mei out softly as he turned to look at her.

    They were currently lying on the sand as they looked at the night sky above them. It was ethereal as it glittered with a thousand stars.

    "Hmm.." Yan Mei replied absentmindedly as she continued to stare at the star for some weird reason she could see the face of a young girl smiling at her.

    She was sure it was her daughter watching her from above.

    A lips subconsciously curved into a smile. For the first time the thought of her daughter brought a smile on her face.

    "What are you thinking about?" Lei Zhao asked as he stared at her eyes glistening with happiness.

    "My daughter." Yan Mei replied softly.

    Lei Zhao shifted to her side, breathing in her scent. He ced his hands on her chin and tilted her face to meet his.

    "I''m sure she must be happy watching you from above. All of them must be proud of you. They must be rooting for you." Lei Zhao said.

    Yan Mei looked at him and he saw her eyes brewing with a strong emotion.

    "Lei Zhao¡­."

    "Yes dear." Lei Zhao replied as his lips curled into a soft smile.

    "Honestly tell me, when you saw that video what were you thinking? Why do you always stay no matter how much I push you away? Are you just stupid or you''re just in love with me? What do you even see in a monster like me?"

    Lei Zhao chuckled at her words.

    "Yes, I''m stupid you can say that. Stupid in love with you. When I first saw the video my first thought was¡­."

    Lei Zhao paused as a mad glint passed in his eyes. "I''m going to kill that man.Then I''m going to rece that memory. I don''t care if it was you or not in the video.

    Was I jealous? Yes. Was my heart bleeding? Yes. No man can stand seeing his woman in another''s arms even though it happened years ago. But...my love outweighs everything. So what if it''s true? As long as you say is not you I''m going to foolishly and blindly believe in you.

    For you have be the light in my dark world. My ray of hope and no-one can wrench you out of my embrace. And if anyone or anything dares to hurt you I will rain a harrowing torment on them."

    Yan Mei looked at his eyes and saw the emotions churning inside their depths. Staring into his eyes, she crushed her lips into his.

    For a second all was still. Then Lei Zhao kissed her back, firmly and passionately this time.

    His heart rate doubled and his blood coursed hot through his body. With equal passion he grabbed the back of her neck, fingers slipping into her dark hair and pulled her close.

    She let out a moan as he moved to kiss her neck. Sucking gently as he let out marks on her. His shorts began to get tighter. Lei Zhao began rubbing his hard on in between her thighs.

    He wanted her but he knew better than to take his wife in the sand. She deserves better. Mastering his self control he pulled away and buried his head in the crook of her neck to calm himself down.

    Both of them were panting.

    "Lei Zhao¡­." Yan Mei called out weakly.

    Lei Zhao took a deep breath as he pulled away and stared at her face.

    Yan Mei grinned and cupped his cheeks, then she ced a quick kiss there.

    "I love you Lei Zhao!" She screamed as a genuine smile broke on her face.

    Lei Zhao found himself falling in love with her smile all over again. His heart skipped a beat as he imprinted the smile in his memory. In the next fifty years when they are older and are enjoying the sunset he wants to remember this special moment.

    Without waiting for his response, Yan Mei stood up andughed as she run towards the water. Lei Zhao stood up from the sand and watched her. She looked so happy and carefree like a child.

    Lei Zhao quickly took out his phone and the moment he turned on the camera she turned toward him and smiled softly at him.

    The camera captured it and Lei Zhao broke into a smile. His wife was so fucking beautiful and he was one hell of a lucky guy.

    He could fall in love with her all over again.

    He put his phone down and ran towards her in the water. The moment he reached her, he wrapped his hands around her waist and swirled her around causing Yan Mei to chuckle.

    "I love you Wifey!" Lei Zhao roared causing Yan Mei to chuckle.

    "I love you more." A wild grin graced her face then she cupped his cheeks and pressed a quick kiss on his lips.

    A/N: Hy guys so we are going to be having a challenge this month! In order to give back since you guys have been showing me lots of love I have decided to hold a challenge!

    Yes a challenge and a chance to win $30 Amazon gift card , discord nitro and a 100 coins!

    So the challenge is a race for top fan and top voter from 1st -31st January

    The number one top fan will get $30 Amazon gift card, discord nitro, shoutout too and 100 coins plus a special privilege concerning the book.

    2nd ce will get $20 Amazon gift card and 100 coins

    3rd ce will get $10 Amazon gift card and 100 coins

    1st ce top voter will get 100 coins and discord nitro

    Then the 2nd and 3rd ce top voter will also get 100 coins which is valid for 1 year!

    So keep voting,menting, review. Let the race begin!

    Love, Chichii. Happy new year!!!!!!!

 Chapter 270 I need you

    <h4>Chapter 270 I need you</h4>

    warning: mature content ahead;

    After their little episode, Yan Mei and Lei Zhao came back to their house on the ind.

    Lei Zhao had a call so Yan Mei decided to shower and wait for him.

    While running the water, she thought maybe she''d be cheeky and send Lei Zhao a quick text.

    "Getting in the shower¡­ getting wet for you".

    Knowing he''d only be there around when he finishes the call she knew she could take her time and daydream with the hot water streaming down her. She undressed and slipped into the shower.

    Lei Zhao on the other hand, was talking to his mother on the phone .

    "Mom." Lei Zhao greeted his mother the moment he picked up the call.

    "Lei Zhao, how are you and XiaoMei?" Lei Xiao Tong''s tired voice sounded on the other side of the phone.

    Clearly she was tired from all the drama going on. Lei Zhao couldn''t help but feel distressed hearing his mother''s tired voice.

    "Good mom. How are you? You sound tired"

    Lei Xiao Tong chuckled lightly when she heard Lei Zhao.

    "Yes I am but it''s all worth it. When will youe home? I have finally found out the clues." Lei Xiao Tong rubbed her temples as she asked Lei Zhao.

    These past few days have been stressful finding all the answers to the mystery of the video but everything was worth it.

    She had managed everything and convinced the general public that the video was released by a rival of Yan Mei.

    Fortunately everyone knows how toxic the business world is so they believed the stories.

    "Tomorrow." Judging from his mother''s tone, Lei Zhao knew she had found something.

    "Okay then see you when you get back. I won''t waste your time. Go and apany Yan Mei. Extend my greetings to her."

    "Okay mom. Love you."

    "Love you too. Take care."

    The moment Lei Zhao hung up the call, he saw the text message sent by Yan Mei and a smile etched on his face.

    His wife was getting naughtier everyday and he wasn''tining one bit.

    He walked towards the bedroom. He could hear the water from the shower still running ¨C the door was cracked open, steam slowly filtering out of it.

    Yan Mei turned to look at the door when she heard it being opened.

    She pulled back the shower curtain, water still streaming, hair barely covering her nipples. Lei Zhao swallowed.

    "Like what you see?" Yan Mei''s teasing voice asked him.

    Lei Zhao licked his lips and nodded absentmindedly.

    "Then what are you waiting for?"

    Just like that, Lei Zhao unbuttoned his shirt, pulled down his shorts as Yan Mei silently watched him.

    Lei Zhao couldn''t take his eyes off Yan Mei''s curves. He had sucked and caressed them a million times, but looking at them now, pink from the warm water, drove him crazy. He stepped into the shower and immediately kissed her.

    Her arms around his neck as their lips melt into one and her tongue searches out his. She sucks on his bottom lip and a moan escapes from deep in his throat. She can feel him harden in between her open and parted legs.

    Yan Mei eagerly reached for his penis, which was already hard for her, soaked with pre-cum. Rubbing his juices under his tip made him tremble in her hands. Adding a ssh of water, she started teasing his balls, groping his shaft and kissing his neck ¨C right behind his ear.

    Lei Zhao groaned as she started to stroke him. The water running down his back made it more pleasurable for him. Lei Zhao knew that if he doesn''t make her stop he wouldn''tst long.

    He grabbed her fingers and stopped her movements.

    "Wifey¡­.stop" Lei Zhao murmured as his lips brushed against her corbone. He released her hands as his fingers grazed down her chest to her corbone.

    A gasp left Yan Mei''s lips as Lei Zhao''s fingers dipped between her legs. Lei Zhao smirked against her neck.

    Yan Mei''s legs trembled as she gripped his shoulders for support.

    "Lei Zhao.." she rasped out, his fingers starting their sweet torture. She threw her head back with Lei Zhao lips traveling down the flesh of her chest, down her stomach until it reached between her legs.

    He pressed kisses between her legs driving her insane with the amount of pleasure coursing through her.

    Suddenly he stopped then looked up at her,

    "Tell me Wifey...What do you want?" His lips mumbled against her aching core begging for the needed attention.

    Yan Mei bit her lips as they gazed into each other''s eyes.

    "You...I need you"

    Lei Zhao grinned as he grabbed her butt cheeks and pulled her closer to him.

    "Anything for my darling."

    Yan Mei moaned as his tongue flicked her clit as his fingers drew small circles across her thighs.

    Yan Mei closed her eyes as she surrendered to the sweet torture. The water hitting her breast, gently fondling her nipples until it rolled down to her stomach onto Lei Zhao''s forehead.

    Suddenly Lei Zhao slowed down his movements teasing his wife.

    Yan Mei opened her eyes and bemoaned.

    "Lei Zhao please!"

    Lei Zhao smirked and increased the movement of his tongue taking her harder and deeper.

    Yan Mei gasped as he inserted two fingers inside her. His tongue moved faster against her with his fingers thrusting inside her.

    Feeling her tighten around his fingers, Lei Zhao pulled away.

    "Not too fast love. You''re not cumming yet"

    Lei Zhao husky voice said. He stood up and pressed a quick kiss on Yan Mei''s lips.

    "Jump." He said as his hands slid between her thighs making her wrapped her legs around his waist, he pushed her against the shower wall.

    His hand moved between them as he grabbed his cock and lined himself at her entrance.

    "Ready love?" He asked as he gazed lovingly into her eyes.

    Yan Mei parted her lips but no words came out so she nodded.

    Without taking his eyes off her, Lei Zhao slowly slide inside her.

    "Aah¡­" Yan Mei moaned out at the sensation of having him inside her.

    Pulling out, Lei Zhao thrust slowly inside her again before he began to increase his pace. The sound of flesh hitting flesh, moans and grunts filled the bathroom.

    "Hmm..Lei Zhao¡ªdon''t stop¡­..!" Yan Mei breathed as she threw her head back and closed her eyes.

    Hitting her spot, a thick scream escaped her throat. Lei Zhao rubbed her clit and that''s all it took for her to writhed in pleasure. Her toes curled and her back arched as she cummed.

    Lei Zhao didn''t stop he moved faster deeper harder until with a loud groan he released inside her.

    "I love you" he said with a raspy smile.

    Yan Mei''s soaking hair covering her face, she gasped for air once her body stopped shaking.

    "I love you too."

    Yan Mei slowly slid off his waist. Testing her leg to see if it was still working.

    Lei Zhao smirked in satisfaction when he saw her legs trembling.

    "Let me help you clean up. After all the night is till young." Yan Mei blushed and nodded.

 Chapter 271 A deal with the devil

    <h4>Chapter 271 A deal with the devil</h4>

    Gu Zhi looked at the photos his assistant had brought and his lips curved into a sinister smile. It seems his little kitty was really enjoying her time with her husband such a shame it wouldn''tst.

    Subconsciously he found himself trailing his fingers along Yan Mei''s face in the picture. She has grown into such a beautiful woman over the years. He had to admit Feng Mei was a beautiful woman no wonder a big man like Wang Lu loved her.

    Seeing her smile so carefree and beautiful made his heart skipped a beat for an unknown reason.

    Gu Zhi frowned at this strange feeling and put the photo down. Standing up he walked to the table to pour himself a ss of whisky.

    Maybe being alone all these years was messing with his head. He needed a good fuck tonight.

    The little maid he yed chess with the other day shed through his eyes. Gulping down the whiskey, Gu Zhi decided to call for her services tonight.

    The moment he put down the ss. The lights flickered and everything became too quiet.

    He heard the cracking sound as the door slowly opened. Gu Zhi saw a shadow standing at the doorway.

    He blinked then the shadow was gone as if it was an illusion. Gu Zhi let out a humorlessugh, clearly he was being paranoid or was he?

    Suddenly the hair at the back of his neck suddenly stood out as he felt a warmth breath of someone over his shoulder.

    Gu Zhi spun around but there was no one there.

    "Who is there?!" He roared out angrily but dead silence greeted him.

    With the lights flickering aggressively now, he saw a long, skinny body with horns on the wall crawling towards him. The figure had sharp ws that screeched against the wall. It''s eyes glowed bloody red as it''s tongue snaked out to lick it''s lips showing off the sharp teeth.

    Gu Zhi stumbled back and shook his head.

    "N-no no it can''t be!" He mumbled coherently as he found his body in a trance. He couldn''t scream or run. Gu Zhi stood there stiff as the creature reached him.

    Dispair constricted his chest. "You don''t seem happy to see me dear."

    The creature said as it grinned a twisted grinned at him.

    Gu Zhi sucked in a thick air as he swallowed.

    "N-no." He shook his head as he said nervously.

    The creatureughed as it''s long tongue snaked out and licked Gu Zhi''s lips.

    "Oh I forgot I can be quite horrendous in my demonic form. Did I scare you?"

    The creature chuckled manically as a ck smoke surrounded it changing the creature into a beautiful woman.

    To use beautiful to describe her was an understatement. She was absolutely gorgeous. Like a fallen angel gorgeous as her thick, dark red haired fell on her shoulders down to her waist.

    Eyes of the color of a zing fire gazed down at Gu Zhi as her sensual lips curled into a grin.

    "I do apologize for scaring you earlier."

    Gu Zhi swallowed as he calm down his raging hormones.

    Anytime she spoke he found himself getting lost. Her voice was absolutely breathtaking.

    She was a devilish temptress and she knew it. Just the sound of her voice can cause nations to fall. Make men mortal enemies.

    Suddenly the grin on her face morphed into a frown as she sat down while crossing her leg over the other.

    "So tell me¡­" She paused as she looked at Gu Zhi.

    Gu Zhi''s heart jolted in his chest as his palms became mmy.

    "Why is that man''s child still alive? I gave you a simple task in exchange to live again but it''s been years and you still haven''t been able to do anything."

    The woman lips morphed into a smile. A smile Gu Zhi knew too well.

    "I-I have finally found her and everything is going ording to my ns. I just need more time."

    The almighty and arrogant Gu Zhi couldn''t help but be afraid of the temptress before him. He stammered.

    A shiver run along his spine when he heard her sinisterugh. His stomach turned and he suddenly felt a hot liquid on his lips.

    Subconsciously he licked his lips and tasted the blood on his lips. He felt more liquid trickling down his face and clothes. Gu Zhi knew better than to scream or run away. He watched as the woman stood up and strode slowly towards him.

    With sudden movements she touched the blood on his forehead and brought it to her lips.

    "Time?" Sheughed out.

    "I don''t have that much patience my dear. Now my patience is running thin. I think I have been lenient with you so you have forgotten who owns you."

    Gu Zhi shook his head when head. How can he forget the deal he made with the devil? It has been haunting him every night.

    "No I haven''t! I have nned everything I will kill her soon!"

    "Hmm¡­for your sake I hope so or you know what I will do to your poor soul, human."

    Suddenly Gu Zhi could smell his flesh burning as he screamed out, "Why? I told you I need time"

    The woman watched him in silent and then began to fade away, with herst statement,

    "Your punishment for wasting my time. The next time Ie it will be worse." Sheughed.

    "Remember our deal darling, a deal with a devil is no child''s y, human. One week. You have only one week." Then she disappeared leaving Gu Zhi to groaned and writhed in pain.

    Gu Zhi has no idea how long his flesh burned. Thest thing he remember is the sun set and his regret for making a deal with the devil.

    But thinking about his sister and the promise he made her, his lips curved into a smile. It doesn''t matter how much he suffers for the love of his sister he can withstand any pain and rain torment on her enemies. With thisst thought he cked out.

 Chapter 272 Fruit of a forbidden love

    <h4>Chapter 272 Fruit of a forbidden love</h4>

    FLASHBACK

    Darkness andplete silence surrounded Gu Zhi. He had no idea where he was or how he got here even in the first ce. Wait, he died.

    Thest thing he remembers is the bullet that Wang Lu put in his head but what was he doing here? Is this ce hell? Or purgatory? Gu Zhi scanned the ce but all that greeted him was darkness. He couldn''t see anything. His mind was having a hard timeprehending the situation.

    "Where the hell am I?" he crooked out but unfortunately no one was there to answer his question. He walked on for what seemed like miles through endless corridors but still there was no speck of light yet.

    Gu Zhi stared at the darkness until he saw two red dots. At first, he was happy to finally see a different color apart from the dark until he realized that those red spots were a pair of eyes. He stood in a trance as the thing possessing the red eyes started to move towards him. All his life he has never been afraid of anything until now. The thing which Gu Zhi realize was some sort of creature possessed a bull-like hornsing out of its head. It was at least three feet long with its eyes zing fire. It was the scariest thing he has ever seen. He just stood there, unable to do anything as the creature approached him.

    Just as the creature was a foot away from him, he saw a someone wearing a ck cloak appearing in between him and the creature. Gu Zhi has no idea what the person said to the creature but it let out a series of angry roar and disappeared.

    The person in the ck cloak turned around and faced Gu Zhi. He couldn''t tell if it was a male or female but judging from her petite stature, he guessed it was a woman. Gu Zhi couldn''t see her face. Except for a faint outline of her lips and white skin.

    "Apologizes, my pet can be quite aggressive."

    Gu Zhi swallowed when he heard the woman''s mellow voice. There was something in it that draws you in.

    "W-Who are you?'' Gu Zhi stammered as he stared at the figure in front of him.

    She moved closer to him and stood tiptoed since Gu Zhi was taller than her and whispered in his ears.

    "I''m your ticket back to life to finish what you started." She run her lips across his cheeks then stepped back.

    "What are you talking about? Also, if I''m dead. Is this hell? Are you the devil?"

    The woman chuckled humorlessly," Devil?" She asked emotionless

    "Well¡­.me and that despicable man aren''t on best terms so no I''m not the devil." A glint of light passed through her eyes quickly before Gu Zhi could decipher what he saw.

    Gu Zhi took arge visible gulp of air as he cautiously looked at the woman in front of him. The woman smiled wickedly when she noticed the fear in his eyes.

    "Don''t be afraid human. I have a preposition for you." Gu Zhi couldn''t help but frown when he heard her.

    "What preposition?" he spoke praying that his voice wouldn''t give away any signs of weakness.

    The corners of the woman lips lifted in amusement when she heard him.

    "Well do you want to live again? Do you want to go back and make the people who drove your sister crazy to suffer? Think about it do you think with Wang Lu''s influence he can''t find the best doctors to cure the woman he loves? Then everything you did will be a lost cause."

    Gu Zhi knitted his brows together as his fears was soon reced by confusion and uncertainty as he tried toprehend and what she was saying.

    First of all, how did she know about what he did to Feng Mei? And why was she offering him such a preposition?

    "What is the catch? Because I know nothing is free." A crooked smile graced the woman''s lips again.

    "Nothing just your soul and to help me remove the fruit of that forbidden love."

    "Forbidden love? What are you talking about?"

    She cut him off with a flick of a hand.

    ???Don''t ask questions human. Do you want me to save you? You have only 60secs to make a decision before your torturer in helles for you."

    Gu Zhi suddenly felt like he was bing distant with his body and he was starting to lose memories.

    His head started swimming as he felt light what as if he was defying gravity.

    "Tick tock tick tock tick tock "The woman chanted as she waited for Gu Zhi to make a decision.

    "What is happening?"

    "Hurry and make a decision, your time is running out. Do you want to live or not"?

    "Yes, yes I want to live!" Gu Zhi said hurriedly as fear gripped his whole being.

    "Are you willing to give me your soul and help me with my requests?"

    Gu Zhi mind was going nk and he was quickly losing his touch with his surroundings.

    "Yes, yes I will do anything you want! Please save me!"

    "Gu Zhi because you have epted my preposition I, the demon of lust gives you a second chance at life. But along with the offer you will be my ve until yourst breath. I will give you everything you want but when you die your soul will be mine.

    Before Gu Zhi can say anything, she crushed her lips against his and bit his lips as blood from his lips on to her tongue.

    After what seems like forever but clearly a few second, she pulled away as a sinister smile graced her lips.

    "Remember your mission while on earth, human. Make sure to kill the abomination before she blooms into something more powerful like her father,"

    Gu Zhi frowned in confusion. "Who is this abomination?"

    "Feng Mei"

    Before Gu Zhi can ask any more question, he found himself falling in oblivion.

 Chapter 273 Love at first heartbeat

    <h4>Chapter 273 Love at first heartbeat</h4>

    Gu Zhi grunted in pain as he felt his whole body on fire. He felt like he was burning from inside out. He wanted to scream out but it was like he was trapped in a deep volcano with no one to help him.

    "Kill the abomination."

    "Destroy the fruit of that forbidden love,"

    "Remember your mission."

    "Don''t fail or you will suffer a fate worse than death."

    "Kill her! Destroy her!"

    Voices echoed in Gu Zhi''s mind driving him to a point of madness. With an agony scream he jolted awake panting,

    He scanned around his surroundings and realize he was still in his room. His brows furrowed into a deep frown when he realized he wasn''t alone. He looked down and saw that he was sleeping on his bed but someone was beside him.

    The young girl''s snore sounded in the quiet room and for some weird reason it calmed down Gu Zhi.

    He stared at the girl for a moment, subconsciously he raised his hands and brought it to her face as he removed the hair sticking on her face.

    Yu Xi-the girl who he had once yed chess with was sitting on a chair by his bedside as she doze off. Drool wasing out of her mouth but instead for him to be disgusted, Gu Zhi found her kind of cute.

    "Silly, she can''t even sense someone around her." Gu Zhi mumbled. His eyes fell on the bucket of water containing towels and furrowed his brows.

    ''Did she take care of himst night? But why?''

    An unknown glint passed through his eyes. Without waking her up, he stood up from his bed and carried her from the chair to his bed.

    Yu Xi stirred when she felt someone holding but she was to immersed in dreand to even open her eyes.

    "Gu Zhi is that you?" She mumbled as she snuggled closer to Gu Zhi''s body.

    Gu Zhi stiffened and for some weird reason he found his dead heart beating for the first time.

    *********

    Yan Mei''s eyes fluttered opened and they were met with a brown orb that were staring right into hers. She blinked for a couple of times as she stared into those brown orbs for some reason, she felt so happy seeing those brown orbs the moment she woke up. It was the best feeling in the whole wide world.

    "Good morning babe." Yan Mei whispered to him as she moved closer to him. Lei Zhao wrapped his arms around her as she moved against his chest with her body. He pressed a kiss on her forehead as he replied her.

    "Morning wifey. How was your night?" Lei Zhao squeezed her as his lips curved into a satisfied smile. Having his wife in his arms made him feel like he was lying on clouds and having a nap in heaven. Something he never wants to give up.

    "Good¡­" Yan Mei said trailing her fingers along his strong abs.

    "Did you dream about me?" Lei Zhao asked as he started ying with her hair.

    "No!" Yan Mei pouted as she shook her head.

    "Why wifey? How can you let go of the opportunity to dream about your hot husband?" Lei Zhao bemoaned.

    "Because a certain someone wouldn''t let me sleep the whole night. The moment I fell asleep I was too tired to enter in the dreand!"

    Chuckling, he dragged her into hisps, with Yan Mei holding his shoulders for bnce. Lei Zhao brushed her hair away from her neck as his fingers moved along the side of her neck.

    Yan Mei sucked in a deep breath as he pressed a small kiss at her sweet spot.

    "Sorry Wifey...you''re tired because of me. Will give you a personal massage when we get home. What do you say?"

    Yan Mei smiled and nodded.

    "I will love that."

    Yan Mei lifted one hand and curved it against his cheeks.

    "I love you Hermosa." Lei Zhao breathed as he pressed his face more fully into her palm as his dark eyes stared into hers.

    Yan Mei heart swelled at his words.

    "Just love me? Aren''t you obsessed about me too?"

    Lei Zhao ced his hands under her butt, settling her more firmly against him.

    "Yes, I am obsessed, possessive and crazy about you!" He said with a smirk and a teasing gleam in his eyes as he pressed kisses all over her face causing her tough out loud.

    "E stop Lei Zhao¡­...stop." Yan Mei bemoaned as she tried to hide her face from Lei Zhao.

    "Not until you tell me you love me too."

    "Who loves you? I don''t love a kid like you. You''re like a baby." Yan Mei scrunched her face as she said.

    Lei Zhao stopped nting kisses on her face when he heard her and smacked her ass.

    "What did you just say?" He mumbled dangerously in her ears.

    "Lei Zhao!" Yan Mei roared angrily when his hands connected her ass.

    "Yes dear." He replied her sweetly.

    "What do you think you''re doing pping my ass like that?"

    "Pah.." Lei Zhao smacked her ass again earning a deadly re from her.

    "What? I''m just ying with what is mine. Also, can a baby do this?" He grabbed her ass and gave a hard squeeze earning a moan from her.

    Lei Zhao chuckled when he heard her.

    "I''m no baby love I''m a big bad daddy." He winked at her as his hands threaded through her hair.

    "Whatever let''s go and bath. We have a flight to catch remember?"

    "Why are you in a hurry to ride a ne babe when you can ride me instead?"

    Yan Mei rolled her eyes at his words and shook her head helplessly.

    "Cheesy."

    "Yes, but you''re madly in love with me, aren''t you?"

    Yan Mei harrumphed and cross her hands across her chest.

    "No, I don''t!"

    With his hands still under her butt and settling her more firmly against him, Lei Zhao stopped up lifting her with him. Instinctively, Yan Mei wrapped her legs around his waist. He kissed her hard and started towards the bathroom.

    "Don''t worry once I''m done with you, you will be screaming yes daddy. "He winked at her.

    Yan Mei linked her hands around the back of his neck and smiled.

    "Then what are you waiting for, Daddy?"

 Chapter 274 Devilâ€™s Agent

    <h4>Chapter 274 Devil¡¯s Agent</h4>

    Yu Xi stretched her body in the soft body as a masculine scent hit her. She heard a darkugh which caused her to abruptly wake up.

    "Well it seems someone is enjoying my bed a little too much."

    Yu Xi stiffened when she realized this was not definitely her room. Everything seemed so dark and lifeless.

    She looked at where the voice was heard and she squealed when she saw her boss sitting on a sofa in the room.

    He was wearing a suit and he looked well groomed. He looked handsome. She thought as the blood rushed to her cheeks as she began to blush.

    Gu Zhi put down the newspaper he was reading and stood up. Striding towards her, Yu Xi sat there petrified and frozen to the spot as his eyes stared into hers. Yu Xi gulped and backed away.

    "Don''t." He warned.

    His husky voice sending shivers down her spine.

    ''What is he going to do?'' The question swirled in her mind. She stopped moving and swallowed with fearced in her eyes.

    She was sure that she looked horrible and his intense stare made her feel worse.

    "Look at me." He said as he held her chin. Hesitatingly, she looked at him and she felt her heart beating rapidly.

    His eyes contained so much emotion that it was suffocating to watch. She dropped her gaze and let it wander around the room.

    "How did you get in herest night?" Gu Zhi asked as he ced his hands in his pocket.

    Yu Xi fidgeted with her hands and blushed slightly.

    "I-I you¡­"

    "What?" Gu Zhi raised his brows as he gazed at her.

    "I didn''t see youe down against when you entered your bedroom. Wait-it''s not like I''m stalking you or anything. Nono I was just¡­.worried. I overheard one of the maids saying they heard some muffled cries in your room so I-"

    "Yu Xi-"

    Gu Zhi interrupted her ranting and heaved a sigh

    "Why were you worried about me? Don''t tell me you like me?" He says. His voice sent shivers down her spine as she gulped.

    Yu Xi widened her eyes when she heard him and shook her head aggressively.

    "No-no." Gu Zhi raised his eyebrows in amusement. He stared down at her. His whole presence made her feel small.

    The man literally screamed of power and he was intimidating as hell.

    "Yu Xi." He called out. Her name rolled perfectly off his tongue. She couldn''t help but swarm with butterflies. Her name has never sounded so good in someone''s mouth before.

    Slowly her head looked up to meet his eyes and time seemed to still for her.

    "Don''t fall in love with me, little rabbit. The devil''s agent has no heart to love. I just came to destroy and kill."

    Yu Xi stiffened when she heard him. His voice sent chills throughout her body. Before she could reply his phone rang and he answered it.

    "What?!" He bellowed into the phone. Yu Xi couldn''t help but tremble.

    "Sir, Miss Feng is back in city S with her husband."

    The other person on the phone reported to Gu Zhi the moment the call was connected.

    Gu Zhi''s lips curved into a sinister smile as a bloodthirsty madness brewed in his eyes. Remembering the pain he had felt he couldn''t wait to rain the same torment on Feng Mei.

    "Alright, continue to monitor them and report what they are up to to me."

    "Okay Sir!" The man replied and with that Gu Zhi hung up the call.

    He turned to look at Yu Xi who was looking at him with fearced in her eyes and shed her a mirthless smile.

    "Do you want to hear a story?" Gu Zhi asked as he sat beside her on the bed. Without waiting for her reply he started,

    "Once upon a time there was an ugly and fat girl who was usually bullied by people because of her looks."

    Yu Xi looked at Gu Zhi and for some weird reason he looked so lonely and sad as if he has been abandoned by the whole world.

    "It wasn''t the girl''s fault to be born this way but well society is heartless. One day while she was being bullied a Prince Charming came and saved her. And just like any normal girl would, she fell in love with him."

    Gu Zhi lips curved into a sardonic smile as he continued.

    "Unfortunately the Prince Charming already had his princess who was beautiful and elegant so he rejected the ugly girl. The rejection drove the girl into madness since she had be extremely obsessed with the only one who gave her kindness.

    The girl''s big brother who had promised their parents who had died early that year to take care of his little sister couldn''t bear to see his sister like this so he promised her to avenge his sister."

    Yu Xi knitted her brows in confusion when she heard him.

    "Avenge who? His sister''s bullies?"

    Gu Zhi chuckled and shook his head.

    "No, the princess."

    "The princess? Why? What did she do? Is not her fault the princess didn''t like his sister right?"

    Yu Xi questioned Gu Zhi since what he was saying didn''t even make sense. Who does that?

    "No it''s wasn''t her fault. But who cares? It wasn''t the ugly girl''s fault to be born that way but society bullied her. Life isn''t fair little rabbit."

    Gu Zhi turned to Yu Xi as he said.

    "The guy promised his sister to remove any obstacles in her love life and the princess was the obstacles. That night that he made that promise, his sister wore a wedding gown and hung herself. When he found her it was toote. He saw a letter on the bed and it was from his sister "

    Gu Zhi took a deep breath,

    "Dear brother don''t cry. I''m going to marry my prince in the next life since you have promised to get rid of any obstacles for me. Remember your promise brother. I love you."

    The brother felt his heart crashing inside him. He had no one left and his life waspletely useless now. Even though his parents had left them an empire it couldn''tpare to his sister''s life.

    He got angry at the world and the people in it. So he had only one goal in mind, no matter the cost. Remove the obstacles in his sister''s happily ever after. So he got the princess and slowly broke her. Even though the Prince Charming killed him the damage was already done."

    Yu Xi shook her head and sighed.

    "The brother is more sick than the sister to be honest. Who does something like this? He should have helped his sister get better instead of promising her something so stupid. He is no different from his sister''s bullies!"

    Yu Xi ranted angrily, unfortunately she missed the emotions brewing in Gu Zhi''s eyes.

    "Me." Gu Zhi replied her.

    "What do you mean you-" Yu Xi widened his eyes when what he said finally registered in her head.

    "You¡­,so you''re the brother?!"

    Gu Zhi chuckled, "Yes."

    Yu Xi stood up from the bed and moved back in fright.

    "Then...how came you''re still alive if the prince killed you?"

    Gu Zhi chuckled, stood up and walked out of the room leaving Yu Xi.

    The moment he left the weak appearance of Yu Xi disappeared and a glint of light passed through her eyes.

    "Did you hear him?" She mumbled to no one in particr and the pendent around her neck glowed white.

 Chapter 275 Fallen out of love

    <h4>Chapter 275 Fallen out of love</h4>

    "Mom." Lei Zhao greeted his mother the moment he entered her office. His mother seemed to have lost weight these past few days. Even though she had make-up on it couldn''t hide the tiredness in her eyes.

    Lei Xiao Tong looked up from the folder she was holding and saw Lei Zhao.

    "Lei Zhao!" She said excitedly as she stood up form her chair and embraced her son in a bone crushing hug.

    She inhaled his scent as she pressed a kiss on her forehead. Ever since she nearly lost her son. She has be extremely protective of him and not seeing him for a few days had her heart in ripples.

    "Mom." Lei Zhao smiled and pouted.

    "I''m not a kid anymore mom."

    Lei Xiao Tong smack him on his head, "What do you mean you are not a kid anymore. You will always be a kid in my eyes."

    Lei Zhao rubbed his head and sat down in the chair in front of Lei Xiao Tong desk. The mother and son duo stared at each other for a while until Lei Zhao broke the silence.

    "How are you mom?"

    Lei Xiao Tong sighed and nodded.

    "Good. You? How is Yan Mei?"

    Thinking about his wife a warm smile made its way across Lei Zhao face.

    "She is good. Hopefully we solve everything quickly and focuses on having a family. I cannot wait for her to carry my children."

    Lei Xiao Tong smiled, "d you''re happy Lei Zhao. I thought I will never see you smile again after your brother died."

    Dead silence fell between after Lei Xiao Tong words. Even though it''s been more than a year since he dead. His brother was still a sour subject for him.

    Clearing his throatt, he nodded, "Yeah, me too. I really wish he was here to meet Yan Mei. He would have loved her."

    Lei Xiao Tong grabbed Lei Zhao''s hands and gave it a gentle squeeze.

    "I''m sure your brother is happy for you wherever he is."

    "Yeah. So, what did you find during your investigation?" Lei Zhao asked his mother as he changed the subject. He really didn''t want to talk about his brother right now.

    Lei Xiao Tong stood up and went to the safe in her office after entering the code the safe opened and removed a pen drive from it.

    "Okay so ording to my investigations five years ago, Feng Mei now called Yan Mei was married to Wang Lu. It was quite a sensation in City M since Wang Lu was one of the most sort after bachelors in the city. Coming from a middle-ss family with no name, Feng Mei was bullied by the media calling her all sort of names."

    Lei Zhao frowned as he listened to his mother. "Well, it seems Wang Lu''s mother didn''t like Yan Mei. ording to a maid who was working for them at that time, she would bully Feng Mei anytime that her son was not around."

    Lei Xiao Tong couldn''t exin her anger when she heard this. She really hopes she never meets this woman or she would make her regret ever hurting her precious daughter-inw.

    "Now I understand why XiaoMei was scared of me at first. She once had a disgusting mother-inw."

    Lei Zhao nodded, "I know. She had told me of her experience with her ex-husband and their marriage. I want to know how that video came about. Who are the people in the video?"

    Lei Zhao eyes met his mothers and they were swirling with so much emotions. He couldn''t help but panic.

    "She is not the person in the video right mom?" Lei Zhao questioned as his palms suddenly felt mmy.

    "No, of course it isn''t her."

    Lei Zhao let go of the air he didn''t even know he was holding.

    "Who is it mom?''

    Lei Xiao Tong stared at her son for a second.

    "What will you do if you find out that the people you trusted most are responsible for your biggest pain?"

    Lei Zhao scrunched his face in confusion at his mother''s words.

    "What do you mean, mom?"

    "I don''t know how you''re going to tell your wife the truth but here. Everything you want to know is here."

    Lei Zhao looked at the pen drive his mother has given and couldn''t help but have a bad feeling in his chest.

    "I know XiaoMei is a strong but she really doesn''t deserve this. After knowing about her past, I''m happy that she meets you son. Remember you got to treat that woman good. She deserves it for all those pain life had thrown at her. Pamper her and treat her like a queen or I''ming for you."

    Lei Zhao smiled at his mother words.

    "Mom, I''m your son. You should be on my side always." Lei Zhao bemoaned as a teasing gleam passed through his eyes.

    "Yes you''re. But the moment you brought that girl home she became part of the family and I''m not allowing anyone bully a family member. Not even my son."

    Lei Zhao broke into a big smile at his mother''s words. He knew if there was anyone, he can trust his wife with it was his mother.

    "Mom?" Lei Zhao called out his mother softly

    "What if one day I wake up and I have fallen out of love with her? What should I do?"

    Lei Xiao Tong probed her chin in her palm and looked at the ring on her hand.

    "Then you have to ask yourself why you fell in love with her in the first ce. Find all those little things that made you fell in love with her in the first ce. "

    Lei Zhao nodded and stood up.

    "Thank you, mom." He said as he nted a kiss on Lei Xiao Tong cheeks.

    "I will leave you to work. I''m sure the investigations had taken much of your time."

    "Alright. Remember whatever you find on that drive, know how to you will go about telling XiaoMei the truth."

    Lei Zhao nodded and left Lei Xiao Tong office.

 Chapter 276 Friendship goals

    <h4>Chapter 276 Friendship goals</h4>

    "Yan Mei!" Su Bei said excitedly as she pulled her friend into a hug.

    "I miss you too." Yan Mei chuckled as she hugged her good friend back. She knew these past few days have been crazy but with her friend and family by her side. She was happy.

    Su Bei pulled away and held Yan Mei''s hands. She looked at Yan Mei for a few seconds and smiled.

    "Is it me or you have grown more beautiful over these past few days!"

    Yan Mei giggled at her friend''s words, "Do you think so?"

    Su Bei nodded, "Yes you have to tell me your secret."

    Yan Mei smiled and moved closer to her friend.

    "Love is the secret." She whispered softly in Su Bei''s ears.

    "You.." Su Bei pushed her away as she scrunched her face.

    "No need to show off in front me."

    Yan Mei giggled and went to sit down at her desk.

    Today was her first appearance in thepany since the leakage of her video. Lei Zhao didn''t want her toe to work until they had solved the threats hiding in the shadows but she was a business woman and being a few days away from work was riling her up.

    They had argue over hering to work again but of course she won. That man loves her and will anything for her to be happy. Yan Mei thought with a smile on her face.

    At first Yan Mei thought she would see disgust in her employees eyes or suffer from their judging gazes but surprisingly they all seemed happy to see her.

    They even threw a wee party for her which was led by her friend, Su Bei.

    To say she was touched was an understatement. Yan Mei didn''t even know when she had formed such a bond with her employees. She thought she was the big bad wolf in their eyes. They really surprised her today.

    Five years ago she had nobody to defend her or believe in her but now she doesn''t only have a loving husband, a great family, or a crazy best friend. She also had family at her work ce too and their words of encouragement and telling her they believed in her really brought tears in her eyes.

    "So should I be expecting a mini you or Mr. Lei in a few weeks?"

    Su Bei sat in front of Yan Mei as she asked breaking her out of her thoughts. Yan Mei mind wandered to all the unprotected sex she had with Lei Zhao on the ind and a faint blush tainted her cheeks.

    "Oh my...are you blushing? MeiMei what perverted scenes are ying in your mind right now?"

    A grin erupted on Su Bei''s face as she teased her friend. She enjoyed spending time with her friend just goofing around. Su Bei couldn''t believe she nearly lost her friend because of her emotions.

    Suddenly her grin morphed into a sad frown.

    "Yan Mei.."

    "Hmm?" Yan Mei answered absentmindedly as she sent a text to Lei Zhao reminding him to eat and not to overwork.

    "Sorry.."

    Yan Mei stopped typing and looked up at Su Bei when she heard her.

    "What are you apologizing for?" Her brows knitted in confusion as she questioned Su Bei.

    "Because I''m a bad friend? When I saw the video I have to admit that I was hurt and jealous. You know how much I like Leng Shao and I -"

    Yan Mei sighed and grabbed Su Bei''s hand on the table.

    "Hey, it''s okay. Really. I understand how you feel. If I was your shoe I might have done the same thing or something worse. The most important thing is that we are together now. So tell me how are things with Leng Shao?"

    Silence ensued between them until Su Bei mumbled.

    "I like him. Really like him."

    Yan Mei arched her brows, "Do you?"

    "Yes." She replied confidently.

    "He is so handsome with his killer dimples. He is funny and such a gentleman.You know we just clicked."

    Yan Mei nodded and just as she was about to say something she heard Su Bei said something.

    "I think he is the one I have been waiting for all my life."

    "Are you sure?"

    Yan Mei asked after some time. Both of them were her friend and she really hoped they would end up together but she was also afraid of seeing one of them hurt.

    "I know we have only gone out once but...the moment he kissed me I saw a future with him. Is that crazy? If I have thousand thoughts a day nine hundred and ny-nine is about him. I don''t know¡­ I just-"

    She sighed as she covered her face with her palms. All of these feelings were new to her. It was scary at the same time soforting.

    "Leng Shao is such an amazing guy," Yan Mei said.

    "And if you like him, I think you should go for it. For him to kiss you? I think he likes you too so don''t hesitate. Go for it."

    Su Bei blushed, "Do you think so? I''m not crazy?"

    Yan Mei chuckled and nodded.

    "Yes I''m sure. Look at you. You''re beautiful, smart and the Vice President of the biggest jewelrypany in the country. He will be crazy not to. Also you can always ask him if he likes you."

    Su Bei widened her eyes when she heard Yan Mei.

    "No! I can''t. That''s embarrassing in the highest degree! What do you me to say? Yo Leng Shao I''m crazy about you that I can''t sleep so you like me too? If yes let''s get married. That''s totally weird."

    Yan Mei bursted out intoughter at the horrifying look on her friend''s face.

    "Well you will never know unless you ask."

    Su Bei blushed and nodded.

    "Yeah but can you ask for me?" She blinked innocently at Yan Mei as she made a cute face at her friend.

    "I''m a business woman Miss Su. What will I get in return?"

    "I will bake you your favorite cookies!"

    Yan Mei smiled and nodded in satisfaction.

    "Okay deal."

    Su Bei stood up excitedly and pressed a kiss on Yan Mei''s cheeks.

    "Eww¡­.go away"

    Su Bei and Yan Mei broke out into a pearl ofughed,

    "I love you too." Su Bei said.

 Chapter 277 Memories

    <h4>Chapter 277 Memories</h4>

    "Hey you¡­" Lei Zhao said pulling Yan Mei''s arms back so that she coulde crushing into his chest.

    "Lei Zhao." Yan Mei protested as her head collided with his muscr chest.

    "Where were you? Don''t you know that I miss you?" Yan Meiined. After she came back from work she realized Lei Zhao wasn''t in the house.

    "Sorry Wifey. After meeting mom, something came up. Have you eaten?"

    Lei Zhao said softly as he ced a kiss on her forehead.

    "Yes I have."

    Lei Zhao nodded and ruffled her hair.

    "Okay Good. I will go and take a shower."

    Lei Zhao said as he pulled away from her. Yan Mei grabbed his hand the moment he turned and raised her brows at him.

    "Hey, are you okay?" Yan Mei asked Lei Zhao. Even though he was still affectionate his eyes gave him away. He seemed to be in a big dilemma.

    Lei Zhao squeezed out a smile and nodded.

    "Yeah I''m fine."

    Yan Mei scrunched her face in worry and let him go.

    "I''m here for you, if you''re ready to talk."

    Guilt tugged at Lei Zhao''s heart when he heard his wife. After looking at the video his mother has given him, his heart couldn''t help but ache for her.

    He didn''t even know how to tell her the truth. One point he didn''t want to lie to her and he surely didn''t want to see her break down.

    "Lei Zhao¡­" her soothing voice snapped him out his thoughts.

    "I know. Will go take the shower."

    Yan Mei nodded and kissed his forehead.

    "I love you." She said smiling at him.

    "I love you more." Lei Zhao replied back and walked away before he would lose control and blurt everything out.

    After a few minutes, he walked out of the bathroom and came to find her lying on the bed reading a book.

    Without saying anything he changed into his pajamas and came to sleep beside her on the bed.

    Lei Zhaoid his head on her belly, his arms locked around her hips. Yan Mei smiled and put down the book she was reading.

    She wrapped her hands around him, caressing his hair.

    "I''m here." She kissed his hair and slid her fingers into it.

    Yan Mei knew something was definitely bothering Lei Zhao. But it was okay, she wouldn''t pressure him to tell her once he is ready he will definitely tell her.

    She rocked him softly as she hummed a soft melody.

    "How was your friend like?"

    Lei Zhao finally spoke, breaking the warm silence between them.

    "My friend? Who are you talking about?" Yan Mei asked as her face scrunched into confusion.

    "Your best friend-when you''re in the city M¡ªFu Xin." Lei Zhao exined.

    "Oh." Yan Mei smiled as she thought about her friend. Even though it''s been years since she died. Her memories only brought a smile on Yan Mei''s face. She knew her friend was suffering with her sickness and death was the end of her sufferings.

    "She was like a sister to me. No more than a sister. She was super crazy and I trusted her with my life. Yeah we were that close."

    Yan Mei chuckled, a carefreeughter.

    "Funny thing is I don''t even remember how we became that close! I guess that''s the most beautiful thing about rtionships. You don''t know how it even started, just the beautiful memories remain."

    Lei Zhao''s face morphed into a worried frown. Fortunately Yan Mei didn''t notice it. It seems his wife really held her friend in such a high esteem.

    Will the truth crumble down the good memories she has of her dead friend?

    "Fu Xin, I couldn''t even cry when I heard she was dead because she warned me not to. She said, ``don''t you dare cry when I die, Feng Mei or my ghost will haunt you."

    Yan Mei''s voice snapped Lei Zhao out of his thoughts. He noticed the grief in his wife''s voice and grabbed her hand, giving it a small squeeze.

    "I wish she was here to meet you. She never really liked Wang Lu. She always thought I was better off with someone else."

    Lei Zhao froze when he heard Yan Mei.

    "Why didn''t she like him?"

    Yan Mei snorted and shrugged."I guess she saw him for who he really is. I was blinded by love. Also even though I never told her about Wang Lu''s mom abuse I''m sure she knew it.

    It made her hate him more. ording to her, if he loved me he wouldn''t let his mom abuse me.But it wasn''t his fault, he didn''t know."

    Lei Zhao slowly pulled away and looked at her face. Strands of her hair were stuck on his chest and a few were pasted on the side of her face.

    He gently sorted those hair from her face. "Are you okay?" He said as he cupped her face.

    "Yes, at first when I talked about those memories all I felt was pain but now, it doesn''t hurt anymore. The pain is still there yes but I''m fine talking about it. "

    Lei Zhao nodded and pressed a quick kiss on her lips .

    "How are you?" Yan Mei asked back.

    Lei Zhao smiled and ced his head back on her stomach.

    "Go-"

    The sound of say you won''t let go ringing in the bedroom interrupted Lei Zhao.

    He looked up at her and smirked.

    "What? It''s now my favorite song."

    Lei Zhao chuckled a realugh since he came home tonight and nodded.

    Yan Mei looked at the caller ID and saw it was Leng Zhao''s mom. She knitted her brows and answered the call.

    "Auntie Leng." Lei Zhao stiffened when he heard her. ''Was it Leng Shao''s mother?''

    He doesn''t know what she said on the line but he saw the smile hanging on his wife''s lips.

    "Yes. I''m sure that will be fine by him. Okay see you, tomorrow. Goodnight."

    Yan Mei hung up the call and with a smile ced it down.

    "She said she will being over with Leng Shao tomorrow for dinner. Is it okay with you? Leng Shao is like a brother to me and I know he must be feeling guilty over the video. So-"

    "It''s fine by me." Lei Zhao hurriedly interrupted her. How can he let go of the opportunity to question the one person who has all the answers he is looking for.

    He really cannot wait for tomorrow. Tomorrow everything will finally be revealed.

 Chapter 278 Truth unfold(1)

    <h4>Chapter 278 Truth unfold(1)</h4>

    Leng Shao''s rm went off and he looked towards the window to see light pecking through the blinds.

    He grunted as he looked at his phone. He had a meeting at eleven am in the morning and it was nine o''clock already.

    He kicked off his covers and walked towards his bathroom to freshen up. After he had finished bathing and put on his suit, he had about forty mini left.

    He headed to the kitchen to eat breakfast. He stopped in his tracks the moment he reached the kitchen as he saw his mother leaning over his kitchen counter.

    ''When did shee?''

    "Mom?" Leng Shao called out his mother as he strolled into the kitchen.

    "Good morning, son." Mrs. Leng turned, looking at her son with a soft smile on her face.

    "When did youe?" Leng Shao asked as he opened the fridge, looking for something to eat. His cook had taken a leave since her son was sick, so he was stuck with junk food until shees back.

    "Ohst night. I was waiting for you but you weren''ting so I went to sleep." Mrs. Leng exined.

    "Do you want some eggs?" Mrs. Leng asked her son.

    Leng Shao looked at his mother and raised his brows.

    "Are you trying to murder me this early morning?"

    Leng Shao chuckled as he made an oatmeal around his mother. His mother was a terrible cook. He remembers the first time his mother cooked for him. He had ended up at the hospital.

    Mrs. Leng rolled her eyes as her lips stretched into a smile.

    "How was workst night? You got homete." She said as she took a sip of her coffee.

    "Oh, it was okay. My stocks fell after the leakage of the video but now everything is okay. Some news outlet issued a statement and proofs that the video was released by a rival of Yan Mei.

    Leng Shao exined as he stuck a spoonful of oatmeal in his mouth.

    "That''s good." She breathed a sigh of relief as an unknown glint passed through her eyes.

    "I called Feng Meist night and told her we will being for dinner with her tonight."

    Leng Shao paused when he heard his mother and looked up at her. Actually he was nning on avoiding Yan Mei until he had proof of those who hurt her but his mother called her and schedule a dinner?

    "D-did she agree?" Leng Shao swallowed as he asked.

    "Of course, she agreed. She was happy to hear from me." Mrs. Leng gave her son a smile as she said.

    "But mom-"

    "I know you''re worried about her after the video. But you shouldn''t let such a thing destroy your friendship."

    Leng Shao shook his head helplessly and sighed.

    "Alright. I''m going to work." He checked his watch and stood up. He knew once his mother has made up her mind, nothing can change it.

    "Be home early for the dinner." She muttered.

    "Okay." Leng Shao said and gave her a peck on the check before heading out.

    As he drove to work, Su Bei called him and they made small talk and finished their conversation before he pulled into the parking lot.

    "Okay, princess. I will see you soon." Leng Shao chuckled as he hung up the call. His rtionship with Su Bei was going so well. They will talk on the phone anytime they got. And those moments were his favorite time of the day. To hear his princess voice.

    With a smile on his face, he got down from his car and strolled towards hispany.

    *********

    "How do I look?" Yan Mei asked Lei Zhao as she looked at herself in the mirror. She was wearing this pinkcey dress with her hair pulled in a ponytail.

    "You look beautiful darling. Now I''m thinking whether we should call the Lengs that you''re sick so that I can rip this dress of you."

    Lei Zhao said as he pulled Yan Mei into his arms, wrapping his hands around her waist.

    Yan Mei yfully smack his arms. "Is sex the only thing you think about all the time?"

    Lei Zhao grinned as her as his hands found her ass giving it a hard squeeze.

    "Of course-"

    The sound of their door ringing interrupted him. Yan Mei pulled away from Lei Zhao and took a deep breath to calm her raging hormones down.

    "They are here. I will go get the door." She pressed a quick kiss on Lei Zhao''s lips and went to open the door.

    "Auntie." Yan Mei greeted Mrs. Leng as the woman pulled her into a hug.

    "Yan Mei. How are you doing?"

    Yan Mei smiled and pulled away from the old woman.

    "I''m good. How are you?"

    "I''m fine. Here I brought you chocte."

    Yan Mei smiled, "Thank you. Pleasee in."

    Mrs. Leng walked inside the house leaving Yan Mei and Leng Shao at the door.

    "Hey." Leng Shao said awkwardly as he stuck his hands in his jackets pocket.

    Yan Mei snorted at his awkwardness as a teasing glint passed through her eyes.

    She pulled Leng Shao into a hug as she chuckled.

    "You''re cute when you''re nervous." Yan Meimented.

    Leng Shao pulled back when he heard someone clearing his throat.

    He saw Lei Zhao ring at him. Leng Shao nodded at him as a greeting. Sensing the tension between the two men, Yan Mei rolled her eyes.

    "Come in. Let''s eat."

    The dinner was filled withughter as Mrs. Leng share funny stories about how Yan Mei will steal the cookies in her kitchen. And their memories in City M.

    Lei Zhao watched as Mrs. Leng personally fed his wife from her spoon and a glint passed through his eyes.

    He could see how much the woman loved Yan Mei so why did she do what she did five years ago? Even though he had a rough idea, he needed answers and he needed them now.

    After the dinner, they sat on the balcony and talk about things under the weather. Yan Mei and Leng Shao were back to being close friends as they teased each other non stop.

    "Lei Zhao are you okay?" Yan Mei whispered in Lei Zhao''s ears since he was awfully quiet. It seems something was weighing on his mind.

    "Yes. I''m fine." He smiled at her and ruffled her hair.

    "Mrs. Leng can I discuss something with you privately?" Lei Zhao said out of the blue.

    Silence ensued as they all turned to look at him. They clearly wasn''t expecting that. Mrs. Leng heart skipped a beat as her eyes met Lei Zhao''s.

    For some weird reason she couldn''t help but feel like the young man could see through her. Did he find out what she did years ago? No-no she made sure not to leave any clues behind.

    Also, it was such a long time ago.

    Squeezing out a smile, she nodded.

    "Okay."

    Yan Mei raised her brows at Lei Zhao but he just pressed a kiss on her forehead.

    "I will be right back. Don''t worry."

    Yan Mei nodded and watched as Lei Zhao and Mrs. Leng walked towards the study room.

    She looked at Leng but he just shrugged telling her he knows nothing.

    Yan Mei sighed. Lei Zhao had been behaving strange ever since theye back from their vacation. She hopes everything is okay.

 Chapter 279 Truth unfold(2)

    <h4>Chapter 279 Truth unfold(2)</h4>

    Dead silence ensued in the quiet study room as Lei Zhao''s eyes bored into Mrs. Leng''s. Her nerves tingled as his intense gaze made her wonder what he wanted to talk about with her.

    Fidgeting, she felt like her heartbeat was in her head. Suddenly Lei Zhao''s lips curved into an arc when he saw how stiff and ufortable the woman was.

    "Sorry for calling you to discuss some private matters but I have been investigating what happened to my wife five years ago and I found some interesting information. I was hoping you could help me figure something out. "

    Mrs. Leng squinted her eyes at Lei Zhao.

    "My help?"

    "Yes, since you knew my wife back then there is no better person to ask for help.

    Lei Zhao responded in a carefree tone but if one listened closely you could hear the sarcasm in his voice.

    Even though his lips were curved into a smile like arc, his eyes gave no room for arguments.

    Either she helped him answer his questions freely or he would use force.

    Something flickered in her eyes as her heart skipped a beat. At the back of her mind, voices whispered to her to be be careful of her words. The man in front of her cannot be underestimated.

    "If I can help you with your investigations I will dly cooperate. After all, little Mei is like a daughter to me." She said with a small smile on her face.

    Lei Zhao eyes glint with a sardonic smile as he leaned in his chair. He entered a series of words on hisptop as he gently pushed it to Mrs. Leng.

    "Please here."

    Doubt shed in Mrs.Leng''s eyes.

    ''Why was he giving her this?''

    Mrs. Leng swallowed as she saw the familiar faces in the video. She sat in a daze as a series of other videos followed.

    She started hyperventting as frenzied thoughts assaulted her mind. Droplets of perspiration appeared on her forehead as her eyes widened in horror as they flickered from side to side as they searched for an escaped route.

    Never did she think her sins would be presented to her like this one day. Lei Zhao watched in amusement as he saw the expressions of shock and fear sh across Mrs. Leng.

    "How-where-who-what"

    She muttered incoherent words as her heart started pounding rapidly. She stood up clearly agitated.

    "What is the meaning of this?!" She bellowed, abruptly closing theptop.

    "I should be the one asking you that question." Lei Zhao said calmly with his face nk. He stood up from his chair and strolledzily towards Mrs Leng.

    Mrs. Leng stared at him, her cheeks bright red with humiliation.

    Her eyes met Lei Zhao''s eyes as her expression grew more horrified. She could feel pure hatred flowing from the man as he red at her.

    "She trusted you, treated you like her mother but you¡­..deceitful¡­.traitorous¡ª

    Mrs. Leng shook her head slowly. A gesture of how ashamed she was. A single tear escaped her eyes as she looked away.

    "Please let me exin!" She begged.

    "What do you want to exin? That you manipted her sick friend into posing like her so that Wang Lu will think she was cheating on him? That you hired someone to create a hyper-realistic mask with Yan Mei and your son''s face so that Fu Xin¡ªYan Mei''s best friend and her boyfriend can carry on the act?

    You know how much Fu Xin loved Yan Mei like a sister so you brainwashed her into thinking Wang Lu didn''t love her and was using her friend so Yan Mei was better off with your son! Fu Xin being sick and knowing she was dying agreed because she thought her friend was better off with the gentle and kind Leng Shao once she is no more. Such a perfect n!

    Lei Zhao chuckled humorlessly. "You knew Wang Lu''s mother used to bully Yan Mei and didn''t want her son with Yan Mei so she will be the first suspect but you along was the master nner! But my question is why though? Is it because you wanted your son to have the woman he loves or because of something else?"

    Mrs. Leng covered her face with her hand and began to cry.

    "You will never understand. We did it for her! She was never happy in that marriage. She was young and naive so she thought she was in love but at times, love is not enough to make a marriage work.

    Her mother-inw hated her guts! That bitch would bully my little Mei any chance she got. Why should she be with a man who can''t even protect her from his poor excuse of a mother!

    That man was obsessed with her, there is no way he would let her go. So we nned this. She was too young to waste her youth away. She deserved someone better! She deserved my son who loved her more than his life!

    Sometimes you have to make the hardest choices to protect the people close to you and this was one of those moments.

    Even though Fu Xin knew that her best friend would hate her forever after knowing the truth, she still went along with the n because she knew at least her best friend will be well loved and cared for when she is not there by me and my son!"

    Lei Zhao gritted his teeth as his blood began to boil.

    "You have a lot of nerve, hailing yourself like you did her a favor. But you know what?"

    Lei Zhao let out a smallugh, "You had no right to decide for her. You should have talked to her ask for her consent first because it involved her! You people not only destroyed her marriage that day. You killled her baby too. You created a broken woman locked with pain and sadness."

    Mrs. Leng stiffened when she heard Lei Zhao. "W-what¡ª-"

    Suddenly a sob sounded in the room. Lei Zhao stiffened since he knew that sound too well. He lifted his eyes and he met a pair swimming with horror and shock.

    Lei Zhao felt his heart crushing as she stared at him, tears welling in her eyes.

    Yan Mei¡­..

 Chapter 280 Truth unfold(3)

    <h4>Chapter 280 Truth unfold(3)</h4>

    Yan Mei stared at the door as the words of Lei Zhao kept ringing in her ears. Her brain stuttered for a moment as every part of her body went on a pause while her thoughts caught up.

    "You manipted her best friend¡­.."

    She stood there in a trance as her body forced her to listen to the cruel truth. As they say, truth hurts. Her heart smashed into pieces as the words of Lei Zhao echoed like a sad melody in her ears.

    Her fists clenched at her side as the dull ache in her heart gradually spread to every fiber of her body. She felt like her heart was being ripped out, it was gut wrenching, like a p in the face. And when she thought it couldn''t get any worse she heard the angry roar of Mrs. Leng.

    "She deserves someone better! She deserved my son who loved her more than his life!"

    Yan Mei blinked as the realisation struck her like a bolt and she just stood there, stupefied by the words said by Mrs. Leng.

    Her son¡­

    Leng Shao loved her¡­.

    All these years she thought he treated her so well because he saw her like his sister.

    All these years they have all lied to her. Why does everyone keep lying to her?

    Her heart pounded out of shock and her clenched palms became mmy.

    How can Mrs. Leng still im that she loved her and did all of this for her? Doesn''t she feel guilty anytime she looks at her in the eyes andughs with her?

    A sob escaped from her lips as the people in the room finally noticed her.

    "Yan Mei¡­" Lei Zhao called out softly even though his voice was shaking with panic. The hurt and broken fragments of pain in her eyes made his heart crushed.

    Mrs. Leng eyes fell on Yan Mei standing at the door and she stilled. Yan Mei stared right back at her as her gaze moved between Mrs. Leng and Lei Zhao.

    Mrs. Leng''s expression grew more horrified looking at the pain brewing in her eyes.

    "Please¡­..say something." Lei Zhao eyes searched her.

    Yan Mei wanted to scream, shout and ask how? why? But as if her body had shut down, she couldn''t form any words.

    All the vocabry in her brain seems to shut down. So she did what she thought was best. She ran.

    "Yan Mei¡­" Leng Shao called out panicking when he saw Yan Mei running downstairs with tears on her face. But before he could ask anything she had run past him and had bolted out of the house.

    He saw Lei Zhao too rushing after Yan Mei and frowned.

    ''What was going on?''

    Yan Mei doesn''t know how long she ran or where she was even going. Maybe she was a coward but she really didn''t want to face the truth. At least not now. Her tears were falling non stop the moment she ran out of the house and people were giving her concerned looks but she didn''t really care.

    She stopped when her breathing became noticeably painful. She drew in a sharp breath as thunder rolled and a small droplet of water started to pour out .

    Yan Meiughed out manically. The rain was really her nemesis. She looked up at the sky

    as the rain heavily dotted her face. Memories began to shed across her eyes as her lips arced into a depressing smile.

    "Feng Mei, you''re my best friend I will never hurt you! I will personally murder anyone who dares to even hurt a strand of your hair."

    "Little Mei, eat more. I made them prepared just for you. You''re like a daughter to me and my daughter deserves nothing but the best."

    "I love you¡­..as a sister of course and I will always be there for you."

    Yan Mei cringed at the echoes of the fake lies that they had fed to her. She squeezed closed her eyelids and behind them an image of her lying across the street and begging people to save her child appeared.

    Tears rolled down her cheeks as her heart broke into million pieces thinking about her poor baby who lost her life because of the betrayals of the people she trusted the most.

    Her poor baby.....

    Suddenly the sound of someone calling her broke through the rain.

    "Yan Mei¡­"

    She opened her eyes and saw Lei Zhao standing some few meters away from her.

    It seems he had been waiting for awhile.

    He slowly took a step towards her as if he was afraid she would disappear again from his sight.

    "Please don''t run away from me. Let me share you tears with you. If I could take it all and rece it with a smile I will do it."

    Lei Zhao murmured as he stared at her. There was dullness about her. Her usually confident aura was reced byplete sadness.

    His wife¡­

    His poor wife¡­

    Yan Mei just stood there staring at the man she had grown to love in these short months. She stared up at his brown orbs and the amount of love flowing inside them made her heart ache even more.

    She felt truly broken today, broken to the extent that she doesn''t think Lei Zhao can even mend her together.

    Her dull eyes searched his eyes as the rain soaked both of them. His eyes carried so much love and pain¡ªpain for her. She knows seeing her like this again after what they had gone through together broke him.

    Seeing that she wouldn''t run again. Lei Zhao ran towards her and pulled her into his chest. The moment his scent filled her nostril she broke into hysterical sobs. All the strength she had left finally left her.

    "Sshs¡­.. I have got you wifey." Lei Zhao whispered softly as he held her tight.

    He whispered soft words offort to her as he ced a kiss on her hair. He just held her as she screamed out all her grievances and pain into the pouring rain.

 Chapter 281 A motherâ€™s love

    <h4>Chapter 281 A mother¡¯s love</h4>

    Leng Shao rushed to the study room where his mother had left with Lei Zhao. The door was opened ajar and his mother was sitting on the floor with tears tickling on her face.

    "Mom!" He called out as he rushed towards her. Crouching beside her on the floor he used his finger to wipe the tears under her eyes.

    "Mom¡ªwhy are you crying? Are you okay?"

    Mrs. Leng shook her head as she bowed her down in shame. After the truth came out she felt utterly ashamed to even look at her son in the eyes.

    Everything she did was for him. Seeing her son looking so broken that day made her heart ache so she did what any mother will do. Putting the happiness of her son first.

    ~FLASHBACK~

    Leng Shao gulped down the beer in his hands and let out a series of coughs as the bitter taste spread to the back of his throat. He has always hated the bitter taste of beer but today he wanted to drink away his sorrows.

    No one will understand how it feels to love someone so deeply but the person doesn''t even know how you feel about them. Worse the feeling of seeing the woman you love in your best friend''s arms. To give them your blessings and smile like your heart isn''t breaking into a million pieces.

    Leng Shao''s lips curved into a self depreciating smile as an image of Yan Mei smiling shed through his eyes.

    She was so beautiful when she smiled. The way her eyes lit up anytime she talked about art made his heart flutter and his stomach swarm with butterflies.

    Within minutes his head was spinning and beautiful illusions with him being with Yan Mei was assaulting his mind.

    They were walking together, hand in hand on the beach. Watching the sunset. A soft smile spilled form his lips at the beautiful image.

    He heard his bedroom door opening and he frowned as the sound of the door opening destroyed his imaginations.

    "Leng Shao!" Mrs. Leng screamed out in panic when she saw her son sitting on the floor of his bedroom with his back against his bed, draping his elbows loosely over his knees as he stared hard at the wall. Bottles of beerid down around him.

    Mrs. Leng knew how much her son hated alcohol so why was he drinking?

    "Leng Shao what happened? Why are you drinking?" Mrs. Leng asked as her face scrunched in confusion.

    Leng Shao looked at his mother and he chuckled hysterically. He tried to stand up from the floor but he slipped and fell down.

    "Mom! Where have you been? I miss you."

    "Leng Shao!" Mrs. Leng quickly grabbed him to help him. She helped him sit again on the floor.

    "What happened? Did something bad happen to Feng Mei?"

    The moment Leng Shao heard her name, he broke out into tears. All the emotions he had bottled up finally exploded.

    Mrs. Leng widened her eyes in surprise at his sudden outburst. Never has she seen her son cry like this. She sat beside him on the floor without saying anything as she ced Leng Shao''s head on her shoulder. Leng Shao''s shoulders trembled as tears of pain racked through him.

    It was painful for Mrs. Leng to see her son like this. All she could do was embrace him and let the torrent of his tears soak through her dress.

    She could feel her son clenched his fists as he silently screamed, suffocating with each breath he took. She ran her fingers through his hair, time and time again, in an attempt to calm him down.

    "I love her mom¡ªI just¡ª" Leng Shao suddenly mummered, causing Mrs. Leng to stiffened. She didn''t even have to ask who her son was talking about because she knew. She has always known about his feelings for Feng Mei. Too bad that girl is with Wang Lu.

    "I know I shouldn''t¡ªWang Lu is like a brother to me but I can''t help it. I¡ªI why did it have to be her? Why did my heart have to beat for the one person who will never be mine?"

    "Leng Shao¡­."

    "Don''t¡­. you don''t fucking know how it feels to love someone who will never be yours!" He bellowed as he removed his head from his mother''s shoulder. He chuckled,

    "The moment I knew she was with Wang Lu I promised myself not to think about her again but guess what?" He paused

    "I failed. I find myself breaking that promise every single day. I always wake up imagining her by my side. Seeing her smiling warmly at me with love in her eyes but then reality kicks in as my palms touches the soft sheet then I realize I''m all alone. Lonely and empty."

    He sniffled quietly as he wiped away his tears.

    "I fought with myself to forget about her but anytime I see her, my heart betrays me. It squeals in happiness as she smiles at me. So I did what I thought was best because I''m afraid people are going to judge me. I love her in silence while I''m bleeding inside. I look at myself everyday in the mirror and ask myself when I''m going to let go of this hopeless unrequited love? I know I have to. But it''s so damn hard!"

    Not able to hold the heartbreak no longer he fell to the floor in a disheveled heap as his grief poured out in a flood of uncontroble tears.

    Mrs. Leng watched her son with pain in her eyes. She couldn''t handle seeing her precious son like this. She had to do something but what?

    She hesitated for a minute as she ced aforting hand on his shoulder.

    "Don''t worry son. You will find someone else. And she will love you too." Mrs. Lengforted Leng Shao.

    "But I don''t want anyone else. I-I just want her mom."

    Mrs. Leng heard her son and a glint of light passed through her eyes.

 Chapter 282 A sonâ€™s misery

    <h4>Chapter 282 A son¡¯s misery</h4>

    Frustration and confusion surged through Leng Shao. Why was everyone crying? It''s like he is the only one being kept in the dark and he hated that feeling.

    "I''m sorry son." His mother''s pained voice snapped him out of his stupor. He knitted his brows together and caressed her cheeks.

    "Mom, why are you apologizing? Tell me what is wrong. Did Mr. Lei hurt you?"

    Leng Shao demanded as irritation surged inside him.

    "Nono¡­"Mrs Leng shook her aggressively.

    "I-I..."

    "What! Why are you so scared to talk to me? You can''t even look at me in the eyes."

    "I-I can''t." Her voice cracked and she shook her head.

    "What do you mean, you can''t?" Leng Shao asked.

    "I can''t tell you." She whispered as tears fell out of her eyes.

    "Mom-" Mrs. Leng shook her head and looked at her hands without answering.

    "Damn it mom!" He yelled.

    Tears kept falling as she remained quiet. Leng Shao racked his hand through hair as he let out a frustrated sigh.

    He paused when he saw aptop on the table. For some unknown reasons, his guts were telling him to check it out. Leng Shao has always believed in his guts.

    Mrs. Leng followed Leng Shao''s gaze and saw him staring at theptop. Her heart raced out of her chest and before she could stop Leng Shao, he was already at the table.

    Leng Shao saw a paused video on theptop and clicked on the y button. Mrs. Leng watched her son''s expression move from confusion to anger.

    That is it. It seems she had no choice but to tell her son the truth. But she was afraid that he would hate her. For what seems like forever but a few minutes, she heard Leng Shao''s voice.

    "Mom¡ªwhat is this?" Mrs. Leng flinched and kept looking down. She was afraid to see her son''s eyes gleaming with disgust for her.

    "You...tell me it is not true. Please." Tears escaped from his eyes.

    A great sob escaped Mrs. Leng and she covered her face with her shaking hands.

    "I''m sorry. I did it for you!" Mrs. Leng bellowed

    Leng Shao stiffened when he heard his mother.

    "The video that was leaked, I created it. I couldn''t bear to see you suffer so I was looking for a way to help when a man approached me at the cafe one rainy day.

    I had no idea who he was but he chatted with me and asked me what was wrong, I told him everything and he gave me the best idea.

    All I had to do was convince Fu Xin and then no one would get hurt. It was a win win situation for everyone."

    Mrs. Leng weakly confessed.

    Silence ensued in the room after her revtion. Mrs. Leng slowly raised her head to look at her son.

    Leng Shao shook his head in denial. He felt his fragile heart slowly cracking as his vision became blurry.

    Mrs. Leng stood up from the floor and made her way to him. She cupped his face in her hands.

    "I love you, I couldn''t bear to see you cry that day. I wanted to do something for me to ease your pain so when the man approached me and gave the best idea I quickly took it." A sob escaped Mrs. Leng said as she covered hers over her lips.

    "Nothing excuses the fact that I hid this from you. I''m so sorry."

    Leng Shao pulled away from his mother and the pain in his eyes cut deep inside her soul. He moved to punch a hole into the wall before tugging at the roots of his hair.

    He began making his way out of the house and his mother chased after him. She caught up at him at the entrance and he stopped, turning to look at her.

    "Please¡­.just stay away from me." Leng Shao said in ire.

    "Leng Shao, I did it for you. Anybody can hate me but not you!"

    "You did it for me?! You know how much she means to me mom. I will never to snatch her happiness away from her for my own selfish reasons. I thought you knew me better than that!"

    "Leng Shao-" Mrs. Leng pressed her lips together as she wanted to say more but seeing the pain in her son''s eyes made her soul crushed.

    "I''m sorry-"

    "Sorry? I thought I knew you better mom but you''re no different from that vile woman who used to bully Yan Mei."

    Leng Shao closed the door and stepped into the rain which perfectly described his mood at the moment. Gloomy, sad and dark.

    Empty minded, Leng Shao felt his eyes watering at the thought of him being the reason for Yan Mei''s pain. If he knew his love will cause her this huge amount of pain he would have never fallen in love with her.

    He knew he had no control over his heart but he would have tried harder to stop loving her earlier. He wanted to be the one to wipe her tears but instead he became the one who caused them.

    He got inside his car and speed off. Leng Shao had no idea where he was going or how he even got there.

    The world zoom out and he was left with his thoughts alone. He finally found himself parked at a familiar street. He hit his steering wheel with his hands as he tried to soothe his raging heart.

    Opening the door, he strolled in the rain towards Su Bei''s house. He had no idea why he was even here or why he came here. But for some reason he wanted to see her. He had no one to turn to except her. The woman he just met a couple of weeks ago was now his only source of strength.

    He knocked on the door. Within a second, the door opened and Su Bei stood before him. She took in his state and her lips parted. Before she could uttered a word he flung himself into her.

 Chapter 283 Stay

    <h4>Chapter 283 Stay</h4>

    Su Bei was shock to say the least. She didn''t expect to see Leng Shao standing in front of her house at this time of the day. His eyes were puffy which clearly shows he had been crying and his clothes were soaked.

    She had so many questions but she knew better than to bombard him with it. She just allowed him to hug her until he finally pulled away from her.

    Leng Shao sniffled softly as he pulled away.

    "I-I I''m so sorry. I just¡­." Leng Shao awkwardly trailed off.

    "It''s okay. Come on in." Su Bei gave him a reassuring smile. She held his hand and led him to the kitchen.

    Leng Shao did not protest, he quietly followed her. He sneezed out loudly.

    "Bless you." Su Bei chuckled softly.

    "Wait, let me prepare a hot shower for you." Without waiting for his answer, she rushed to the bathroom leaving Leng Shao alone to his thoughts.

    A few minutester, Su Bei came to find Leng Shao with his head bowed. He seemed to be in a deep thought. His shoulders were slumped like he had been abandoned by the whole world.

    Leng Shao sighed deeply. None of everything that had happened made sense and he regretted with every fiber the words he said to his mother but he felt so stupefied and overwhelmed with emotions that those words just rolled of his tongue.

    "Are you alright?" Su Bei asked reaching for his hand. Leng Shao allowed her to entangle her fingers with his. He looked up at her and gave her a small smile, nodding.

    "Good,e let me show you the bathroom. We will talk after you''re done."

    Leng Shao stiffened but he nodded as he made his way to the bathroom.

    Fifteen minutester, Leng Shao walked in at the kitchen wearing the baggy clothes that SU Bei had left in the bathroom for her.

    Su Bei shed him a smile, "would you like something to drink?" She asked.

    Leng Shao lowered himself down at the stool as he gazed at her.

    "Tea please."

    Su Bei nodded her head and found herself towards the cupboard.

    "Since you have a cold, I will prepare ginger tea for you. I hope that is okay with you."

    "Yeah,"

    After preparing a cup of ginger tea, Su Bei moved towards him, lowering herself down onto the stool beside him handing him the cup.

    "Thank you, Su Bei."

    Su Bei watched as he brought the cup to his lips and took a sip before settling it down the table and wrapping his hands around it.

    He never met her eyes as he stared ascendingly at his tea.

    Even though Su Bei didn''t want to bombard him with questions, she wanted to know what was bothering him. She wanted to help him, even though she has no idea how. She heard him sniffled again, without saying anything she stood up and retrieve a bottle of Tylenol from the cupboard, along with a ss of water.

    Leng Shao muttered thank you and took the medicine. After he finished, she took the cups away and came to stand in front of him. cing afortable hand on his shoulders, "Do you want to talk about it?"

    Leng Shao slowly looked up from the titled floor and nodded softly.

    Su Bei smiled and stretched out her hands at him. Leng Shao stared at her for a few seconds before taking her hand. Su Bei led him to her room. Her mother was sleeping and she didn''t want to disturb her.

    Su Bei lowered herself down onto the bed as she folded her legs under her butt. She patted a space on the bed and Leng Shao sat beside her on the bed.

    Su Bei didn''t push him as they both sat in silence. When she thought he wasn''t going to say anything, he finally spoke.

    "Remember the video that was leaked at the lunch?" Leng Shao mumbled.

    Su Bei nodded as her brows knitted together.

    "Well¡­. tonight, I found out who created that video." Leng Shao paused as he stared at his hands.

    "My mother¡­. she was the one who created that video." Leng Shao stopped talking and Su Bei froze. She gasped and widened her eyes in shock as she let his words register in.

    His mother was the one who created that video. But why? How?

    "She said she did it for me. She¡ªI and it''s all my fault Su Bei. My mother had this crazy idea of helping me get Feng Mei because she couldn''t bear to see me suffer. So she let people act like me and Yan Mei and recorded it. In case Wang Lu didn''te ording to her n she would send the video to him.

    Leng Shao said as tears stung his eyes, "I¡­I can''t believe I''m the reason for her pain. I havepletely destroy our friendship. I-I don''t think I can even face her ever again. She must probably hate me." Leng Shao bbered out.

    Without thinking, Su Bei grabbed his arms and pulled him into a hug. Tears rolled down her cheeks as he began to sob, his body racking aginst hers as he pressed his head against the nape of her neck, hugging her tighter.

    "I''m sorry Leng Shao. Being betrayed by your mother must be horrible. I can''t just imagine¡­."

    Su Bei can''t imagine the heart ache her friend must be going through tonight. Hopefully her husband is with her. To be betrayed by the people you trusted the most must be really awful.

    "it''s okay. You can let everything out." Su Bei muttered to him reassuring,

    "I''m sure, Yan Mei wouldn''t me you for something you had no control over. You can talk to her and exin your side of the story to her."

    Leng Shao pulled away from Su Bei and gazed at her. "Do you think she would even listen to me?"

    Su Bei cupped his cheeks and smile at him, "Yes she will. Knowing Yan Mei, she would not let something like this destroy your friendship."

    Leng Shao wiped his tears and gave Su Bei a smile. "Sorry abouting here. I had no where to go and no one to vent to. I should go it''s gettingte."

    Leng Shao stood up to leave but the moment he turned, Su Bei grabbed his hand,

    "Stay."

 Chapter 284 A husbandâ€™s guilt

    <h4>Chapter 284 A husband''s guilt</h4>

    Feng Mei kept running, her feet pounding on the pavement frantic with the need to escape. She didn''t look back, there was nothing to look back to, her safe ce was not behind her, her safe ce was nowhere.

    People flickered around her, like image disys that barely registered in her mind as she raced past them spurred on by the blossoming pain in her chest.

    Instinctively, her hand strayed to her belly, to reassure her that everything was fine, that everything was going to be alright.

    ''How can everything be alright if I''m running from something and running towards nothing?''

    The question flitted through her mind before being pushed aside by the urgent need to keep running, to keep moving, to go far away.

    The muttered words swelled until it changed from passingments to a single uproar that kept saying two words. ''gold-digging whore''

    The crowd on the sidewalk immediately began to move heading straight for her, crowding her, jostling her, and tripping her until every forward step she took was a hard-worn battle between bodies that were crowding her.

    Feng Mei burst out from among them, across the road, anything to get away. She didn''t hear the screech until it is toote, the car almost upon her. The m of the brakes was almost as futile as the hand she threw up to protect herself.

    The car ms into her with a force that sends her flying back several meters before crashing down in the middle of the road. The pain feels like a heavy nket, too thick, too strong to even allow her breath.

    It drains her energy quickly, siphoning everything until she is unable to scream, cry or even move. Just enough strength left in her to move her hand to her stomach and register the sticky feel of blood seemingly oozing from every pore. She tries to curl around herself to protect her baby, but it is toote. There is only a breathless sigh, filled with the darkest agony "my baby"

    Out of nowhere, the raines with a bone-deep cold, leaching away thest of her hope.

    Yan Mei woke up with a sob to find herself cradled against her husband. It took only a second for her body to move until she was twisted around herself around him, holding to his warmth desperately.

    They didn''t speak for the longest time, only the sounds of their breaths stirred the air while their bodies strained closer and closer.

    Maybe an hour passed like that before he said,

    "I''m sorry"

    "Why---what are you apologizing for?" her voice was a soft whisper between the two of them.

    Lei Zhao tensed, then slowly rxed "I should have told you what I found myself. You weren''t supposed to find out like this."

    "It''s not your fault" she murmured, nuzzling into his chest while his arms tightened around her imperceptibly.

    He refused to be mollified, even if she couldn''t see it, she heard the regret in his voice "I should have just let told you but I didn''t want you to get hurt, I really did..."

    Yan Mei cut in, tilting back her head to catch his eye. The dim glow of the wallmps showed her his furrowed brows.

    "I don''t me you, knowing is much better. I''ve had to ask myself why many times, getting the answers may not be an easy or pleasant process for me but it''s important that I know, thanks."

    Lei Zhao tensed, moved away from her, and levered himself into a sitting position "You can''t be thanking me for bringing you another traumatic experience. As your husband I should have told you¡ªnow you''re suffering and it''s my fault. "

    "I''m not made of ss" Yan Mei red at him

    "No you''re not but I promised to love and cherish you, not drive you into the pouring rain until you copsed from the exhaustion of running from me" he continued as if she had not said a word, among the many words was a note of hurt.

    Yan Mei moved to a sitting position and faced her husband; his guilt was etched in his face and she wondered what it would take to remove it

    "I wasn''t running from you; I was running from the fact that I have been living a lie. Her words made me even trust myself, my emotions, and my perceptions less. I loved her like she was my mother and in a way, she was. I just didn''t expect the truth, it fucked with my mind"

    "I still brought her here and hid the truth from you." Lei Zhao stubbornly insisted

    "Because you needed answers" was her cool reply but he wasn''t in the mood to be logical just yet.

    "Answers which has brought you pain. I knew someone closest to you was responsible, I just didn''t know who." Lei Zhao ground out.

    "Stop beating yourself up, stupid. I''m now a grown woman I can handle myself perfectly fine, all thanks to you. So stop beating yourself up would you?" She queried, her brows arched in doubt while her eyes entreated him to ept the truth.

    "I--alright." Even the way he said the words would lead anyone to see that he didn''t believe them himself, but his guilt was hard to let go of.

    Yan Mei sighed, the sound like a mini-explosion in the silence of their bedroom, she allowed herself to look at him, really allowed her eyes to travel over his face and capture the tiny tells of anger and guilt that dimmed his eyes and thinned his lips.

    She sighed again and moved closer until she nestled in his chest, his arms banding around her automatically "That''s not how it works my love. Stop ming yourself and just hold me"

    "I''ll never stop ming myself, what if you had gotten hurt while running" he replied bitterly, his arms tightening around her body.

    Yan Mei couldn''t help the full-body shudder and sudden image of herself sprawled on the street in a widening pool of blood. She shook her head to dislodge the image and nestle into his warmth as she said "Let''s not talk about that" as she snuggled into him, lulled by the beat of his heart.

 Chapter 285 An ex-husbandâ€™s regret

    <h4>Chapter 285 An ex-husband''s regret</h4>

    In the time it took Wang Lu to get from the study to the front door, the ringing doorbell had turned from a mild nuisance to a raging headache.

    Wang Lu opened the front door and red at everything in his path, the sun, the grass, the birds flitting through the air, and especially the smiling postman with a package in his hands. It was too early in his opinion to be smiling that much and genuinely.

    "The Lu''s mansion?" Came the gentle inquiry from the postman who had dimmed the wattage of his smile

    "Yes," his voice was hoarse, roughened byck of sleep and a serious hangover.

    "I have a package for you," the postman answered before thrusting a clipboard at him "please sign here"

    Wang Lu grabbed the clipboard and sprawled almost illegibly across its surface before passing it back, the postman quickly reced it with a slim but thick package and a murmured, "have a nice day" before backing out of his driveway.

    Wang Lu looked at the package in his hands, but didn''t even bother to check the name on it. It looked important and it was obviously something that would require all of his attention, he wasn''t ready to give it yet.

    Standing in the doorway with the noise of birds in the outer garden filling the air, he scratched his face absently and wondered where his butler and servants was, closely followed by thoughts of coffee.

    He closed the door gently, if for no reason than to prevent aggravating the marching band in his head, and stepped back into the house.

    Wang Lu turned towards the kitchen and froze when he caught sight of himself in one of the decorative mirrors on the wall.

    He looked rough, haggard, and unkempt. His eyes were swollen and red, rimmed with an even bigger band of red and veins lining his pupils. His lips looked just a little blue and thinned, he could see the lines bracketing his face and the scruff that he had left untended for several days that was growing into a red rash of a beard.

    His hair was clean but otherwise in disarray but his biggest shock was the look in his eyes, it was too much and too little all at the same time and Wang Lu remembered why he had been avoiding mirrors for a while, call him a coward but he wasn''t ready to see what he had finally be....yet. Ever since he came back from meeting Lei Zhao, his life let''s say has been a quite a mess.

    Arriving in the kitchen he cast a cursory look at the expanse of steel and marble with nothing out of ce and finally located the bubbling coffee pot.

    It told him his butler and servants was somewhere in the house, maybe too far away to hear the doorbell ring. Two cups of ck coffeeter he felt more like himself more capable of dealing with the contents of his slim package.

    He ced it dead center on the table in front of him, barely an inch from his cup of coffee. He sat down on one of the kitchen stools and exhaled loudly

    Wang Lu eyed it again, noting theck of a return address or the indication of whoever sent the package. He knew the contents were going to be life-changing, he couldn''t exactly dismiss the strong sense of foreboding that had gripped him since itnded in his hands but he vaguely wondered if he was interested in having his life changed just yet. He was still reeling from thest time he had his world ripped out from under him.

    Wang Lu eyed the package with mounting curiosity and swore, a harsh sound in the serene environment of the kitchen before getting to his feet to dump his cup in the sink before returning to hunch over the package.

    He swore again and attacked the packaging. The pictures slid out first, then the letter then a thin stack of papers.

    He tore open the letter first, unable to look at the pictures, thest time he had looked at pictures he hadn''t quite survived it. Even now he wished he had been given a choice of ignorance, he wished someone had asked his permission before forcing their own twisted truth on him.

    The first line snagged his attention... It began innocently enough.

    "All these years you have been blinded by your ego. I hope these removes the blind fold from your eyes. And you regret losing the only person who truly ever loved you."

    The words hit him with the force of a death knell, he couldn''t help the low grunt of anguish, he quickly abandoned the letter in favor of the pictures but they weren''t any kinder.

    Slowly, the blindfold was removed from his eyes. He couldn''t help returning to the letter every time, hoping to find something, anything to make sense of the hell he had put himself through.

    Every line, every t surface, every glossy picture condemned him, told a story in which he was a viin. He felt his heartbreak, felt the tears stream down his face until they eddied in his scruffy beard.

    Around Wang Lu were the pieces of a lie he had believed but he couldn''t even im to be the victim, he couldn''t im to be the one hurt. He had been the blind person, breaking the people he loved, blinding by his hurt pride and a huge ego.

    He had destroyed something, something he hadn''t deserved in the first ce.

    For maybe the first time in a long time, he had a purpose, it wasn''t pretty, it wasn''t good, it didn''t suddenly make him the good guy but at least he was no longer the blind fool ying the martyr.

    Wang Lu pulled all the pictures and papers together and headed for his study in purposeful motion, he had things to do.

    He dropped everything on the table and reached for the phone. First things first, he needed to truly see people for whom they were, starting the ones closest to him.

    The connection clicked and he heard that familiar voice from several miles away, "hello mother"

 Chapter 286 The vile mother

    <h4>Chapter 286 The vile mother</h4>

    "Hello my darling, how are you"

    "We need to talk" something in his voice must have alerted his mother to the severity of the situation.

    The silence between them stretched for the longest time but he patiently waited until she folded "I will be there in a little while"

    Wang Lu dropped the call and walked to his bedroom, it looked o different from when she had lived with him. He had changed everything in a fit of rage a few months after she was gone, now he allowed himself to feel that small pang in his chest; finally giving free rein to that small voice that wondered why he hadn''t kept something of her, something to remind him of the better days, of a better love.

    Wang Lu shook himself out of the hold of memories and headed straight to the bathroom. No matter how dramatic it sounded, he did have a date with fate; he hadpletely flopped the first time around. And he had paid for it, losing every good thing that has ever happened to him, this time he was ready toote; but he was going to do his best.

    His absent butler must have let his mother in at a point because when he returned to his living room he found his mother perched on a setteeplete with tea service and a perfunctory smile.

    His mother stood up to give him a kiss on the cheek but he evaded her neatly as he dumped the content on his arms, rattling the entire table.

    Wang Lu knew she had caught sight of the pictures when she pursed her lips. "Darling, no need to be sorry surly"

    He ignored her quip and dived right into it "I just want the truth from you. Why did you do it?" He hated the note of plea threading his voice

    "Why for you my dear" was her breezy reply as she returned back to her seat and cradled the saucer she had dropped when he got into the room.

    For some reason, her light manner infuriated him. "Don''t! Don''t do that, don''t act as if you were looking out for my best interest!" He growled, emphasizing each word as he pinned her with a re.

    She replied hastily, losing some of her flighty attitude "you were too caught up in her wiles to realize she was a gold digger"

    But even he knew that it was just the handy excuse she has "She didn''t even want the money"

    Mrs. Lu pursed her lips again, before taking her time dug through her purse to unearth a filigree lighter and a pack of cigarettes. She lit one deliberately before taking a long drag and after she exhaled replied,

    "pish honey, an attack of conscience or something? How am I to know what goes through her mind"

    It was obvious she couldn''t even see the irony in her own words.

    "I''ve to ask you to not smoke in my house, for the hundredth time" Wang Lu roared out of anger.

    "She always did make you obstinate as a bull" she replied sullenly before taking another stubborn drag

    "And not very malleable for you." He countered easily

    "I don''t know what you mean," she returned while eyeing him warily, before she sighed, a very put upon sigh, and said, "I''m sure you''ll eventuallye to the realization that I did this for you, for us."

    "This was all for you and the fact that you couldn''t stand her." he returned

    "That trailer trash, that white trash creature had youpletely blinded by her open favors you couldn''t see she was not at all the kind of person we wanted in the family." She answered with returning fervor before she tapped her cigarette against the saucer and took another drag, all the while eyeing him warily.

    The rising scent of burning tobo incensed him, her casual attitude annoyed him. The sudden realization that all his life she had gotten her way regardless of whoever had to pay for it drove him to such heights of anger that he had to clench his fists on hisp,

    "Who is this ''we'' mother?" He asked, his tone deceptively calm.

    "Why, the entire family, you were bing aughingstock." Mrs. Lu informed him with no little glee, but he knew her too well to ever believe a word out of her mouth ever again.

    "You did this for yourself" he used

    She stubbed out the cigarette furiously in the saucer before lighting another one in quick session, her reserve quickly reced by open disgust.

    "I wonder why you couldn''t see that you had to marry a respectable wife if you insisted on having that gold digger in your life, you could have made her a discreet mistress; that''s all she was really good for anyway."

    "That woman was my wife" he ground out.

    "Good riddance" her tone flippant.

    "And you abused her, right in my fucking house! And not just that, you hired someone to hit her with a car? The moment your little mini spy informed you I threw her out of the house, you arranged for her to be hit by a car. How could you?!"

    He shouted back. By God he wanted to shake her, he wanted to shake her senseless until her flippant attitude was reced with something appropriate, like fear, like remorse.

    "Is this what this is about? Your wounded pride? I did it so that she wouldn''t make a fool of you anymore, you should be over it by now." She returned, gesturing vaguely around them, the cigarette in her hand spraying ash and smoke

    "I''m sorry." His voice heavy with sarcasm "no one handed me the memo"

    "So dramatic" she sighed on another exhale.

    "Have you no remorse about this? All of this? She loved you like a mother. Worshipped the ground you walked on and you just threw her under a bus, literally. And she lost her home, her marriage, and her child. Our child, a child that would have been your grandchild." The pleading note was back in his voice and he wondered again why he was trying to reason with her.

 Chapter 287 A friendship so pure

    <h4>Chapter 287 A friendship so pure</h4>

    Mrs. Lu lost her cool at his implication, "that gold-digging whore is never going to give me a grandchild, I won''t allow it."

    His fury spilled over he vaulted to his feet in one quick move and pointed at the door with one outfling hand, enjoying her sudden flinch as he shouted, "get out of my house!"

    "Really darling, you''re being a little too" she replied as she scrambled to her feet, dropping the still smoking cigarettes on the saucer and fumbling for her purse.

    "Expect a visit from yourwyers soon" he added a well-aimed blow.

    She gasped, met his eyes of her own volition since she had walked in "you wouldn''t...."

    "Oh I did and what''s more? I enjoyed it. Goodbye mother, the only person that can plead for you and make a difference is that gold-digging whore but I''m sure you''ve burnt that bridge. Hope you enjoy your time in jail, dear mother." He replied with pure avarice.

    "She''ll never be yours again. I made sure of it, she''s moved on forever" she returned with a tight smile of her own but she wasn''t telling him something he didn''t already know.

    "I know and the best part is, I never deserved her, we never deserved her. We are the trash mother, me and you and everyone who looked down on that beautiful woman because she didn''t have the genteel beginnings we did, we were the trash." He replied, suddenly tired of it all.

    "You''re going to regret this" she promised but it was a weak salvo, this close he could see the fear in her eyes for maybe the first time in his entire life. He thought he would relish striking back at her, he had believed in the heat of the moment that he would enjoy his pound of flesh.

    He didn''t feel any better or any worse, his actions had not redeemed him or made him a hero. It didn''t change anything, except to stole his need to revenge higher.

    The problem was that there was no enemy left in sight except himself.

    ************

    The next few days were solemn, almost somber. The house felt stifling like it was trying to contain a secret that was almost too big for it.

    Her husband had been walking on eggshells around her, treating her as if she was fragile and the wrong breeze would break her...again.

    Yan Mei wondered how long it would take for him to stop, forgive himself and realize that she had needed to know the truth. She wondered how long it would be before she stopped feeling so raw.

    The ring of the doorbell skittered across her senses in a way that drew her tense. She looked at Lei Zhao sitting across from her, he had been hoveringtely as if he wanted to be there in case she broke down again.

    She didn''t know if the idea pleased or irritated her. "Go ahead and answer, it''s for you" the words drew the tension in the room tighter but she stood up and headed for the front door.

    The person at the door was someone she wasn''t expecting.

    "Hello, Yan Mei?" He spoke first, his hesitant smile was all she could suddenly see.

    "Hello Leng Shao" she managed to reply before she burst into a sad smile.

    Several minutester they were seated on the front porch while she struggled to gather her calm. Leng Shao waited patiently for her with a calm expression on his face. She suddenly missed him, an emotion she had managed to keep at bay for a very long time.

    "I''m sorry for being so weepy, it''s been a tough week" she apologized, wiping at her eyes with the sleeves of her sweater

    "You know you never have to apologize to me Yan Mei " he countered gently, bringing a fresh wave of tears to her eyes

    "I''ve missed you," she said when she wiped off the new tears

    "I''ve missed you too" the way he said it, there was no doubting the truth.

    "I''m really sorry, Yan Mei. I had no idea my mother would do something like that. Trust me I had no idea about it. You know I will never hurt you right.? I spent the past few nights wondering if I hadn''t fallen in love with you, would you be happier right now?" He queried; his eyes riveted on hers

    Yan Mei sighed, wondering if she was strong enough to survive this chapter of her story. It didn''t hurt like before but there was a new pain, a recent pain. Leng Shao caught her hand and she looked up to catch that expression in his eyes again. She squeezed his hands back and gathered the strength because she knew more than anything that he too was suffering.

    Unrequited love was hard and to watch the woman he loved in his best friend''s arms would have been hard for him. He was truly amazing to have secretly loved her all these years without asking for anything in return while giving her everything.

    "I''m sorry Leng..."

    He cut in quickly "I have and had no intentions of ruining your marriage or making you unhappy but wasn''t it obvious that I would do anything for you?"

    The words stunned her as if a blindfold was taken off her eyes, she now understood that phantom look in his eyes. "I''m so sorry," she said, it was the only thing she could say.

    All the years they had been friends he had not said anything, never given her even a passing hint about his emotions but now she could see them clearly in his eyes. "I''m so sorry for being blind Leng Shao"

    "I loved you, It hurts that you suffered like that all because of me" his smile was sad, overwhelmingly so. She didn''t have to think about it, she just hugged him and the both of them sat in silence wondering about things that could have been if they had only been wiser or even brave enough.

 Chapter 288 Flaws of love

    <h4>Chapter 288 ws of love</h4>

    Yan Mei stepped into the familiar rows of the cemetery and paused, scanning the tombstones announcing a death. She wasn''t looking for someone, she knew where she needed to go, even in sleep her feet would walk in the right direction and stand in front of the right one.

    Like undeniable propulsion that dragged her heavy feet from the gate to the grave, snapping any illusion of control until she was a wrecked crying body.

    Today was different, a lot of difference had been popping up in her lifetely and she couldn''t decide if she liked it or it irked her. For maybe the first time she had started visiting this cemetery she had a measure of peace, her mind was not too clouded by grief to see.

    There were rows and rows of death, with the odd grave neatly manicured and dressed with flowers. She didn''t have flowers but she had a stuffed toy, a tiny squirrel that squeaked when it was squeezed.

    It was not her first gift and it might look a little foolish but she was bringing a gift for her baby.

    Yan Mei moved faster, turning away from the others, and headed for the familiar tombplete with impish cherubs. She had added those because she didn''t want her baby to be lonely, it might have sounded fantastical but it soothed her, she hoped it soothed the soul of the little girl wherever she was. Even if she was never held, never sang to, never tickled, Yan Mei hoped it was obvious that she was loved even if she was never born.

    Yan Mei put the soft toy on the tombstone but not before squeezing it once, then she bent down to remove the straggling weeds taking hold for thest time she was here. Crouched down and deep in her thoughts she didn''t register the presence of another person until she saw the shoes to the left of her, just an inch from where she dropped her pile of weeds.

    Without looking up she knew who it was, she picked off thest of the weed, dusted her hands, and got to her feet to look at her ex-husband.

    "Wang Lu" her voice shaky and hesitant

    "Meimei, I''m sorry" his own was not any better but from the regret dripping from him, she knew that he knew the truth now.

    "Don''t" her words were harsh, curt, and aimed to hurt him.

    From his curt nod, she knew she had seeded with at least that one, immediately, her mood soured, she had no interest in fighting in front of her daughter''s grave.

    "Let''s not fight Wang Lu" she ventured with a weary sigh

    "I didn''te to fight, I doubt there is any fight left in me," he said it with suchcent certainty she knew that he meant more, more than just the issue between the two of them.

    Yan Mei took a good look at him for the first time in six years, he looked all so familiar and all so strange all at the same time. Seeing him evoked a lot of feelings in her, of course, she still felt something for him, she had loved this man and at one time he had loved her too.

    However, her emotions were filled with too much pain, too much doubt to do nothing but fill her with a vague nostalgia. Standing beside him was a jarring trip to the past; he looked well dressed, impably dressed. Yan Mei knew the clothes cost a lot and were made by the best cloth makers money could retain but he wore them with a casual ease that screamed subtly of elegance and style.

    Yes, he wasn''t stiff and overbearing but she couldn''t see him in jeans, ever. He looked well dressed but that was the only effort he had put in. He looked rough, tired, ragged, and fairly unkempt.

    His eyes were red-rimmed and crisscrossed with capiries. He had a beard, and it was a small shock to her, when they had been married, she doubted she had ever seen him with more than a faint dusting of hair on his cheeks, that inevitable five o''clock shadow. This beard looked several weeks in the making

    Finally, she allowed herself to see him, Wang Lu was a picture of regret. A poignant picture, as he hunched over, meeting her eyes.

    "Forgive me, Meimei, I was blind and angry and somehow my wounded pride was bigger than the love we shared." He spoke, breaking the fragile silence.

    "Do you think I want to know that? That all the love I had for you, all of me that I shared with you was not enough to keep us moving forward, to keep us from being destroyed by one lie?" She didn''t know she had this much bitterness left in her.

    "The truth is, I was jealous." He admitted sadly

    Yan Mei whirled at him at the deration. "What was there to be jealous about? I chose you and I loved you!"

    "You were too perfect" Wang Lu countered softly.

    "I was just being myself"

    "That''s what made it worse, you didn''t have any hidden agenda, you weren''t ying a game, it was not a maniptive stunt, you were just being yourself and that made it all worse." He responded

    "I should have been a backstabbing maniptive woman who was only after your money?" He wasn''t making sense and it annoyed her

    "You would have survived. I was brought up in a world where beauty is only skin deep, where every facet of life was apetition and everyone had their own hidden agenda, where everyone was unbearably selfish." He replied, his words unbearably heavy

    "I know"

    He scoffed at that, "you don''t, if you did you would know how much of a challenge you were to them. Everything they held dear was nothing to them, you just wanted to love and be loved. You were like a single candle burning fiercely and brightly without a care for the darkness around you."

    "What does that have to do with anything?" She demanded

    He rushed to exin "I''m not ming you, I''m just saying that you showed us the truth about all of us and no one liked it. We rather liked the lies we told and me most of all"

    "You never lied to me" she murmured

 Chapter 289 Finally letting go

    <h4>Chapter 289 Finally letting go</h4>

    "What does that have to do with anything?" She demanded

    He rushed to exin "I''m not ming you, I''m just saying that you showed us the truth about all of us and no one liked it. We rather liked the lies we told and me most of all"

    "You never lied to me" she murmured

    "I broke my vows and that is the biggest one yet" he replied bitterly

    "I understand"

    Wang Lu chuckled darkly before he stopped abruptly, tearing his eyes from her. "You didn''t have to, but the truth was that every day I was afraid. I woke up every day with the thought that you would finally see me for who I was and leave me.

    "So when she...." Yan Mei couldn''t bring herself to finish

    "I''m not excusing my behavior, but when I saw you or maybe not you at the hotel, my first thought was ''it''s finally happening'' I''d waited for you to realize you could do better and you finally did"

    "But I loved you, Wang Lu, I loved you and you loved me too." Her voice trembled with the conviction of her words

    "I did, I do but you taught me love, any idea of love I ever had I got from you. It was such a beautiful thing that I knew I didn''t deserve but I wasn''t prepared to lose even if I did." He exined, his voice steak with grief

    "I threw you out of the house, not out of hatred, I couldn''t hate you but out of pride. You yed me for a fool and I wanted to erase you and all of the memories of you."

    "You have suffered too" it wasn''t a question.

    "It''s never going to be enough" he stated calmly.

    "Even a day of penance and remorse is enough, I don''t want you to suffer, she wouldn''t want you to suffer" she replied, looking at him before she dragged her gaze back to the small grave.

    "Our baby... I always wondered" his voice was choked with fresh emotion and she couldn''t help the tears that flooded her eyes

    "I never got to held her once" she admitted sadly

    "And I killed her" he replied, soft words but she heard them nevertheless.

    "Wang Lu, you cannot think like that!" She whirled on him again in anger

    "What man ims to love and so easily throw out their loved ones in the streets?" He answered

    "You were manipted!" She shouted back at him, hating how broken he looked and sounded in the moment.

    "I wanted to believe it and maybe I deserved to, maybe I deserved everything that followed." He continued as if she had not spoken a word

    "Wang Lu.." she didn''t get a chance to finish

    He scoffed as he looked down at that small grave. "I didn''t believe enough in us and I''m not deserving of neither your forgiveness nor hers"

    "That''s not how it works." She said yet again

    "I''m sorry for bringing it all up" he apologized again

    "It''s been an eventful few days, I finally found out the truth about what happened five years ago, Leng Shao loving me all these years and then... Well here you are, it''s been a trip."

    "I can imagine"

    "You know, he said he loved me, even then"

    "I knew, that''s what made it so believable," he said with a sigh before moving closer and catching her hand. He squeezed not one and she returned the gesture before they just held each other, a tentative touch after so many years.

    "We never..." The denial came to her lips but he brushed it aside

    "I know that now, I doubt you even knew. I was your whole world, but I didn''t believe I was worthy of that. And Leng Shao was a better person than I was and if anyone I knew deserved you, it would be him."

    "That''s not how it works" she stated firmly.

    "I know, tell that to old me"

    "I hope you have forgiven old you because I have and I''m sure even she wouldn''t want you to keep suffering." She insisted

    "I don''t doubt that, if she is anything like, you were always so perfect and giving."

    The two of them stood inpanionable silence, the tension leaching off in little degrees until they could afford to smile, a small tired rueful smile tinged by the smallest amount of regret and grief.

    "I know I don''t have a right but I want to know, are you happy now? Does he make you happy?" He was genuinely interested in her answer.

    "Yes, but for the longest time, I didn''t allow him. I didn''t believe I deserved to be happy because I was a terrible mother, I couldn''t save my baby. Because I was a terrible wife who couldn''t even make the man she loved to see the truth about her" Yan Mei didn''t know why she told him, the words came unbidden to her tongue.

    "Even gone I managed to ruin your life." He stated with a sad smile.

    "No, not you. You never nned this" she replied

    "I could have believed you, hell I could have been kinder in my actions, I consigned you to hell." He ground out, his disgust at his past actions apparent.

    "Maybe you did but I chose to stay here."

    "But you are happy now"

    "Yes"

    "I''m d, you deserved the best man"

    "What about you Wang Lu, what do you deserve?" She asked, despite all that happened, she didn''t want him to suffer anymore.

    "A good night''s sleep, hopefully."

    "God!" She eximed, even though she was gued with night terrors too

    "Don''t pity me, I created this hell" he replied, his words a little harsh

    "Walk out of it then, for me, for us." She gestures at the grave in front of them.

    "I''ll try"

    "Try harder."

    "I will, I think I will." He promised with a sad smile before he dropped her hands and turned to walk away.

    "Wang Lu" she called, stalling him a few steps away "I want you to be happy, she would want you to be happy" he didn''t turn around but from the way he tensed, she knew he had heard her. He continued to walk away from her as she turned back to the grave.

    She waited for a few minutes or so, tapped the tombstone, and said "see youter baby girl" before she turned to leave.

    Lei Zhao was waiting for her patiently, leaning on the card the picture of nonchnce but Yan Mei knew he was alert.

    "I met Wang Lu" she stated calmly.

    "I know" his eyes darted all over her face to gauge her emotions

    "Any more surprises?" She asked curtly

    Lei Zhao shook his head, still trying to read her expression, and she finally nodded at him.

    "We talked, a long-overdue conversation"

    "And"

    I''m done" two words but it had so much meaning, it was heavy with importance.

    Lei Zhao opened his arms and she moved into them, allowing herself toe home to him "I''m so proud of you my love, you humble me so much and I can''t help loving you"

    At times, the biggest medicine is letting go of your pains and forgiving those who caused them.

    -THE END?

 Chapter 290 Game begin

    <h4>Chapter 290 Game begin</h4>

    ONE WEEK LATER,

    The days passed by in a blur for Yan Mei. After finding out the truth and forgiving the people who caused her the pain, she felt more peaceful and freer. Now she just wanted to focus on herself, build a family and be happy with the man she loves.

    Unfortunately, fate would not leave her alone as usual. The viin in her life had been monitoring her and was just waiting for the right moment to strike at her. That moment was finally here.

    Seeing the glow back in her eyes irked him. Why should she be happy while he suffered? She got to be with the one she loves while he can''t even be with the woman he has fallen in love with!

    His little innocent maid whom he had just killed with his bare hands. Gu Zhi looked at his blood-stained hands holding a dead heart as a single tear fell out from his eyes. He-he really killed her.

    Gu Zhi couldn''t hear anything above the pounding or the blood in his ears.

    One word kept running through his head as he remembered the scene in front of her ''betrayal'', the truth broadsiding him.

    Gu Zhi gasped, but at first, it didn''t register. He was barely keeping himself from throttling the vacuous creature chatting away in front of him as if the words she said didn''t have any serious impact.

    "Yes master, he haspletely fallen in love with me. Everything is going ording to n. Very soon I will get rid of this monster for causing harm to the young mistress. So stupid thinking anyone could ever love a psycho like him."

    The stinging words were delivered in a lightly conversational tone and Gu Zhi wondered if this overly coiffed woman didn''t have enough sense to see the danger, she was currently in.

    It took a lot of courage to insult a man''s intelligent to his face or a lot of stupidity. In this case, he was inclined to believe it was a terminal case of short-sightedness, shitty personality, and a huge dose of stupidity.

    Currently, his fists clenched until they bled white but the creature in front of him was so focused on talking to whoever wasmunicating to her through her pendant to notice him.

    "you should be becareful and not act rashly. We all know that man isn''t normal and he is working with people from the underworld."

    That was when she heard the soft gasp, she discounted it but it was quickly followed by the crash of ss on the floor. That was when she looked up to see Gu Zhi, standing just inside the room with angry tears dripping down his face and a look she would never be able to describe.

    It was anger in a maelstrom of pain, filled with regret and not a little bit of self-me. It was a look one would wear if they ever heard of a betrayal from someone so close to them, but it held more, much more.

    Subconsciously she stepped back. He looked so wounded and she was afraid of what he would do to her. In order for Gu Zhi not to suspect anything they sent someone with no fighting skills or powers.

    Her feet turned in an automatic flight response, she needed to get away. Away from this psycho. Absently she heard him calling her, like a voice far away "Yu Xi! Yu Xi!" But her feet kept moving, in an absent-minded motion she threw open the door and barged into the rain.

    Gu Zhi didn''t know what he was feeling. He couldn''t begin to fathom the emotions tearing him apart but he knew one thing, he couldn''t allow her to keep running. He didn''t know where she was going, he doubted she had any n to go to any particr ce, he understood her need to escape but he also knew there was no running from this.

    She was going to pay dearly for her betrayal

    "Yu Xi!" He called his voice almost drowned out by the pour down. She ran even faster and turned the corner away from him. Her steps were disjointed as if she was drunk, he chased after her, turning the corner in a haste before pulling to an abrupt stop.

    She had crashed to her knees in the middle of the sidewalk, crouched down as she cried, not even bothering to protect herself from the cold rain.

    "Please¡­ don''t kill me, please, don''t¡­." She muttered incoherently.

    Gu Zhi said nothing but he stripped off his jacket and crouched beside her. He called her name once more, but when she didn''t respond he decided to just drape the jacket around her.

    "Yu Xi?" He tried again

    "My baby" her anguished whisper was his response.

    He tensed, his body going as stuff as a board, the only time he had ever heard her say those words and sound like that was when she was having a nightmare. He doesn''t even know if those nightmares were real or not.

    She must have been lost in thoughts because his next words jolted her," It''s okay, let''s go home." He quickly lifted her up and cradled her to his chest as he walked back to their house.

    They said nothing because he couldn''t trust himself not to do something terrible to her.

    Yu Xi whimpered and he pulled her a little closer before he jostled her to the side, opened the door, and carried her in, heading straight for the bathroom.

    He turned on the hot tap, allowing it to fill up the tub while he carefully stripped off her clothes. She remained quiet, except for a few whimpers and pain-filled murmurs but he didn''t know if she was still lost in her thoughts or in fear.

    After stripping herpletely, he submerged her into the hot water, using a loofah to dab at her head and shoulder to spread the warmth to parts of her post that remained above water.

    After he was done, he had her in bed, dry warm and suitably clothed.

    He sat beside her on the bed as he hugged her shivering body.

    "Shss¡­..I''m going to make this less painful." Yu Xi widened her eyes in fear at his words.

    "No-No don''t. I¡­."

    "Shsss¡­..sleep darling. Since you stole my heart I guess it''s only normal I take yours too. My sweet angel."

    Yu Xi widened her eyes in fear but before she could say anything she feel intoplete darkness. She didn''t even know how or when he had killed her.

    "Boss! Boss!" His assistant voice snapped him out of his thoughts. He looked up at the man.

    The man looked at the body with her chest opened and he shivered. His boss was really a nut case. How could he-

    "Stare at her again and I will gouge your eyes out." Gu Zhi said calmly as his lips curved into a sinister smile.

    "Sorry Boss! Everything has been arranged ording to ns. Tomorrow we are ready to carry on."

    "Alright. Let the game begin." Gu Zhi said as he let out a manicugh.

    A/N: Sorry guys for disappearing hehe. Also ofc the book hasn''t ended was just pulling your legs! And I believe I owe some people. Yes i remember that one too. Will settle it soon!

 Chapter 291 The bait

    <h4>Chapter 291 The bait</h4>

    Wang Lu got out of the car with a level of urgency and stormed into the office building, a few minutester he stormed back out, in even more of a hurry.

    His actions were observed by a solitary figure perched on the doorway near where the car was parked. The man watched his harried motions with a sardonic smile, that bordered on anticipatory and slightly feral.

    He paused at the curb to look in both directions. The early morning traffic was anemic but it was clear he didn''t find what he was looking for with the way he stormed back into the building.

    In his absence, the figure in the doorway darted forward to quickly ce a note on his windshield, secure it with the wiper before melting back into the shadows.

    Wang Lu raced out of the building, this time he was almost buzzing with impossibly frantic energy. He looked all around him with an edginess of one whose peace was suddenly snatched away.

    He opened the door, got in the car, and closed it with a m only to wrench it open a secondter as he stepped out of the car, moving towards his windshield before standing there, staring gingerly at the note tucked into the wiper fluttering feebly in the wind.

    Wang Lu removed the note carefully and read it, even from a distance one could see how he suddenly became pale, the shock emzoned on his face.

    The figure in the shadows smiled, a wide smile that revealed his entire teeth in a show of malevolent enjoyment. The feral gleam in his eyes shone even brighter before moving forward.

    Wang Lu didn''t see the movement, didn''t sense the creature behind him, he was so riveted on the note in his hand that he heard only a whisper before he sank into the dark.

    Wang Lu came to slowly, greeted by the musty air in a long-abandoned room. He looked around him, a few minutes to take in everything; one minute of quick observation pointed to the fact that he was in a warehouse, seated, tied up and he wasn''t alone

    And in front of him was a small camcorder on a tripod with the red light blinking and beside it was a trolleyid out with gleaming hardware. Arranged in neat rows was every implement with a sharp edge he knew, some he didn''t know but even in the dim lighting, all the edges faintly gleamed in the re of the electric bulbs that lit up the area around him

    "You''re awake, good. Smile pretty boy, it''s not a party without you and your bitch will need to see that I''m treating you right. Oh right, she is no more your bitch but I''m sure she wouldn''t let you die" came a familiar voice from beside him.

    Wang Lu froze, he knew that voice but that was impossible, he was dead. Gu Zhi was very dead, he had killed him himself, held the smoking gun as he watched him bleed all over the ce.

    "Gu Zhi" he croaked, his voice cracking with disbelief and anger

    "It''s me baby" the figure moved closer until it resolved into a familiar picture in front of him,plete with casual jeans, a jacket, and a baseball cap.

    Anyone who saw him would describe him as normal, average, nondescript. Nobody held on to that impression when they saw his eyes, it remained t no matter the expression on his face except at times when it took on a shade of sick glee.

    Like it did right now, it only meant one thing, Wang Lu couldn''t help the sickening awareness that rolled through him. "You should be dead" He ventured.

    Gu Zhi smiled, it was more of a caricature of one. "I should right? Now that''s funny, aren''t you d to see me?"

    "You should be dead" Wang Lu couldn''t help the slight shock that was bleeding into his voice, knowing and seeing the evidence were two separate things. The impossible was not easily epted now even when it was staring you in the face while absently caressing a rack of torture instruments.

    "It seems not even death wants me, and that breaks my heart" Gu Zhi casually stripped his jacket rolled up the sleeves of his shirt as he answered in a conversational tone with a conspiratorial and rueful smile.

    The casual menace incensed him, Wang Lu hated the almost nonchnt atmosphere between them, it suggested a vague camaraderie, as if at one point he had not fervently wished to tear him limb from limb "I''m sure even your mom doesn''t want you, you should have stayed in hell with your pathetic sister" he growled, tugging at the ropes wrapped around him. Despite his jerking, the bindings didn''t give a single inch.

    It was almost as if the frantic motions and anger he provoked pleased him, Gu Zhi smiled, taking time to appreciate the scene in front of him before casually replying "No, I missed all the good times we had together"

    "We didn''t have any good times you bastard!!" Wang Lu growled, jerking even harder. He just needed the ropes to give one inch, just a single inch and he would be able to do something.

    "No? Guess that''s why I''m back to make it up for all the lost times," Gu Zhi promised as his hands returned to stroking his favorite toys with a look of predatory anticipation

    Fuck you!" Wang Lu spat back at him, straining against the rope that was holding him to the chair. The metal scraped against the concrete in uneven loud screeches that was swallowed by the empty and cavernous warehouse.

    Gu Zhi smiled, a look that bordered on manic and he stalked forward, taking care not to block the camera. He stood for a good second smiling down at the man scowling up at him before he threw the first punch.

    Wang Lu felt the crunch of the cartge in his nose, followed by an explosion of pain that slowly drained off into a small but insistent throbbing on his face. "Fuck you, Gu Zhi, fuck you!"

    The low chuckle drove his head up to see Gu Zhi smiling at the blood on his fist. A smirk was the only warning given before the next blownded.

    With every punch, Wang Lu swore at him, refusing to cry out no matter how brutal the blow Gu Zhiughed. After the tenth or eleventh punch, Gu Zhi walked away and took the camcorder off the tripod, and fiddled with it.

    Wang Lu stared balefully at his attacker, his face a mosaic of rising bumps and bruises, Gu Zhi looked up once, the smile on his face promising even worse things, "I think it''s time little kitty joined us, I can''t let you have all the fun now can I?"

    The words triggered an avnche of panic and anger that drove Wang Lu to start wrenching harder at ropes binding him again, "no, Gu Zhi, no"

    "Don''t be greedy" Gu Zhi admonished, the same manic smile ying on his lips, if possible he looked even more feral

    "Fuck you, Gu Zhi, don''t send it, don''t send it you eat bastard, I''ll do anything, she doesn''t need to be here" Wang Lu ground out, the screeching of his metal chair against the concrete floor slicing through the air.

    Gu Zhi looked pleased, pleased at the emotions he was wringing out of his victim "I beg to differ, she needs to be right here, she''s the birthday girl, you''re just the bait."

 Chapter 292 Demon from the past

    <h4>Chapter 292 Demon from the past</h4>

    Yan Mei''s phone rang, a jarring noise in the near-death stillness of the environment around her. The unknown number disyed on her screen shouldn''t have caused a sense of foreboding to swell in her mind but it did.

    She eyed the phone for one brief second, weighing impossibilities before she clicked the call "hello" her voice sounded too frail, too wispy, and just like that, all the time between then and now vanished and she was just as lost, just as alone and even more vulnerable because she had so much more to lose.

    "Hello my sweet little kitty, tell me that you''ve missed me. Wang Lu is not ying nice" the voice was urbane and friendly, yet only a fool would miss the cold tread of menace beneath all that conviviality.

    It was just a voice, after all, it didn''t sound any different from that of any average male but the memory made it much more, it shouldn''t have knocked a hole in her confidence and reduced her to that person, that thing cringing on the floor and waiting hopelessly for the next blow but it did.

    "Gu Zhi"

    "Hello Dear, I have a gift for you, check your phone, and let''s meet up at our favorite ce" he instructed before clicking off abruptly.

    Yan Mei froze, the words set off an avnche of horror in her mind, images rose in her mind unbidden to blind her in a deluge of terrorizing memories.

    She knew what it would be like but she opened the video and made herself watch it. It started as a mundane image, nothing special until one realized that the man sprawled indolently in the chair was tied just like to expose all his body.

    She tried to steel herself for what was inevitable, but she ended up winning when the first blownded. Her hand tightening around her phone until her knuckles shone white.

    She waited until the very end of the video, taking note of how much he had enjoyed it.

    It seemed impossible but it was back, it seemed unreal. In the back of his mind, a voice mored that it was not real, that Gu Zhi was dead, riddled with bullet holes and rotting in an unmarked grave. That Wang Lu was just, out, somewhere, anywhere apart from there.

    She had to go even if she didn''t want to, even if every single cell of her body mored to run away, she couldn''t allow herself to be that weak, she needed to be strong. For him, for her, even if it broke her. The abyssy just in front of, just beneath her feet and she was holding on to her sanity by her fingertips.

    "It''s time," she said and the stationary bodies around her flowed into action around her until she was the only one left. "It''s time" this time she told herself softly and stood up, ready to confront her special hell.

    *******

    Yan Mei stepped into the warehouse, and she couldn''t stop the wave of fear that rippled through her body. The space was too familiar, her body recalled the dank dry air, with that faintly musty quality too well. The shadowed alcoves with the light bulbs enveloped her in a macabre embrace, it felt like home; if a home was the ce she had bled the most if the home was the ce she had been so broken she couldn''t even begin to recognize pain as something different from her.

    Home, where every ache, every anguish bled together until her every existence throbbed. The home was begging for death while these walls swallowed her screams.

    The memories came faster now, drowning out reality until all she could see was the blood that seemed to ooze from every bore, even her hair was sticky with it. And the click of another metal instrumenting for her body.

    "Hello little kitty, I see you remember me" he stood in the middle of the halo of light bulbs, allowing the light illuminate him from every angle. But even if the room was dark, she would know it was him, she would recognize that air of dread anywhere.

    He remained himself, unassuming, even genial but she knew, he was most dangerous when he was well pleased.

    "Gu Zhi" the sight of him drove the words out of her mouth, a tortured exhale. She could feel the tremors in her hand, a response to him that she hated, a response that drove his menacing smile even wider

    "Do you remember the fun times we had here?" Gu Zhi asked, idly gesturing to the empty room around them. It used to be a well-stocked torture chamber,plete with a cage for her. If she squinted, she could almost see it, the bars and the chains. "You couldn''t get enough, you kept begging for more." Her torturer reminisced with a straight face, his eyes riveted on hers, enjoying her every reaction.

    "Gu Zhi" her voice cracked midpoint and the name trailed off into a whimper that pleased him to no end.

    He paused, before moving to the side and allowing her to see her dear ex husband. She involuntarily moved closer, a desperate need to touch him filled her, to make sure he was alive but the fear froze her just a few meters from them but close enough to see every bump and discoloration on his face. Anger burned in her gut, an emotion that was quickly smothered by helplessness

    Wang Lu''s face was stolen and bruised, his nose sticky with clotted blood, but even from the distance, she could see he was effectively gagged.

    That reminded her of some nights, some other times when she had been even denied the ineffective release of screams. The metal ball sitting like a heavy judgment on her tongue, leaving only enough space to breathe. It was a tricky position, she could either choose to breathe or swallow the saliva flooding her mouth. Any attempt to scream led to choking, and how he pushed her, just waiting for her to fall off the edge, just like now.

    "I love the way you say my name now, I like it even better when I''m all you can think about, all you can see," Gu Zhi repliednguidly moving to the tray of instruments and caressing them casually.

 Chapter 293 Going back to hell

    <h4>Chapter 293 Going back to hell</h4>

    "Why are you doing this? Please let him go" Yan Mei pleaded with him, even though she knew it wouldn''t change anything. The tears flooded her eyes and she couldn''t even bring herself to wipe her eyes, too well she remembered how he loved her tears, how he treasured her screams.

    In the beginning, she had begged until her voice was hoarse, pleaded with him, tried to bargain, and even tried railing at him but he only absorbed, delighted at every show of emotion.

    "Remember when your entire existence was me?" He continued in a casual conversational tone, they could have been discussing the weather for all the inflection in his voice

    "I taught you how to breathe, I determined how you did everything and even when you screamed, it was all because of me, I made you into the best thing you could be and you were to eager to please"

    The words drove heavy bile to her throat until even her breath tasted bitter. The tremors racked her entire body until it seemed impossible that she would, could keep standing "Let him go" her voice was a mere whisper, a faint breath.

    "Him? He''s nothing, remember when he wasn''t in the picture? Just you and me little kitty, just you and me, and you gave me everything."

    Gu Zhi gestures vaguely at Wang Lu, but she couldn''t look at him, she couldn''t take her eyes off Gu Zhi. Terrible things happen when she toke her eyes off him, terrible things happened around him but she could hear the screeches of the metal chair grinding against the concrete floor getting more frantic by the minute

    "Let him go" her voice barely louder than before.

    "He needs to see how we are, me and you little kitty. We were perfect together until you left." Gu Zhi used her, all the while wearing that smile.

    She knew that smile, over time she had learned to predict him by the subtle tilt of his smiles, this one meant he was nning something devious, desperation choked her "Please let him go, I''ll do anything, I''ll willingly stay"

    He smiled, pleased with her words before he shook his head "No, I''m going to erase him from you,pletely purge him so that we can go back to the way we used to be. I came back for you, I had toe back. I made a deal with the devil for you did you know that?"

    "No" a choked sob ripped from her throat.

    "What''s your life without me huh, nothing. Say it!" The sudden intensity in his voice sliced through the room with an edge of dread.

    "No please, not Wang Lu" she continued between broken sobs, her eyes riveted in her husband''s.

    "You don''t listen, you never listen" Gu Zhi spat as he abandoned every illusion of being calm andposed. His eyes burned with a raging and feral need to destroy, too bad she was the object of his obsession.

    "Please not him" she plead even knowing it wouldn''t make a difference. "I''ll do anything, please!"

    "Say you''ve missed me" he prompted again, reducing the space between them to nothing

    "I''ve missed you" she parroted from her knees as she looked up to see the sick glee at her position at his feet.

    "Say you''re nothing without me" it was an almost intimate whisper, it promised her horrors

    "I''m nothing without you" she returned

    "Say my name!" He spat, suddenly angry. His hands descended until he fisted her hair, tightened the strands, and used it as asso to jerk her head backward, she had no choice but to look at him, her throat primed for the descent of the twitching hand at his side.

    "Gu Zhi" she returned obediently

    "Say you''re nothing without me, say my name when you say it, kitty, say my name!" He shouted at her, punctuating every word with a jerk while he tightened his hand in her hair till every inch of her scalp throbbed.

    "I''m nothing without you, I''m nothing." She replied, unable to help the tears streaming down her face.

    He finally relented "That''s my girl." The fist in her hair released as he lifted the hand to trace the tears on her cheeks

    Those were the right words, she had needed to hear him say it just once. Then everything changed.

    Yan Mei surged up in one single move and he couldn''t help the shock emzoned on his face. It seemed unreal that she was fighting back, he couldn''t reconcile the image of the sobbing girl with this avenging angel with a vicious smile.

    Yan Mei surged up in one quick move, head-butted him, the cartge in his nose shattered with a satisfying crunch but she didn''t give herself time to enjoy it, she simply swung around in an anti-clockwise motion and kicked him.

    The kick rocked him back a few steps but the shock of it had a more profound effect on him as witnessed by his expression before he quickly wiped it off and reced it with a smile.

    It was his most malevolent smile yet, but she was done pretending it had any effect on her. Sheughed, a loud note of bitter mirth that filled the warehouse. "I sure he had you fooled Gu Zhi, how can you believe that I was just waiting to knuckle under to you"

    "You''ve gotten a few bad habits, Yan Mei, Faking it and hitting back, did he teach you that? I wonder how long it will take me to cure you of them"

    "The irony is blinding, you''re the one that needs a cure you sick depraved monster" the words were harsh but the delivery was calm, she was done letting him draw reactions out of her, ever.

    Gu Zhi tutted at her as if she were a disobedient child "first things first, he''ll have to go, I can''t allow such disruptive bursts of Independence between us, terribly inconvenient"

    "The only person leaving here is you and that when you go back to hell" she replied easily, defiance coating every word.

 Chapter 294 The plan

    <h4>Chapter 294 The n</h4>

    Gu Zhiughed, " have I told you about hell? I should, the Devil is a good friend of mine, gave me time and a few other things guaranteed to make my return to earth a huge sess"

    Maybe you should have stayed there" Yan Mei replied casually

    "Maybe I should kill your dear ex-husband" Gu Zhi suggested, irked that he was not getting his desired reaction.

    Before those words would have undone her, she would have been on her knees at that threat crying and begging and willing to do anything but not anymore, time and healing had forged her into something new, something different.

    She had been here before but she was different now, she was nothing like that creature that had waited to die, she was a woman who wore her scars like armor and dared anyone to try her.

    "I would say try it, but you can''t"

    That was when Gu Zhi registered that he had not heard the metal on concrete screeches for a while, he looked at the chair and saw that Wang Lu was no longer in it, but it also showed him that they were surrounded.

    A small crowd of people in ck tactical gear wearing guns with a casual ease that denoted that they weren''t strangers to violence dotted the interior of the warehouse in a loose circle. He wondered how he had missed all that.

    Lei Zhao moved away from the men in ck and moved to stand beside his wife. She didn''t take his eyes off Gu Zhi but their hands found each other in an action that spoke of familiar ease and mutual emotions.

    Yan Mei finally allowed herself to rx since she had walked into the warehouse. Even though she had gone over the n many times, she had always been worried that something would go wrong. Even knowing that Lei Zhao were working to free Wang Lu and get rid of Gu Zhi''s men, the anxiety in her continued to racket upwards.

    But having him close to her no, skin to skin, safe as can be drained all of her worries. Her hands tightened in his grasp as she enjoyed his closeness, it was a bonus that their simple gesture drove Gu Zhi insane, now she was ready to do what she had to do.

    "You think I didn''t know it was you? You think I had no idea that it was you all along? You''re not the scariest thing in the world these days, you''re nothing. A mild inconvenience at most." She continued, drawing his attention back to her.

    "Well, this mild inconvenience managed to kidnap your dear powerful ex-husband." Gu Zhi boasted, still trying to get a reaction from her.

    Yan Mei scoffed "Yes, I bet he just waited around and disyed himself loud enough to catch your attention"

    "You bitch!"

    "You''re right, I am and it was all in an attempt to get you here Gu Zhi this is thest time you mess with me," Yan Mei replied a calm tone targeted at infuriating the other party.

    At her signal, the group moved and surrounded Gu Zhi, one of them directed a blow to Gu Zhi''s body and he folded with a groan and someone cuffed him neatly with a zip tie.

    Gu Zhi subsided, but it by no means meant he was calm, she was too used to his temper not to understand what the tic in his left eye meant "It''s easy to be strong when you''re surrounded by people who would put a bullet in me for the fun of it, I guess you''re only powerful enough to hide behind the big boys Yan Mei, you wouldn''t be so brave if you were left to fight me by yourself"

    Yan Meiughed again, this time herughter was genuine and mocking "You always did have an ego on you, it kind of blocked out the fact that underneath it all you are just a sniveling creature who wanted some attention, Gu Zhi, how sad."

    "Ha!"

    "You''re not man enough, but it''s alright, I''m going to fight you anyway. Let''s settle it all one on one and the winner will be the only one to get out of here alive" she promised, stalking close this time until the two of them were illuminated by the ring of light bulbs.

    Yan Mei gave another signal and the zip tie was cut, allowing Gu Zhi to get back to his feet as he rubbed his wrist. The tactical team fanned out to surround the both of them; far enough to give them space but close enough to take immediate action.

    Not that she needed help, she had been waiting for this day since the moment she started to heal, she hadmented his death only because she wanted to squeeze the life out of him herself.

    If anything, he was the one who needed protecting from her, there was only one monster her and she imed the title wholeheartedly but Gu Zhi was too blind to see that.

    Gu Zhi smiled, the first confident smile since the tables had turned on him. Around the circle of bodies tightened visibly but he was too interested in the person in front of him to notice "You shouldn''t have done that little kitty, you should have told those men to shoot me and walked away, now I''m going to enjoy this"

    "Not if I kill you first" she taunted, that was when he lost his illusions of cool.

    Gu Zhi walked to meet her halfway and dove to cover the distance between them with a yell.

    Yan Mei easily sidestepped the move without allowing him to touch her, that would only get her pinned down, she sounds away at thest moment, directing a punishing strike at his exposed face.

    Gu Zhi crashed to the ground and immediately got to his feet, he paused to brush the blood off his lips before looking at her "I see you''ve learned new tricks, this is only going to make breaking you better" he chuckled

 Chapter 295 Finish him

    <h4>Chapter 295 Finish him</h4>

    "I see you''re still making ims you can''t back," Yan Mei replied as got into a fighting stance.

    Gu Zhi scoffed then rushed to her again, this time he dove towards her and changed direction midway as he dropped low and sneaked a brutal punch under her guard.

    The brutal blow drove the air from her lungs and drove her back two steps, Yan Mei barely allowed herself time to experience the pain before she dove back with a punch that snapped back his head.

    Gu Zhi snagged her hands and used them to wrenching her forward, then connected his knee to her sternum and simultaneously kicking her back "had enough little kitty?"

    "You bore me" she answered with a smile, exposing blood-stained teeth.

    The two of them took a second to catch their breaths before jumping back into the fray. The two of them traded blows, most were blocked and the few thatnded were brutal, punishing, and filled with such vitriol no one in that warehouse was under any illusion. It was a fight to the death and it was a match between two equally match death dealers.

    Yan Mei aimed a kick at Gu Zhi''s midsection but he darted back with just a hairsbreadth of space between them to escape the vicious blow then he kicked out her leg from under her and grabbed her by the throat "hello little kitty"

    Yan Mei took his moment of distraction to knock his left arm wide, delivered a flurry of blows to his midsection, and finished the masterpiece by kneeing him in the balls, distracted by pain, his hands loosened around her throat and she quickly darted back.

    "Fuck you bitch" he groaned, his eyes promising dark revenge, she dared him with a smirk.

    Then she moved in for the kill, all expression gone. She darted in a knee to the underside of his jaw, two well-ced punches to the trachea, another punch that drove the air out of his lungs in a loud whoosh before she delivered another kick to his groin.

    Hended hard on the floor, then she moved in on him. She rained blows all over his face as she straddled him, his body jerking with the force of every blow as the blood started to spurt from his lips and every cut she inflicted on his face.

    On and on she went until her anger drained away suddenly, Yan Mei staggered to her feet, dizzy in the aftermath of the adrenaline that had fueled her.

    She looked down at the pathetic creature wheezing on the floor and oozing blood, she spat at him and walked away. She was done with this her men could take care of the rest, right now she wanted to go into the arms of the man she loved and be held.

    She wanted to take a bath to wash away thest remnants of this warehouse and its lingering ghosts, she wanted to sleep in the safe embrace of her loved ones finally able to exorcise the remaining demons in her mind, this time she was done forever.

    As she walked forward, aches and pains made themselves known across her body, indicating that she didn''t walk away unscathed but that was littlepared to the euphoria of freedom coursing through her.

    Then Wang Lu started running towards her, his eyes wide with fear as he crashed into her and spun her around, then they started crashing to the ground slowly

    A second was all it took for her to understand what happened, while her back was turned Gu Zhi used his final weapon and Wang Lu had taken the blow from her.

    An intense rage descended on her, cking out thest of her restraint and conscience. A red haze filled her vision while thunder crackled in a halo around her. Yan Mei matched back to him, her eyes promising death.

    For the first time in his life, Gu Zhi knew fear, the enraged demoness marching for him was nothing like he had ever seen, nothing like the broken creature he had like to you with. For the first time in his life, he opened his mouth to beg but she didn''t give him a chance.

    Yan Mei pointed her right hand at him then squeezed the fist; the first snap of breaking wet bone filled the room before he started screaming. The noise was like fuel to her dark need to see him extinguished she squeezed and squeezed until all that remained on the floor was a mangled lump of flesh that faintly whimpered.

    Kneeling beside him, she drove her hand into his chest cavity, wrenched out the heart pumping sluggishly before she dropped it on the ground and smashed it into the floor.

    "Let me see youe back from that." She dared the rapidly cooling body in front of her.

    Lei Zhao finally breathed a sigh of relief when he saw his wife was okay. He wanted to be the one to get rid of this psycho but he knew his wife had been waiting for this moment for a very long time. And he has to say he was proud of her

    "How is he?" Yan Mei voice snapped Lei Zhao out of his thoughts.

    "He will live, don''t worry. How are you?"

    Yan Mei shed him a warm smile.

    "Better than I have ever been."

    Lei Zhao lips curled into a smile and nodded.

    "Good. Now let''s go home and let get you clean up wife."

    Yan Mei nodded, "Yeah, home, I like the sound of that. I could use a cold shower too. Will you apany me?"

    Lei Zhao chuckled and shook his head helplessly.

    "You know we have a dying man right on the floor we need medical attention right?"

    Yan Mei snickered and shrugged

    "Oh, I''m sure he will live."

    Unbeknownst to them two figures were standing in the shadow looking at them.

    "The master will be so proud of the young miss." A voice said in the shadow.

    "Yeah. She has grown a lot in the past few years. Such a shame the master isn''t around to witness her growth."

    The leader of the two men furrowed his brows as he sighed.

    "It seems that woman has finally decided to strike now that the master isn''t around to protect the young miss. Shadow you must be vignt and focus on protecting her at all cost understand?"

    "Yes sir! I will protect her with my life. After all she saved me."

    The man nodded with satisfaction.

    "That¡­where is the master? I haven''t seen him since he saved the young miss husband."

    Shadow asked the question that has been brothering him nut unfortunately, he didn''t get the answer he wants.

    "Let''s go!"

    His leader said ignoring his question.

 Chapter 296 Beautiful Roomie

    <h4>Chapter 296 Beautiful Roomie</h4>

    At 8:01 p.m. on the dot, Liam stepped through the ss front doors of Catalyst Games'' downtown headquarters. As a game developer for various sci-fi games, he worked a job that his younger, video game obsessed self would be proud of.

    For a job, he got to delve into wild and impossible worlds that people could only dream about. It was the perfect escape from reality. Yet, he still found himself looking forward to getting off of work.

    He shifted hisptop bag up higher on his shoulder, ruffling the sleeve of his ck, short sleeve button down as he took a step toward the parking lot. Suddenly, he heard a familiar voice call out to him from somewhere in the surrounding darkness.

    "Hey, roomie."

    Liam turned his head, his heart immediately starting to race as his eyes fell on the one reason that made his reality far better than any video game world he could ever bring to life.

    "What are you doing here,Ying Sheng? Isn''t your operations management ss meeting right now?"

    Liam asked her, expecting her to be in her night ss back at the university. His eyes automatically swept over her, taking her in from her long ck hair to the slightly smudged eyeliner to the scuffed upbat boots that she paired with her ck hoodie and denim shorts. It seems she has changed her hair again.

    Ying Sheng tilted her head at him with a small smirk, her shoulders lifting and dropping in a careless shrug.

    "I got bored just thinking about that ss. I think sushi and me Lane''s newest album sounds way more important,"

    Ying Sheng quipped as she strode over to him and looped her arm in his to tug him away from the building and down the sidewalk. A snake tattoo adorned her right hand, the ck and red ink appearing bold against her skin.

    Liam found himself smiling uncontrobly, despite the suddenness of her ns. He had grown used to it over the past few months of knowing her. When they became roommates a couple of months ago he had be even more familiar with her spontaneous behavior and bold attitude.

    Plenty of people thought that she had a hard edge to her because of her resting face and sharp tongue, but he saw beyond that mask.

    Deep down, she was kind and thoughtful. She always asked about his day, brought him coffee or a smoothie when she went to go get her own, and made him feel special than he has ever felt in his life.

    She was the closest friend that he had, but his feelings for her had spiraled out of control. Now, he was wrestling with an intense crush on his roommate with no end in sight. He was too nervous to ask her out, and he doubted that he''d get over her.

    "You''re trouble," Liam mused teasingly, his brown eyes meeting her brown ones.

    Ying Sheng cracked an amused smile and shrugged in response, taking his words as more of apliment.

    "But you love me," she replied in a joking manner.

    If only she knew how much he cared for her.

    "Yeah, yeah. Let''s get dinner," Liam replied as he nudged her, letting her lead him down the sidewalk farther into the downtown area.

    The streets were filled with headlights as cars sped down them, tall buildings lining the sidewalks. People still ventured through downtown to grab dinner or a drink, chatting actively as they went from ce to ce. The city was alive all around them, but they stuck to their own little world as they talked about their day as they walked.

    It didn''t take long for Liam and Ying Sheng to arrive at their usual sushi shop to grab a few rolls to go. They had gone so much that the owner knew their names and their usual orders.

    Once they had their takeout bags in hand, they found their way back to Ying Sheng''s 2014 Coro to eat and listen to me Lane, a band that they both enjoyed listening to.

    "We have to y that song again!" Ying Sheng eximed before popping one of her spicy tuna rolls into her mouth, thest thrum of the electric guitar echoing throughout the car.

    "You''ve said that about every song," Liamughed out as he fumbled with his chopsticks, having to resort to jabbing at his sushi rolls to try to pick them up. He still hadn''t gotten a hand on using chopsticks, and he was too embarrassed to try to learn at that point.

    Ying Sheng watched him struggle with a smallugh before reaching out with her own chopsticks to pick one of his shrimp tempura rolls up. She offered it to him with a smile that nearly made his heart burst out of his chest.

    How could a mere smile affect him so much? It wasn''t like he wasn''t used to people being nice to him. He had a great family and nice friends, but something about her attention nearly dizzied him. She was like fire, warm and captivating, and he wouldn''t mind getting burnt by her.

    "You know, I should be doing this to you," Liammented before biting into the sushi and taking it from her. As much as he wanted to charm her into liking him, he doubted that he could have that sort of effect on someone as beautiful as her.

    "I would let you, but you''d probably poke me in the eye with your chopsticks," Ying Sheng giggled as she turned down the music and then settled back in the driver''s seat, the lights of downtown glowing in the windshield of the car.

    Liam smirked and shook his head at her joke, shifting his feet through the pile of crumbled up notes and empty protein bar wrappers on the floor of her car. He even liked her ws, and they both had plenty of them. They were young, and she was even younger at the age of twenty-one. They watched each other make mistakes, but they never judged each other. He felt safe with her.

 Chapter 297 Cutie

    <h4>Chapter 297 Cutie</h4>

    "Yeah, that wouldn''t be very romantic, huh?" He asked her, feeling his face burn at his ownment. He hoped that he hadn''t crossed a line by saying that. She was the toughest person that he knew, but he still didn''t want to make her ufortable.

    "It''d be adorable," Ying Sheng mused as she tucked her legs under her, curling up in her seat.

    Adorable. Liam almost cringed at hearing that. He felt like no matter what happened, she would always see him as her cute friend and not in the good way. He wanted to be more, but he couldn''t change herck of feelings for him. Could he?

    "We have to clean the apartment this weekend. We''ve been cking," he reminded her, drawing himself away from the topic of romance before he said something that he wouldter regret.

    With his work and her school, they were busy most of the time, and little things tended to slip through the cracks. He had forgotten to sweep the floor that week, and she had forgotten to dust the living room. They still had a lot of growing up to do, but he didn''t mind tackling that journey with her.

    Ying Sheng groaned as she tilted her head back, a sigh drifting from her.

    "I know. I''m sorry. I''ve had so many reports duetely, and my senior capstone project is eating me alive," Ying Sheng apologized as she shed him an apologetic look.

    Liam wasn''t upset with her in the slightest.

    He knew how hard she worked in school and that she wanted to open up her own bakery, which he was in full support of. They both had plenty on their te, and it wasn''t either of their faults for being busy.

    "It''s fine,Ying Sheng. We don''t have to worry about it until this weekend," he told her, not wanting her to worry about it. They still had to finish up the week, and then they had to get through the next and then the next. Life was a cycle, one that he let take him wherever.Ying Sheng fought against the current to get to where she wanted.

    Ying Sheng gave him a thankful look as she set her empty sushi box down on the middle console between them, only a few grains of rice left inside.

    "Thank you," she murmured, her soft edge shining through as it did every once in awhile. It only came out in certain moments, ones that were deep and honest between them.

    Liam felt a blush burn at his face as he gazed at her, admiring how her dark hair perfectly framed her face and how round the curves of her lips looked. There were so many things that he wanted to tell her, but he was too afraid to say them. He was scared of a lot of things, and that had cost him plenty of experiences. He felt like he had only experienced a portion of what life could be like for him, but that was his own fault.

    "What are friends for, yeah?" He replied, mentally wanting to kick himself for being so shy and weak around her. Then again, he was timid in most situations, whether she was there or not.

    Ying Sheng''s face brightened as she nodded, reaching out to gently squeeze his hand.

    "You''re the best. I must''ve done something right to deserve you," Ying Sheng told him warmly as she drew her hand away from his.

    Liam was sure that he was the lucky one to have met her. She changed his life for the better, and it wasn''t only because she saved his skin by splitting the bills with him.

    "I guess we both yed our cards right," Liam told her. The universe decided to bring them together, and he hoped that they wouldn''t be forced apart. She was a big part of his life now.

    He saw her every single day, whether it was in the morning when she dragged herself out of bed for ss when he was getting ready for work or at night when they ate dinner together and caught up. He couldn''t imagine her not being a part of his routine.

    "Well, you''re far more fun to live with than my parents," Ying Sheng muttered as she tossed her trash into the takeout bag before throwing it on the floor of the car.

    Liam kept a frown from crossing his face, knowing that her family was a sensitive topic to talk about. Her rocky rtionship with them had led to them being roommates in the first ce. He didn''t wish for her rtionship to be soplicated with them, but he was d that they were living together.

    "I think you just like bossing me around," Liam chuckled, trying to lighten the mood.

    Ying Sheng brightened up at that, an amused smile crossing her lips.

    "Aah I think you''re right. Let''s take a drive,"

    Ying Sheng told him with a mischievous look on her face. She turned around in her seat and put her car in drive, pulling out of the spot on the side of the street to head out of downtown and toward the outskirts of the city.

    Liam already knew what she was up to. Liam lived her life wildly and quickly, always chasing down the next moment. He admired her drive, but he did worry about her going too fast at times. He didn''t want her to get into too much trouble or to miss out on enjoying the moments she raced through.

    "Yourst speeding ticket didn''t teach you a lesson?" He smirked as she sped down a dim back road, the orange-hued streetlights streaking by.

    "He didn''t give me a ticket. He gave me a warning," Ying Sheng reminded him as she ced her hand under her chin in a charming manner before gripping the steering wheel.

    Ying Sheng chuckled, guessing that she had charmed her way out of a ticket. She could be sneaky, but he felt like she never tried to trick him. They were honest with each other, but he had a feeling that there were things that she didn''t tell him. At times, there seemed to be a dark cloud looming over her, and he suspected that it had to do with theplicated rtionship that she had with her family. He only knew so many details about that issue.

    "Just try not to get us killed. We still have a long life ahead of us," Liam told her as he smiled at her from the passenger''s seat.

    Ying Sheng remained quiet for a moment, the happy creases in her face fading for a moment.

    "Yeah," she replied before coaxing a smile back onto her face and then speeding up.

    Liam wanted to question thatpse in happiness, but he didn''t say anything. She was in the moment, and he didn''t want to interrupt that for her. Sometimes, it was best to step back and let her feel. When she was ready, he was sure that she would tell him. For now, he decided to just enjoy the ride and the moments that came with it.

    A/N: Hyy guys hope you''re all good! okay remember I promised giveaway before I disappeared? lol so if I remember the following people were leading in the ff order

    1. Rebecka- Carr

    2. Arit- UbongAbasi

    3. She-Oaks

    please message me at for your prize!

    Thank you for the suppport

 Chapter 298 His warmth

    <h4>Chapter 298 His warmth</h4>

    With a grunt, Ying Sheng twisted the key in the lock, unlocking the door to her and Liam''s shared apartment. She pushed the door open and kicked off her ck boots in the foyer next to his dark grey sneakers, a huff leaving her.

    "That lock is getting harder and harder to unlock," she muttered as she switched on the light to the living room.

    "I''ll put in a maintenance request for them to look at it," Liam told her as he ventured into the connected kitchen to grab a ss of water.

    Ying Sheng watched him go with a small smile, feeling grateful for his help and kindness. For so long, she had lived in a household where she felt useless and neglected. It was a ce that she didn''t belong, but at least she had Liam now, who was the person that she was closest to.

    He was shy and sweet, always going out of his way to check in on her and make sure that she was doing fine. She could never find the right words to thank him for all that he had done for her. She had known that good things woulde out of that ball her auntie hosted.

    She had never clicked with someone so instantly and deeply, like she could immediately trust him with her deepest, darkest secrets.

    However, despite that fact, she hadn''t told him everything He knew she was trying to get well and avoid killing her self . But what he doesn''t know was that at times these dark thoughts hover around her. And she wanted to keep to herself for now, ones too dark to share. They brought her down just thinking about them. She wasn''t sure if she was in the right mindset to actually speak about them out loud to someone just yet.

    "I had a great time tonight, like usual," Liam voiced as he walked out of the kitchen with two sses of water. He handed one to her with a small smile, a light dash of pink tinting the upper area of his cheeks. He tended to have a cute flush to his face.

    "What can I say? I n the best surprises," Ying Sheng smirked as she took the ss of water with a thankful look. She knew that she should''ve gone to her operations management ss and paid attention to the lecture, but she hadn''t been able to drag herself to it.

    Things were starting to slip away from her. She was in herst semester of her first year at college, and her motivation was nearly abysmal. No matter how much she tried to get it back, she struggled to charge herself up enough to get things done. It seems her parents disappearance in her life was starting to get to her.

    It was easier to abandon her responsibilities and go off the grid at times, and having Liam at her side helped a lot.

    "Well, I''ll see you bright and early before you go to your capstone ss. You are going to that one, right?" Liam chuckled as he peered at her over the rim of his ss of water.

    The thought of dragging herself out of bed in the morning, packing her backpack, and then driving all the way to campus to attend a two-hour long ss drained her right there on the spot. However, she didn''t want to worry him. She didn''t want him to know how hard the little things were for her. She worried that would scare him away from her, that he wouldn''t want to be caught in the darkness that had already captured her.

    "If my rm screams at me loud enough," Ying Sheng quipped, finding somefort in his bright smile. She wished that he could realize how much of a beacon offort he was for her. He not only saved her by agreeing to room with her, but he was a great friend to her as well. There were some things that she would talk about to him, and he would always make her feel better.

    She hoped that she made him happy too. He deserved it. He worked hard, cared for other people, and seemed to be on top of everything. She had never seen him let anyone down or cross people. He was as pure as he could be, and it made her feel like she had struck treasure when she found him.

    She had been around plenty of bad people, whether they were rude, neglectful, or sneaky. She had found herself at the hands of them all and had suffered for it. Now, she was surrounded by positivity and pureness. Yet, she was still haunted by the sadness and pain that she had experienced from before. It wouldn''t go away no matter what.

    "I''lle get you if you''re not up by the time I leave," Liam offered before lightly patting her arm.

    Sometimes, Ying Sheng just wanted to take him by the face and tell him how much he meant to her and to everyone in his life. She didn''t think that he realized that.

    "I''ll owe you a mango pineapple smoothie then," Ying Sheng replied, knowing that was his favorite. She knew a lot about him, like how he knew a lot about her. There was a level of trust between them that she didn''t share with anyone else.

    "Much better than your strawberry banana," Liam lightly teased at her with augh. During their time together they have found each other preferences.

    Ying Sheng yfully scoffed at him, aware of his indifference to bananas. They had plenty of differences, but none of them ever got in the way of their friendship.

    "Weirdo," she smirked before her expression turned softer and warmer. "Night, Cutie."

    Liam shed her a smile, one that made her heart skip a little.

    "Sleep well, Baddie" he told her with a little wave.

    Admittedly, he was cute. She tried not to think of him like that because they were roommates, and she didn''t want things to getplicated between them. She didn''t know if she could handle losing him since they had grown so close. Though, she couldn''t deny the warmth that graced her whenever he smiled at her or they met eyes for a few seconds too long.

 Chapter 299 Missing parents

    <h4>Chapter 299 Missing parents</h4>

    Sleep well, Baddie" he told her with a little wave.

    Admittedly, he was cute. She tried not to think of him like that because they were roommates, and she didn''t want things to getplicated between them. She didn''t know if she could handle losing him since they had grown so close. Though, she couldn''t deny the warmth that graced her whenever he smiled at her or they met eyes for a few seconds too long.

    Gradually, Ying Sheng cleared her thoughts away and then turned away from him to head through the living room and into a hallway that led to her bedroom. She shut the door behind her with a soft sigh, her glow gradually diminishing as silence fell upon her.

    Whenever she wasn''t with Liam , it was harder to part from reality, in which she was an unloved daughter, a lonely and a grim person.

    Once she switched on themp that was on her bedside table, her eyes shifted around the room, taking in the band posters, the mess of papers on her desk, the clothes that she didn''t feel like wearing scattered all over the floor, and the ruffled grey bed sheets that she never made. She wanted to be better than this, but it was hard to find the point of it sometimes.

    Ying Sheng peeled off her hoodie and shorts, opting for a red tank top and a pair of ck lounge shorts instead. She crawled into bed, her eyes ncing off of the empty water bottles and chip bags on her nightstand.

    She typically met up with Liam outside of her room so that he didn''t see the mess. She didn''t want him to think that she was a slob. She didn''t want her space to be messy. She just hadn''t found the motivation to tidy everything up when homework and projects lurked over her head.

    On one hand, she was d for having all of those things to do in her life. They were perfect forms of distraction for her to focus on, but she needed energy and motivation to want to do them, which shecked most of the time now. It wasn''t a mystery to her why she felt this way. It all went back to her parents.

    Now, she managed to skim on by when it came to bills.

    Before she moved in with Liam, she could technically have anything that she wanted. Her parents were a rich and sessful real estate team that traveled around the area constantly to sell property. They worked long hours away from home, but they loved chasing down the money.

    That led to Ying Sheng being left home alone a lot. She just wanted to spend time with her parents for once. She wanted to do fun things with them, like go on vacation, go bowling, or even just grab a bite to eat somewhere. However, they were always too busy for her.

    For awhile, she didn''tin about theck of time that they spent with her. She knew that they were busy with work, and that adults needed to work. However, she started seeing how her friends'' parents would still have the time to spend the weekend at least with their kids. They made an effort to act like a family, as opposed to her own.

    Ying Sheng didn''t even feel like they were a family half the time. She just felt like she was living in a house with two other strangers. They hardly acknowledged her good grades, the volunteer work that she did at local businesses, or if she had a bad day at school or not. She was a ghost, and she remained that way until she couldn''t take it anymore.

    Once she got into college, she couldn''t stay silent. She was an adult now, but they were still her parents. She deserved their attention and their care, even if they didn''t feel up to giving it to her. She called them out on how they always chose work over her, and theyshed back out at her ten times harder.

    They told her that she would grow up to be nothing if she didn''t work as hard as them. They chastised her for going out with her friends instead of staying in and working. They spat all over her ns for the future, dismissing her bakery idea and saying that she would be dead in the water before it even kicked off.

    Ying Sheng could tell that they were disappointed in her, but she was also disappointed in them. It became clear to her that she wasn''t wee in that house or even in her own family.

    At first, she was too angry at her parents to feel upset about the whole ordeal. She couldn''t believe the audacity they had to bring a child into the world only to neglect her and choose work over her. It wasn''t fair, and she was furious that she lost out on a good childhood and didn''t have family in her corner like most other people.

    However, she couldn''t change that. She couldn''t make them better people or parents. She was stuck with what she had, which was absolutely nothing. They didn''t care about her. They cared about money and sess, and she didn''t factor into that equation.

    Gradually, the anger wore off throughout the months that followed, and all that she was left with now was sadness. Despite missing some sses and cking a little, she was doing good in college, but she didn''t have a family to celebrate that with. Her new friends were wonderful, but she felt alone in the world at times.

    Ying Sheng dragged her hands over her face with a sigh, trying to coax the grim feelings away. She knew that she couldn''t control how she felt, but she was just tired of feeling this way. It drained her and crushed her that the solution wasn''t so easy to figure out and achieve. It wasn''t something so cut and dry, and she felt like it was mostly out of her hands.

    All that she could do was run from it and fill her life with distractions. If she was moving so fast, she wouldn''t have time to take in the downhill motion of her life. She was going to crash soon again, and she didn''t want Liam to see that. Thest thing that she wanted to do was to take him down with her.

    Sometimes, she couldn''t help but wonder if she had done something wrong to deserve this. Maybe she had done something wrong to her parents that made them treat her this way. Maybe she didn''t deserve Liam''s kindness, and she would eventually disappoint him too.

    The thought made her feel nauseous, her head shaking at herself. She needed to shut her mind off for the night before she slipped down into it too deep. She reached over and turned off themp, darkness cloaking her room. Once she tucked herself under the covers, she closed her eyes tightly, willing sleep toe so that she''d have enough energy to get herself out of bed the next morning.

    A/N: Please add my new book, The Beautiful Monster to your library. Thank you

 Chapter 300 Friends

    <h4>Chapter 300 Friends</h4>

    Animated chatter filled the backyard porch area of Dong Yishan''s house as Liam,Ying Sheng ,Dong Yishan, and a few other friends caught up over pizza and wine coolers. After a long week of work and school, it seemed like the perfect way to dpress.

    Liam wasn''t much for big social gatherings, but he knew everyone at the gathering. Two of the guys, Han Zigao his cousin and Zhao Li his cousin''s best friend , were his own friends that became Ying Sheng and vice-versa with Dong Yishan.

    "Oh! Let''s y a drinking game!" Dong Yishan gasped out, her grey eyes starting to grow glossy as she added to her pile of empty ss bottles near her folding chair. She tossed her blonde hair back over her shoulder before stumbling to her feet, nudging the others to put them in the spirit.

    "You just want an excuse to do something stupid," Ying Sheng smirked before taking a sip of her drink, the red liquid rushing past her lips as she tipped the bottle back. Her cheeks had a light red blush to them, but she was far more lucid than Dong Yishan and the others, who nearly cheered at the prospect of acting up.

    Liam smiled to himself as he gazed at Ying Sheng from across the porch in his own folding chair. She had her hair pulled up into a ponytail, a few strands framing her glowing face. He was d to see her so lively. He could tell that the week had worn her down, even if she tried to not let that on.

    "She doesn''t need alcohol to do that," Han Zigao chuckled as he shifted his dark green beanie over his ck hair, a few strands falling against his forehead.

    Dong Yishan scoffed as she reached out to lightly kick at his ankle.

    "Jerk. Zhao Li will y with me, won''t you?" She asked in a sickly sweet voice.

    Zhao Li was too busy downing the rest of his peach wine cooler to reply, prompting him to merely hum beneath his breath as he tilted the bottle back.

    Ying Sheng then turned to Liam, a devilish smile crossing her lips, which were lined in red lipstick.

    "Liam?" She asked him.

    "He''s not interested in your stripping games," Han Zigao mused as he patted his friend on the shoulder.

    "Or your kissing games," Ying Shengmented as she leaned back in her chair, her eyes seeming to sharpen slightly as she looked over at Dong Yishan.

    "You guys are no fun¡­ but fine," Dong Yishan huffed as she crossed her arms over her chest, covering the ck, sequined tank top that she wore with white jeans.

    When things started getting rowdy enough that bad decisions could be made, Liam tended to tap out. He didn''t feel like waking up with a massive hangover on a Sunday anyway, so he finished his second bottle and stood up. He snuck away from the group to stretch his legs as theyughed amongst themselves and voted on what game to y.

    Liam didn''t want to kill their buzz, and he didn''t mind venturing around the backyard for a little while to get some fresh air. Even during big family gatherings, he often snuck away to take a breather. When he was in front of a lot of people, he often felt frozen and nervous of making a fool of himself. He wished that he wouldn''t discourage himself so often.

    "You don''t want to y spin the bottle?"

    Liam spun around at the sound of Ying Sheng''s voice, a small flush crossing his cheeks as he watched her walk toward him. He didn''t think that she would notice that he was missing, but it warmed him that she cared enough to look for him.

    "With my luck, I''d end up kissing Han Zigao or Zhao Li" he smirked with a shake of his head. Honestly, he was more nervous about the prospect of kissing Ying Sheng , which had been something that had crossed his mind more than once. Though, doing it in front of their giggly and tipsy friends seemed closer to a nightmare.

    "Their loss," Ying Sheng giggled as she sauntered up to his side. She took his arm and leaned against his side, her cheek pressing to his shoulder as they watched their friends dance around on the porch.

    Liam was used to her sidling up to him like this, but his heart raced each and every time she touched him. How he felt for her reminded him of a hopeless schoolyard crush. She was the prettiest girl in school, and he was a shadow on the wall. However, in this case, she actually knew he existed.

    "Oh, I don''t know. I''ve only kissed like one girl before,and that is you."

    Liam admitted as he dragged his hand through the short strands of his light brown hair. That sounded more pathetic when he heard the words out loud.

    Ying Sheng tilted her head at him curiously, a surprised looking onto her face.

    "Really?" She asked him

    Liam shrugged a little as he started to slowly walk, taking her along with him as she continued to hold onto his arm.

    "It''s not that I haven''t been with girls¡­ I just like to wait and make sure it''s right before getting more serious,"

    Liam told her, hoping his words weren''t toough-worthy. He wasn''t one to rush into or through a rtionship. He wasn''t interested in casual dating or hooking up. If he was going to be with someone, to bare his soul and entrust his heart to someone else, he wanted it to feel right.

    A small smile steadily crossed Ying Sheng''s face as she nodded her understanding.

    "Yeah, that makes sense. You''d be a heartbreaker otherwise," Ying Sheng lightly teased him as she gave his arm a yful squeeze.

    Laughter burst from Liam as he shook his head at her, doubting that he was anything close to a heartbreaker. It took all of the courage that he could muster to confess to herst time.

    "How much did you drink?" Liam asked her as he raised an eyebrow at her.

    Ying Sheng smirked as she turned her head to gaze at him, their facesing close as she leaned against him.

 Chapter 301 Blooming of unknown feelings

    <h4>Chapter 301 Blooming of unknown feelings</h4>

    Come on,Liam. You act like you''re so undesirable," she replied pointedly.

    Liam''s eyes briefly flickered down to her lips, which gleamed from her usual burgundy lipstick. He would be lying if he imed to have never thought about saying "screw it" and kissing her. He knew that she tasted sweet, from their previous kisses but he was just a little less prevalent than his fear of ruining what they shared together now.

    "I guess I just don''t think of myself that way," Liam admitted. The only girl that he was interested in captivating was her, and it didn''t seem like he had that effect on her. Regardless, he was just happy that they were close. Things could be worse.

    Without her, he''d probably be locked up in his apartment most of the time without much drive but to work and survive. She encouraged him to get out of the house and have some fun every once in awhile, which he was grateful for. He hated that he needed that extra push just to put himself out there, but it was nice of her to always encourage him.

    "You''re humble. You know¡­ Dong Yishan was interested in you at a time," Ying Shengmented, her eyes shifting to the porch quickly, like she had shared a secret that she wasn''t supposed to tell.

    Liam''s eyes widened in shock, not expecting to hear that from her. He didn''t feel like he was really Dong Yishan''s type, which seemed to be louder, wilder party boys. She was pretty and funny, but she wasn''t entirely his type either.

    "At a time?" He chuckled, wondering what eventually turned her away. Was it his refusal to drink more than five shots in a night or his social awkwardness?

    Ying Sheng lightly pressed her teeth into her bottom lip as she shrugged.

    "Until we became roommates," she replied before unraveling herself from his arm. She turned to him with a small smile, her eyes seeming to search his.

    "Oh, yeah. Probably would be weird if we got together or something," Liam chuckled lightly, figuring that was what she was meaning.

    Ying Sheng''s small smile seemed to wilt a little, but sheughed instead.

    "Right¡­ totally weird," She murmured beneath her breath as she sped her hands together behind her back.

    Liam didn''t know why she was acting so strange. Had he said something to upset her? He took a step closer to her, offering her a small smile.

    "You good?" He asked her, feeling nervous to ask, but he cared too much about her to not ask. He didn''t want her to be upset over anything.

    Ying Sheng parted her lips to reply, but she paused, a weak smile crossing her lips instead. She nodded and reached out to take his arm again.

    "I''m fine. I could use another drink, though. How about you?" She asked him, her eyshes batting slowly as she gazed up at him.

    Liam had a feeling she was avoiding saying what was on her mind, but he wasn''t going to push her. Whenever she was ready to talk, she knew where to find him. He was always close by.

    "Sounds good," Liam replied as he led her back to the house.

    Dong Yishan ,Han Zigao, and Zhao Li had moved inside into the kitchen already, taking the drinks from the porch with them. Their chatter andughter echoed throughout the house as Liam and Ying Sheng found their way inside, heading to the fridge to dig out two more wine coolers to sip on throughout the night until they could break themselves away.

    "I was wondering where you two snuck off to together," Dong Yishan smirked at them as she curled up on one side of her beige polyester couch next to Han Zigao and Zhao Li.

    "Just took a walk," Liam replied with an innocent smile. He already knew what Dong Yishan was teasing at, and it didn''t help that his cousin and his friend were giving him knowing looks. He figured that since he was rooming with Ying Sheng that their friends figured they were together, which wasn''t the case. Unfortunately.

    He supposed that it didn''t help that Ying Sheng and him were super close too. They did nearly everything together because they had the same interests and never seemed to grow tired of being around each other. Their friends could think whatever they wanted to, but he wished they weren''t so obvious about it. He just didn''t want to hear Ying Sheng''s insistent denial of liking him in that way.

    "That was a long walk," Zhao Li chuckled as he swept a few strands of his brown hair back, eyeing Liam and Ying Sheng as they moved to sit on a smaller loveseat across from their friends. A coffee table with their drinks on it separated them.

    "Aw, were you guys so bored that you had to time us for entertainment?" Ying Sheng fake pouted at them as she rested her back against the cushion of the couch.

    Liam smiled to himself at her attitude, feeling his heart start to speed up a little. He liked how much of a bite she had. She was tough

    "Well, we were waiting for you because we were going to y tipsy Connect Four," Dong Yishan mused as she reached under the coffee table to pull out the game box from the underlying shelf. She slid it onto the surface of the coffee table with an excited smile. "Pick your partner!"

    Ying Sheng''s face brightened at the sight of her favorite drinking game, one that she never denied ying. It was fun, fast-paced, andpetitive, which was everything that she seemed to enjoy. She turned to look at Liam with an excited smile before a sheepish look crossed her face.

    Liam realized that she probably thought that he wasn''t up to ying. However, he knew how much she liked this game, and he could admit that he liked watching people y it. It wasn''t the typical type of game he yed because it wasn''t on a screen, but he figured he could give it a try. They were already a team anyway.

    "Come on, let''s do it," he told her with a nod. He had to get over his anxious edge sometimes. If he messed up, he could easily me it on the alcohol. Besides, anything that he did, Dong Yishan would somehow outdo.

    Ying Sheng shed him a grateful smile as she nudged his shoulder with hers. She turned back around with apetitive look on her face.

    "Got my team. Which are you going to pick? Can''t aim for his own good or sore loser?" Ying Sheng giggled under her hand as she looked between the other boys.

    Dong Yishan looked over at the boys with an unimpressed expression, a sigh breaking from her.

    "You guys y against each other, and I''ll take the winner for my teammate."

    Liam smirked as he watched the boys prepare for their own game, his eyes soon breaking from the scene to look over at Ying Sheng . He still couldn''t help but wonder what was on her mind earlier.

    She only acted shy like that every once in awhile, and she typically didn''t reveal what she was thinking about. All that he could do was wait and see. He had thoughts of his own that he hadn''t revealed to her yet, but maybe that would eventually change the closer they gravitated toward each other.

 Chapter 302 Blooming of unknown feelings(2)

    <h4>Chapter 302 Blooming of unknown feelings(2)</h4>

    Ying Sheng''s business n for her bakery gradually to blur in front of her eyes as she stared at herptop screen for continuous minutes. She blinked her eyes a few times and gave her head a shake, trying to jar herself and hoping that some inspiration would strike her.

    She couldn''t estimate how long she had been sitting in her room, attempting to put some more work into the project that she needed to pass in order to finish the semester.

    Usually, just the thought of failing and thinking about how her parents would react was enough to kick her into gear to get her work done. She longed for her parents'' approval for so long, wishing that they would at least notice her and the hard work that she did. However, they dismissed her, and the fear of falling short didn''t do the trick anymore.

    She was still a little hungover fromst night, which didn''t do her any favors right now, but at least she had some fun with her friends. She had been so happy when Liam agreed to team up with her to y Connect Four. He typically shied away from drinking games, which she didn''t me him for. Things could get crazy. Regrettable actions were made. She almostmitted onest night.

    When they were walking and talking about him and his history with girls and kisses, she had almost strayed too far into territory that was anything but tonic. It wasn''t that she wanted to stay away from that area, but she was worried about darkening his world.

    Sure, they lived together and he was aware of some of the things that haunted her, but she withheld a lot from him. She didn''t spill it all to him, and she was afraid to. It would feel like she was passing on a curse and changing his perspective on her.

    She wouldn''t be seen as fun and spontaneous. She would be seen as crushed and spiraling. Despite that being true, she didn''t want him to see her as that. There were glimpses of the true version of her that came out when they were together, and if anyone was going to bring her back to herself, it would be him.

    Why would she put that pressure on him, though? How she felt and how she reacted was her own doing. That was on her, and she didn''t feel nearly important enough to crawl to Liam for help. She probably didn''t deserve it in the first ce.

    Liam embodied so much of what she wanted to be, including smart, funny, and sweet. He deserved every ounce of love that he received. His parents didn''t turn their back on him. His friends loved him for who he was, and she wished that she could get closer to his warm and weing spirit.

    Ying Sheng couldn''t bring herself to ruin what they had going for them, not over her own emotions. He had so much to worry about with work and seeing his family, and she wasn''t about to disrupt his life. She cared about him too much for that. She wanted the best for him, which meant she couldn''t ransack his life with her own issues.

    After a few more minutes of silence and stillness, a sigh broke from her as she shut herptop, figuring she could try againter. She was tired of being stuck in her room for so long. Her eyes automatically shifted to her bedroom door. She knew who was beyond it, and that thought made her forget about everything else for a few blissful seconds.

    Maybe she shouldn''t bother him, but she couldn''t deny the appeal of seeing him and talking to him. It sounded way better than isting herself in her room and reminding herself of theck of work that she had done. She eventually broke down and headed out of her bedroom, venturing down the hall to Liam''s bedroom, where he always kept the door cracked, like he weed her to pop in whenever.

    "Knock knock," she called out as she lightly pushed the door open to step into the dark room. The only way she could see him was through the LED light strips surrounding his room and the lights shing from hisputer.

    Liam pulled his ck headset off as he tore his eyes from hisrgeputer monitor, a first person shooter game ying on the screen. A smile immediately crossed his face when he spotted her, prompting him to turn in his blue and ck gaming chair to face her.

    "Hey, what''s up?" He asked her.

    Ying Sheng didn''t have any good excuse for why she was in his room besides just wanting hispany. He always made her feel at least a little bit better and distracted her thoughts from whatever was bothering her. She swore that it had to be some sort of superpower.

    "Came to bother you for a little bit," Ying Sheng told him as she strode into the room, perking herself up as she stopped beside his gaming chair.

    "You never bother me," Liam assured her as he reached out to pause his game, shifting his focus to her.

    That was nice of him to say. Ying Sheng hoped that he meant it. He was so nice that she couldn''t help but wonder if there were things that he had said to be nice that ended up not being true.

    She couldn''t imagine him ever wanting to purposely hurt anyone''s feelings. That was one of the many reasons why she regarded him as one of the best people she had ever met in the entirety of the world.

    "Want some nachos with that cheesiness?" Ying Sheng teased at him as she ced her hand on his shoulder.

    Liam burst outughing at her words, giving his head a shake.

    "Alright, alright. How''s your business ning along?" Liam asked her.

    Ying Sheng sighed softly as she shrugged, not even having the energy to lie about her progress with that. He knew that it was a big and daunting project for her, even if it was on something that she was passionate about. The fact of that actually put more pressure on her to do as close to perfect work as she could on her business n.

 Chapter 303 Uncontrollably fond

    <h4>Chapter 303 Uncontrobly fond</h4>

    The fact of that actually put more pressure on her to do as close to perfect work as she could on her business n.

    The bakery was her idea of paradise. It would be a cheerful ce where families coulde and enjoy their time together. They could sample the desserts, listen to upbeat music, and admire the murals she would have painted on all of the walls. She would have cute promotional events and team up with local organizations.

    Families could have fun anywhere, even a little bakery, if they truly tried. It was reflective of what she wished she had experienced in her childhood, and she believed it would be healing to witness all of those happy familiese into her bakery. She would be exposed to positivity and care, and maybe she could feed off of it a little.

    Plus, she loved sweets. Her family harped on her to not eat too many or she''d gain weight and get cavities. Whenever the nanny wasn''t around, she would sneak snacks to her room so that she could munch on them for ate night snack. She just made sure to brush her teeth good so that she didn''t end up with any cavities to rat her out.

    "Coming along a little slowly. The worst part is I know what I need to do, but it''s just so tedious putting it into words," Ying Sheng exined to him. She wished that she could paste her thoughts onto the document, but it would still probably be a jumbled mess that would fail her.

    "Hey, just take everything one little thing at a time. A point at a time. Then, it won''t seem like so much work," Liam pointed out to her.

    Ying Sheng knew that Liam had a much better work ethic than her. He was able to focus and break things down to get them done as effectively as possible, which wasn''t what she expected when she first found out he was a game developer. She expected him to be a little messy and chaotic, honestly. However, he turned out to be tidy and organized, while she was the one all over the ce.

    "Yeah, you''re right. I think I''m just letting it overwhelm me," Ying Sheng murmured, a sincere smile creeping onto her lips as the weight on her shoulders slowly lifted. If he had faith in her, she figured that she could have a little more faith in herself. It was her passion project after all. It wouldn''te true unless she brought it to life.

    "You''ve got this. Stop thinking it''s too out of reach," Liam lightly chided her as he reached up to pat her hand.

    Ying Sheng felt warmth grace her at his kind touch, her smile brightening. She really didn''t know what she would do without him. Every day, she was reminded of her gratitude for him. He had given her more support and encouragement than her parents had ever given her. He was basically her only family.

    "You should be a motivational speaker," she teased at him. Her boldness soon disappeared when he reached out and started tickling her sides, making her writhe andugh out as she tried to avoid his hands.

    Liam grabbed at her hips to keep her from running away,ughter bubbling from him as she fought against him.

    Ying Sheng suddenly tripped over the leg of his gaming chair, making her fall back against him into hisp. She grabbed at his shoulders to anchor herself to him so that she didn''t topple off of him.

    When she finally settled, she turned to meet his wide eyes, her heart hammering against her chest. She didn''t mean to basically jump into hisp, but there she was.

    "Oops," sheughed softly, trying to break the tension. However, that was nearly impossible. She had never been so close to him for a while now, and she couldn''t help but pick up the nice smell of his shampoo.

    Liam was tense beneath her, his hands gingerly touching her hips. His face had a definite red tint to it as he stared up at her.

    "My fault¡­ it was my fault," he stumbled over his words.

    Ying Sheng found his bashfulness cute. Though, she did know that he didn''t like how shy he could get. She didn''t think anything was wrong with being shy. He was more receptive to the world and to other people, and he was aware of his boundaries. She envied that and wished she didn''t throw herself into the storm so much.

    "Yeah, you''re right. I get to crush you because you tickled me!" Ying Sheng smirked as she wiggled in hisp out of retaliation. She heard him grunt in response, making her freeze when she realized that she was basically grinding against him. Now, it was her turn to blush because she had only made the situation even more tense.

    She knew that she could''ve easily just stood up to end this all, but she couldn''t help but like being in hisp. He was warm, and she could feel how firm his body was under his ck T-shirt and joggers. Even if it was gentle, she liked how he was holding her. She wouldn''t mind if he didn''t let go.

    Liam''s grip tightened on her waist, his lips parting briefly as his eyes squeezed shut for a moment. When he opened them back up, they almost looked a tint darker than normal.

    "Yeah, maybe I deserved that," he murmured lowly.

    Ying Sheng''s eyes nearly widened at his tone. She had never heard him speak like that before, and she would be lying if she said that it didn''t make heat rush right between her thighs. Her eyes shifted down to his lips briefly, feeling a slight pull toward him. She couldn''t help it. He was right there.

    But what would happen if she kissed him? What if he didn''t want that? She could''ve easily been reading into this too much. Typically, she would just dive headfirst into something like this, but she felt different when it was him. She didn''t want to rush. She didn''t want to risk what they had because it would destroy her to lose it.

    "Well, I better get back to work," she told him, letting her fear take over her desire. She wanted to kick herself, but she also wanted to be cautious. It was a furious game of tug-of-war in her head. She eased herself off of him and smoothed her university T-shirt down over her shorts.

    Liam drew in a deep breath through his nose as he nodded. He adjusted his pants a little as he sat up in his chair, casting his eyes down away from hers.

    "Alright," he replied, his tone dipping down in volume.

    Ying Sheng frowned as she slowly turned away from him, feeling like something was off between them now. Maybe she had gone too far. She wished she could take it back, but it was already done. Lowering her head, she started to head toward the door of his room, a dark cloud looming over her head. She was about to leave when he suddenly spoke up, stopping her in her steps.

    "Don''t leave."

 Chapter 304 Dreams do come true

    <h4>Chapter 304 Dreams doe true</h4>

    Liam couldn''t believe that those words actually left his mouth. He kept hearing them over and over in his head because he didn''t want her to leave, but he didn''t expect himself to actually say them out loud to her. Now, she was staring at him, and all that he could do was stare back.

    When she hadnded in hisp and started ying around, he had a hard time finding his sense of control. She was so beautiful and alluring, and with her staring into his eyes when she was so close, all he wanted to do was kiss her. He still wanted to kiss her, to recapture the intensity of that moment that he had let slip away.

    "You don''t have to go if you don''t want to," Liam managed to murmur, trying to get his bearings. She kept getting so close to him, and he kept letting her slip away from him. It was torturous locking up his feelings for her when it would be so easy to just give in and spill everything on his mind.

    Ying Sheng slowly took a few steps closer to him, a confused look filling her face as she gazed at him.

    "Are you okay?" Ying Sheng asked him, seeming tense.

    Liam was okay and also far from okay at the same time. He was with her, which was great, but he was also burdened with a head full of chaotic thoughts that he couldn''t properly sift through. He felt like he was about to explode. He wanted to be honest with her, but he was also scared. It came down to what feeling was stronger in that moment.

    "I like you," he blurted out before pressing his hand against his mouth in shock. It seemed like he had no filter today.

    Ying Sheng stared at him with an equal amount of shock written all over her face. She parted her lips to say something, but no words came out. Instead, silence filled the room. Even though he had told her how he felt about her before, Ying Sheng didn''t really believed him at first. She thought he was confused and scared about hermitting suicide at that time but something felt differently today.

    Liam slowly stood from his gaming chair, not knowing what to make of her speechlessness. It was either a good thing or a bad thing. However, he did have a lot more to say on the matter, and he decided to take advantage of the silence.

    "I''m sorry if that makes you ufortable. I just¡­ can''t help how I feel anymore. I know I already told you and I never mentioned it again because I thought you needed time to heal but I''d love the chance to just take you out on a date," Liam spilled to her, merely wanting one opportunity to show her how much she meant to him. However, if she didn''t want to give him that chance, that was her decision that he would respect. All he wanted was for her to be happy.

    Ying Sheng''s face gradually softened, a look of interest appearing on her face instead.

    "You want to take me out on a date?" Ying Sheng asked him as she tilted her head at him.

    Liam nodded, figuring that would be a good ce to start. They could see if there was any romantic chemistry between them before they chose to move forward or not.

    "Just like to dinner or something fun," he told her, hoping that she would be interested in a night out with him. He knew that she probably wouldn''t care for a traditional dinner with wine and stale conversation. He would have to think of something a little outside of the box if she agreed.

    Ying Sheng hummed softly, seeming intrigued. She didn''t say anything for a few more moments, the tension in the room increasing.

    "I think I''d like that," Ying Sheng told him as a yful smile crossed her lips.

    Liam realized she had made him sit there and stew on purpose. A relieved sigh broke from him as he shook his head at her. He hadn''t been able to even breathe during those few seconds when she hadn''t said anything. At least he had his answer now, and he had a chance to show her that maybe they would be a good match together.

    "I know it''s kind of risky for us to date, but I''d like to see if we can make it work," he told her, watching her closely as she moved closer to him.

    Ying Sheng stopped right in front of him, a bold look adorning her face.

    "Me too. I do like you, but I don''t want to mess up what we have," she exined to him as she reached up to lightly trail her fingertips through his hair.

    Liam nearly shuddered at the soft touch. It was crazy how much of an impact she had on him, but he didn''t mind the trance. He also understood her concerns because he shared them. As much as he liked her, he would rather have her as a friend than not have her in his life at all. He just hoped that this first date worked out for the best.

    "Me either. If things get weird or tense, we''ll stop. I just want to see where this goes," he promised her as he tentatively reached out to take her hand. He could feel his own threatening to shake, but he gathered what control he had left to steady himself.

    As much as he fantasized about this moment, he didn''t actually think that it would happen. This felt like a dream that he could wake up from at any moment, which he hoped he never did. He had a chance to woo the girl of his dreams, and he wasn''t about to drop the ball now.

    "It''ll be fun. I''m interested to see your romantic side," Ying Sheng giggled into her free hand as she let him pull her closer.

    Herughter was like music to his ears, even if she was teasing at him. He knew that was her form of affection. As much as he wanted to draw her even closer and kiss her, he wanted to save that for the right moment. His kissing rule still applied to her, and he didn''t want to rush anything anyway. He wanted things to y out perfectly, which meant setting the pace right.

 Chapter 305 Love blooms

    <h4>Chapter 305 Love blooms</h4>

    Oh, you want to be wined and dined?" Liam chuckled as he yfully held her waist with his other hand in a slow dancing pose. He realized that was kind of dorky, but he had alreadymitted to the pose. There was no backing out now.

    "Wine is gross," Ying Shengughed out as she swayed with him.

    "Fine, Dr. Pepper and¡­ Thai food?" Liam asked as they moved slowly, lifting an eyebrow at her. He had found plenty of empty Dr. Pepper cans in their recycling bin, and he couldn''t count how many times she had dragged him to a Thai ce to eat.

    "Wow, you do know me," Ying Sheng murmured in awe.

    Liam did know her. At least on the surface. He knew the little things that she probably didn''t expect him to remember, like what her favorite coffee creamer was or what show she liked to watch the most. Increasingly, he noticed that she would be down at times, and he wasn''t sure if it was solely because of school or not.

    "I want our date to be fun, and luckily, I know what you like," Liam pointed out before yfully twirling her. It was a perk of living with her. She told him the things that she liked, even if she didn''t realize it.

    "I know you too. Like, I know that you don''t do well with spicy food, so you might want to choose something else besides Thai," Ying Sheng giggled as their hands reconnected.

    "I can take the pain for you," Liam mused, wondering how she was never phased by the spiciness. It made him feel like his face was on fire, but at least it tasted good.

    "Brave too? You''re quite the catch," Ying Sheng murmured as she smiled at him warmly.

    Liam hoped that was the case. He knew that he wasn''t the smoothest or most charming guy on the. He stumbled over his words. He could be awkward. However, he only had her best interests in mind. Maybe that would be enough.

    "So, are you free next Friday night?" Liam asked her, hating that he had to wait so long, but they were both so busy during the week. He didn''t want them to have to rush through the date so that they could get home at a decent time to get to sleep. He wanted the night to go on as long as they wanted it to.

    "You know it, and I''d skip anything if I wasn''t," Ying Sheng quipped excitedly.

    Liam smiled as they slowly came to a stop, their danceing to an end. He held her close for a few more moments before releasing her.

    "Then, I''ll pick you up from your bedroom door at six on Friday night," Liam told her, figuring that was as romantic as he could get since they lived together. Things would have to y out a little differently since they were roommates.

    "Sounds like a date," Ying Sheng replied with a bold smile that nearly knocked the breath from him.

    "You better go get some work done now because you won''t have any time for it Friday night,"Liam suggested as he yfully nudged her toward the door. He didn''t want her to go, but he knew that she had plenty of work that needed to be done. He didn''t want her to stress about it during their date.

    "Yeah, yeah," Ying Sheng groaned.

    Liam parted his lips to reply when his phone suddenly rang from his desk. He leaned over to grab it, a sheepish smileing onto his face.

    "Sorry, it''s my mom," he told her. His mom checked in on him from time to time, making sure that he was doing okay and not in any trouble. He was close to his family growing up, so he didn''t mind the random calls.

    Ying Sheng''s face seemed to drop a little, but she caught herself and smiled.

    "Oh, okay. I''ll talk to youter," she murmured quietly before heading out of the room.

    Liam frowned as he watched her go, wondering why she had looked so crestfallen. Maybe she would tell himter. Right now, he had to answer his mom''s call because she would automatically assume the worst if he didn''t pick up the phone. He clicked on the answer button and brought the phone up to his ear.

    "Hey, Mom," he greeted her.

    "Hi, sweetie. Everything going okay?"

    Liam felt a smile creep across his lips. Things were great now. He wanted to tell his mom about him going on a date with Ying Sheng , who she was fond of, but he didn''t want to jinx anything.

    "Things are good. Work is busy," Liam told her, giving her the highlights instead of boring her with the details. He doubted that she would understand a word he said if he tried to exin what he did at work to her.

    "That''s good to hear! How''s Ying Sheng? I bet she''s working hard since her semester ising to an end so soon," his mom asked.

    "She''s definitely busy, but I think she''s good," Liam murmured as he moved to sit back in his gaming chair. It was nice of his mom to ask, even if she had only met Ying Sheng once when she came to visit. His mom was the type to take his friends in as her own children, which made his house the ce to hang out at when he was younger.

    "Oh, good! I just wanted to check in. I hope you''re not working too hard," his mom fretted.

    Liam knew his mom still worried over him. He and his brother was the only children and his brother was never around, so to his mother he was still her baby. He almost felt bad about growing up and moving out because he knew how much she enjoyed hispany. He tried to make the hour drive to visit as much as he could, but work ate up a lot of his time and he was tired on the weekend.

    "I''m not, Mom. I''m getting plenty of rest, which you need to be doing now. It''ste," Liam told her within a lightugh. His mom was a teacher, so he knew how busy she could get. He remembered seeing her return homepletely drained from a long day of teaching at the middle school.

    "Oh, I know. I know," his momughed out. "I love you, honey."

    "I love you too," Liam replied before bidding her goodbye and hearing the line go dead. He lowered his phone back down to the desk and leaned back in his chair, taking a moment to just revel in everything that had happened. He had actually asked Ying Sheng out. It was probably something that wasn''t a big deal to some people, but it meant the world to him.

    He had some nning to do, but he was up to the task and determined to make Friday night one that she would remember. Social events were usually Ying Sheng''s thing, but he was actually excited about nning this one out. It would be fun for both of them with a little dash of romance included.

    The worst part was having to wait all the way until Friday, and he knew that the week was going to drag by as slow as possible. It would be torture, but at least it would give him enough time to n the date out. He turned to hisputer screen and quit his game, not interested in ying anymore. He had more pressing matters at hand and a little research to do.

 Chapter 306 Date night

    <h4>Chapter 306 Date night</h4>

    Ying Sheng ventured in front of the tall mirror that she had propped up against a wall in her bedroom more times than she could count. She ced her hands on her hips above the soft fabric of the ck skater dress that she wore, a huff sounding from her.

    She had added waves to her hair, done an impressive eyeliner wing, and dressed in her nicest dress and pair of ck dotted tights with her white boots and she still didn''t feel like it was good enough. She ced her hands behind her head and breathed in deeply, trying to calm her nerves.

    She hadn''t been on a date in a minute, and the fact that it was with Liam made her even more nervous. She had been shocked when he came out and told her that he liked her, and she had felt incredibly happy that they were on the same page. However, she told herself to not dive into this like usual. She wanted to take things slow to make sure it was right.

    A simple date wouldn''t hurt anything. She could get a feel for the territory and see if they could make a rtionship work, which she dearly hoped they could. Hanging on the arm of her sweet and cute roommate seemed like a dream, but she had to get over herself so that she could even get out the door tonight.

    Ying Sheng fluffed her hair a little before nodding, figuring she looked good enough. She reached out and grabbed her phone, sending a text to Liam to let him know that she was ready to go. She then waited nervously by her door, collecting herself as much as she could so that she wasn''t a bundle of nerves tonight. She wanted to have fun and let loose after a long week, and she had the perfect date to do that with.

    A knock then sounded on her door, prompting Ying Sheng to draw in a deep breath before pulling open her bedroom door. Her eyes traced over Liamas he stood in the hallway with a short sleeve, ck button down on and grey jeans. His hair was fixed back, and she could even detect the slightest scent of cologneing from him.

    "Wow, you look¡­ incredible," Liam murmured, looking starstruck as he gazed at her.

    Ying Sheng felt heat tease at her face as she smiled at him. He looked great in his joggers and T-shirts, but he also looked really amazing now.

    "You clean up very nicely," she told him before shing him a yful wink. It helped her to y around a little because it calmed her own nerves. If she could get themughing, she wasn''t worrying about saying something wrong or being too nervous.

    Liam chuckled and extended his arm out for her to take.

    "Shall we? I have quite the night nned," he replied.

    Ying Sheng was excited to see what he had in mind. He had refused to spill any secrets during the entire week, so she knew that he was really dedicated to this date. It already seemed like more effort than any other guy had put in for her.

    "Rollerding and pizza?" Ying Sheng pitched another guess. It was probably her twentieth one, and she hadn''t gotten it right yet.

    Liam smirked and shook his head at her as he led her out of the hallway and toward the front door of their apartment.

    "Even if you guess right, I''m not telling you. You''ll just have to wait and see,"Liam told her sternly before leading her outside. He locked the door behind them and then brought her out to his ck sedan in the nearby parking lot. He reached out to open the passenger door for her, a sweet smile adorning his face.

    "What a gentleman," Ying Sheng giggled as she lowered herself into the passenger seat. Once he shut the door behind her, she watched him jog over to his side, a lightugh sounding from her. They hadn''t even reached their destination yet, and she was already having a good time with him. Then again, she hadn''t expected anything different.

    Liam shut the door behind him and then handed her his phone.

    "You get to pick the music," he told her before starting his car, the engine rumbling to life.

    Ying Sheng shed him a grateful look before putting an indie rock ylist on shuffle, figuring there would be a few songs on there that they liked. As much as she loved music, she really just wanted to focus on him tonight.

    "Thank you for taking me out," she told him, being serious for a moment. She could y around all she wanted, but it really made her happy that he asked her out. It was like he was whisking her away, taking her on a small adventure for the night away from her troubles.

    Liam nced over at her with a small grin.

    "Thanks for agreeing to go out with me," he chuckled as he pulled out of his parking spot and started heading down the street away from therge apartmentplex.

    Ying Sheng wished he didn''t doubt himself so much. There was so much good to him that he didn''t even realize. She was determined to make him realize that about himself, and tonight was a perfect night to do that.

    "How could I say no when you look like that?" She replied as she yfully rubbed his arm. She could tell that he was a little nervous, and she wanted to encourage him to loosen up and rx.

    "Wow, you''re so smooth," Liam mused as he turned down another street, the streetlights shing past them as darkness surrounded them.

    Ying Sheng drew her hand away from him with augh, d to hear him joking around. She turned back forward, studying the scene as he brought them to an area of town that she didn''t recognize. She narrowed her eyes in confusion, trying to figure out where he was taking her. She did notice that the buildings were bing less prominent, and the area had a little more nature to it than other areas.

    "Are you taking me to the woods to kill me?"

 Chapter 307 Mr. Giver

    <h4>Chapter 307 Mr. Giver</h4>

    Ying Sheng gasped out in fake excitement.

    "You wish,"Liam chuckled before taking another turn.

    Ying Sheng leaned closer to peer out of the windshield, her eyes steadily widening at the sight of a park up ahead with a parking lot full of different kinds of food trucks, along with tables to sit and eat at. String lights adorned the top of the food trucks, making them glow through the darkness.

    "No way," she murmured as she turned to look at Liam in shock. She never would''ve guessed this.

    "Pretty cool, huh?" Liam asked her as he pulled into a parking spot near a few other cars. He shed her a grin before heading out of the car and then going over to her side to open her door for her.

    "It''s amazing," Ying Sheng told him sincerely as she stepped out and gazed around at the area. Even the park was lit up with lights that were strung from the trees over the walking path. It was romantic and fun all at the same time, and she had to hand it to him that he had done a great job nning this out.

    Liam gently took her hand, a light dash of red adorning his face as he looked over at her.

    Ying Sheng gave his hand a squeeze, letting him know that she was ready for their date to begin. The thought of that almost stole her breath away, but she recaptured it. When he started moving, she walked at his side, feeling excitement swell inside of her chest as she looked at the six food trucks parked in front of them.

    "I don''t even know where to begin," she admitted within augh. She saw food trucks with Puerto Rican, Japanese, Italian, and Dominican cuisine, while the other two served juices, smoothies, and ice cream. All of it sounded good right now, and she was starving.

    "Let''s find an appetizer," Liam suggested as he led her in front of the food trucks so that they could nce over the menus that were posted near the ordering window.

    After looking around for a few minutes and discussing what would be a good starter for them to share, they decided on splitting papas locas from the Puerto Rican food truck. Ying Sheng had a bounce to her step as she carried the ck to-go box to one of the empty pic tables. She sat across from Liam and opened the box up, an excited sound breaking from her at the sight.

    The box was full of French fries that were topped with cheese, grilled onions, mayonnaise, ketchup, and pork. The aroma was bold and savory, prompting Ying Sheng to take her fork and pick up a few fries to bite into.

    Liam followed suit, scooping up all of the vors and chewing steadily as he took them in. His eyes gradually widened in awe.

    "Wow, that''s really good," he chuckled before digging back into the box with his fork.

    "That totally puts chili cheese fries to shame," Ying Sheng agreed as she jabbed at a few more fries to pick them up with her fork. They ate out a lot together, but they typically ate at the same ces most of the time. They only ventured out to try new things every once in awhile, and she was d that they went outside of the norm tonight or she never would''ve discovered these.

    "Right?" Liammented, sharing a smile with her from across the table.

    Ying Sheng knew that they were on their first date, but it honestly felt like any other fun night with him. She was already sofortable with him, and one of the only things that would change between them was the physical aspect of their rtionship.

    When people were in a romantic rtionship instead of just a friendship, things got more intimate between them. The thought made heat flush all through her body. She figured that would be one of the tests to see if they would be any good together. Intimacy was important, and she hoped that they would click as well as they did mentally. However, all that would take ceter. They were taking things slow for now.

    "So, when did you start liking me?" Ying Sheng asked him within a lightugh, knowing the question would make him blush.

    Liam yfully groaned and threw his head back before shaking it. He smiled bashfully as he stared down into the steadily emptying to-go box.

    "Not too long after we met. There''s just¡­ something about you," Liam murmured, thest few words sounding like a mumble as he grew shy.

    Ying Sheng felt warmth bloom in her chest at his words. She wasn''t used to such sincerepliments. Her ex-boyfriends told her she was hot and looked good in a skirt, but those weren''tpliments. They were attempts to get her in their bed. She certainly didn''t receive any high praise from her parents, so Liam''s words meant more to her than she could properly exin.

    "I''ve always thought you were cute. When we started living together and I really got to know you even more, I realized that you were one of the best people I''ve ever met," Ying Sheng told him, wanting to be honest about that.

    She kept things from him, but she wanted him to know how she saw him and that he meant a lot to her. He wasn''t just a roommate or a friend. He felt like so much more to her, which was why she wanted to try this date out. Maybe there could be more to them.

    Liam rested his cheek against his hand as he smiled into his palm.

    "Damn, you''re making me feel like the girl on this date," he chuckled.

    "Guys deserve to be fawned over too," Ying Sheng pointed out before popping thest few fries in her mouth. She wiped her hands off on a napkin before gathering the trash and standing up. "Main course? I mean¡­ I''m already looking at one¡­"

    Liam scoffed at her yfully as he stood from the table and joined her side. He wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close, her hip bumping against his.

    "Your appetite doesn''te anywhere close to mine," he murmured in a low voice.

    Ying Sheng was sure that her eyes grew into huge circles as she stared at him, feeling surprised at his boldness. It was new¡­ and pretty sexy. She knew that he was a virgin, but she had this whisper in the back of her mind that told her that he would treat her right in bed. He seemed like a giver, but she was too.

    An amusedugh then broke from Liam as he switched to his usual demeanor. He motioned for her to follow him toward the food trucks so that they could pick something else to eat next.

    Ying Sheng followed along quietly, willing herself to get herself under control. Those things cameter, but she couldn''t help but think about getting tangled up in the sheets with him. He was alluring in unexpected ways, ones that struck her harder than what she was used to.

    She wasn''t sure why yet. Maybe it was because she never expected this to happen or because he seemed so innocent. Regardless, she''d have her eyes on him all night, while struggling to keep her hands off of him for now.

 Chapter 308 Mr. Romantic

    <h4>Chapter 308 Mr. Romantic</h4>

    Liam''s romantic n for sitting on the edge of the park''ske turned into a quest to search for the frogs that were noisily chirping somewhere in the shallow edges of the water. He shined his phone shlight along the grassy shore, trying to track down the noise as Ying Sheng walked at his side.

    "What are we even doing?" He couldn''t help but chuckle, unsure of how they got from walking around and eating churros to searching for frogs. He was pretty sure it had been Ying Sheng''s idea.

    "I want to see what beast of a frog is making so much racket," Ying Sheng smirked as she lowered herself down into a crouch, sweeping her phone light along the edge of theke. She then paused and quietly motioned for him to get down next to her.

    Liam crouched down near her and followed her finger as it pointed ahead of her. He peered at the beam of her shlight, seeing its light catch onto a pair of beady eyes in the water.

    "That frog isn''t even the size of my palm," he chuckled quietly when he realized it was particrly small, yet still making a loud enough chirp to sound through the park.

    Ying Sheng huffed, an amused smile breaking out across her face as she turned her head to gaze at him.

    "Oh, well. It''s cute, though," she giggled.

    Liam nearly held his breath when he realized how close they were crouching to each other. To him, the date had been going perfectly. Things were casual and fun, and they remained in sync with each other. There was no awkwardness, but he did get shy from time to time. He couldn''t help it. He was on a date with a girl he mentally drooled over.

    "You''re cute," hemented before standing up and switching his phone light off.

    "Oh, someone''s slick," Ying Sheng lightly teased at him as she followed suit, darkness surrounding them. She reached out to take his arm, pulling herself close to his side. "I''ve really enjoyed tonight."

    Liam was surprised at her shift in tone, which sounded more serious than her previousment. He moved his hand to rest over hers, giving her aforting squeeze as he smiled to himself.

    "Me too. Think we passed?" Liam asked her, feeling up to a second date already. The momentum was good and strong, and he wanted to keep it going. There was no reason to stop now.

    Ying Shengughed softly as she rested her cheek against his shoulder and nodded.

    "I think we did good," she replied as they continued to stand on the edge of theke, the moonlight rippling off of its calm surface.

    Liam leaned his head against the top of hers, taking the moment to just enjoy being so close to her. In that moment, everything felt right andplete, which was the feeling that he had been searching for. Being with someone, being with her, was that piece that he felt like he was missing in his life. He had everything else that he could ever want besides someone to call his own.

    His family was close-knit and happy, and he wanted the type of connection that his parents had with each other. They had each other''s backs no matter what happened, and it was obvious that they were meant for each other. They didn''t want anyone else. When it came to Ying Sheng, he felt the same thing.

    "This is the best date I''ve ever been on," Liam admitted to her. It was also the least traditional one he had ever been on. He had done the fancy dinners and movies, which had been good experiences with nice girls, but they were nothing too memorable for him. The energy then wasn''t as strong as it was now.

    "Me too. You know, I was taken to a bar for a date once and he flirted with the bartender the whole time," Ying Sheng smirked with a shake of her head.

    Liam chuckled lightly, not understanding how some guys could be so shallow. He strived to be a good date, even if the chemistry wasn''t right.

    "Sounds like a tool," hemented.

    "Absolutely. Just like Han¡­." Ying Sheng muttered beneath her breath.

    "He didn''t deserve you," Liam replied with a shake of his head. Then again, he held Ying Sheng in such high regard that he didn''t know of many people who deserved her. Han Zhao had been a moron, who had decided his own ex was more important than Ying Sheng.

    "His loss, your gain," Ying Shengughed out wryly as she nudged him.

    Liam smiled at that and nodded, unable to argue with that. He had certainly gained someone special, who he wouldn''t dare let go. He definitely wouldn''t cheat on her or hurt her. He wouldn''t do that to anyone.

    "Sucks for him."

    "He shouldn''t have been a dickhead," Ying Sheng replied with a shrug.

    Liam chuckled, d that was all in the past. They were better off now with each other. He hoped that remained to be true. It helped that they had started off as best friends. They had already cared about each other before trying to date.

    "It''s getting a littlete," Liam sighed, beginning to feel his energy dip a little. He hadn''t realized how much time had flown by, and it was nearing midnight.

    "Guess you better take me home," Ying Sheng giggled as she tilted her head up to look at him.

    As much as Liam didn''t want to bring the night to an end and wrap up their date, he knew it was time. He could always ask her out on another date since this one had gone so well. He was excited and nervous at the same time about moving forward with her. He went fairly slow with other girls, but a part of him wanted to speed up with her. He had wasted so much time already being too nervous to ask her out.

 Chapter 309 Date night (2)

    <h4>Chapter 309 Date night (2)</h4>

    "Let''s go," Liam replied, shing her a small smile as he guided her back to the walking path. It was still nice and peaceful outside, and he wished that he didn''t have to leave now. It felt like a whole other world, one where it was just him and her. All of the chaos and responsibilities would melt away, and there would be nothing for them to worry about.

    He didn''t have to worry about going above and beyond at work so that he wasn''tid off and reced by another talented game developer. He didn''t have to stress about paying all of his bills on time. He didn''t have to worry about ending up alone and unwanted. This world was perfect with her.

    Once they both got back into his car, Ying Sheng turned to him, a sincere look gracing her face.

    "You know, this is the best date that I''ve been on," she told him.

    A bright smile broke across Liam''s face as he gazed at her, his chest feeling warm all over. He could agree with that. It wasn''t that he had bad dates, but they were stale and boringpared to this one. The natural chemistry wasn''t there like what he felt with Ying Sheng .

    "Me too. I''ll remember this night for awhile," Liam told her, veering away from saying forever. He would remember this night forever, but he didn''t want to scare her away by talking about so muchmitment so soon. He knew that he was falling for her, but love was a big concept, one that he wasn''t sure if she was ready for or not. They didn''t really talk about their love lives all that much with each other.

    Everyone that he dated felt like a ceholder, which he hated. He didn''t want to make those girls feel like that, but he knew where his heart was at. He couldn''t change that, no matter how hard he tried. Now, he was with the girl of his dreams, and everything felt different and fresh. He felt even more alive than he previously did, and he was starting to look past his insecurities and focus on the possibilities for them instead.

    "Cute boy," Ying Sheng quipped.

    "Cute girl," Liam replied as he turned his car on, feeling his face burn the moment those words left his lips. He hadn''t even thought about them before saying them, but they were true.

    "Gross," Ying Sheng smirked at their words as she put her seatbelt on.

    Liam couldn''t help butugh. He typically wasn''t cheesy like that because it made him feel awkward, but being that way with her only made him feel warm all over.

    "You''re the only one I''ll be gross for," Liam informed her.

    Ying Sheng bit her lip as she smiled, her eyebrow quirking up at him.

    "Oh, I''m that special, huh?" She giggled, her face seeming to glow.

    It would take Liam all night to exin to her all of the ways she was special to him. There was just something about her, a glow, an energy. He had never felt it from any other person, and he wanted to be near it, to bask in it. He felt like it made him feel better.

    "You know you are," he replied, being serious for a mere second. They typically just yed around with each other, but there were certain moments that he couldn''t joke through. Some moments were meant to be real and honest, and that was one of them.

    Ying Sheng merely smiled and nodded before turning back forward, her lips remaining curled up as she gazed out of the windshield of the car.

    As he drove them back to the apartment, they chatted about the uing week. Liam had projects left and right to finish, while Ying Sheng had her sses, internship, and business n to work on. They both ensured that next Friday night was free for both of them, though, in case of any future ns that were made.

    Once Liam parked in his usual parking spot in front of their apartment unit, he headed out of the car and met her near the hood. A jolt of anxiety then suddenly struck him. He would be walking her to her bedroom since it was time to go to sleep, like if he was walking her to her door if they lived in different ces.

    From what he knew about typical dating, he either kissed her goodnight or he didn''t, and he wasn''t sure what to do. Were they even at that point yet? Did he need to wait for the next date? Slight panic took over him as he walked with her to the front door of their apartment. He wanted the date to end well, and he wasn''t sure if a kiss would p a bow on top or ruin the entire thing.

    "Home sweet home," Ying Sheng sighed softly once he unlocked the door. She pushed it open and stepped inside, her white boots thudding against the wooden floor of the small foyer that faded into the living room.

    Liam shut the door behind him as he quietly drew in a deep breath, trying to gather himself so that he could bring this evening home and not drop the ball at thest minute. He followed her through the living room and into the hallway that led to their rooms, his hand soon finding her back as he trailed her toward her end of the hall.

    "Oh, taking me home, hm?" Ying Sheng lightly teased at him as she nced at him over her shoulder.

    "To your door, yes," Liam chuckled, giving her a slightly pointed look as he realized what she was hinting at. He felt like a nervous teenager at that point, but he wanted to act a little more put together than that as he dropped her off at her bedroom door.

    "That''s okay. It''s only the first date," Ying Sheng giggled, shing him a wink that made his face flush.

 Chapter 310 Rooting for us

    <h4>Chapter 310 Rooting for us</h4>

    Liam couldn''t stop himself from blushing at her teasing if he tried. She so easily knew how to make him flustered, and she seemed to like doing it. He wondered why. Maybe she got a kick out of it, but he knew that she wasn''t doing it to be mean. She wanted to y, and he didn''t mind ying right back.

    "Well, this is me," Ying Sheng murmured as she turned and leaned her back against her door. She seemed to bat her eyshes at him in a coquettish way, a tease of a smile adorning her lips.

    Liam paused in front of her, feeling his heart rate spike as his eyes met hers. He could walk away or he could kiss her. There were other smaller options, but those were his main two, and he wanted to do one of them very badly. His eyes graced the soft curves of her lips, which gleamed with that bold burgundy color.

    "It was nice going out with you," Liam told her as he slipped his hands into the front pockets of his pants. He didn''t want her to see how they slightly shook. He thought that twenty-three years on the would have been enough time to teach him how to not be nervous around a girl, but he had learned no such trick. Since it was her, it was even worse.

    "It almost kind of felt like our usual hangouts, but I guess that''s a good thing. We''refortable with each other," Ying Sheng pointed out.

    On the surface, it seemed like any other Friday night between them. However, deep down, there was definitely more at stake for him. He wanted to show her that he could be romantic and that he could fulfill her wants and needs as a partner, not just a friend. He knew that would take a little more time and a little learning on his part, but getting to spend time with her was great on its own.

    "I''m rooting for us," Liam chuckled, knowing the oue he wanted from this. He knew they were on the same page, but he knew that things could change. She could change her mind, which he really hoped she didn''t. Things felt so right between them.

    "Me too,Cutie," Ying Sheng murmured warmly as she gazed at him.

    Silence fell between them, and Liam felt like she was waiting for his official goodbye. It was showtime, and he was racked with stage fright. Her lips were there. Right there. Still, they seemed so unattainable and risky. He had to do something, though. He couldn''t just walk away and leave her there.

    Quietly, Liam gently ced his hand on her arm and then leaned closer to her, his lips caressing the soft curve of her cheek in a brief touch. When he pulled back, he noticed that her eyes had fluttered shut, making warmth bloom in his chest at how beautiful she looked. He almost wanted to dive back in and kiss her right there, but he coaxed himself away. The moment was already over with.

    Part of him wanted to kick himself for giving her a mere kiss when he wanted to give her an actual one, but another part of him was fine with it. Tonight in its entirety was a tease, a glimpse at what they could have together. His kiss was too. Maybe he was just trying to excuse his chickening out, though.

    "Goodnight,Baddie," Liam told her before turning and heading down the hallway to his own room. He thought about turning back to look at her, but he kept his eyes trained ahead on his own door. He was desperately head over heels for her, but he didn''t want to show that just yet.

    Once he reached his room, he shut his door behind him and then copsed on his bed, staring up at the ceiling with wide eyes. It was just a cheek kiss, and not even the first time his lips graced her so why was he acting like a kid. The thought made his face burn a little as he smiled to himself and pressed his hand over his rapidly beating heart.

    The happiness that he felt right now was what he had been looking for since forever. For so long, he thought that he would never be able to find it, but then Ying Sheng came into his life. She made him feel like he could take on the world, no matter how daunting it seemed. He just hoped that he could hold on to this feeling forever because it would kill him to once again be lost without it.

    **************

    Broken up conversations and ovepping footsteps surrounded Ying Sheng on all sides as she ventured through her campus'' main business building, the light tap of her sneakers mingling with the noise. She strode through the halls to her capstone ss, her backpack bouncing on her lower back as she moved. She was a few minuteste, but she knew that it wouldn''t make a difference as long as she showed up.

    She actually felt pretty good today. The days following her date with Liam were good ones because they spent most of their free time together, whether they were cuddled up on the couch watching movies or attempting to cook dinner together. Even those little things were fun with him because coexisting was so easy. She knew his habits, and he knew hers, so there were no sudden surprises to disrupt them.

    Things weren''t too different between them. They still hung around each other, but there was a little more touching and a lot more flirting. The filter had been removed, and they were free to say what was on their minds. It was fairly relieving to not have to hold back her quips and teases so much anymore. Plus, she liked seeing him blush.

    When she reached the first ssroom on the right on the second floor of the business building, Ying Sheng quietly pushed the door open, avoiding eye contact with Dr. Harris, who paused his lecture once she walked in.

 Chapter 311 Empty feelings

    <h4>Chapter 311 Empty feelings</h4>

    She strode through the rows of tables and chairs until she found her usual seat in the very back next to two other girls she spoke with from time to time.

    "What''d I miss?" Ying Sheng muttered beneath her breath. She doubted it was anything important since it was probably just announcements. She didn''t keep up with the ss all that much because it only circted around one project that needed to be done by early May. Xing Yue, a redhead who always seemed to wear the finest brands of clothing, smirked at her as she turned to Ying Sheng , donned in a sophisticated navy blue sheath dress.

    "Girl, this is like the tenth time you''ve beente this semester," she whispered as Dr. Harris went back to lecturing.

    Ying Sheng shrugged, knowing most of those days had been tough ones when it was hard to drag herself out of bed. She had just been proud she had made it to ss in the first ce because it would''ve been easier to just note at all and face the stress of it. Plus, other people skipped all of the time. They were all seniors. Dr. Harris could cut them some ck since the semester is about to end.

    "I''m here now," she pointed out. She wished that the ss didn''tst three hours, especially since they typically didn''t do much in it but talk about their business ns. She figured it would be more beneficial to use the time to actually work on them, but what did she know?

    A girl leaned forward to peer pass Xing Yue, her brte bangs falling against her forehead.

    "He''s talking about the drafts due today," she told them.

    Ying Sheng''s eyes narrowed in confusion, not knowing what she was talking about. She didn''t remember anything about a draft being due today. She didn''t even have apleted draft to turn in, and it would surprise her if anyone else did.

    "Draft for the business n?" Ying Sheng asked them as she looked between the two girls. She hoped that she was just hearing this wrong.

    Xing Yue gave Ying Sheng a surprised look.

    "You didn''t know? He talked about itst ss¡­ toward the beginning of it," Xing Yue murmured.

    Ying Sheng internally groaned, realizing she was probablytest ss too and had missed the announcement. She turned and watched the twenty other people in the ss move to turn in their drafts of their business n on a table toward the front of the room, her heart sinking into her stomach. She had nothing to turn in right now. Her partially done draft was on herptop on her desk at the apartment.

    "Maybe he''ll take itte," Xing Yue told Ying Sheng with a sympathetic smile as she stood to go turn her draft in.

    Ying Sheng forced a nod, trying not to look too bothered about the whole ordeal. Over the past few days, she hadn''t bothered to really work on her business n because she had been spending more time with Liam and finishing up other work for her other sses. The business n just slipped her mind, and she knew that she would pay for that.

    Shame casted itself over Ying Sheng like a dark cloud, her shoulders slumping slightly as she remained at her desk.

    She wanted this right? Toe to business school and open her bakery but why does everything suddenly feel empty? She thoughting to business school and fulfill her dream will make her feelplete but at the back of her mind she can''t shake the thought that something important is missing.

    Ying Sheng she was sure that she would get an email from Dr. Harrister on, asking why she hadn''t turned anything in. He wasn''t the worst professor she had ever had, but he was certainly a strict one. She would just have to turn in the unfinished draft that she had and hope that she didn''t fail this grade for the draft.

    "Take the rest of the time to talk to others around you about your progress on your projects so far," Dr. Harris announced once everyone returned back to their seats.

    Thest thing that Ying Sheng wanted to do was hear about how everyone else was on top of their game with this project, while she was still falling behind. She didn''t know what was wrong with her. She would sit down at her desk and try to work, but it felt like a brick was in her chest. She felt too weighed down to do anything, and all that helped was happy distractions.

    "I''m just ready to get done with all of this and vacate ," Xing Yue sighed as she tapped away on her phone, using the cover of the student sitting in front of her so that Dr. Harris couldn''t see.

    "I swear. I''m tired of doing sswork. I just want to actually work and make money now," The brte girl muttered as she stared aimlessly toward the front of the ssroom.

    Ying Sheng was ready to graduate too, but she also couldn''t help but worry about reaching that point. She would really have to face the real world without the safety of college. Something about going to school made her feel safe in a way, but that would all end soon. She couldn''t afford to continue on to graduate school, so she would have to be tossed to the wolvese graduation.

    Then, she would have to try to put her business idea into motion. She would have to find a building, find the money, and every other little detail that went into establishing her dream bakery. Deep down, she knew how to do what needed to get done, but she still felt like she was being held back, like she couldn''t move forward.

    Her parents were so sessful in their business ventures and boasted about that all the time. They prodded her to be just as sessful or she''d be a failure. There was no grey area for them, and that was a huge leap for Ying Sheng to get from where she was at now to where they were at. It almost seemed impossible, but she doubted they cared about that.

 Chapter 312 Empty feelings (2)

    <h4>Chapter 312 Empty feelings (2)</h4>

    Then, she would have to try to put her business idea into motion. She would have to find a building, find the money, and every other little detail that went into establishing her dream bakery. Deep down, she knew how to do what needed to get done, but she still felt like she was being held back, like she couldn''t move forward.

    Her parents were so sessful in their business ventures and boasted about that all the time. They prodded her to be just as sessful or she''d be a failure. There was no grey area for them, and that was a huge leap for Ying Sheng to get from where she was at now to where they were at. It almost seemed impossible, but she doubted they cared about that.

    They wanted her to seed for them, not for herself. She hated herself for wanting the approval of her parents still. She still wished that they would pay attention to her efforts and be proud of her for dreaming and trying. That was all she wanted from them, and she hadn''t heard a peep from them since she moved out. Granted, she hadn''t tried to reach out either, but they were the ones who said she would amount to nothing. They broke the already weak ties between them. It was only right that they tried to repair them.

    "The struggle isn''t done yet. We have to actually start our businesses, and you know how much work that''s going to be," Xing Yue muttered as she messed with the ends of her hair.

    "All of that paperwork is going to be so boring. I thought we did enough in this ss," Xing Yue sighed, her shoulders sagging some.

    Ying Sheng didn''t say anything. What could she add? She already had enough to worry about without thinking ahead to the future. Right now, she was struggling and nearly failing. How could she possibly expect herself to seed when it came time to actually start her business, which was harder than just going through school to learn it? She felt like she was in over her head, and she hadn''t even started.

    "We should have more optimism, girl. All of that bad energy is basically going to curse your business," Hannah pointed out, mentally shaking herself off.

    "You''re right. Your boutique is going to be a hit. It''s so cute that you''ll have a wine bar!" The brte girl told Xing Yue excitedly.

    "Right? What''s better than wine and shopping?" Xing Yue giggled before ncing over at Ying Sheng . "And you''ve got a restaurant, right?"

    "Bakery," Ying Sheng corrected her, but maybe it didn''t matter. Maybe it wouldn''t be anything more than an idea. It all came down to her, and she was mindlessly fighting herself. How could she defeat her own self?

    "How cute," The brte quipped. "I can''t wait for my girls only gym. No gross boys allowed," she smirked.

    "I''d totally go," Xing Yue replied with an enthusiastic nod.

    Ying Sheng''s mind immediately shifted to Liam , the darkness lightening slightly. He was far from gross. Despite having seen him a few hours ago, she already missed him. When she was around him, things felt so much lighter and like she had more control over them.

    The only problem was that all she wanted to do was spend time with him. She wanted to ignore her worries and responsibilities and just let loose with him, to go off into their own little world. She knew that wasn''t good for her, despite how great it felt to her. She couldn''t use him as an excuse to put everything else in her life on hold.

    Even if he made her feel better, Ying Sheng knew that she couldn''t always rely on him. She couldn''t ce that burden on him, which meant she had to findfort in herself or in something else. She loved how familiar Liam was, and she didn''t like the thought of having to back away from him to teach herself how to cope without him.

    Ying Sheng shifted in her chair ufortably, wishing that she was anywhere but here. She needed to work on her business n, not sit here and talk to people about it. Frustration shed with stress, and Ying Sheng found herself grabbing her things and getting up from her seat.

    "Where are you going? ss isn''t over yet for like another two hours," Xing Yue asked her, giving her a confused look.

    Ying Sheng merely shook her head, not caring that she was skipping out so early. She wasn''t going to waste her time here. She pulled her backpack on and walked out of the ssroom without a single look back. Dr. Harris could mark her absent for all she cared. She just wanted to go home and try to get her head on straight since things felt like they were getting away from her.

    It felt like campus melted away all around her, her focus shrinking as she mindlessly headed to her car in the parking garage. She knew the things that she was doing wrong, but they were so deeply embedded in her life and her attitude now that it felt impossible to stop. She wanted to be better about her sses, her projects, and her attitude toward things that were hard in her life.

    Her parents had raised her on viewing things as ck or white, good or bad. If she wasn''t doing something one hundred percent right, she was still doing it wrong. It made her feel like everything she did was wrong because it wasn''t perfect. She could never reach the bar that they had set, and it frightened her thinking that she was already destined to fail.

    Luckily, the drive back to the apartment was short. She doubted driving while her mind was so clouded was a good idea, and the tears burning at her eyes the whole way there didn''t help. She just needed a moment to reground herself, to convince herself that she was doing okay and that she could get herself back on track. She didn''t have to bepletely hopeless if she could crawl her way back to where she needed to be. She didn''t have to be a disappointment.

    Once she parked, Ying Sheng slung her backpack onto her back and headed to the front door, blinking her eyes quickly to try to fight off the tears. Tears never solved anything. Her mother told her that. She sniffled and unlocked the door, trying to keep her hands from shaking too much.

    She stormed straight to her room, tossing her backpack to the side and immediately throwing herself onto her bed. She wanted to work, but she also just wanted to take a breath and stare at the ceiling. She couldn''t possibly write anything intelligible right now. She had to clear her mind, to think straight about what she wanted for herself. What she was doing now wasn''t right.

    Maybe she just needed some rest. Drawing in a deep breath, Ying Sheng forced her eyes shut, enveloping herself in darkness and trying to findfort in its simplicity. However, it didn''t stay calm and quiet for long. Her thoughts seeped through, and her anxiousness demanded to be felt. She couldn''t argue against her own mind, and she couldn''t stop herself from sumbing to all of the negative noise.

 Chapter 313 Lonely night

    <h4>Chapter 313 Lonely night</h4>

    Liam walked into the apartment from work with a tired sigh, his hand lifting to rub at his eyes as he shut the door behind him. Today had been a long day with meetings and discussions about uing projects, but he was just happy to be home. He could rx and talk to Ying Sheng , which was what he had been looking forward to the most.

    Things had been great between themtely. The chemistry was off the charts, and he even started getting bold enough to flirt right back to her. He could see things developing even more between them soon, and he couldn''t be happier with how things were going so far.

    "Ying Sheng ! Are you hungry? We could order a pizza," Liam called out as he walked into the kitchen that was connected to the foyer and living room. As he poured himself a ss of water from the filter pitcher in the fridge, he listened for her response, a confused look gradually crossing his face when she didn''t respond.

    Liam had seen her car outside, so he knew that she was home from school. He downed the cold water before cing his cup in the sink and then heading to her room. He quieted his steps as he approached her door, wondering if she was asleep or not. It was only seven, so that had to be unlikely. The earliest he had ever seen her go to bed was nine, and that was only because she had to wake up super early the next morning for a business conference for one of her sses.

    "Ying Sheng , you awake?" He asked as he lightly knocked on her closed door. There was a brief pause before he heard her voice.

    "You cane in."

    Liam was surprised to hear that. She typically didn''t invite him toe into her room nowadays, which he didn''t mind. He was sure there were things in there or girly products she didn''t want him seeing.

    "Are you sure?" He asked her, making sure that was what she wanted. He didn''t want to cross a line, especially now since she sounded so quiet. He could only suspect that something was wrong, which worried him. What was going on?

    "Yes."

    Liam opened the door to a dark room. He stepped inside, only able to make out a few features from the hallway light. He saw her backpack on the floor, a few gran bar wrappers on her nightstand, some clothes on the floor, and Ying Sheng wrapped up in a nket on her bed. He frowned, already sensing her sadness from across the room.

    "Hey, you okay?" Liam murmured softly as he crossed through the room to reach the side of her bed.

    Ying Sheng turned onto her side to face him, the nket bunching up to her chin as she gazed at him. She looked conflicted.

    "Not really," she admitted.

    Liam moved to sit on the edge of the bed next to her, his hand reaching out to gently rest on her arm over her maroon nket. She only acted openly down like this on rare asions, and they typically stemmed from the same topic.

    "Did something happen with your parents?" Liam asked her. He knew about the fallout and how it had hurt her when she fought with her parents. She didn''t speak on it much, so he guessed that the thought of her falling out with her parents struck her when she least expected it.

    "Nothing. That''s the thing. Nothing ever happens. They don''t reach out. They don''t check in. They don''t care," Ying Sheng whispered into the darkness, pain sounding in her voice.

    Liam nodded quietly as he listened to her talk. He was grateful for his family and how they always cared enough to check in on him. He just wished that Ying Sheng had the same experience with her own. She deserved that. Her parents needed to harp on their daughter for how smart and creative she was instead of not saying anything at all to her.

    "I''m sorry,Ying Sheng . I''m sure you''ve crossed their minds. Maybe they just don''t know what to say," Liam murmured, trying to think of what to say to make her feel at least a little better about the situation with her parents. It was a tough one all around, so it was hard to drawfort from anywhere.

    Ying Sheng shifted her eyes to look up at him.

    "I just wish I had a normal rtionship with them like everyone else has with their parents. I actually want them to care about my grades and get onto me if I''m cking. I want them to check and make sure I''m okay and have enough money to get by. Isn''t that what they''re supposed to do?" Ying Sheng asked with a shake of her head.

    "It is. Just know that they''ve failed you, not the other way around," Liam told her, not wanting her to put any me on herself. He could tell that she was beating herself up for some reason when she didn''t need to. Her parents chose to ruin their rtionship. It was down to them to fix it.

    Ying Sheng took his words in and nodded after a moment.

    "I just wonder if they''ve even thought about saying sorry for what they said to me. They basically told me that I''m a failure in their eyes¡­ that nothing wille from all this hard work that I''m doing," Ying Sheng sighed as she reached out to grab her phone.

    She checked her messages to not see any new ones from her parents, as well as no new or missed calls from them. She then switched to Facebook and scrolled through her father''s page. Suddenly, she shot up in bed, nearly knocking Liam off from her sharp movement.

    "What is it?" Liam asked her, wondering what she had seen to make her demeanor change so quickly.

    Ying Sheng clicked on her screen before speaking, the light illuminating her face with a soft glow.

 Chapter 314 Cuddle

    <h4>Chapter 314 Cuddle</h4>

    "He made a post a few months ago saying that he is looking forward to April 28th. That''s my birthday," she murmured, confusion filling her face.

    Liam brightened a little after hearing that. Maybe her parents were going to make an effort to reconnect soon. Her birthday would be a good day for that too, and it would make the day even more special for her.

    "Maybe they''re going to surprise you," Liam suggested, watching her face soften a little at that realization. He hoped that he was right. It was the only exnation that he could think of right now.

    "Yeah, maybe. I mean, I''m graduating in a year too. Maybe¡­ if things go well and they apologize¡­ I can invite them," Ying Sheng replied, shock soon overtaking her confusion.

    Liam rubbed her back gently, d to feel the tension in her body start to melt away. Maybe there was hope, and he couldn''t be happier about that possible prospect for her. If she had a better rtionship with her parents, he knew that she would be happier because their fallout was arge source of her sadness. It made him sad that he couldn''t help much on that front, but at least things were looking up on their own.

    "That sounds like a good idea," Liam encouraged her, wanting her to try to patch that rtionship back up. It could possibly do some good for her, and that was all he wanted for her.

    "I mean, I want you there too, of course. If you want toe," Ying Sheng murmured, seeming slightly shy as she peered at him.

    Liam hadn''t been officially invited yet, but he had no doubt in his mind that he would go for her. It was an unspoken thing between them, and he wouldn''t miss her graduation for the world. He knew how hard she worked to get to that point, and someone needed to be there to cheer her on. He hoped that her parents showed, but if they didn''t, he would be there in the stands for her.

    "You know I''m already there," he pointed out.

    "Good! Good¡­ it would be nice to have you all there. I didn''t think that they cared, but maybe they''re starting to. That''s better than nothing, right?" Ying Sheng asked him, seeming to seek some advice for her confusing thoughts.

    Liam had a feeling that she was unsure of how to feel right now, which he didn''t me her for at all. It was a jarring and confusing situation, but it could also be a good one. He didn''t want her to miss out on something that could potentially benefit her in the long run.

    "It is," Liam told her encouragingly. He knew that her parents had hurt her, but he also knew that she wanted their attention and care, as any child would want from their parents. He just hoped that the best possible oue came out of all of this, especially after the severity of the fight that they had with each other.

    A smile gradually crossed Ying Sheng''s lips as she nodded and ced her phone down beside her. She turned back to him with a grateful look on her face.

    "Thank you. Today was¡­ not that great, but you made it better. You always make it better," she told him sincerely.

    Liam patted her knee over the nket, warmth flushing through him at her words. He was d that he could do that for her because she did the same for him. After a long and tiring day at work, she was always able to perk him right back up, like he was full of energy again. She breathed it back into him.

    "I believe that everything always works out in the end, no matter how impossible it may seem," he told her. He was an optimist. He tried to search for the good in everything because there would always be rays of sunshine through storm clouds eventually. He didn''t want her to think that the darkness would always linger.

    Ying Sheng smiled as he nodded. She reached out to take his hand, pulling him forward into her arms for a warm embrace. She rested her chin on his shoulder, their cheeks brushing.

    "All I see in you is good," she murmured softly.

    "You''re good too. It doesn''t matter what anyone has ever said before," Liam pointed out to her. He knew that she had heard some awful things about herself, but people could say anything without meaning or truth. It was hard for her to differentiate at times, but Liam wanted to ensure she knew the truth.

    She wasn''t useless or a failure. She wasn''t going to be a nobody when she left college. She was a beautiful and smart person with a bright future ahead of her. Liam could see those things so clearly, and he wished that she could too because it was in her very character to be bold and ambitious.

    Ying Sheng bit her lip briefly, her mouth curling up slightly at both sides. She let go of him briefly toy down, but she reached her hand out to him, beckoning him with her eyes.

    "Are you busy right now?" Ying Sheng asked him.

    Liam gave her a curious look as he took her hand, wondering what was on her mind. She was often up to something, but he didn''t mind her spontaneity. In fact, he admired it and her drive to go off the destined path every once in awhile.

    "No, I''m free. Why?" Liam asked her, feeling her start to pull on his hand. Before he knew it, she pulled him forward enough to make him topple down next to her.

    "Good," Liam merely replied as she reached over to grab her television remote on her nightstand. She switched on the television set up on a small entertainment stand in front of her bed before inviting him under her covers. "Let''s cuddle."

    Liam felt his face warm up at that, but he wasn''t about to tell her no. He kicked his shoes off and eased himself under her sheets, still wearing his button down and jeans from work. He watched her scoot across the mattress into his arms, prompting him to envelope her in them.

 Chapter 315 What we do for love

    <h4>Chapter 315 What we do for love</h4>

    What are you making me watch?" He mused, already knowing that she was going to put on some horror movie that she wanted him to check out. He didn''t go out of his way to watch them, but he ended up seeing them anyway because of her since he couldn''t tell her no when she asked.

    "Just some demonic possession," Ying Sheng replied casually as she started the movie and then tossed the remote elsewhere. She nuzzled herself against his chest, peering at the screen with a content smile on her face.

    Liam groaned, but he was just as happy as her deep down. He had her in his arms with a smile on her face. There was nothing more that he could ask for to make this moment any better or moreplete than it already was now. He was just grateful that it was happening in the first ce, and he wasn''t about to ruin it.

    "Of course," he chuckled as he held her close, his cheek resting against her temple. He could fall asleep like this, but he knew that she wanted him to watch. The small things made her happy, and he didn''t mind doing anything and everything just to put that dazzling smile on her face.

    "It''s not as gory as thest one," Liamughed out, yfully crossing her heart with her finger. She shot him a wink before turning back to look at the screen, an excited expression adorning her face as it glowed from the television screen.

    Liam didn''t even want to think about thest freaky movie she had put him through about a week ago. It was so sickeningly hardcore that it had nearly made him nauseous, while it had made herugh, like it was aedy. He had no clue how he managed to sit through that entire movie with her, but he had made it. Oh, what he did for love.

    ****************

    me Layne''s new album poured out of Ying Sheng''sptop speakers as her fingers flew over the keyboard, typing word after word to plug into her developing business n. After her mini crisis the other day, she was feeling a lot better after being consoled by Liam and seeing her father''s Facebook post. She felt like things might actually start looking up soon, so she was struck with a bout of motivation that she was determined to put to use.

    She really hoped that her parents were nning on surprising her for her birthday. That wouldn''t erase all that they did to her, but it would be a start, and that was all that she wanted. She didn''t want to live the entirety of her life resenting her parents. She wanted a better rtionship with them if they would just try.

    "Oh¡­ I wonder if selling ice cream would be a good idea," Ying Sheng muttered to herself as she tapped her forefinger against her chin thoughtfully, her eyes honing in on herptop screen. She then shook her head, deciding to start out simple and effective first. Later on, she could add more features when she was more established and had her footing.

    She finished typing up one more point before giving her fingers a few flexes, a tired sigh breaking from her. She had managed to finish a few pages today, which she was extremely proud of. Pride wasn''t something that she felt a lot for herself, but it felt really good. It made her feel like maybe her future wasn''t so dark and hopeless, like she wasn''t killing herself over work for nothing.

    "And that''s why I need you!" me Lane''s vocalist belted out over thrashing drums and bold strumming.

    Ying Sheng bit into her bottom lip absentmindedly as her thoughts shifted to Liam, who had been her saving grace. She knew that she wasn''t supposed to rely on him so much, but maybe she could make it up to him. She really wanted to thank him forforting her the other night, but what could she do?

    Ying Sheng shut off her music and then herptop before standing up, ncing around for an idea of what to do for him before he got home for work in about an hour. She didn''t have time to run out and go get him anything, so it would have to be something she did here in the apartment.

    With a curious look on her face, Ying Sheng ventured out of her room and into the kitchen. She sifted through all of the cabs, the pantry, and the fridge, checking to see what they had lying around. She knew for a fact that his favorite meal was breakfast.

    At the thought, she startedughing to herself as she shook her head. People typically said pizza or tacos were their favorite meals, but it was just breakfast for Liam. Luckily, she had the ingredients to make French toast and bacon, so she would make him breakfast for dinner when he got home from work.

    Ying Sheng enjoyed cooking. She didn''t get to do it as much as she wanted to when she was growing up because the nanny would shoo her out of the kitchen, but Ying Sheng cooked whenever she had time now. It was rxing to her, and she felt like she actually had some control over its oue. Plus, she got to be rewarded by the end product.

    ncing at the clock, Ying Sheng moved around the kitchen to pull out all of the ingredients that she would need, hurrying around to fix them breakfast before he got home. She managed to finish up thest piece of French toast when he stepped through the door. Hurriedly, she scooped three pieces of French toast and two pieces of bacon on his te, her heart beating rapidly as she heard him approach.

    "Woah, what''s all this?" Liam''s voice sounded from the doorway as he stepped inside of the kitchen, a confused look adorning his face.

    Ying Sheng turned away from the stove once she turned it off, stering a warm smile on her face as she held both of their tes in her hands.

    "I made breakfast. You really helped me out the other day, and I just wanted to thank you," Ying Sheng exined as she stepped closer to him, herrge band shirt swishing against her thighs just below the bottom of her ck lounge shorts.

 Chapter 316 Dance

    <h4>Chapter 316 Dance</h4>

    Liam stared at her in shock for a few seconds before a smile broke out across his face and he took his te from her.

    "Come here," he murmured as his free hand swept around to hold the small of her back, pulling her in for a half hug. His nose brushed against her hair as she leaned into his embrace. "Thank you."

    Liam squeezed him before releasing him, her face warming slightly. She wished that she could''ve done something more borate for him, but she realized that things like this meant the most to him. She was just d that she could make him smile. It was the least that she could do for him after all that he had done for her.

    "How was work?" She asked him. Ying Sheng couldn''t believe he works at thepany that made her favorite game. You can imagine her shock when she found out.

    "Good, just busy," Liam replied as he motioned for her to follow him to the living room so that they could curl up on the couch next to each other and eat. He bit into a piece of French toast and hummed at the taste. "Damn, you should sell French toast at your bakery."

    "I wouldn''t be doing all of the baking," Ying Shengughed softly as she bit into her bacon, feeling it crunch beneath her teeth. She was definitely nning on hiring professional bakers to help her out. She would handle the business aspects.

    "Well, I''ll be requesting goods made by you," Liam replied before shooting her a yful smile. "It''ll have that special touch."

    "Oh, really? You think it''ll be that good?" Ying Sheng asked as she lifted her eyebrow up at him. It was nice of him to think so. She would work extremely hard to get her bakery up and running. Businesses took a lot of work, but that didn''t scare her away. She knew that challenges were a part of life.

    "I''ll be there every week," Liam promised her as he lightly nudged her foot with his own.

    "Promise?" Ying Sheng giggled behind her hand as she peered at him. She would actually have to get her bakery up and running, but it was a nice sentiment for him to offer toe out to see her regrly. At least she would have one supporter.

    Liam shifted his te to his left hand before reaching out his pinky on his right hand to her, prompting her to lock their pinkies together.

    "Gotta make me something special, though," he chuckled as he tightened his pinky around hers.

    "Special treat for a special guy," Ying Shengmented with a smirk, lifting her eyebrows up at him yfully. Even if the cheesy things that she said were fairly amusing, she did mean them. He was special to her.

    Liam yfully rolled his eyes at her before going back to finishing up his breakfast, his eyes meeting hers every so often as they passed quiet smiles to each other.

    "I was going to ask you out on a date this weekend, but we have Dong Yishan''s birthday party," Liam told her.

    Ying Sheng felt her heart race a little at the fact that he was nning on asking her out again. She knew that it wasing eventually, but it still made her emotions soar. She enjoyed spending time with him, and she was looking forward to possibly deepening their interactions. They had acted tonic for so long now, and her feelings didn''t reflect that mentality anymore.

    "Are you going to be okay going to a club? That''s a lot of people and noise," Ying Sheng asked him, genuinely wondering if he would be fine in such a scene. It could be a lot, and it even got overwhelming to her at a point. However, she enjoyed the chaos and noise. It blocked everything else out, and the alcohol definitely helped too.

    Liam popped thest bite of his bacon into his mouth before putting the empty te on the coffee table near them. He gave her a nod as he looked back over at her.

    "It''ll be fun, and I know she really wants us toe and celebrate with her," Liam replied as he lounged back against the couch cushion.

    blinked a few times in surprise, not expecting that response from him. She had noticed that he had been getting slightly boldertely. She liked seeing him put himself out there more.

    "Well, you owe me a dance," Ying Sheng quipped, wondering if he would go that far for her. She loved to dance when it was dark and the strobe lights were flickering. Feeling that bass shake her chest was an otherworldly feeling.

    "Don''t get mad at me if I step on your toes," Liam told her as he lifted his hands in an innocent manner, excusing himself from the me if that happened.

    Ying Sheng smirked and ced her te next to his before moving to lean against his side, feeling his arm wrap around her shoulders. She liked when he held her close, especially since he felt so warm against her. Her eyes trailed up to his, tension crackling between them. It always got so tense when they were touching each other.

    "I''ll show you a few moves," she smirked at him, tilting her head up in a confident manner. She knew that she wasn''t the best dancer, but she knew how to move well enough and could teach him enough to keep him from floundering around.

    Liam lifted his eyebrows a little at her.

    "Just on the dance floor?" Liam asked her in a suggestive manner.

    Ying Sheng gaped at him, especially not expecting thatment toe out of his mouth. He was cute and innocent, and it would take a lot for her to see him as anything but that.

    "Liam!" She scolded him yfully. Thest thing that she wanted him to do was stop, though. She enjoyed hearing him flirt and seeing a different side to him than just the shy one. Liam immediately blushed, beginning to duck his head, like he was embarrassed of what he just said.

 Chapter 317 Birthday party

    <h4>Chapter 317 Birthday party</h4>

    Ying Sheng watched him shy away, mentally calling out to him to stop. He was doing so good, but she knew that he was nervous to act that way. She just had to show him that he was doing good, that he was going in the right direction.

    Without much hesitance, Ying Sheng gripped the front of his T-shirt and yanked him forward, crashing her lips against his. She was shocked at her own move, but it was toote to back out now, and she didn''t want to anyway. His lips were soft and warm, and she easily slipped into the feeling, her lips moving against his gently.

    Liam''s eyes fluttered shut as he leaned into the touch, his hand tentatively cupping her cheek to hold her close.

    All that Ying Sheng could hear was her heartbeat pounding in her head. Her breath was running out, but she didn''t want to drag herself away from him just yet. The moment felt too good, and she wanted to keep going. Heat coursed through her in strong waves, prompting her to lean her upper body against his.

    Liam steadily leaned back until he wasying down t, his hands grabbing at her sides as she hovered above him. He tilted his head back to keep their lips joined, his fingertips digging into the skin just below her shirt.

    Ying Sheng lightly bit his bottom lip, drawing a pleased breath from him that nearly made her head spin. She drifted her fingers into his hair, lightly gripping the soft strands as her lips continued to brush against his. Her body was willing her to keep going, but her mind was singing a different tune. The time wasn''t right, no matter how good it felt.

    After pressing her lips to his one more time, Ying Sheng coaxed herself away from him, catching her breath as she crawled off of him. She looked over at him, realizing that he lookedpletely stunned as he stared at the ceiling.

    "You okay?" She asked him, her wordsced with a lightugh. It seemed like she had broken him.

    Liam snapped out of his daze and nodded, moving to sit up quickly and adjust the slim fit khakis that he wore. He seemed to shift ufortably on the spot, a light pink tint adorning his cheeks.

    "I''m¡­ good. Very good," he murmured, a bashful smile sooning onto his face.

    "Good," Ying Shengughed softly, d to hear that he was okay after all of that. It had been intense and heated, nearly driving her to do more to him, but that would have to happen at another time. She would know when the time was right, and she wasn''t going to speed through her first time with him. He meant too much to her for her to do that.

    "I should¡­ get out of these clothes," Liam told her before his eyes widened at what he said. "I mean, they''re just dirty from work."

    Ying Sheng nodded, withholding augh as she watched him get to his feet and then hurry to his room. She grabbed their paper tes and headed to the kitchen to throw them away, her body still tingling and warm from the kiss. It had been one of the most intense kisses that she had ever shared with someone.

    She really wanted to do it again, but it seemed like they both needed a breather. With a faintugh to herself, Ying Sheng headed to her room, hoping to channel some of her happiness into some hard work.

    ***************

    The club was swarming with young adults as they danced out on the dance floor, crowded around at the bar, or hung around in the lounges together. Liam lifted his ss of Jack and Coke to his lips, taking a deep sip and internally grimacing at the bold punch from the whiskey. He was sitting in Dong Yishan''s private lounge for her birthday, surrounded by Ying Sheng Dong Yishan, and some of Dongother friends.

    "Happy birthday to me!" Dong Yishan cried out as she lifted her shot ss to everyone.

    "Yeah!" Xing Yue joined in as he lifted his ss, the tequ lightly sloshing over the rim.

    Ying Sheng cheered as she downed her shot, wincing a little at the taste before breaking out into a lightugh. She nced over at Liam with a smile, her eyes having found his throughout most of the night.

    Liam couldn''t stop thinking about their kiss a few days ago. It wasn''t how he pictured their first kiss as a couple, but it had still felt perfect. She was sweet and hot, and he was surprised they hadn''t gone further with how the chemistry felt in that moment. However, he was sure that they both realized that it wasn''t the right time.

    They had been friends for so long now. If they were going to sleep together, it had to be the right time. One bad sex session could potentially ruin their chances together, and he didn''t want to be faced with that. He would know when the time was right. He wouldn''t be able to deny himself any longer.

    "Let''s get another round! Liam, you''re drinking!" Dong Yishan called out to him from across the circr table in the center of all the padded couches in their area.

    Liam chuckled and nodded, figuring he could do one shot for the birthday girl. He was already on his second whiskey, so he might as well keep going. The alcohol numbed most of his nervousness of being out in a chaotic ce like this, and having Ying Sheng nearby also helped a ton. He could just look over at her and feelforted.

    "How many rounds has that been for you, birthday girl?" Xing Yue smirked at Dong Yishan as he gestured to all of the empty shot sses that already littered the table in front of them.

    "We''ll keep going until we reach my age," Dong Yishan giggled into her hand.

 Chapter 318 Dance

    <h4>Chapter 318 Dance</h4>

    "I''m pretty sure we''ll die of alcohol poisoning by then," Liammented with an amused look on his face.

    Ying Sheng moved to sit next to Liam as the group chatted among themselves, nudging him with a smile.

    "Wow, shots for Liam, huh?" She giggled, her cheeks already tinted pink.

    "It''s how she would want me to celebrate her," Liam replied with a chuckle. Dong Yishan liked when everyone was having fun with her, so that was his gift to her, on top of the automatic wine opener he had bought her.

    "You''re right about that," Ying Sheng agreed as she watched a waitress drop off a whole te of tequ shots for the group to take. She reached forward and grabbed two, handing one off to Liam before yfully wrapping her arm around his so that they were intertwined.

    "Oh, we''re doing this number?" Liam chuckled as he moved close to her so that he could reach his shot.

    "Go big or go home," Ying Sheng pointed out as she beamed at him.

    "You bitches are so cute!" Dong Yishan gasped out as she pointed at them before downing her shot, coaxingughter from Xing Yue and Han Zigao as they lifted their sses to Ying Sheng and Liam.

    Liam felt his face burn a little, but he didn''t have time to be bashful because Ying Sheng was motioning for him to take the shot. He tossed the ss back, the searing liquid rushing down his throat and burning through his chest.

    "Oh, that''ll hurt tomorrow," he grunted out as he ced his shot ss down. Tequ did awful things to him. "Happy birthday, Dong Yishan ."

    "Thanks! Oh! I love this song!" Dong Yishan gasped out before grabbing Zhao Li''s hand and dragging him out to the nearby dance floor.

    Han Zigao watched them run off with augh.

    "I''ll be hitting the bar," he told them before getting up and leaving the lounge area.

    Liam smirked a little as he finished sipping on his whiskey, watching Ying Sheng fluff her hair a little before smoothing her hands down the ck fitted dress that she wore. He hoped that Ying Sheng had as much fun as Ying Sheng on her birthday. He would make sure that would happen, but he would have to think of a way to make that happen.

    "I''m surprised she hasn''t dragged you off yet," Liam told Ying Sheng . Typically, Dong Yishan and Ying Sheng danced together.

    "She''s got boy fever tonight," Ying Sheng smirked as she turned to watch Dong Yishan grind up on Zhao Li before looking back over at Liam. "I mean, so do I."

    Liam scoffed yfully as he shook his head at her usual flirting. It still made him a little bashful, but he liked hearing it. She had only started seriously flirtingtely, so he took it as a good sign of what was building between them so far.

    "How are you doing so far?" Ying Sheng asked him, her yful nature diminishing slightly and giving away to a more serious tone.

    Liam was thankful that she thought to check on him. She was a caring person, and she wasn''t only like that to him. She was that way with their friends too, even if she didn''t realize it.

    "I''m good. It''s nice to be out with you," he told her, having enjoyed their night out so far. They hadn''t done much but drink and chat with their friends, but he liked thepany. It was a nice change of pace from long days at work.

    "We''ll go out again together soon for our second date,"

    Ying Sheng pointed out to him as she shed him a bright smile.

    Liam hadn''t thought up a n for their next date yet, but he knew that it woulde to him eventually. He wanted to do even better than their first one, so it would take some brainstorming to think of a better effort.

    "I know. I''m trying to think of a way to impress you," Liam chuckled. He could go all out, but he wasn''t sure in what way. He would have to be creative.

    "You know that you don''t have to try to impress me," Ying Sheng told him pointedly as she nudged him with her shoulder.

    Liam supposed that she was right, but he still wanted to ensure that she had a good time with him. Besides, it was only the second date. He could slow down his efforts a little around the fourth or fifth date since it''ll be more of a regr thing for them.

    "Well, I''m going to," he smirked at her, intent on making it fun for them.

    "I know you are. Stubborn," Ying Shengughed with a yful roll of her eyes.

    Liam joined in herughter and leaned over to press a gentle kiss to her temple. The move was automatic, but it still felt natural, like he had beenying his lips on her for years. He wished that he had, but he supposed it was betterte than never.

    Ying Sheng shed him an awed look before speaking.

    "Careful. I won''t be able to control myself if you keep that up," she lightly teased at him.

    Liam felt his heart jolt a little at her words, wondering if she was fully joking around or not. He couldn''t tell at times.

    "It''s a party. You''re supposed to let loose," hemented, bordering on joking and serious. He wanted her to have fun in whatever way she wanted to. He was just d to be here with her.

    "You''re right. You know, you owe me a dance,"

    Ying Shengmented as she raised an eyebrow at him.

    Liam nced at the dance floor with a slightly wary look. The song was an upbeat electronic one, which would require him to move quite a bit. However, he could tell that she really wanted to dance with him, and he wasn''t about to let her down. He just had to watch his feet.

 Chapter 319 Shy virgin

    <h4>Chapter 319 Shy virgin</h4>

    Let''s go," he told her before downing the rest of his drink and cing the empty ss on the table. He adjusted his short sleeve, white button down before grabbing her hand and leading her out to the dance floor, slipping through the waves of moving people as the white lights shed above them.

    "I promise I won''t keep you out here long," Ying Sheng told him, trying to speak above the loudness of the music.

    "I want to be here as long as you do," Liam replied as he squeezed her hand, not wanting her to hold back because of him. He could handle a few songs with her. He just had to focus on her and not all of the chaos around him.

    Ying Sheng stopped him in the middle of the dance floor and turned him around to face her, immediately sidling up to him as she swayed her hips to the beat. She reached up to drape her arms around his neck, drawing him close as she smiled against his cheek.

    Despite his nervousness, Liam felt excitement pound through him, his hands finding her waist to feel the swaying of her body. He could smell the sweet smell of her hair as she came so close to him, nearly dizzying him. Everything about her captivated him.

    "You''re doing good!" Ying Sheng told him as she smiled up at him. She tilted her head back, the lights flickering against her face from up above. Her hair streamed down her back, exposing her neck and corbones beneath the thin straps of her ck dress.

    Liam nearly lost his breath at the sight, finding her incredibly beautiful under the bright lights. She seemed to glow, capturing his eyes with ease. He moved one hand around to the small of her back, pressing her flush against him as he moved at the same rhythm as her.

    Ying Sheng giggled near his ear, her fingers drifting up into his hair. She moved to rest her forehead against his, their eyes briefly colliding. She smiled at him, her hips brushing his to the beat.

    Liam moved one hand up to rest on the back of her neck beneath her hair. He felt like he could breathe her in because they were so close, and he wished that they didn''t have to part. To his surprise, he watched her suddenly spin around. A faint gasp left him as she pressed her back up against his chest and continued to move.

    Ying Sheng turned her head to peer at him over her shoulder, a devilish smile adorning her face as she purposely pushed her hips back against him.

    Liam realized that she was being¡­ devious. Heat spread through him at a rapid rate, matching with the beating of his heart. He held her hips, pulling her back against him to let her dance. He didn''t even have to move to feel friction, and that grating and grinding was making him feel a type of way that was hard to control.

    Closing his eyes, Liam tried to find what control he had left, but she was moving in all the right ways to drive him crazy. He couldn''t help himself. Grabbing her hand, Liam whipped her around and pulled her close, his lips colliding with hers in a heated touch.

    Ying Sheng gasped into his mouth, but she wasn''t jarred with shock for long. She gripped his shirt as she returned the touch, her lips pressing and moving against his to their own rhythm. The song was long forgotten.

    Liam pushed his hand into her hair, enjoying the taste of her and craving even more. He should''ve known that he wouldn''t be able to deny his desires when he was around her. She embodied temptation, and he was weak to her spell.

    Ying Sheng soon broke away from his lips and leaned up near his ear.

    "Want to get out of here?" She asked him, her voice sounding breathy as she caught her breath.

    It didn''t take long for Liam to realize what she was referring to, and he couldn''t stop himself from agreeing even if he tried. He nodded and let her take his hand to guide him out of the crowd. He felt like he was in a daze, the lights streaking through his vision as he moved quickly.

    "Wait, what about Dong Yishan ?" Liam asked her when they got off of the dance floor. He didn''t want to be rude and leave in the middle of her party without letting her know. Dong Yishan had been looking forward to this for weeks.

    Ying Sheng nced around before smirking and pointing toward the outskirts of the dance floor.

    "I think she''ll be just fine without us," she mused.

    Liam followed her finger to see Dong Yishan with her tongue basically down Zhao Li''s throat. He turned away with augh and nodded, realizing that Dong Yishan probably wouldn''t give them a single thought for the rest of the night.

    "Yeah, let''s go," he told her.

    Ying Sheng smiled boldly before rushing him through the club, intent on getting out of there and back to their apartment to continue the night.

    *******

    Ying Sheng didn''t expect the night to take this turn. She thought that they would dance,ugh at themselves, drink a little more, and then go home to go to bed. She didn''t expect to find herself stumbling into his bedroom, her lips melding with his in hot touches. However, despite the shock of it all, she couldn''t bring herself to stop now.

    It didn''t even feel sudden to her because she had been having these feelings for Liam for awhile now. She wanted to feel his touch, to bond with him in a deeper way than before. Plus, she trusted him. She knew that he would never do anything to wrong her.

    "Ying Sheng ¡­...wait," Liam suddenly breathed out as he forced himself away from her, his hands resting on her arms. He looked nervous, his eyes shifting around as he tried to find his words.

    "What''s wrong?" Ying Sheng asked him, feeling struck with worry. She hoped that she hadn''t pushed too hard. She knew that she had been heavily flirting with him tonight, which was thanks to the alcohol and her own unspoken desires. She just hoped that she hadn''t pressured him too much.

    "I haven''t¡­ you know¡­ done this before," Liam murmured, seeming embarrassed.

 Chapter 320 First time(R-18+)

    <h4>Chapter 320 First time(R-18+)</h4>

    Ying Sheng could tell that his own fear was drawing him away from her. She reached up to grab his hands, forcing his eyes back on hers.

    "I know,Liam. It doesn''t change anything. I still want you¡­ I just get to teach you a thing or two," Ying Sheng replied, a sultry tonecing her words as she smiled at him. She didn''t want him to worry about a thing.

    Liam''s eyes seemed to darken at her tone as he swallowed hard. He nodded to her, letting her pull him to his queen-sized bed.

    Ying Sheng spun him around to face her, her lips meeting his in a brief kiss before she pushed him down on the bed. She couldn''t help but want to y with him a little. It drove her a little crazy how he looked at her like she was the only one in his world. It was fitting since she was about to rock his world.

    "Just rx," she told him as she straddled his waist, her hands moving down to steadily unbutton his shirt.

    Liam''s chest rose and fell heavily as he watched her, his hands moving to rest on her hips. He shifted his shoulders to let her pull his shirt off, his breath hitching as her nails lightly raked down his chest.

    "It''s hard to rx when you''re¡­" Liam trailed off as she grinded her hips down against his.

    "When I''m what?" Ying Sheng asked as she tilted her head at him, a coy smile crossing her lips. She grabbed her dress and pulled it up over her head, her body adorned incy ck panties and a strapless bra.

    Liam''s eyes roamed over her body, his hands following suit as they trailed down her sides and stomach.

    "Touching me. God, you''re beautiful," he breathed out before pulling her down for a searing kiss. He pushed his hand into her hair as he rolled them over, hovering above her as his hands moved up her sides.

    Ying Sheng''s head nearly spun as he kissed her and caressed her, heat ring through her body. Even if he hadn''t done this before, it seemed like he had an idea of what to do. All he had to do was let his body move, but she knew that he was nervous still. She grabbed his hands and ced them on the swell of her breasts, encouraging him to grip and squeeze.

    Liam reached around to fumble with the sp of her bra, pulling the material off of her so that his hands could feel without any barriers. He pressed his hips down between her thighs, a pleased sound breaking from him only to be muffled by Ying Sheng''s lips. He broke from her, his lips trailing down her jaw, her neck, and then down to her breasts.

    Ying Sheng gasped softly when she felt the warmth of his mouth around one of her nipples, her eyes briefly shutting as she felt him suck and circle his tongue around them.

    "That''s¡­ good. Really good," she praised him, arching her back up to meet his lips.

    It didn''t take long for Liam to want to explore lower, his hands gently easing her panties off of her hips and down her legs. He parted her legs and settled between her thighs, kissing at the inside of them.

    "If anyone is going to tease, it''s going to be me," Ying Sheng groaned as she tilted her head back, her hand reaching down to slip into his hair.

    Liam responded by drawing his tongue up through her folds, grazing over her clit to make her body jolt. He pulled her legs over his shoulders, his tongue tracing through to map her out. Once he found her clit again, he dragged the t of his tongue against it.

    "Oh¡­ woah," Ying Sheng gasped out, tightening her hold on his face as she pushed her hips up against his mouth to chase his motions. It felt like her face was on fire, the mes threatening to spread everywhere as he continued to swirl his tongue in all the right ces. Her thighs started to shake as the pressure increased.

    Liam gripped one of her thighs hard to keep her from squirming away, his other hand moving to slip two fingers inside of her. He steadily curled them, drawing soft moans from her.

    "Come here¡­ now," Ying Sheng breathed out as she pulled on his hair, drawing him up her body so that she could kiss him and undo his pants. She helped him push them and his briefs off of his body, her tongueshing over her palm before she reached down to stroke him. He was past the point of being hard and ready for her.

    Liam grunted at the pressure, his head falling to the crook of her neck and shoulder briefly. He then quickly leaned over to rummage around in his nightstand, pulling out a condom from the back of the drawer before returning to her.

    Ying Sheng took it from him and opened the package, tossing the pieces elsewhere. She was surprised that he even had oneying around, but she supposed that it was good for him to be prepared for moments like this. She hadn''t expected it, but that didn''t mean that she didn''t want it. She rolled thetex down his length before nodding.

    Liam gripped her hips and pulled her closer over the mattress, letting her line him up before he slowly pushed inside her. His eyes immediately fluttered shut, his fingertips digging deep into her hips for stability. He seemed wound so tightly that he could''ve snapped right there.

    Ying Sheng gripped his upper arms tightly, taking a few seconds to adjust to him before she nodded. As he started to move in slow thrusts, she dragged his head down to press her lips against his, enjoying the warmth that she felt everywhere. It felt like her skin was alive, buzzing warmly as it grated against his.

 Chapter 321 Worth it(R-18+)

    <h4>Chapter 321 Worth it(R-18+)</h4>

    Liam gripped her hips and pulled her closer over the mattress, letting her line him up before he slowly pushed inside her. His eyes immediately fluttered shut, his fingertips digging deep into her hips for stability. He seemed wound so tightly that he could''ve snapped right there.

    Ying Sheng gripped his upper arms tightly, taking a few seconds to adjust to him before she nodded. As he started to move in slow thrusts, she dragged his head down to press her lips against his, enjoying the warmth that she felt everywhere. It felt like her skin was alive, buzzing warmly as it grated against his.

    Liam traced the crease of her lips with his tongue, He paused when he realized how tight she was.

    "Ying Sheng¡­.you" He widened his eyes when he remembered that she was a virgin too.He hadpletely forgotten about it. After all he was drunk that night.

    "Don''t stop¡­.." Ying Sheng groaned as a tear slipped from her eyes. Liam kissed her eyes gently and carefully moved inside, soon feeling hers slide against his in a fiery touch. He started to increase his pace, his body leaning over hers as he pressed her into the mattress.

    Liam felt the coil in her stomach continue to tighten, the friction and pressure threatening to push her over. She just needed a little extra push, prompting her to guide one of his hands down between their bodies.

    "I''m so close," she purred in his ear, hearing his light pants sound near her ear. She couldn''t help but enjoy the rough sound.

    Liam seemed to get the hint and started rubbing the pad of his thumb against her clit, his lips finding her neck to deal teasing kisses to her sensitive spots.

    Ying Sheng bit her bottom lip as she arched her back beneath him, her fingers tightening around his hair as they continued to move together. She felt so in sync with him, like they had created their own rhythm. As much as she didn''t want it to stop, she could feel herself approaching the edge. It didn''t help that he was moaning into her neck, letting her know that he was just as close.

    "Liam¡­.." Ying Sheng sighed out, blisscing her tone as she held him close. The coil snapped and fire flooded through her, burning every inch as she trembled from the intensity. She felt his movements go out of rhythm, his breathing growing sharper as he fell off the edge soon after her.

    Liam eventually slowed his motions to a stop, his warm skin pressing to hers as he rested his forehead against hers. He caught his breath, a shocked smile steadily crossing his lips as he met eyes with her.

    "Wow¡­ just¡­ wow," he managed to say as he traced his fingertips along her cheek.

    Ying Sheng smiled at the touch, enjoying how gentle he was with her. She leaned up and pressed a soft kiss to his lips, feeling like electricity was flowing between them. She knew that her experience with him would be good, but it had blown her mind. He had been amazing, ensuring that she was pleased and taken care of.

    "Are you sure that was your first time?" She asked him, eyeing him suspiciously. How he did some things seemed fairly expert level, but maybe it was because he had actually taken the time and effort to please her.

    "Cross my heart. Did I¡­ do good?" Liam asked in a shy manner as he carefully rolled off of her. He took her hand to help her off the bed so that they could head to the bathroom together.

    "Good? You did amazing. Had some tricks up your sleeve, huh?" Ying Sheng lightly teased at him as she shuffled to the bathroom, her knees still feeling a bit weak.

    Liam blushed a little at that as he shrugged.

    "I can''t say I haven''t thought about doing that with you," he admitted as he ran a wash rag under the hot water and then soaped it up. He turned to her and ced the rag in her hand with a sweet smile.

    Ying Sheng thanked him with a bat of her eyshes, d that she had actuallynded a guy with good hygiene. Even if he didn''t realize it, it was one of the most attractive things about him.

    "Well, same," she quipped, having thought about sleeping with him multiple times. She couldn''t help it. Even how good he smelled could turn her on, and his sweet attitude and warm touch didn''t exactly help.

    Liam chuckled as he rubbed her arm gently.

    "I''m d we did that. I wasn''t expecting it¡­ but it was nice," Liam told her as he tossed the condom away and then leaned against the bathroom counter.

    Once Ying Sheng cleaned up and rinsed off the wash cloth, she turned back to him, sharing a smile with him. She was d that it was good for him since it was his first time. She had wanted it to be special and memorable for him. Even though it''s her first it still meant a lot to her. He had cared for her more than any other guy would have.

    "Are you okay with me being your first? I probably should''ve asked first," Liam asked her , hoping that the whole situation was fine with her. They had moved fast at some points, but the desire was obvious. They couldn''t get enough of each other fast enough.

    As Ying Sheng cleaned up, she nodded, giving her an amused look.

    "You''re literally the only person I would want to be my first," She told him before leading her back into the bedroom so that they could hunt for their clothes.

    "I''m honored," Liam giggled as she pulled on her panties, sliding them up over her hips. She nced over at his dresser before moving toward it to pull open the middle drawer. She rifled around inside before pulling out a ck band shirt of his. With a sly smile, she tugged the shirt on before shutting the drawer.

    Liam adjusted his navy blue briefs, a smirk crossing his face when he realized what she was up to.

    "Don''t I owe you a hoodie? Isn''t that a boyfriend thing to do?" Liam asked before freezing and blushing. "I mean¡­ whenever we get to that point."

    Ying Sheng walked over to him, reaching out to yfully push him onto the bed. She crawled up onto its surface andid down next to him, cuddling up to his side. She knew that things were still early in their developing rtionship, but she considered him far from a friend at that point.

    "I get to pick the hoodie," she told him, already picturing a few in her mind that she liked.

    Liam smiled against the crown of her head as he ced his arm around her shoulders. He pulled her closer to his side, a satisfied sigh drifting from him.

    Ying Sheng reveled in how peaceful that moment felt. Everything seemed to be in ce for once, and she didn''t want anything to move for at least a little while longer. She wasn''t sure if that was possible, but she would hold on to the hope that things would remain good for as long as possible.

 Chapter 322 Mine

    <h4>Chapter 322 Mine</h4>

    A light ruffling sound broke Liam out of his sleep, his eyes blinking open slowly against the sunlight streaming through his bedroom window. When the noise persisted, he turned his head to see Ying Sheng gathering her clothes fromst night off of the floor. He realized that they must''ve fallen asleep together in his bed after everything that happenedst night.

    His face immediately warmed at the thought. He could hardly believe that they had actually taken that next step with each other, but he was d for that. He felt closer to her, having actually been physically joined with her. It almost seemed like he had felt her very soul.

    "What are you doing?" He mumbled sleepily as he rubbed at his eyes and sat up in his bed, the sheets sliding down his bare chest.

    Ying Sheng turned to him with a surprised smile.

    "Oh, sorry, I didn''t mean to wake you. I forgot to tell you because I wasn''t sure if I was even going to go or not, but a few girls in my capstone ss are meeting up in the library this morning to work on our business ns together. I just figured¡­ maybe it would help motivate me to work," Ying Sheng murmured with a light shrug.

    A proud smile crossed Liam''s face as he nodded, wanting to encourage her to go. He was so happy to see her being more motivatedtely, like life had been breathed into her finally. It had been hard seeing her drag herself around, devoid of inspiration.

    "That sounds great. I hope you get a lot of work done," he encouraged her.

    Ying Sheng smiled at him gratefully as she bundled her clothes up against her chest.

    "Thank you. They''ll probably be shocked to see me show up because I''ve never attended their hangouts before," Ying Shengughed sheepishly.

    Liam smiled at her in an understanding manner, knowing where she wasing from. He was just d that she was kicking herself into gear. The end of herst semester was approaching quickly, and he knew that she had a lot of work left to do. She needed to be as focused as possible.

    "I bet they''ll be happy to see you. I''m sure everyone is crunching in that ss," he told her, d that he was no longer in school. He preferred to get paid for all of the hard work that he did.

    "We definitely have a lot of work left to do," Ying Sheng replied.

    Liam nodded his head to the door, suspecting that she was procrastinating a little. He didn''t want her to get sidetracked by him. She was already taking a good step forward by just deciding to go.

    "I don''t want to keep you, despite wishing you were still in bed with me," he chuckled, wishing that they couldy there a little longer together.

    "I would definitely stay in bed with you a little longer, but I guess I don''t need to be toote," she sighed to him as she walked up to the side of his bed.

    Liam reached out to gently take her hand, his thumb rubbing over her knuckles in aforting manner. She had no reason at all to feel torn about that. He wanted her to go out and get work done because he knew that it made her feel happy.

    "There''s always tonight," he pointed out to her. They had all the time in the world, so there was no need to rush. Each moment was an important one, and he didn''t want to miss any.

    "You''re right. I will be sure to spend some time with you tonight¡­ in this bed," Ying Sheng smirked as she winked at him yfully.

    Liam chuckled and shook his head at her yful antics, but his heart automatically raced in response to the thought of another round with her. She had blown his mindst night, and his first time was greater than he could''ve ever imagined. She was bold and sexy, and she had no problem guiding him through. It drove him a little crazy just thinking about it.

    "Careful. You''ll make yourselfte," Liam mused, lifting his eyebrows at her. He couldn''t deny his constant desire for her.

    "Oh, are you trying to seduce me,Cutie?" Ying Sheng murmured as she gave him a devious look.

    Liam merely shrugged, not trusting his own mouth. With his nervousness, he would say something stupid and ruin the mood. It was easier to let her do the talking, while he did the reacting.

    "Bad boy," Ying Sheng smirked as she tilted her head at him.

    It was ironic for her to say that since she was deemed as a "bad girl" by some people. She had the attitude and the style of one, but she was far from a bad person. It was a mask, one that he easily saw right through. She was sweet and caring, even if some people didn''t see her as that.

    "Is that your type?" Liam asked yfully. He knew Han Zhao was the one who broke her heart. They had just be friends when she had gone through that breakup, which had brought them closer because he hadforted her.

    Han Zhao had done her wrong by not treating her well, and Liam had been intent on proving to her that she was lovable and beautiful. He tried to show that to her every day because it was true. She deserved someone who would care for her, not someone who only cared for a warm body. She was far more than that.

    "Absolutely not. You''re my type," Ying Sheng quipped as she gave his hand a squeeze.

    Liam was d that they were good for each other. They supported each other, motivated each other, and cared for each other. He would never drag her down, and he knew that she wouldn''t do that to him either.

    "And you''re mine," Liam murmured, meaning his words.

 Chapter 323 Deserves the world

    <h4>Chapter 323 Deserves the world</h4>

    He found so much of her to be perfect, and they meshed together so well. He had never wanted to be so open with another person before, and he knew it was because he thoroughly trusted her.

    "We''re gross," Ying Sheng giggled as she shook her head.

    They were being fairly cheesy, but Liam didn''t see that as a bad thing. He figured only really happy couples said those things and meant them. He meant each and every word, no matter how gross it sounded or how easily it could be mocked.

    "How about I take you out on that date soon?" He asked her, wanting to take her out and spoil her a little. Then, he would really see that cute and sensitive side of her.

    Ying Sheng''s face brightened up at his question as she nodded.

    "Let''s do it," she replied enthusiastically.

    "Great, I''ll do some nning. Now, go be productive," he told her as he pulled her forward so that he could press a soft kiss to her lips.

    A part of him wanted to drag her into the bed with him, but he stopped himself. Her work had toe first, and he had some things that he wanted to do today too. It was Sunday, so he didn''t have that many things on his list of things to do today, but he had a few important ones in mind that required his attention.

    "See you, babe," Ying Sheng stressed the pet name yfully before heading out of his bedroom

    Liam smiled to himself as he rxed back in bed, listening to her go into her room to change her clothes and grab her things. Once he heard the front door open and then close, he hopped out of bed, his mind already starting to race.

    He really wanted to make her birthday special, and he knew that he had the perfect chance to this year since her parents seemed to be hinting at doing something for her for her birthday. If he could join his efforts with theirs, maybe they coulde up with the ultimate surprise for her birthday.

    He was aware that they were super rich, so they could really pull off something big for her.

    She preferred experiences over things, which he wanted to keep in mind. Presents were great, but they didn''t hold a candle to events or fun activities for her. She would choose to do something instead of to receive something in a heartbeat, which he admired about her. She wasn''t materialistic. She lived in the moment.

    All of this sounded great in his head. However, if he wanted to team up with her parents, that meant that he had to reach out and talk to them. It made him slightly nervous because he didn''t think that they would take the time to talk to him. He was a stranger to them, so they would likely just ignore him. He had to figure out a way to create contact with them that they wouldn''t turn away from.

    Humming beneath his breath thoughtfully, Liam turned on hisputer and plopped down in hisputer chair, flinching at the cold leather pressing against his bare back. He signed in and started up his web browser, immediately typing her parents'' names in to bring up their website for their real estate business. He was d that they were fairly easy to find because he wasn''t that much of a sleuth when it came to tracking people down.

    His eyes shifted down the screen as he scrolled, seeking out a contact form to make an appointment with them. He chewed on the inside of his cheek as he thought, wondering if this was even a good idea or not. Technically, he would be lying a little since he wasn''t making an appointment with them to sit down and discuss real estate with them, but it would be the easiest way to ensure that he could have a meeting with them without them turning him away.

    Liam didn''t usually do sneaky stuff like this. He preferred honesty, but her parents hadn''t been the most reliable people on the. His ultimate goal was to make Ying Sheng happy, and he knew that involving everyone important to her in her life would make for a great birthday for her. He wanted to see her face light up as bright as Dong Yishan''s did at her birthday party.

    After a few more moments of debating in his head, Liam decided to take the dive. He would do anything for Ying Sheng . His feelings for her put her at the top of his list, and he knew that she would go above and beyond for him for his birthday too. He typed in his information in the contact form, leaving a vague message about wanting to arrange a meeting to discuss some things before sending the form in.

    Hopefully, her parents would arrange a meeting with him soon so that he could talk to them about how to surprise Ying Sheng for her birthday. Despite the bad blood between Ying Sheng and her parents, he knew that Ying Sheng wanted to resolve things. The tension wore her down constantly, and he didn''t want that situation negatively affecting her any longer, especially as she got closer to graduation.

    Liam shut down hisputer and returned to his bed, lounging across its surface and already wishing that

    Ying Sheng was back there with him. He missed her, even if she was only gone for a few hours. She had intertwined herself in his daily life so deeply that he could hardly imagine going more than a day without her.

    With a smile, Liam reached out and grabbed his phone, knowing that he had some researching to do for their next date. He wanted to be creative and bold, just like her. Her parents had already disappointed her for the majority of her life, and he wasn''t ever going to stoop to their level. She deserved the world, and he was intent on giving it to her.

 Chapter 324 Concert

    <h4>Chapter 324 Concert</h4>

    I feel like this could be considered kidnapping."

    "Not if you''re willing to go along."

    Ying Sheng smirked at Liam''s words as she stared out of the passenger door window of his car, watching trees streak past them. Likest time, Liam was intent on keeping the date idea a secret until they arrived, so she had no idea where he was taking her. For the past week, he had beenpletely quiet about his idea, which drove her insane with anticipation.

    "Can you at least tell me how long we''re going to be in the car for?" She asked him, trying to have at least one little clue.

    "A few hours,"Liam replied as he briefly nced over at her from the passenger''s seat.

    Ying Sheng''s eyes widened at his answer, expecting him to say thirty or so minutes. He was talking about going to a whole new town, but why would he be taking her out of town? He had nned something big, but she didn''t know what. He could be taking her anywhere within a few hour radius from where they lived, and they could be doing anything.

    "So, this is like a whole day thing?" She asked him as her eyes shifted to the digital clock in his car. It was around eleven in the morning. He had woken her up early to get dressed and ready to go. Luckily, she had been flying through her business n and other homework throughout the past week, so it didn''t hurt her to lose a day to his ns. The work group Xing Yue had organized had actually really helped her.

    "It goes pretty far into the night," Liam replied before putting his finger to his lips. He wasn''t saying anything else to her.

    "Stubborn," Ying Sheng huffed as she crossed her arms over her chest. She had no clue what he had in mind, but she was still excited. He knew her enough to know what she enjoyed doing, and she couldn''t help but notice that he was pretty pumped today too. It had to be something that he enjoyed too.

    Along the way to wherever Liam was taking her, they stopped a few times for gas and food. Liam insisted that she hydrate and get enough to eat so that she had enough energy forter. She wasn''t sure what she needed to be so powered up for, but the anticipation continued to eat at her during the entire car ride.

    Only when Liam drove into a busy part of a city did Ying Sheng realize that it was one of the bigger cities in the state. She had only been here once or twice for events, like concerts. She turned her head to gaze out of her window as they passed by the city''s arena, which held hockey games, concerts, and other big events.

    It felt like her heart nearly leapt from her chest when she saw an advertisement for me Lane''s tour pop up on one of the big electronic screens on the exterior of the arena. She turned to look at Ying Sheng , who was smiling widely. It couldn''t be true.

    "You got pit tickets? They were sold out!" She gasped out.

    "Someone was selling their tickets, so I snagged them,"Liam replied as he drove closer to the arena, seeking out the parking garage.

    Ying Sheng couldn''t quell the rapid beating of her heart, even if she tried. She was beyond excited for the concert, but she was also so ovee with gratitude for Liam. She knew those tickets probably weren''t all that cheap, but he did this for her.

    They had enjoyed only a few me Lane concerts together, but they were some of the most magical nights ever. They bonded over their love for the band, for their enjoyment of the music. It wasn''t an experience like any other, and he had gifted that to her for their date. He continued to amaze her.

    "I¡­ I''m speechless," she admitted, not even knowing how to properly express her gratitude to him for what he had done. She couldn''t think of any other person in the world who would do something like this for her.

    "Good. I was shooting for that reaction," Liam chuckled as he drove into the arena''s parking garage. He stopped at the booth and paid for parking for the night before driving around to look for a parking spot.

    Ying Sheng turned to Liam once he parked, her hand reaching out to grab his white T-shirt so that she could yank him forward. She crashed her lips against his, deciding that this was the best way to show her appreciation. Words just couldn''t do her thoughts justice.

    Liam smiled against her lips, his hand lifting to cup her cheek as they shared a few warm touches. He tilted his head up to press a soft kiss to her forehead, a chuckle sounding from him.

    "I told you I was going to n something even better than the first date," he pointed out to her.

    He had definitely stuck to his word, and Ying Sheng was sure that it couldn''t get any better than this. He had nned the ultimate date for them, and she knew that they were going to have a st tonight. Plus, he had gotten them there early enough topete for the barricade if they lined up early enough.

    "I can''t believe this," she breathed out with a shake of her head.

    "Believe it because it''s happening," Liam told her as he showed her their tickets on his phone. He shed her a smile before getting out of the car.

    Ying Sheng followed him, ready to get in line and get out on the floor for the show. She took his hand and let him lead her down to the front of the arena, where around twenty other people were already lined up.

    "Now, we wait," she murmured, checking her phone to see that there were still a few hours left until the doors opened to let people in before the show. She didn''t mind the wait, though. me Lane was worth it. She would''ve camped out on the street if she had to.

    The hours until the doors finally opened stretched on and on. At a point, Ying Sheng''s feet started aching so bad that she had to sit down on the concrete walkway. However, all of her tiredness and aches went away when the line started moving.

 Chapter 325 Demolition valentine

    <h4>Chapter 325 Demolition valentine</h4>

    Finally," Liam breathed out in relief as he pulled their tickets up on his phone to get ready for the check-in process.

    Once their tickets were scanned and security checked them, Ying Sheng and Liam followed the line of people ahead of them into the arena. They stayed close together as they made it to the pit floor, their steps quickening to get to the barricade on the left side.

    Ying Sheng gripped the bars for dear life as more and more people started to crowd behind them. She reached out to loop her arm with Liam''s , anchoring them together. She wouldn''t want them to get separated because it would be nearly impossible to find him through the growing crowd.

    "I can''t believe we made it," Ying Sheng breathed out in shock. She was usually toward the middle of the crowd, but now she had a front row seat to the show. Any seat was great at me Lane''s shows, but she knew that getting to the front near the barricade was the best view and experience. The band was literally a few feet away.

    "It''s kind of surreal," Liam chuckled as he stared at a ck curtain hiding the stage from view.

    As she smiled at him, Ying Sheng realized that there was no other person that she wanted to share this experience with. She had great friends, but Liam healed her in a way that no one else did. If she felt down, he could cheer her up, even if it was only temporarily.

    Before things started taking a turn for the better, she had been weighed down with disappointment for herself and anxiousness and sadness for her situation with her parents. Every move felt like a wrong one, and no effort that she made ever seemed good enough. She felt like she was destroying herself, but she didn''t even have enough energy to care.

    Now, she felt charged. She felt alive and could have hope for herself and her future. Things weren''t so dark anymore, and Liam was that light for her. She just hoped she deserved it.

    "Remember when we first saw them together? We were so far back that we couldn''t hardly see them?" Ying Shengughed out as she turned to smile at him. Even if she hadn''t been able to really see the band well, she had heard them perfectly. The music still made her entire body shudder.

    "Yeah, the tallest people in the world happened to be standing right in front of us," Liam scoffed as he shook his head.

    "It was still a good night, though," Ying Sheng pointed out. It became a little bit better when they slipped their way to another section of the crowd where they could see better, but they had still been far back.

    "And tonight is going to be even better," Liam chuckled as he nudged her.

    Ying Sheng knew that he was right. It wasn''t only going to be better because they were standing at the barricade instead of so far back. It was also because her feelings for him were deeper now. They had more memories together, more instances of connection. She felt like they were two halves of a whole at this point.

    Suddenly, the lights shut off, darkness flooding the arena as people screamed excitedly. Lights started shing behind the curtain before it dropped, revealing the band as they kicked off the concert with "So Sick."

    "Holy shit!" Ying Sheng gasped out as she saw the band members up close. The music rumbled in her chest and head as the guitar, bass, and drums shed, the vocalist''s bold voice breaking through to sing.

    "And I''m so sick of you! And the awful things you do!" The vocalist sang, his voice echoing throughout the arena as he strode around the front of the stage.

    "It''s slowly killing me! And I can''t begin to breathe!" Ying Sheng sang the next few lines, but she doubted that she could chalk up her broken screaming to singing. She was just so excited that she was so close to the band. Faintly, she could hear Liam joining in, prompting her to shoot a smile at him.

    There wasn''t a song that Ying Sheng didn''t sing at the top of her lungs, her throat gradually growing raw from the strain, but she didn''t care. She was in the moment with her favorite person near her favorite band. She felt like she was in a dream, one that she never wanted to break out of. At least she could stay in the dream for at least another hour.

    Throughout the concert, Ying Sheng''s eyes felt drawn to Liam''s automatically, like she wanted to check in on him. There was a lot of people and noise, which she knew could make him nervous at times. However, he seemedpletely fine, like he was caught in the dream along with her.

    "It''s been a pleasure ying for you! This is ourst song, so give it your all! This is ''Demolition Valentine,''" the vocalist spoke to the crowd as he put his hand up. He nodded his head as the drummer started to y, the lights shing with the beat.

    Ying Sheng gripped Liam''s arm excitedly to shake him. That was her favorite song off all of their albums.

    "That''s my song!" She gasped out, having not expected them to y it. She couldn''t believe that she was actually getting to hear it live.

    Liamughed, his voice getting lost in the opening riff of the song. He reached over to squeeze her hand as the vocalist started belting off deep notes that echoed in everyone''s chests.

    "I want to be yours, but I''m afraid I''ll destroy you!" The vocalist cried out as he gripped the front of his white tank top.

    Ying Sheng felt her heart tighten as she sang along, gripping Liam tighter. When the song first started resonating with her, she hadn''t been sure why, but it was clear to her now. She thought about Liam when she heard this song, and she was the demolition valentine.

 Chapter 326 Confrontation

    <h4>Chapter 326 Confrontation</h4>

    Liam''s fingertips nervously tapped the top of his steering wheel as he drove all the way to the real estate office of Ying Sheng''s parents. He was pretty sure it was an automatic response or a quick message from whoever worked the desk, but his appointment with them had been confirmed for today, so he was going to meet up with them to talk about Ying Sheng''s birthday.

    He was nervous, but he was mostly excited at the prospect of surprising Ying Sheng in the best way for her birthday. He had gone all out for their concert date, but this would be a lot more personal. Her parents were a sensitive spot, and he wanted to help her situation with them as much as he possibly could.

    Naturally, he tried to help others and do the right thing, but something about her made him want to go above and beyond. All he wanted was to see her smile and for her to be happy, and seeing her in a happy state put him in one of his own. That was how he knew that he loved her.

    They were bound to each other in a way that he had never experienced before. He could feel her emotions and understand her pain, even if he had never felt it before. He didn''t shy away from that either. He weed the ability to be able to read her, which helped him figure out ways to make her feel better. He hoped this was one of those ways.

    Once he pulled up to the office building, which was squeezed between a doctor''s office and an ountant''s office, he adjusted his cored shirt, wanting to be presentable. He knew that they would be a little shocked when they realized that he wasn''t interested in real estate and wanted to talk about their daughter, who they hadn''t seen in awhile.

    After checking the time and drawing in a calming breath, Liam headed out of his car and to the front door of the office. He stepped inside and immediately smelledvender in the small waiting lobby, the smell triggering his nervousness for some reason. The office looked so clean and proper. He felt like if he touched something that it would break.

    "Hi, how can I help you?" A voice sounded to his right.

    Liam turned to see a receptionist at a polished wood desk, prompting him to step forward to greet her.

    "Hi, I have an appointment in a few minutes. My name is Liam," he told her, watching her type away on herptop. Despite him having an appointment and jumping through all of those hoops, he still felt like he wasn''t supposed to be here.

    "I''ve got you right here. You can head into that office," the receptionist responded as she nodded to a door across the room from her, her blonde ponytail swaying from the motion.

    "Thank you," Liam told her sincerely before turning to walk toward the office she had motioned to. It felt like the short walk took forever, each step seeming tog until he finally made it to a cracked office door. He pushed it open and stepped inside a brightly lit office.

    Towards the back, there was an extended wooden desk with two workstations on either end. Two empty chairs were ced in front of it for guests, and a man and a woman sat at their office chairs on the other side. The man wore a dark grey suit jacket and pants, while the woman wore a dark red zer and skirt set. Even when they smiled, they looked stern, and he couldn''t help but notice that even though the man strikingly look like Mr. Ying, it wasn''t him.After all Liam had met the man once and he would never forget his face.

    "Hi, I''m Liam," he introduced himself, reaching forward to shake their hands before sitting down in one of the chairs in front of the desk. He dragged his hands over his dark jeans, hoping for the best. He was walking into unknown territory, but he had good intentions. He just had to keep himself focused on them if he got nervous.

    "Good to see you,Liam. Are you interested in a certain property of ours?" The man asked as he started to type away on hisputer.

    Liam nearly broke a sweat at that question. He wasn''t interested in anything that they were selling, and now he had to tell them that. He was almost too nervous to admit what he was up to, but he wanted to put his n in motion.

    "I''m not actually. I''m here to talk about Ying Sheng ," Liam told them, watching confusion looks fill their faces. He knew that was probably thest thing that they expected to hear. They probably thought he was interested in one of the houses that they had on the market, but he didn''t have the money for a house. Plus, he liked where he was at, and he really liked his roommate too.

    "Do you know her or something?" The woman asked as she crossed her arms over her chest, narrowing her eyes slightly.

    "I''m¡­ her roommate. We''re really close, and I know that she and her parents had some fall out, Liam started to say, trying to figure out where to even start. Ying Sheng''d rtionship with her parents was aplicated thing, and he was diving in headfirst.

    "Why are you here? Why do you want to talk about her?" The man asked, his voiceing out a bit sharp.

    Liam was a bit taken back by his tone, but he supposed that the man saw him as a stranger, no matter how close he was toYing Sheng . He just had to ease them into the conversation. Hopefully, something good woulde out of it.

    "Well, her birthday ising up soon. She saw her father''s post on Facebook and figured the might be nning something for her. I wanted to work with them and n something big for her, and so that they could talk," Liam exined as he nced at the woman. To his confusion, they nced at each other with a shake of their heads. He didn''t understand what was going on.

 Chapter 327 Disappointment

    <h4>Chapter 327 Disappointment</h4>

    . He just had to ease them into the conversation. Hopefully, something good woulde out of it.

    "Well, her birthday ising up soon. She saw her father''s post on Facebook and figured the might be nning something for her. I wanted to work with them and n something big for her, and so that they could talk," Liam exined as he nced at the woman. To his confusion, they nced at each other with a shake of their heads. He didn''t understand what was going on.

    "Yeah my brother posted that because we''re unveiling a new property to put on the market that day. It''ll be our biggest yet,"the woman replied.

    Liam felt his heart sink into his stomach, not expecting to hear that from her. He could''ve sworn the post had something to do with Ying Sheng since it was talking about the day that her birthdaynded on.

    He didn''t think they''d care about anything else happening that day, much less n anything on that day besides something for her birthday. Maybe they were worse than he had originally thought. Maybe Ying Sheng was right to leave them behind. They only seemed to care about themselves.

    "So, they''re not going to do anything for her birthday? Not even reach out to her? What happened between them¡­..it really hurt her," Liam told them as a frown crossed his face. He wished that they could realize how much they had hurt Ying Sheng because of how they treated her. It was a big part of her sadness that she consistently battled with, and they probably had no idea.

    "Yes, we know. Unfortunately our brother is too stupid to care about his own daughter" The woman scoffed with a shake of her head.

    Liam kept his eyes from narrowing, from the woman''s tone he could see that she was disappointed with her brother.

    "All she wants is their support and care." Liam replied, unable to help his slightly sharp tone. He understood they had a rocky rtionship, but that didn''t mean it was right for them to just dismiss their own child like that. "You have no business talking to us about our family, okay? I don''t know what you thought you would aplishing here," The man muttered as he red at Liam.

    Maybe it wasn''t his ce, but Liam cared about Ying Sheng He had wanted to help bridge a divide, but one side didn''t want to cooperate. They didn''t care about their daughter at all. Their one duty as parents was to take care of their daughter, and they hadn''t even done that.

    They might have kept a roof over her head and kept her fed while she was growing up, but that wasn''t parenting. That was the bare minimum. They didn''t let her express her feelings and fears. They didn''t encourage her to follow her dreams or show her any support. They weren''t there for her, even if they lived in the same house for years.

    Seeing the determined look on Liam''s face, the man sighed.

    "Look, I appreciate what you''re trying to do for Ying Sheng. But her parents are currently not avable."

    Liam scrunched his brows at the man''s words.

    "What do you mean?" Liam questioned.

    "Don''t worry, once my brotheres back , he will make up with his daughter and atone for his sins."

    The woman nodded in agreement.

    "I don''t know who you are but my niece is lucky to have you by her side. Please take care of her. We will send her a birthday gift."

    ************

    "Liam really thought that he could change things for her, that he could help her, but he had failed. Her parents weren''t even around and she had no idea. He wished that today had a better oue because now he had no idea what to do for her birthday.

    He had put all of his hopes on this encounter, and he was left with nothing. He probably should''ve known better, but he was an optimist. It was his biggest blessing and his biggest curse all at the same time. It tricked him into thinking that people were better than they actually were, which cost him time and effort.

    Now, he had to start from scratch and figure out something great to do for Ying Sheng''s birthday to make up for the fact that her parents wouldn''t be there to try to mend the divide between them. He could do something small and intimate or something grand and wild. However, the more that he thought about it, the more that he realized that it probably wouldn''t matter what he did. She would feel the same.

    She would wake up on her birthday, wait by her phone, and her parents would never call her. She would be devastated, and there was nothing that he could do to make her feel better about her parents''ck of contact. She would wonder what happened, and he would be faced with the decision to either tell her or not.

    If he told her that they had a property reveal, she would find out that he had gone to see them. He wasn''t sure how she would feel about that. However, if he didn''t say anything, it would make him feel guilty, like he was hiding a secret from her. He didn''t want to lie to her, but he also didn''t want to upset her more.

    Liam sighed and steadily lowered his forehead down to the steering wheel, wondering what he had gotten himself into. He didn''t think that this would happen, so he didn''t know how to recover from this. Ying Sheng would get hurt either way, and he had to help her through the aftermath.

    He just wished this didn''t happen now. He could tell that she had been feeling so much bettertely. She was lively and motivated, riding off of the hope that she had for her birthday. Now, he knew that it would all be ruined, and they would be back where they started.

 Chapter 328 Birthday

    <h4>Chapter 328 Birthday</h4>

    Ying Sheng tapped her fingertips against her phone screen in an anxious manner, her eyes flickering back and forth between the empty notification screen and the sight of her friends bowling in front of her.

    Today was her birthday, and she didn''t know how she felt. On one hand, she was happy and grateful because Liam had nned a whole day of activities for her, including brunch with bottomless mimosas, bowling, and dancingter on that night with all of their friends. He was so thoughtful and organized everything for her.

    However, another part of her was anxious and crestfallen because she hadn''t heard a peep from her parents. After seeing her dad''s post on Facebook, she thought that they had something nned for her, even if it was a simple dinner so that they could all talk. However, they hadn''t reached out at all. A few times, she wanted to reach out first, but she held herself back. Maybe they could call her any moment.

    Ying Sheng felt incredibly guilty about feeling this way after all of the work Liam had put into today. She didn''t want to feel so upset about her parents and have her focus taken away, but she couldn''t help it. Today was supposed to be the day where everything was fixed between them. She could move on from the past and stop letting it hold her back.

    "It''s your turn, birthday girl," Liam''s voice sounded above her.

    Ying Sheng looked up from the chair that she sat in, a smile being forced onto her face as she gazed up at him. She needed to refocus, especially after all he had done for her. She didn''t want his efforts to go to waste over a rtionship that she couldn''t change.

    "I''ll be right there," she promised him, wanting to check something real quick.

    Liam''s smile wavered, but he nodded and backed away to talk to their friends, who surrounded the table that Ying Sheng sat at.

    Ying Sheng tapped on her Facebook app and typed her dad''s name into the search bar, figuring she could find a clue or two as to what they were up to. She scrolled down her dad''s profile and suddenly felt like she had gotten punched in the stomach. They were celebrating today, but they weren''t celebrating her birthday. They were celebrating theunch of their biggest property ever.

    She clenched her jaw tightly, trying to keep her bottom lip from trembling as her eyes started to sting. The sight of that made her nauseous and ashamed. She couldn''t believe that she had actually thought that her parents cared about her at all. They never had, so why did she think that they would ever change, especially for her?

    She had to look over the post again to ensure that she wasn''t making it up in her head. However, it was real. They weren''t even thinking about her. Anger started to re through her, prompting her to hastily dial her dad''s phone number. She brought the phone to her ear and listened to it ring on and on until it hit her voicemail. They wouldn''t even pick up the phone for her.

    Ying Sheng tightened her grip around her phone as she lowered it from her ear, her eyes glossing over as she sank back into her thoughts. She didn''t know what to do at this point. She had woken up this morning thinking that things were going to change, but the opposite happened. Nothing had changed, and she felt stuck in ce, darkness all around her.

    "Hey, you okay?" Liam murmured as he walked back over to her, his hand reaching out to touch her shoulder.

    Ying Sheng looked up at him, her eyes blinking rapidly to try to clear her eyes of her tears, but she knew that he had already seen them. He was the only one that she wanted to talk to right now.

    "No. Can we go talk somewhere?" She asked him, trying to hide behind her hair so that her friends didn''t see her like this. She didn''t want to be questioned. She just wanted to rant.

    Liam looked concerned as he nodded and motioned for her to follow him.

    "We''ll be back, guys," he told the others before leading Ying Sheng outside of the bowling alley and to the side of the building where it was more secluded. He turned back to her and tilted his head at her. "What''s the matter?"

    Ying Sheng nced around as she sniffled quietly, trying to find the words to say. Her mind was such a cluttered mess that she didn''t even know where to start. She didn''t like that she had to bring this up in the first ce, especially at her own birthday celebration.

    "You know how I thought my parents were going to reach out to me on my birthday?" Ying Sheng asked him. She was pretty sure he remembered since he had supported her thought process on what her dad''s post meant. She wished that she hadn''t been wrong, but she should''ve known better than to give her parents the benefit of the doubt.

    Liam seemed to almost pale at the question, but he nodded.

    Ying Sheng dragged her fingers through her hair, a sigh breaking from her.

    "Well, that post that my dad made wasn''t about me. It was about a new real estate property they''re putting on the market," Ying Sheng ranted to him with a shake of her head. "I mean, it''s just obvious now that they care more about their job than me! It''s my birthday! Their daughter''s birthday!"

    Liam listened to her talk, a frown steadily growing on his face.

    "I know, I know. I''m so sorry," he murmured.

    Ying Sheng wasn''t done yet. She had plenty of thoughts about her parents, and none of them were nice now. She had been willing to give them a chance to make up for all that they had done to her, whether it was the abandonment or the awful words they told her, but they had basically spat in her face.

    "I just don''t understand what I did wrong! Am I that awful of a daughter? Did I disappoint them so much that they just don''t want anything to do with me anymore?" Ying Sheng spat out as she paced on the spot, feeling the anger flow through her. She couldn''t shake it, and it kept building the more that she thought about the situation.

 Chapter 329 Argument

    <h4>Chapter 329 Argument</h4>

    It isn''t fair. They should care more that you''re upset about everything," Liam sighed out with a shake of his head.

    Ying Sheng parted her lips toin more, but she paused, a confused looking onto her face. She hadn''t said anything about them not caring that she was upset. For all they knew, she was perfectly happy with what had happened between them and was living her best life. Obviously, that waspletely wrong, but how would they know that?

    "How would they know I''m upset? I never told them that I was," Ying Sheng asked him, wondering if he had just been mistaken. It was strange of him to say that since it was so out of line with what she had been talking about.

    Liam''s eyes widened slightly, a panicked look filling his face.

    "Oh¡­ I¡­" Liam trailed off, like his words had gotten caught in his throat.

    After meeting Liam, it hadn''t taken her long to figure out that he was an awful liar. He hated lying, which meant that she could easily tell when he wasn''t telling her the truth. Right now, he was keeping something from her, and she was determined to find out what.

    "Liam, how do they know?" Ying Sheng asked him in a calm voice, trying to coax him to open up. She could tell that he was nervous for some reason, which made him seem all that more guilty. If things were fine, he would''vee out and told her that already.

    Liam eventually broke and sighed, his hand reaching out to take hers. He drew in a breath before speaking.

    "I visited your parentspany about a week ago," Liam admitted to her, looking guilty.

    Ying Sheng''s eyes steadily widened as she stared at him, feelingpletely in shock that he had done something like that. It didn''t make any sense for him to meet up with her parents, especially knowing that she didn''t have a good rtionship with them. It seemed out of line and out of character for him, who was nervous to meet new people.

    "Why? Why would you do that?" Ying Sheng asked him, needing to know his thought process behind all of this because it didn''t make any sense to her.

    Liam stroked his thumb over her knuckles in an attempt tofort her.

    "I thought that they were going to reach out for your birthday too, so I met up with them to see if they wanted to n a surprise for your birthday. I figured we could all throw a party or something for you, and you guys could talk and make up. It would be the perfect birthday for you," Liam exined to her.

    Ying Sheng narrowed her eyes slightly as she listened to him talk. She appreciated his thought and kindness. He always had good intentions, especially when it came to her. However, her family was her issue. She didn''t want him to get caught in her web, to get tangled up in her problems.

    "I''m guessing they told you their actual ns and told you to screw off?" Ying Sheng asked, already knowing how her parents were like. He had no clue what he had gotten himself into when he went to meet them.

    "No, your parents aren''t avable. They are probably out of the country."

    Liam said quietly, feeling her hand slip out of his. He frowned as he watched her pull her hand away.

    "And you didn''t tell me. You just waited for me to find out on my own," Ying Sheng murmured, her eyes shifting down to the ground. She couldn''t believe that he hadn''t told her, that he had kept something so important from her. He knew that she would be hurt when she found out, and he still didn''t say anything to even try to prepare her for this. It felt so unlike him.

    Liam sighed softly as he took a step toward her, only for Ying Sheng to match it with a step back.

    "I''m sorry, Ying Sheng . I wanted to, and you deserved to know," he told her.

    Ying Sheng shook her head, her teeth biting into her bottom lip anxiously. She needed his support when it came to trouble with her parents, and he had let her walk right into the fire. He had tried to distract her instead of being honest with her. She wondered what else he hadn''t told her.

    However, for now, she didn''t want to hear it. She couldn''t stomach it right now, and all of the thoughts in her head were starting to dizzy her. She needed some space to try to sort everything out. A shaky breath left her as she stepped back again from him.

    "I have to go¡­ tell everyone I got sick or something," Ying Sheng muttered before storming off to the nearby parking lot to find her car so that she could hurry up and leave. She didn''t want to hear any more bad news right now.

    "Ying Sheng , wait!" Liam called to her, sounding desperate.

    Ying Sheng ignored him, which pained her to do so. A part of her wanted to toss herself into his arms and findfort in his embrace, but she couldn''t bring herself to do that right now. He had lied to her, and she didn''t want to be hurt like that again. Maybe she wasn''t in his best interest.

    If the tables were turned, she would''ve gone to him and told him everything. She knew that it would''ve been hurtful for him to hear, but at least he would know ahead of time. He would know what to expect, and he could prepare himself to be disappointed. It wouldn''t just hit him like a truck when he wasn''t expecting it.

    Once Ying Sheng got in her car, she couldn''t bring herself to go to the apartment. She knew that Liam would just try to track her down there. She had to go elsewhere for the time being, a ce no one would bother her. After some driving around, she found a small park on the outskirts of the main city area.

    It was quiet and out of the way, and it was exactly what she needed right now. She needed to feel like she was on the outside because the inside was too messy and chaotic. She had been surrounded on all sides by troubling emotions and letdowns. Here, she was looking at her problems from a far away ce.

    Drawing in a deep breath, Ying Sheng let the warm airfort her as much as it could as she sat on one of the wooden park benches. At least there was no one at the park. She could be alone with her thoughts, but she wouldn''t let them overwhelm her. She had to have some sort of control over something in her life.

    For awhile, she thought that things were under control. Things had been going her way, whether it was school or her developing rtionship with Liam. However, now things felt like they were up in the air at the moment. Nothing was certain.

    She didn''t know her next move, and she felt alone, like she was standing in a wastnd of her disappointments and crushed hopes. She wasn''t sure if it was a ce that she could make it out of or not. Maybe she would always belong here, stuck in between what she wanted and what she could never have.

 Chapter 330 Advice

    <h4>Chapter 330 Advice</h4>

    It had been a few days since Ying Sheng hadst said a full sentence to Liam. She would say one or two words if he needed to ask her anything important, like something about the bills or about groceries to buy. Beyond that, he didn''t hear a peep, and she would often disappear into her room or not be in the apartment at all.

    It was torture for Liam, but he knew that he was at fault. He should''ve been honest with her about the whole situation with him meeting her parents and finding out that they had no ns to see her on her birthday. He just didn''t want to upset her. He wanted to let her have another week of happiness before everything was ruined.

    His intentions had been good, but it hadn''t been a great idea overall. She had deserved to know immediately when he had found out. He had made a mistake, and he was paying for it in the worst way possible. He couldn''t stand being away from her for so long, and he just wished that things got better between them.

    Liam heard noise from the kitchen, prompting him to hop off of his bed with a nervous sigh. Maybe he could get her to say something to him today, but he didn''t get his hopes up. It wasn''t likely, but he still wanted to try. He walked out of his room and to the kitchen, seeing Ying Sheng make herself coffee to go.

    "Morning," he said quietly, a hopeful look appearing in his eyes. He just needed a chance.

    Ying Sheng nced at him, but she didn''t say anything. She merely cast her eyes down and continued to get her coffee ready. She poured it into an insted mug before emptying a few sugar packets into it.

    Liam sighed softly as he remained at the entrance of the kitchen. Despite herck of response, he didn''t want to give up yet. She meant so much to him, so he had to fix this. He couldn''t keep going on like this or it would drive him even crazier.

    "I''m sorry,Ying Sheng . I wish you''d let me exin everything," he told her. He hadn''t gotten the chance to fully apologize yet, and he wished that she would let him. Maybe she would forgive himter on, but she needed to hear the full apology first.

    Ying Sheng still didn''t say anything. She put the top onto her mug before grabbing it and walking past him to leave the apartment, shutting the door behind her.

    Silence rang out through the apartment, a cold feeling seeming to settle. She had taken all of the warmth with her. Liam could hardly stand to stay in the apartment now. It was just a reminder of how broken apart they were now. He couldn''t knock on her door and ask her if she wanted to watch a movie with him. They couldn''t cook dinner together. He felt all alone here.

    He decided to leave for a few hours. There was nothing keeping him here, and he really didn''t know what to do next. He needed help, but who could help him with Ying Sheng ? It took a few seconds, but a thought struck him. It was a little odd for him, but maybe it would help him out.

    Liam took out his phone and texted a familiar number before heading out of the door and to his car. He hopped in his car and pulled away from the apartment, already having his destination in mind. He wasn''t a hundred percent sure of his idea, but he had to try something.

    There was nothing that he wanted to do more than to fix his rtionship with Ying Sheng . It was one of the most important rtionships in his life, and he couldn''t stand to lose it. That meant taking measures that he didn''t think he would ever take.

    Once he pulled up to Neon Heights, one of the modern bars in town, he checked his phone before walking through the front door. LED lights lined the walls and bar with a blue and pink glow, illuminating the dark space that was filled with round tables and an arcade area.

    It didn''t take him long to spot a familiar head of blonde hair, prompting him to walk to one of the tables near the bar.

    "Thanks for meeting me,Dong Yishan ," Liam greeted her as he leaned close to give her a quick hug. He was his close friend, so maybe he had some insight that would help him. Dong Yishan could have a different perspective for him to look through, and he would take any help that was offered to him at this point.

    "Of course. You have some exining to do," Dong Yishan told him as he sipped on her vodka cranberry. She waved her hand to g down the waitress. "Jack and Coke."

    The waitress nodded and hurried away to put in the order.

    Liam shed her a grateful look before crossing his arms on the surface of the table. Dong Yishan didn''t know what was going on, but she did know that Ying Sheng randomly stormed off from her own birthday celebration. That was enough to make her curious about what was going on. He wasn''t going to spill all of Ying Sheng''s business, but he did need some advice.

    "I made her upset. I went behind her back to do something, heard bad news, didn''t tell her about the bad news, and just let her find out on her own. She found out I did that and won''t talk to me," Liam exined, giving her a short rundown of what had unfolded. He figured she could still help him, even if she didn''t know the full story.

    Dong Yishan hummed as she listened to him, tapping her chin thoughtfully as she peered at him.

    "Well, you definitely messed up. She''s never just stormed off like that before," she told him as she leaned forward.

 Chapter 331 Madly in love

    <h4>Chapter 331 Madly in love</h4>

    "I made her upset. I went behind her back to do something, heard bad news, didn''t tell her about the bad news, and just let her find out on her own. She found out I did that and won''t talk to me," Liam exined, giving her a short rundown of what had unfolded. He figured she could still help him, even if she didn''t know the full story.

    Dong Yishan hummed as she listened to him, tapping her chin thoughtfully as she peered at him.

    "Well, you definitely messed up. She''s never just stormed off like that before," she told him as she leaned forward.

    Liam sighed and nodded, shame dawning on him once again.

    "Yeah, I know that. I miss her so much," he muttered as he scratched at the back of his neck. When the waitress dropped off his drink, he thanked her before downing half of it, wanting it to take the edge off a little. He had been stewing in his own shame and guilt for far too long now. He needed to do something about it.

    "You really care about her, don''t you?" Dong Yishan asked him as she twirled her straw around in her drink.

    Liam was surprised at the switch in her tone. She actually sounded serious and not like her usual yful self. He supposed that it hadn''t been that big of a secret that he liked Ying Sheng . He followed her around like a lost puppy, and he lit up whenever she entered the room he was in. However, he might''ve messed that all up.

    "I do. I just want her to be happy, and I messed that up. I messed up her birthday¡­ everything. What should I do?" Liam sighed, feeling lost. He didn''t know how to find his way back to how things used to be between them. He had no idea how he had gotten so lost and out of the way from where he was supposed to be.

    Ying Sheng took a deep sip of her drink before looking back up at him.

    "She''s stubborn. She''s probably hiding and licking her wounds, but it''s about time for her toe out. You have to put yourself out there. No shy Liam , who''s afraid to get down and dirty. You need to make her hear you," Dong Yishan replied as she pushed her finger against the surface of the table aggressively.

    Liam shied away a little from her suggestion, not knowing if that was a good idea or not. He knew that Ying Sheng just needed some time, but he didn''t know how much time she needed. Maybe she wasn''t ready yet, and he didn''t want to approach her if she wasn''t ready. That would just make her not like him even more.

    "I don''t know¡­ that sounds a little aggressive, don''t you think?" Liam asked her, wondering if she knew how bold that sounded. He didn''t think that a heavy fist would help someone who was emotionally vulnerable like Ying Sheng

    "I know it is, but have your shy attempts worked yet? She needs a push, Liam. You have to draw her out and keep her attention," Dong Yishan told him firmly.

    The more that Liam listened to her, the more that he realized that she could actually be right. What he had been doingtely hadn''t produced any results, so he needed to try one more time, but it had to be big and bold. He had to make her listen to him.

    "I''m just nervous and clueless," Liam chuckled weakly as he shrugged. He knew what he needed to do, but he didn''t know how to actually do it.

    "Well, her birthday sucked. Recreate it to be better," Dong Yishan suggested before sitting back in her seat and finishing off the rest of her drink.

    Liam pondered on that, building a n in his head. He had wanted her birthday celebration to be a great one, and it had ended up failing horribly. Maybe he could try again, but things would go right this time. It wouldn''t involve her parents, but she didn''t need them. She needed someone who cared for her and to show her that she was worth the world.

    "You think she''d actually like that? I figured she would even hate the thought of her birthday after everything that happened," Liam sighed. He couldn''t me Ying Sheng if she felt that way either. It was an awful day, and he doubted that she would forget it anytime soon.

    "That''s what you have to fix. Make her like the idea of it again. Erase whatever pain you can," Dong Yishan replied with a shrug.

    "Thanks,Dong Yishan . You''ve really helped me out," Liam thanked her profusely. He didn''t know what he would''ve done without her. He was grateful that she had taken him seriously too. He had expected her to y around and make fun of him, but she had shown him another side of her. Now, he had an idea, and that was all that he needed to start with. The rest would fall into ce.

    "Of course. I love you guys, and I know that you''re good for her," Dong Yishan told him with a small smile.

    "I try to be. I want to be because she deserves the best," Liam replied, hoping that he could be that for her. He didn''t want to break her heart like Han Zhao. He didn''t want to let her down like her parents. He wanted to be different from all of them. He wanted to be good.

    "Make it right," Dong Yishan told him with a firm look.

    Liam nodded, promising her that he would try. He owed it to himself and to Ying Sheng to try again because things could go back to being great for them. They could help each other pass this darkness and get to where they needed to be. He just had to show her that she could seed without her parents'' approval.

    Steadily, his n started to grow and expand. His thoughts became clearer, and he suddenly knew what he wanted to do for her. Since she was out of the apartment for awhile, he wanted to do it today and get started now. However, he would have to be fast because he had to gather a lot of things and then set the apartment up.

    "I gotta run. I have to pull off something almost impossible," Liam told Dong Yishan before downing the rest of his drink. He pped a bill on the table before standing up.

    "That''s the spirit. Get my girl!" Dong Yishan cheered him on as she lifted her empty ss to him.

    Liam chuckled and nodded before heading out of the bar. He got into his car and immediately took off into the heart of town, knowing that he had a lot of stops to make. He couldn''t believe that he was doing this, but he was in love.

    That was the only reason that he could think of to make him do such crazy things, but he didn''t regret a single thing that he did for Ying Sheng,whether it was something small and subtle or grand and crazy. She was worth each and every little thing, and he was determined to prove that to her one way or another.

 Chapter 332 Celebration

    <h4>Chapter 332 Celebration</h4>

    Ying Sheng leaned her head back to lightly roll it, a sigh breaking from her that lightly echoed throughout the area of the library that she was in. She was finally finished with her business n with only a few days to spare. She stared at thest words for a few more seconds, trying to figure out how she felt about the whole thing.

    She had worked hard on it, but she knew that it didn''t have as much ir and passion in it as it did when she had been working on it before her birthday. When she had been writing it then, she had put her heart and soul into it. Every word felt right.

    Now, she was just finishing it to finish it. Everything was right in a technical manner, but the spirit seemed to be missing. She just hoped that it was good enough to pass. Then, she didn''t know what she would do. Maybe her spirit woulde back, but it felt so far away now. She didn''t like that feeling, like she was disconnected from her own soul.

    Ying Sheng rubbed her hands over her face, unsure of what to do now. She hade here to finish up her business n and to get out of the apartment for awhile. She hadn''t said much to Liam because she didn''t know what to say. She was still a little hurt over him lying to her, and that didn''t help her lonely feeling.

    Her parents didn''t want anything to do with her. They hadn''t even called her back after she had called them. Now, the person she was closest to in her life had withheld important information from her and stood by to let her get hurt. She didn''t know how to feel, and she felt like anything he would say would just confuse her more. She thought that they looked out for each other.

    Maybe she had opened her heart up too soon to him. She had let him in, let him know her. Maybe that had been a mistake. People hurt the ones closest to them all the time. She didn''t know why she thought that she was exempt from that. She just wanted to feel safe for once.

    With a sigh, she decided to just head back to the apartment. She could make a sandwich and then disappear into her room for the night before Liam could confront her again. She just didn''t feel like talking about what happened anymore. She felt like a broken record, and she didn''t want to hear herself repeat the same sob story. She was tired of her own sadness.

    After packing herptop back into her backpack, she slung it onto her back and walked through the library toward the exit. Everything around her seemed to blur into the background, her focus slipping. She just wanted to get home.

    The walk back to her car felt like it took forever, her steps seeming to drag as she crossed the parking lot. The drive back wasn''t any faster, but she made it to the apartment eventually. She drew in a steadying breath before opening the front door and stepping inside only to immediately stop in ce.

    The apartment was pitch ck except for countless lighted candles glowing throughout the darkness. She almost panicked for a second, thinking that the ce was on fire. She fumbled for the light switch, turning on the light between the kitchen and living room to reveal a huge assortment of different baked goods and pastries, ranging from small cakes to brownies to muffins. They were ced all over the apartment on any open surface.

    "What the hell?" She muttered as she nced around, trying to figure out what was going on. She also spotted a few streamers and balloons hanging around the area.

    Liam suddenly walked out of the hallway that led to their bedrooms, a surprised look adorning his face.

    Ying Sheng guessed that he hadn''t expected her toe home so soon. She had no clue what he was up to, prompting her to cross her arms over her chest.

    "What''s going on?" She asked him, lifting an eyebrow at him.

    Liam walked closer to her, gesturing to all of the baked goods.

    "Setting up a makeshift bakery," he responded in a casual tone. He picked up a red velvet cookie and bit into it, humming at its sweet taste. "You should definitely include red velvet sweets."

    "It''s not that popr of a vor," Ying Sheng murmured, eyeing him as he came closer. He seemed to be dodging around her question, but she would y his game if he would eventually tell her what was going on. She didn''t get the point of filling their apartment with so many sweets. Though, they did look and smell really good.

    "You just don''t like it. It''s popr,"Liam pointed out as he stopped a few feet in front of her. He finished off the cookie and then wiped the crumbs off of his hands.

    "What are you up to? Is this some sort of stunt to wow me or something?" Ying Sheng asked him. If she was honest, it did wow her a little bit due to all of the effort he had to have gone through to pack the house with sweets and decorations in such little time. She had only been gone for a few hours, and he had managed to already pull all of this off.

    "A stunt? Maybe. It''s¡­ a celebration," Liam replied before leaning over to pick up a striped birthday kazoo, the tongue rolling out as he blew into it. He then tossed it aside.

    Ying Sheng sighed, her arms dropping from in front of her chest. She guessed that this was an attempt to make up for her birthday. He really didn''t have to do this. She wasn''t really in the birthday mood anymore.

    "Thest one didn''t go so well," Ying Sheng reminded him, wondering why he wanted to bring up the past. She considered fleeing to her room before the conversation kept heading that way, but she couldn''t bring herself to move from the spot. He was looking at her with eyes so full of hope that she felt frozen.

    "Because I ruined it," Liam replied with a small nod.

 Chapter 333 ILU

    <h4>Chapter 333 ILU</h4>

    Well, more like my parents did," Ying Sheng told him. His lying didn''t help, but it all came down to her parents. They ruined everything, and she wished that she could just let the thought of them go. She wished that she could forget about them, but their voices were stuck in her head.

    Liam gave her a pointed look, like he didn''t believe her words.

    "I kept something from you¡­ something that I should''ve told you. It was your business in the first ce," Liam started to say, a guilty look crossing his face.

    Ying Sheng nced down at the floor, unable to look into his eyes for the moment. He looked so upset, and she couldn''t help but not want him to be. No matter what had happened between them, she still wanted him to be happy. It was a natural hope for her to have for him.

    "I just don''t understand why you didn''t tell me in the first ce," she murmured, wondering what discouraged him from opening up to her. She thought that they told each other nearly everything, but that must''ve been one of the things to slip in between the cracks. It didn''t fly well with her because it was something pertaining to her.

    "Honestly¡­ I was afraid of breaking the bad news to you. I knew it would crush you because you wanted to make things right with your parents. You had been so happytely that I just couldn''t bring myself to put an end to that. I wanted you to have at least another week of happiness before you found out,"Liam admitted, hanging his head slightly as he spoke.

    Ying Sheng felt a small tug on her heart as she listened to him speak, hearing the sadness in his voice. She could tell that he felt bad about the situation, that he regretted his actions. At least he was genuine. She was grateful for that.

    "You don''t have to try to protect me like that. I need to be able to handle things like that on my own," Ying Sheng sighed, wishing that she was actually strong enough to do that. She had doubts about her own strength. Her parents had knocked her down one too many times, and it was getting harder and harder to get up.

    "Of course I want to protect you. You mean everything to me," Liam replied, gazing at her like she should''ve already known that.

    Ying Sheng blinked a few times in surprise, warmth burning at her cheeks. She had never heard someone say such sweet words to her before, and she knew that he meant them. She hoped that he wouldn''t lie about that.

    "I shouldn''t¡­ you could find someone so much better for you than me," she told him. He had made a mistake, but he was still one of the most special people that she had ever met. Even after everything, he had staged this bakery-like celebration for her since she wanted to own her own bakery. She didn''t miss the little details and the thought that he had put into this.

    Liam took a moment before reaching out to take her hands.

    "I wish you knew how important you are to so many people in your life. I know you don''t feel that way. I know you feel like a burden. That''s all your parents told you growing up," Liam murmured softly, gently taking her chin in his free hand when she tried to look away from him. "They''re wrong about you."

    Ying Sheng felt her eyes start to burn, her emotions starting to soar. She wanted to believe him and his sweet words. The source of her insecurities had been her parents, who made her feel worthless. Liam seemed to think that she was worth everything.

    "How do you know that they are?" She asked. Maybe he was just biased, and her parents were right.

    "Because they don''t even know you. They don''t know who you are or what you can aplish. I know you and everything that you can do. I know that your bakery is going to be a sess. I know you,Ying Sheng " Liam exined to her, his fingertips lightly grazing her cheek.

    Even if she didn''t want to believe him, she did. He did know her better than her parents, who had never even tried to get to know their own daughter. If anyone could determine her worth and her future, it would be someone who was close to her, who had an idea of the path that she was heading down. There was no one more knowledgeable on that than Liam.

    I know you do¡­ like I know you. I should''ve never doubted that you cared for me. You''re the most important person in my life," Ying Sheng admitted as she reached up to ce her hand over his. She could feel words demanding to be said, and she refused to hold them back any longer. "I love you."

    Liam stared at her in shock, a smile steadily crossing his lips as he fully registered her words.

    "I love you too. I wanted to tell you again sooner, but I was nervous," he murmured as his thumb lightly stroked her cheek.

    "You''re always nervous," Ying Sheng gently teased him, but she found it to be cute. He wasn''t full of himself like her parents. He was humble and kind, and everyone knew how smart he was. He didn''t have to boast about that for people to be impressed.

    "Especially around you, but it''s a good type of nervous," Liam mused as his other hand reached out to rest on her waist, pulling her body closer to his. "My heart races¡­ and it feels like every inch of my skin is tingling."

    Ying Sheng could feel her body warming to his touch. She couldn''t help it. She loved to be touched by him, whether it was physically or emotionally. He knew just how to calm her and how to show her the truth. Her parents filled her head with lies, and he had been trying to tell her the truth all along.

 Chapter 334 Trust

    <h4>Chapter 334 Trust</h4>

    It kind of sounds simr to being turned out," sheughed softly, cing her other hand on his upper arm. The closer he got, the more her worries melted away. He had talked sense into her. His love for her was far stronger than the disregard that her parents had for her. She had to choose where to focus her energy at, and she didn''t want to waste one more molecule on them when Liam was worth it all.

    Liam blushed a little as he shook his head at her. Then, he stopped and nced over at her, his smile turning slightly sly.

    "You''re not wrong. It feels like I''m on fire when I''m around you," he told her as he moved his hand up to lightly tuck a strand of her hair behind her ear. His eyes shed with hers, a tense moment being shared between them.

    Ying Sheng was so focused on how he was looking at her and how smooth his voice sounded that she didn''t even remember why she was upset in the first ce. He had put her mind at ease and had awakened her body all at the same time. She couldn''t grasp how he was able to do that so easily to her, like he had some sort of spell over her.

    "Well, I do know a good way to cool off," she teased him as she yed with the end of his shirt. The only thing that she wanted to do right now was to get even closer to him. She wanted to feel him, all of him, and she wanted to feel that connection with him again. Last time, she could''ve sworn their very souls had been joined together.

    Plus, she just admitted to him that she loved him. Things had been taken to a new level, and she wanted to do something to make this moment even more memorable on top of the bakery celebration that he had put into ce. She would be sure to indulge in it soon, but she had something else on her mind right now.

    "Come on, love," Liam smirked at her before taking her hand and leading her away from their apartment''s makeshift bakery.

    ************

    Despite all of their teasing and ying around, things eventually turned serious once they stumbled into Liam''s bedroom, their hands already reaching for the other. All of the stress and sadness that he had felt earlier started melting away from her fiery touches as her hands drifted down his chest and her lips caressed his.

    It seemed like his extended apology and bakery celebration had worked out, and now he knew that they felt the same about each other. It wasn''t just a crush. It was love, and he couldn''t be happier that things had turned out like this. For a moment there, he thought that they were doomed, even as an optimist.

    "You''re thinking too much," Ying Sheng breathed out, her fingers lightly curling to tug at his hair.

    Liam immediately snapped out of his thoughtful daze, focusing instead on what he was feeling. There were so many sensations already happening, and he knew that things were only going to grow more intense. His lips moved against hers in smooth, heated motions, falling in sync together.

    Ying Sheng wrapped her arms around his neck and started to back up, pulling him with her as she fell onto the surface of his bed. She curled her legs around his waist, using her grip to pull his hips down between her legs.

    Liam grunted at the friction, his lips moving to trace along the side of her neck, easily finding the spots that made her writhe beneath him. He liked having her body pressed up against his, like they were one person. Being a part of each other was the most vulnerable he had ever been, but he trusted her with his life, his soul, his everything.

    Ying Sheng pulled his shirt up and off of him before sitting up to tug off her T-shirt and bra. She tossed the material elsewhere before pulling him back down so that their bare skin could meet. Her tongue traced his, their quick breaths colliding as they moved together.

    Liam cupped her face to draw her eyes to his, needing to take a moment to say something to her.

    "I won''t ever hurt you again. You know that, right?" Liam murmured, wanting her to know that his mistake wouldn''t be repeated. He cared about her, so he was going to protect her, even from himself. It had crushed him to see her so withdrawn from him, and he was intent to make sure that didn''t happen again.

    Ying Sheng gazed into his eyes for a moment before smiling and nodding. She lifted her hands to rest over his, their fingers twining.

    "I know. I trust you," she told him with certainty.

    Liam smiled out of relief before capturing her lips again, his hands roaming along her body as she grabbed at him. He pulled her hips closer, grinding down against her to make her arch her back to chase the motion. A soft groan sounded from him as the friction amped up, his jeans feeling particrly constricting now.

    "I need you," Ying Sheng murmured as her fingers twisted with his soft hair.

    "You have me," Liam promised her before pulling back to undo her jeans. He grabbed the waist of her pants and panties before edging them down her legs and throwing the clothes off of the bed. He pushed off the remainder of his clothes, wanting to get as close as possible.

    Ying Sheng shed him a smile as he moved back over her, her eyes fluttering shut as his lips caressed her hard nipples. Her teeth sunk into her bottom lip as she reveled in how soft his tongue felt. When he sucked and lightly dragged his teeth along the peaks, she gasped gently.

    That sound drove Liam crazy, prompting him to wet two fingers before sliding them between her thighs. He pushed through her folds to find her clit, rubbing the pads of his fingers against the sensitive spot to make her moan. He drank in her sounds and continued to swirl his tongue around one of her nipples.

    "Confident now, are we?" Ying Shengughed out breathlessly.

 Chapter 335 Believe

    <h4>Chapter 335 Believe</h4>

    That sound drove Liam crazy, prompting him to wet two fingers before sliding them between her thighs. He pushed through her folds to find her clit, rubbing the pads of his fingers against the sensitive spot to make her moan. He drank in her sounds and continued to swirl his tongue around one of her nipples.

    "Confident now, are we?" Ying Shengughed out breathlessly.

    Liam felt a little surer of himself this time since it wasn''t his first time, but he still wouldn''t mind any guidance. He was sure that he had plenty to learn about different ways to please her, and he wanted to know all of them.

    "Getting there," Liam replied before pushing his fingers down farther. He pushed them inside of her slowly, one finger after the other. Steadily, he curled them, searching for that spot that made her toes curl.

    "Liam¡­." Ying Sheng whined out as her hips seemed to push down against his hand. She grabbed at his hair, tugging lightly whenever he curled his fingers in steady thrusts.

    Liam almost had to grit his teeth to control himself, her noises and actions driving him wild. He shifted his hand so that his thumb could press against her clit while his fingers pressed into her. He wasn''t sure if that would feel good or not, but the heightened sound of her moans told him that the move was the right one. He just had to listen, and he would know the answer.

    Ying Sheng threw her head back, drawing in a deep breath before pulling him up farther on her body. She kissed him deeply before pulling back to look at him.

    "Get on your back," she told him with a sly smile.

    Liam didn''t question her and nodded before moving to roll onto his back. He watched her move, her legs straddling his waist as she positioned herself over him before leaning over to find another condom in his drawer.

    He realized what she was doing, heat ming through him and burning every inch of him. He grabbed her hips, watching her roll the condom down his length before sinking down on him slowly, her heat enveloping him.

    "Oh¡­" Liam groaned out as he pressed his head back against the mattress. He couldn''t begin to describe how good she felt, and he wasn''t even going to try. He was just going to enjoy being with her. He gazed up at her, a slightly nervous look crossing his face.

    Ying Sheng seemed to sense his shyness. It was his first time in this position, and there would be many first times he would share with her. She drifted her hands up and down his chest, lightly dragging her nails until she ced her palms against his chest. She steadily lifted her hips off of him before moving back down.

    Liam watched her slowly bounce on hisp, his jaw tightening briefly. He closed his eyes for a moment, but he didn''t want to miss the chance to watch her as she moved. He opened his eyes back up, tracing her movements.

    "You''re so perfect," he murmured, sounding dazed and awed. He meant his words. There hadn''t ever been another girl on the that had made him feel like this.

    Ying Sheng smiled down at him before leaning down to kiss him sweetly, her body still moving against his in a steady rhythm. She started to move faster as the kiss deepened, her teeth gracing his bottom lip.

    Liam ced a hand on the back of her neck beneath her hair, holding her close as he lifted his hips to meet her movements. She heard her breath hitch, prompting him to match her faster and harder pace. He could already feel the heat growing more and more intense, building up to a nearly overwhelming burn.

    Ying Sheng rolled her hips down, angling her body to draw louder sounds of bliss from her. She closed her eyes tightly, her lips falling open as her skin grew warmer.

    "That feels so good," she purred near his ear.

    Liam felt another wave of heat strike him at her tone, prompting him to grab her waist tighter. He could feel her body starting to tremble. She was close, and he wanted to push her over that edge. He grabbed her and then flipped them over, pressing her down into the mattress as he pushed into her.

    A gasp rang out from Ying Sheng , her cheeks flushing as her back arched beneath him. She reached out to grip the sheets as he amped up his thrusts, her eyes squeezing shut.

    Liam dropped a hand down between her thighs to rub her clit, feeling her thighs try to close, but he kept them open. He could feel himself getting close, but he focused on her and held off. He wanted to see her fall off the edge first, to listen to her sweet sounds.

    "Liam!" Ying Sheng breathed out, tremors of bliss shuddering through her as she sumbed to the heat overtaking her entire body.

    Liam maintained his pace, drawing out her bliss for as long as he possibly could until he couldn''t ward off his orgasm any longer. He dropped his head down to her shoulder, feeling her nails dig into his back as his motions slowed to a stop. He moved his hands to slip under her shoulder des, holding her close to his body as they came down from that blissful high.

    Ying Sheng leaned her head against his, drawing in a deep breath through her nose as her heart hammered against her chest. She lightly ran her fingers through Liam''s hair in a loving manner, a small smile appearing on her face.

    "Even better thanst time," Ying Sheng giggled softly.

    Liam chuckled against her corbone before lifting his head to gaze down at her. With her cheeks flushed and her eyes dark, she looked so beautiful. He could stare at her for the rest of the day with no problem because she had countless features to admire.

    "Really?" He asked, hoping that was true. He cared about her pleasure. He wasn''t going to be one of those guys who only cared about themselves. Ying Sheng deserved better, and he was going to give her everything she deserved and more.

    "Hell yeah. You''re getting to know my body as well as you already know my mind," Ying Shengughed as she lightly tapped the tip of his nose.

    "I want to know everything about you," Liam pointed out with a lightugh. He wanted her to be a part of his life forever, and he would be happy to grow alongside her. They were still young. There was so much more room left to grow.

    "We''ve got plenty of time. We can talk while we eat all of the baked goods you got. Did you raid a bakery?" Ying Sheng smirked at him, cocking an eyebrow at him curiously.

    "You''ll never find out," Liam replied before yfully nudging her nose with his. He had actually depleted around three bakeries of their supply, but he supposed that it was good that he supported local businesses. He knew that the baked goods wouldn''t go to waste. "You should get used to the sight of so many sweets too."

    Ying Sheng''s face softened at that a little as she nodded.

    "Thank you for believing in me," she told him sincerely.

    Liam smiled at her as he reached over to gently stroke her cheek. There had never been a moment when he hadn''t believed in her. She was smarter and stronger than she thought she was, and he would always be impressed by her drive. He knew that things could get dark for her, but he would always be her light.

    "I always will. I believe in us too," he told her, believing that they were good for each other. She fit with him like a puzzle piece, like they were always meant to be. Now, he believed they were strong enough to where nothing could break them apart again.

    "I never thought you''d love a girl like me," Ying Shengughed softly, gazing at him in an adoring manner as she leaned into his touch.

    "And I never thought you''d love a guy like me,"Liam pointed out. She was bold and beautiful. For so long, he thought that he had no business trying to pursue a girl like her. He had surprised himself by making a dream be a reality. He didn''t have to rely on his thoughts for happiness because he had everything he needed right in his hands.

 Chapter 336 The call

    <h4>Chapter 336 The call</h4>

    Yan Mei woke up from the sensation of someone nting a kiss on her forehead. She bemoaned as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes.

    "What would you like for breakfast?" Lei Zhao asked as he nted a kiss on her lips.

    "Lei Zhao, I haven''t brushed my teeth!" Yan Mei giggled as she rolled away from him. Lei Zhao grabbbed her preventing her from escaping. He pullled her against his chest, nuzzling his face in the crook of her neck.

    "Hmm I know...but I don''t really care." Lei Zhao tightened his arms around her, smiling against her shoulder.

    Yan Meiughed as she tried to break away from him.

    "Rogue, let go of me!"

    "Not a chance babe. I''m never letting you go!" Lei Zhao chuckled, tickling her.

    "Lei Zhao, stop¡­please stop " Yan Mei said in betweenughter as she tried to pull away from him. She yfully punched him in the stomach as she untangled herself from his grasp and scooted to the edge of the bed.

    "Ouch, when did you be this violent!"

    Yan Mei smirked at him, "The moment a rogue decided to tickle me to death when he haven''t fed me breakfast yet!"

    Lei Zhao grinned,"So I can tickle you to death after I have feed you very well?" He said gruffly, his eyes zing as his gaze traveled to her lips.

    Yan Mei sucked her lower lips between her teeth, bitting down briefly.

    Lei Zhao''s eyes darkened at her action.

    "I know what you are thinking but just don''t." Yan Mei scoffed as she jumped to her feet, throwing a pillow at him before she darted towards the bathroom.

    Leaving a grumpy bad wolf behind.

    **********

    After Yan Mei had brushed her teeth, she took a long hot shower. She changed into a big cashmere sweater and shorts beforeing downstairs.

    The moment she reached the kitchen, she saw Lei Zhao on the phone. In a blink of an eye, she saw the blood drained from his face.

    "It''s everything okay?" But Lei Zhao was far lost in his thoughts to even hear her.

    "How.." he mumbled as the phone dropped from his hand. The words of the police officer continued to echo in his mind.

    Yan Mei sighed and waited for him toe out of the shock that he was in. She studied the side of his face as she gazed down at him, examining the way his brows furrowed.

    After a minute of him not saying anything, Yan Mei finally broke the silence.

    "You know the fact that you answered a call and suddenly became pale is making me really nervous. Did you perhaps get a girl pregnant?"

    Yan Mei said teasingly, trying to lightened the awkward silence.

    Lei Zhao didn''t look at her but the corner of his lips turned up slightly, "I will never¡­"

    Lei Zhao said quietly as he kept his eyes ahead. Frustration and concern roared through Yan Mei. She couldn''t help but shuddered as a horrid feeling came over her.

    She knew something bad would definitely happened. Her life has been going too smoothly these days. It was too hard to believe.

    She has finally found peace with herself, Wang Lu got out of the hospital unscathed and told her that he has jailed his mother for paying the driver who hit her with a car. She never thought that he would do something like that for her.

    Leng Shao and Su Bei has officially dating and she was happy for her friends.

    Ying Sheng also seem to get her life back on track and she looked very happy thest time she had met her.

    It was like everyone has gotten their happily ever after. It''s too good to be truth.

    "Lei Zhao¡­" Yan Mei called out, fear evident in her voice.

    This time, he smiled at her meeting her eyes for the first time since he received the call.

    "I-I just received a call from the police station" Lei Zhao said slowly.

    "Police station?" Yan Mei brows knitted together in confusion.

    "Yes" Lei Zhao forced out huskily.

    "Do you remember Yue Yan?"

    Yan Mei nodded, " Yeah, your ex-girlfriend and best friend¡­" Yan Mei said quietly.

    "I just received a call from the police station. They said there is someone at a hospital called Trauma hospital iming to be her. She was ina and just woke up but she can''t remember anyone except her name and mine."

    Yan Mei widened her eyes in surprise. "But I thought she disappeared?"

    Lei Zhao nodded, "I thought she had left me¡­ I thought¡­.but all this while she was ina. The person who found her, said she was in a pretty bad shape when she found her. They never thought she would wake up."

    Yan Mei blinked and waited for him to calm down before approaching him.

    Lei Zhao felt a light brush of fingers across the back of his hand. She nced up to meet his face.

    "It''s okay, you don''t have to me yourself. Look at the bigger picture, she is okay now and that is the most important thing."

    Yan Mei whispered softly as she cozies him.

    "Sorry it just that I promised her that I would take care of her."

    Yan Mei smiled and nodded in understanding. She knew all about her husband ex girlfriend so she understands his fears and guilt.

    "Go and bring her home, if it''s really Yue Yan then she is definitelying home. I''m curious about your only female friend at high school!"

    Lei Zhao gazed at her in disbelief. "Home? As I''m I should bring her to our house?"

    Yan Mei smiled,"Of course! She might be feeling scared and lonely all by herself. I can apany her"

    Lei Zhao stared at her as if she had lost her mind. Which women in her right mind would allow her husband to bring home his ex-girlfriend?!

    "No, I''m not bringing her in our home. That''s absurd."

    Yan Mei chuckled, "You said your rtionship was all a facade to protect her. There was nothing between you too so what''s the problem?"

 Chapter 337 Yue Yan

    <h4>Chapter 337 Yue Yan</h4>

    "Come down to the hospital"

    " Try to identify her''

    "The police are trying to solve the case"

    "It''s been a cold case"

    "Asking for you"

    "She identified you by name and gave us your contact name"

    "Her name is Yue "

    "Yue Yan"

    "Trauma of the ident"

    "Amnesia"

    "Awake"

    Lei Zhao couldn''t help the low hum of shock that threatened to shake him physically.

    In his mind, snippets of conversation whirled around, teasing him with a thousand scenarios, every one worse than thest but also tinged with a suffocating level of anticipation and hope.

    "Calm down" he scolded himself, his voice purposefully harsh but it didn''t do much to calm him down. Hope was such a terrible drug to be mixed up in.

    Preupied with his thoughts, he was startled by the soft, "you may see her now"

    Lei Zhao mbered to his feet gracelessly to find a talldy wearing scrubs regarding him with a rueful and understanding smile. "Sorry to startle you"

    "It''s nothing" Lei Zhao deflected, anticipatory nerves making his words shaky "lost in my thoughts, it doesn''t take much doing"

    "The doctor is done with her now, let me lead you to her room" the nurse replied

    "Thank you" Lei Zhao returned, but he was talking to thin air. The scrubs wearing nurse had already slipped out of the room and was heading away through the corridor at a measured but fast clip, Lei Zhao followed hot on her heels, unwilling to lose sight of her

    The smell of the hospital around him brought back several memories, many of which he didn''t want to experience again. He clenched his fist against the onught, breathing through his mouth trying to dilute the burn of antiseptic in his nose.

    It was a futile action, it was more than the stark scent or chemicals. If death, the gradual and inevitable loss of hope coupled with a wave of frustrated anger had a smell, he was perceiving it right now. It seemed every hospital had that smell and no matter how hard he tried, it kept with him, seeping through his pores, into his skin and his mind.

    He shuddered and tried to walk faster, he''d never known hospital corridors to be so long and foreboding.

    The nurse stalled in front of a room door and went in after a single knock. Lei Zhao slipped in and saw a body lying feebly in bed.

    As if she sensed him, the body came awake in slow degrees, turning to him with an unerring certainly before the eyelids opened to shower a confused gaze on him.

    Lei Zhao gasped, he couldn''t help it, it was like a terrible blow and every Christmas of his life rolled into one "Yue Yan?" he asked softly as if a raised voice would make the apparition in front of him disappear.

    "Lei Zhao?" the voice came, just as softly filled with a lot of confusion and terribly unsure.

    Lei Zhao quickly sidestepped the nurse and headed for his best friend with a small grunt of disbelief erupting from his throat "oh my God, Yue Yan it''s you, it''s really you."

    With more confidence than before yet coupled with a shaky smile, she replied "is it really you dude? Am I dreaming again?"

    "No, you''re not dreaming, it''s really me. You''re back with us." Lei Zhao reassured her, his voice pitched low to be soothing

    I was lost for the longest time and I didn''t know if my dreams were real" Yun Yan recalled in a soft voice tinged with fear, almost hesitant to admit it. Lei Zhao almost choked at the vulnerable words, he moved closer and caught his friend''s hands before sitting on the bedside chair provided just for that purpose.

    Lei Zhao lifted his hands and wiped the tears from his friend''s face. He knew how it was when a person''s greatest enemy was their own damn mind, he''d been there before "I know honey, I know, but you''re with me now,pletely safe"

    "I believe you, in my dreams, I was never in the hospital. Just shopping, eating, and smiling. Sometimes parties and dancing but never a hospital" Yue Yan smiled, giving him an impish smile that was much too familiar, one he had never expected to see again in this lifetime.

    "Attagirl" he crooned in soft praise

    "I mean if this was my dream, I''d love a really hot doctor in it, no offense nurse", thest part directed at the nurse somehow still in the room, Lei Zhao chuckled softly, he hadpletely forgotten about her when he caught sight of his friend, his eyes were riveted on the familiar smirk on s face, Yue Yan''s was bolder, more like the one he knew in the past

    "None was taken, I guess that''s my cue to butt out, please don''t tire her out." The nurse chipped in before walking out, closing the doors softly behind her

    "I''ve missed you, champ" the voice came again and Lei Zhao tightened his hand around Yue Yan''s own, afraid that if he let go, his friend would just fade away.

    "Not a much as I have missed you cupcake" and he meant it, he had felt betrayed, angry and sad when he thought that she had left him alone when he needed her the most, and now, here she was and it was almost as if a part of him couldn''t believe it. Not yet

    They sat like that for the longest time. Filling the position room with frantic words trying to reconnect and putting names to faces for her and him, unfortunately, tired her out, at a point she had fallen asleep but he had remained on beside her, worried and nning. It was his forte.

    The ringing phone startled him, it was a low humidity that he felt through his skin but it was enough to bring him back from around some ten million thoughts crowding his head to the present.

    He removed the phone from his breast pocket, spied his caller, and just sighed. He smiled for the first time since he had entered the hospital, the relief in his voice and body palpable as he walked out of the small hospital room, closed the door with a soft click, and answered the call.

 Chapter 338 Home

    <h4>Chapter 338 Home</h4>

    "Hey Lei Zhao" she raised her head briefly to look at him before returning to the tray of slop on herps

    "I''ve already talked to the doctor, you''ll be getting discharged from the hospital anding home with me" he delivered softly, fighting a smile at herical disappointment with the contents of her tray. At his words, she brightened visibly before deting with a sigh.

    "Not toin or anything, after all, I''mpletely tired of this hospital and disgusted even if I haven''t seen beyond these four walls, the thing is I can''t turn myself into a leech on you." She replied before grabbing the spoon to the left and poked the contents of a te.

    "Don''t be like that, you have a healthy bank ount yourself" Lei Zhao countered gently

    "I do?" She asked, genuinely puzzled as if the idea had not urred to her at any point.

    "Don''t tell me you forgot that," Lei Zhao answered with a sad smile, wondering how bad things really were for her to forget that she was the owner of a small fortune. Well not outrageously wealthy but independently so, a small bank ount that he passed liberally for her regrly. Something he had started to do when they had started the harmless ruse.

    Yue Yan tapped her head with a wan smile before she beamed at him "cool, that means I should make arrangements of my own"

    "That''s not gonna work." He pointed out casually.

    "Why not?" she groused, ring at him for a short second before she returned to eyeing the contents of her tray tantly, the desire for something different was obvious even to a blind man

    "My wife has ordered me to bring you home," Lei Zhao reported proudly but judging by her reaction, he should have eased her into the news, but he didn''t know it was so damn explosive until she jerked and the contents of her tray went flying, luckily they only sttered on the bedclothes, too thick to go further.

    "Woah, are you alright?" He queried a trifle ashamed at his insensitivity

    "You''re married now?" All her attention fixated on him

    "Yes" he answered, feeling a trifle foolish

    Ignoring the mess in front of her she aimed the spoon in his direction with a re and a threat "Tell me everything about her, don''t miss a single thing"

    "Why don''t youe and see her for yourself, you guys will absolutely love each other" he returned with a smile

    "ckmail huh" Yue Yan sniffed then pouted

    "There will be good food too" he added to sweeten the deal.

    "Definitely ckmail" she nodded and dropped the stic spoon with a Carter on the tray with its offensive contents

    "Seriously, she''s ordered me to bring you back home, she''s already making the arrangements. If I leave you to your own ns I won''t get a wink of sleep tonight or any other night for that matter" he pleaded with a smile

    "She''s got you trained, so she puts you in the doghouse that easy, and you let her?" Yue Yan teased

    "Yan Mei can''t even keep a temper for more than ten minutes. She''ll just wake up every second worried that you''ve fallen down the stairs wherever you are and bleeding to death or some crazy scenarios" heined but anyone could see he was feigning his disgust; his smile was much too wide to sell those words.

    "I know all about crazy scenarios" her small voice sounding unbearably vulnerable.

    "You see? You guys are going to get along just fine,e to my ce and recuperate, at least rx a while and heal before making other ns for the future." He finished with a flourish of logic that had Yue Yan rolling her eyes at him.

    "You said there will be good food" she finally asked, staring at the tray in herp.

    "My chef would like nothing better than to dote on you, my wife loves him too. I''m too busy nowadays so I hired a chef" he touted, his pride shining out of him.

    "You really love her" was the next words he heard.

    The observation caught him off guard and had him hot by the cor, he didn''t exactly know how to discuss the love he had for his wife with his ex-girlfriend. He was out of his depth and rapidly feeling as if he was insensitive, there was no manual to safely navigate these waters. "Ahhhh"

    "No I mean you really do, it''s shinning all over you and I''m jealous" she pouted in jest

    "Yue Yan" he tried again but she continued as if he hadn''t said a word

    "Does she know about us?" Yue Yan queried softly.

    "Everything," he answered solemnly, he had no secrets from his wife.

    "And she still wants me to live in your house?" The question was delivered with a quizzical smile that had him chuckling Yan Mei affected everyone in much the same way, a deep sense of puzzlement that grew into something unbreakableter.

    "She suggested it"

    "Damn she''s a better woman than I am, you seriously lucked out" Yue Yan pointed out, discreetly shifting the tray off herps and pushing it to the foot of the bed, the contents otherwise untouched.

    "Every day I wake up and I see my life, I cannot believe it sometimes" Lei Zhao replied with a rueful smile, unable to curb the undertones of love in his voice when he spoke about his wife.

    "For that reason alone, she''s going to be my best friend." She replied with a smile up at him, her eyes shining with some curious quality.

    "Yan Mei is actuallypletely lovable on her own and I''m sure she would love a sister of her own" Lei Zhaomented wryly with a satisfied smile as he handed off thest point.

    "Ooooh, I''ve never had a sister, now I have one,! I''m sold, get me out of here!" She mock ordered with a gleam in her eyes. The both of them burst intoughter, a bittersweet sound that held old and new memories.

 Chapter 339 Sisters

    <h4>Chapter 339 Sisters</h4>

    Yan Mei waited just inside the door; her ears pitched for the sound of a homing. Her hands fluttered in anxiety as she brushed it down her pantsuit, sweeping away non-existent lint.

    One would think she didn''t have anything to worry about but the fact remained that the situation was too close to the bone for her.

    Once upon a time she had lost, alone and dead inside; she idly wondered how her life would have changed if there had been someone to pick her up if there had been someone who had brought her ''home''. She wondered how she would have turned out if she hadn''t had to pick up the pieces of her life on her own.

    She knows someone would call her stupid for epting her husband ex into her home but she had her reasons. For some reason, she saw herself in the girl''s shoes and she knew how much Yue Yan means to her husband.

    Also, even though she doesn''t know if Yue Yan will be a friend or foe. She wanted to keep her close. Keep your friends close but your enemy closer they say. Hopefully, Yue Yan will not disappoint her goodwill.

    The low-throated roar of the Jaguar filtered through her senses and she quickly utched the door, absentmindedly noticing the flurry of motion from the nurse and the housekeeper around her.

    The first sight to greet her sense was the vision of her husband exiting the car, his face twisted in worry before he ran to the other side to aid the person seated beside him. Before he got there, the nurse and housekeeper had arrived, easing the girl to the ground and carefully aiding her to stand.

    "I''m not an invalid" was the cutting response to their gestures but even from there, Yan Mei could see that her expression was more of frustration than anger. She could sympathize with that, being sick was stressful.

    The girl lifted her head and caught sight of Yan Mei for the first time me after a long sweeping gaze, smiled brightly at her, at this point Yan Mei was almost to the car, within talking distance.

    "I guess you''re the one who took enough pity on this guy and married him" the stranger gestured with her chin at Lei Zhao who was hovering.

    Yan Mei couldn''t stop the smile that thement brought to her face not when she was seeing Lei Zhao in full mother-hen mode.

    "I object" Lei Zhao tensed, shifted back in an exaggerated motion, and sniffed in self-righteous anger.

    "Shush" the girl merely rolled her eyes at his antics before smiling up at Layne

    Yan Mei was happy at the camaraderie between the two of them, happier still that it included her "I think we both pitied each other" she offered as apromise

    "Keep telling yourself that," the girl retorted with a smile that dimmed slightly "thank you for inviting me to your home"

    "Please, it''s was not-" she never finished her sentence

    "No, it''s everything" her guest replied with a determined gaze.

    "Then I''m d, where are manners, please let''s get inside the house," Yan Mei replied ushering them through the door.

    A few minutester found all of them situatedfortably in the cozy living room with a drink, Yue Yan as she had introduced herself was demolishing a strawberry smoothie and crisp wafers with rabid hunger.

    "Hospital food is the pits" Yan Meimented, eyeing the methodological demolition of delicious stacks of wafers.

    Yue Yanughed as she slurped down the rich smoothie "That''s the reason he convinced me with, not that he had much arguing to do, I wouldn''t feed a dog that slop."

    Yan Meiughed before she replied "They im it''s healthy," unable to keep the disgust out of her voice

    "Not for my mind it isn''t" Yue Yan insisted impishly and the three of themughed, then subsided into afortable long pause in which everyone focused on their meals or drinks in the case of Lei Zhao and Yan Mei.

    She finally cleared her throat with her solemn words "I want you to know that you can stay here for as long as you want, I know how it is to get a jarring new lease on life."

    The words held more than their meaning, across from her Lei Zhao reached and caught her hands, squeezing them softly tofort her and she squeezed right back.

    Yue Yan smiled at the gesture that passed between the two of them but it was a rueful smile that said her mind was a million miles away in dark waters "I still can''t get used to it, the amnesia is not helping"

    "Oh my God" Yan Mei couldn''t stop the gasp that spilled from her

    "I''m still alive" Yue Yan replied, but her smile was bitter

    "I''m sorry for ruining the moment." Yan Mei scrambled to apologize but she waved it off.

    "No, I''m just happy to be here, and that brings me to the second promise Lei Zhao made to change my mind"

    "Anything" was the reply

    "Careful what you wish for," Yue Yan warned with a softugh before getting serious, her eyes riveted on hers, "he promised me I would be getting a cool sister to hang out with"

    Yan Mei smiled, she couldn''t quite help it, tired, faded, and exhausted, Yue Yan looked so brave and hopeful with those words that she found that there was only one response to it "I guess you better rest and get your strength up sis, I''m a very demanding sister and I''m sure you have a million things to see"

    Yue Yan smiled, a huge expression that exposed her teeth and drew attention to the faint glimmers of tears in her eyes "thank you so much Yan Mei , I''ll be the best sister ever"

    An hourter when Yue Yan was nestledfortably in bed, while she and Lei Zhao were ensconced in his study, sitting in the loveseat in each other''s arms she heard the words again "thank you so much, Yan Mei"

    "Don''t, don''t thank me, love, I''m only being a decent human being." She murmured, enjoying her closeness and warmth.

    "There are so many reasons for you not to entertain the thought and you would be perfectly within your own rights" he replied, his voice raw with a curious quality.

    "I know who she is to you" she replied as if that was all that mattered

    "An ex-girlfriend" he replied acidly, it wasn''t exactly true but that was splitting hairs.

    "A good friend, a tie with the past, and even if she wasn''t, I couldn''t have done anything else than what I did" she retorted, chasing thest of the tenseness away.

    "You''re a better person than I, I don''t think I would have been that kind to your ex-husband." He confessed, his voice a whisper between the two of them

    She shook her head, rustling her cheeks against the fabric of his chest before she nestled back into his embrace "I can''t ask that of you"

    He kissed her forehead "you are perfection"

    "Besides I can''t hate her for the crime of loving you, I did exactly the same thing. Plus, I can just tell we''re going to be close friends and that''s everything in my books" she pointed out easily.

    "I don''t deserve you" he countered,

    "You do and I love you"

    "I love you too!" his voice vehement with conviction

 Chapter 340 Happy

    <h4>Chapter 340 Happy</h4>

    Dinner was a light affair, Yan Mei smiled across the table at her husband. Gone was the tense stranger from yesterday; reced by the more familiar figure of her easy-going lover but even that was a deceiving mien.

    He was a billionaire real estate mogul who was at home in a suit in just the same way he was at home in faded jeans and a band print shirt. All his facets made her fall in love with him even more.

    "You''re looking good husband" she called across the dinner table, battling with the beginnings of desire.

    Lei Zhao smirked, the only indication that he had heard her before he plucked a ss of wine and downed half the contents. Every movement was deliberate and with a curious grace that was aimed at enticing, across the table he could feel her gaze. When he finally looked up to meet it, he saw in her eyes, a hunger that needed more than a meal.

    "You''re looking good wife" he finally countered, enjoying the blush that suffused her face but loved that she didn''t drop her eyes either.

    Then he waited for her to make the next move, the glint in her eyes promised they were going to miss the rest of the meal and probably incur the wrath of his temperamental chef.

    But he was a man who was in love with his wife and in that moment, he wanted nothing more than to give in to the smoldering desire between the two of them.

    Across the table, Yan Mei read his intentions but dropped her eyes anyway and picked up her cutlery, her actions greeted by a soft chuckle. She raised her gaze to eye the man seated across from her, a promise in her gaze.

    Not now but soon.....very soon.

    Lei Zhao nodded.

    Lei Zhao didn''t think he''d ever get tired of the sound of her voice, the elegant motions, or learning every detail of her body and how he could make her shatter in pleasure. For what seemed like hours they sat at the dining table, toying with dinner while chasing down tiny bites down with delicious wine.

    By the time they had abandoned the illusion of eating, Yan Mei was tipsy, at least enough to openly devour him with her eyes across the table, at that point though he admitted he was doing some serious looking of his own.

    "I think I''m a little intoxicated," she said in a low voice, but her eyes showed she was drunk on more than wine. When Lei Zhao came to stand next to her he saw that her body hummed with barely suppressed desire.

    The first touch of his skin slithered between the two of them and she slid to her feet in a single move, pushing the chair back as she moved closer into his arms.

    Their kiss was a slow sweet seduction that quickly segued into something stronger and darker, the passion rising in a slow boil before yanking the both of them into the maelstrom.

    They unanimously decided to skip dessert as he picked her up and carried her into the bedroom, urgency firing his blood. The entrance to their room was more than a few feet away from the dining room but Lei Zhao didn''t feel the distance as he climbed the stairs and walked through the open door into the hallway leading to their bedroom and slid open one of the doors.

    He deposited her gently on the bed, on top of the covers, slowly releasing her until her head touched the pillow. He stood for a moment watching her, his gaze promising things that drove her body to shudder. She was looking right at him too, lovingly tenderly and with a hint of challenge.

    His lips quirked he was going to answer that but first, he wanted tomit the image of her in this very moment into his memory. Her hair was slipping out of the loose bun she''d haphazardly put it in earlier, the soft waves framing her face, it brought to mind all the images of the time he had watched her sleep, her natural curls syed out over the pillows.

    He''d never thought of ears as being perfect but somehow hers were and they were not pierced. It was almost unheard of for the CEO of a jewelrypany not to wear so much of them but she kept it to a bare minimum.

    Her huge brown eyes were framed by long thick eyshes and a nose that was as perfect as her ear and the rest of her. Her mouth was full and lush, lips that were meant to be kissed, to be tasted and relished, and he leaned down to do just that, pouring all his passion and promise into one kiss.

    His eyes went down the line of her throat and then lower until he got to the swell of her breast. She''d unbuttoned the top two buttons earlier and his hands ached to unbutton the line running the length of the dress until shey before him naked.

    She read the desire in his eyes clearly, her hands moving to the buttons of her dress to undo one more before she whipped the offending material over her head.

    Her hands moved to her bra but he trapped them, raising the both of them above her head where he trapped them while his other hand moved to explore the rest of her.

    Anticipation and more than a little lust made him shaky as his hand hovered inches above the uncovered flesh. Biting his bottom lip, he lowered his hand until it rested just at the curve of her hips, tracing it until his hands ghosted down her skin as it ran down the length of her thighs. He didn''t know if the roughness of his hands made her skin seem that much softer or if she did feel like satin.

    Impatient, she freed her hands from his and leaned up, into his kiss, above her, he rolled his hips and she broke away from the kiss to take in a deep breath, her eyes clouding in passion. His lips left her mouth and ran down her throat leaving her panting and even more frantic

 Chapter 341 Her Story

    <h4>Chapter 341 Her Story</h4>

    "Take it off, take it all off" she ordered and he climbed off the bed to make short work of his clothing before returning to her.

    He climbed back into the bed and she spread her legs, biting her lips in obvious anticipation. He liked that look on her "touch me"

    Her hands twined around him almost instantly, her fingers digging into his hair as she tugged him closer.

    Quickly he removed her bra and panties until they were skin to skin. He looked at her, the beautiful woman in his bed and he said as much, "beautiful" ovee with a need to worship every inch of skin.

    She was having none of that her voice made huskier by desire shot to every part of him and shattered his control "please Lei Zhao, I need you inside now please, she begged.

    But he wasn''t done with her, not yet. He kissed her nipples and trailed down. Her back arched when the kisses reached between her spread legs, where he ced one across his shoulder, the other he held open as he licked her sex with his ttened tongue, his fingers sliding deep to tease her.

    She was wet for him, her body killed every motion of his hand as his finger massaged her pussy, as her juices flowed freely.

    Just when she was on the brink of an orgasm he stopped and crawled back up her body, kissing away the soft whimpers that issued from her lips. He kissed her deep and hard before breaking away from her lips and kissing her chin and neck, his lips ghosting over her corbone as he entered her and she cried out at the invasion.

    She lifted her hips to meet his next stroke that buried his erection as deep in her body and the two of them began to move together. A slow rocking, each push and pull unhurried, every stroke as he surged into her and she tightened around him.

    Their movements grew increasingly frenzied until every thrust drew a vocal reaction of pure desire that spurred him on from her. Lei Zhao held the top of his body from hers on his elbows but the weight of him below the waist pinned her to the bed. His breaths were heated pants as he brought them closer to an orgasm, he trembled at the edge trying to draw out the pleasure but her body tightened around him until he felt like his head would explode.

    He thrust into her body two more times and he shattered, hearing her cries as her body fisted around him, catapulting the both of them into unconsciousness.

    *******

    Yan Mei woke up, something strange thrusting her up from a blissful sleep. She turnedid in the bed, wondering what had happened to tug her senses awake.

    The murmur seemed toe from the darkness that surrounded the room "I love you, Wifey"

    Yan Mei didn''t reply even as she noted that he must have said it many times before, his voice bringing her to wakefulness. She kissed him on his chest, just above his beating heart, and twinned her legs around him.

    She absently noted that they were now under the covers while wondering how long he had been awake. She yawned and received a kiss on the forehead before he settled back into his embrace, too sated to keep her eyes open, she slept.

    When she woke up again, she was alone and his spot in the bed was stone cold. A first into the rest of the house proved he was long gone, in the kitchen she discovered Yue Yan attacking a stack of pancakes with gusto.

    The past few days had been eventful to say the very least, sure she had her misgivings about her new house guest and had chosen to keep a respectable distillery away but she had encountered her in the living room one of those days after she returned from work and they had taken the time to truly talk with each other.

    Sure, she felt the meeting had been orchestrated, something about the way she had sat there had informed Yue Yan that she had been sitting there for a long time waiting for her toe home.

    Even as they passed pleasantries between the two of them Yan Mei wondered if it was absolutely necessary for the two of them to be friends. The house was big enough that the two of them didn''t have to meet if they didn''t want to, they were polite with each other and she felt that a bit of space between them despite her former rtionship with her husband was not remiss but her house guest had dogged attempted to blur those lines.

    Yue Yan had greeted her, her voice chipper but with an undertone of exhaustion. However, there was no missing the determined look in her eyes.

    Yan Mei remembered being taken aback with the force of that look, her own exhaustion making her willing to get it over with instead of deferring it forter.

    "I''m sorry to disturb you but we need to talk." The request was timid but determined.

    Yan Mei had acquiesced easily, dumping her bag and keys on the cab table just inside the door and went to sit beside her house guest.

    Her eyes had trailed he face again noting the pallor, the fine tremor that she struggled to control and the faint look of hurt. Yan Mei had seen that look and she couldn''t help it that her heart stuttered.

    Yue Yan had looked like she wished she was anywhere but in that living room and she couldn''t help but sympathize with her in that moment. She''d seated across from her and patiently waited for the girl to start.

    After a moment that almost stretched to breaking point Yue Yan said, "I''m sorry for all of this. I wish we had met in a much better situation" gesturing vaguely at the both of them. The words she had left unspoken was that she wished she wasn''t so weak, so dependent on her good will.

    Yan Mei had nodded curtly, but refrained from replying. There were no right words that would be well received just yet, not from either perspective.

    "I''m a lucky girl to have a friend like Lei Zhao, and he''s been a great friend since forever. Did he tell you about what he did for me?" Yue Yan had asked softly.

 Chapter 342 Her story(2)

    <h4>Chapter 342 Her story(2)</h4>

    "I''m a lucky girl to have a friend like Lei Zhao, and he''s been a great friend since forever. Did he tell you about what he did for me?" Yue Yan had asked softly.

    Yan Mei nodded again before she replied "Not much, I got the impression that it''s not truly his story to tell"

    It was Yue Yan''s turn to nod curtly, her eyes fixed on everything in the room except her. "Yes," she answered finally, "he''s kind like that but it''s more than that, what Lei Zhao did for me was save me."

    Yan Mei had waited patiently; she sensed a story and with the way her house-guest had refused to meet her eyes she knew it was no ordinary story. The show of vulnerability touched her and Yan Mei couldn''t help the strong wave of sympathy that filled her at the lost look. At longst, her patience was rewarded

    "I was raised in an orphanage, somehow I never got into the foster system and from the stories I''ve heard I believe I have much to be thankful for. But that''s the power of hindsight talking, as a child it hurt me with every couple that passed me by and adopted another child. I wanted a family with a desire that was almost tangible and I never got one so I channeled all that need into my education and it was rewarded"

    Yue Yan recounted her history in a nd voice as if she was trying to actively distance herself from the emotions it evoked in her, judging by the stark look in her eyes, it wasn''t exactly working.

    Yan Mei herself had felt her throat swell with emotion, but she swallowed any overt show of emotion and kept quiet.

    "I got a schrship to college, not just any college, an Ivy league college all expenses paid and I thought life was finally being good being but despite my tough upbringing and the offhand way we were raised at the orphanage I was not prepared for the casual and determined hatred I received the hands of the so called elite because I didn''t belong in their world" Yue Yan had spat the same entire sentence with uncharacteristic vitriol.

    Yan Mei couldn''t help nodding in silent agreement, she herself had suffered bitterly in the hands of the upper ss who wanted to destroy her for the crime of not being from a moneyed family.

    "I understand what you went through. They im to be better than others but they''re only vicious animals guarding what they think belongs to them from an intruder in their circles. In fact, calling them animals is an insult to animals actually" she finally replied, her first words since she sat down but it was clear she was not speaking out of empty sympathy but some private grief.

    At those words Yue Yan had turned to look at her, revealing eyes that were studded with tears "I was on the verge of dropping out or killing myself when Lei Zhao stepped in, he literally has me a stamp of approval and shielded me from the worst of it"

    "Yes, he can be kind like that" Yan Mei echoed her earlier words.

    Yue Yan smiled, a small sad smile but soldiered on with her story, "at that point in time it was everything to me that someone stood up for me. He proposed we fake a rtionship. After all, he was one of the richest people in the school so no-one would publicly bully his girlfriend. And he said something about keeping the leeches away. I won''t lie and say I didn''t fall in love with him, I did but I understood the boundaries and stayed inside them but deep inside of my heart he became my family."

    That is why I am worried...." Yue Yan ventured but Yan Mei never allowed her to finish the words.

    "I''m not going to kick you out the moment you get better Yue Yan, give Lei Zhao the credit of having the good taste to marry a wife unlike all those people you met in college." Her words were a reprimand but her tone was lighter, teasing, Yue Yan smiled in response

    "No," she however insisted, "the thing is that, he''s my family and I can''t bear for you to think I have ulterior motives towards your husband, I don''t want you to keep avoiding me because you''re like family to me too"

    "You''re always wee here Yue Yan , I promise you that" she had vowed, her words were heavy between the two of them, her house-guest had smiled at that, at ease and satisfied. But since then their paths had not crossed against until this morning.

    Yan Mei shook herself out of the reverie, sending short waves in response to the greetings of the other two upants of the room before she focused solely on breakfast.

    Taking her own stack of pancake dripping with honey and blueberries from the chef she sat across from her house guest at the breakfast table but she didn''t say a word until she had downed her first gulp of piping hot coffee, liberallyced with cream and sugar.

    Her almost moan of enjoyment drove a peal ofughter out of her breakfast partner. Yan Mei reced her huge mug on the table with a slight blush at her tant appreciation of coffee beans in front of a near stranger.

    "Morning Yue Yan , sorry for being a coffee addict loudly"

    "I don''t even me you, I had my very first taste and I felt heaven, I think I had a more embarrassing reaction than you did" Yue Yan confessed

    "I doubt it, how was your night?" she replied trying to move to a less embarrassing topic

    "It''s the best one yet" her guest responded before inhaling a forkful of pancakes just dripping with honey.

    "I''m d that you''refortable in your room" Yan Mei ventured before she paid attention to her own te. The first bite was perfect and seemed to be made equal amounts of crisp pancakes that somehow manage to melt on her tongue; this time she remembered to be less vocal about her enjoyment.

    "The bed is like butter; I just sink in and it swallows me whole. So off to work this morning?" Yue Yan asked conversationally as she sipped on her own coffee

 Chapter 343 The accident

    <h4>Chapter 343 The ident</h4>

    "Yeah, lots of things to do" Yan Mei answered before stuffing her face

    "I understand, I''ve put you out enough" the calm reply however had her reaching for her coffee cup to push it down quickly

    "No not really," she protested hastily before adding "just a suppliers meetinging up"

    "Where do you work at?"

    "I actually own it. I''m the CEO of SHIMMERS" Yue Yan directed a confused gaze at her and she quickly exined "it''s a jewelrypany"

    "No!" An outburst of pure delight that had her smiling

    "Yes!" She replied the mood infectious

    "This keeps getting better, I love pieces of jewelry" Yue Yan announced in pure glee.

    "They would look stunning on you," Yan Mei observed, taking more than a cursory look at her guest. She noted that she looked better than the day before, her wan expression gone, the only thing that remained of her ordeal was the lost look of someone who struggled internally when she thought no one was looking.

    The expression tore at her heart and she didn''t even know when she made the decision to extend the invitation "why don''t youe by for a visit sometime and browse?"

    She didn''t give the invitation lightly; many people saw her business as a merely sessful venture and nothing could be further from the truth, herpany was a testament to her resilience, her survival and making it big all by herself. It was also a talisman she used to ward herself, sure Lei Zhao loved her and made her happy but when the dark thoughts came, she held up her business as a shining example of being strong, capable and powerful.

    She knew how it felt to be stripped down to the basics, to be reduced to a weak creature reacting viscerally to what life threw at her. So, she wanted to share that part of her with the lost waif perched at the edge of the breakfast table.

    "You don''t know the monster you''re going to create with that show and tell stunt so let me just stop you there," Yue Yan warned solemnly but there was no missing the look of excitement in her eyes, she fairly buzzed with the anticipatory energy.

    "No seriously" Yan Mei countered

    Yue Yan rolled her eyes at this point "I''m the one who is serious, how do you think I''ll be able to walk away from anything sparkly and beautiful."

    The other two upants of the roomughed at the open greed on Yue Yan''s face, little did they know it was not feigned at all, that it was much darker.

    "I think I''ll pass and find something else to do in the time being." A small sentence filled to the brim with vulnerability.

    "Three years is a long time" Yan Mei offered; she couldn''t even begin to fathom the effect of losing three years could have on the human mind.

    "And a lot of new things to see right!" Yue Yan answered, her face lighting up with new cheer

    "As long as you''re taking it easy"

    "Who me? All I do is sleep." She smirked

    "You''ll miss it soon" Yan Mei replied I''m the same tone

    "I can''t wait."

    The conversation continued in light banter until she left to go prepare for work.

    Yan Mei dressed up in another practical pantsuit with a hint of seductive ir as while her thoughts centered on her house-guest, of course, she had her misgiving when she heard the story from Lei Zhao but only for a second.

    It had triggered a remembrance of her former plight and all of a sudden, she was tripping over her own feet to make things better for the poor girl.

    Of course, the doubts still came but every encounter with the lost wait trying so terribly to be brave made her heart ache. She had gone in trying to help her husband, trying to ease the pain of another human being, now she was doing it for no reason other than for the fact that she rather liked the girl.

    As shepleted her ensemble, Yan Mei wondered how she was going to keep this girl in her life. Sure, it was too early to be making such ns but she felt a kinship with the girl who hadughed uproariously at her coffee addict ways.

    And when she did anything, she was all in so why not now? By the time she had added the finishing touches to her attire and was heading out of the room, she had a tentative n that she knew would work.

    When she walked back into the kitchen, it was bustling. Yue Yan still sat in her spot but she had been joined by the live-in nurse, the housekeeper who was bustling around, between the four of them, therge space was considerably smaller.

    She headed straight for Yue Yan who wasughing with her nurse. It happened so fast, one moment the chef had shed her a small smile while he picked off a pot of boiling water off the stovetop and headed for the sink, which was in her direction; in the next second he was falling and a wave of scalding water was headed straight for her.

    She froze in shock, her limbs rooted to the tile while watching the steaming ssh headed for her face, she heard someone scream, it could have been more than one person but she was not paying anything but her impending doom.

    Then suddenly Yue Yan was there, tray in hand diverting the flow of that water so that it sshed in multiple harmless directions, most of it streaming to the tiled floor

    She was so shaken she didn''t even register the little burns and small dots of hot water passed through the fabric of her suit trousers and scalded the skin lightly.

    "Jesus Christ!" The sudden shout from her housekeeper jolted the entire upants of the room.

    "Are you alright? Are you okay?" I

 Chapter 344 Her motive

    <h4>Chapter 344 Her motive</h4>

    "Are you alright? Are you okay" Yan Mei asked, her eyes wide and herplexion extremely pale, Yan Mei knew without looking that she looked just about the same as the girl standing in front of her in a superhero pose with a tray in hand.

    "I''m so sorry miss, I don''t know what came over me," the beleaguered chef asked as he got to his feet unscathed

    "It was an ident" she responded, piping up to quell the guilt she heard in his voice

    The nurse responded practically by grabbing a mop that was at the far corner of the kitchen and started moping the hot spill.

    Yue Yan dropped the tray in her hand with a rattle on the breakfast table and walked to meet her, concern zing in her eyes. "Are you okay Yan Mei? Did any of that water touch you? I hope I was fast enough" a vulnerability ringing in her voice.

    Yan Mei caught her hand and quickly squeezed it to reassure her "you were perfect sis"

    "Now you''re going to make me cry" Yue Yan warned, her eyes glittered with barely concealed tears

    "Please don''t, if you do, I''ll join you, I''m still a bit shaken and it would take little to set me off" it was a shameless plea

    "I''m just happy that you are okay." At that deration, Yan Mei pulled her into a hug, an action that surprised her too. Yue Yan remained tense in her embrace for a few seconds before rxing and putting her hands around her too.

    She wasn''t the type to go for physical contact with someone she just met merely a day ago but here she was, pleasantly surprised.

    ******

    Pleading exhaustion from over-excitement, Yue Yan locked herself inside the room after promising to spend the day sleeping. In the safety of her room, she quickly lost the shocked demeanor recing it with a scious smirk.

    It was almost too easy, it didn''t help that everyone was just full of pity for her, poor her.

    The rtionship was budding almost without her doing much about it, barely a thing, poor girl was too eager for love, desperate for it and she knew exactly how to twist such a need to her own purposes.

    Tripping the chef had been a spur of the moment thing, she had discreetly flicked a hand to send the man flying while pretending all the while to be deep in conversation with that infernal overbearing live-in nurse.

    The lot of them had started screaming off their heads and she couldn''t help but enjoy it. The fear, the chaos, the resignation to pain and the desperation to do anything to avert what was currently happening.

    In that moment she knew that any of those people there with them would have sold their soul to stop their beloved mistress from being doused by boiling water.

    In the ruckus, no one had noticed her wide smile or the speed in which she had lifted up the tray and bashed the water aside. They were blinded by relief, the poor chef scrambling to apologize, the rest of the room trying tofort Yan Mei.

    Poor Yan Mei, dear darling Yan Mei. She had acted out a touchy scene afterwards, receiving a hug in return. Even as her hands encircled the woman, she wondered how easy it was for her to snap her neck and be done with it.

    But that would be too easy, too many witnesses, too many loose ends to tie up. But the main problem was that Yan Mei did not deserve easy.

    What she deserved was a measured and relentless assault on every area of her life that culminated in a painful and tortured death.

    The entire kitchen had breathed a sigh of relief at the averted crisis, no one asked why the chef was boiling arge pot of water that he was only going to pour away.

    She hadpletely counted on Yan Meiing back to say goodbye, seemed like the type to be caught up in such mundane e pleasantries and see how beautifully that had worked out.

    She moved to the mirror, said the spell and watched that light bathed figure still in position, stationary, asleep. This time her smile was mocking, satisfied.

    This was just too easy.

    ******

    That night after another episode of intense lovemaking, Yan Mei curled against her husband and told him all about the morning events and how Yue Yan had saved her.

    "She''s like a guardian angel of a sort, suddenly there and batting all that water away" Yan Mei narrated the story with no little enthusiasm.

    Lei Zhao had tensed as she recounted her encounter but slowly rxed enough to join in her touch of whimsy "I brought you a fairy godmother" his voice carefully nk.

    Without being told, she knew he was seeing the events in his mind''s eye and wondering how he could avoid them in the future. Her dear overprotective man, always on the lookout for her "You have the best luck" she replied, drawing him out of those thoughts

    "I think this is all you" he murmured, his hands tightened around her as he hauled her closer, the sheet she had thrown over herself dropping lower until it barely skimmed the swells of her breasts

    "I wonder how she would feel about staying," she asked. Of course, she had a n, she just wanted to know if he was up for it and if he had one of his own, experience had taught her that her husband always had a n.

    "You would do this for me?" He queried softly, only his tense body told her that her words had been a shock to him

    Yan Mei chuckled tiredly "I think this one is for her and if I''m more truthful, for me. I''m growing seriously attached to her"

    "She was always like a sister to me" he replied absently and she couldn''t quite stop herself from scoffing.

    "A sister you dated" she pointed out, without a hint of censure

    "Actually, that''s not the truth." This time she could hear the smirk in his voice

    Yan Mei raised her head and pursed her lips at her husband, one arched eyebrow urged him on his narrative. She knew the truth; Yue Yan had confessed to her feeling absolutely guilty and trying to point out that she was not interested in hurting their marriage.

    Yan Mei had warmed to her after the confession,pletely surprised by her candor and pleased that she stated she had no negative intentions. She didn''t know how to tell the poor girl that there was no need for it, she was entirely too sure of her husband''s love for her but she appreciated the trust from the both of them. That they told her the truth about something in the past made her ept it even easier.

    A/N: Okay, I know I said that I''m ending the book. Yes I am. The fact that I have introduced a new character doesn''t mean I''m going to be stretching the book. Will end it then release a new book somewhere in May, so please stay tuned!

 Chapter 345 A friendâ€™s concern

    <h4>Chapter 345 A friend¡¯s concern</h4>

    "She is an orphan, raised in an orphanage but we met at school. She was a schrship student, some rich people charity like that and because she was not only smart and beautiful but poor, it made her the target of all the bullies in school" he exined

    "That''s downright evil" she replied

    He continued easily, his tone bitterly jaded "Humans for you, so I decided to protect her but the fastest way was to fake date and here we are."

    "You''re a good man, my love, I wish I knew you even then" she needed to say it, she wanted to do more, to wipe his worries away forever but she settled for smoothing the furrowed lines on his forehead.

    "I think I''m better for having you now." He replied, his eyes filled with emotions that squeezed her heart and made it impossible for her to speak without losing control of the tears lurking in her eyes.

    She pressed a kiss to his lips in response before scooting back into the crook of his arms.

    "She fought the idea for the longest time, charity gets her in a mood" he continued after she settled into him

    "I already have a n, I''m going to offer her a job and who knows, she just might forget about leaving" her voice was hopeful, but Yan Mei had seen the streak of independence and strength in her house guest so she knew her ns were shaky at best

    "She used to work with me" he offered

    "That''s even better" the idea made her perk up, it had more merit than anything she was nning anyways

    "Yes, I''m going to approach her on getting her job back" Lei Zhao decided,

    "I''m d," she murmured, her voice sleep roughened

    Lei Zhao hauled her even closer, pressed a kiss to her forehead, and said "sleep, tomorrow is going to be here soon" the soothing words filled her withnguid ease and in a matter of minutes, she was fast asleep.

    No matter how she had casually brushed the event off or how she had told the story in a jocr manner to her husband, Yan Mei still battled a lot of anxiety about the events in the kitchen.

    Enough to have her be a little hesitant to just walk into the kitchen without peeking at the activities ongoing, enough to pick the side of the breakfast table away from the chef.

    It may seem silly, in fact, it seemed silly to her but every time she closed her eyes, she couldn''t help seeing the hot wave of water heading straight for her face.

    What made it even more sinister was that her nightmare was taking on the same cast, some time during the night, the usual dream of the speeding car that had hit her turned into a huge wave ofva temperature water that was aiming straight for her.

    The water felt malevolent, almost alive and it telegraphed its intent so clearly that she couldn''t help the fear that had frozen her screams in her throat.

    The water had arced over her, and sshed down behind her, until she was stuck inside an ever-diminishing pocket of air, just waiting to die. Before she had woken up abruptly, her fear was bleeding out of her usual tight control.

    She hated how it had made her helpless, broken her down to that weak person she was in the beginning. She had fought to keep her reactions under control, to wrest control out of the hands of the dreams that tormented her nightly.

    Too bad her dreams only mirrored her reality, a reality she had suffered through not long ago. And when they first got married, she had woken Lei Zhao up, sometimes several times in one night screaming her head off, unable to stop her body from shaking with remembered pain.

    She had learned to control it, to calm the wild fear causing her heart to race uncontrobly, to tame the screams that boiled up in her throat.

    Thankfully Lei Zhao had left for work and had missed this particr episode.

    *******

    Yan Mei got out of her seat and walked to the bank of windows that showed her an enviable view of the city. In her line of sight, the building progressed carefully all the way from the dockside, bearing witness to the several financial strata found in this city alone.

    This view had sold her, made her acquire this building for her rapidly growingpany and ordinary she was willing to give herself to the view, watching people and cars like overactive ants scrambling around so far away and thinking passing thoughts.

    The city wasid out for her viewing pleasure but it still held its mysteries, and sometimes she found herself wondering how her life would have turned out if she had missed out on the more traumatic aspects of it.

    Some days the possibilities crowded her mind as she tried to picture how she would have ended up if she had gone down another path. No matter how she viewed it, she couldn''t shake the belief that she was exactly where she needed to be. With the right person, at the right ce and time. It made it seem like her path was dated and therefore her pains and traumatic experiences had been important and therein lies the rub. But there was no denying that she was truly happy in her life now.

    She had been fascinated with the dockside crowd, there were little more than indistinct blurs in the distance but what her eyes didn''t see, her mind eagerly supplemented. Suffice it to say that the view was her number one motivation to donate to charities that were truly involved in poverty alleviation.

    Today, the view held nothing for her. She looked through the warm two-way ss and remembered the events of the past two days, her body shuddering involuntarily.

    Maybe she was just projecting but she was still shaken by it, that despite all the ways she had tried to make herself stronger over the years and move on from one traumatic experience that had led to another, it had taken a simple wave of hot water to undo all her illusions of strength.

    But that was not even the pressing issue, her best friend behind her, in a fit of fury that filled the room with strange tension.

 Chapter 346 A friendâ€™s concern

    <h4>Chapter 346 A friend''s concern</h4>

    Yan Mei turned from the view to look at her best friend perched elegantly on the sofa and watching her with an exasperated gaze. They had been discussing her house guest, Yue Yan.

    Su Bei had been very vocal about her disapproval but Yan Mei wasn''t budging an inch, at some point, it had be very personal for her to be the one to help Yan Yue, for reasons she wouldn''t even admit to herself out loud.

    They had nned to go out for lunch but talk of Yue Yan had created a tense atmosphere that fairly puzzled her, of course, she herself had taken time to warm up to the girl but this was something else.

    Su Bei was outrightly refusing to believe that she had done that, she had gone as far as telling her that she was being foolish but Yan Mei knew the words wereing from a ce of love. She just wished she could convey how important it was for her to be the one to house Yue Yan for now, yes those unsayable reasons that had little to do with Lei Zhao .

    Su Bei sighed, a gusty exhale that conveyed her exasperation clearly, from her stance in front of the window,y on couldn''t help the prod of guilt in her belly. "I wish you wouldn''t be so stubborn about this, I know your heart is in the right ce but a million and one things can go wrong." Su Bei offered diplomatically, they both knew what she was worried about.

    "I think you worry too much" Su Bei offered but from the look on her friend''s face, it was obvious the girl thought she was the one who wasn''t worried enough.

    She said so summarily with a soft scoff "You don''t worry enough"

    "There is nothing to worry about" and there wasn''t, everything was under control

    Su Bei sighed again, an action apanied by an indulgent sigh at her naive friend "You''re just lucky that Lei Zhao loved you to the point of distraction, that''s why you are so se about this"

    Yan Mei was not naive, life had dealt her a few choice blows for her to still be, in fact, her naivete had been stripped at an early age, intelligence was not much for fooling itself. She was well versed with the varieties of human nature but some things could not be disputed.

    Not the love between her and her husband, even now the thought of it brought a small smile to her face, a smile that irked Su Bei no doubt. "Lei Zhao isn''t even the issue here, he''s never going to be"

    "Lucky you" the words were delivered with a touch of acid and a hint of envy.

    "Neither is the girl," Yan Mei continued easily but Su Bei was having none of that.

    She growled a soft exmation that expressed her disgust at those words. In her eyes shone disbelief that people especially Yan Mei could even bring herself to believe that. "I''m tired of exining things to people who don''t listen."

    Yan Mei persisted "she''s just a girl who has lost 3 years of her life, you should have seen her the day they came back from the hospital"

    "They?" Su Bei baited with an arched eyebrow.

    Yan Mei waved her words away as inconsequential. "You know what I mean, she was so weak and trying to be so strong and brave about her life and situation"

    But Su was a self confirmed cynic who scoffed at the pictures she was trying to paint as she admitted her gem-littered nails. "I''m sure that appeals massively to you but that''s his ex-girlfriend for crying out loud."

    "Three years ago, the rtionship is long over." Yan Mei tried another tack.

    The logic was wasted on Su Bei who just eyed her before challenging, "Says whom?"

    "Both of them" Yan Mei offered smugly.

    "At least you had enough self-preservation instincts to ask" Su Bei countered, her eyes fixed on her nails

    "I didn''t ask, they volunteered," Yan Mei suddenly found herself on the defensive, wondering how she got there.

    "What am I going to do with you?" Su Bei wasn''t exactly talking to her now, the question was directed at the ceiling and presumably the entire universe except her.

    "You should have seen it, the pale girl waiting in my living room to exin how she''s not a threat at all. Su Bei, she thought I was going to throw her out the very moment she got better." She was emphatic with her exnation only because the incident had shaken her in a way and resonated so strongly with her

    "Well that''s different" was the wry butrgely unconvinced reply

    "I thought so too, what''s she going to do? Turn my housekeeper against me?" Yan Mei challenged with a small chuckle

    Su Bei who knew how attached Mrs. Williams was to her friendughed out loud at that. "Impossible!"Ever since Lei Zhao brought her home to take care of his wife since he was busy and Yan Mei couldn''t cook. The old woman totally treated Yan Mei as her own daughter.

    "You see? It might just be unorthodox but she needs it and I can support Lei Zhao through this" Yan Mei crowed triumphantly, her point finally made

    Her friend was not so easily convinced, Su Bei frowned, wrinkling her forehead before asking, "what if.."

    Yan Mei never allowed her to finish, that line of questioning opened up thoughts that got progressively worse by the minute, she knew this from a very recent and bitter experience. "Don''t"

    Su Bei was not so easily dissuaded "What if it was your ex was the one who...." She asked before trailing off, her eyes dancing around the room refusing to even look at her

    "Lei Zhao did something that night, he offered to do the same for me, it''s..." Yan Mei finally replied, her voice filled with just a bit of awe

    "Wow, you guys amaze me" Su Bei looked at her with awe and not a little shock in her room expression. She knew the whole story of what had happened in the past and she was obviously staggered.

 Chapter 347 Meeting her

    <h4>Chapter 347 Meeting her</h4>

    "So, you see? There''s no question of funny business, I mean have you seen Lei Zhao? You should meet the girl too, I invited her toe here" Yan Mei informed Su Bei, tongue in cheek

    "That''s fast "

    "She''s lost and alone and needs someone to rely on" Yan Mei replied, suddenly defensive

    "So that''s what it''s about huh?" Su Bei asked, her eyes narrowed but in them was apletely new understanding of the situation.

    It was Yan Mei''s turn to look away "I don''t know what you mean,"

    "She reminds you of yourself" it was not a question but an undeniable statement of fact.

    Yan Mei sighed, just a bit disgusted with herself and her vaciting emotions through the day. She had be very emotionalter and nausea she attributed to intense anxiety lurked just behind her throat, making her throw up at least once a day "I just wish, I wish that at that point in my life someone had stood by me no matter how unorthodox"

    Su Bei got up from her chair to move to her friend and hug her, over her shoulder she said "I''m standing by you now and supporting you through this"

    "Thanks"

    "That also means I would not hesitate to hit you with the truth and save you from yourself" she continued severely

    "Thanks again"

    "I''ve got your back Yan Mei and this girl better be good, she may have Lei Zhao tied down by friendship and you by sympathy but I''ve got nothing holding me back." Yan Mei nodded taking the good-natured threat for the show of love it truly was.

    "I appreciate that. So how are things with Leng Shao?" Yan Mei asked her friend.

    Su Bei blushed, "Good, he is..." She trailed off as she let out a dramatic sign.

    "Perfect. He is so kind, understanding, patience. I know he isn''t madly in love with me yet but that''s okay. I''m happy with him, he treats me well and that''s the most important thing."

    Yan Mei nodded in understanding and smiled gently at her friend. "I''m happy for you."

    "Me too. Wait you look different." Su Bei raised her brows at her with a mischievous glint in her eyes.

    "I do?" Yan Mei frowned as she held her cheeks.

    "Yes, you look like a pre-"

    The brief flurry of voices outside the door directed their attention away from the window as they both turned towards the door of her office. In two seconds, someone barged in with her personal assistant hot on their heels.

    She recognized Yue Yan but only after catching that familiar smile. The washed-out guest was far gone, in her ce was a prettier version, with perfect make-up, a new haircut, and a million-watt smile. All in all, she looked well-rested, perfectly recovered, and like a socialite. She evenpleted the look with the several shopping bags she carried the others her nurse carried behind her.

    One only had to look to see she was high on retail therapy. "Hey sis" she cooed; her voice impossibly silky

    Su Bei''s eyebrow arched until it met her hairline but Yan Mei just shook her head covertly at her

    "Hey sis," Yan Mei answered before turning to her new personal assistant "it''s alright, Su Bei, this is Yue Yan."

    "Oh" the harried employee nodded with a tentative smile

    Yan Mei continued as if she hadn''t said a word "She''s very wee, with or without an appointment"

    "Duly noted" The secretary''s nod was firm this time.

    "Are you hungry?" Yan Mei directed this question at the two women who were making themselvesfortable in one of the couches, strategically ced around the room.

    "Famished, being this hot burn a lot of calories" Yue Yan informed them safely and her nurse snorted, in the blink of an eye, the both of them wereughing uproariously.

    Yan Mei caught her assistant''s arched eyebrow above their head, and turned to catch Su Bei''s eye too but subtly shook her head at their obvious confusion. There was no way to exin Yue Yan , one had to just wait and take things as they happened.

    Yan Mei nodded at her assistant after getting everyone''s preference before walking over to sink into the couch across from Yue Yan to ask her how she had faced with shopping and re-entering into society.

    Immediately sheunched into her story, Yan Mei made a mental note to have her assistant cancel every other thing she might have to handle for the day. The glint in Yue Yan''s eyes promised she was going to be there for a while.

    Nothing like an exchange of fashion to get Su Bei''s attentionpletely, even though she can''t afford all those expensive stuffs she loved talking about it. Within minutes Yan Mei was ignored with only the live-in nurse for silentpany but that was okay.

    She caught the subtle nod Su Bei passed her after a while and allowed the tension to melt away from her shoulders. It wasn''t a stamp of approval, it simply said that she understood her reasons for doing the things she had done, to Yan Mei it meant everything.

    The group discussion moved from one trend to another trend and Yue Yan I got a huge education on all the fashion trends she had managed not to participate in for three years. Sometimes the conversation devolved into fashion codes that flew over her head but she found she didn''t mind, not when the alternative was allowing herself to be lost in her own thoughts, reliving a moment she didn''t even want to relive anymore or the alternative.

    Yan Mei was exhausted, the idea of lunch made her feel faintly nauseous and her body ached miserably but as she took another look around the four of them and found she actually like it, this camaraderie, the friendship, and easypanionship. She nodded, warmed by the thought before she jumped back into the conversation, a hrious retelling of the antics of a hairstylist with very particr and very loud ideas about fashion.

 Chapter 348 Her plan

    <h4>Chapter 348 Her n</h4>

    The darkness was sinuous, pulsing with movements and emotionspletely its own. The churning swirls moved in a pattern that defied logic, mesmerized the eyes, and was so unfathomable as to drive one mad.

    The same could be said for the creature that slipped out of it. Around the creature was a faint nimbus of nothingness, a small gap created by the actions of the darkness curling away from the creature.

    The creature was too beautiful to inspire such fear from an inanimate object but it did. The form was statuesque, lithe, and pleasing to all the senses. Every inch of skin was luminous with a skin-deep shimmer, every inch built to lure, to seduce, to befuddle the mind so much that it missed the form underneath.

    Underneath it was the form of a predator, the mannerisms of a killer''s sheathed innguid elegance. But many will die never seeing it, blinded by their senses even as they bled to death.

    The night was deste and empty, a scene that could be anywhere in the world and the creature wasfortable in it, resplendent in its natural habitat.

    A cruel smile crossed those beautiful features while the shimmer beneath the skin began to glow until it resulted in a blinding burst of light.

    When it was over, nothing remained except the darkness, back to its natural form.

    She traced the human skin with hands that were tipped by vivid pink ws that almost perfectly mimicked her true ws. Except they were softer and prettier and sadly shorter, nothing like the purposeful weapons she spotted in her true form.

    She inspected her mour, happier now that she didn''t have to look sickly or weak. Weakness disgusted her and she had tried so hard to not betray her innate nature, there had been barely perceptible slips but if the humans noted it, they had an exnation for themselves.

    She scoffed, a sound that was impossibly loud in the silence of her room, but no one was there to hear the sibnt sound filled to the brim with malevolence. No one to see the healthy pink skin fade off to be reced by something too beautifully bizarre to be conjured by the human mind. She was a terrible beauty and she knew it, her smile was filled with too much certainty, her eyes too jaded.

    Humans were detestable creatures even half-breeds but earth was such a fascinating, absolutely chock-full with demons who preferred it to the dark pits of hell; the humans were the main lure though.

    So much to indulge, so much to see, so many beautiful games to y. So many people to manipte, to toy with and eventually break in any manner she wished.

    She''d enjoyed fooling them so far, she had gotten so secure in her ns that she didn''t even bother looking in the mirror anymore to keep an eye on him.

    At first, she had been afraid that her proximity to pain would trigger him awake but nothing. After that stunt with the boiling water and setting a nightmare demon after her, she had hunkered down and waited for reactions to her attacks but nothing.

    It appeared that asleep, he wasn''t as aware as he always imed to be. That information curled her lips in unholy mirth. She had teased her boundaries and found them non-existent.

    She felt confident that she had all the time in the world, as soon as she got Lei Zhao out of the way she would easily take her revenge.

    Already she was cozying up to Yan Mei, working with him as his personal assistant at his request was something that she had not even foreseen.

    It made her ns even easier; she had already spelled his establishment to numb every emotion he had for his wife, but he had to keep working at it, their love was strong, impossibly so but hardly unbreakable. She was definitely going to shatter the bond thaty between the two of them, but that was only the top of the iceberg when it came to her ns for Yan Mei.

    Yue Yan looked into the mirror again, her eyes zing with a manic glint, as she made the decision to put things in y, just a little nudge in the right direction, pulling string before she could unveil her grand n.

    She snapped back her mour into ce before stepping away from in front of the mirror, hating every step she took away from the mirror. It might seem clich¨¦ but she was a demoness and took great pride in herself. Every time she hid her true self away, she balked at having to assume this weak mien and hide her true self away.

    "Soon" she promised herself softly before she walked to her closet and picked something new, something appropriate for her ns.

    She dressed carefully her hand lingering on the material, her eyes glinting with greed. This was what she deserved, a life that was meant to be hers; having all her desires met and being worshipped, this was her true fate.

    Yue Yan moved back to the vanity and quickly applied make-up, she''d quickly learned to mimic her true coloring in this human skin and the effect was startling perfect.

    She took a moment to caress her reflection with her eyes; it could neverpare to her in full glory but it would did.

    She finished dressing up and exited the room, as much as she loved being waited on, it was time to sit the live-in nurse, it was time to advance her ns.

    It was time to take action. She was going to enjoy this immensely.

    *************

    **********

    Anxiety was a hell of a drug and for a man who prided himself on being on top of everything in his life. But a good part of that anxiety had died down thanks to his wife.

    Lei Zhao smiled, a look his driver caught in the mirror on their way to work. It was the look of a man perfectly satisfied with his life currently and please with the direction it was taking.

    Since he had found out that Yue Yan had survived the ident and had been in aa for three whole years, his mind had him into a panicked race to do right by her.

    The panic had been so potent that even a reminder of his brother''s passing hadn''t been as painful as he thought he would be. Life really was for the living he mused; his mind stuck on reminiscing about the distant past.

 Chapter 349 A motherâ€™s concern

    <h4>Chapter 349 A mother''s concern</h4>

    Life was indeed for the living and he had built something beautiful of it, surrounding himself with not just people but ones who were loyal, and became a part of his family. He admitted he had filled the hole in his life that his brother left behind by trying to be a big brother to everyone working for him but even so a part of him loved it, thrived on it. It didn''t hurt that his family remained closely knit and had grieved together.

    Although his parents were still in his life, living a quieter life on their own and asionally making demands for grandchildren, they remained outside of the business, but he was not surprised that they were waiting for him in the office, he even knew what it was about.

    The car coasted to a stop at his spot in the underground parking lot and Lei Zhao exited the car without waiting for the driver to open the door. He headed straight for the private elevator, exchanging greetings with everyone on the way.

    His secretary was waiting at the other side of the elevator ride with his schedule for the day and the information that his parents were waiting for him. After giving instructions to put his palms for the rest of the morning on hold he walked into his office.

    When he walked in, he saw the two of them sitting together, hands sped and speaking in soft undertones.

    Contrary to what that image evoked his parents were not old, in fact, his father remained a perfect specimen of a man in his prime, his smile so much like his as his mother ever beautiful stood up to hug him. Enveloping him in a scent that somehow turned him into a little boy in her embrace

    "Mother" he greeted as he clung to her, he bent slightly to receive her hug. Standing up, Lei Xiao Tong barely made it to his chest.

    "My darling" she cooked, her hands tightening around him for the longest time before she let him go and shifted to the side to let him greet his father.

    "Father" he greeted the man in front of him, his father had stood up and even now drew him into a gruff hug and parted his back before releasing him.

    If his mother''s embrace had made him feel small, his father''s embrace made him feel ancient yet not old enough. He stood on roughly the same height as the man who had sired him but at the age of fifty-five, he was silvered at the temple and had a bit more wrinkles than his son, the only thing to distinguish between the two of them.

    "Lei Zhao." The greetings were perfunctory but Lei Zhao saw the love and pride shining in his father''s eyes "your mother wanted to see you"

    Lei Zhao knew that was only coded for very important where his family was concerned and his mother proved his thoughts right with her next words

    "We need to talk" Lei Zhao merely nodded and gestured them back to their seats as he took one opposite them. A steaming tea service stood on the table between them and Lei Zhao waited patiently as his father fixed two cups, handed one to his wife then his mom took on sip before nodding.

    "How have you both been?" he asked, he had not kept in touch with themtely and the guilt was mildly racking

    His mother waved his concerns away as she fixed him with a re. "Forget about us, what is this I hear about you bringing another woman home to your wife"

    Shock did not describe how he felt, the words were seemingly innocent but entirely not, in fact, they were spoken with a touch of acid that said he should be careful about his next words

    "It''s not quite like that, it''s Yue Yan" he ventured cautiously, when he spied the look of curiosity that passed between the two of them, he knew he had said the only right words.

    "What?" This came from his father, a single word loaded with questions.

    "Yes. She''s been in aa for the past three years" he informed them summarily.

    This time it was a look of shock that passed between the two of them before they turned to look at him. "And you didn''t inform us why?" His mother asked this time, dropping the cup and saucer with a sharp click on the ss table

    "I only just found out myself, with no form of identification on her andpletely thrown off by the crash, she was rescued by a good Samaritan couple and she has been in aa for three straight years until she woke up recently" Lei Zhao exined in detail, his mind reliving the moment he had found out

    His parents mirrored the shock he had felt then, even if they had not been very enthusiastic about getting her as a daughter-inw, the both of them had treated her beyond civilly and were naturally concerned about her. Another unable but tangible energy filled the room, it was a thread of guilt that was shared by the three of them

    "Recently?" His mother echoed in confusion.

    He nodded, letting the exhaustion show for the first time. "For the longest time she wasn''t sure her dreams were real but she decided to go out on a limb and tried to locate me."

    "Poor girl," his Father finally responded after a short pause that swept the room "that changes everything"

    His mother, however, was not easily convinced. "Not exactly. My daughter-inw has enough on her tes to add convalescent nursing to it."

    "Mother, she has a live-in nurse. I would never do that to Yan Mei" Lei Zhao rushed to exin

    "Nevertheless," she continued with an edge in her voice, "that is no reason for you to bring her home, what happened to convalescent homes? Somece where she would have had care round the clock until she was ready to get back on her feet."

    "After three years ofa, all the physical injuries have healed it''s the mental ones that worried me, she needed more than care, she needed a home" Lei Zhao segued his point

    Bit his mother was more than adamant on that count. "Just not your home, why did you bring her to your home son?"

    "Yan Mei suggested it, and I agreed because it seemed like the perfect choice at the time even if I was already making other ns" he recounted

 Chapter 350 A motherâ€™s concern (2)

    <h4>Chapter 350 A mother''s concern (2)</h4>

    "You should have gently convinced her that it was not the best n." His mother retorted as she picked up her tea again and gulped the entire contents and dropping it back neatly on the tray.

    Over her head, he caught his father''s eye and the older man shook his head subtly, Lei Zhao felt a bit chastised.

    "Have you seen Yan Mei?" He argued, "there is no convincing her otherwise."

    "I still think you''re burdening my daughter-inw with too much, you should not have taken advantage of her kind-heartedness. You know she can''t help it" his mother continued with a touch of asperity, one hand sped in her husband and the other gesturing vaguely in the air

    "Mother" he started but his father cut in

    "Listen to your mother, son. Having a house-guest especially one with so much history between the both of you cannot be easy for her" his words were not as light as they sounded

    Between the two of them, Lei Zhao was feeling steamrolled. "But they are actually getting along" he added as ast-ditch effort to save himself

    His mother scoffed with an expression on her face that said men were especially clueless, oddly enough his father seconded it.

    "You know I would never..." He tried to exin

    "We know son, the situation is so indelicate as to bepletely tactless." His father cut in again

    "I can''t send her to a care house now." He stated

    "That would be utterly tasteless of you." His mother seconded

    "I see"

    "Next time just focus on pleasing your wife, even if it means saving her from herself. I daresay Yan Mei would not kick the devil out of her house if he came begging" his father advised, earning him a fond look from his wife.

    "No, she won''t" he grudgingly agreed. Lei Zhao knew his parents loved Yan Mei and they saw her as their own daughter. To them, she was this weak and helpless woman who has suffered a lot.

    "See? It''s your job to protect her." His mother eximed triumphantly

    "I''ll do better" he promised

    His father, noting his demeanor said, "don''t worry son, it''s an honest mistake." Lei Zhao nodded barely mollified.

    His mother caught his hand across the table. It was a stretch but she made, drawing a smile out of him as she asked, "now tell me all about my darling daughter-inw, I''ve been meaning to go see her at the office."

    "Woman you have enough pieces of jewelry" his father cut in with a soft reprimand aimed at his wife drew a chuckle out of him

    "I''m going to see my daughter-inw not browse pieces of jewelry" his mother protested but there was no missing the mischievous look in her eyes or the fond look her husband gave her as he replied

    "No one said you can''t do both."

    "Hmmmph" she scoffed imperiously at her husband before turning to home with a glint in her eyes. Lei Zhao groaned an action that drove chuckles from his father who knew what wasing next. His mother remained undaunted as she looked at him and asked "when am I getting grandchildren? I''m getting old"

    "Mother," he tried to evade "you will never grow old"

    Her eyes shone with thepliment but she didn''t say a word only raise her eyebrows expressively and waited. Lei Zhao swore under his breath, careful to mumble the words, something about standing in front of his parents turned him into a clumsy teenager telling a hard truth.

    "Soon" he blurted finally bit she remained unconvinced, in the background he heard his fatherughing uproariously. Despite the fact that he was feeling fidgety he couldn''t help the wave of love that enveloped him, a thick nket that felt like home.

    *********

    Yan Mei was on the floor inspecting a tray of shipments when she heard hering. Yue Yan was too much of a beauty to pass through a crowd unseen, not with that vibrant energy and real joy in her expression.

    Yan Mei wondered why she wasn''t at work then concluded it must be her day off and calmly returned to shoveling the diamonds into carefully weighed packets.

    This was not something she had to do, but she loved getting her hands on once in a while, for a reason, she had been uneasy and twitchy up in her office. An hour of performing the most basic and almost mindless tasks had her rxing. She was still shaky though, a state of mind that she was quickly reconciling herself to.

    Yan Mei quickly sealed off thest of the packets, put them into an evenrger envelope which shebeled appropriately, and stashed them away before she picked her suit jacket and headed straight for the force of nature that was Yue Yan.

    "Sis!" the loud cheerful voice called the moment she cleared the room.

    Yan Mei looked up to find a smiling Yue Yan among a small circle of admirers, some of whom were clients, a few were her own bold employees. She pursed her lips at that, wondering how to disperse the little gathering.

    "Day off?" She questioned, raising her voice above the hub.

    "Yes, Lei Zhao insists on half days, for the time being, tomorrow I graduate to a full day worker" Yue Yan supplied the information with a mocking lilt that told her what she thought of the idea.

    Yan Mei wished her good luck with taking Lei Zhao''s overprotective tendencies, almost two years of marriage had made him even more so, not less and she had finally made her peace with it.

    It had a lot of merits though, like when he would call randomly in the middle of the day because he wanted to know she was doing alright even though he knew she was, no doubt from his spies in her office.

    Or how he woulde to her office some days, especially a hectic day with a lunch basket, forcing her to take a break and rx because in his own words ''you forget how the world works when you allow yourself to get caught up in work. You''ll just disappear and where would that leave me?''

    It helped that he softened his scolds with kisses then plied her with food that tasted like heaven before he seductively promised her more if she got home on time.

 Chapter 351 The accident

    <h4>Chapter 351 The ident</h4>

    Yan Mei snapped back to reality in a rush of awareness and quickly patted her cheeks to check for drool and cool the sudden hot blush zing there. Even without being there, her husband managed to draw explosive reactions from her.

    She hoped no one had noticed her sudden daydream. One discreet look around made her aware that every eye was riveted on Yue Yan, as it should. Yan Mei had never considered herself a beauty, no matter how her husband tried to convince her; she took his lovestruckpliments for what they were in her stride and moved on.

    She had naturally envied one or two features but there was no way she could find herself jealous of Yue Yan''s beauty and her infectious verve for life. Of course, she''d felt a twinge or two and had initially been ufortable with her husband rekindling a rtionship with his ex the first time he had spoken of it.

    That feeling had quickly faded the minute she heard her story, a sense of kinship had developed instead. Now she was just grateful for her and happy that she had bounced back happily and readjusting to life after losing three years.

    She waved in the general direction of Yue Yan''s admirers who seemed to have blocked the petite girl from view and turned to the bank of elevators heading to her office.

    She had a lot of things to do now that her head was clear and she knew that Yue Yan would drop in as soon as possible.

    She made it two steps in that direction before Yue Yan called her again. Yan Mei sighed, a theatrical performanceplete with eye rolls before she stalked across the sales floor to rescue her honorary sister.

    Between the two of them was a bank of disy ss, showcasing finished pieces of jewelry in artistic settings. Some were in ssic styles, others were more dated or bold styles that appealed to select crowds but she was nothing if not enterprising and Yan Mei had found and expanded a market in which people wanted pieces of jewelry that enhanced and catered to their select personalities.

    The disy sses were individual boxes resting on iron and velvet frames to facilitate their removal and perusal by clients, it was only when she was halfway across that the intense sense of foreboding caused her to look to the left.

    The whine of heavily burdened metal caught the attention of everyone and drew their gaze around that area of the disy frame, Yan Mei walked faster, hoping to do something, anything to prevent the disaster that was unfolding right in front of her eyes when an entire line warped,unching its contents at her.

    It was as if the entire floor froze collectively, her legs felt like putty trying to tackle themand to stop running forward and escape the ss cases racing towards her. If her feet felt like y, her senses felt overcharged, over aware.

    Somehow she caught the expression of more than a few people in that room, there was the expected look of shock, fear, rm, and even macabre fascination, all of them witnesses to the train wreck that was somehow her life today.

    The bubble of silence bursts and she could suddenly hear the screams of most everyone on that floor, one in a particr way high pitched, getting closer by the minute, and sounded achingly familiar.

    Yan Mei was almost looking in the right direction to see a blur of pinks and gold''s crash into her, pushing her clear of disy sses headed for her. She hit the floor and heard the tinkling of broken ss at the same time, she had a moment''s reprieve before the pain crashed into her.

    *********

    The caller had been frantic, rying the incidents to him without taking a breath, as a result, the words were garbled.Lei Zhao calmly asked whoever it was to repeat that before he registered that it was his wife''s new personal assistant talking.

    That realization had fired up his own anxiety immediately, when he finally made sense of her words, the anxiety had punched through his gut and driven the breath out of his body.

    He''d walked out of the office with instructions to cancel all his meetings as he rushed to the banks of the elevators and straight to the parking lot. The ride to the hospital took less than ten minutes and he barged into the emergency room. He searched for her in the waiting room but found the pale personal assistant choking down the cup of sludge that was called coffee in hospitals around the world.

    The woman had sprung to her feet at the sight of him "right this way sir, the both of them are surprisingly okay"

    ''The both of them?!'' There was no way he had misheard her words, his body reacted on a near visceral level to the possibility of losing both his wife and the best friend he had only just reconnected with recently.

    He felt like screaming, or punching something to ease the churning rage in his gut, his fists clenched until they bled white, his short nails digging into the skin of his palms as he struggled to control himself.

    The momentsted a short while, he exhaled loudly, adjusted his tie, and gestured at the scared woman to lead the way.

    When they first entered the room, he found the two of them more or less intact. There were no physical signs of what they had just gone through except the air of shock and anxiety that was tantly advertised on their faces.

    The both of them looked up in tandem to see who hade in, Yan Mei got up from her chair and smiled as she walked into his embrace. His arms banded around her in a near-crushing embrace as he wondered how he would have reacted if he came in and saw her....

    ''No, don''t think about that,'' he chastised himself silently, allowing himself to sink into her scent and her embrace. Over her shoulders, he smiled at Yue Yan and she gave him a tired smile in return.

    It was a few minutes before he released her from the almost painful hold, in the aftermath of it all, his body shook subtly with the excess of adrenaline but he didn''t let go of her hands.

 Chapter 352 Fear of losing her.

    <h4>Chapter 352 Fear of losing her.</h4>

    Lei Zhao strode forward until he got to the chair she had vacated when he entered the room, he sat down and drew her into hisps, unwilling to let go of her just yet. Before asking "tell me what happened, don''t leave any details out."

    After receiving instructions on how to handle shock, they were allowed to go home. Immediately he hade through the door, he had released Yue Yan into the care of her nurse. However, his hands remained tightly around his wife as he carried her up to the bedroom.

    After a few minutes of telling him that she could take care of herself, Yan Mei subsided into silence and allowed him to do it. He was grateful for that, he didn''t know how to exin the urgency of the emotions riding him. He knew that if he opened his mouth to say a word, he would cry.

    He sealed his lips and took care of her, he left her only once, to run the bath in the water before he carried her into the bath, delicately sponging every inch of her body. His hands traced the small cuts where flying ss had cut her skin, he traced them methodically, bathing her slowly, intent on investigating every inch of her skin to make sure she was not hurt or bleeding. He needed her to be safe in his arms.

    Even though he had not been there, his mind could not help supplying images of what had happened or what could have happened if Yue Yan had not gotten there fast enough. Every image was more gruesome than thest.

    He took his time bathing her, then got out of the bath first to hold a towel for her. He carried her to the room after wiping the excess moisture away and dressed her in an oversized shirt of his before he tucked her into bed. He called for dinner, when he left her to get it outside the room and fed her every spoon until she shook her head. Only then did he take some of it or himself, he left her onest time to drop the tray outside the door before getting into bed and tucking her under his arm, holding her tight and trying to keep the thoughts at bay.

    He had almost lost her today, the possibilities shed before his eyes and he couldn''t help but shudder with every picture that assaulted his senses. She was safe now, in his arms now but his mind refused to believe it. His arms tightened around her until she squirmed and he released it, just enough until she rxed against him again.

    They were both awake but she didn''t say a word and he didn''t trust himself to make coherent sounds if he tried, he was afraid that if he opened his mouth he would scream like a madman at the images sifting through his brain.

    She was the best thing in his world, his everything and he had almost lost her today, the implications of those words made him shudder, driving her to hold on to him in a silent show of support.

    They slept like that, and when he woke up in the morning he refused to let go, his empire could go burn for all he cared for, he knew there was no way he could leave his wife alone today.

    He looked down at her, noting the purple bruises patching her skin, the fear and anger roared through him again. No, there was no way he was going to just leave her today, not when she curled around him like a lost waif, purple bags adorning the underside of her eyes.

    He winced at the angry colour, it was fading but the implication was clear, she deserved to be taken care of.

    It wasn''t untilter that he realized she had slept the night through, too tired for the nightmares, the thought should haveforted him but it spoke of a deeper exhaustion in her than he was aware of and he couldn''t budge the sense of guilt that apanied those thoughts.

    ********

    "Yan Mei is a better person than I am, I would never put up with my wife''s ex in our personal space and I wouldn''t even ask her to do it for me. In fact, I''ll just pay the hospital bills and wish whoever it is well, but bring them to our house?" Jun Mo eximed and Lei Zhao winced,the disapproval hit home.

    Lei Zhao looked at the righteous anger in the face of his childhood friend and felt stumped. Exnations were in order but he felt that it wouldn''t make much of a difference yet.

    The news had spread quickly on the heels of the events of a few days ago. As if someone had seen the three of them exiting the hospital or they had heard of it from Yan Mei''s employees who had witnessed the near-fatal ident ur, them and half of the city.

    The calls had starteding in, with most people worried about Yan Mei and asking after her health, a select few held censure in their voices when referring to Yue Yan, and some people, close friends had outrightly asked him what the hell he thought he was doing.

    It was as if they had unanimously agreed that he was the bad guy and they needed to rescue his wife from him. On one hand, he was happy for the support that they showed her, such a unanimous show of love and concern was unprecedented, on the other hand, he was tired of being cast in the role of the oblivious or bad husband. If he felt the visit from his parents had made him feel stupid, this one with his peers was much worse.

    Jun Mo was waiting for an answer that Lei Zhao didn''t know if he had, in hindsight what had seemed to be a good move sounded almost unintelligible when spoken out loud.

    "You want a drink?" he asked and walked to the mini-bar in his office without waiting for an answer. A momentter he returned with three snifters of cognac and handed one to Jun Mo, and Edward Wu who had been surprisingly quiet. Edward Wu held the liquid up to the light, swirled it around, took a sniff of the pungent bouquet, put the ss to his lips, and gave a satisfied smile at the first sip.

    "Rx, Jun Mo. That woman isn''t stupid. She knows exactly what she is doing."

 Chapter 353 Friendâ€™s advice

    <h4>Chapter 353 Friend¡¯s advice</h4>

    Jun Mo frowned as he turned to look at his friend.

    "What do you mean?"

    Edward Wu just scoffed and ignored his friend. He knew that woman wasn''t a simple woman who would be so stupid to invite her husband ex to live with them. She definitely had something up her sleeves.

    Lei Zhao dispensed with ceremony entirely as he loosened his tie, removed his jacket before sitting down then polishing half the contents of the ss in one go.

    He looked up to find Jun Molooking at him quizzically. "Feeling the heat"

    "In more ways than one, how is that secretary of yours Edward," he asked conversationally, grasping at anything to defer the lecture he knew was sure toe. In all of their circle growing up, Edward had been the one he had grown closest with because he had a perspective that was thought-provoking and wasn''t afraid of the truth.

    Edward Wu just red at Lei Zhao and rolled his eyes at him.

    "Beautiful and yes, I''m fucking her now. Happy? And don try to change the subject" Edward Wu circled back neatly.

    Lei Zhao sighed, he should have known he could not have evaded it. "In my defense, I didn''t know people would react like this to me"

    Edward Wu shrugged, before replying "I didn''t see a problem beyond mild inconvenience until my sister exined things from her perspective very carefully to me"

    "What did she say?" He was genuinely curious

    "She said it was as if you had gone and adopted a child without telling your wife now she has to bear it gracefully."Lei Zhao winced

    "Mentioning that Yue Yan is an adult of her own won''t further my argument right?" He asked without hope of a favorable response

    Edward Wu merely shook his head from side to side before saying "it''s only going to make it worse"

    "I thought so, and mentioning that Yan Mei offered, almost insisted is not going to..." He never got to finish the sentence

    "Nope." A single word, very emphatic.

    "I didn''t think so"

    "You look stressed, the sudden attention too much for you Mister billionaire?" Lei Zhao looked up from his thoughts to find his friend regarding him with a concerned look.

    "It''s Yan Mei " he admitted carefully

    "What happened?" Jun Mo asked, none of the censures in his voice this time.

    "She had an ident at work two days ago"

    Jun Mo froze, then carefully dropped the snifter in his hand. "Why am I just hearing this?"

    Lei Zhao sighed, aware of the sudden shift in the atmosphere "I can''t wrap my head around it just yet, I don''t think I have words to exin the entire scene without losing my mind."

    "Try" his friend prompted, not unkindly.

    "I think I''m going to need more of this." Lei Zhao gestured at the ss in his hand but he didn''t make a move to get up and refill it, he didn''t trust his legs to carry him without folding halfway.

    "The workday is practically over, take your time and tell me about it.," Jun Mo encouraged lightly.

    "I want to clobber your head in for letting me rant all this while and you were like this" was his friend''s calm reply

    "Thanks, man" the words were grave, the sentiment behind them even heavier. He had epted those words for the show of love and concern they truly were about.

    "What are friends for?"

    Lei Zhao didn''t get another snifter of cognac, he finished the contents of the ss in his hands then twirled it, focusing on the gentle rainbows it cast in the light instead of the emotional excess in his mind.

    He quietly recounted how Yue Yan had saved his wife not just two days ago but for all the other times, his voice deliberately neutral. When he finished the silence in the room stretched out for the longest time.

    Edward Wu''s face tightened as he ryed his story, his actions measured as he took a small sip out of the contents of the ss in his hands "Wow, that''s a lot to bear, then people with their opinions"

    Lei Zhao chuckled, it revealed his exhaustion, "I''m not even mad, I see how everyone has a point but the thing I enjoy most is how everyone is like ''how dare you do that to Yan Mei'' that she has the entire world on her side even against me is everything."

    Edward Wu eyed him balefully. "Trust you to see the good side of it."

    Lei Zhao smiled this time, "I''m a businessman, and trust me, there is always a good side even if it''s not your side."

    "That''s a lot to swallow"

    "Tell me about it," Lei Zhao repliedunching into his own thoughts. "I''ve been unable to sleep for the past few days, I can''t even give myself a moment of rest. Every time I close my eyes I can''t help but see the ident happen again, I was not there but my mind can''t help supply the images, and this time, Yue Yan does not get there fast enough, in fact, no one is there when it happens and the ending is....."

    His friend cut him off with a brutal "Lei Zhao "

    "Yes, that" he replied summarily, there was nothing else he could have said

    "Well she''s good for something¡­...if she is not the one causing it." Edward Wu observed quietly

    "Who?" Lei Zhao asked, unable to hide his confusion at his friend''s words

    "Yue Yan, she''s saved Yan Mei twice and that''s a huge plus in my books, though the timing is a bit suspicious" he pointed out

    The defense came automatically and with precise emphasis, "she would never"

    Edward Wu waved it off airily, "I know, a bit too dramatic to go to such lengths but she''s no angel"

    "None of us are, Yue Yan would never" Lei Zhao insisted

    That only drew a sour look from his friend, "see you defending her"

    Lei Zhao wilted at those words but doubled back immediately. "Surprisingly, everyone thinks she has bad intentions, she''s not like that, you know her."

 Chapter 354 A friendâ€™s advice(2)

    <h4>Chapter 354 A friend¡¯s advice(2)</h4>

    Edward Wu remained unmoved and strongly disapproving as he said, "that was from three years ago and I never liked her, not that I knew her or cared to. In fact, her face is a little fuzzy in my memory but I don''t remember being very interested in knowing her, I always thought that as a friend to you that was okay but the whole dating didn''t sit right with me. Who knows how aa can change a person."

    Lei Zhao couldn''t quite believe his ears if he had been asked, he would have said they were friends of a sort, " she''s fine, I promise. She and Yan Mei get along so well and I''ve even given her back her job" but the moment he said those words, it hit him about how wrong they sounded

    Edward Wu dropped the snifter in his hands on the table, leaned forward, and pinned him with a re, "let me get this straight, she''s your ex-girlfriend but she lives in your house, the same house your share with your wife, she''s friends with your wife and works with you in the office?"

    It sounded so wrong when it was spoken out loud, Lei Zhao winced atying out facts that made things look even worse for him. "You make it sound ndestine when you say it like that"

    "Because it is" Jun Mo pointed out, his voice impassioned.

    "I love my wife," Lei Zhao felt the need to point it out

    Edward Wu nodded easily but waves it aside to make his point, "I know, you know, your wife knows, probably even Yue Yan can see that but what about the rest of the world?"

    "Dammit" Lei Zhao exploded

    His friend remained unmoved by his sudden show of anger, "You''ll have to just let her find a ce of her own, and a new job"

    "I can''t do that to her" he answered, it seemed extreme to cut off an old friend for what felt like saving his own skin

    "Sure you can, if she keeps working here even living by herself, nothing has changed. If you think people are overreacting now? Wait until that happens." Edward Wu pointed out unkindly before getting to his feet and going straight for the mini-bar.

    A sudden silence descended on the room, broken only by the clink of ice in the ss and the sloshing sound of liquid pouring.

    Someone knocked on the door and Lei Zhao asked them toe in, the door opened to reveal Yue Yan in the doorway. "Pleasee in," he said when he noted her reticence to enter his office because she saw a visitor with him.

    Lei Zhao got to his feet and introduced the two of them. "Edward, Jun Mo meet Yue Yan , Yue Yan this is Edward and Jun Mo, you guys outta know each other."

    If Lei Zhao had hopes that Edward and Yue Yan would hit it off or even like each other one bit, that hope was brutally dashed on the rocks of reality. Yue Yan''s face was painfully polite as the two of them shared the briefest handshake in the whole of human history.

    Jun Mo was not any better, his eyebrows had arched at the introduction and the look on his face had be faintly usatory after the handshake.

    " I just came to drop a few things that needed your signature urgently" she informed him

    "Thank you, Yueyue, please drop them on the desk, I get to them as soon as possible."

    "Of course" she murmured before walking up to his desk and dropping the slim envelope on the table before turning to walk out.

    Jun Mo''s eyebrows remained arched, the look in them was much more usatory before itpletely cleared off.

    "Whatever guilt you think you have about that, you need to let it go. You''re too blind to see it but you''re about to ruin your own life." Jun Mo murmured

    "Come on Jun Mo"

    "Do you remember how life works again?" His friend asked, drawing him to a pause.

    "Of course I do " his voice was testy

    "No," Jun Mo replied, his head shaking in dissent "you''ve been the Golden boy for so long you don''t realize a huge no when you see it"

    "Don''t be like that, poor Yue Yue "

    Edward Wu scoffed into his ss "Poor Yue Yue, you even have a nickname for her, and she''s your assistant, I bet the both of you drive to and from work together."

    "As a matter of fact yes"

    "You poor fool" the tone pitying

    Lei Zhao couldn''t describe how much that time grated on his mind "careful"

    "You be careful, you''re about to throw away the rest of your already perfect life for some sort of guilt or heroplex for poor yueyue" Edward pointed out, his voice acidic.

    Lei Zhao has no idea how much he envied him finding love and getting married. Even though he was cold hearted, deep down he wanted to find love too. Suddenly his secretary''s red face shed across his eyes.

    Edward Wu shook his head to get the image out of his head. That woman was really messing him up.

    "Nothing is going wrong" Lei Zhao maintained

    His friend was having none of that "Not yet it isn''t but the gossip is only going to get worse"

    "Yan Mei doesn''t subscribe to gossip," he tried again

    Edward merely eyed him with a look that said he was being especially stupid about the current situation. "She doesn''t need to, it only needs to feel people pity her from left and right before it gets to her. You know how this works, no one is interested in the truth, especially if it looks anything like that."

    "What do you mean?"

    "Figure it out but do so really fast before you start losing things you can''t afford and I don''t mean your business."

    Lei Zhao was startled at those words, he couldn''t stop the coil of worry it unfurled in him "Is it really that bad already"

    "Everyone was worried, now I am. Yan Mei is a better human being than any of us, she doesn''t deserve this or what is going to happen if you don''t do something. If you didn''t allow your guilt to cloud your reasons, you would have seen that already." Edward pointed out, his voice grave with implications

    Lei Zhao did not argue about that, not when every single truth hit him with the force of a speeding train. The arrangement had been innocent enough but life was not exactly kind and he should know that if he hadn''t allowed the guilt to cloud his reasoning. He could only offer a weak "I see your point"

    "I knew you would, I love your brother and I still think that crash was the worst thing that ever happened but you don''t have to pay for the rest of your life, you can''t pay a debt that''s not yours by burning up your world," Edward replied his voice low with a lot of unsaid words

    "I understand, I''ll start making ns"

    "Fast"

    Lei Zhao sighed and promised, "already on it"

 Chapter 355 Her plans

    <h4>Chapter 355 Her ns</h4>

    She kept her breathing even, and her limbspletely rxed, even carelessly sprawled until she heard the sound of the door closing with a definitive click.

    That was the second time the nurse hade to check on her in a matter of minutes and such painstakingly intense dedication to duty was going to be a pain to work around.

    She waited a few seconds just in case and opened her eyes with a snap, a look around confirmed what she knew, she was alone in the richly appointed room and finally rxed.

    The room looked beautiful, airy without being ovee with light, just the sort of room a convalescent patient needed to rest and find a new vigor for life, too bad she wasn''t sick at all.

    Keeping up appearance sapped more of her strength than she believed possible, keeping up a cheerful mien had been particrly taxing but she had needed to improvise and adjust carefully.

    She hadn''t nned this but all in all, it was a better n than what she had in mind. With one final look around her, she released the mour around her, her body grew pink with health until it seemed as if a touch would stain a person''s fingers. The nondescript skin took on a life of its own until it seemed as if it was studded with living shimmers that traveled all over her body and made the body more luminous and sinuous.

    Her height almost doubled, her eyes gained a dark red tint, her ears disappeared under a tangle of blood-red hair that moved in an airless wave forming a dark halo around her. Even her voice didn''t remain untouched, it gained a huskier tint until it was a seductive rasp as she got out of the bed, headed for the mirror perched in front of her.

    She admired herself briefly before she spoke the words, waiting patiently until the mirror in front of her rippled and smoothed out to show a reflection not her own.

    The scene that yed out in the mirror was indescribable, a wild montage of red, ck, and sickly yellow was the dominant color but in the middle was a single figure fast asleep. The figure shone with a strange light, it wasn''t white but it wasn''t ck either, but it was a distinct shade of light, not pure but more thatpletely encapsted the sleeping figure, blurring everything but the outer edges of his form from view.

    The rays flowed and ebbed in a mesmerizing disy around the seemingly dead body, but even with the barrier between them, she knew who it was and was aware that the power was more than she could ever wield.

    But that didn''t stop her greed for it, Yue Yan reached until her hand hit the cold imprable surface of the mirror before stepping away from the vision, behind her the mirror regained its silver state.

    Her ns were moving along beautifully, all possible sources of hindrance were otherwise upied and the entire world was her chessboard to y with.

    Already, she could envision how she would move people like pawns and the immense satisfaction she would get from it. Humans were so predictable with their over-the-top reactions and she thoroughly enjoyed moving them to the extremes of emotions.

    She had been so believable, and they had been so eager to believe that things were going even better than she thought. She loved this game, she was going to enjoy ying this game and when she was done ying, the board would be liberally streaked with years and blood, a perfect picture.

    Then she smiled, a macabre show of dagger-sharp white teeth as she walked back to bed, with every step the startling beauty of her true self disappeared until only the confused and exhausted invalid remained, only that smile that hinted of perverse pleasures and dangers remained.

    If she was careful, she would not have to reveal herself until thest minute, the idea of being an amnesiac was a good one, it afforded her a lot of loopholes and generated a constant source of pity she could put to good use.

    There was love between the two of them but it didn''t matter, it would make her victory all the sweeter for breaking them. Even now, jealousy surged through her making her want tosh out madly.

    When she had heard the news in the hospital and seen the look of bliss on his face, a sudden surge of rage had descended on her, her irond control was the only reason she had not flipped the tray and howled at the injustice of it all.

    Yan Mei didn''t deserve to happy. She didn''t deserve such a good husband.The thought lit another flicker of rage in her mind but she quickly quelled it. There was no need for her to be hasty about her revenge, she would take it slow until she had an undeniable victory.

    The victory was the point of it all, the only oue that was eptable to her.

    Happy now she crawled back into bed and allowed herself to finally rest, tomorrow was going to be a big day, and she couldn''t wait for it to start already.

    **********

    "I didn''t take you for the type to marry a wife you would have to coddle so much," she said coddle, she meant weak and the disdain with which she spat the word would have alerted anyone to the fact that something was amiss.

    Anyone except Lei Zhao who just chuckled, a heartyugh before replying, "Yan Mei is quite strong, she had survived things that would bring anyone else to their knees"

    "Anyone can survive anything, given time" she spat with uncharacteristic vitriol. Yue Yan knew better than to openly antagonize his wife but something about the blind adoration where she was concerned set her on a dangerous edge. "I thought you were this shrewd businessman. Cutthroat and savvy, I actually thought you would find a person who could easily match you"

 Chapter 356 Soon

    <h4>Chapter 356 Soon</h4>

    Yue Yan threw the words as a casual challenge. She had been working closely with him for a month and they had developed a rapport in which they could discuss most anything.

    Thete afternoon light streaming that reflected through the wall of ss that made up an entire side of his cast office cast a warm light over the room.

    If she looked at it, it seemed as if she caught a flicker of hell''s fires, it was not exactly aforting thought.

    Lei Zhao stood in front of the ss, a king quietly surveying his kingdom, not knowing he would soon be brought to his feet.

    Somewhere along the line, her objectives had shifted from destroying Yan Mei to disgracing her, letting the world truly see the weakness in her, and finally destroying her.

    She wanted everyone to see her for her true self, a weak sniveling coward who froze in the face of danger and had to be saved. That wasn''t going to do at all, they insisted on showing concern and being kind to her and it rankled her. Somewhere along the line, it had gotten important to prove that she was better than Yan Mei.

    "Holding out till the battle is over takes a lot of strength but she''s done more than that. She''s gone through hell with grace and she''s ready to face it all again" Lei Zhao touted with a blissful smile, he didn''t see the surge of anger that contorted the face of his long-lost friend and new personal assistant.

    The spells she had nted hadn''t worked, no matter how many times she has renewed it with her blood, it still withered in twenty-four hours. That much was obvious, if they did she wouldn''t be here hearing him wax rhapsodic about his wife, instead he would be all over her as he should be. Tethered and lost to allure, promising to set himself and his world on fire for her.

    Every incident incensed, the trust they showed her annoyed her. The fact that they believed her made the embers of her hatred fan higher, every incident in which she emotionally ensnared them by hashing out false scenarios of the rescue made her disdain for them even worse.

    She was toying with them, and she had neither love nor respect for her puppets, the way they fell in line do easily made him lose respect for them. Especially,Yan Mei, she had thought it would be more difficult she had believed she would be more. At least aware enough to recognize the truth, during enough to fight; no such luck.

    Yue Yan quickly smoothed her face as Lei Zhao turned around, she steeled herself as he came closer. It was the natural reaction of a predator even if they were only unsuspecting prey, even now she wondered what he would do if she tore away her mour and set after him. She masked the thought with a smile, slowing him to pat her on her left shoulder.

    "I know it may not seem like much but she''s been trying hell, and she deserves heaven and I''ve sworn to give her that or die trying." His smile was wistful now, his mind lost in thoughts for one brief moment before he snapped back to the present.

    The smile that curved her lips were full of malicious irony that was easy to misinterpret. Lei Zhao smiled in return and checked his watch obviously eager to go home, but he returned to his seat behind the desk and sat down as if he didn''t have a single care in the whole world.

    Yue Yan watched him with detached eyes, malevolent apathy swirling in her eyes. He might not realize it but he had believed his perfect wife had gone through hell already. Nothing could be farther from the truth, a stillborn child and the hatred of a man who loved her was not hell.

    It was merely the results of the meddling of a demon who had inflicted her with constant misfortunes. No one knew hell like her, especially when she had been born in it, raised in it, fought in it, and would someday rule in it. Nobody knew hell as she did but if Yan Mei was lucky before she died, she would get a taste.

    "I know you''re still shaken by what happened. I''m sure returning to the hospital so soon after your recent pain experience in it is enough ground to be shaky." Lei Zhao sympathized unknowingly raiding her hackles with his good intentions.

    "Yes, that" her voice had barely a trace of sarcasm, easily missed, "I think that''s just it."

    "I just want you to know you''re strong yourself. You''re capable of pulling through, give yourself time to adjust, and maybe take the day off?" He prompted his eyes shadowed with concern.

    Yue Yan gritted her teeth, it was all she could do to stop herself from reacting irrationally "I''ll think about it"

    "Give Yan Mei a chance, please" he added as an afterthought, his eyes riveted in hers

    "You''re right, I''m just shaken" she replied gently.

    "See? The wasn''t so hard," Lei Zhao smiled triumphantly at her from across the table, her cheeks ached with the blinding smile she directed back at him.

    In her mind, rage and anticipation warred but she quelled her mounting hunger with a curt promise. ''Soon''

    Lei Zhao looked at his wristwatch again and smiled, "I think it''s time we went home."

    Yue Yan nodded and walked to her own desk to the side of the office and began tidying up. The mindlessness of the task gave her a chance to master her expression.

    Her ns were unraveling but only because she couldn''t hold back on the rage pounding in her. They clustered like sheep and offered friendly smiles hoping that would change anything, what they didn''t know was that she was a being made entirely of hatred, anger, pain, and an unquenchable hunger.

    The only thing that would satisfy her was fulfilling her ns, the only thing that could date her now was blood. This game was quickly losing its allure, there was no pleasure to be found in manipting fools. It was time to strike, topletely show her hand and revel in the destruction she was about to bring.

 Chapter 357 The Forbidden wine

    <h4>Chapter 357 The Forbidden wine</h4>

    She nned it down to thest detail. She was after all a sophisticated creature that was better than the human she was toying with. The goal was not just victory, it was to win the perfect victory.

    With that view in mind she set her scene, she chose her clothes with care, applied her makeup with a practiced hand, and let a bit more of her mour slip.

    Her skin became seductively iridescent as she let more of her true self show. Her ws, horns, and teeth remained masked and she nodded at the finished work in the mirror.

    She didn''t bother to check the sleeping figure, nothing had changed, there was no masking it if he was awake. Taking the bottle of wine, a brand she had noticed Lei Zhao loved, she walked out of her room.

    The cool rays of the early evening sun suffused the house with a warm glow, Yue Yan marched through the house regally, carefully. Strutting through the rooms as if she was a queen and this was her domain, she hungered for that power and when she dispatched Yan Mei it would be.

    She walked to the back quarters and dismissed everyone. From the housekeeper to her own live-in nurse, everyone was dismissed with a few curt instructions.

    Like so much sheepishly they disbanded, almost catatonic in their need to do as she desired. A little push ofpulsion into her words had them forgetting that she was not thedy of the house, that she was just a guest and had no right to order them around.

    However, she wasn''t doing it out of the goodness of her heart to spare them, she had half a mind topel them to fight to the death among each other, the power just boiling under her skin almost demanded it. But she really didn''t need them there, only the major yers would witness this stage of the game.

    When she was satisfied that thest person had driven off, plucked two wine sses from the kitchen and ced them right beside her bottle of choice red wine, and waited for Lei Zhao toe home.

    He burst into the house with an aura of energy that she could have felt blindfolded. Even from a distance, the force of his emotions yed like lightning on her skin. Yue Yan smiled and waited for him to find her, Lei Zhao had a habit of scouring the house looking for his wife the moment he came home from work.

    She wasn''t afraid that Yan Mei would burst in anytime soon though, she had sent enough cmity to keep her upied until veryte.

    Lei Zhao burst into the kitchen with the enthusiasm of a small boy, but his smile dipped slightly when he found her sitting there and not his beloved wife. He smiled at her, but it was a tamer version of what he would offer his wife, and that annoyed her immensely.

    "Hey Yue Yan " he called with a smile as he walked into the kitchen, his enthusiasm somewhat curbed

    "Hey Lei Zhao , how was work today?" She returned in the same vein, her smile stilted

    "Really good, got a lot done. Enjoy your day off?" he inquired conversationally as he moved to the huge fridge nestled in a corner of the kitchen and retrieved a bottle of water from it.

    Yue Yan watched him intently, wondering when he would notice that the house was unusually silent; that it should be bustling with more bodies. "Just something I needed. I was able to make ns and put them in motion." She informed him with a sly smile

    "That''s a productive day then" hemented before chugging the contents of the bottle and disposing of it in the trash.

    "Sure. Hey, Lei Zhao "

    "Yeah?" He turned to her with his eyebrows raised

    "We need to talk."

    He stalked to the table and took a seat, after removing his suit jacket and cing it on the back of his chair he paid her full attention. "I hope those ns of yours do not include moving out just yet."

    "Oh, I''vee to the realization that I''m here to stay, at least for a while none of you would let me leave, not yet at least" she informed him with a smile that he returned innocently, unaware of the undertones in her sentence

    "Good good, that would just break Yan Mei''s heart, if you left so abruptly" He replied

    "What about you?" She asked

    He shrugged, "Same."

    "Lei Zhao . I got this for you" she indicated the bottle of wine between the two of them. It was a testament to his trust that he picked up the bottle, nced at thebel, and smiled before frowning.

    "Tell me you didn''t spend your hard-earned money on this" there was yful censure in his voice.

    She yed along, her eyes rounding innocently as she looked up at him in feigned confusion. "It''s a gift"

    "It''s not my birthday?" He returned with a yful frown

    "No, I just wanted to thank you for...." She never got a chance to finish, she had wanted to thank him for being there for her, what she really meant was making it too easy for her to achieve her aim in more ways than one.

    "Stop. Don''t even think about it, you''re my oldest friend and my only regret is that I didn''t know you were alive all these years" his voice veered sharply from yful to a slight tone of despair and guilt, she reveled in it

    "Technically I didn''t know it either so we are on the same side. Take the wine Lei Zhao , I know you love it." She prompted, her smile impossibly wide

    *It''s fine wine.*

    *The chef has..." she gestured vaguely "prepared it if you''re want to drink now" thepulsion filled the room but she shouldn''t have bothered, the words were barely out of her mouth before he got off the chair and plucked a corkscrew from its perch in the wall and returned to the table.

    The cork came free with a low pop and Lei Zhao wafted it under his nose twice before dropping it and picking up the wine sses.

 Chapter 358 Game begin

    <h4>Chapter 358 Game begin</h4>

    Lei Zhao poured a small amount into his ss, swirled it, and took a much-appreciated sip before adding more to his wine ss, then he poured a generous quantity into hers.

    His next words followed on the heels of a blissful sigh "this is fine wine"

    "I just knew you wouldn''t be able to resist that gift." The words were faintly sibnt.

    Lei Zhao opened his mouth to protest but Yue Yan cut him off with a vicious eye-roll "you know I had to do that, you of all people must understand"

    "Understanding and eptance are two different things, thanks, Yue Yue." He conceded, his eyes dancing around, looking at everything except her.

    "You haven''t called me that in a while" she observed casually, his actions almost endearing

    "I guess we''ve both been busy and all," he replied, a bit morose.

    Yue Yan rolled her eyes, and quickly changed the atmosphere with a chuckle "I''m just d to be alive"

    "I''ll drink to that" Lei Zhao chuckled as he raised his ss and toasted her.

    Yue Yan carefully picked up her ss and drank, the wine was delicious really but it was the small hint of what it truly contained that made her smile.

    Only the discerning pte with the help of supernatural senses would be able to discern the drop of liquid in the bottle, more than a few drops of water from the rivers of Oblivion; one of the many rivers in hell.

    It did not affect the supernatural in such minute quantities but even the most from the river had a dangerous effect on human minds. It messed with the mind and consumed its memories, rewiring the brain in a way that could not be healed or removed.

    The power in those waters was wild, primal but she could spell them to a purpose that didn''t contradict theirs. With every sip he took every drop of wine he imbibed, the enspelled water coursed through his body, doing its terrible job.

    She watched with an amused smile as Lei Zhao refilled his ss and hers, already she could see the effect of it on him. His skin shone with a cold radiance but he looked overheated, he absent-mindedly fumbled with his time and finally seeded in removing it. He flung the offending fabric on the table and took another sip of wine.

    "This is good, I can sense a subtle aftertaste that just improves everything, I''ve never tasted something from their vineyards this good. What year is this? I''m going to buy entire boxes of it for my wine cer" Lei Zhaomented casually, his eyes riveted on the bottle.

    When he had mentioned the aftertaste, Yue Yan had stiffened in surprise before she quickly reassured herself. There was no way he could discern the taste of Lethe under the overpowering taste of wine, but even that didn''t matter. There was one final property that the waters contained that made it dangerous even if a person had only been exposed to the mist of the river.

    Addiction, the waters were addictive, it sparked a siren song in the mind of the people it touched; driving them to a need to feed their minds to the rivers until they were washedpletely clear of everything that made them who they were. Some even drowned themselves in the mad rush to answer the call of the river.

    Lei Zhao topped his ss again and polished it off in a gulp, forsaking his usual good manners in the wake of the need to have more. A man of his personality in his right sense would have no doubt noticed how he was behaving irrationally but he was too far gone.

    Yue Yan watched him with an amused smile, going as far as dropping her mour but her beauty was not even enough of a lure to take his attention away from the bottle and its ruby red contents.

    Lei Zhao drank and drank until he had consumed thest drop. That was when he turned and took a good look at her with eyes that shone with the influence of something strange, he smiled. A stretch of his lips before he promptly copsed.

    Yue Yan jerked her leg out of the way as he slid to the ground, the enspelled water finally taking full hold of Lei Zhao. She knew he was going to be asleep, until she told him to wake up but that wouldeter, muchter.

    Yue Yan could have just taken the ce Yan Mei , wearing a mour constructed in the manner of her features after she did away with her but she had no interest in that, the idea rankled.

    What she chose to do was purge every memory of her from his mind, a three-montha for him, her funeral, and the rest of their lives ruling him and his world.

    Yue Yan looked beside her to see the man sprawled without care on the cold floor, snoring away as if he has nestled in the warmest softest bed.

    She got off the chair and walked to the living room just off the front door, and settled down in the armchair I''m her true form, waiting for Yan Mei .

    Waves of glee that were almost tangible pulsed from her body, the smile on Yue Yan''s face became vaguely threatening before shifting into downright malevolent with every passings second.

    The moment she heard the key rattling in the door, she got up to her feet, mour snapping back into ce before she headed for the door to wee Yan Mei into what would end up being the rest of her life.

    Where is everyone?" Yan Mei called as she toed off her shoes before picking them up and headed for her bedroom, when she turned the corner and saw Yue Yan who had stood there watching from her vantage position she screamed for a short second.

    Yue Yan relished the scream and promised herself more.

 Chapter 359 Game begin(2)

    <h4>Chapter 359 Game begin(2)</h4>

    Yan Mei felt exhausted from the top of her head to the soles of her feet. Today had been a particrly taxing day for no good reason; somehow all her workers, even her ever-dependable personal assistant, had forgotten how to do their job efficiently.

    She had to keep the ball rolling herself, especially when she discovered that tempers were at an all-time high, or low depending on the person. Just like that, she had spent the entire day outside the office, putting out little fires and making sure things didn''t unravel too far.

    The only highlight to her day was when Ying Sheng hade in to visit her. She seemed very happy and Yan Mei was proud of her. They talked about her rtionship with Liam and school. It seems Liam was really her soulmate.

    Ying Sheng had refused lunch in favour of light snacks, something Yan Mei had been quietly grateful for. The anxiety fueled nausea had not abated, In fact Yan Mei felt as if she wasing down with something, her whole body schedule and she couldn''t even me it in the ident she had a few days ago.

    She could, however, me her sleeplessness and excessive tiredness on that but the excuse was wearing thin. She had functioned fine for the past three years despite battling nightmares, she didn''t understand the sudden change.

    But she had quickly set those worries aside in favour of talking with her favourite cousin-inw. Ying Sheng had a biting humor that only revealed itself to those she wasfortable with, Yan Mei had just the same temperament and it was no surprise that they were both in stitches as her visitor recounted a recent date.

    The visit had been one full hour ofughter and banter until Ying Sheng had said her goodbyes promising to visit soon but not before Yan Mei had extracted a promise from her to visit more often.

    The easy joy of that visit had stayed with her through the day as she dealt with problems that reared their heads at the worst possible moments. In that whirlwind, she''d forgotten lunch and rest in her mad rush and as a consequence was groggy, hungry and her skin felt thick with dry sweat she wasn''t sure what had the energy to wash off.

    Yan Mei opened the door and looked around, the house seemed oddly forlorn and empty in a disconcerting. It could have been because the hallway lights were off, something that had never happened before.

    Even if the bulb had shorted, the eagle-eyed housekeeper would have caught it by now and called the electrician. Yan Mei shrugged and moved to deposit her handbag on a table before bending down to remove her shoes and picked them up, heading straight for her room.

    She wanted nothing more than to bath, eat a hearty meal and curl into her husband''s warmth for a night of sleep, she was so exhausted she didn''t think she had enough energy for nightmares. The thought should have beenforting but she couldn''t shake the feeling that something was wrong.

    The empty feeling was starting to feel a bit eerie, a small tingle of foreboding simmering down her spine. She knew Lei Zhao should be home by now, even if he was stayingte, he would have called to inform her; that was when she realized that he had not called her for the whole day.

    Yan Mei debated getting her phone out and calling him as she rounded the corner into the living room. She looked up, puzzled at the prickling of her skin to see two yellow eyes floating in midair, focused on her.

    The fear rose suddenly like a punch rising out of her and erupting into a shrill scream as she tried to move away, escape from those eyes that looked unnatural and malevolent.

    She bit down on her lips but the shrill scream was still vibrating in the air around them. The click of a switch brought warm natural light flooding into the room and illuminating her would-be assant.

    "Jeez Yue Yan , you scared me!" Her voice remained shrill with excess adrenaline coursing through her veins

    "Oh," the exmation was a tepid response to her outburst no matter how she looked at it. Yan Mei looked, really looked into those eyes that still had an amber cast and were looking at her with a level of apathy that was scary.

    "Are you alright?" She asked, genuinely puzzled at Yue Yan''s strange demeanor, but her house guest just watched her for the longest time. Thest time she had osted her when she head just returned from work, they had enjoyed a heart to heart conversation between the two of them but somehow she doubted her intentions were quite genial, she had hand those doubts fro quite a while now

    A smile flickered across her face and was gonna in a matter of minutes, if she hadn''t been looking right at her, she would have missed it. As it was, the expression did nothing to reassure her, in fact, the look had been filled with cruel amusement, so was the reply she received "I''m perfectly fine, happy even"

    That was when Yan Mei realized she was still shaking, her initial fear hadn''t left her at all, somehow it had mounted until the shoes in her hands were vibrating against each other. That was when she noticed that the goosebumps prickling her skin felt like lightning arcs, sensitizing her body and making her hyper-aware of her surroundings so much that her body was tense for flight....or a fight.

    She tried to master what she believed was an irrational response to exhaustion, a minor fright in the dark, and the moods of a depressed house guest. "Had a good day?" Immediately she said it, she regretted it, she saw a smirk swim into Yue Yan''s face, a condescending smirk that made her feel grossly inadequate.

    "The best, I was able to make a lot of things happen, executing a good part of my ns." The reply made her even more foolish because she was aware of the heavy undertones in the room around them, even an idiot wouldn''t miss that.

 Chapter 360 Always knew

    <h4>Chapter 360 Always knew</h4>

    She couldn''t deny that Yue Yan eyed her with a predatory gaze, a look that promised many things, things that made her skin crawl and made her break into a sweat in the air-conditioned room. "Ahhhh that''s good" she blurted out, despising that her voice shook.

    Yue Yan shifted away from the wall and stalked towards her. It was just like an animal stalking prey, Yan Mei felt the shoes slip off her fingers, quickly followed by the bag as she took one quick step backward. "What are you doing?" she asked, hating that her voice was shaky

    "You can''t be that clueless" was the sudden retort.

    Yan Mei tried another tack, "why are you doing this?" she was not just stalling her, she really needed to know

    "Because I can" Yue Yan shrugged in an apathetic move but kept moving forward.

    "Is this a mental health something? Do you want to see a doctor?" The moment she said those words Yan Mei winced, knowing the words would just push Yue Yan into a raging mood.

    Instead of the expected outrage, the words made her pause andugh uproariously, the sound was loud and raucous, grating on her nerves in the room. Yue Yan shook her head after a while, the cruel mockery obvious from even across the room "of course you want to help, of course, if I say yes you would believe me, you want to believe me so bad don''t you human?"

    Yan Mei swallowed and realized her throat was dry and got like a desert under a scorching midday sun. Of course, she knew something was clearly wrong, but she couldn''t deny that she wanted the solution to be something really simple, like a psychotic break brought on by a three-year-longa.

    But even she couldn''t deny it was much more than that, she suddenly felt lost and alone. An acute feeling that had her wondering where everyone was, several scenarios passed through her mind, each one worse than the one that came before it. It wasn''t even an exaggeration, this Yue Yan looked capable of anything, the way she kept calling her ''human'' with a sneer of disgust promised terrible things.

    Yue Yan slowed her stride, stopping just an arm''s length away from her, eyes fixed on her. Those eyes were terrible, even the warm glow of the room didn''t detract from the sadistic nature gleaming there. Yan Mei flinched involuntarily, feeling alone in the big house. "Where is everyone else?"

    "Gone," the tone was t, final.

    "No!" She couldn''t help the gasping sob that erupted out of her, she couldn''t allow herself to believe it even as the grief coated her tongue with a bitter taste and tears prickled her eyes

    "Not dead, just gone" Yue Yan continued, the amusement in her eyes was hard to miss

    "And Lei Zhao ?" Something drove her to ask, somehow she knew he was not part of everyone else

    "Conveniently out of it" Yue Yan replied with another shrug but there was no missing the extremely satisfied look on her face, it was more than a taunt.

    Yan Mei couldn''t help the sudden rush of anger that coursed through her, a strong protective urgeing over her. "What did you do to him, bitch?"

    Yue Yan''s eyebrows quivered with the anger in her voice, her eyes shining with mockery and avarice. "I''m impressed, your first swear word in years, daddy dear would be very proud."

    "Do you know my father?" her reply was automatic

    "Close," was the retort delivered in the same vein

    "What are you nning on doing?"

    "Destroying you of course," the tone was conversational, there was no missing her intent.

    Yan Mei flinched, her body flooded with fresh adrenaline, tensing for flight "Why?"

    "The list is long and you truly deserve it but the best part is; because I can." Yue Yan offered before taking a small step forward, Yan Mei darted to the side, keeping the same distance between them, her speed spurred by pure desperation and fear

    "Why would you do this?" She asked, unable to hide the way her body shook, jerky movements that made her seem disjointed and convulsed. Her anger drained away to be reced by bone-deep exhaustion. "Why would you do this to me, I took you for a sister. What would Lei Zhao think? He''s your friend, please stop"

    "Friend?" Yue Yan stopped, if looks could kill, Yan Mei knew she would be dead already. The girl moved towards hard as she startedughing, sheughed even harder than the first time and a slow change came over her features.

    To Yan Mei , it was as if a canvas was rolled away and a whole different person was revealed. Those amber/yellow eyes remained the same but everything else became more vivid, almost alive in its own way.

    Yue Yan''s height almost doubled, her form lengthening and packed with lean muscle, ws and horns graced her features, finally her lips curved in a smile that exposed very sharp and bone-white teeth.

    Yue Yan walked at her during the metamorphosis, stalking her in a circle until she stood between her and the door, cutting off any illusions of escape. Not that she believed it anyway, she had seen appendages that looked like wings during their standoff and Yan Mei knew that even if she ran for her life, between the wings and her freakishly tall height she wouldn''t get very far at all. The thought was painfully sobering for a person who prided themselves on being strong and surviving, in her mind she already knew there was no surviving this.

    Yue Yan paused when she didn''t get the reaction she expected. Her demon form was alluring and dangerous and people reacted to it in different ways. This close to someone she considered prey and had shown nothing but pure aggression, she expected anger, fear and panic. Not the look of determined anger or that infuriating calm.

    "You''re not surprised" The raspy voice that issued out of that terrible mouth sent chills racing down her spine, it was like gravel and honey.

 Chapter 361 Revenge

    <h4>Chapter 361 Revenge</h4>

    "I had my doubts" Yan Mei admitted calmly, but her body remained tensed, ready for anything

    "Since when?" the voice sounded disappointed and Yan Mei felt an odd satisfaction at having outwitted her on that ground

    "The moment in the kitchen, I thought I sensed demonic energy but it faded away so fast I thought it was me, plus the speed with which you batted that water away." She pointed out as she eyed her

    "So you knew?" The demon continued unable to hide her anger at being found out so easily, it was obvious she had nned a big revealplete with blind hysteria but Yan Mei''s reaction had punctured her ego.

    "I actually thought it was a demon possession, not this," she gestured in front of her

    "It''s such a pity that your father has been protecting you for all this while, if not I would have long destroyed you. That protection was particrly clever, I couldn''t harm you myself but nothing was stopping me from burning your world down around you." She answered viciously, her words aimed at drawing blood

    It took a minute for the words to sink in before she reached the heart-wrenching conclusion "no" she gasped

    "Yes, how did it feel to be thrown in the streets Yan Mei " she taunted

    "No" Yan Mei protested, unable to keep the tears from her eyes this time, her hands coating along her stomach in a move reminiscent of a long time ago

    "And that precious baby, that anguish fed me for years." The creature crowed, there was no mistaking it''s malevolent joy

    "No," Yan Mei shook her head, unable to understand why unwilling to ept the stark truth in her face. She had thought she was beyond this pain, here she was, broken all over again.

    "Is that all you have to say? You should thank daddy dear for your problems, if he had simply taken his demon mate instead of sleeping with a human we wouldn''t be here" the creature taunted, sounding supremely bored.

    "No no no"

    "Look what he made me do" the words were followed with a smirk

    "Yue Yan why?"

    "You''re not exactly bright, are you? I''m not Yue Yan , I''ve never been"

    "But Lei Zhao ...." She never got to finish her sentence.

    Yue Yan...the creature cut in with was surely a bored expression on her face, "was a fool to believe anyone survived that crash, but he wanted to believe it so much that he didn''t even investigate my ims"

    "But you look just like Yue Yan ... Like her" it was the token protest of a mind that was failing to grasp its new reality. Yan Mei knew this but she couldn''t stop the waves of horror ripping through her

    "That''s not even the hard part, you made it all easy by inviting me to your house, so desperate for love that you decided to ept me as your sister." She gloated, inching closer.

    Yan Mei flinched back at those words, cringing over her actions over the past few months "but you saved me so many times, I started to have doubts about you, I believed you changed your mind. I believed you were fighting the demon in you"

    "I''m also the one who put you in danger" came the exnation in a time of voice that implied she must be stupid

    " I know" despite the words, Yan Mei felt stupid, betrayed but the worst part was the guilt, whatever went wrong here, she had invited this creature into their house and their lives. But she also needed to know why "why go through all that if you''re just going to kill me anyway?"

    "I''m a demoness darling, I y with my food," Yue Yan announced as if that was the only reason worth giving and rushed at her, Yan Mei threw up her hands to protect herself and the two of them shed with a force that blistered the air around them with energy.

    They both staggered back but Yan Mei fell further than Yue Yan before they both straightened andunched at each other again.

    It was a show of force, Yue Yan pitched arcs of dark lightning at Yan Mei who danced back as she tried tounch an attack of her own.

    Yan Mei flung her hand forward, sending a bolt of energy at the demoness. It hit her square in the chest but the creature barely stopped beforeunching a counter-attack. Multiple shots that came at her from every direction and threw her three feet in the air before thended with a thud that rattled all her bones.

    Yan Mei quickly rolled to the right to avoid another bolt of energy aimed at her and quickly got to her feet. In just a few minutes she realized there was no way she was going to win on her own. This demoness was very powerful; just like her father and the fact that Yan Mei felt extremely weak and nauseous was not helping her.

    Yan Mei attacked and abandoned that n, and raced through the house in a bid to escape or find Lei Zhao andunch another attack together.

    Even as she flew, she couldn''t shake the feeling that Yue Yan the demoness, whatever it was called, was still toying with her, herding her along like sheep.

    She burst into the kitchen, her eyes frantically searched for something she could use to defend herself. She headed straight for the knife block and her hands closed around a random hilt as she turned to face the creature that casually walked through the door.

    The smile remained the same, but it wasn''t just kicking now, it showed a deep-seated disgust. For the first time, Yan Mei wondered how she had missed it, that hatred simmering all this while.

    She looked around the kitchen for something else, the knife felt unbearably flimsy in her hands; she did this taking care to keep Yue Yan within the field of her vision until something broke her concentration.

    She spied the slumped body from the corners of her eyes and was instinctively rushing towards it before she realized it was Lei Zhao "oh God no" the clutched knife in her hands falling with a tter on the tiles

    He was sprawled on the floor as if he had copsed after a blow to the body but his snoring quickly reassured her he still was alive. Her hands clutching his shirts, pounding on his chest as she tried to shake him awake, fear quickly dispelled by rising anger.

 Chapter 362 Her Babies

    <h4>Chapter 362 Her Babies</h4>

    Lei Zhao was sprawled on the floor as if he had copsed after a blow to the body but his snoring quickly reassured her he still was alive. Her hands clutching his shirts, pounding on his chest as she tried to shake him awake, fear quickly dispelled by rising anger.

    "What did you do to him, you filthy creature?

    "Nice, you''ll have to do better though" thick amusement coated those words

    "What did you do?" She wailed, her anger joined by fear

    "A little something to keep him out of the way"

    "If you''ve hurt him I''ll..."

    "Nothing, you''re not in a position to make threats"

    Yan Mei stood up from the floor, an ominous aura emanating from her. She crossed her arms in front of her chest as she raised her chin, giving the demoness a condescending look. Seeing a sinister smile on her face, the demonessughed as Yan Mei''s eyes turned red, her veins marred on her face.

    A powerful gust of wind blew in the room, making the lights flicker on and off. The hairs on the demoness''s body started to stand in attention. With annoyance coursing through Yan Mei''s body, the current in the light exploded, the ss shards falling on them and on the floor.

    With a mockingugh, the demoness looked at Yan Mei who was now in her demon form. Her voice was heard echoing inside the room, asserting her dominance.

    "You didn''t let me finish talking" she trailed off, her smirk disappearing from her face, her eyebrow arching up to intimidate them. "I will bury you with him if he dies."

    The demoness chuckled, "Such arrogance, you''re just like your father. Too bad he can''t help you now. He can barely help himself and he is not here to stop me." The creature informed Yan Mei with glee.

    "And oh, apart from your father. I''m the strongest in the underworld, do you think a mere hybrid child like you can defeat me? I have brought armies onto their feet with just a flicker of my hand. So just don''t.... " The demoness added.

    "Why are you doing this?" Yan Mei asked again, even though she knew she wasn''t going to receive an answer.

    "Because you and your mother stole a life that was mine, I''m only taking it back"

    "No no no" she wailed. Willing Lei Zhao to get up from his unnatural sleep but she knew how hopeless that wish was.

    "Say goodbye Yan Mei ," the voice that was suddenlying from right in front of her taunted before massive hands curled around her throat, lifted her off the ground, and started to steadily choke the breath out of her.

    The hands tightened around her neck until dark dots floated in her vision, she tried to kick her but her hands and iling legs bounced off a skin that felt like it was more iron than flesh. Yan Mei felt powerless for the first since her demon powers awakened and she hated it. This demoness was too powerful for her to handle.

    Heavy despair fell over her as the life slowly leached out of her, she didn''t even have enough breath to scream, just her body iling weakly as she realized that this was the day she would die.

    Two things happened, Yue Yan whispered a haunted and angry "no!"

    A sound Yan Mei heard because she was so close before the hands around her loosened just a little, allowing her to breathe. Her senses returned slowly, her eyesight cleared enough for her to see clearly.

    Yue Yan was ring at her, a look of pure hatred that burned the air between them. The next thing that happened was that she heard a body stirring behind her and a weak voice calling "Yan Mei "

    Lei Zhao was awake, she was no longer alone.

    *********

    There were no names in the underworld, no names you wanted to give anyone anyway, names had too much power. Plus she rather quite loved being called Yue Yan , and the way the quivering prey in front of her stumbled over what to call her when Yue Yan would do in a pinch.

    Prey, that was all she was now. At a point she had expected more from her, considering whom her father was but human nature remained the same, disappointing at every turn.

    She had herded her into the kitchen so that she could witness thest drop of hope in her extinguishment. Everything had been going fine until she heard it, faint but unmistakable, two of them.

    Yue Yan felt her rage explode, she had squeezed her hands tighter around Yan Mei''s neck. Watching her pathetic attempts to fight back, it would take more than the weak iling of a dying creature to wound her.

    That was when she heard it, one heartbeat, then another that echoed its beat, small pattern barely distinct. She chanted softly and reality rippled, she calmly walked through the thin fabric into another dimension.

    She tightened her hand around her neck, barely feeling the weak kicks aimed at her belly. "This is the best thing you''ve ever done for me, I killed your baby the first time, and now I''m making sure you''ll never be a mother, ever again! You die here and your disgusting line dies with you! Your babies die with you here"

    Her hands tightened, slowly but surely as herughter echoed in the space around them, her joyplete as Yan Mei''s struggles got weaker by the second, her eyes swallowed up in mindless panic while her hand tried to shield the babies in her womb.

    Yue Yan knew she couldn''t let these babies live. They will be too powerful for even her to handle. The power they hold was nothing she has ever seen before. No wonder, Yan Mei couldn''t fight against her. It wasn''t because she was a weak hybrid, it was because of her babies feeding on her demon powers and energy.

    Then everything exploded in a thousand shades of livid color before she blocked out, unable to hold on any longer

 Chapter 363 His return

    <h4>Chapter 363 His return</h4>

    He was surrounded by a cloud of ambivalence and power, a fast stream that surged into him and shielded him from the outside world all at once. Inside that cloud, he had a measure of peace.

    As much as someone like him could hope to get because nothing mattered here. Not love or hate. All his worries and hopes evaporated. Inside the cloud was nothing, no right or wrong, just power.

    Then he felt it, a mind-numbing level of panic quickly followed by fear, he felt the anger and the deep level of despair.

    He knew the feelings were not his own, but they spurred a strong protective urge in him but he was loath to wake up. Living was nothingpared to the power he was consuming now, nothing held a lure to the peace he finally had.

    The cloud smothered those strange emotions as he settled back into its embrace. That was when the whisper came, "please" was the only word but it was overflowing with anger, fear, and despair so strong his heart wrenched. He didn''t know when his eyes sprang open, the cloud of light enveloping him exploding in a supernova to rival the sun.

    Lucifer awoke, ready to do battle, he traced the pull to his soul and stepped into a teau, a pocket dimension that only contained two people.

    Without thinking he knew the one who had spoken to him, with a wave of his hand, he summoned the power to his hand and struck.

    ******

    She had felt it, all of the supernatural realm had felt it. The energy had crashed through the entire universe even as it rippled the fabric of time.

    She had felt that wave of power, pure consuming power and it had unleashed something in her, a hunger that rivalled the fear that was sweeping her body.

    She didn''t know what had brought him back from the edge of the abyss but she wasn''t exactly surprised to feel his awakening; that was the next thing that could go wrong in a long line of others.

    The first sign that things were falling apart was the nk stare Yan Mei had given her when she transformed into her demon form. Something that usually elicited tears and fear had only drawn an eye twitch for her foe, then she had actually used dark magic to counter her attacks.

    They had spared and for a while Yan Mei had kept up with her, going as far asnding one lucky blow that would have destroyed her if her magic had been pure, untainted by her human nature.

    Then Lei Zhao had woken up, much too fast and called the name of his wife. At that point she had panicked and escaped into the pocket dimension to score the tatters of her victory but he was here, and his anger was like a hot brand on her skin, the only thing hotter was her passion.

    Without even a word of acknowledgement, he threw a spell at her. A spell aimed at utter destruction, she had dodged it and the de of energy dispelled with minimum damage to the dimension.

    "My Lord Lucifer" her words were soft, customary but her stance promised battle, there was only one reason why he was there right now, awake.

    She silently cursed her hubris.

    "It had to be you" he didn''t sound surprised, in fact his voice was nk, the only thing that bled through was a faint disappointment and that annoyed her more than anything. To him, she ranked so low on his attention that he would rather be equated with a vaguely annoying stranger.

    "You know why" her voice was harsh,den with all the emotions she hadn''t let herself give voice to, chief among them was hatred, followed closely by jealousy.

    "We had a deal" he returned calmly

    "Did you think I wouldn''t seize the opportunity that presented itself and destroyed her?" He had to know she would try.

    "I understand giving in to temptation, but I am here now, give her to me" he prompted, sure that she would mindlessly obey him in this.

    "You speak as if I don''t have pride, I have loved you all my days but I am also a proud demoness, she dies here." She swore and received her first reaction from him

    "You don''t want to provoke me!" He roared, the very air vibrating with his ire.

    "No! You don''t want to provoke me, she is a living breathing insult, a constant reminder of how our future was torn apart for a mere human!" She screamed right back, her chest heaving with the force of her desires

    "We had a deal, she is off limits" he stayed again, as if that would change something. He knew what he had to say to make this all go away but he wouldn''t lie, he was too proud to lie. That attribute lured her to him but remained the one that cut her endlessly, making her suffer but no more

    "Not anymore but why do you care, where were you when I was destroying her life and making her world burn, when I intervened and made her child stillborn and turned her womb into a graveyard, where were you, doting father!" She fired at him, hoping to drive a reaction from him.

    "I''m here now"

    "Toote, any second now the anchors to her soul will shatter taking the life of her babies too."

    "Give her to me now and all will be forgiven and forgotten, I will even give you more power in hell, I will make you my queen."

    She tasted the words but she remained unsatisfied, at a point she would have dly submitted, happily acquiesce to his superior power. But the hunger in her desired more now, nothing less than the death of Yan Mei , the death of the entire line would do for her. "While she remains alive to spoil my delight in it? No"

    "You leave me no choice", he warned, his voice a vicious threat.

 Chapter 364 The strongest vrs The evilest

    <h4>Chapter 364 The strongest vrs The evilest</h4>

    "So be it." She challenged and flung the body away from her but none of them took their eyes off each other, eyes riveted on every limb, anticipating every move.

    She knew he had woken up too early and was not at his true strength while she was powered by a hatred so strong she could taste it. She fired the first volley, she summoned her powers, the energy taking on a red cast before she sted him.

    He tore it apart with a belligerent wave of his hand but it cost him, she knew what it cost him, he was suddenly paler than before and she knew the sheen on his skin wasn''t just because of his ethereal beauty.

    Then he fired back, the color of his power was white, biting and hungry, flickering in the air for a moment as if tasting its target before it was released.

    She darted behind Yan Mei''s body, using her as a shield. Just as she expected, the unconscious body deflected the shot, scattering that power in a show of harsh light but the dimension did not escape its wrath, it ate at it, a darkness that was all consuming.

    You would kill me for her, and I have loved you all my life." Her words were a statement of fact, the evidence in the copsing dimension between them

    She is the world to me, nothing in heaven, earth or hell surpasses her" he admitted, stoic, not even making an attempt to spare her feelings anymore.

    The surge of rage had her seeing red, she could see it now, long as she was alive, the Lord of hell would never see her, would never pay her attention, would never truly ept her.

    She had imed to love him earlier, she still did but she had also said she was proud. That pride warred with love and her heart broke.

    Her hands wrapped around that delicate body though already littered with bruises. She was determined to see this through, to enjoy it if this was thest thing she did.

    ********

    He''d sensed her intentions and for the first time in his entire existence, he knew fear. He watched those hands wrap around his daughters throat while her assant looked him dead in the eyes with a suicidal determination. It was only suicidal for her to believe that anything less than a thousand years of torture awaited her but only after he stripped her of all her powers first.

    But he never got to make that decision, the moment she had telegraphed her wicked intent a strange power had filled him, burned through him and headed straight for her. Thest thing he saw was her satisfied smirk, before it devolved into pain and panic.

    It had destroyed herpletely and somehow without even singeing Yan Mei , he shed to her side and caught the body before it hit the floor. Although her assant was destroyed, she remained untouched by the force of the power he had wielded but such was the strength of the protection on her.

    The protection he had cast at birth on her. He cradled her, murmuring soft words of reassurance as he walked from that crumbling dimension into the real world.

    ********

    Her eyes fluttered, but Yan Mei kept them closed. The truth was that she was afraid, in death she could finally allow herself to acknowledge that truth. If she was in heaven or hell, she didn''t want to know yet.

    "Wake up my precious child, you''re still alive."

    That voice! Yan Mei''s eyes snapped wide open and she saw her father crouched in front of her, while she was tucked into the arms of her husband who was sitting on the kitchen floor, his hands were like thick bands anchoring her but she still had to ask. "Dad? Am I dead?"

    "No dear, not yet. I''m sorry that I took so long toe to save my baby" her father replied, apologizing in his swirling eyes.

    It was something to know she was the daughter of Lucifer, the Lord of hell but she had made her peace with that a long time ago. "My baby?!" She gasped, hit with sudden thought as her hands traveling to cup her t stomach

    "They are both fine" her father informed her.

    "They?" Her confusion apparent, she believeshe had said ''both''

    "You are pregnant with twins but that is not the only surprise here. Your husbandes from a family of white witches even though he, himself doesn''t have that power and they have powerful white magic, something that the demons hate and now your babies have both" her father informed her softly

    "Both? But how?" this came from Lei Zhao who was taking the events of the night in an unruffled stride, his helplessness still rankled but Yan Mei was okay and so were their children and that was all that really mattered

    ''The boy has both your dark powers and his father''s and the girl has her father''s." The devil answered his daughter, his eyes refusing to leave her even for a minute.

    "Won''t they hurt her and each other?" His worry was apparent.

    "No, I''ve taken care of it, I''ve sealed their powers until they are 18 when they can learn a bit more control" he informed them

    "Thank you Dad" a small smile curved her lips

    "It''s the smallest thing I can do, I almost lost my baby today." His voice was smothered in regret and Yan Mei hated that, before she could stay a word, Lei Zhao beat her to it.

    "You came in time to save her, I was here and I couldn''t do anything."

    "No, you tried. I heard you calling me, it gave me the hope to keep holding on." Yan Mei confessed, unwilling to allow the two of them to continue the me game they insisted on ying.

    They both prided themselves on being all powerful and being able to protect the people they loved, and they took all failures in that aspect very personally. Thankfully the both of them refrained from saying a word after her soft reprimand, she could still see that guilt and apology in their eyes but only time would take care of that. She was thankful to be alive and beyond ecstatic for the babies she carried, and was surrounded by her loved ones, anticipating her future pleased to have survived her recent past.

    Lei Zhao tightened his hands around her without a word as he rocked her softly, she knew he was going to hover and be overprotective for the longest time but she was okay with that. He could hold her forever if he wanted.

 Chapter 365 A fatherâ€™s forgiveness

    <h4>Chapter 365 A father¡¯s forgiveness</h4>

    Ying Sheng heard the doorbell ring but stalled in her backyard, hoping that Liam, her boyfriend, would get the door and deal with whoever was at the door.

    The ringing persisted then cut off abruptly, she breathed a sigh of relief and allowed herself to go back to enjoying the bees visiting her flowers. All summer long she had jumped from the euphoria of having her flowers blooming to watching the bees and butterflies visit.

    It may seemmonce but it gave her a sense of creation, there was something to be said for having your flowers blooming beautiful.

    Footsteps headed towards her paused her reverie, the door opened to reveal her boyfriend, Liam as he stepped into their lush backyard.

    "Over here," she called and his eyes darted towards her.

    She smiled up at him from her spot in the grass and he smiled back, a crooked smile that revealed him more handsome and drove a pang straight through her heart.

    "Hello gorgeous"

    "Hello, you" her voice suddenly breathy and low as he closed in to give her a kiss that ended too soon.

    "You have a visitor," he told her after a while, his hands tugging her hair gently.

    "You mean a package?" She teased him

    "I''m sorry babe, your dad is here." The words were innocent enough but the preceding apology did nothing to soften the blow.

    Ying Sheng stiffened before slowly allowing herself to rx into her boyfriend''s embrace. She didn''t even know her father knew her current location, not with them busy with their own lives.

    Growing up her parents had never been around and had been too busy to "partake in such mundanities with their offspring" as her mother had so scathingly phrased it on the day she had challenged them, fought, and finally moved out.

    She thought that would have been the end, barely seven monthster and her father was at the door. She was curious enough to go and meet him but she wondered if that curiosity was not motivated by her need for her parents'' love.

    "Should I bring him down here?"Liam asked, Ying Sheng shook her head immediately, she didn''t want him in this area of her life.

    "No, I''ll meet him in the living room" she replied softly

    "I Love you. If you need me I will be close by, so just call me." he struggled to say something else but finally settled for a kiss on her forehead.

    "Thanks, babe" she replied easily, mentally girding herself for the encounter ahead.

    She walked into the room with a touch of trepidation and feeling like a little child about to get a scolding. The image of her father seated gingerly in the living room was one that was going to live with her forever.

    He hadn''t noticed her, and at that moment the well-dressed man sitting there was the picture of despair, he slumped imperceptibly, something her image-conscious parents would never allow normally and his eyes trailed from one part of the room with eyes that saw but didn''t actually see.

    "Hi Dad," at her words he straightened quickly until he turned back into that familiar father figure of her childhood, he stood until she sat down before settling back into his seat

    "Hello Ying Sheng, it''s been a while. I see you''ve done well for yourself" he stated gesturing vaguely around them.

    Ying Sheng nodded absently before challenging him, "Dad why are you here?"

    The question seemed to freeze him, suddenly the facade of a man in control melted away until what remained was the somber figure she had glimpsed when she came in "I came to tell you that I''m sorry"

    Ying Sheng jolted to her feet with a shout "you''re what?"

    "Please have a seat, Ying Sheng , I know I don''t deserve for you to hear me out but please, for thest time." If his earlier words were a shock, this did not soften the blow.

    "I''m just shocked" Ying Sheng mumbled as she settled back into her seat feeling oddly chastised

    "I''m still going through the shock myself, your mom and I had a divorce." The moment he came back from his punishment, his family had a meeting and with the help of his sister, he was able to convince them to grant him a divorce. But that too came with a price, a price he happily agreed to pay.

    He was stripped of his position as the face of the family and as the CEO of the family business. He was now an outcast of the Ying family. In order to save his mistress and their unborn baby he had given up his rights and family name away. Now he was just an ordinary man who is fighting for the love of his daughter. A daughter he had mercilessly broken due to his own shorings.

    Somehow, Ying Sheng couldn''t help her reaction, "What did you do, scratch your armpit in public and ruin her poise?" She asked with a rude scoff then suddenly cringed

    Her father didn''t notice, he greeted her actions with a low chuckle "we deserved that, I deserved that"

    "I''m sorry Dad" Ying Sheng demurred, appalled at her bitter tone and attitude. Such snide remarks were the premise of her mother, she wouldn''t sink so low.

    He nodded curtly, "This is hard knowing that I deserve whatever you say right now, no matter how disrespectful but I came to ask for your forgiveness"

    "But why did you and Mom divorce? You were perfect together"

    "Were we? I don''t think so, I think I am have lost my way at some point, I''m not an angel myself but I allowed your mom to take over our lives and here we are." hemented softly, his eyes focused on hers

    "What really happened, why are you two divorced" It seemed inconceivable

    "Well...after sitting down and sorting out our differences, we decided to go on our separate ways. She has been cheating on me and I...you know" he blurted without preamble.

    "Oh, Dad!"

    He continued as if she hadn''t said a word, "I know I may not present myself as the best father but I''m not that heartless to trap her in her marriage she hates."

    "But how did you find out"

    "Your younger brother is the son of her lover and she threw that in my face like it was my own shoring too."

    "I''m so sorry Dad"

    He shook his head again with a tired sigh, suddenly she could see the tired lines all over his face and the despair he couldn''t quite hide painting his words "No my dear, I''m the one who should be saying that I''m the one who failed to see the perfect daughter in front of me. I''m the one who allowed your mother to put a distance between us, I''m also the father who was never there for his own child. I let you to fend for yourself all these months"

    "I have a good life here." And she felt the need to mention that

    "I''m aware and I''m sorry that I was not the one to give it to you, I just wish that you will let me be a part of the rest of your life. But if you don''t I understand, I''ve waited too long I guess" he replied before he got to his feet and headed for the door

    For the first time in her life, she saw her father not as one of her tormentors or a prison warden but as another human being with his own shorings and failures.

    The point was that he owned up to those failures and was willing to try. That was all she had wanted all her life, someone, willing to try for her.

    Ying Sheng scrambled after him, "Dad wait," he turned around and for the first time in a long time she gave in to the little girl moring in her heart and hugged her father, his arms tightened around her too.

    "I forgive you Dad and I really want you to be a part of my life going forward."

    "I''ll be there" he solemnly promised

    "You don''t need to make any promises" she returned

    He sighed again as he looked at her, "you deserve everything, it''s such a pity that it''s taken me so long to see that you are the best thing I''ve ever done with my life."

    "Oh Dad"

    "I love you Ying bear"

    "I love you too Daddy"

 Chapter 366 Her happily ever after

    <h4>Chapter 366 Her happily ever after</h4>

    They''re going to love you" Liam assured her but there was no aying her nerves

    Ying Sheng nodded with a simple, "sure" that revealed her unbelief

    "I''ve never lied to you" he returned with a soft smile

    "I know, I''m just worried"

    "Why are you so worried?"

    "They are your parents and I want to make a good impression." Liam smiled wider at her deration and just shook his head before turning the car into the driveway.

    The first view of the automatic gates opening up to reveal a mansion that had her gasping out loud.

    "Liam," she called out in shock

    "I know it''s a bit much but I hope you don''t mind" was his reply as if he was apologizing for the house.

    She got out of the car and turned circles in her confusion trying to take it all in at once. Liam caught her hand as they walked up the pathway, past the fountain, thendscape dotted with perfectly cut bushes and awn that stretched into the distance.

    "Liam"

    "I know it''s a bit much"

    "That''s an understatement, you should have said something,"

    "And have you more worried?" He retorted gently with eyebrows raised

    Ying Sheng never had time to retort before the door in front of them opened wide and a blur tackled Liam to the ground, she gaped at the two people on the floor before looking up to find a beautiful woman looking out of the door in fond exasperation at the two.

    "Hello Ying Sheng! Nice to meet you again" Liam''s mother said excitedly as she pulled Ying Sheng for a hug.

    "How are you?"

    Ying Sheng smiled and nodded, "I''m fine¡­"

    She paused as she saw a man who looked exactly like Liam. Mrs Xiao followed her gaze.

    "Oh that''s Lucas, Liam''s twin brother" she gestured at the two wrestling I''m the vestibule casually

    Ying Sheng reeled, "he''s a twin?"

    "Liam didn''t tell you anything did he?" The older woman asked with soft concern in her eyes

    Ying Sheng shook her head vigorously, pitching her voice above the din of two grappling boys, " I don''t think that would have helped much but I''d have loved to not look so shocked"

    "Just like him," Mrs. Xiao sighed before waving her in e and meet my husband "

    "What about..." She gestured at the two men still grappling on the floor

    "They''ll find their way in, eventually"

    Ying Sheng nodded curtly and followed the older woman into the house.

    "Hello" she greeted an older man who bore a strong resemnce to Liam, except with silver hairs at his temples and moreugh lines

    "Honey this is Ying Sheng , Liam''s girlfriend" Mrs. Xiao introduced them

    "So Liam finally came to visit, it''s nice to have you bring him home. I thought he hasn''t been able to win you yet. I was about to n his marriage" he replied jocrly

    Don''t be rude" Mrs. Xiao jostled her husband with a long-suffering sigh

    "You know I''m right"

    "Hush you" Mrs. Xiao jostled her husband again as the boys walked in

    "Hey Dad"

    "How''s my favorite software developer?" Liam''s father eximed with a wide smile. "How''re the updates going on your game"

    Ying Sheng nched at those words, she tried to get her expression under control but Mrs. Xiao caught a look at her face.

    "Liam, you didn''t tell Ying Sheng about your family, I can understand you waiting to have this conversation"

    "I can''t" Liam''s brother piped in

    "Hush you" Mrs. Xiao red at him before pinning her eldest son with a re, "she''s been with you for six months, how do you not tell her these things?"

    "I''m sorry?"

    "So she doesn''t know you created Battle Mage: Songs and Spells." His twin asked, looking between the two of them

    Liam blushed hotly as he said "No"

    Mrs. Xiao groaned, "how much had my son told you?"

    "Virtually nothing" Ying Sheng felt like sinking into the ground after admitting that. She couldn''t believe that he was the developer of her favorite game. All this while she thought he was just an employee at thepany that develops her favorite game but he is the owner and developer?! Ying Sheng turned to Liam and red at him. Her eyes promising his punishment.

    "I''m telling all your secrets today" she replied with a re aimed at her boyfriend

    "Mom"

    "You should have done this if you wanted to avoid this" Mrs. Xiao replied airily before tucking Ying Sheng''s hand into hers and walking father into their beautiful home.

    The rest of the day passed in cheerful camaraderie, it wasn''t until they were on the way home after a fun day followed by early dinner she recalled how nervous she had been on arriving, she couldn''t wait toe to visit again.

    ***************

    The doorbell chimed again as someone walked into the store behind her, Ying Sheng red at the barely moving line and wondered how long before she would get a shot of coffee into her system. She had thought that getting a cup of coffee on the road had been the best idea when she had gotten into the car without this morning, now she was not so sure.

    Absently she wondered if she should just get a muffin here and her coffee in a drive-thru, it would mean something that tasted like crap but what she really needed was a jolt of caffeine, not gourmet coffee. Decision made she backed off the line and immediately crashed into someone behind her, spilling water on their jacket

    "Oh my God, I''m so sorry."

    The person she had knocked into replied as she frantically tried to grab tissues from her handbag, ", It''s alright. No harm was done...Ying Sheng ?"

    Ying Sheng looked up at the person she had jostled and received a shock of her own, Han Xi?"

    The towering stranger in front of her transformed into a familiar smiling face with eyes she could have recognized in her dreams. At a point in her life, she had entertained a few terrible memories caused by him. Her unrequited love of some ten months back just stood there smiling at him as he fumbled to cover his water bottle.

    "It''s good to see you. You''re looking good" heplimented with an even wider smile

    "I''m good, thanks, I fancy meeting you here." She returned with a hard-won smile. It was strange to actually meet him since it had been such a feat to manage when they were together, that had been the main reason their rtionship had copsed, Han Xi was fond of making ns and not showing up or agreeing to go somewhere with her and canceling those nsst minute. She had spent many a night crying herself to sleep in the past, it was almost a miracle that his presence didn''t even have a twinge of an effect on her.

    "I live around here," Han Xi admitted sheepishly, he was aware of the undertones between them

    Oh, wow nice" Ying Sheng floundered

    At her reaction, his eyes shuttered, thest of his smiles melting away. "Ying Sheng, I want to apologize"

    "Oh" her voice was tinged with confusion and surprise

    "I was an idiot and I shouldn''t have done the things I did. I don''t even have an excuse" he admitted softly

    "Where is thising from?" Ying Sheng queried, the Han Xi she knew was unapologetic to the core. She looked around them tone sure they didn''t have a hidden audience before she turned back to look at him

    "I''ve grown up and realized being mean is not a flex" he admitted with a sad smile that spoke volumes

    "That should do it" Ying Sheng nodded sagely

    He smirked at that "I want you to forgive me, I hope you can"

    "Han Xi , I don''t have any hard feelings about the past, in fact, I''ve forgotten all about it until I met you here today." She pointed out with a smile of her own

    Her words drove the lingering smile in his eyes off. He paused for one short moment with a faraway look in his eyes before returning to the moment with a soft plea. "I don''t want meeting me to bring bad memories either"

    Ying Sheng nodded at him. "I forgive you, from the bottom of my heart"

    "That''s generous" he replied just a tad skeptical

    "I can afford to be, I met my current boyfriend on one of those dates you canceled" she replied

    Han Xi winced

    She continued as if she did not see his reaction, "and I''ve long since moved on because if I never knew you I wouldn''t have been sitting in that ce waiting for you to show up and I don''t even want to think about my life without him in it."

    "Well, you do have that look" he replied as he took a long look at her

    Ying Sheng couldn''t help her smile, she knew the look he was talking about, she saw it in her eyes every day. "Yes I love him, and he loves me too and I''m happy with my life now. So I forgive you,Han Xi , I hope you have a nice life"

    "Yeah you too" he nodded

    Umm, I gotta go and I hope you have a nice day" she answered, as she hiked her bag up and turned to walk out of the coffee shop

    "Not waiting for your coffee? Don''t tell me I''m running you off" he teased with a smile

    "It''s taking too long" she gestured at the line that had remained stationary for a while, " I don''t think I will be getting it here"

    He chuckled at that "it was really nice meeting you Ying Sheng , I''m very happy to get that off my mind and fear the air. Being forgiven for being a jackass is everything"

    "Happy to be able to do that. See you around Han Xi " she offered even if she was sure their paths would likely never cross again. This chance encounter had been a one in million chance of happening in the first ce.

    "Sure" he nodded and waved her goodbye

    She waved at him one more time and walked out of the door, through the clear ss, Han Xi watched her walk all the way to someone who was sitting patiently in the parking lot. The man in the car got out before she was halfway there and met her with a kiss, her smallugh filtered through the wind to him and he couldn''t help the feeling of nostalgia as he watched the two of them standing in each other''s arms in the afternoon sun.

    He wondered if he had been a better man, could he have been a part of her story, especially this chapter. The thought niggled him insistently as they got into the car and drove away and he turned back to the hellish line that had not moved a single inch

 Chapter 367 Answers

    <h4>Chapter 367 Answers</h4>

    Lei Zhao drove into the circr driveway at his parent''s mansion, the familiar grounds doing little to calm the tenseness between his shoulder des, the events of the past two days and the things revealed left him just a little jumpy.

    He felt twitchy as if he couldn''t see it but danger still lurked at every corner. He still felt uneasy about bringing Yan Mei with him here, iming that she needed to stay at home and rest, and also have private time to spend with her father who dropped in now and then.

    Leaving her at home would have made him feel less raw and better able to handle the feelings of protectiveness she aroused in him nowadays that made him feel jittery and very confused.

    Hisst argument had been that her father was there and could take care of any threat both physical and supernatural.

    Yes, his father-inw was the Devil, yes, the very one and it still blew his mind if he allowed himself to think about it. Yan Mei had tantly refused to stay home, something that both pleased and annoyed him endlessly

    Lei Zhao parked the car and strode straight to the other side of the car to help her out. Looking at her, no one would see the effect of the battle for her life a few days ago on her.

    But he knew where to look, the shadows in her eyes were fleeting but fresh, without a word he strode arm in arm with her to the house, he debated if they should head to his mother''s greenhouse or go through the house and decidedst minute that he wanted the sense of ease seeing his old home would give him.

    The Zhao mansion was stately and elegant but somehow managed to still have the cozy sense of home, the scent of gardenias teased his senses as he walked through the door, siphoning away some of his tension.

    The butler, yes he had grown up with a family butler, a tall balding man named Robert greeted him with a wide smile and a brief hug to both him and Yan Mei before pointing them in the direction of the kitchen.

    He knew his mother was not there but there was no way he was going to get out of greeting Ms. Smithers.

    The housekeeper had been here for most of his teenage years and had been like a mother to him. He had barely crossed the threshold of the kitchen doorway when he was enveloped in a warm hug.

    Lei Zhao smiled down at his third favorite person in the world with a wide smile of his own.

    "Your mother''s having her breakfast in the greenhouse and your father has gone putting." The housekeeper informed him as she searched his eyes.

    Lei Zhao deflected her budding concern with a smile "Thank you, Ms. Smithers"

    "Call me Ru you silly boy," she countered with a smile of her own.

    "You know I love you Ms. Smithers" he teased lightly.

    She shooed him away with one fluttering hand and a loud huff but she couldn''t hide her smile either "go on and see your mother thene back, I have something for the both of you."

    Ms. Smithers turned to Yan Mei and gave her a warm hug too, no words were spoken but the love between them was almost tangible.

    It soothed something in him to have all the people he loved in one safe ce around him.

    Lei Zhao nodded through another hug, greeted all the other people bustling in the room before he slipped out with Yan Mei in tow and headed for the greenhouse.

    This close, a small bit of impatience was creeping in, making him want to go faster.

    The scent of rich earth and healthy nts greeted him before he cleared the door, when he opened the door the scent tripled, that in conjunction with the sight of his mother sitting calmly with a book in herp and a faraway look in her eyes, thest of his tension drained away.

    He had the oddest urge to walk up to her,y her head in herp and sleep off, he wanted to surround himself with the kind of love only she should give.

    Yan Mei must have sensed it too, she squeezed his arm and rested his hand and rested her head on his arm and didn''t say a word as he struggled to get a hold of the many emotions running through him.

    In the time he stood just inside the door watching, she hade back from whatever thought was upying her mind and was looking at them.

    She beckoned them over and he walked into her embrace. "Mother"

    "My baby" she greeted him with a kiss on his cheek

    "Mom" Ying Sheng greeted and got a hug of her own

    "Darling"

    "I have so much to tell you" he replied and she nodded emphatically

    "I know" she answered softly

    "You always know" the words were spoken without censure, just a statement of fact.

    Turning to Yan Mei You, Lei Xiao Tong said, "you look so tired darling, let me hold you."

    As if those were the magic words, his wife folded into his mother''s embrace with a small sob, and they held each other for one solemn moment before moving apart.

    "Tell me everything." She ordered as they all sat down.

    He relived it all in a brief rush, a harmless mistake that grew into a malevolent evil that almost destroyed everything he held dear. He couldn''t help the full-body shudder that rippled through his body.

    They didn''t say anything, both his mother and his wife just waited for him to start talking but their hands squeezed him in a show of love, which gave him the strength to start.

    He told her everything, from the moment he had received that fateful call to the time when the brutal revtions of the truth hit him.

    He hadn''t thought about it but he had lived through it with Yan Mei , he hadn''t thought he needed someone to talk about it to. The two of them were too drunk on surviving to even revisit it but he didn''t know how much he had needed to pour out his heart to someone until now.

 Chapter 368 Answers

    <h4>Chapter 368 Answers</h4>

    Yan Mei spilled her parts of the story, parts he was no privy to but the retelling had more depth than what she had exined to him before. This time she truly unburdened herself and it was his turn to hold her hand and offer silent support and strength.

    His mother listened silently, her eyes having that curious quality of being lost in thought but also perfectly grounded in the moment.

    When he told her about being a white witch and meeting the Devil and the children they would have and their peculiar situation, she betrayed no emotion, she waited until he was done,pletely drained.

    "I am sorry" those were her first words

    "For what mother?" Lei Zhao was confused

    "For not protecting you better" she replied summarily, her eyes stark

    "It''s not your fault at all, it''s more mine than anything. I caused this...." Yan Mei argued

    But she cut her off with a curt shake of her head, "every mother does, no matter what, you''ll find out soon enough yourself. I had my intuition running about that girl but I thought she was a threat to your happiness and marriage, not your life. I should have known better."

    "Mom, what are you saying."

    "I''m a practicing witch my dear and I should have taken more care of my family" Yan Mei didn''t react but even though he suspected, he couldn''t hold back his reaction.

    "I know that''s your family line but I didn''t think, I mean there was no sign..." Lei Zhao trailed off and tried again "howe I never saw anything"

    His mother replied with an arched eyebrow that made him feel very foolish, but her next words spoke of so much pain, "it''s done me very little good no matter how much I tried, I''ve lost one child and almost lost another"

    "You know that''s not true, it''s not your fault" he countered this time

    "Maybe but, having power means having responsibilities and with those responsibilitieses guilt."

    "Mother"

    She continued as he hadn''t said a word "it''s our family''s responsibility to protect people from demons and demonic influences and I couldn''t save my own family."

    "Don''t do that, we are here, we survived" Yan Mei cut in with a soft reprimand.

    "I know darling but my heart"

    "I miss him too" Lei Zhao knew she was regretting more profoundly the son she couldn''t save, the empty casket filled with crash debris they had buried

    She nodded at him before assuming a more businesslike mien "we are descended from the original witch herself Hecate. There are many families but we are the head family tasked with policing ourselves and the supernatural world. We protect people from demons, send demons back to hell and destroy their influences or theirpulsion, which can be very difficult"

    Then she scoffed at herself, "demons have gotten better at hiding themselves and I guess I missed her."

    "We were all fooled but we survived" Yan Mei countered

    "Thank you but I hope you realize that you can''t stay here anymore, Your children, they are one of a kind and that energy surge the other day is going to draw every type of power even if it is just to satisfy their curiosity."

    "We can handle that, we can''t just uproot our life here and run like we are scared of them before we''ve even met them." Lei Zhao deflected casually

    But his mother was having nothing of that "think about it, look at your wife, she''s battle-weary"

    Lei Zhao turned to see a look of guilt on her face as she mumbled "I''m sorry"

    "No, I''m sorry for being stupid. You''re my number one priority, not my ego. I''ll start making ns." He soothed her, thoroughly chastened.

    "Even the family would be curious" Lei Xiao Tong cut in with an introspective look

    "You don''t mean your family," he asked sharply

    She waves him back casually as she cuts in, "unfortunately yes, but you must understand that this has never happened before and they will want to get to the bottom of it. I cannot guarantee that a belief of a lifetime will change just because it''s my own family. Even if it is for your safety child, even I can feel the enormous power brewing in you right now, you don''t want to do this on the run from them and I will do my best to make sure you don''t." It was a promise of love and Yan Mei took it with a teary smile.

    The look on her face at that moment struck him as familiar, she was floundering but she would continue being strong until it nearly broke her

    "You should tell me these things" he groused

    "I did want to..."

    "Disturb me? You are my life. We need to have a long talk about what that means" Yan Mei blushed at those words

    His motherughed and got off her seat, seems like this conversation is over

    "Thank you for everything" Yan wthanked her with a smile

    "No, thank you for allowing me to love you" Lei Xiao Tong countered

    The trio walked back into the house through the family gallery and Yan Mei who hadn''t had a tour of this part for this house paused at every picture.

    Yan Mei froze in front of one of them and pointed at something. "Who is that?"

    Lei Xiao Tong froze, a look of panic paired with irredeemable heartbreak red in her eyes. "That''s my son, that''s the one that died in the ident with the real Yue Yan"

    "She doesn''t know, she''s never seen him before today" Lei Zhao jumped in trying to salvage the situation

    "It''s alright, it seems like today is a day for revtions" his mother countered in a tight voice

    "But he''s not dead" Yan Mei replied

    There was a moment of shocked silence before his mother screamed "What!"

    "Yan Mei !" He couldn''t stop himself

    "I know him, he works for me and my father, he''s worked for me for the past two years but he retired recently after getting hurt in an assignment for my father . He was one of my security guards and he preferred protecting from the shadows." She insisted, her eyes begging him to believe.

 Chapter 369 Family reunion

    <h4>Chapter 369 Family reunion</h4>

    "Are you sure?" His mind racing with a million other exnations

    "His name is Shadow." she offered with a small wince

    "Are you serious?" Lei Zhao bit out, extremely out. He remembers that mysterious guy that was following his wife back in New York

    He insisted on it, on ount of...." Yan Mei trailed off with an incredulous look on her face, "because he said that was all that was left of his past, he never talked about his past too"

    "Oh my God" the words followed by a choked sob from his mother

    "Yan Mei" he didn''t know who to turn to

    "I promise you, Lei Zhao , I know him"

    "It''s alright, she is just, we can''t even begin to even imagine it." He exined, unmanned by the tears in his mother''s eyes

    "Let me arrange a meeting" Yan Mei pleaded

    "Yes, please. Tell me how you met him." His mother responded softly

    "I think it''s better you have this talk with him, but I met him on the road side, severely bruised. I saved him and once he regained consciousness he had no idea who he was. He decided to protect me with his life as a form of payment. My father needed someone to keep an eye on me at that time,so he became my bodyguard in the shadows, earning the name shadow."

    "Just like him" the voice was filled with equal parts hope and disbelief

    "He was very good at it"

    "He had a brief stint in the Marines" he offered

    "That''s it! I saw a tattoo on his left shoulder." Yan Mei pointed out triumphantly

    "Could this be true," Lei Xiao Tong asked absently,

    "I swear to you mom, I''ll bring your son home to you," Yan Mei promised but she recognized the look in her eyes, a look of hope that had already died a thousand times.

    "I promise you,Lei Zhao , I''ll bring him to see you, I''ll bring him home" she promised humans he believed.

    **********************************

    Lei Xiao Tong gasped after taking one look at the person they hade to meet and turned into her husband and burst into tears.

    Mr. Lei stroked his wife''s back as he looked at the man now standing in front of him with a look of pure confusion with tears in his own eyes. Three years was a lot of time to be deste and love with despair, a happy reunion was almost as painful as a loss.

    "Lei Zhang?!" Lei Zhao couldn''t help eximing, he couldn''t believe it.

    "Hello, is that my name?" Those innocent words spoken had the effect of a bomb on thepany of four, Lei Xiao Tong sobbed harder, Mr. Lei closed his eyes as if he was in pain and Lei Zhao tried to get everyone seated.

    It was a good few minutes before everyone settled enough to have a conversation.

    "You don''t know what your name is?" Lei Zhao queried softly

    "I don''t remember anything except the crash so, yeah I called myself Shadow" Lei Zhang replied with a self-deprecating smile that was so familiar it drew his mother into another gale of tears

    "Because that was what was left of your past... How are you, big bro?" Lei Zhao finished softly

    "I''m good, I just.... This is all so surprising for me, I never knew, I mean are you sure?" Lei Zhang questioned, cautious hope shining in his eyes

    "You have three birthmarks on your back, I held you on the day you were born and you gave me the oddest look" Mr. Lei replied easily

    "I believe you, my default look makes people confused, I get that all the time. I believe you about the birthmarks too, it''s both insignificant and important at the same time."Lei Zhang replied before softly adding "this is unnerving"

    "For us too, we held a funeral for you" his father softly chimed in, "and here you are alive and well with us"

    "I still don''t know who you guys are, or who I am for that matter"

    "My son," Lei Xiao Tong pronounced emphatically before wiping off fresh tears

    "Calm yourself, honey, he''s not going anywhere

    "It''s been three years, I''ve cried many times, I don''t know why I still have tears left"

    "Please don''t cry, it makes me feel like I''m doing something wrong" Lei chimed in with a look of anguish

    Lei Xiao Tong gasped again, "do you hear that? Just like he used to say to me all the time, the same way he says it whenever we have to say goodbye."

    "I can hear him, baby"

    "It''s my son, it''s him"

    "Our son"

    "Three years, three years of crying myself to sleep"

    "I know baby I know"

    "I don''t know if you remember anything yet but I''m not going one more minute without getting a hug from you." Lei Xiao Tong decreed and got to her feet to embrace her son for the first time in years. It started like an embrace between two strangers and ended as a familiar hug between two people who had so many years of love between them.

    Lei Zhao didn''t have words, he felt that if he opened his mouth he was going to start bawling like a baby.

    "I remember your perfume" he confessed as he hugged her tighter

    "I remember your hug" she replied as she reciprocated the hug

    "Hello Mama" the two words drove fresh tears to her eyes, this was happening

    "Hello, my little love" she whispered.

    Lei Zhao had left his parents with his younger brother at the seaside Cafe after the two of them had made their ns to catch upter and walked back to the beach to Yan Mei .

    From afar he found himself riveted with his wife as she yed football with a ragtag group of kids. Watching here alive after the events of the past few weeks, he couldn''t help being overwhelmed by his emotions for her.

    She must have felt eyes on her because she turned around to look at him then started racing in his direction. He caught her into a small twirl that ended in a breath-stealing kiss.

    "You look beautiful," he said with a soft smile.

    Yan Mei giggled, a giddy sound he cherished as a blush spread all over her face. "How was it?"

    "It''s him for sure, he had memory loss and couldn''te home." He answered as he absentmindedly stole another kiss.

    Yan Mei smiled up at him as she replied, "he never talked about his past, I was curious for the longest time."

    After a short emotion-filled pause Lei Zhao finally said "Thank you"

    "Don''t thank me," Yan Mei returned as she tried to wave his words off, "he is like a brother to me, now I find out he''s my brother-inw. I did it for a perfectly selfish reason"

    "It''s not selfish if it gives me everything I''ve ever wanted, you''re everything I''ve ever wanted and every day, you amaze me. I love you so much I can''t begin to exin how much." his voice was low but filled with so many emotions

    "I love you too" she whispered back

    "And it seems you''ve been doing it before you knew me."

    "Huh?"

    "If you could give my brother happiness, a sense of home and love and belonging long before you knew me, long before you even saw me then I must say you''ve loved me long before I loved you." Lei Zhao concluded logically, but the look in his eyes was more poignant than his deceptively light tone"

    "Lei Zhao"

    "What I''m trying to say is what are the chances of that... Just a step short of impossible. It''s like you''re meant for me and in this vast world, I found you. It humbles me, you humble me and you are everything."

    "Lei Zhao ."

    "Don''t say a word, thank you for loving me in ways I can never repay, thank you for loving me." He finished with tears in his eyes.

    She stood on tiptoes to kiss the tears away before kissing him with all the passion brewing between the two of them. "Thank you for letting me love you and no matter what our future brings, I''m happy to have you."

    "Are you afraid? Of our future?" He asked tentatively

    "No, not as long as I have you." She returned, so confident in her answer. "I love you so much"

    "I love you too"

    A/N: hy guys please I have released a new book, The Beautiful Monster please check it out! And add it to your library

 Chapter 370 New beginnings

    <h4>Chapter 370 New beginnings</h4>

    7 MONTHS LATER

    A swell of chatter filled the hallways of the university''s stadium, parents and friends fawning over the college graduates one more time before they left to go take their seats to watch the ceremony. Ying Sheng leaned against the wall, biting her lip anxiously as she nced around at all of the graduates in her year. She could hardly believe that she was wearing the ck gown herself.

    She had made it. Her business n received a good grade, she passed every one of herst sses, she finished up her internship at the university''s business office, and she got everything she needed for her graduation set up. It had been more work than she had ever had to do in her entire life, but she faced it head on and got it done. That was all that mattered.

    Ying Sheng reached up and lightly fluffed her hair, preparing herself for the walk across the stage to get her diploma. She wanted to look good, even if she didn''t have a whole family out in the stands cheering for her. She looked around again, her eyes ncing over the crying mothers, the proud fathers, and the supportive siblings. She didn''t have any of those.

    Her friends were working now, but they promised to celebrate with herter on. She was fine with that. She was just grateful that they wanted to celebrate her because she actually wanted to celebrate herself.

    She had worked hard. She had fought through her own darkness, refusing to let it eat her alive when she knew that the light wasn''t too far ahead. If she gave up, she wouldn''t even be giving herself a chance. She couldn''t do that to herself. She had too many dreams and hopes. She couldn''t just abandon them.

    Ying Sheng was determined to take her bakery seriously after she graduated. She knew that she had to take out money and spend it to make money, and she was devoted to the ups and downs that she would have to go through. It was all part of business, which she had been thoroughly studying for the past four years. She had the knowledge. She just had to take the leap.

    "You look beautiful," a voice sounded beside her.

    Ying Sheng whipped around to see Liam standing beside her in a ck suit, prompting her eyes to widen in shock.

    "Me? You¡­ you look amazing," she murmured in awe as she reached out to trail her fingertips down one of thepels of his suit jacket. She wasn''t all that upset about her parents not bothering toe because the most important person in her life had showed up.

    He was the one who cared about her, who mattered to her. She had learned that she couldn''t worry about those who didn''t make an impact on her life. They could ignore her and wish her the worst. It would only hurt her if she let it, and she refused to allow herself to get beaten down by people who didn''t matter to her. She was worth more than that.

    "Thanks. It''s a special asion, so I wanted to dress up for it," Liam replied as he winked at her. He reached out to gently take her hand, lifting it to his lips for a yful kiss to her knuckles.

    Even if it was yful, Ying Sheng could still feel the passion. She was still grateful for the touch and his presence, which meant the world to her. Someone would be cheering her on for her aplishments, and that was what mattered.

    "I can''t believe I almost let my parents convince me that I would amount to nothing. Today¡­ I''m a college graduate," Ying Sheng breathed out in disbelief, her head shaking. It was a big step, one that she was proud of. She had struggled and fallen multiple times, but she had constantly gotten back up. She couldn''t be kept down for long.

    "And tomorrow, you can be whoever you want to be. One day, you''ll be a business owner," Liam added with a proud smile as he wrapped his arm around her waist to hold her close.

    Ying Sheng knew that he was right. The power was in her hands. After spending so long thinking that she was powerless, she finally realized that she had more control over her life than she had previously realized.

    "And as long as I''m with you, I''ll be a happy girl," she pointed out as she smiled at him. There were plenty of things that she wanted to change in her life, but he wasn''t one of them. He was right where she belonged.

    "I''m not going anywhere," Liam promised her before pressing a soft kiss to her temple. "Except right now because I think you guys are getting ready to go onto the floor."

    Ying Sheng looked around her to see the graduates starting to walk to the floor of the stadium to find their seats. She drew in a calming breath to steady herself, realizing that she had to part from him now.

    "I guess I should go," she murmured, stalling on the spot as she turned back to him. Even if he was going to be in the stands, she was still going into this part alone. However, she was meant to do this, and she wouldn''t let her own nervousness hold her back.

    "I''ll see you right after the ceremony, and I''m taking you out,"Liam told her warmly, sharing a smile with her before lightly cupping her chin. He leaned forward and gently kissed her, his eyes fluttering shut.

    Ying Sheng leaned into the kiss, her lips curling up at how warm and soft it felt. It ended too fast, but she knew that she needed to go so that she didn''t miss her own graduation ceremony. She pulled away and squeezed his hand before turning to follow some of the other graduates onto the sleek floor of the stadium. Just then she heard someone calling her name.

    "Ying Sheng!" Ying Sheng stopped and turned to see her father running towards her.

    "Dad, you came!" Ying Sheng said gleefully as she hugged her father.

    "Of course I came. I wouldn''t miss my daughter''s big day for any reason."

    Ying Sheng smiled and nodded, "Okay, I have to go."

    Her father smiled and hugged her. "I''m proud of you."

    Ying Sheng blinked away the tears that were threatening toe out and shed her dad a smile before walking away.

    She faced multiple rows of chairs, graduates filling most of them as they chatted and waited for the ceremony to start. She walked around and found her seat on the third row near the center, her fingers twining together nervously as she got settled.

    Not too long ago, she thought that she would never make it to this part. She hadn''t been able to see her future because she wasn''t sure if she''d have a notable one or not. However, the storm clouds cleared out, and the sunlight broke through. No matter what, the sun always found a way toe out.

    Ying Sheng sat up in her seat as she heard themencement music start ying, the university''s faculty moving into their positions on the stage. She adjusted her ck gown absentmindedly, preparing for her walk once the speeches ended.

    Her mind was racing the entire time people were talking, unable to properlytch onto their words. She could only hear her own thoughts, her own hopes for what would happen once she got that diploma and walked out of here. Even if her business n had a few kinks that could be fixed, she believed that she had enough hope and drive to make her business into everything that she wanted it to be.

    It would be a haven for families, a ce for their happiness to bloom. She would see children smiling, cooperating parents, and beautiful interactions. The baked goods wouldn''t be the only sweetness in her bakery. She would ensure that it was a happy ce for all.

    "Graduates, please stand," the President of the university announced.

    Ying Sheng drew in a deep breath, holding it until they were told toe to the stage to receive their diplomas. She followed her row to get in line, her heart rate steadily increasing with each and every step she took.

    "We made it," the girl in front of her giggled to her friend.

    Ying Sheng smiled a little at that sentiment. It was true. They had all made it, and she knew that all of them had struggled in some sort of way. The journey into adulthood wasn''t a smooth one. It felt lonely and scary, but they either faced it head on or cowered from it.

    Even after feeling like giving up, Yingcontinued to persevere. She wanted to make a few people proud, and those people were herself and Liam. Just by heading to the stage, she felt like she had done that. It was her first step into a new world.

    As the names were called and the line grew shorter, Ying Sheng shifted her eyes around the crowd, searching for Liam. Like a ma, her eyes were soon drawn to him toward the top of the stands. She smiled, knowing that he could see her too. He had always had his eyes on her.

    "Ying Sheng."

    When Ying Sheng heard her name be called so that she could walk across the stage and get her diploma, everything else around her went silent. It was just her,Liam, and the path ahead. To her, that was all that mattered. Her journey had just begun, and the first step was now.

 Chapter 371 The end

    <h4>Chapter 371 The end</h4>

    Yan Mei gritted her teeth and huffed through the pain. The nurse hovering over her left shoulder calmly reminded her that "it''s okay to make some noise dear, there is no shame in screaming if you want to"

    But she just shook her head, her body in the grip of too many sensations and ongoing pain. If she had time to take a deep breath she would have told the nurse that she didn''t have enough energy to scream. 12-hourbor and the first baby was just crowning.

    "I can feel the head now, Mrs. Johnson you''ll just need to push one more time to deliver this baby" the nurse between her legs called out. The nurse called her Mrs. Johnson because of the new identity Lei Zhao had created for them. In order to protect their children, they had fled to states to live a quiet life. With the help of her mother-inw they had faked their death with only a few people knowing the truth.

    Yan Mei took another bolstering breath and squeezed her husband''s hands. Absently she recognized the cool cloth wiping at her forehead as the work of her mother-inw. Lei Xiao Tong could remain graceful and elegant in the middle of an apocalypse, the only sign she was aware of the situation was the small worries in her eyes and the small smiles of encouragement.

    Yan Mei gritted her teeth and bore down, exhaling thest part in a loud shout, she prepared to do it again when she heard the weak cries.

    "You have a girl Mrs. Johnson, she''s 2.5kg and feisty" as if the baby heard the doctor''smentary and disapproved, she cried even louder.

    I can see the head of the other baby now, you just need to push and you''ll be ready to go home.

    Yan Mei was exhausted but tried to rally herself. "You''re doing so good my love, just one more push and we can go home, one more, and our family will beplete. I love you"

    She nodded and pushed one more time, and her second baby arrived into the world with a warm rush of liquid between her legs.

    The moment she heard the second round of cries she flopped back gracelessly into the bed, it was almost as if the focus shifted from her to the babies. A nurse handed a squirming child to Lei Zhao while Lei Xiao Tong hovered in the periphery of her vision dabbing at her forehead and to her neckline with a cool cloth.

    "You''re a warrior Yan Mei , thank you for my grandchildren."

    Yan Mei nodded slowly, too winded to reply, she turned back to see Lei Zhao walking towards her cradling one baby and the nurse holding the other.

    She didn''t know where she found the strength but she stretched out her hands to take the first baby and nestled her against her breast. The baby whimpered softly beforetching on to her nipples.

    The second baby nestled onto her right breast but seemed more interested in watching the scene.

    Bright red eyes tinged with cobalt watched all the adults inquisitively as he clenched his baby hands close to porcin ears.

    Instinctively she knew it was her baby boy, her daughter was nuzzling softly at her breast and rxing against her in degrees.

    "They''re perfect," Lei Zhao whispered words between them in the still bustling room.

    Yan Mei winced at the actions of the nurse still between her legs but rxed again. Lei Xiao Tong sniffed somewhere to her left, "I''ll go and tell the others that the babies are here"

    "Give my love to Lei Zhang " Yan Mei called after her departing mother-inw, her voice was a croak, after that she must have dozed off because the next thing she woke up to was to find herself in a private hospital room with Lei Xiao Tong dotted beside her and their menfolk crowded around the crib a few meters away beside her bed.

    "She''s perfect" Lei Zhang stated with authority

    "He''s perfect too," Lei Zhao pointed out just as confident in his words

    "He looks like you" Lei Zhang scoffed softly

    "I''m perfect" Lei Zhao protested, anyone could hear the dopey smile in his voice

    "You forget that I remember everything and I assure you you''re not." Lei Zhang reiterated

    "Howe she''s perfect?"

    "She looks like her mom" Lei Zhang answered as if that was an obvious truth, Yan Mei smiled, her smile widened impossibly when Mr. Lei , her father-inw chimed in

    "Both my grandchildren are perfect, if you don''t believe that, bring your grandchildren forparison."

    "Oh, you''re already pointing out grandpa''s rights?" Lei Zhao asked in a voice choked with mirth

    The three of themughed, a muted sound that brought tears to her eyes, she heard sniffling but looked up to catch Lei Xiao Tong wiping away at her eyes. "Thank you for my family, Yan Mei "

    Yan Mei smiled softly and shook her head "it''s my family too.

    Lei Xiao Tong nodded and squeezed her hand.

    "Now you can finally be happy with no worries of the future. Your children will be your source of happiness."

    Yan Mei looked at her children and a soft smile tugged at the corners of her lips. She never thought she can give birth ever in her life but fate had different ns for her.

    Yes she has suffered but now she knew everything was worth it. She was happy for the lessons life threw at her because it made her better and stronger person. Now she was a mother who will do everything for the happiness of her kids..

    "Wifey¡­." Yan Mei looked up and saw that she was now alone with Lei Zhao in the room.

    "Thank you." Lei Zhao said as he nted a kiss on his wife''s forehead.

    Yan Mei shook her head, "No. Thank you for not giving up on us. For always believing in me and never letting me go. Even in my next life, I will choose you over and over again."

    Lei Zhao smirked at his wife, "Me too. I will always choose you. For you my darling, are my happy pills."

    "I love you, Wifey. Always and forever."

    The end

    A/N: Hiyo....Thank you guys for your support for my book! I really appreciate it. I know the ending is a little rushed but don''t worry that''s not the end of the book! We will continue with LZ and YM''s children story called Beautiful Monster. Which will be released on 18th May so please stay tuned!

 Chapter 372 Amy Lee

    <h4>Chapter 372 Amy Lee</h4>

    Monday morning, the day that Amy Lee had looked forward to for weeks on end, finally arrived, but the girl slept soundly in her bed, unaware of her best friend and little brother plotting to destroy her peaceful slumber right outside the door of her bedroom.

    "How do you think we should we wake her?" Chynna asked, pushing the door open a crack with one hand while the other cradled her waist. Together with Amy''s younger brother, Gu Zhou, they stared at Amy''s sleeping form, her mouth wide open and drool soaking into her pillow, threatening to spill over onto her fiery red hair, scattered all over the pillow.

    "I should get my horn and blow in her ears," the boy supplied mischievously, turning to go and get his musical instrument. If there was anything he loved, it was startling his big sister. She was like a huge scaredy-cat whenever he ambushed her unexpectedly, and it always made for a goodugh.

    "Oh, no you don''t, Gu Zhou! We are not scaring your sister awake," Chynna countered, pulling the boy by his shoulders, and pushing him towards the kitchen.

    "So how do you propose we wake her up, eh? Her job starts in 3 hours, and I have to be in school in 1." He was like every typical teenager his age, excited about mischief.

    "It''s her first day of work after quitting that shitty barista job, Gu Zhou, we need to do something sweet for her, like make her breakfast."

    "Um, no offense Chynna but you suck at cooking," Gu Zhou remarked, his face contorting into a frown as he recalled thest time Chynna had attempted making dinner for him when his sister fell sick and he had to endure her terrible cooking for nearly week.

    "I do not suck at cooking, you rude child. But be happy that I won''t be blessing you with the deliciousness that is my cooking. We''ll order pancakes instead," Chynna responded, quite good-naturedly, to the harsh remark her best friend''s little brother had just spat out at her.

    Gu Zhou''s eyes widened with excitement.

    "Go and take a bath and get ready for school, I''ll make the order, okay?"

    "Yes Chynna, you''re the best!"

    "I thought I was a terrible cook barely a minute ago?" Chynna asked quizzically, her left brow arched upward in an exaggerated questioning look.

    "Well yes, you''re that too," he said sassily, poking his tongue out at her, and then stretching to nt a quick kiss on Chynna''s cheek, as if to soften the effect of his harsh remarks about herck of cooking skills, and then running away fast before she could strike him. Even though his sister always teased him about having a mad crush on her friend, he would always deny and insist that he was a big boy.

    Crushes were for kids, and he was no kid. But that whenever he was ready to fall in love, it would be with someone even hotter than his sister and her icky best friendbined, he would always brag. It was a wonder though, how he never hesitated to sneak in little bits of affection towards Chynna.

    "For she''s a jolly good fellow, for she''s a jolly good fellow, for she''s a jolly good felloooooow, and so say both of us!"

    Cracking an eye open, Amy awakened to the sound of singing voices, but the first thing she saw was her hair. She pushed it out of her face to behold her best friend and little brother instead, holding a giant tray of pancakes thered in syrup and butter, apanied by a jug of orange juice. They had brought her breakfast in bed.

    "You guys!" she eximed in a groggy voice, putting her hands to her face and unable to control her smile. How much more lovely could her favorite people get?

    "It was my idea," Gu Zhou offered quickly, earning a sharp pinch from Chynna the very next second.

    "Why are you lying to your older sister? That is very disrespectful, and its bad luck, especially on an auspicious day like this one," she scolded, fixing the boy with an ultra glower.

    She set the tray of food down beside her friend on the small bed. "Sorry sister, Gu Zhou apologized, nodding towards his big sister.

    "Oh, that''s okay, let''s just eat all of this before it turns cold," She responded, not wanting such a beautiful moment to be ruined. She sat up and tearing a piece off the pancake tray and throwing it into her mouth, she munched, savoring the deliciousness. Her brother and best friend joined in, and together, they all enjoyed a beautiful breakfast.

    Amy was grateful for Chynna Wang. They had been best friends for 21 years, and she was yet to regret it. If anything, she knew that day would nevere. This was the soulmate the universe had thought fit to bless her with and she was beyond grateful for it. Chynna was just the best friend anyone could ever ask for.

    They were such different people, though. Chynna being such an outgoing and hyperactive woman who didn''t care what anyone thought of her, while Amy was quieter and more reserved, almost always hiding behind her sses and her best friend. In their High School days, she was often picked on by more popr kids, but Chynna would stand up for her.

    Her father was a cardiologist and the richest man in their province, and with her mother being awyer on top of it all, no one wanted to mess with her.

    Amy, with her middle-ss parents, who could only barely afford the needs of their two children, naturally found her ce in the shadow of the more privileged Chynna. It was the great financial sacrifice by Amy''s parents,bined with her high intelligence that even made it possible for her to be in the same space as Chynna, for the purpose of getting an education. But it was one of the best decisions her parents could have ever made. And she was forever going to be grateful to them for it.

 Chapter 373 Wu Corporation

    <h4>Chapter 373 Wu Corporation</h4>

    As she watched her best friend and her little brother eat together, her heart warmed some more, the smile never leaving her face. She was thankful for a lot of things, and they included the two most important people in her life seated right here with her to celebrate a new step in her career life.

    After school, Chynna had tried to influence a job for her friend but Amy would not hear of it. She wanted to earn whatever position she got. She was pretty confident in her qualifications but for some reason, things never really panned out like she wanted. But she never gave in. She took a small paying job serving coffee at a popr caf¨¦ in the downtown business district. But it had been too demanding and her boss was mean.

    Eventually, Chynna had given up on waiting for her to agree to help. She took matters into her hands and phoned an old friend, Edward Wu. He was heading the billion-dor empire that was the Wu Corporation.

    She had gotten word that his old Personal Assistant was finally retiring. It was a great opportunity and so she quickly pitched Amy in. It was a huge role to fill and Edward would have liked someone with more experience and age but Chynna had her ways. By the end of the phone call, she had basically secured the position for her friend, drawing on her shared history with the businessman.

    When she broke the news to Amy, thetter was a little unenthused, but seeing as beggars cannot be choosers, she eventually agreed to take the role, thanking Chynna profusely. With the hope of a new job, she called her old job and quit outrightly, without even so much as dignifying the mean man with her presence.

    He was still swearing at her in rapid sessions when she hung up on him. She and Chynnaughed heartily, enacting hrious mimicries of how they guessed he would look at that moment, nearly bursting into mes from anger.

    "So, have you decided what you''re going to wear today, droopy face?" Chynna asked teasingly, stuffing another piece of pancake into her mouth and chewing.

    "Not really. I''ll just find something after I shower," Amy shrugged in reply, not really caring about her appearance. Her mind had wandered far off and clothes were thest thing on her thoughts. She was nervous enough, as it were, for her first day of work, and she could not be bothered about getting into a frenzy over what she had to wear.

    "What do you mean? You are literally making a first impression today! Whatever you wear, that''s what is going to set the tone for you, forever." Chynna''s perfect round eyes were wide open, her face tense as if she was telling a horror story to a bunch of children at a campfire. And maybe she was, in a way. As a model herself, any outfit short of perfection was horrifying to imagine, much less experience.

    "Chynna, it really is not that big a deal, trust me," Amy said.

    "Oh, it is a big deal. Go into the bathroom and get clean, I''ll pick something out for you. Wash your hair too. Such beautiful hair deserves the best care it can get, okay?"

    "Chynna, you''re being unreasonable," Amy tried to argue, but the brte only pulled her up and shoved her towards the bathroom and then mmed the door in her face. "If only I had your hair, you silly girl," she added on her way back to where Gu Zhou was still seated, observing the ruckus, unable to grasp why clothes and hair should cause that much drama. "Don''t bother. You''ll never get it. After all, you''re just a little boy," Chynna said, reading his expression urately.

    "Stop it! I''m not a little boy!" he protested a little too energetically, perhaps because a part of him realized that at just twelve years old, he still had a long way to go before he was even close to being a man.

    Gu Zhuo''s school bus arrived a few minutes after, and Chynna walked him to the door, pushing some money into his hands for lunch and wishing him a good day at school. She was an only child, so she loved Gu Zhou like he was her own brother, taking care of him in every way that she knew how to.

    She roughed up his hair on his way out and he pped her hands away. She justughed at the minor embarrassment she must have caused him in front of his friends who were already on the bus and watching the whole show.

    Once his bus had gone out of sight, she busied herself with clearing out Amy''s room and finding her something nice to wear.

    ***

    "You''re kidding right?" Amy asked, surprised. She had just gotten out of the shower and beads of water still clung to her skin in ces her towel had not reached. Her red hair hung together in clumps falling down to her shoulder.

    "What do you mean? I picked out the cutest outfit for you," genuinely taken aback as to why Amy was alreadyining.

    "Chynna, I haven''t worn this skirt since 11th grade, and this top is my grandmother''s. Didn''t you say it was hideous thest time I put it on?" Amy protested, moving over to her dressing table. She picked the handheld blow dryer. She powered it on and held it to her hair. The wet strands started to lose the moisture in faint puffs of steam.

    "Amy, Amy, Amy, have you learned nothing after being best friends with a fashion model? The skirt is small, and the top is a bit loose. You''re tucking it in, remember? You''ll look splendid. Now sit down and let me fix your hair."

    It took no time for Chynna to finish drying and then style Amy''s hair into aplicated looking low bun, pulling some strands out at the front to frame her face. Her makeup was also done minimally, a soft shade of red lipstick added to her lips so that they looked full.

 Chapter 374 PA

    <h4>Chapter 374 PA</h4>

    "You look so fucking sexy, I could cry," Chynnaplimented, wiping a faux tear from her eyes. She reached for her phone and took a picture of her best friend.

    "I''m supposed to look professional, not like a sex worker,"

    Amy protested but blushed despite herself, as she shrugged into the outfit Chynna hadid out for her. before picking up her bag and looking at herself in the mirror. Chynna was right, she did look really good.

    "You are going to kill it at the office today, I promise,"

    The taller, brown-haired Chynna assured, hugging her best friend from behind and nting a kiss on her cheek.

    "Let me drop you off at the office, then I''ll go and get ready. I have a ton of shoots today, I might die."

    Taking in a deep breath, Amy put on her high heeled shoes, then slipped on her horn-rimmed spectacles. Stepping into the living room, she looked up at the portrait of her smiling parents.

    ''Wish me luck mom and dad.'' She wished silently as she stepped out with her friend.

    City M seemed to just be waking up, its crisp September air blowing in Amy''s face as Chynna drove her to work in her red convertible.

    The county-level city was northwest of the Qinghai Province and not very urbanized. In fact, the Wu Corporation where Amy had only just found work, fondly called WUCORP by the townspeople, was one of, if not the biggest, attractions in the city.

    "Are you still nervous, Amy?" Chynna asked, cing a well-manicured hand on Amy''s leg, without looking away from the road.

    "A little. I don''t think I''m qualified enough for this job, Chynna. What if they ask me some difficult questions and I can''t answer them?"

    "Amy, listen, the job is already yours. There is absolutely no need to worry about things like that. You literally studied Business Marketing. Any good firm knows how important it is to have a professional business marketer on the team.

    Besides, you have always been so positive about getting what you''re due. What changed?" Chynna asked with real concern.

    "But I haven''t really had any real experience since graduating. Besides, I''m only going in as the boss''s ything,"

    Amy sighed, adjusting her thick framed sses in a nervous movement, still not convinced but d that she had Chynna there with her.

    "Self-deprecatory, much?" Chynna shot her friend a nasty look for a split second before focusing back on the road. "You''re going there as a direct assistant to the boss, that''s what.

    You probably don''t know it, but so many people would give a lot to be in your position right now. As the Personal Assistant to the CEO, you can wield a lot more influence than most people."

    Amy heard what her friend was saying but it did little to help her rx. She fidgeted with her hair, twirling a loose strand between her fingers.

    They drove in silence for the next few minutes while she let herself space out some more.

    "We''re here."

    "Holy shit."

    "It''s huge, I know." Chynnamented, knowing exactly what her best friend was thinking.

    "I hope there are no stairs, because those would literally be impossible to climb." Amy replied, slinging her bag on her shoulder, and turning to face Chynna.

    "Thank you so much for the ride, Chy. You''re the best friend anyone could ever ask for, and I love you so much."

    "So are you Amy."

    Both girls hugged themselves tight, tears gathering at the corners of their eyes.

    "Go kick some ass, girl. Show those guys who''s boss!"

    "They are, but I get what you mean," Amy teased her friend.

    "Smartass. Get out of my car," Chynna giggled, yfully kicking her friend in the shin.

    Amy exited with augh, blowing a kiss to her best friend, and then standing to look up at the impossibly tall building.

    At 09:00 am, the sun had just begun shining, and it reflected against the ss walls of the Wu Corporation building, making it give off the most beautiful colors.

    It looked like somewhere Chynna would love to have her picture taken, Amy thought as she willed her beating heart to settle down.

    Taking a few more deep breaths, she wiped her sweaty palms on the fabric of her skirt and walked through the front doors. She was tall enough for a girl, at five feet, five inches.

    With her three-inch heels, she looked pretty noticeable. Her face was not particrly remarkable and even with Chynna''s input with makeup, she was at best what most people would describe as homely.

    Her legs though, were clearly beautifully arched in a lovely way from the hips down.

    As a child, her dad used to tell her her legs were a pair of finely crafted bows, carved by the most skillful dwarves of Asgard. It made her feel special.

    That is until mean girls and boys at school started to pick on every part of her body. She lost whatever self-esteem the older man had ever helped her boost.

    When she finally reached the imposing door, it slid open on its own ord. She tried to hide her surprise and walked in.

    "Excuse me, good morning, ma''am," she greeted, bowing her head to a pleasant looking olderdy at seated at a polished wood desk. Everything about the establishment oozed of ss and sophistication.

    "Good morning," thedy responded. "How may we help you?" she asked sweetly.

    "My name is Amy. Amy Lee," she added nervously. She would hate to start off with the poorest impression.

    "I am supposed to be starting a new job here today." She said the sentence like a question, almost as if she were unsure about the veracity of her im.

    Watching as the woman stared at her like she were a chimp newly escaped from the circus, she wrung her hands and added, "I was wondering if you show me to the CEO''s office? I am his new Personal Assistant," she added as if on afterthought.

    A/N: hyy guys please add my new book to your library. The Beautiful Monster. It follows the life story of Yan Mei and Lei Zhao''s children in the states.

    Also this is just a volume dedicated to other characters not a continuation of the YM''s story

 Chapter 375 Edward Wu

    <h4>Chapter 375 Edward Wu</h4>

    "My name is Amy. Amy Lee," she added nervously. She would hate to start off with the poorest impression. "I am supposed to be starting a new job here today." She said the sentence like a question, almost as if she were unsure about the veracity of her im.

    Watching as the woman stared at her like she were a chimp newly escaped from the circus, she wrung her hands and added, "I was wondering if you show me to the CEO''s office? I am his new Personal Assistant," she added as if on afterthought.

    "You are 2 minuteste, youngdy!" the older woman scolded, wagging a finger but the kind look remaining on her face.

    "I am so sorry, please forgive me." Amy begged, her head remaining bowed as her face burned in embarrassment. She had no idea who thisdy was, but if she was scolding her this much, it meant that she held some sort of importance in thepany, and a bad reputation was thest thing she needed on her first day of work.

    "Well, since it was only 2 minutes, it is forgivable. But you know what would have been best? Not beingte at all. But, it''s okay. Happens to the very best of us," thedy said. There was no malice in her voice, only genuine concern.

    Come, I will show you around the office, so you can settle in before the young boss arrives." Amy felt relieved just listening to the woman talk. She was internally d that her new boss had not arrived before her.

    That certainly would have made things a lot worse even though this kind olddy wanted her to think that it was not such a big deal.

    "My name is Mei Mei Chung, and I have worked for the Wu family since I was very young. They have been good to me, especially old Wu and his charming wife, god bless them wherever they may be," she said, pausing to look upwards, a sad look flitting across her face.

    "I am sure the young boss will be good to you as well, if you remain diligent and hardworking," The older woman told her as they rode the elevator upwards.

    "I wonder how many floors there are," Amy murmured to herself, smoothing the flyaway hairs on her head so she did not look crazy.

    "A little over 20, I too am unsure. But we are only allowed on thest 10. The other top floors arepletely sealed off. No one is allowed there. Sometimes I wonder why, but I am far too old to engage in any pointless discoveries. Whatever is up there, I doubt that I want to see it even," Mei Mei Chung said.

    ''Great,'' Amy thought. ''The CEO of this ce is young, and seems to have some kind of secret. I just might enjoy working here.''

    "On this floor, the 5th floor, is the kitchen. Edward loves his morning coffee, can''t function without it. If he doesn''t get it, he goes crazy." Mei Mei Chung joked, chuckling to herself.

    The kitchen wasrger than Amy''s entire apartment and every surface was covered in stainless steel, making the ce resemble a steel wondend. All so shiny and robotic.

    "Edward?"

    "Edward Wu, the man you will be working for. He is the third generation of Wus to own thispany. Are you sure you are in the right ce? How do you not know even this?" Mei Mei Chung was genuinely taken aback, and she stopped to turn and look at Amy.

    Amy was at a loss for words. She was shy but this felt like something else entirely. It was all she could do not to turn around and make a beeline for home. Mei Mei Chung shook her head and started to walk again.

    They had gotten off the elevator on the fifth floor so she could show Amy the kitchen. She was walking along the lobby now towards another elevator exit that would take them to the 10th floor, where Edward''s office covered nearly half the entire floor.

    "I can see you have got a bad case of the nerves. I would advise that you rx and take things easy. I understand that being in this building alone can be very intimidating for most people, but don''t think too much of it. Edward is a nice boy. I literally watched him grow into a handsome young man.

    He seems like a hard nut at first, but once you get to know him, he''s the nicest boss anyone could wish for." The grey-haired woman recalled fondly, a distant smile on her face. "He likes his coffee rather sweet. Half and half of cream, milk, and sugar.

    He will always ask for extra sugar, so take him a te with 3 cubes of sugar. Two will go unused, but it''s important they''re on the te."

    Amy recorded the information in her brain, hoping that she would never forget anything that she had been told.

    "Edward has special restaurants that he likes to eat lunch at. It is separate from the one he orders food from when he is with his friends. There''s also a different one for when he has huge meetings. Are you following, sweetheart?"

    Amy breathed deeply to steady herself and nodded, forcing a smile onto her face. It was a lot of information to digest, but she was sure she would get the hang of it in no time.

    At the elevator, Mei Mei Chung paused and turned around. "You''re a smart girl. I knew you''d be perfect the moment you walked in. Nowe on, we have some more floors to cover before you can finally meet Edward."

    Amy''s eyes went wide. "But¡­ I thought you said he hadn''te in yet?"

    Mei Mei Chungughed loudly. "Great! I was just making sure you hadn''t lost all the information I just gave you. In fact, I think you will be just fine from here on.

    Get up to the tenth floor, make yourself some tea, and rx. You''ll know when the bosses in." With that, she turned and left the same way they hade up.

    Amy took what felt like the hundredth deep breath of the morning, and as she stepped into the elevator, she sensed that her life was about to change drastically. Just how drastic, she could not have imagined.

 Chapter 376 First meeting

    <h4>Chapter 376 First meeting</h4>

    "All right everyone, thank you foring to the meeting," Edward thanked his staff and guests, with a stiff smile on his face that looked like it was painted there by a sweeping brush stroke of a stoic artist.

    He was tall. Tall and imposing, with broad shoulders that threatened to rip apart his beautifully tailored suit.

    His face was handsome in aid-back way, with hardly any facial hair in sight, but for bushy brows on his smooth forehead. He had a semi buzz cut on. His lush, dark hair jutted off his head in shiny one-inch strands.

    Amy stood at the foot of therge conference table, notepad and pen in hand, but her mind had drifted far from thoughts of work.

    She stared at her new boss, wondering what it would be like to run her hands over his short hair, or caress his smooth skin.

    She could feel herself getting moist at the mere thought. She squeezed her legs together in protest but found that it only made the sensations even worse.

    She watched his lips move as he addressed the small crowd seated at the table but heard nothing.

    She could only wonder what it would be like to have those lips all over hers. She smiled at the thought. It would be just like in those novels, she was dead certain. Her heart threatened to jump out of her chest, but she managed to still herself.

    "Edward, Imend your efforts, but I don''t think that your new and fresh ideas will be good for thepany."

    An older staff member stopped Edward in his tracks, offering helpfully. "If your father were here, he would¨C"

    "Xie Cheng, my father, bless his soul, is no more. He handed thispany over to me to run, so it''s mine.

    I respect you Mr. Cheng, that''s the only reason why you''re here, Try not to blow it," Edward replied impatiently, letting the man know that his input was not needed.

    Amy''s eyes went wide with surprise as she listened to the conversation between the two men.

    "Edward is a firecracker, that one," Mei Mei Chungmented, startling Amy a little. She had almost forgotten that Mei Mei Chung was at this meeting too.

    The woman moved like air; silent yet permeating every space. Her eyes held a soft gaze and her lips a gentle smile, probably reminiscing some sweet moment.

    Amy looked back and forth between the old woman and the back of the rude man. ''I hope he isn''t rude to me like that,'' she thought.

    "These kids, act like they know everything," Xie Cheng muttered under his breath as he barged out of the office, hitting Mei Mei Chung and not bothering to apologize.

    "Are you okay?" Amy rushed to the old woman''s side.

    "It takes more than that to hurt me, Amy," Mei Mei Chung said with a wistful smile. Plus, old Xie Cheng is always ready to burst.

    He and young boss here hardly ever see eye to eye. But they make a good team regardless." She chuckled, brushing the incident off graciously. "Nowe with me, it''s time to meet the man you work for."

    ***

    "Mei Mei Chung, you look lovely today," Edward greeted fondly, bowing respectfully to the older woman. Taking her by the arm, he led her into his office, totally disregarding Amy.

    Amy stood gobsmacked, wondering about the sudden switch up.

    Besides being blindingly appealing, she could already tell that her new boss would be quite a handful for her. But instead of apprehension, she could feel excitement building on her insides.

    "Oh Edward, you don''t have to be so doting, you know that I''m stronger than you without even trying," Mei Mei Chung protested weakly. It was obvious that she enjoyed Edward''s affections for her.

    Amy followed quietly behind them, watching the little drama unfolding in front of her. A smile creeped up her face unnoticed.

    "I know, Mei Mei Chung, but you are the most valuable human in this entire office, and I could die if anything happened to you," he replied the old woman, making her sit and then sitting beside her on the arm rest of the couch.

    She was the oldest working staff of the family, having taken care of his father and now him. He trusted her with his life, and she was the one person with whom he had no problems being openly affectionate.

    While he fussed over Mei Mei Chung and caused her to forget the reason she hade to his office in the first ce, he caught the shadow of someone standing by the door from the corner of his eyes, and he could feel annoyance building in his chest.

    "Who are you, and what do you want?" he called out, his voice deep and even more intimidating than his heavy build.

    The words in Amy''s head jumbled up as she looked tried to reply, but the only words that left her lips were "Uhhh."

    ''How does he manage to make anger look so hot?'' Amy thought, trying to control her facial expression and stare less but failing miserably.

    This man, Edward, resembled a perfectly carved marble statue, every line and crease on his face looking like they were made to be exactly where they were, with a jawline sharp enough that it could cut through ss.

    This man, was a Greek god and no one could convince the awestruck Amy any differently.

    "Edward, my dear boy, she is the new employee I told you about, remember? The one who is supposed to take my ce as your assistant," the older woman exined patiently in a manner that said she was all too used to Edward''s tics.

    She knew how easily Edward got irritated, and she would rather not have him scare the poor girl further.

    "Oh? So why is she standing there like a statue then? Come on in and introduce yourself," He responded brusquely, waving Amy in.

    Mei Mei Cheng stood up and tapping Amy lightly on the back, she took her leave of them.

    "I-I''m sorry," Amy sputtered, as she stepped in on unsteady legs that had turned to jelly. Her face was rapidly turning a deep shade of red as her embarrassment reached an all-time high.

    "I''m Amy Lee," she finally managed, and then stretched out her hand out to shake his, but he just stared condescendingly at her outstretched hand, looking at her lithe frame from head to toe.

 Chapter 377 Rude Boss

    <h4>Chapter 377 Rude Boss</h4>

    "Edward Wu, CEO of Wu Corporation. But I''m sure you already knew that, unless of course you are some sort of idiot. Are you an idiot, Amy?" he asked and then without waiting for a response, he continued, "Wee on board.

    I''ll have you know that I don''t take it easy on new workers, and you will have to prove yourself as good as sweet old Mei Mei Chung here. Hers are an impossible pair of shoes to fill. It would take you a lifetime to even get halfway."

    He turned to look at the already retreating old woman and shared a soft smile, and then back to Amy, his stern frown returning.

    ''How does he do that smile and frown thing? Is he bipr?''

    She nodded her head, her cheeks ming even hotter as he bent to her level as if staring at ab rat. His breath came in hot puffs, hitting her face and worsening her predicament.

    She felt like pping herself for thinking of this rude, uncouth person as even remotely attractive, but one look into his watery brown eyes, and she knew she was a goner. She wondered if his pupils were truly dted or if she was only imagining nonsense.

    ''Why does she keep doing that thing with her nose? She looks like a little bunny,'' he observed, shaking his head to stop himself from giving in to theughter that was threatening to spill out of him at the thought.

    She was his employee and thinking of her as cute was as inappropriate as things could get. Besides, if he was being honest, she looked more like a wet rat, shaking all over as she was, than some cute little white bunny.

    "Good," he said curtly, and then drawing himself up to his full height, he walked over to his end of the table, subtly enjoying how Amy quivered at the sight of him.

    His father had always said that respect should be valued more than fear, but the thrilling feeling of someone cowering before him always set a sort of me aze in him.

    "Now, I''m not sure if Mei Mei Chung told you about everything you will have to do, but¨C"

    "Actually sir, she told me everything I have to do and I''m fully informed," Amy interrupted, her eyes wide as saucers and cheeks still red.

    "Of course, I trust her. So then, you must know just how I like my coffee?" he questioned again with a raised brow.

    "She did, sir, I already know how to make your coffee," she responded, eager to do something and maybe impress her new boss.

    "Oh yeah? Go fix me a cup then, and be fast about it."

    "Right now?"

    "Right away, Amy Lee." He turned to her with a scowl that sent her scurrying out of the office with immediate effect.

    Outside the door, she paused and leaned back. It was not even a whole day yet and she felt totally exerted.

    She waited for her breathing to settle before setting off for the mini kitchen adjoining the office for the boss''s sole use. Her hands shook as she made the coffee, trying hard to make sure it was just how Mei Mei Chung had instructed her a few hours before.

    When she eventually had everything ready, she put it all on a fancy tray she had found in the cab and took it to him, praying to all the gods and ancestors that he would not find any faults with it.

    ****************

    "He asked me to make him five more cups of coffee, iming they were all too sweet, or too creamy. One dumbint after the other, I tell you!" Amy eximed, drawing her knees up so that she was sitting with her legs akimbo.

    Her living room had stayed the same way since her parents'' deaths barely four years ago when she was just eighteen years old.

    She always liked to look at the family portrait hanging over the firece, forever saying a silent prayer asking for their forgiveness.

    She had never stopped ming herself for their deaths. If only she had not made such a fuss over the stupid talent show at school, perhaps her parents would not have gotten on the road to attend, only to get crushed to death hourster.

    Two couches and a sofa sat in an l-shape at the leftmost side, while a floor mat adorned the center of the room.

    Her parents had been of small means, but it was the simplicity of their hearts that truly reflected in the way they refused to fill their home with anything but what was necessary. Amy admired that about them.

    In fact, she had loved everything about them, right from the first day they stepped into the orphanage where she had been abandoned as a wee baby to when they finalized the adoption papers and brought her home almost a yearter at eight years of age.

    Two yearster, they had had their own biologically child, a boy they named Gu Zhou.

    She liked to tease him about looking just like the wine vessel¡ªslender with a wide head. This was one of the causes of their numerous sibling fallouts. Twelve years down the line and she had not yet tired of riling her brother up.

    "So, he just stopped asking for more coffee at the fifth cup?" Chynna asked, drawing Amy back to the present.

    "Yes! And do you know the most stupid part?"

    "Tell me, Amy." Chynna fought to stifle in herughter, wiping at her nose and clearing her throat to hide it.

    "I made the coffee the same way Mei Mei Chung had told me he likes it, all five times, and the only change was to the foam art at the top, can you imagine that? A part of me feels like he did all of that on purpose just to rattle me, because there really was nothing wrong with the coffee I made four times prior.

    All that expensive coffee was wasted. I don''t know why he doesn''t just order directly from Greybox.

 Chapter 378 Helpless

    <h4>Chapter 378 Helpless</h4>

    "I made the coffee the same way Mei Mei Chung had told me he likes it, all five times, and the only change was to the foam art at the top, can you imagine that? A part of me feels like he did all of that on purpose just to rattle me, because there really was nothing wrong with the coffee I made four times prior.

    All that expensive coffee was wasted. I don''t know why he doesn''t just order directly from Greybox.

    That would save the entirepany and me especially, the stress of trying to make high-end coffee in his kitchen.

    He is even lucky I worked as a waitress before. Some other person might have botched the coffee so bad and left him with a scalded tongue," the redhead threw her hands in the air exasperatedly, shaking her head as her best friendughed at her, unable to control it.

    "What''s so funny, Chy?" she questioned, attempting a frown but unable to hold her ownughter. Chynna''sugh was very infectious, and it took little time till she caught the bug too.

    Both womenughed heartily, Amy forgetting the reason why she was upset, and Chynna just happy to see a smile on her best friend''s face.

    Having taken on so many responsibilities at such a young age, Amy always had her head full, and Chynna made it her sole duty to always remind her best friend tough.

    Despite her earlier irritation and the tired look on her face, it was obvious that Amy was excited about her new job.

    It was a reputablepany and the pay was certainly the most decent she would ever receive since she started working any job. She could not quantify the gratitude in her heart for Chynna helping her get the job.

    "I know it sounds like I''ve been full of nothing butints since, but trust me, I''m really grateful, Chynna. This is literally the best thing anyone has ever done for me in my entire life. Except maybe getting adopted," she said chuckling.

    They bothughed softly before she went on. "The office is super nice. It has air conditioning and I get my own small office. Such a huge change from serving coffee from behind a counter. And the cafeteria is literally a 3-star restaurant.

    You can have as much food as you want. My boss might be annoying, but thepensation for this job is definitely not." There was a gleam in Amy''s eyes as she spoke, the joy she felt expressing itself in a broad smile and teary gratitude.

    Chynna reached over to her from her perch on the couch, smoothing down her shoulder inforting caresses.

    "I''m d that you love the job already. And yes, I know Edward can be quite a handful but you''re the strongest woman I know and I''m sure as hell that you can handle him."

    "You have such faith in me, I sometimes wonder if you''re not stupid," Amy joked. "I have to go help Gu Zhou with his homework and make dinner, but I promise that we will catch upter tonight, okay?"

    "Yes, best friend, do what you have to do," Chynna replied, hugging Amy tight and beaming her a smile. "I''ll tell you all about my day when you''re done cooking poison," she shot back in retortion of Amy''s earlier good-natured jab.

    Once Chynna had taken her leave, Amy strode into the kitchen to start up Chicken Chow Mein for dinner. She mixed ginger, garlic, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, red pepper kes and pepper in a bowl.

    Then she got out the chicken cubes, arranged them neatly in a Ziploc stic bag and poured in the marinade. Stuffing the chicken in the refrigerator, she proceeded to find Gu Zhou.

    The one hour during which the chicken would need to marinate was more than enough to help Gu Zhou finish his homework. As she helped the boyplete his lessons, her mind could not help drifting off with thoughts of Edward.

    She recreated his face in her mind''s eye. His perfect jawline, the dreamy brown eyes and bushy brows. She remembered his breath, hot and heavy on her face when he leaned into her that morning. She imagined him leaning even closer and capturing her mouth in his.

    ''He is my boss, and today is only the first day, I should stop thinking like this.'' She scolded herself, shaking her head. Being single her whole life was starting to take its toll on her.

    Gu Zhou wrapped up thest item on his homework and she went back to the kitchen. She retrieved the marinated chicken, and poured it into arge pot, then let it cook over medium heat.

    Then she removed the cooked chicken from the pot, adding sesame oil to which she added vegetables¡ªonion, celery, carrots and cabbage. To saut¨¦ the vegetables, she added noodle bricks, poured in the chicken broth and covered it with more vegetables. She let the noodles cook for about five minutes and then broke them up. Then she reintroduced the cooked chicken, adding thest bit of marinade.

    Dinner was a simple affair, with Amy in a hurry to get to bed, and Gu Zhou wanting to go y video games.

    The siblings did not talk much after, only exchanging goodnight hugs and kisses on the cheeks, with Gu Zhou smacking his lips and telling Amy how much of a better cook than Chynna she was. They shared augh and turned in for the night.

    Amy fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. She had known just how tired she was after her first day attending to her egomaniac boss.

    Her dreams were filled with images of his handsome face despite how much she had willed herself not to think about him when she was awake and conscious. Now that her subconscious was holding the reins, she was utterly helpless against his charms.

 Chapter 379 Sleepless nights

    <h4>Chapter 379 Sleepless nights</h4>

    Amy fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. She had known just how tired she was after her first day attending to her egomaniac boss.

    Her dreams were filled with images of his handsome face despite how much she had willed herself not to think about him when she was awake and conscious.

    Now that her subconscious was holding the reins, she was utterly helpless against his charms.

    ***

    On the other side of the city, Edwardy in bed in his grey silk night robe, eyes wide open. His room was stately. Befitting someone of his status.

    The high ceiling was finished with beautiful artistic drawings in sky blue ster of Paris. The curtains on his window were from floor to ceiling, heavy wine-colored drapes with threads of golden embroidery forming beautiful floral patterns all over the cloth.

    The floor was ck marble, polished so well that it shone. A chandelier perched precariously in the center of the enormous room. A dressing table cut from oak adorned the left corner of the room.

    A family of Russian dolls were arranged ording to height on the table. The bed was possibly the most impressive piece of furniture in the entire room. Standing at eight-by-eight feet, it was the first thing anyone would notice if they ever had the privilege to be in Edward''s personal space.

    The sheets were pure white cotton, the pillows numbering almost ten at the head of the bed, there hung a seven-foot painting of a Violinist by Chen Yifei.

    Despite the grand nature of this room, Edward never managed to get more than four hours of sleep on good days.

    The sleeping disorder had begun when he was just a boy. And the demons he was fighting had followed him through to adulthood. Twenty-eight years old and highly sessful, but he still had to pop pills before he could knock himself out.

    Tonight however, as hey wide-eyed, waiting for the medications to kick in, he was unable to shake free of the thoughts of his new Personal Assistant.

    She had waltzed into his office only hours before and now for some inexplicable reason, he could not get the image of her red hair from his mind.

    It made him uneasy but as if held captive by a spell, he could do nothing to dispel the thoughts. As handsome and sessful as he was, there was no telling that he had had his fair share of women.

    Exotic, foreign women with enough meat on them. But he had never been able to hold down even one. No that he had ever been interested in doing so. He got his release where it was avable and moved on fast.

    Which is why he was at a loss as to this strange new feeling assailing him. He looked at the scrawny Amy, inparison to his other paramours and there was nothing worthy of drawing his excitement.

    Yet here he was, seized by thoughts of bending her over his desk back at the office and piping her vigorously with the entire length of his meat.

    He felt a clenching down below and reached down to confirm that he had gone immediately hard at the mere thought of Amy''s ass pushing up against his thighs.

    His naked chest spotted tattoos across the base of his neck bone. The markings were unclear in the dim night light.

    He imagined Amy''s breasts under the loose-fitting blouse she had worn. He was sure they would be firm and round, yet soft to the touch.

    The things he would do to her¡­ His head was still filled with thoughts of Amy when he drifted off into a drug-induced sleep.

    He awoke barely three hourster, panting and sweating despite the air conditioner cooling the air in his room.

    The substance of the nightmare was the same as always with random variations as only dreams were capable of. He turned to his bedside clock.

    It was barely 05:00 AM. Knowing he would not be able to get any more sleep, he got off the bed. Yet another long day, he thought as he made for the bathroom to wash off.

    ***************

    Edward got out of the car, the door held open by his chauffeur who had his head respectfully lowered. He stormed in through the ss doors of thepany building. He was cranky, still tired and feeling like he could have someone''s head for breakfast.

    His shoes squeaked against the clean, tiled floor. He rode the separate elevator that led straight up to his office suite.

    "Good morning," Amy greeted, handing him the steaming mug of coffee she had made ready. She had made a point toe in early today to avoid any sort of embarrassment.

    Her hair was pulled up in a less borate bun than the one Chynna had made for her the day before. She wore a thrift dress by Caroline Hu.

    The knee length, white ensemble clung to Amy''s slender body beautifully. Her shoes were a ck pair of ankle boots with two-inch block heels.

    Edward looked her over in one sweeping nce as he took the cup of coffee she held in her hand and threw it back, not even minding how hot it was, but needing himself to be more awake. His eyes lingered on her bosom before he caught a hold of himself and brought his eyes back up to her face.

    Amy wondered if what she thought she saw was real. ''

    Was he just checking me out?'' she wondered. But before she could dwell on it, his voice pulled her back to the present.

    "Have my second cup of coffee ready in the meeting room. And then clear my schedule until noon. I have important guestsing over."

    "Yes, sir," she responded but he had already turned away from her, making a call on his cellphone. She watched his back for a few seconds and took a deep breath before making her own exit.

 Chapter 380 Jealous Boss

    <h4>Chapter 380 Jealous Boss</h4>

    Minutester, Edward weed his best friends with ps on the back and typical roughing upmon to boys. Lei Zhao, who was on a video call with them and was married with twin babies, did not lose any part of the fun.

    He was as stern as his best friend Edward, but he could afford the asional loosening up around the men who had be like brothers to him. Henry Liu was the most irresponsible of the lot with his yboy attitude andck of focus.

    He had no real job, but he spent like a thief, digging a huge hole in his family''s inexhaustible finances. Jun Mo was the prim and proper one, havinge from a long line of doctors, he had a level head and calm disposition.

    He hardly ever got into trouble. His family never had any reason to worry about him.

    The three young men finally settled into their seats with Lei Zhao watching them from thefort of his home.

    Even though he had faked his death, his friends knew he was still alive and they had this type of meeting every month. That''s how precious their friendship was.

    "What have you assholes been up to anyway?" Edward asked, a sarcastic look on his face.

    "Maybe plotting to kill you," Henry joked.

    "Get serious for once in your life," Jun Mo chided.

    "Or what? You''ll chop me up with a scalpel?"

    "You nutjobs talk like you forget who Edward is. Even the government of China could not harm him even if they tried," Lei Zhao said matter-of-factly. It was so hard to tell when he was being serious or not.

    Edward suddenly remembered his instructions to Amy would no longer work. He dialed her office immediately.

    "Hello," came her voice over the connection.

    "Bring me three coffees," he said tly.

    Henry''s brows arched in question. "That sure as hell wasn''t Mei Mei Chung, was it?"

    Edward chuckled but said nothing. Minutester when Amy walked in, the men hushed and watched her as she served the coffee quietly.

    Then they watched Edward watching her as she made her retreat.

    "Edward," Henry said, drawing the name out in a prolonged syble. "You look smitten!" and this time even Lei Zhao had no wittyeback.

    And that was all the affirmation the others needed. They bantered for a few more minutes before settling down to the business discussion that had brought them. Edward wanted advice on a proposed expansion of his business.

    At the end of it, he had decided against the said expansion. He would focus his energy on the existing business.

    ''And justice,'' he mused to himself.

    Days rolled into weeks and soon Amy was celebrating her first month anniversary at the Wu Corporation. She took goofy pictures which she sent to Chynna who was away on a modelling trip to the United States.

    She was close to insanity though, working with a man who made her insides melt by merely existing. She had been workingte for the past week, sometimes on things she thought could wait till the next day but which her boss would always insist she finish up before leaving.

    He was brusque with her but for some reason she adamantly told herself that she saw affection in the way he looked at her whenever he thought she was not watching. She could not be certain though, but itforted her aching heart to hold on to the fantasy.

    She felt a pang of guilt at all the time she was spending away from Gu Zhou. They only had each other but she could barely even make time for him anymore.

    Today would be different though, she told herself, as she packed her bag in readiness for clock out.

    She picked up her phone to reply a few texts which she had not had time to get to all day. There was one from Chynna. It read,

    "Hey, gorgeous! It''s been such a busy day, but I thought to pop in and tell you how much I miss you." It ended with some goofy emojis and hearts. Amy grinned happily. To convey her real emotions, she decided to send a voice note back.

    "I miss you so muchhhhhhh!" she said, stressing thest word for long seconds. "I cannot wait for you to get back so I can hug you tightly.

    Oh, and I have so much to tell you. Just get back already," she added, pouting as if Chynna could see her, then she pressed send. In her distracted state, she had not heard Edwarde in.

    "Is this what I pay you for?" his voice startled her terribly and she jumped, turning to face him. This was so unprecedented.

    He had never had toe into her office before. That was what the inte was for, she thought, as she tried to gather herself. Besides, it was almost closing hour. Why could she not get a break to send a twenty-second voice note, she wondered?

    "Now, tell that silly boyfriend to get busy with something else and bring yourself to my office immediately!"

    "It''s not my boyf¡­" Amy started to say but he was already gone, his footsteps making soft fall sounds on the carpeting.

    She rolled her eyes and arranged her dress quickly as she made the short trip from her office to his, wondering what she did to rile him up. As she stepped in, he made no effort to hide his roving eyes, and she started to connect the dots, however unbelievable it was even to her own mind.

    ''He did not just get jealous thinking you were talking to a boyfriend, did he?'' she asked herself, trying not to burst intoughter.

    "Sit here," he said, ushering her to the couch next to his desk. She sat awkwardly, wondering what this was about this time.

    "You work for me, Red," he said tly. She blinked a couple of times. Red? "And I expect that whenever you are in this office or anywhere in this building, really I expect that you would devote your time to doing the job that you are being paid for.

    Do you understand that?" His eyes seemed to sh, and Amy wondered what was making him so worked up. But she just nodded pensively, her hands tucked obediently between her thighs. He stared at her for a while.

 Chapter 381 Guilt

    <h4>Chapter 381 Guilt</h4>

    "Have you got nothing to say for yourself, eh, Red?"

    She looked up. ''What could I possibly say?'' she wondered. ''And why does he keep calling me that? I should probably ask him to stop.''

    But she knew she would not. This man had a weird effect on her and oddly, she liked the sound of it, so no she would not ask him to stop even though it was so confusing that he would be scolding her and calling her a pet name while at it.

    She could bet her left great toe that he meant it as a taunt or at least for it toe off as such, but he was failing woefully and instead, he sounded very sweet.

    The word rolled right off his tongue like an incantation to one''s favorite god.

    "Your mind sure wanders a lot," he said, startling her back to the present.

    "I¡­ I am sorry, boss. I just think too much these days is all." She bit her lip shyly.

    "Maybe take a break from whatever is running through your head and do something for me."

    "Yes sir," she nodded enthusiastically, and standing up in readiness.

    He told her what he needed. For her to look through his shelf of books and find an economic magazine from nearly a year ago. She tried her best to hide her frustration, but she was failing at it.

    "Is there a problem?" he asked. He sounded brash as usual but there was a note of genuine concern in his voice. He pped himself mentally.

    Whatever was happening to him needed a quick nip in the bud, he thought. A part of him knew making her do these odd and unnecessary tasks was mean but another part of him enjoyed having her all to himself even if it was in these awkward, silent moments.

    She got up and made for the bookshelf. The nearly ten-foot-tall wooden structure was intimidating. Amy wondered where she was supposed to start from.

    "Start at the bottom," Edward said, as if hearing her thoughts.

    She crouched down and started leafing through tons of magazines.

    As he sat there watching herb through the literature, he wrestled with himself. She was so beautiful to look at; with a sweet innocence that was inviting and irresistible.

    The way he felt just looking at her was in truth very alien to him as an adult man. He had only ever felt something simr as a young boy with a relentless crush on the queen bee at his private school.

    She never once acknowledged him, though, and then she left one summer, never to return again. He had gotten word that she and her family had relocated to America. His friends taunted him brutally that day, but he brushed it all off bravely, only to go home and weep inconsbly.

    Mei Mei Chung had been the one who found him when she came to tell him his father needed him in the home office. He hadforted him as best as she could, telling him there would be lots of girls to catch his fancy when he was much older.

    Inter years, she would me herself for setting him on the wrong path, because he appeared to have taken that promise a little too seriously and now, he was having affairs all over the ce.

    When he once got wind of her guilt feelings, he assured her she was not to me for anything. This was just how he had chosen to live his life and it was working just fine for him.

    He could have all the fun he wanted but without any of that emotional baggage that had threatened to crush him years before.

    But not with Amy. Not with his Red. This one tugged at his heart strings by merely existing. He thought back to sometime earlier in the week during one of his myriad meetings.

    She had brought in his coffee on request and as she was about to make her way out, one of his colleagues stopped her to exchange pleasantries. He told her what a fitting recement she was for good old Mei Mei Chung and she blushed, smiling bigly at thepliment.

    Edward felt his stomach roil. He could not help but think the man was flirting with her and not only was she enjoying it, but she was also flirting right back! It took nearly all his willpower not to tackle the man to the ground.

    Instead, he put on his best fake smile and announced that he would like to go on with the business of the day.

    Everyone chuckled, and as Amy hurried away, she turned back to nce at him for a spilt second. Her cheeks were a rosy red. He felt bad that he might have embarrassed her slightly, but the others had already returned enthusiastically to arguing and countering each on the best policy, so he forced the incident to the back of his mind and thrust in his own contributions.

    Looking at her now, he felt bad all over again. He did not have any real need for the magazine he was making her look for, so why was he punishing her that way, he wondered.

    He decided he would have to redeem himself somehow, so reached into his desk drawer and retrieved two small cards which he slipped into the breast pocket of his suit. Then he punched into his phone for a few seconds before standing up and moving towards her.

    She felt motion beside her and looked up to see that Edward had moved closer and was staring at her. In a confused panic, she got up and made towards the door.

    His hand shot out and held her back. Her throat felt too dry for words, so she swallowed painfully, staring up at him with pleading eyes.

    She was confused about her own reaction. ''What are you afraid of, girl? Haven''t you dreamt of this for weeks on end?'' she scolded herself, willing her body to quit its panicking.

 Chapter 382 Asking her out

    <h4>Chapter 382 Asking her out</h4>

    She was confused about her own reaction. ''What are you afraid of, girl? Haven''t you dreamt of this for weeks on end?'' she scolded herself, willing her body to quit its panicking.

    "What are you scared of?" Edward asked, mirroring her thoughts again. ''Don''t think I haven''t caught you staring longingly at me all these past few weeks.

    ''You want me, don''t you, Red?'' he thought but decided against saying. He had had his fair share of women in his young life but never one quite like Amy.

    He could sense some vulnerability in her, but something told him he would be absolutely mistaken to think of her as fragile.

    She possessed a calm strength that was unforced. In fact, looking at her, he could almost be certain that she herself was unaware of the effect she had on people, especially him.

    And that was the most amazing kind of strength that was raw natural energy. This thing that she was, drew him to her irresistibly.

    He leaned in and peered into her eyes intensely. Her heart beat erratically within her chest, but his was beating even faster, despite his stoic demeanor.

    He had never been more grateful for three-piece suits and years of practice at maintaining poise even if he was in fact going to pieces on the insides.

    He had several years of being at the meeting table where important decisions were supposed to be made and everyone was trying to make sure that their interests were adequately represented, even to the detriment of the others.

    Even before assuming his father''s role as Chief of the Wu Corporation, he had been privy to those kinds of settings and he had watched his old man remain as still as a stone statue regardless of whatever spin the table was taking.

    And in all those years, he had subconsciously ingrained in himself the hard to master art of the poker face.

    He was wearing the very best of his almost bored expression at the moment but there was a twinkle in his eyes that he could not make disappear even if there was a gun to his head.

    Edward broke the stare momentster to rummage through the pocket of his suit jacket. After what he adjudged to have been the right amount of time, he slid his hand out and held out a couple of tickets between his thumb and index finger, so that they cut a sharp V-shape.

    "How do you like Rock," he asked in the most casual way he could muster. ''Please, say yes,'' he sang repeatedly in his head, before giving himself a mental kick in the knee. ''

    You are only trying to seduce a woman, Eddie boy. You are not trying to get her to fall in love with you, so behave.

    After all, no woman could ever say no to all of this.'' A wry smile appeared on his lips, as his thoughts reinforced his macho ego.

    "I¡­" Amy started to say, then froze again. How did he expect her to think clearly when he was staring at her so intently, with his lips all turned up at the corners in obvious mischief?

    He looked every inch like the wicked yboy that he was rumored to be, and Amy wanted nothing more than to blurt out a curt ''no'' and then get on her way out of his office and away from him.

    But instead, her brains seemed to have ceded control to her woman parts and so she stood there, gawking at him, inhaling his mild but very present manly musk and feeling his warmth try to cling to her own skin.

    "Yes, Red?" he prodded. "It''s the Midi Modern Music Festival. No one could possibly say no to that.

    Plus, you strike me as the kind of girl who would love what they are about. Saving the and all whatnot."

    He chuckled at thest bit and the note of mockery undeying hisughter was not lost on Amy.

    She lowered her eyes in response, causing Edward to pause. Men like him could never really care about anything other than expanding their empire and widening their harem, she thought.

    There was no surprise there, yet she could not stop herself from feeling some kind of disappointment.

    Because he was in fact right. She did care and she had always wanted to go to the Midi Festival since she first got wind of it as a pre-teen girl, but her parents would never let her go to something like that.

    They had been highly conservative, bless their souls.

    "No way," he said, surprised and understanding fighting for dominance across the features of his face.

    He put a finger under Amy''s chin and gently lifted her face up. She was biting her lips and fighting back embarrassed tears.

    "Come on then, you redhead," he said, no longer waiting for her toe to a decision. He took her by the shoulder and steered her towards the door.

    She followed willingly. Some people might have said like amb to the ughter because nothing was ever going toe out of this trajectory that her rtionship with her boss was starting to take but she had neither the will nor the intention to stop it.

    They rode the elevator together in silence, but it surprisingly felt far from awkward. There was somethingpanionable about the way that the quiet, entuated by the nearly imperceptible mechanical hum of the steel contraption, enveloped them.

    It was moments like this one that made Amy want to believe that there was more to the man than most people were privy to.

    Soon, they reached the parking lot on the ground floor. This part of the building looked alien to Amy who had never been privileged to be in the exclusive space.

    Apparently, it was reserved solely for the Chief and other top executives of the Company. She looked around discreetly, admiring the assets sitting pretty in the form of exotic cars.

    But her vicarious enjoyment of the wealth she could not even begin to dream of, was cut short by Edward''s driver pulled up in front of them.

    She had not noticed him make any calls to the older man, and she wondered what theirmunication system was like.

    ''Right on time, old guy,'' Edward thought, smiling, pleased at his driver''s well-timed response to his text barely a minute ago.

 Chapter 383 Her smile

    <h4>Chapter 383 Her smile</h4>

    "So, how did you get the tickets?" Amy asked, trying to break the silence as they settled into the silver-grey Mercedes Benz. As soon as the words had left her mouth, she realized what a silly question that was.

    This was Edward Wu. There was nothing he could not do. She bit her lower lip to hide her embarrassment. But his reply was nothing like she had expected.

    "Mei Mei Chung used to bring them to me every year. I have no idea who sends them," he answered with genuine interest, and then realizing how that might havee off, he chuckled lightly.

    "A lot of people send things to the Company, and to me. It''s industry goodwill. The Company does the same for some of our most loyal clients too," he added in exnation.

    Amy nodded her understanding. She had had few people do anything for her. In fact, she could count them on two fingers.

    Her parents and Chynna. She could not imagine what it was like to have people randomly give one stuff.

    "Must be nice," she muttered absentmindedly.

    "Sorry?" Edward asked.

    "Oh! I said it must be nice having people give you free stuff all the time," she responded, clearer this time. She looked up at him and smiled shyly.

    Edward''s heart melted and then did a crazy summersault at the sight of Amy''s smile. He nodded, his throat too clogged with emotion to speak.

    He was afraid he would embarrass himself if he tried to respond right away. She was a hardworking girl and she it deserved the whole world, including a slice of the moon, maybe. And yet, it seemed like she was not even getting the least.

    He feltpelled to fix that. To bring her all the good things she deserved and more. His heart righted itself, then flipped over again. He looked away.

    The car drove on in silence for a few more minutes before he spoke again.

    "So, tell me, Red, what rock bands are you a fan of?"

    "ck Panther!" she replied enthusiastically as if she had been waiting to be asked the whole time.

    "I used to sneak around the house with my best friend so we could listen to them on her iPod. We would lie to my parents that we were doing homework or something school rted but what we were really doing was whiling away time, catching up on music."

    Sheughed at the memory, and then continued. "I like Dou Wei too. But that''s probably because he used to work with ck Panther. And then, there''s Hedgehog too, but my absolute all-time favorite just might be Queen Sea Big Shark.

    I''m certain it''s gender bias, but it just is such a breath of fresh air having a woman be involved in what is mostly a male dominated space and excelling while at it. Because damn! You and I know the girl is good! Heh!"

    Edward could not help but smile at her excitement. He was seeing a whole new vista to her. And he almost immediately regretted the limited role she had to y back at the office. In this very instant, she had been transformed from the monosybic one liner robot into a fully animated, bubbly, and interesting character.

    When they pulled into the parking lot of the arena, Amy was startled at how swiftly two huge men sheter recognized as bouncers materialized before her and Edward.

    Their effusive and respectful demeanor towards Edward was however uncharacteristic of all the other bouncers she had been unfortunate to encounter in her young life.

    They fussed and kowtowed and bowed so much that they started to look like overinted intable teddy bears. Amy was reminded yet again of the power of influence and wealth. As if she was ever allowed to forget, even, being surrounded by Edward''s fortunes as she was.

    While her mind wandered, the two men in their ck uniforms, together with Edward, started to move forward. She quickly dragged her mind back to the present and hurried to meet up with them.

    They soon reached an exit that looked like the entry into a service elevator. One of the bouncers pulled open the basic wrought-iron gate and ushered her and Edward in. Amy observed it all with calm trepidation.

    She wanted to ask why they were not going through the proper entrance but was scared of sounding stupid to Edward who looked unruffled.

    ''This must be normal for him'' she thought, chewing on her lower lip. The interior of the elevator looked okay and nothing like the rustic contraption it had seemed like on the outside and soon, they were ushered into an open rooftop area.

    The loud music hit Amy all at once and she involuntarily brought her palms over her ears to curtail the impact. Edwardughed and leaned closer to her as he yelled, "They''ll adjust to the sound, trust me."

    Then he grabbed her hand and led her towards the edge of the concrete deck. He crouched down and sat, letting his legs dangle freely off the ledge. He looked up to Amy whose eyes were wide with surprise and some other emotion she could not quite ce at the moment.

    "It''s fine, Red. You don''t need to be afraid," Edward said, raising his voice but failing to be audible over the sound of nging cymbals and humming guitars. So, he just settled for extending his hand to her.

    She took it and proceeded to sit down beside him with the utmost fear of someone not ustomed to having nothing but air under them.

    "This is beautiful," she said, after finally settling in and getting back some control of her erratic breathing.

    "It is," Edward concurred. And for a moment, they both stayed silent, drinking in the music as well as the view of gyrating bodies below them, chorusing along soulfully with the performing artistes.

    Their enjoyment was punctuated by one of the bouncers from earlier. When Amy turned back to see the cause of the intrusion, she was pleasantly surprised to see that the huge fellow hade along with a pic-like basket. He dropped it off and made a quiet retreat as Amy and Edward nodded their thanks.

    "Did you n all of this?" she stuttered, looking over at Edward.

 Chapter 384 Hidden feelings

    <h4>Chapter 384 Hidden feelings</h4>

    He stayed quiet for a beat, unsure of how to respond. An affirmation would mean he had been thinking about her a lot, enough to want to n a date.

    But denial would mean a whole range of unsavory things and in his experience with certain women, he would not be able to hear thest of it. So instead, he opted for the truth as well as he could muster.

    "I¡­ er, I realized the tickets were in my drawer and I know I have been driving you really hard for thest few weeks, so I believed it would be a great idea to treat you to a break," he answered as honestly as he could.

    "Besides, I needed one myself, and being up here alone might have been a lot less enjoyable. In fact, I might havee off as a little lonely, don''t you think?" He did not wait for her to respond but went on.

    "Just think of it as you doing me a favor, really. And if that''s not okay, I''ll do you one even better. You can think of it as an extended office assignment."

    Amy tried to stifle her smile but failed. It spread all across her lips like wildfire. "What about all these extra steps, then?" She asked before she could stop herself.

    "Do you always go to concerts from the balcony?" The music had taken a more mellow tone and so they were able to converse slightly more audibly.

    "Red, a man of influence such as I am, can make things happen without even so much as lifting a finger. Surely, even you can realize that." Edward replied, turning away from her.

    His words stung a bit, but Amy recognized them to be the words of a man masking his growing vulnerability. Or at least, she hoped that was the case because anything else was no more than a p in her face.

    She kept a straight face and looked back out towards the crowd. The music had picked up again and fans were screaming the lyrics joyously.

    Their voices were like the drone of some mechanical monster. Presently, an over-energized fan tried to make it onto the stage to cop a feel of their idol, but the attempt was foiled by the hefty guards stationed in front of the elevated podium.

    ''Poor guy,'' Amy thought. The world suddenly turned bleak. There was too much restriction everywhere.

    The spaces where the unprivileged could ess were trimmed smaller and smaller every day while the rich could go wherever they pleased and do whatever they wanted while being praised for it. She shook her head.

    ''When did you turn into a philosopher?'' her inner voice spoke up with a mocking tone. She felt like running away and hiding from everyone and everything including herself.

    Maybe herself especially. She moved back slowly, then picked her legs up over the edge, then she stood up and started towards the elevator. Edward caught the movement from the corner of his eye and immediately raced for her.

    "Where are you going?" he demanded, grasping her by the arm. She flinched from the pressure and he released his grip slightly. "Well then, speak up woman!"

    Amy just stared. She was at a loss for words. What could he possibly tell the man? That she had hoped this was an actual date and that hisments earlier had hurt her feelings?

    She could not possibly bring herself that low, so she opted to stay mute. Edward released herpletely and paced a few steps away. He ran his hand through his hair as he did so.

    The image of him in the dull light from the concert below was so beautiful, Amy felt her stomach clench. His behavior was so odd, for someone who liked toe off as unbothered, he looked super concerned with furrows lining his smooth forward.

    She just stood there and watched, offering nofort or exnation. Whatever it was, he would work it out by and with himself. He was a man of many ways after all.

    Edward moved closer and taking her by the arm, he led her back to the edge of the deck from where she had stood up only minutes before, she let him pull her along like a log of driftwood.

    She settled back down, while he grabbed the basket one of the guards had brought earlier. The concert was all but forgotten now, especially as it was already drawing to a close.

    Some of the attendees were making their way out of the arena already. Amy watched as Edward unpacked the things in the basket. There was an array of snacks.

    He urged her to help herself to the food and drinks. She chose randomly, picking up a pack of Haw kes. She had just taken a bite out of the hawthorn berry snack when his voice floated to her.

    Their hands brushed against each other''s lightly as he reached for a pack of rice crackers. Amy felt an electric bolt shoot through her at the brief contact. Edward felt it too.

    His skin tingled all the way down to his toes. He sucked in a sharp breath and quickly tore open the pack of crackers and hurriedly stuffed his mouth full.

    Watching him eat was a pure delight. His Adam''s apple bobbed up and down with the movement of his mouth working through the rice crackers he had picked up.

    Amy felt like her eyes were glued to his every movement. She could not look away even if she wanted to.

    Until, he raised his eyes and found her staring, at which point she speedily averted her gaze, blushing so hard she actually flushed.

    He let his eyes linger for a bit. He felt so drawn to her. Her face, her beautiful legs, her shy mannerisms, all of it was like abined explosive securely attached to his heart, because it was beating so wildly, he was scared it would pop.

    Without preamble, she stood up yet again.

    "It has been a lovely evening, sir. I enjoyed the music... and the food," she added nervously. "But I really have to go now. My little brother has no one else to look after him, so I must go now. Thank you so much," she said, wringing her hands.

 Chapter 385 Unknown feelings

    <h4>Chapter 385 Unknown feelings</h4>

    Edward wanted to protest. He honestly wished he could spend a little more time with her, but he thought better of it.

    He could not afford to admit that to her, especially not after making it out like he was just here to while away time.

    "That''s all right," he said calmly, rising to meet her. "Song Yu and I will drop you off at home, then. Come on," he said, starting to leave.

    He paused when he realized she was still standing. "Is there a problem now, Red?" he asked, eyebrows raised.

    "Well, thank you for the offer, sir, but I would really like to go alone. I''ll be just fine." She hurriedly left, finding her way to the small service elevator, and merging with the crowd already milling out of the arena. The ride home was riddled with thoughts of Edward.

    Thoughts of how many times she wanted to reach out and take his hand. She knew he felt it too. Because there was no other reason why he put down his bag of chips right next to hers.

    And even more intriguing that he became extra careful in picking up bits of his food with a deliberateness that said he was trying too hard to look like he was not trying at all.

    She smiled in azy, dreamy manner that earned her a few stares from fellow passengers on the bus. But she could not be bothered. She just wanted to savor this feeling however long itsted.

    *********

    "Edward, you ripe bastard! Do you mind telling me why you missed bar night?" Henry asked, mming the door behind him as he settled down on one of the seats in Edward''s study.

    Edward paid him no attention, taking small sips out of his crystal ss somberly.

    "Yah Henry, you fool, you nearly tore my face off when you mmed that door,"Jun Mo, thundered, announcing his presence in his friend''s home.

    "Stop yelling at me for a second and focus on Edward instead. Silly bastard is acting up and I demand an exnation. He doesn''t even consider us worthy of being spoken to."

    Henry mocked yfully, poking at his friend''s arm. Edward remained silent, finishing off the rest of his drink and getting up to pour some more.

    "You, what did you do upset Edward now?" Jun Mo, the most reserved of all of them asked, smacking Henry upside the head yfully after he had dropped therge bag of snacks they had brought with them on the floor.

    "Ow! Jun Mo, what was that for?"

    "You guys, seriously. Shut up for a second," Edward shushed the men who were busy arguing like toddlers.

    "Edward, you haven''t spoken since we got in here and you missed bar night. What exactly is going on?" Jun Mo asked looking at Edward with concern.

    Bar Night was the one night in a month that they all got together to drink beer and catch up with each other.

    No one was allowed to miss it except good reason and with prior notice. Edward had not bothered with either one. And that was making his friends worry.

    When Edward still did not answer, Jun Mo took it upon himself to ask again. "Is it something with work or those investors?"

    Edward remained silent, so Jun and chipped in. "Did anything happen with the business number two? ording to the news, there''s been a series of insecurity issues in towntely, is it that? I can almost bet that the upheaval is throwing stones in the path of your search."

    "Seriously Edward, you''re worrying us. Can you fucking speak? "Jun Mo probed; his face frowned in worry. The earlier yful atmosphere of the room had ceased as everyone now felt tense.

    They waited with bated breaths for Edward to say something. This was out of character for him. He was a lot of things but moody and distant was hardly one of them.

    "Well then, Edward, if you don''t speak up right now, I''ll assume you''re experiencing girl trouble," Henry said, throwing his hands up in exaggerated exasperation.

    "Oh, please," Jun Mo responded, with a dismissive wave of his hand. "Edward would never have trouble with women. He is far too calcted and practical for such foolery," he concluded.

    Bute to think of it, a girl, making Edward Wu upset? That was just impossible, Jun Mo said to himself, shaking his head as if to clear it of the preposterous thought.

    There were only a few people Edward cared about except himself and they were his ``parents, god bless them, his sister, and the two men who currently upied the room with him.

    And maybe Mei Mei Chung. She was like his grandmother. But apart from those people, Jun Mo could almost swear that no one else mattered to his friend.

    No one could believe that he was sulking because of a woman, and it would have remained that way if he had not taken in a sharp breath at the word, girl.

    "Wait a second, Edward is it really a girl making you all moody and shit? A woman? An actual female? I can''t believe this," Henry cackled, throwing his head back.

    "Shut up Henry, you don''t know what you''re saying. Come on Eddy, tell us what the problem is, you''ve worried us enough." Jun Mo demanded, refusing to believe his ears.

    "Get off my back, you fucking idiots," Edward finally spoke up. He did not know what to do with himself. He had been drinking since he arrived home, unable to grasp how Amy could muster the nerve to walk out on him like that.

    It was even worse because now he was second-guessing himself and wondering if he had in fact deserved it. He was being a jerk after all, he supposed. But he had only tried to be honest

    . It would suck for the poor girl to get all up in her feelings only to have them thrown right back in her face. But now, why was he the one suffering for the disy ofck of tact, he wondered.

    And now, his idiot friends would not shut up about him and girls. Perhaps, he ought to have sweet-talked her and told her that it was in fact a date? Would that have made her stay, he wondered.

 Chapter 386 Gloomy thoughts.....

    <h4>Chapter 386 Gloomy thoughts.....</h4>

    But then, he might havee off as being too forward. One never really knew with women. She might have found another reason to be offended about how he did not even bother to ask her out properly, but instead, just dragged her along like she was some log of wood with no feelings and no thoughts.

    The more he thought about it, the gloomier he became. His head was starting to throb from too much thinking. And now, his friends were making things even worse by jesting.

    To ease himself even further, he walked towards the gramophone at the end of the room. Beside it was a stack of old records arranged alphabetically on a stand.

    He leafed through absentmindedly and found one of his favorites, then slot it in. the melodious music of Xian Xinghai filled therge study room.

    Edward made his way back to where his friends were seated, watching him like he were some strange new animal. He sat down and twirled his ss absentmindedly.

    "Oh, I think I know exactly what has gotten Edward here in his feelings," Henry said, springing up from his seat excitedly.

    "Do you all remember the pretty little thing we saw at his office the other day? I could see the lust written all over our man''s face, especially when she turned her back to us," he added looking eagerly at the other two to see if they were buying his idea.

    The suppressed looks on their faces said they did but were trying hard not to show it. Henry, of all the four of them,cked tact the most. Perhaps, he did not reallyck it. He just did not see the point of employing it.

    "Edward, is any of this foolishness he''s yapping about true?" Jun Mo inquired sternly. The others sometimes teased him about acting too old for his age. As if he were the father to the others.

    "There is absolutely no truth to it. I, however, have an interesting story concerning the girl," Edward responded.

    "Aha!" Henry chirped gleefully. He was so certain his suspicions were right.

    Jun Mo bade him be quiet and they listened attentively as Edward narrated the events that had transpired between him and Amy in his office, from the errand to the date at the music festival and the charged atmosphere between them and how he had dispelled it by quashing any hopes she might have been harboring about whether or not they had been on a date.

    He left the part about her refusal to ride with him back home because that would have only been more fodder for Henry to make stupid jokes about.

    "Oh, Edward!" Jun Mo eximed with a palm to his face. "How could you be so callous? That girl seemed like a nice young woman and if you cannot afford to court her like a decent human being, perhaps you should not even be with her at all." His exasperation was bare for all to see.

    But Edward thought different. "I was honest. There were sparks between us that we could no longer ignore, but don''t you think for one second that I would let her think I am about to fall in love with some na?ve little girl, because that really is the only reason I would be going through the stress of trying too actually date her when I, in fact, could be doing the good work and helping her learn the ways of the flesh, as I intend to," he said, beaming a confident smile, his mood greatly improved.

    He and Henry share an indiscreet fist bump. This was how he knew to be. He could not ept any form of vulnerability, especially not about a woman and in front of his boys.

    He felt pleased at himself. This was a total save. Now, these clowns would quit thinking he was up in his feelings because he had caught the love bug. His reputation was still very much intact.

    "Ipletely agree with Edward. Falling in love is for losers, no offence," Henry said nodding.

    "Of course, you would say that. You who have absolutely no regard for women. You think of them as toys in your obscene collection," Jun Mo chided.

    "Edward, it is your decision to make but you must know that whateveres of it is also your burden to bear. You are a hard man, I have no doubt, but the ways of women are beyondprehension.

    Just like the goddess, beware, lest this so-called na?ve girl goes stealing your heart like the goddess stole the elixir of immortality from Hou Yi," Jun Mo said, following through with Edward''s earlier reference to deity.

    "Be careful, Edward. Especially for the poor girl''s sake," he finished.

    "Oh, please! Is that grey hair I see on your heads?" Henry teased. "Because you are suddenly acting like wise old sages, when in fact, you are young men given to debauchery.

    Let my man here enjoy his moment with that nice piece of ass¡­" He was not done talking when Edward tackled him to the ground,nding him a few yful punches.

    "What?" Henry protested from his crumpled position on the ground. "She is just a piece of ass to you, is she not?" he asked, cing emphasis on the question.

    Edward felt strange feelings course through him. He wanted to punch Henry to a pulp for talking that way about Amy.

    He wanted to give him a stern warning that she was definitely worth more than such low sounding opinions of her. But what would that prove, he wondered.

    He knew the answer and it was not one he was willing to admit to himself, how much more his friends. So, instead, he got off Henry and resumed his position.

    When he reached for his wine ss, he saw that he had knocked it over during the mad dash for Henry.

    "You all need to fuck off," he said in a sulky voice. The two others stifled theirughter while Henry got up and tried to straighten his clothes out.

    They shared a few more drinks, brought in by Edward''s butler, while munching on the bits of biscuits and sweets Jun Mo had carried in earlier.

    Eventually, they took their leave of Edward, leaving him alone with wandering thoughts centered around Amy.

 Chapter 387 Dreams

    <h4>Chapter 387 Dreams</h4>

    That night, he slept fitfully, as usual. But this time, the nightmare warped brutally. The pool of blood and two bodies lying in the fast-clotting blood were still present, but this time, the woman was Amy. He awoke with a paralyzed scream, drenched in his own sweat.

    Once he had regained control of his erratic breathing, he reached blindly for his phone. It was always set on the little oak bedside stool every night before he dropped off to sleep. He felt around for it for a few moments to no effect.

    Frowning, he sat up, already angry at the minor inconvenience. "Where are you, stupid?" he muttered as if the phone could hear him speak. He slid his legs off the bed in an effort to scour the entire room, and that was when he felt something hard under his left thigh.

    He reached for it. It was the silly phone. He cussed softly as his mind brought back memories of how the phone must have gotten there. After his friends had finally taken their leave, he had spent some inordinate amount of time wondering whether or not to call Amy.

    But what could he possibly tell her? He could not admit that he was bothered about how their pseudo date night had turned out or that he was thinking about her more than was normal. More than he had ever thought about anyone else.

    He could not. Would not. So instead, he had settled for finding her on Instagram and carefully looking through her the tons of posts on her ount. He took extra effort to make sure he did not identally click on the like button any of the pictures, as that would blow his cover beyond repair.

    He had fallen asleep looking at a particrly beautiful picture of Amy, her red hair falling across her eyes and the top of her breasts clearly visible from her low-cut blouse. She looked lovely and happy.

    He sighed as he realized why she must have featured in his nightmare. She was slowly starting to carve out a corner for herself in his heart. But he was not ready for any of that.

    He could not bear such hurt ever again. He had to protect her and himself by any means possible. Which meant he had to stop cking and earnestly pursue the leads he hade across a few months before.

    He dialed a number on his phone.

    "Hello," Lei Zhao said gruffly into the phone, having picked up on the first ring.

    "We need to talk," was all Edward said back. Lei Zhao nodded with understanding on the other end, as the line went dead.

    Three hourster, both men shook hands in Edward''s study.

    "I need to show you something," Edward told Lei Zhao. His mood was dour and serious.

    Lei Zhao said nothing, only waiting for what his friend had to show him. Edward liked to discuss the more serious things with him, not only because he was older than the other two, but because he was always more mature, never asking too many questions and always ready to listen.

    Whenever they were in less grave situations, his seemingly extreme seriousness was a reason to taunt him, but Edward often found it helpful and oddlyforting.

    Edward moved towards his study table. He depressed a small red button at the bottom just beside the desk drawers.

    The heavy piece of oak furniture started to move. Slowly at first, but then all at once, until it waspletely out of the way.

    The ground beneath it was smooth marble just like the rest of the study room floor. Lei Zhao watched all of it with the disinterest of someone who had seen even more mind-numbing things.

    In truth, that was not the first time he would watch Edward reveal his "Other Room." While he watched, Edward tapped on the floor with his right foot three times in rapid session. That bit of ground measuring about six by three feet spun in a dizzying circle.

    A steeldder descending into the now open space glinted in invitation to the two men. Edward looked over at Lei Zhao. Silently, they took thedder downward, with Edward going inst so he could push the necessary buttons that would return the study room to status quo above them.

    The room they were now in was dim at first. Edward had not been here in a long time. He seemed to have been avoiding this ce and the unwholesome things it stood for. When he pushed the light switch however, the room became bathed in a dull glow.

    The array of weapons adorning the wall would have sent an innocent person into startled shock.

    But Lei Zhao was far from innocent. In fact, he was extremely well versed in the art and craft of the underworld. Which is why Edward had called on him again.

    "I started having those dreams again," Edward said tly, as he paced, stroking one weapon after another like they were the bodies of some exotic and highly sensual women.

    He picked up a Ruger Hawkeye Long Range Target and caressed it almost lovingly.

    The beautiful rifle had aposite stock which added weight and rigidity to it, and although Edward was hardly ever involved in any field work, he knew this would be one of his go-to if he ever had the need to put someone down.

    He was starting to have an increasing feeling that such a time would be upon him, and soon.

    "They never really went away, you know," he continued, pausing to look at Lei Zhao. "In fact, I think the horrible dreams might torment me all the days of my life until I''m safely in the ground. Especially if I don''t do anything about it."

    He put the rifle down on the rack and sat down on one of the wooden stools. There was something rustic about the architecture and furnishing of this basement armory.

    Something designed to make its upants feel ill at ease, unwee, disturbed. The longer one spent in the room, the more unsettled they became, needing to do something, to expend some energy.

 Chapter 388 The visit

    <h4>Chapter 388 The visit</h4>

    "You mentioned you had some leads thest time," Lei Zhao finally spoke. Always one to go straight for the solutions, he was already thinking of ways to help Edwarde to a quicker resolution of his troubles.

    Sadly, the men they were up against were some of the very best in the business. Lei Zhao hated to remember it, but he had suffered his biggest loss to date at their hands, when he thought his older brother was killed in an ident.

    It was why he could rte to Edward''s pain. They had both suffered extremely in the hands of these ruthless men and no matter how long it took, they were going to make certain they got justice for the ones they had lost.

    "I did, in fact," Edward responded to Lei Zhao''s inquiry. "Which is why I called you here today. I want to move in on them. See if I find out some more information. Because I have to find who gave the order.

    These people we found are worthless to me except as bait. How soon can you arrange a smart and efficient team for this purpose?"

    He looked at least ten years older than his age as he spoke to his friend. The toll that nightmare had taken on him seemed more intense than ever.

    "Consider it done, brother," Lei Zhao assured Edward, moving over to where he was seated, to give him a reassuring pat on the shoulder.

    Edward rxed visibly from the brotherly gesture but the knots on his neck did not go away.

    He nodded tiredly and shaking hands with Lei Zhao, he pushed the button that would let his friend back up into his outer study room.

    He would turn off the light in the Other Room and just sit there in the darkness for some kind minutes, trying to regain some semnce of energy before reappearing back up to face his actual tasks for the day.

    *********

    Amy woke up with a pounding headache tearing away at her head and with her eyes still closed, she wrapped her nket over her head, groaning.

    The aftermath of a panic attack was never pretty, and it fucked up her system a lot of the time. Okay, maybe it was not exactly a panic attack, she thought, rolling her eyes as she remembered Chynna used to always scold her for saying she had suffered a panic attack when all she had done was cry.

    But in her opinion, they were both the same. She had even gone as far as googling the symptoms of a panic attack before she started to concede to Chynna''s view. Being an overthinker had never been easy for her. From happy thoughts on the bus, she had gotten home and recreated the evening in her mind, analyzing Edward''s every word until she fixated on the one thing he had said to ruin everything.

    She had ended up crying about the fact that he did not like her even a little bit and he just used her to let off some steam. He had not really wanted herpany in particr, he just needed not to look stupid sitting up there alone listening to music like a lonely person.

    And that hurt worse than it was supposed to. The tears had flowed freely then, and once in that mood, she never really knew how to stop until she had used up all her energy and fallen into a tired sleep.

    "Hey, Red, what''s wrong, are you okay?" an adult male''s voice called out to her and she jumped up in fear, holding the rest of her nket tightly to her chest.

    "What are you doing here, sir? Don''t you know that this is breaking an entry? How did you even get in?!"

    She asked him with a shaky voice, even more frightened that he was smiling at her. Her thoughts werepletely disjointed at the moment. She felt like she was hallucinating.

    "No, it''s not. Gu Zhou let me in, right before he left for school. I mean, I assume he would have left by now. He did mention wanting to finish a game first," Edward said mischievously.

    He had been unable to focus on anything back at home. He had called Amy''s office and when no one answered, he phoned the front desk to inquire about her. He was informed that she had not clocked in for the day.

    The voice on the other end shakily added that they had thought the Edward and her had probably gone off to some meeting elsewhere.

    They were still apologizing profusely for the unintended slip up when he, against his better judgement, decided to bring himself over to Amy''s house.

    "Who are you?" Gu Zhou had asked when he got the door minutes back.

    "Just tell your sister Edward is here to see her," he had responded. He tried to put on his superior air, but he was shaking like a leaf, in truth.

    "Oh, you''re the mean one who''s always stressing my jiejie and keeping her tillte at night, eh? Do you know thest time she made me dinner? I can''t even remember," Gu Zhou said.

    Edward just stood there, his mouth slightly agape. So that was what Amy had told everyone about him, he thought sadly. He could hardly me her though.

    "Come in and sit down. I think my sister is still sleeping but I''ll tell her her boyfriend is here," Gu Zhou said, chuckling in the mischievous ways of an almost teenager as he ran off to find Amy.

    Edward had walked into the living room and shown himself to a seat, he regarded the humble apartment with eyes of wonder. He was usually surrounded by so much affluence that he almost never remembered that people still lived simply like this.

    He got up and walked over to the portrait of Amy''s parents. He was still staring at it when after what felt like an eternity, Gu Zhou reappeared and announced that Amy would not wake up, but that Edward was free to go into her room to try and make her open her eyes.

 Chapter 389 The visit(2)

    <h4>Chapter 389 The visit(2)</h4>

    He had an online game to y with some of his friends before school. He announced the importance of a CEO conducting the proceedings of a huge merger or acquisition.

    Edward could already feel himself warming up to the youth. He smiled at the retreating young man before making his way inside.

    He felt like a thief in the shadows but since he had signed up to do something this silly, he would as well have to see it to the very conclusion.

    He located Amy''s room after an awkward stumble into the kitchen and when heid his eyes on her sleeping form, he felt his heart leap. He pulled up the chair closer to her bed and stroked her silky red hair.

    "Red," he muttered, inhaling deeply. Against his better judgement, he could feel his manhood stiffen with arousal.

    He was d she was not awake to see him be so affected by her mere existence. He could see she had slept nearly naked, as the nket had pulled away from her body in her sleep.

    He admired her smooth thighs, tracing the air not more than a centimeter above them. He wanted so badly to get into bed beside her and press his tumid dick against her firm, round ass.

    The fact that he could not both annoyed and aroused him even more. He watched her toss and turn, then turn again.

    He figured she must be starting to wake up, so he moved back and tried an old trick he used to use whenever he was trying to distract himself from sexual thoughts.

    But try as hard as he could to conjure up ugly images of gross things in his head, all he could see was beautiful, sleepy Amy.

    The one who was stealing his heart truckful after truckful. When she pulled the nket over her head, he figured she had finally been released from the throes of sleep.

    In all honesty, he had not meant to startle her, so when she jumped at his words, he could not help but feel amused.

    And now, she was staring at him with a quizzical look on her face.

    "What are you doing here so early in the morning?" She was less scared and more intrigued now. What was wrong with her boss?

    She could not have imagined this even in her wildest dreams. It was all she could do not to ask him to pinch her so she could be sure that this was not just a figment of her imagination.

    "Oh, my dear Red, it really is not all that early. The sun is out but you were too busy sleeping to know that," Edward retorted, trying to get some of his bitingness into the conversation.

    He had no idea how to exin away this odd visit to Amy. He would have to stall her by being his usual brash self, he figured. "I can see you took today off, then," he continued in the spirit of annoying her.

    "No, sir," Amy said, as if only suddenly remembering the precarious position she was in. somehow in her head, she must have thought this was a weekend, especially after the kind of night she had had.

    "I have a really bad headache and I¡­ I¡­" she was at a loss as to what else she could say. "I''m sorry," she said, lowering her head and wringing her hands.

    "If it''s okay, I''ll just take some painkillers and hurry off to the bathroom. I should be ready in no time if you don''t mind, sir."

    Edward merely stared at her, relishing her difort. He felt like a bad person for enjoying seeing her so rattled, but something about how vulnerable she looked in this moment excited him more than he was willing to let on. He just sat there, smiling at her without saying anything.

    "Sir?" she prompted; her voice shaky with apprehension. ''Oh my god, Amy! You are so stupid and now you are going to get fired without a doubt,'' she thought in panic.

    But then, she could not help but wonder why he was smiling. His actions were constantly leaving her puzzled and at a loss for any reasonable exnation.

    He still had not told her why he had snuck into her house uninvited. He could not possibly havee here just to stare at her and smile.

    The more she wondered about his motives, the more her curiosity piqued and her headache along with it.

    "It''s okay, Red. You don''t have to do any of that," he said finally. "In fact, you can have tomorrow off as well," he added sighing deeply, the wide, unsettling smile leaving his face only to be reced by worry lines as he ran a hand through his hair.

    There was a startled expression on Amy''s face. She could not have masked it even if she tried. Edward saw it and decided to juste clean.

    "You can stop looking like a rabbit caught in headlights," he teased. "I just feel terrible after everything that happened yesterday.

    I had meant to lighten your burdens but instead, it turns out I might have ended up annoying you even more. The things I said to you yesterday¡­" he paused.

    "I actually mean well, you know. I just don''t know how to be like the rest of you all." he ended and chuckled sadly.

    He felt stupid for disying so much weakness and exining himself, but he just could not bear to see her so bothered without offering any exnations.

    Anyway, like I said, take the day off and then some. But remember, when it''s back to work, it''s back to work. No excuses," he ended regaining some of hisposure.

    "Yes, sir," she nodded. "And thank you. I really do appreciate you being this kind to me," she added, relief coursing through her like a waterfall.

    "But you do realize that showing up to my house so early in the morning is just downright creepy, just so you know," Amy told him, a smug smirk on her face feeling pleased that she could get on over him too.

 Chapter 390 The Stare

    <h4>Chapter 390 The Stare</h4>

    Edward felt stupid. No one had ever made him feel this stupid ever in his entire adult life, and it was really a legendary feat, he had to give her that.

    Unable to wipe the smile on his face, he got up from her chair.

    He would have to think up other ways to put one over her just as well. The game was on, he thought tedly.

    "If only I did not just give you two off days, I could have been your ride to work.

    I''m very certain you''re dying to feel the plushness of my car again." It was evident that he was making a joke.

    Amy keyed into the fun. "Won''t your other employees talk, sir?" She questioned acting exaggeratedly coy, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

    She made to stand up from her bed, but a dizzy spell made her lose her bnce and she started to fall, iling her arms in front of her.

    But she never reached the ground, regaining a semnce of bnce as she plopped back onto the bed.

    She had really outdone herself on the crying bout this time, she figured.

    Edward was rmed at her wobbly behavior but watched her get it under control quickly enough before he could react, so he carried on like nothing had happened at all.

    "Why, of course, they will talk. In fact, they''ll say the new girl has put a meili on the boss. Some might even want to attack you just to save me.

    Especially the women. I am hot stuff, you know," he winked, standing up and closing the small space between the chair and her small bed.

    He imagined his hands digging into her hair and pulling her to him, as he took a generous sniff of the bouncy curls.

    He had wanted to do this for so long and now even though it was all just an imagination, he could hardly bring himself to stop.

    That is until his hands, acting on their own ord, started to travel down the length of her body, pausing to feel the smoothness of her back from beneath her c-shaped tank top.

    Soon, his right hand slid even lower until he could feel her bare posterior, or what was left of it, sitting in bed as she was.

    He stuck his hand further under the fleshy mound of ass and cupped it greedily.

    He pictured Amy''s face rapidly starting to turn tomato red when she realized that one of her boss''s hands was cupping her ass, while the other remained in the small of her back.

    Edward brought his head back up from her shoulder where he had buried his nose in her hair.

    His stare seemed to burn into her face and she looked away, unable to hold his intense gaze.

    It made her feel some type of way that she could not understand; her heart palpitating in her rib cage so hard that she thought it would explode.

    The thought was so vivid he almost had difficulty snapping out of it.

    "Since you''re going to be staying home today, how about I make you breakfast? Would you like that?" he asked gently, letting go of her in his mind''s eye.

    Amy nodded quite puzzled but also pleased as she pulled her tank top down to cover her naked buttocks, as if only suddenly realizing that they had been too exposed.

    "I stumbled into your kitchen trying to find my way here earlier. Now let''s see if I can find my way back and prove my mastery as a culinary chef to you," he bragged,throwing his suit jacket on her bed and folding his sleeves back, dark ink marks signifying that he had tattoos, peeking out.

    There was a boyish smile on his face as he winked to her, undoing two of the top buttons of his shirt.

    ''Lord, help me,'' Amy thought as she smiled back at him. He turned to leave, without waiting for Amy to lead him into her small kitchen.

    She watched him go, suddenly feeling self-conscious and embarrassed about the size and state of her kitchen, and her house atrge.

    She quickly slipped out of bed and rushed to her closet. She pulled arge oversized t-shirt out of the pile of roughly folded clothes and threw it on.

    Then she tucked her hair behind her ears. As she hurried out of the room to catch up with Edward, she caught a reflection of herself in the mirror and shook her head.

    ''You look absolutely crazy, girl,'' she thought as she saw herself, her hair ruffled and sleep lines still marking the left side of her face.

    She quickly rushed to the bathroom, sshed some water on her face and swallowed some mouthwash.

    Tossing it around for a few seconds before finally spitting it out.

    She wiped her mouth with the back of her hand and rinsed it under the running tap.

    "Ah, much better," she said, smiling. There was a tingling sensation coursing through every inch of her.

    ''Edward is here. And he is making me breakfast! I cannot believe it!'' she thought excited almost to bursting point.

    She entertained the thought that maybe it really was all some very lucid dreaming and that when she eventually made her way to the kitchen to join him, she would wake up to the rude shock of his absence.

    She was wrong. When she finally stepped foot into the kitchen, she found him still very much there. He had his back to her and was working with all his focus.

    She stood at the door, watching him knead dough. The movements of his arms were firm yet his fingers had a certain tenderness to the way they molded and remolded the all-purpose flour.

    Amy felt moisture gathering between her legs and shrieked softly at the realization that she had forgotten to put on some panties.

    She was about to turn and flee when he raised his head and looked right at her as if he had known she had been there watching him the whole time.

 Chapter 391 The desire

    <h4>Chapter 391 The desire</h4>

    "Come to make sure I don''t cook you some delicious poison?" he asked yfully.

    "Well, no. I¡­ I just thought you would maybe get lost again or maybe you would not be able to find where I keep stuff but it appears you''re doing just fine without me," she responded, trying not to be continuously tongue tied around him.

    "You underestimate my capabilities, Red," he said, never losing a beat with the kneading.

    He had been smiling still, but something about the way he said thatst sentence made Amy shiver with desire.

    She could feel her nipples harden in response. And even though she willed her body to stop reacting to the man as much, she knew she was absolutely helpless against him and his charming aura.

    He worked fast. Or maybe time had be warped somehow and thus no longer counted in the way she knew it, but soon the dough was separated into small sections and he stuffed them with the already cooked Chicken mince and then folded the edges together, so they looked like small satchels.

    All that was left toplete the look would have been tiny fancy gold threads tied around their puckered tops.

    When the food was ready, Amy helped hisy the table. Her first bite into the bun tasted like all the heavens in one ce. Her pte exploded with vors.

    "Where on earth did a spoilt brat like you learn to cook so good?" she asked, not even realizing what she had called him.

    All she could think about was the fluffy goodness filling her mouth with delight.

    He flinched inwardly at thement, but showed no outward annoyance.

    "Mei Mei Chung taught me," he said matter of factly. "I know a whole lot more, but I could barely find anything in your kitchen to cook with, which is why I settled for making you some of these babies," he added, gesturing towards the tes of food before them, with a self-assured smile.

    Amy''s face med hot red with embarrassment. He probably thought of her as irresponsible now, because her house was an untidy mess and there wasn''t any food.

    She made a mental note to go shopping for groceries as soon as he was gone.

    Presently, she had just one focus and that was to cram herself full of as many of these delicious buns as she could manage without getting sick. She ate them quickly, in big, greedy bites.

    Edward watched her, fascinated by her appetite but more importantly, he was pleased with himself.

    Pleased and proud that he could have done something so satisfying and enjoyable for her.

    He nibbled slowly on his buns, engrossed as he was in his enjoyment of her enjoying his cooking.

    It was true that Mei Mei Chung had taught him some great skills in the kitchen but he could not recall ever having had to use them for anyone but himself and even that was rare seeing as he had a whole kitchen staff at his beck and call forever ready to cook up a storm if he so much as lifted his finger in request.

    He did not have to anyway, as there was always a hearty meal whenever he had need of eating at home.

    From staring at her, his eyes fixated on the movement of her lips, how they curled around the food, her jaws working as she chewed on the cooked dough, separated the spicy flesh of the chicken from the less tasty flour balls.

    He wanted that mouth on his. He wanted it so bad, he could hardly keep himself from pulling her to himself from the other end of the table.

    After what felt like an eternity with her head buried in the food, she looked up to pick up her ss of water.

    Their eyes met and for a second Edward could swear the room temperature increased by several degrees.

    On her end, it felt like she was sitting right in the middle of a hurricane. She felt faint from the intensity of his gaze.

    While they stared intently at each other, the doorbell chimed. It went unheard for a few seconds until Amy seemed to hear it from a distance.

    She jumped up startled. She was not expecting any guests. No one ever really visited her and Gu Zhou except Chynna and thetter was on a modelling trip outside of the country.

    So, she paused for a moment, hesitant to get the door. The urgent chime of the bell came again and this time, her feet propelled her towards the door. She reached it and pulled it open to see something surprising.

    "Delivery from the Super Brand Mall for Ms. Lee," said thenky young man standing in front of Amy''s front porch.

    She blinked a couple of times, confused as to what the fellow was doing in front of her house. She could not remember having ced any orders for any anything.

    "Are you she?" the store person asked when Amy made no effort to respond.

    "Yes, but¡­" she nodded, but tried to tell him he probably had the wrong address.

    "We received a call a little over an hour ago asking that we deliver some household stuff and groceries to this address," the fellow said, pushing past her as he began to bring the bags of shopping inside.

    "So then, who is going to pay for all of this?" she eximed, following him inside.

    "It has all been paid for, ma''am," the store agent responded, hardly even looking at her as he shuffled between her living room and front porch.

    A few minutester, he was done bringing in the purchases, after which he got into the store truck and pulled out from her premises.

    She turned to see Edward smiling at her bewilderment and that was when the truth dawned on her.

    "Did you do this?" she asked, walking swiftly towards him. She already knew what the answer was, but she wanted to hear him say it. She could not ce the reason why, but she was getting visibly angry.

    "I had to," he shrugged. "I figured you had run out of stuff and I still had one more recipe to dazzle you with. And judging by how ravenously you ate up thest one, I cannot help but think I made the right call."

 Chapter 392 The confusion

    <h4>Chapter 392 The confusion</h4>

    She plopped into the dinning chair, all of the annoyance seeping out of her. It was futile to try and fight this man.

    He was so arrogant in how he assumed control of everything about her and she knew she could never beat him at this cat and mouse game even if she tried, so she just gave up and let him do exactly as he pleased.

    "Well, since it appears you already signed up to be my personal chef and errand person today, how about you give me a hand in putting all these things away?"

    It was more of an order than a request in the way she let the wordse out.

    "Oh, wow! Is that all the thanks I get?" he asked yfully, standing up and spreading his hands out in mock surprise.

    "I don''t remember asking you to buy me the entire mall," she retorted, standing up and going over to the heap of groceries.

    She picked up two bags and started towards the kitchen. He followed her lead, carrying at least four bags in both hands but with the ease of someone to whom strength was a loyal ally.

    She was getting bolder by the second, or so it seemed. He liked it, yet he was wary of it. The joint feeling it produced in him was an intoxicating curiosity.

    He would follow this rabbit hole just see what was at the end of it. They stacked the goods in the appropriate ces, with Amy mostly directing him on what to put where.

    She was extremely pleased to have him do the most work, using his height as a huge advantage.

    Usually, when she stocked up, she would have to climb onto a stool before she could reach the topmost rack but he only had to stretch a little and his hands would get the jars and boxes where they needed to go.

    Minutes into the activity, she wondered again what had prompted him to spend so much money on her, getting her brands that she would have never gone near while shopping for herself due to the high price tags.

    "You really should not have bothered, sir," she said when he eventually finished putting away everything.

    "But thank you. This is very well appreciated," she added, giving him a shy smile.

    In that moment, she looked so beautiful and so pure, Edward almost shivered as he remembered his nightmare.

    He knew in that instant that he would not want to lose her. The feelings were so real and so present that he wanted to pull her into a fierce hug and squeeze her so tightly to himself it would feel like his sole aim was to crush her.

    But he did not. They just stood there gawking at each other until Amy found her voice.

    "Well, did you not say you had another recipe of Mei Mei Chung''s to dazzle me with?" she had her arms folded across her breasts.

    Edwardughed. It was so easy to do that when he was around her now. He found himself looking forward to it.

    "You can''t afford my expertise, Red. So do not get ahead of yourself. Those dumplings are the best you have had in your life, I''m sure," he bragged.

    Amy wanted to argue but they had been really delicious and a part of her wanted to experience what his other cooking would taste like, so she just stood there, smiling happily. He caught her smile and returned it in full measure.

    "I have to go now,'' he said, almost regretfully, "But I guess I''ll see you back at the office in a day?"

    She nodded. It was almost painful to watch him go. She wished he would never leave. She felt a sudden desire to want to share her day with him, including the mundane and seemingly unimportant bits.

    But he was already out the door, and she found herself alone again with nothing but her thoughts and the lingering smell of his manly musk mixed with what Amy was sure to be one of the most expensive body mists in the province.

    *****************

    Nearly a week had passed since Amy returned to the office. On the very next day following her return, she had attended to her boss expertly.

    The affairs of the other day had note to y at all in her handling of her duties. She went through the motions like a robot, taking his messages, serving his coffee but by the end of the day, she felt a lot more tired than she was used to feeling.

    Yet she brushed it off as nothing more than the stress of work. She even gave herself a mental high-five tomend herself for doing so well.

    But at the end of the first three days, she was starting to really wonder if she was not doing herself harm by pretending that all was well.

    Because at the end of the day she had to tell herself the honest truth that she was in fact merely carrying on a fa?ade of being okay when on the inside, all of her was going to pieces wondering if she had imagined the intimate moments they had shared at her house not many days prior.

    Or perhaps she had read too much meaning into a harmless visit, she wondered. But then again, she was certain bosses did not just show up at their employee''s homes and offer to cook them breakfast out of nowhere.

    Or maybe she had not gotten the memo when workce culture drastically changed.

    She knew she was just in denial, trying to ease the stress of acting like there was nothing between her and Edward but she also realized that she did not have much of a choice to begin with.

    He was acting just as cool and detached and she had to follow his lead. It felt a little bit unfair that he seemed to be at the reins both at work and otherwise.

    She felt like a puppet on a string dancing to his every whim and caprice. And very slowly she started to notice that there was a budding resentment in her heart for Edward but she acted tough even though all the walls seemed to be copsing around her.

    Unable to keep the tough act going, she did the one thing she was sure would help her understand and wade through her confusion and hurt.

 Chapter 393 Red

    <h4>Chapter 393 Red</h4>

    Chynna wasted no time in showing up at her friend''s home. Both girls hugged each other and clung tightly to themselves as if they had been twin sisters long estranged from each other when in fact one person had only travelled for a short time.

    Finally, they let go of each other and then sat down to mugs of hot chocte.

    Chynna listened with rapt attention as Amy spilled the tea filling her friend in on the events that had happened in her short absence.

    It took a whole lot of self-discipline for Chynna not to interject, but as soon as Amy sounded like she had finally reached the end of her long and harrowing ordeal at the hands of Edward, Chynna jumped in and eximed,

    "I literally cannot believe it! So, you had the might Edward Wu in this very house cooking you breakfast?!"

    She sped a hand to her mouth in exaggerated surprise. Although, not much of it was exaggerated.

    She was genuinely surprised that her friend had experienced something a lot of women would sell their very souls for. It was not every day a girl had a millionaire kneading dough in their kitchen.

    And to none other than the Edward Wu himself. In fact, it never happened at all, except in the movies.

    And Amy was starting to live the perfect movie as it were. "Damn!" she said again in near unbelief. The entire tale felt surreal to her.

    "Chynna, stop it," Amy begged, her face as red as a beet from embarrassment.

    "I apologize, my darling, but your story just has me speechless, is all," Chynna said, leaning over to stroke her friend''s shoulderfortingly.

    "I swear to God, Chy, I could not possibly make this up. I''m not that imaginative," Amy replied.

    Her eyes were sunken from lots of crying. She had been forced to wear more makeup than she had ever needed ever before, just to hide ck bags under her eyes.

    "Wow. So, is he your boyfriend now? Are you both together?" the now dirty-blonde inquired, wiggling her eyebrows mischievously.

    Amy rolled her eyes. "Come on, Chy. Have you even been listening to a word I''ve said the whole time?"

    She was too tired for games and she needed Chynna to realize that. But her friend was such a goofball, she hardly ever took anything seriously.

    "Well, it''s hard to follow up with the maze that you just narrated," Chynna shrugged. "But seriously though, you love him, don''t you?" she added, grinning wickedly.

    Amy knew she could never lie to her friend but she was not sure of what she was feeling herself.

    "I don''t know. It''s not that simple, you know? He''s my boss and seeing him every day just makes things a lot moreplicated. I wish I could just quit and run away somewhere far ..."

    Chynna interrupted her. "It''s all right. I was just teasing you. You''ll be fine. You''re with me now.

    You''ll be just fine, I promise you," she stood up and enclosed her friend in her arms. Already, a plot was forming in her head, but she knew Amy would kill her if she so much as mentioned it.

    But then, she would need an ally. She had just the perfect man for the job, she thought, smiling into the distance where her friend could not see.

    When Chynna eventually left, Amy picked up a book just to while away time before she could go to sleep. She was still reading when her phone started to chime.

    Amy paused, closing the book and marking it with her finger, and then she picked up the phone call, leaving the living room to the safety of her bedroom.

    "Hello Red, how are you doing?" came Edwad''s voice strongly through the earpiece of her phone.

    Amy groaned and flopped on her bed face first. "Why do you insist on calling me that? Can''t you just call me Amy like everyone else?" she asked bitterly.

    She almost could not care for manners anymore. She wondered how he could ignore her all week, only to call now and act all chummy, inserting nicknames as he pleased.

    "You know why I call you that." Edward responded, unable to stop the silly smile that was stered to his face.

    There was something about the way she made him feel, but he was d she could not see it now.

    He had tossed and turned in bed every night since their encounter at her house, but he had to put up a strong front.

    Why he was calling her now, he was unsure. But he knew he would find something eventually.

    "You call me Red because I have red hair, everyone can see that and it''s very unoriginal, sir"

    She had gotten up from her bed and was now sat at the window sill, ying with her pastel colored curtains.

    "That is part of the reason, but not the main one."

    "Come on Edward, tell me what the reason is then."

    "Because¨C" Edward started to chuckle and Amy just knew that it was a joke at her expense.

    "Oh my God, it''s something that makes fun of me, isn''t it?" she attempted to be stern but there was a huge smile on her face while she spoke, and it reflected in her voice.

    "I call you Red because you''re always red as a tomato."

    "I am not!" She yelled, turning around and marching over to her bed but not sitting down.

    "Look in the mirror then, let''s know whether that''s true or not," He then simply requested, his voice suddenly sounding deeper than before.

    "I¨C" She couldn''tplete her statement, because he was right. True to his theory, Amy had cheeks and ears a light crimson shade, the rest of her face catching up.

    "Well, am I right?"

    "I will never admit that to you," she replied in an attempt to sound casual, but her voice letting her down and cracking instead.

    "You don''t have to; I already know it''s true."

    Edward was quiet. He wished that he could see Amy''s face while she blushed, that lopsided smile that she gave, and the awkward littleugh. She was so small and he would like to corner her into a wall, see how she reacted to that.

 Chapter 394 Mixed signals

    <h4>Chapter 394 Mixed signals</h4>

    "Um¨C"

    "Yes, Red?"

    "I really do look red right now," she said, biting her lip.

    ''Why did I just say that?'' Amy silently yelled at herself in her head, facepalming.

    He had missed her. That was the sole reason he had made this call, but as the tone of their conversation took a different hue, he quickly checked himself.

    "I er... I was just calling to make sure everything is set for my meeting tomorrow," he said tly. Bile rose all the way to his throat.

    He realized what he was doing to her- the rollercoaster ride on which he had carelessly tossed her was brutal and unfair but he just could not help it.

    She swallowed hard as she pped her head some more. ''Stupid, stupid girl! Did you really think he called to flirt with your stupid ass?''

    "Yes, sir. Everything is ready," she answered humbly. "Okay then. Thank you. Later, Red."

    "Later, Edward... sir," she quickly corrected herself.

    The call got disconnected and Amy stared at the nk screen for a few seconds, unable to make sense of anything.

    She made a decision right there and then. There would be no more Edward, even if it meant giving up her position at WuCorp.

    She would rather wait tables than be subjected to such inhumane torture all in the name of some stupid childish romance with the man who handed out her paychecks.

    ***

    "Was that your little girlfriend?" Henry Liu asked, a mocking smile on his face.

    "Personal Assistant, Henry" Edward corrected, putting down his phone and taking up hisptop to attend to a few urgent emails. He refused to give his friend the time of day.

    Tonight was supposed to be Bar Night again and his friends were waiting for him to finish up work so they could all go out together. They did not much trust him, especially after thest time.

    They had been ribbing him all through the evening since their arrival. Which was part of he had called Amy but he just could not go through with the dare they had ced on him.

    He was supposed to have gotten her tomit to a few minutes of phone sex to prove she was as into him as he imed she was. As a consequence, all the drinks were on him tonight.

    "I thought she was your secretary?" Henry Lu piped in in his usual serious way.

    "Secretary, personal assistant, what''s the difference really?" Jun Mo asked the other two friends in an attempt to shield Edward from embarrassment, but, Edward did not even seem to mind any of them.

    He mmed hisptop close and announced that Bar Night was underway. The boys cheered loudly, Lei Zhao managing only a simple smile. He would go out and drink himself to forgetfulness because from where he stood, there seemed to be nothing else he could do.

    ***************

    "You know, Chynna, I hate him."

    "Hate who?" Chynna asked surprised, letting out a loud belch after a healthy swallow of yellow wine.

    "Edward Wu." Amy said his name, attempting to sound condescending but not seeding.

    "But whyyyyyy?" Chynna replied almost drunkenly, taking another sip from her nearly empty wine ss. She felt so good, she could dance.

    She had always been known to be lightheaded and she seemed to be letting loose even more than usual tonight.

    "I hate him because he''s sooooooo hot. Oh, no. You know I don''t mean that. It''s because he''s arrogant and annoying and he always looks at me like he''s trying to find out my secrets, and it makes me want to tell him everything.

    But then, he switches up on me so fast, I do not know how to react. I find that very disturbing and I know what you said thest time we had this conversation, but I sure don''t think I''ll be anywhere near fine if I keep letting him treat me like trash and get away with it."

    The redhead sighed, disregarding the wine ss that sat on the floor beside her and taking a swig directly from the bottle.

    As if she were a robot, Chynna snapped out of the drinking spree and picked up her phone. It was time to put her n in motion, before her friendpletely lost it.

    "I''ll be back," she said to Amy in a poor Terminator mimicry. She stepped away and onto the front porch where she dialed a number. After a couple of rings or more, the line connected.

    "Hello, Jun Mo," she said sweetly.

    "Hey. Chynna?"

    "Uh huh, it is I," she giggled. She could barely even hide how tipsy she was.

    "How are you?" Jun Mo inquired, ever the polite gentleman.

    "Perfectly fine, I am," Chynna responded, then giggled some more. "Do you want to meet up for some rice wine sometime," she babbled.

    "I''m sorry? What was that you said?"

    "Oh, I mean, for us to talk. Over drinks and stuff," she rified with great effort.

    "Oh, sure. That would be great, I suppose," Jun Mo affirmed hesitantly. He could not be sure what was going on. He decided it would be best to try and find out. "What is this going to be about, though," he asked softly, hoping his question would not hurt her feelings.

    "Aww, I''m such a pretty girl and you don''t even want to see me?" Chynna said, pouting sadly

    "Oh no! No, no no, I did not mean it like that," Jun Mo started to say but her loud, cacklingughter billowed through the phone, giving him reason to pause.

    "It''s all right. I really was just teasing you. But let us talk tomorrow, okay? I''ll tell you everything then. I am a little batty from all the wine I''ve been drinking all night. I probably sound a little cuckoo," she gestured with her fingers to indicate one who had taken leave of their senses.

    Jun Mo nodded as if she could see him as the line went suddenly dead. He looked around wondering what kind of strange conversation that had been. He could not wait to find out the next day.

 Chapter 395 Busy for love

    <h4>Chapter 395 Busy for love</h4>

    A much more sober version of Chynna was seated before Jun Mo. She was dressed elegantly in a long, yellow sundress. Her sunsses were perched atop her head and served the dual purpose of pushing her hair out of her face.

    She sipped vored water and stared at Jun Mo. He looked a little uneasy, but handsome. She had never been able to get past how nice his features were.

    The perfect arch of his ck, bushy brows and his small, pouty lips. Her connection to Edward and his group of friends had never made it past being casual for the most part.

    Being children of wealthy and affluent parents, they had often been in the same circles but somehow, she seemed to want really different things than the others who were quite content to blend into the corporate world of business that their parents had carved out for them.

    And just when they might have been able to bond better in their adulthood, her career in modelling had taken off massively forcing her to spend more and more time away, sometimes, several weeks and even months touring different cities and sleeping with nothing but her soft hotel pillows.

    But she had always had a soft spot for this particr man seated before her in this moment. His calm and ostensible innocence seemed like a fitting bnce for her much more outgoing and exposed personality.

    She did want to discuss important things with him, but a part of her was just simply happy to be alone here with him.

    She thanked her friend, Amy for having a crisis at the right moment thereby enabling her o engage in a mission for which no one else would make a better partner.

    "It''s been a while," Jun Mo said, breaking the silence and forcing Chynna to the present.

    ''You look fantastic as ever,'' is what she wanted to say but opted instead for something less dramatic.

    "I see you have been well," she responded finally and in the most casual tone she could manage.

    "It appears you had quite the fun nightst night. Anything particrly worth celebrating happen?"

    He was smiling. It was a soft, almost imperceptible shift in his facial muscles but Chynna caught it.

    "Stop it!" she responded. Her hand shot out of its own ord and stuck him lightly across the arm.

    She hooted in surprise but Jun Mo merelyughed. He seemed pleased at her reaction to his teasing.

    They smiled at each other for a few seconds, and then Chynna blurted out her reasons for having called Jun Mo over.

    "Look, I know this might sound odd to you but I really, really need your help," she said.

    "Anything," he replied easily. "But what is it about?" he asked again.

    "It''s my friend, Amy. I know you must have met her. I think she has fallen in love with your friend Edward but those two are so, so stubborn and I just need to know if you have noticed anything about how your friend feels for her.

    To be quite honest, I am even more pressed to find out than Amy is. She does not even know I''m here," Chynnaughed nervously.

    Jun Mo looked like he had just been thrown into a crowd of und women. His face had turned a bright red.

    Thinking about Edward having feelings for a girl was one thing. Having to answer questions from the said girl''s friend seemed to be too much for him to take especially with the way Chynna had just unloaded it all on him without preamble.

    "Well, what do you think?" she prodded, after giving Jun Mo what she believed to be ample time to get a grip on his secondhand embarrassment.

    "Well... I... he..." Jun Mo stuttered. He did not know what to say. The others had tried to get word out of him concerning Amy but he had not let anything spill and now he did not know whether it would be his ce to share his own perceptions of the whole events.

    It would be bad to be the one who raised her hopes, because with his friend, he could never be too certain.

    If things turned out in such a way that they had all been wrong about Edward fancying her, he would not like to be in any way connected to whatever hurt the poor girl would have to go through.

    Chynna watched him intently as his thoughts flittered through his mind. She wondered if maybe this was too much trouble for him and was starting to regret it.

    She was just really trying to ease her friend''s suffering but it did not look at all like it would work out.

    "I have met your friend," Jun Mo spoke up, having finally found his voice. "She seems like a really nice young woman. And Edward says she does her job perfectly well.

    I think I can believe him because he is such a hard man to please and the few asions on which I''ve been privileged to see your friend attend to his needs at the office, Edward is not wrong at all."

    "But does he like her?" Chynna queried. She was starting to get impatient with Jun Mo''s ramblings.

    She needed to know whether she ought to be helping her friend prepare for the letdown it would be to find out that she really was not at all special to her boss.

    "I really cannot say, Chynna. You know, Edward is different..." Jun Mo sighed. He did not know if people on the outside could understand how his friend was.

    But he thought if anyone could try, then Chynna would. He would take his chances and exin it how best he could.

    "Edward has suffered some brutal losses in his life and I think it makes him a little closed off from anyone and anything that is not his business or his friends," he continued.

    Chynna could swear she saw him smile a little at the mention of thest bit. She smiled too in reaction.

    "But even the busiest of men have time for love, no?" Chynna asked.

 Chapter 396 The Plan

    <h4>Chapter 396 The n</h4>

    "Exactly. That is the thing with Edward. It is not just about time. My man is just, well... I don''t know. But I think ¨Cand please, do not quote me or tell your friend this, I beg you, but I think he might feel something for her.

    I have caught him staring for too long. I have noticed how his voice inflects when he says her name. But I cannot be sure. We will have to wait to find out."

    Chynna almost could not let him finish. She sprang out of her seat and did a happy dance.

    "I say we do not wait. Yes, let''s not wait to find out. If you think there is something there, and I know without a doubt that that fire head girl is smitten even though she would much rather talk about how much she hates him.

    We must help them get past their silly egos until they are forced to admit how much they really like each other." She squeaked with excitement, rubbing her palms together.

    "That is just meddlesome, you know?" Jun Mo said. "But even if I were to agree to such a thing, how would you propose we do this?" he pondered.

    "Oh, that, my darling, is exactly why you were just the perfect one for me to go to," Chynna beamed.

    She felt like an absolute genius in that moment. And even while standing, the perfect plot had begun to brew in her mind.

    The rest of the day was spent borating the entire n and funing same. The pair felt like undercover agents working on the most important mission and to be sessful, they would have to be extremely careful not to let anything slip.

    ************

    Chynna had exined every bit of the n to Jun Mo. It did not take long for him to understand just how right she was about everything.

    And how timely too. Because every year, his motherhosted a charity ball as her way of contributing to society.

    The money donated by attendants would be used to fund a notable project for the next one year.

    And there was always such a crowd of high-profile people from every sphere of endeavor.one of such events was due in about two weeks and Chynna though it would be a perfect ce for her and Jun Mo to work their charm on the unsuspecting Amy and Edward.

    Jun Mo had the easiest end of the task or so it would seem. All he had to do was invite his friend to the g. It was a given that he would say yes to attending.

    He was after all one of the most sought-after business persons anyone would want to have at an even like that and then, he would have to do it as a favor to his friend and as an extension of much needed courtesy to his parents.

    They would however, need an excuse for Amy to be present at the event and in thepany of Edward. But how they would achieve that posed a problem for a little while. But then it was not much of a problem.

    Jun Mo decided he would tell Edward that he was to chair the asion. This would mean he needed to take note of the donations made as he would have to follow up with payments made on pledges.

    He knew Edward would be too busy to want such a flimsy role. And that was the point. Once they had it all figured out, they enjoyed a few drinks and caught up on the very different lives they had been leading.

    When it was time for Chynna to leave, she felt a relunctance she could not ce. She wanted to stay, she wanted so badly to enjoy a little more time with Jun Mo but time itself seemed to have run out on them and darkness would soon fall.

    And so she forced herself to shrug it off. She focused on how she would tell Amy about the dinner.

    She knew her friend would want to opt out and run away screaming and so it was her duty to convince and calm her down in preparation for the big event.

    She busied herself thinking up different scenarios and how they would both react to them. She had so much fun she started tough all by herself in the car.

    But in her mental wanderings, she hit on a bright idea that she had not seening at all. She almost pped herself for noting to it immediately because it was brilliant! She could not wait to get to Amy''s.

    The weight of the news she was bearing was almost too heavy and was starting to crush her. She put her foot down on the gas pedal and raced towards her friend''s home. Her smile was at once happy and mischievous.

    *******

    "No way that is true!" Amy eximed. She had jumped up immediately Chynna broke the news to her. She put her hands on her forehead and her eyes were as wide as saucers behind her sses.

    "Chynna, you need to tell me exactly what is going on because this is so out of the blues and I do not know how to feel about it at all. I mean, why would Jun Mo want to take me to his mother''s g as a date? That is just unbelievable.

    It just never happens. I mean, I can bet he has a long list of women to get through before he even thinks of someone like me. This is..." she shook her head as words faild her in expressing her surprise at what Chynna had justid on her.

    Chynna just sat there, enjoying the show. She felt pleased on two levels. She would deal with the Jun Mo end of the dramater but for now, she had to relish this one and y along with it.

    Her bright idea had hit her on the way here and she had realized that she could very well take two birds off the branch with one stone if she threw her rocks well.

 Chapter 397 The Shopping

    <h4>Chapter 397 The Shopping</h4>

    "I was shocked myself, darling. And maybe even a little hurt but I tried not to show it. You are after all, a smart, beautiful woman. I suppose he must have noticed you on one of his many trios to see his friend.

    . You should be happy. He is one of the nicest men in the bunch and I am quite certain that he will treat you just as well as you deserve. And who knows, something else just might fall into ce after the dinner.

    So, now instead of freaking out and talking shit about my gorgeous friend, how about you focus on letting me use you as myb rat yet again? Because I have appointed myself as your self-proimed stylist yet again." chynna was really savoring all of it.

    She had no end to how much she loved to stir up excitement in herself even if she had to make others unwitting characters in the tales she was constantly weaving.

    Amy looked defeated. She sunk back into the couch and sighed. "Weird. This is all so weird, I tell you," she muttered under her breath.

    "Come here," Chynna said, pulling her away towards the bedroom.

    Minutester, the both of them were sitting between a pile of clothes with a drab look on their faces.

    "Amy, tell me how exactly you are going through life with not so much as one decent evening dress in your closet?!" Chynna asked. It was more of a tired and surprised exmation than anything else.

    "But why did he not ask me himself?" Amy asked suddenly as if she had not even heard Chynna talk at all. "What has this worlde to now? This is not how our parents used to do things in the olden days," she added for effect.

    Chynnaughed despite herself. "Oh, quit your whinning," she jabbed. "It''s your curse for having a loudmouth for a best friend. I am very certain that Jun Mo will do the right thing ande to you himself but he was just trying to see if he had any chances of you epting and that was why he told me.

    I sadly could not contain the excitement and spilled. So before you conjure up all the dead and gone ancestors of all China, you might want to pause and sit right next to your phone or hang behind your door, you never know through what medium he wille." she was starting to feel a little sick from all that lying.

    It came easily to her because she had an over active imagination but she had unwittingly woven herself intoa web of her own making and it was starting to get even more and moreplicated as more fine threads spun into existence almost of their own volition.

    Right now, she would just have to hope that her n seeds as she wanted and that Amy would forgive her in the end because she was doing all of it for love. But right in this moment, her focus was on getting Amy the right fit that would turn heads when the d-day came calling.

    "Get up," shemanded. "We are going to buy you something fit for a beauty like you."

    Amy looked up at her friend and just shook her head. She knew it was pointless to argue anything with her. It was even worse if one tried to do it when it involved looking as fabulous as waswfully permitted.

    She let Chynna drag her out of the room. It waste but she knew her friend did not have one patient bone in her body. She would drive through all the streets of China if that was what was required to find Amy that dress.

    ***

    Amy was thankful that the long drive she had anticipated had not happened. Apparently, her friend had a go-to ce for shopping nice clothes and essories. And they were open on all hours of every day.

    The best news of all was that Chynna was a premium customer. In fact, she held some sort of special membership card that gave her huge discounts on every fifth purchase. Knowing Chynna, Amy could tell she had spent something shy of a fortune at this establishment because such bonuses only came to the most valued customers.

    "Wee madam. Good evening, Ms. Chynna" a youngd who looked not a day more than neen greeted the two women respectfully with a deep bow as they stepped in. Amy was blown away by the ambience.

    The wall was designed in monochrome and the vibrant outfits nesting on the shapely mannequins were the pop of color that blended everything perfectly. She could already guess how much each outfit would cost and she felt like turning on her heels and fleeing leaving Chynna to deal with it all by herself.

    As if sensing what her friend was thinking, Chynna leaned in closer and linked arms with her and without even so much as looking over at Amy, she smiled sweetly at the young man who was standing by waiting to attend to their needs. "The evening dress section, please," she said, still smiling.

    "Of course, madams. Please, follow me," the young attendant said, starting out ahead of the two women. He walked in a way that was suggestive of the fact that he probably like boys. Chynna had seen a lot of them effeminates as people liked to call them but she found them only mildly interesting.

    They were just people to her. People with quirks like everyone else and in her line of work, she was ready for all kinds of surprises because she had seen some of her colleagues conclude on the sexuality of one of such people only to be shocked stiff when they were proved to have been grossly misinformed.

    She held off all such judgements until or if the subject ever found itfortable to bring it up in conversation.

    I I I

 Chapter 398 Bringing Flowers

    <h4>Chapter 398 Bringing Flowers</h4>

    In no time, they reached a different floor. Amy saw the biggest assemge of beautiful and expensive dresses she had everid her eyes on. They seemed to call to her and she felt an excitement previously unknown to her rush through her body so fast it made her tingle all over. She moved as if enchanted.

    The first dress she admired was a teardrop neck with spaghetti straps and intricately sequined bottom. She ran her hands over it lightly, as if afraid it would dematerialize before her very eyes if she felt it too hard.

    Chynna watched her with a smile on her face. Then she quietly slunk out of sight. She asked for and was shown to a restroom. She made her way there and carefully shut the door behind her. Then she took a few deep breaths and dialed Jun Mo.

    "There has been a little change in ns," she volunteered as soon as he picked up the phone. And then she spent the next few minutes exining the things she had already told Amy to a slightly befuddled Jun Mo about how the bright idea hade to her on her drive home.

    "So, we are presently shopping dinner dresses and she will be expecting you toe ask her to be your plus one like a proper gentleman," she finished.

    She could hear the silence on the other end of the line and she feared she might have ruined everything by taking things into her own hands.

    "But what about you? I had been hoping you would do me the honor of spending the evening in mypany," was the response that came out of Jun Mo''s mouth. It sent shivers down Chynna''s spine. The sweetness of it all had been unexpected and she blushed hard.

    She felt tongue tied for a brief moment and when Jun Mo asked again, she snapped out of it and responded frankly. "I would have been d to spend the evening with you," she paused as if to let the truth of it sink in.

    Then she went on, "It''s just, I think this would be a more perfect fit than the earlier idea we had. I realized we want the two of them to see each other as individuals outside of work. It would have been counterproductive to have them there at the party in their official roles yet again.

    They seem so used to a certain script and since we have taken on the noble task of helping them snap out of it, it is also our duty to help them along and so we have to pay the price for it."

    Jun Mo listened to what she was saying and it made sense to him. "You''re a smart one, Chy," he said fondly. She blushed and he blushed too but neither one of them could tell apart from the heavy breathing on both ends.

    It felt like a chore to put the phone down but eventually, they had to. But not before they worked out the basics of how to proceed. She returned to find Amy with a bunch of clothes in her arms and indecision securely etched onto her face.

    She burst outughing. It was a heartyugh and it got louder with every twitch in her friend''s face until they were bothughing and crying at the same time.

    "I am so d to see you''ve caught the bug. Now, you won''t expend so much energy berating me for having too many clothes and still buying more. There is an addiction to pretty things and the only cure is to buy more.

    And as a wee gift into this Pretty Things Anonymous, I say you can get all of it," Chynna said, gesturing to the clothes her friend was holding.

    Amy felt so moved she tossed the clothes away and pulled her friend into a bear hug. "Thank you, stupid," she said with emotion.

    Minutester, the dresses were all packed up for Amy. She bit her fingers watching Chynna pay for all of it. It was a debt she knew she would have to pay forward eventually. But for the moment, she just let herself be pampered. When Chynna dropped her off at home, she hugged her again and said a hearty thank you.

    "The only thanks I want is for you to be all dressed up bright and early tomorrow," Chynna said with a wink.

    "Wait, why?" Amy started to ask but Chynna had already revved her engine and was backing out of her driveway.

    Amy took her purchases inside quietly trying to avoid waking up Gu Zhou. She was so happy. And she had Chynna to thank for it.

    ******************

    She did not wake up bright and early at all. In fact, Amy awoke to Gu Zhou pulling her hair roughly.

    "Oh, will you stop that, you little demon!" she scolded as her eyes fluttered open.

    "Well, there is someone at the door. I looked outside but it wasn''t your boyfriend from the other day, I think maybe you should go and see who it is. I don''t want to get kidnapped anyway," Gu Zhou retorted.

    Amy pped his hand away. "It''s Saturday for god''s sake! Why can''t I get a decent night of rest?" sheined.

    "Maybe because you have too many boyfriends?" Gu Zhou said shrugging as if he had just stated a simple fact.

    "You better stop talking shit or I''ll personally send the kidnappers to you myself," Amy snapped at him.

    "Oh, please, we don''t even have any money. Nobody would want to kidnap a poor person like me," Gu Zhou rolled his eyes.

    Amyughed and ruffled his hair.

    "You''re just a riot," she said smiling. "Now get out and let me put on something appropriate before I answer the door." She shoved him towards the door of her room. He went dly.

    When Amy opened the door, she found a surprise in front of her.

    "Jun Mo?" she managed to say.

    "I was just about to leave. I thought maybe you were not home but then I saw a little boy peeping through the window. Is that your little brother?" Jun Mo asked. Before Amy could say anything, Gu Zhou had materialized between her and Jun Mo.

    "I''m not little. I''m a grown man," he protested.

 Chapter 399 Bringing flowers (2)

    <h4>Chapter 399 Bringing flowers (2)</h4>

    "Why, forgive my misassumption, kind sir. I see you doing your job and protecting the house. May I please make your acquaintance?" Jun Mo said good-naturedly.

    "I''m Gu Zhou Lee. Have youe to ask out my sister?" Gu Zhou replied.

    Jun Mo blushed and then stuttered. "It''s a littleplicated, you know. It''s..." he wanted to say how only grownups would get the nuances but he did not want to offend his new friend, so he just let it slide.

    "Well, you''ve brought flowers," Gu Zhou shrugged, pointing at the carefully tied bouquet of assorted flowers Jun Mo had in his left hand.

    "Right," he said, looking down as if he had forgotten. He probably had.

    Amy stepped in and shooed her little brother away.

    "Nice to meet you," Gu Zhou called over his back as he skipped away.

    Jun Mo and Amyughed awkwardly. Then he extended the flowers to her. She gracefully epted them.

    She pushed her hair back and tucked it behind her ear with her free hand. She figured she looked like a mess and regretted why she had not taken Chynna''s advice from the night before.

    "Come on in," she said, stepping aside to let him through.

    She offered tea and biscuit and while they munched on the food, they talked quietly.

    "I''m certain your friend already told you but I had to alsoe and ask you in person," Jun Mo said softly.

    "My parents, especially my ma, are hosting a charity event in the week to follow and I would like you to apany me as my date."

    it was a small task but it left him feeling more exerted than was normal. Perhaps, it was because he was aware of the deceit he and Chynna were weaving and he hoped that Amy would not see through it.

    In fact, it did not really matter if she did as long as she went along with it. He could not bear to be the one to destroy Chynna''s hard work because he would not be able to lie so brazenly to someone''s face if she so much as asked.

    "That is really sweet of you, Jun Mo," Amy said. "And I know Chynna put you up to this, so you need not worry about me getting angry or anything," sheughed softly. Jun Moughed along with her. He felt relieved.

    "Is that a yes, then?" he asked.

    "Why, of course. I have my dressid out and everything. I appreciate the gesture.

    You both are far too kind and this is a very wee distraction," she added, smiling up at Jun Mo.

    He breathed easier after her eptance and even though he knew she still had not grasped the entire picture, he felt lighter knowing that she had no expectations of him and that she had not misunderstood the entire situation to be more than it really was.

    His mission underway, he thanked her for the hospitality and asked to take his leave. She walked him to the door.

    "See you next weekend," he said, pausing at the door to face her. "I''lle pick you up two hours before dinner starts, if that''s all right with you," he said in a questioning manner.

    "I''d be d," Amy assented. Jun Mo bowed lightly to her and made for his car.

    She still had a smile on her face when she went back inside the house. She picked up the flowers and held them to her nose for short while.

    Then she went to her room to find a vase for them. This kind gesture by her friend and Jun Mo was enough to carry her through yet another rough week at the office with Edward and she was determined to savor all of it.

    But even more so, she was determined to have a good time with Jun Mo at the event. She would let her hair down a little, dance and drink and try to forget that her heart was rebelling against her by beating for someone who cared little or nothing for her.

    She sniffed the flowers again as she filled her makeshift vase with water and thanked the universe for small mercies.

    ***

    The week was a blur for Amy. She worked with one end goal in mind. Getting through to the weekend and going to the charity ball with Jun Mo.

    The annoyances Edward caused her were shoved to the back of her mind by thoughts of how much she was determined to have at the event.

    When she woke up on Saturday morning, she was almost bursting with excitement. She picked up the phone and dialed Chynna.

    It was an excruciating seven hours before her doorbell rang. She opened it up to see Jun Mo, dressed in a standard ck tux and a deep purple bowtie. She smiled.

    Chynna had helped her get ready and she was jittery but quite certain that she looked dazzling. When she took Jun Mo''s arm and let him lead her towards the limo parked outside, she felt like a princess.

    The drive down to the event center was characterized by a sprinkling of small talk between her and her date for the night. They arrived to a milling crowd of people dressed gaily for the event.

    But Amy felt another wave of gratitude to Chynna because she blended in quite well in her expensive dress. She let Jun Mo help her up the stairs and into the building.

    The lights were dim but the hanging decorations of hanging redntern string lights and cherry flowers. It was beautiful and breathtaking.

    Jun Mo greeted acquaintances and introduced her to most. She smiled politely, a sweet look that betrayed nothing of the excitement she was feeling at the moment.

    Her heart stopped in his tracks when they came face to face with the one thing she had thought she was trying to avoid even if only for a few hours. He looked just as shocked to see her but he did not let the feeling linger.

 Chapter 400 Jealousy

    <h4>Chapter 400 Jealousy</h4>

    "Jun Mo," Edward greeted his friend with a hand grasp and a pat on the back.

    Amy grabbed Jun Mo a little tighter. What had she been thinking, she wondered? Edward and the gang would be here of course.

    The four of them were inseparable really and if Jun Mo had to invite anyone to an event like this, it would be them. She tried not to scream.

    While she watched, Edward pulled Jun Mo away. He barely unlinked his arm and apologized quickly before stepping aside.

    "Jun Mo! What is she doing hanging on to you like that?" Edward asked in an urgent whisper.

    "She''s my date for the evening," Jun Mo said, stating the obvious. He enjoyed how Edward''s eyes zed and he seemed very near to punching his friend.

    He could not wait for the event to be over so he could rte all of it to Chynna. She would be so pleased that the n was working. Edward was hardly able to conceal his jealousy.

    While they spoke, Amy stood rooted to the spot. She was not used to attention like this, with so many people of high society showing off their precious stones and expensive jewelry.

    She looked beautiful nheless. She had chosen a simple metallic crepe V-neck dress. Her shoes were simple ck stilettoes. Her nails were done up in white polish and her hair was curled and pinned up in a high ponytail, with two loose curls let down at the corners of her ears.

    Her jewelry was minimal. A rose petal design of earrings perched on her earlobes and a simr ring worn on the middle finger of her right hand. She clutched an evening bag which held her necessaries.

    She was beautifully made up, with smokey eyeshadow and full red lips finished with sexy lip gloss. Her brows were shapely and perfectly arched and her eyeliner was winged and sharp enough to pierce. She was simply stunning.

    And that was exactly what this fine man who looked to be in histe thirties or early forties said to her as he inched close to her. The event was yet to begin in earnest and folk were just mingling and getting acquainted. She felt lost in the sea of people. Until this man found her.

    "Can I get you a drink?" he asked once she pulled herself out of her thoughts and focused her attention on him.

    From the corner of her eye, she could still see Jun Mo and Edward talking animatedly. Whatever it was about, it looked pretty serious.

    She turned to the man and smiled. He took that as a yes and beckoned to a server. He picked up a champagne flute and handed it to her. She downed it in one go. His brows arched but he said nothing.

    "Tell me a beautiful woman like you is not here all by herself," he asked instead.

    "Oh, no, I''m with him," she said, pointing to Jun Mo.

    The man nodded. "All the same, no smart man would leave a jewel like you hanging out all by herself. It is against thew of nature. All vacuums must be upied," he winked.

    Ordinarily, Amy would have found thement upsetting and disrespectful but the drink was already going to her head so sheughed.

    Perhaps herughter had been too loud or maybe the men had concluded their impromptu meeting but Jun Mo soon reappeared and nodding politely to the other man, he took her arm.

    "Come, the party is starting," he said briskly.

    She followed his lead. Her heels cked against the floor and that made her giggle. she passed by another waiter and grabbed a drink. She drank this one just as quickly as the first.

    Jun Mo showed her to their seat at the front of the setting. She plopped in and beamed up at him.

    "This is fun," she said loudly.

    He leaned down and sniffed. "Two minutes away and you''re already drunk?" surprise and exasperation fought for dominance in his voice.

    She tried to protest but ended up giggling instead.

    He rolled his eyes and willed her to get a grip on herself.

    "I''ll be called up there to give an opening speech in a bit. I want you to stay away from any more alcohol. And people. Especially men," he warned.

    He did not sign up to babysit and he was starting to wonder how he would handle her as she was especially with all the responsibilities he had to fulfill before the evening would be over. Perhaps he and Chynna had not had a foolproof n after all.

    Soon, like he had told her, thepere called him up. He stood up to apuse and made his way to the stage.

    Amy looked around, smiling bigly. Her eyes locked with a man seated across the other table from where she was. He nodded and then as ifpelled by some magical force, he picked up his ss and approached her.

    He reached over and introduced himself. "Perhaps we could talk better some other time?" he asked, slipping out a gold embossedplimentary card and handing it to her.

    Amy had not noticed, but on the other side of the table, Edward sat watching all of it. He had seen the man from earlier offer her a drink and that was why he had hurried Jun Mo off to take charge of the situation.

    And now, he watched as this other fellow tried to sneak his way in. He could not watch anymore. The night had presented her as a surprise looking all dazzling like an ancient goddess and he would be a fool to let these other men lure her into some stupid games. He stood up and strode purposefully towards the two of them.

    When he reached them, he shoved the other man without courtesy and reaching down for Amy, he grabbed her with one hand and picked up her purse with the other.

 Chapter 401 Jealousy(2)

    <h4>Chapter 401 Jealousy(2)</h4>

    She squeaked with surprise.

    "What are you doing? Let me go!" she said through her teeth.

    "I will, but first, we are leaving," Edward replied cooly.

    "We? I didn''t evene here with you in the first ce," she snapped back, trying to snatch her hand and her purse from him but he was strong. Heads were starting to turn at the disturbance.

    "Shut up and don''t make a scene," he ordered sternly.

    As if suddenly back to her senses, she looked around and saw the weird stares. She looked down, blushing with embarrassment as she let Edward pull her away.

    The man with the card stood bewildered, card in hand as he watched the gorgeous Amy being dragged off.

    Once outside, Edward held the car door open for her. She got in. Frowning and an obvious pout perched on her lips.

    "I nned to have crazy fun today," she finally yelled. "I don''t know who you think you are dragging me away like that. I had a date! What are you going to exin to him when hees back and finds me gone? You''re just my boss at work, okay? You don''t tell me what to do every day of my life!"

    Edward let her rant. He cared little now that she was here with him. She would calm down eventually but watching all those men crawl all over her at the event made him feel like he was about to explode. He could not even begin to describe how awful he felt.

    He wanted to hold her. To mould her into himself and just stay that way forever. He could not exin what was happening to him or why but he felt it deeply. He wanted to possess her. To make his and no one else''s.

    It took everything in him not to have fought Jun Mo right there and then at the event for having the nerve to ask her to be his date.

    But he knew it would be foolish. If anyone had seen him lose his head and pinch his friend, and then asked why he did that, he would have nothing to say and so he had held it together. But not for any one else.

    "Where are you taking me?" she asked, calmer now.

    "Home," he replied. "You have no business being out in public getting drunk," he added angrily.

    The words stung her like a bee.

    She turned her face away so he would not see her tears. Once the car pulled into the driveway of her house, she pushed the door open and got out. She missed a step in her hurry and staggered badly in her four-inch high heels.

    Edward caught her just before she lost bncepletely.

    "Red," he whispered softly as he cradled her. Her hair smelled sweet. Like spice and herbs and garden flowers. He drank in the odors and found his hands snaking along her bare back. He pulled her head up from his chest and saw the tear streaked face.

    "Oh, Red," he said again. His chest constricted with pain. He hated to hurt her the way he always seemed to do. He would give anything to make her feel better in this moment.

    When she looked up at him with her innocent eyes, he noticed she had ditched her sses for contact lenses. The look pulled him in. He leaned down and kissed her softly on the cheek, sucking in her salty tears.

    Then his lips inched closer to hers. She did not pull back. So he kissed them, nibbled on the corners of her mouth before taking them whole. He sucked in a sharp breath at the sensation. His lips lingered on hers for a while and then emboldened, he tried to pry them apart with his tongue.

    She pulled away then. Turning and fleeing into her house like the devil was at her heels. He stood there and watched her go, his emotions a tangled mess of longing, euphoria and bewilderment.

    "Red," he muttered again. The word clung to him like she had been only a few moments ago. He would hang on to the memory for as long as he could, he thought, finally turning away and stepping into his car for the long and lonely ride home, the festivities utterly forgotten.

    *****************

    It took Edward the short drive from the beginning of Amy''s driveway to the end for Edward to realise that he wasn''t about to go home without resolving issues with the girl he hade to fall in love with, the very thing he had willed himself against doing.

    He took a hard hit on his brake; so hard the car screeches beforeing to a halt. He had the half mind to just leave the gear running while he went to got what he really wanted, but Edward wasn''t sure if he woulde back out to the car until muchter. In fact, he was hoping, if things went ording to how he nned, he wouldn''te back out until much, muchter.

    When the key was put of the ignition and in the safety of his pockets, Edward was out of the car in a sh and banging on Amy''s door.

    "Amy? Amy please open the door." For the first time since he could remember, Edward was begging someone. He never did that. He just wasn''t one to beg anybody for anything; Edward always got what he wanted.

    The banging went on for at least a minute before the wooden doors that stood as the entrance to Amy''s house burst open.

    "I have a sleeping brother in this house, a simple knock would have done," the petite Asian whisper-yelled.

    Dressed in only her silky negligee as an underwear, Amy stuck only her face flushed pink from both anger and embarrassment. She had been changing out of her dinner wear when the first knock ¨C if the loud banging that had nearly broken her door down could be called that. It hade as a startle and at first Amy had been scared.

    Her negligee had dropped from her hand and she had been ready to run to get Gu Zhou from his room so they could make a run for it through the backdoor. She had in fact taken thest step to the door when she''d heard her name. His voice.

 Chapter 402 Roller coaster

    <h4>Chapter 402 Roller coaster</h4>

    "What does he want now?" She had muttered to herself deliberately taking her sweet time to get dressed.

    Now that she knew it wasn''t an armed killer out her front door, she felt safe. Even safer knowing exactly who it was on her porch.

    On her way down the steps, Amy had peeked in to see that her baby brother was still sleeping.

    Edward''s fist had created such raucous that she wouldn''t be surprised if Gu, normally a deep sleeper, would be wide awake. To her surprise though, he wasn''t.

    So, she''d continued in careful, tentative steps to the door wondering why exactly Edward had returned to her house after their row.

    Now, as she stared at him from her hiding ce behind the door, Amy couldn''t help the butterflies swimming in the bottomless ocean of her abdomen.

    "What do you want?" Amy asked again after a few beats when Edward still hadn''t said anything.

    "You," was all he growled before pushing her backward into the house.

    Without a chance for reaction, Amy''s face was locked between two warm palms before her lips got carried into the mix. Soft, wet lips closed around her full pouty ones, gently at first before his tongue darted out to pull the bottom one in.

    For the first intimate seconds of the lip embrace Amy was Edward''s puppet, dancing along to the pull of his mouth strings.

    He had her so lost in the euphoric feeling of having his lips on ¡ªfor the second time that night¡ª that it was only when Edward''s straying hands roamed their way to her behind did Amy finally jolt out of whatever trance kissing had put her in.

    "No. No, you don''t get to yell at me and manhandle me and expect that everything will be alright. I won''t be yed like that."

    Amy''s chest was heaving and her reddened lips wobbly even as she addressed her feelings to Edward whose flushed expression wasn''t different from hers.

    There was a sigh of exasperation; Edward closed his eyes against the image of the most beautiful woman ¡ªas he had often referred to Amy I''m conversations with his guys¡ª to berate himself, even if silently.

    When he opened his eyes again, she was still staring at him, patiently waiting for him to exin why he had returned to her house.

    "I''m not trying to manhandle you, Amy. I''m trying to protect you."

    As Edward spoke, Amy could see the vulnerability in his eyes but she didn''t let herself be moved by it. She had to put her foot down and show Edward how upset she was about his behaviour.

    "Protect me from what?" she asked in a voice that would have been louder if it were any other time of the day. "I''m not your...your...um..." Amy struggled for the word to use, "...anything," she finally settled for. "It''s not your job to protect me. I can take care of myself."

    "No, you can''t!" The reply was forceful and decisive, leaving no room for argument. "Not like the way I can."

    There was a moment of silence as Amy swallowed the revtion. Her chest was having from the anger she felt as well as all the sexual tension that was beginning to build in the air.

    Her eyes were red and watery from exhaustion and his were not any better. Hus hair was in a tousle from the number of times he had run his hand through it and while Amy''s hadn''t been freed from its night-out look, Edward now reached out to run his palm over the top.

    She gulped. Having him this close was invading her senses with a lot of feelings that were beginning to overwhelm her. "Why do you want to take care of me? Why do you want to protect me?"

    No answer.

    "I''m asking you a question."

    Still no answer. His hands just remained on her head, rubbing. Amy looked up at him and searched his eyes for an answer, but like usual, he was hiding his emotions.

    "Why are you so possessive of me when you clearly want nothing from me?" Amy shrugged away from the hold. The moment of calmness was over and the anger was beginning to seep back into Amy''s voice.

    "That''s not right. I do want something from you."

    "Oh yeah, of course, you want me to be your secretary and do your bidding."

    The first came up put of nowhere and struck the wall behind Amy. "Stop talking like that. I want you to be more than my secretary. I love you for crying out loud. I love you but I''m scared that I''ll lose you. I have never had tomit to anyone the way I know I need to with you and it scares me. I don''t want to give any one my heart and have it shredded but God knows all of that doesn''t stop me from loving you."

    The words came out in an angered, unexpected rush; Amy''s pause was only natural. She blinked a long, slow blink as her mind absorbed the words. For a long time she refused to look at Edward.

    She just didn''t know how to take what he had just told her. All the attitude, his quick temper, the times he had made her feel like she wasn''t worth his time, all of those moments went by in her head like a photo montage and Amy just couldn''t reconcile any of it with Edward.

    Finally, with the same deliberateness with which she had gone to the club, Amy looked up at Edward.

    She searched his eyes which were firmly fixated on hers and without missing a beat reached up and pped him squarely across the cheek.

    "You took me on a rollercoaster of draining emotions all for nothing." Amy''s hand remained on the cheeks it had just inflicted pain upon.

    She turned as she spoke massaging the spot slowly. Edward''s hands remained at his side, but his eyes registered the shock. He hadn''t know the girl was that daring.

    "Don''t you ever do that again," she warned before pulling him down on her and enveloping his lips in a kiss that spoke volumes of how exactly she felt about him.

 Chapter 403 Roller coaster (2)

    <h4>Chapter 403 Roller coaster (2)</h4>

    Edward released the breath he''d been holding since his confession and as he rxed, he took over control of the kiss.

    His hands slid into her hair and gripped her face so that as he devoured her lips, she was anchored by his grip.

    It was the third time the two had kissed in the span of two hours yet Amy wanted to melt under the intensity of the kiss.

    She moaned as loudly as she could into Edward''s mouth and he swallowed it all up without a second thought.

    His fingers massaged her scalp with deliberate sensuality while his lips danced with hers like burning mes to oxygen.

    With his palms wrapped around her waist like a bracelet, Edward pulled Amy so that she stood flush against his front.

    Through the thin fabric of his suit shirt, Amy could feel all of Edward''s chest. The rippled hardness was a wee contrast against her full, soft chest and the petite Asian found herself pressing harder against herpanion.

    As the kiss intensified, she leaned forward so that she stood on her toes and matched his pace.

    After sucking on her lower lip, now swollen and bruised from his wanted torment, Edward took a long pull before releasing the lips to resume his attack on her neck.

    Just as he''d done with her lips, massaging and pampering till they were hot with need, Edward rotated rounds between the bade of Amy''s neck and the spot behind her ear.

    He kissed and licked, licked and kissed until Amy was breathless and begging for a break.

    "I want you," he told her in a voice that didn''t belong to him at all. It was all groggy and coarse from all the sexual feelings overwhelming his senses.

    For the first few seconds Amy had to catch her breath, she just stared at Edward and said nothing.

    Her mind had gone nk at his confession and what scared her even more was that she wanted the exact same thing.

    She didn''t know if she should want the exact same thing or anything at all so she just stared.

    "I want to take you right here and now," Edward went on as if the first statement hadn''t been clear enough.

    Amy gulped visibly this time and Edward could read the scepticism in her eyes. He stepped closer and lowered his face until his breath found her cheek.

    Amy closed her eyes against the sensation biting her lips as she fought against the feelings running riot in her body.

    "My bro...Gu... he''s sle..."

    "Shh." Edward trailed a long manicured finger down the side of her face before kissing a spot on it.

    "I''m not going to do what will inconvenience anyone but if you don''t want this, as much as it kills me to say this, I''ll go."

    Her eyes darted up to his in a sh, like she had been jolted by some electric current.

    "So you do want this," Edwardughed. "Don''t you?"

    Shyly, with her cheeks already flushed a crimson red, Amy nodded. She bit her lips again as she took a deep breath.

    "Oh Amy, the things you do in my body when you bite your lips like that."

    Innocently, as if she had not the slightest idea her intentions, Amy fluttered her lids up at Edward.

    Slowly and deliberately, while still maintaining eye contact, she drew in her bottom lip with her teeth.

    "Ugh!" The growl was guttural and threatening but Amy stood there unafraid as Edward inched for her waist.

    In one beat, he lifted her by her hips and when she had wrapped her legs around his torso, staged an attack on her neck.

    The toes on Amy''s stocky feet curled as Edward''s lips traced patterns on her neck. He pulled and suckled on the skin before moving down to the base of her neck.

    He buried his face in the hollow just before her cor bone and drew circles with his tongue.

    "Oh dear," Amy moaned and clutched Edward''s shoulders tighter. She squeezed his shirt until it was at the point of tearing as Edward kept up his ministrations.

    Her nails dug into the flesh on his back even as he went further down to her breasts.

    The height difference made it impossible for Edward to reach Amy''s boobs so he lifted her higher so that her legs crossed slightly below his mid back.

    He moved so that her backside was stered to the wall behind them then while one hand steadied her, the other slipped the strap of her negligee to gain ess to her exposed chest beneath.

    "You''re not wearing a bra. Were you expecting someone?" he asked gruffly.

    "I was about to sleep Edward. No girl wears a bra to sleep."

    He searched her face as if trying to detect a lie and when he found none, went back to pulling the second strap.

    "I don''t mind anyway. It makes doing this easier."

    "Doing wha..."

    But Amy could notplete the question for Edward''s lips had already taken ce around her nipples. A spot in her centre throbbed twice and Amy instantly grew wetter.

    Her mouth opened in a silent moan as Edward''s tongue focused it''s attention on her nipples.

    He pressed her tighter against the wall so that he was able to free his second hand to cover the other breasts while his mouth worked on one.

    Amy wrapped her hand around Edward''s head and pressed him tighter to chest. Her fingers threaded his hair tugging at the strands in reaction to his performance on her body.

    "You''re killing me Edward," she revealed in between pants and he paused to look at her again.

    "What do you think you''re doing to me huh?" He asked back and dropped a quick kiss on her neck. "Huh?" Another kiss, on her shoulder this time.

    "Oh please."

    "Let me take you upstairs?" It came out as less of demand this time unlike before and Amy''s core became an ocean.

 Chapter 404 Desire

    <h4>Chapter 404 Desire</h4>

    "Let me take you upstairs?" It came out as less of demand this time unlike before and Amy''s pussy became an ocean.

    "Mm-hmm," she nodded.

    "You want to do this?"

    She nodded again with pursed lips. If she opened her mouth, Amy feared the words that woulde out.

    She was so horny it had to unhealthy; she felt like her insides would burst from all of the pressure.

    Drawing Edward closer, Amy initiated what would be a fiery kiss, giving as much as her lover had given her before.

    Edward pulled away from her lips and inquired, "Where''s your room?"

    "Door''s open."

    In her rush to quieten Edward''s incessant banging on her front door, Amy had left her door open as she ran out to the foyer.

    It was the first door to the left of thending but she was too dazed to let out that information.

    Once they were at the top of the stairs, he would see the door standing ajar on its hinges. Hopefully, he kept his eyes away from her breasts long enough for them not to miss their steps.

    With a huff, Edward drew Amy away from the wall. He ensured her legs were secured around his waist before making a move for the steps.

    Amy held on to Edward''s neck as tightly as she could burying her face in his chest.

    She drew in nose full breaths of him absorbing as much of his scent as she could so that even when he left her, she would never lose the fragrance.

    The journey to the top of the stairs did not take as much time for Edward was fuelled by his need to be united with the woman he loved.

    With Amy still attached to his figure by the waist, he moved into the room and after kicking the door closed behind him, went straight for the bed.

    With his knees anchored to the base of the bed, Edward slowly lowered Amy to the cold, silky sheets joining in only when he was sure she wasfortable.

    He resumed kissing her from her neck down to her still exposed nipples which Edward was certain he would never get enough of. Amy''s moans flowed seamlessly from her lips, like they hadn''t taken a break at all.

    The tension was still as strong as it had been when Edward first kissed her. His lips made her feel so good she was finding it difficult to believe that he was human.

    Her fingers returned to his head and she began massaging his scalp again. She''d figured he likes it before because his fingers gripped her tighter and his lips suckled faster.

    If she had more than two sets of fingers, all of them would be threaded in his hair.

    "You have the sweetest breasts I have ever tasted."

    If the statement had been made under normal circumstances, Amy would have taken offence at it. "...ever tasted."

    It revealed, however subtly, that Edward had been with other women and the thought was enough to make the secretary jealous.

    But Edward was there in bed with her and not any of the other women he might have had a run with.

    He was confessing feelings to her and not them. In that moment, that was all she let herself think about and it made her moan even louder.

    When Edward was done with her breasts and ready to explore the rest of her body, he raised himself up a little and leaned forward to nt a peck on Amy''s cheek.

    Then he rolled so that hey close to her but beside and assessed her watery half-closed eyes and wondered if at all she could see him clearly.

    Her lips were swollen from the force of his own and Edward smiled as he observed them. He ran a thumb over the bottom which was fuller than the upper lip and dropped a little at the edge.

    "You taste good. Everywhere I have tasted is good. But there''s just one ce I want to taste so badly."

    The implication of his words were evident and Amy felt her centre, the very subject of Edward''s statement, throb with anticipation. But just to make things as exciting as she felt, Amy pretended like she had no idea what her lover was going on about. She asked,

    "What ce is that?"

    Her voice was barely audible, slightly above a whisper but Edward still hovered above her and felt the breath released with each word. He chuckled at Amy''s feigned ignorance.

    "Why don''t I show you?"

    Edward''s eyes missed Amy''s gulp for they had followed his fingers up from her knees and into her dress and when they came to rest right on her panties, they returned to her face.

    Amy''s pulse had quickened by a double and her pupils dted so much she almost looked like a puppy.

    Her mouth was hung open in a moan that came out as pants and her fingers dug hairlines into the sheets.

    She was already stoned from the sex that had not yet happened.

    After a while of silent staring without any action from both parties, her tongue darted out to wet her lips.

    His fingers stilly unmoving on her private and Amy jerked up to jumpstart the organs.

    "Oh, so you want this huh?" Even as he asked, Edward''s fingers started moving beneath thecy barrier separating his fingers from something that promised to be wet and hot.

    "Mm-hmm," Amy croaked out.

    "It''s yours," Edward growled and inserted a finger slowly into Amy''s hole.

    "Ah!" She gasped softly as a new feeling was introduced along with Edward''s finger.

    He started with the index, gliding in and out of her hole with intended slowness.

    He let her get used to the intrusion, basically petting her with the pads of his finger.

    Then he increased pace and Amy learned she could get wetter than she already was.

    He inserted another finger to join the first and Amy''s legs drew up closer locking his fingers in an ufortable way.

    Edward hit her knees with his so that her legs opened up again.

    "Does it hurt?" he asked concernedly.

    "No." Amy shook her head and looked down at him. "It''s okay."

    "Are you sure?"

    Instead of answering, Amy jerked up again as a sign to show that she wanted him to continue and he obeyed.

    She didn''t stop the jerking as she danced along with his finger meeting him thrust for thrust.

    Edward soon lost control of himself and increased his pace, but Amy was not deterred, she rode as fast as he did and her pants followed the tempo.

    "Yes, yes, yes," she kept repeating.

    Edward''s mouth equally hung open as he released his own growls and hisses. Her pussy was so soft and wet it was hard to imagine his fingers anywhere else.

    He didn''t want the feeling to stop and nearly cursed the universe when he felt Amy contract; she was about to cum.

    Because he didn''t want it to end, Edward retracted his fingers in thest minute and he heard Amy curse.

    "Rx my dear. We have only just begun."

    I

 Chapter 405 The proposal

    <h4>Chapter 405 The proposal</h4>

    Almost an hourter, the coupley breathless on the bed with Amy cuddled warmly inside Edward''s naked arms.

    He held her so closely you would think someone else was trying to take her away. Her back was to his front and while both arms circled her shoulders, he had one leg locking hers to the bed.

    His nose was buried in her hair and Edward was beyondfortable breathing in the scent of her floral shampoo.

    They were both quiet as they reflected on what had just happened.

    Sex wasn''t something Amy had as regrly as she suspected Edward did. He was the practical example of ''What Women Want''; if there were a poster to be made about that particr subject, Edward would probably make cover image.

    She wasn''t a virgin, oh no but she could neverpare any of the men she had been with to Edward. He was a god in bed. He knew all the right ces to kiss and squeeze.

    He knew when to go very fast and when she needed him to slow down. Amy had felt giddy all over and the feeling hadsted even long after they were done. She didn''t want it to end.

    At first, when he had tried prating her, it had been painful, extremely. She''d hissed so sharply, he''d retracted himself to look at her.

    "You''re so tight. Are you a..."

    She shook her head, she wasn''t. She just hadn''t been with a man in a while and when she exined this to him, Amy saw the glint in his eyes.

    He was happy to be her first in a while. He expressed this with a very warm and long kiss.

    "I need you right now," he''d told her after releasing her lips then slowly, with practiced gentleness, he''d re-entered her.

    The pain was sharp andsted for a few minutes. Edward had rested in her until she got used to his size then he''d withdrawn himself and entered again.

    He did it till she was really wet and entering her became easier. And then he started moving. Naturally, Amy''s legs had gone round his waist pressing him closer to her.

    Her arms remained in his hair and both moaned and growled as they exercised rights over each other''s body.

    They were a while and by the time both were done, Edward''s back was a cluster of scratches from Amy''s nails and her hair was at risk of breaking from the way it was tangled.

    "That was awesome," he had remarked as he rolled beside her.

    Then, she had been too dazed to speak, but now as they cuddled, she whispered back,

    "It was beyond awesome."

    From behind her, Edward smiled. He let out a deep breath and adjusted so that he could pull her even closer.

    "Wanna go again?"

    Amyughed, "Right now?"

    "I mean the only thing stopping us is us."

    With a smile on her face, Amy turned around so that her bare front was to Edward''s. She looked up at him even as he wrapped his arms tighter around us.

    "Time is also stopping us. I have to rest so that I am productive at the office today and work starts in¨C" she nced at the clock on the wall opposite her bed. "¨Cabout eight hours."

    "Eight?" Edward huffed, "That''s plenty time to go one more round and sleep and still go to work. Besides," he leaned down and pecked her forehead, "I''m the boss and I can decide to let you have a free day."

    Amyughed and shook her head. "No Edward. You''re not giving me a free day."

    "Why not?"

    "Because," Amy started, "Your meeting with the Chan family is this afternoon."

    "Oh." Edward groaned as he remembered the meeting he''d set up with potential business partners a week ago.

    He closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose in annoyance. When he opened them again, Amy was smiling up at him.

    "What? Why are you smiling like that?"

    Her cheeks flushed red and Amy shook her head as she looked away shyly.

    Edward moved his fingers down so that they were beneath her armpits. "Why are you smiling like that?" He poked her with his index fingers.

    Amy giggled. "No reason."

    Edward poked her again and when she didn''t shake, he started tickling her. "You better tell me why you''re giving me that suspicious grin or my fingers won''t stop."

    Herughter was loud and uncontroble, her entire body shook with it.

    Amy tried to grab Edward''s hands to make him stop but he rolled over and carried her with him so that her legs now straddled his waist.

    When Amy was restedfortably, with her ass cheeks right before hisid penis, Edward stopped tickling her and sighed.

    As they stared into the depths of their eyes, Amy''s smile¡ªwhich had remained even after he''d stopped tickling her¡ªslowly dissipated. He was trying to tell her something with his piercing gaze and her heart was reading it clearly.

    "I''ve never been the rtionship guy," he started what promised to be a heartfelt epistle but Amy could see how much he was struggling to let out the words so she stopped him.

    "It''s okay, you don''t have to." She couldn''t hide the sadness from her voice. They literally just had mind-blowing sex and he was about to leave her hanging.

    Amy didn''t want to hear the words spoken out loud. She made to move off him but he grabbed her legs and held her back down.

    "Hey! What''s wrong?" He raised himself up so that he was leaning against the cushioned headboard.

    Amy shook her head and with a huff, crossed her arms before her chest, as if trying to protect her body from his view.

    Edward reached out to grabbed her hands and uncross them but Amy shifted away from his reach.

    "What is the matter now?" Edward waspletely confused. It was clear to him that the woman on top of him was upset and he couldn''t imagine what he''d said or done to cause it.

    Again, without saying anything or looking at him, she shook her head.

    "Is it what I said about the rtionship thing? Ugh!" Edward sighed. "I am not a rtionship guy, but I am willing to try for you. That''s what I am trying to say Amy."

    The red creeped onto her cheeks slowly and Amy had to remove her hands from her chest so that Edward didn''t see her blush. But it was already toote. He startedughing and Amy had no choice but to join in.

    "Be my girlfriend."

 Chapter 406 Men

    <h4>Chapter 406 Men</h4>

    The proposal was sudden and quite frankly not even much of one because Edward wasn''t asking.

    He never asked. He saw what he wanted and he took it without a second guess. For obvious reasons, the idea of Edward demanding her as a partner made her insides turn to mush.

    There were so many butterflies in her stomach Amy thought they''de out her mouth.

    She finally allowed herself to look at him and when she read what his eyes said, her answer was inevitable.

    "Yes."

    Because he hadn''t been expecting a positive reply, Edward was poised to go into the epistle he''d prepared in his head to convince his personal secretary that they could have a rtionship outside the office.

    He was going to tell her how good he''d be for both her and her brother; how he would protect them.

    He really wanted to make this work and now that she had said yes, Edward was convinced she wanted that as well.

    "So, you''d be my girlfriend?"

    "Generally when someone says yes to a proposal, that''s what it means. Except sarcasm is at y."

    "Is sarcasm at y?" It had better not be.

    "If it were, what would you do?" Amy was baiting Edward and he waspletely clueless.

    "I''d give you the long speech I''d prepared just to win you over."

    "You don''t need a speech to win me over Edward," even as she spoke, Amy lowered her face so that her lips hovered over Edward''s, "I was yours before you knocked down my door." And then she sealed the confession with a kiss.

    ***********

    If not for the knock that came on the door, the two would have kept up with their lip act till the next day. Gu Zhou was awake.

    "Sister, are you awake? I''m going to bete for school."

    His voice sounded groggy which told Amy that he had just woke up. She sprung away from Edward as though he''d pricked her lip with a needle.

    "I''ming." She yelled back while giving Edward a look of panic which he didn''t reflect in any way.

    "Okay"

    Amy waited till she heard the door to the bathroom which stood between their rooms open and close before she made any movements.

    "Gu Zhou''s awake," she announced to Edward as she scrambled off the bed to search for her clothes he''d discardedst night.

    "I figured," Edward replied dryly. Resting above his hair on the headboard was his arms crossed in a way that entuated his muscles. His mouth was set in a grim line and he looked a little bit annoyed.

    Amy paused her frantic search for something that was proving to be missing and looked at the man syed in all his naked glory on her bed.

    "Gu Zhou''s my brother." She would have yelled that big detail if not that the walls separating her room from the bathroom were paper thin and would certainly give her brother an inkling to a second party in her room.

    Edward didn''t seem to understand anything she was saying, or he just didn''t care and that irked her.

    "I don''t think you understand Edward. You have to leave, now before hees out of the bathroom."

    His hands dropped onto hisp and he sat up straighter, leaning away from the headboard. "I don''t have to do anything Amy.

    You''re chasing me out for no reason. I want to meet your brother."

    Her head was half way between the bed and floor but when Edward spoke, it met with the harder surface. "Ow!"

    Edward quickly rolled to the edge and grabbed her up. "Sorry. Where did you hit?"

    "My head!" Amy shrieked rubbing the spot on her left temple. "And apparently you hit yours too."

    Edward rolled his eyes upward as if trying to remember a time when he''d hit his head against something.

    "No," he said after no memory came back, "My head''s fine."

    Amy rolled her eyes and returned her face back under the bed to continue her search.

    "You can''t meet my brother Edward, especially not like this."

    "Like how? We have met before remember? I just want proper introductions this time, especially now that I am something more to you." Was that really too much to ask for? He wondered.

    "You will be properly introduced Edward, I promise. Just not today, please."

    She finally found the negligee somewhere close to the foot of her bed hidden amongst the loose folds of the sheets that had rolled off the bed during their time on the bed.

    As Amy struggled to put it on, she searched for Edward''s clothes so he could put them on and leave the room with her.

    Hopefully they''d make it to the front door before Gu Zhou came downstairs. She did not want to know how it would y out if her brother saw her boss in their home this early, especially given that Amy wasn''t sick or anything.

    Gu was smart, he would immediately figure he had spent the night and everyone knew what happened whenever a man spent the night together with the ''opposite gender''.

    "I don''t understand, why you making a big deal out of this?"

    Amy paused with one hand holding the tie of her robe while the other tried to fix the mess that had be her hair.

    She released a sigh, "I''m not making a big deal out of anything. It''s just..." there was another sigh, "I am not prepared for you to meet with any of my family members."

    "But this isn''t just any of your family member. This is your brother who is literally just next door and probably already knows I''m here."

    Amy paused again after tying the robe to really think on what Edward had just said.

    "How do you know that?"

    He rxed back again, his face taking on a brighter look now that the conversation was going to go in his favour, or so he thought. "We are men. We know these things."

 Chapter 407 Questions

    <h4>Chapter 407 Questions</h4>

    "We? You certainly can''t be talking about my brother. Gu Zhou is barely a teenager."

    "Age isn''tmensurate with knowledge, Red. Just chill out."

    Amy gave him no reply. She just groaned and turned around to leave the room.

    "I''m going to make breakfast now, I''ll tell you when it''s safe toe out."

    She was already walking out of the room so Amy didn''t hear Edward mumble, "Tell me when it''s safe toe out...yeah right."

    He was already pulling on his suit pants which had miraculouslynded somewhere on the bed amongst during the throes of sexual pleasure.

    ***

    There were three pans on the oven and each held something different.

    There was bacon simmering on low heat in one; scrambled eggs that had just been fried in another and thest held a heating can of baked beans.

    This wasn''t a normal breakfast table in the house, but for some reason (Edward), Amy was going all out that morning. They were actually having baked beans.

    Usually, she reserved that for weekends or whenever Chynna slept over at the house.

    From where he sat at the dining table in the middle of the kitchen, Gu Zhou was wide-eyed with wonder as he watched his sister whistle while she moved about to get his te ready.

    The kitchen was covered in the scent of processed food and anybody who stood close enough to see through the open kitchen window would get a whiff of it.

    This was what always happened whenever Amy decided to grace the kitchen with her presence.

    She was a maverick at hanging food ingredients, steady producing magic out of rawness.

    This time, it was the sandwich she had made that had Gu Zhou''s mouth watering.

    He hadn''t noticed the pile of buttered toasts somewhere on the counter when he had walked in from the bathroom.

    Now, he watched with a watering mouth as his sister ced three of them on his te. He frowned.

    "Just three?"

    Amy paused to look up at Gu Zhou. "What?"

    "You have a mighty stack of the bread and you give me just three?" Unbelievable. Gu Zhou couldn''t justprehend the action.

    Amy never ate so much so he had been expecting more than half of the bread to be on his te, but she hadn''t even put up to a quarter.

    Amy squinted her eyes at him for a minute before relenting and adding one more to the pile.

    Gu Zhou followed the bread and grunted as itnded with a thud on the rest. He exchanged looks between his te, Amy''s face and the bigger pile.

    "Be grateful Gu. Besides, I''m already giving you baked beans, scrambled eggs and bacon along with that," Amy reminded him walking back to the kitchen counter to return the te where it had been before.

    "I know. I am grateful. Surprised too, but grateful," he said gently, then his voice took on a higher octave as he added, "It''s just that I can see clearly that there''s more and you''re not going to finish it all by yourself.

    And I know how much you don''t like food being wasted."

    Because Amy wasn''t ready to exin to her brother that there was a man currently waiting ¡ªhopefully patiently¡ª in her room who would finish even her portion of the bread along with his. "It won''t be wasted," she told him simply.

    Gu Zhou said nothing else to her hearing, just mumbled something incoherent while he helped himself to the bowl of baked beans at the centre of the table.

    "Eat fast. I don''t want you to bete for school."

    Zhou''s mouth was already stuffed full with food so he just mumbled "Mm-hmm" and continued with his food.

    He was already half- dressed. The bottom half of his body was covered in his school pants while he wore a white vest on top.

    All he needed to do was finish the food; he was a very quick dresser. Whenever Amymented on it, he usually imed it was because he wasn''t a girl.

    "Girls are always slow to get dressed," he would say and walk away before Amy could reach out and quack him on the head.

    "You have all your assignments done?" Amy was now setting her te and Edward''s at the sink. She stood with her back to Gu Zhou, blocking him from seeing what she was doing.

    He took a swallow before responding, "Yes, but there is one question in math I am having difficulty with."

    "Tell me then, I''m good at math."

    There was a loud din as the metal spat in Amy''s hand dropped onto the wooden counter in a clutter. She couldn''t turn to face the voice of whoever had spoken, for the muscles in her fingers and neck had frozen.

    "You again!" Gu was the first toe out of his reverie. He had been just as shocked as his sister to hear the voice, but had quickly recovered when he recognised the face of who had spoken. "You have a weird way of entering ces."

    "I do, don''t I?"

    "How did youe in?" Gu asked. He was suddenly no longer interested in his food. All his attention was now focused on the man he knew as his sister''s boss. "Did Amy leave the door open when she came homest night?"

    "No, no. I didn''te through the front door actually."

    Edward was now trying to settle down into the chair beside Gu Zhou on the dining table. At his words, Amy squirmed.

    She still couldn''t turn around but had picked up the spat again to continue setting hers and Edward''s tes.

    "So which door did youe in through?"

    She turned around sharply and her gaze locked with his. She shook her head frantically but Edward pretended like he couldn''t see her.

    From the bowl at the centre of the table, he grabbed an apple and took arge bite off the top. The entire room was quiet as they waited for him to answer the question.

 Chapter 408 Mine

    <h4>Chapter 408 Mine</h4>

    Amy, in particr, was very much interested in what his answer was going to be. And because he knew whatever he said would determine the mood in the room for the next hour or so that he was around, Edward took his time answering.

    "Never mind that," he finally said. By now, the apple was half-done and browning on the exposed edges. "You were telling me about your math problem."

    Amy sighed audibly. She turned around once again to empty the contents of the egg pan into her own te.

    "I don''t have a math problem." Gu went back to his food, visibly disinterested in the conversation now that they had shifted the focus to his homework. "I aced my examsst term."

    "Good for you guru," Edward teased. "But seriously, let me see the question."

    Edward didn''t know exactly what waspelling him, but he found himself unnaturally interested in helping his girlfriend''s brother with his math work. He had always been good in math.

    As far back as he could remember, he''d always known how to solve math. His mother, when she was alive, had encouraged him to go forpetitions, even paid for some.

    But the path he hadter chosen in life didn''t need him to exercise that part of his brain. He''d gotten used to not having to crack his head over any equation.

    So, it came as a surprise to him when he asked the boy again to be shown the problem.

    "It''s okay, I can..."

    Gu had been about to say he could always take it to school and submit but Amy cut into the conversation.

    "Xiongdi, go bring the math problem and show the kind man. Be quick."

    There was a litany of mumbles as Gu Zhou exited the dining room, giving his food the chance to get cold which exined his resistance to going away in the first ce.

    But what Amy really wanted was to be alone with Edward for a few minutes so she could scold him about disobeying her instructions.

    "I didn''t disobey your instructions, Red," Edward pointed out as he epted the te of food she dropped before him.

    "Yes you did. I said stay up. I also said that I will call you when it''s safe toe downstairs."

    "Your brother isn''t in any danger, Amy. My meeting him will harm no one, thanks for your concern."

    Because Amy didn''t appreciate the sarcasm, she turned around with a huff. She walked to the sink and dropped all the dirty dishes to be washed after she was done eating.

    "Mm," Edward moaned as he took the second bite of the toasts. "This is good."

    Amy rolled her eyes. She said nothing as she joined him on the table with her own te.

    "I don''t want Gu getting the wrong idea about us," she told Edward in a voice that was supposed to make him reason her way.

    But Edward was too stubborn to follow her train of thought.

    "There''s only one idea anyone can get about us, Red and that''s the right one." In his left hand, he held a half-eaten sandwich while the other waved about demonstratively. "Don''t worry about it, I''ll break the news to him."

    "No, no...Ed..."

    "Shh!" Edward cut her short. He dropped the toast in his hand and leaned forward so he could grab her hand on the table and whisper, "You''re the first girl I have ever been serious about. There''s no way I am not announcing to the world who you are."

    The intensity and genuine emotions with which the words were spoken caused Amy to pause.

    She stared into Edward''s eyes and stayed there until the sound of Gu Zhou''s shuffling feet broke them out of the hold.

    He was impossible but she loved him all the same.. Gu Zhou set the math problem on the table and Edward returned his attention back to him.

    Amy finished up her breakfast in silence, not wanting to disturb the moment that was passing between two of the most important men in her life..

    "I used to love math as a kid, you know, " Edward started saying to Gu Zhou when they were rounding up.

    Amy''s ears piqued up at this; she had a lot of stories to hear about Edward''s childhood and his past generally.

    Edwardunched into the story of how he loved math and the support he received from his mother.

    "Hate to cut this short but someone has to get going if he doesn''t want to bete for school," Amy announced.

    Gu Zhou sighed and stood up begrudgingly. Her sister''s boss was not bad at all and he loves to hear cool stories, one his sister was currently depriving him from hearing. He packed up his books into his bag.

    "Thanks for the help..." Gu Zhou said and trailed off.

    "Edward, " he offered and stuck his hand out for a shake.

    Gu Zhou took the outstretched hand tentatively but returned the shake as firmly as possible.

    "Forgetting something young man?" Amy asked him as he was about to walk out of the house.

    He came back to her and gave her a hug and she kissed his forehead back. Gu Zhou was slowly growing out of this stage but she wanted to enjoy it for as long as she could.

    Silence greeted them behind the m of the front door. Amy watched from the window as the school bus rolled away.

    Amy felt Edward''s hands snake around her waist and he ced a kiss on the back of her neck before whispering into her right ear.

    "You''re mine."

    Amy''s only response was to shiver. She could not tell if it was out of delight or the underlying danger she heard in his voice.

    "Get dressed. I''m taking you out," he instructed and released her.

    She turned with furrowed brows. "Where are you taking me to, Edward? We only just started dating, literally.''

    "I meant what I said , Amy. I want to announce and let everybody know that you are mine." He held her gaze as said this. Amy gulped.

 Chapter 409 Date

    <h4>Chapter 409 Date</h4>

    "I''ll wait down here. We definitely won''t be going anywhere if I follow you up those stairs." His eyes roved over her sexy-as-sin body. "Now go."

    Amy couldn''t say much in the way of protests when she had felt the heat of his gaze all over her, from head to toe.

    She perused through her articles of clothing and finally settled on a sunflower maxi dress and a sandals; it was one of the simplest dresses she owned.

    She didn''t want to go all out for her first day on a date with her new boyfriend. Amy could not believe herself that she was really dating Edward Wu.

    She had really said yes to being his girlfriend. She fluffed her hair and applied lip balm with a little mascara. She sshed on some perfume.

    Edward smiled up at her as she came downstairs and he got to his feet.

    "You look good. Edible, " he added lowly.

    Amy flushed. He led her to his car and once they were safely tucked in, they were off. Edward took too many turns for Amy to keep track of where they were headed.

    "I suppose you''re one of those guys who won''t reveal the destination until you get there," Amy sighed.

    Edward quickly threw a smirk before looking back unto the road..

    "We''re going to ake."

    Her brows shot up. "Whatke?"

    All Amy registered was the dangerous glint in his eyes that reminded her of the ruthless Mafia boss he was. Which was easy to forget when they were together.

    He grinned. "You just have to wait and find out.

    And find out she did. She stood in awe of its beauty. Theke wasn''trge; the size of arge swimming pool.

    "It''s..."

    "Beautiful, I know, " he finished for her.

    "I was going to say grand but yes beautiful. "

    "Well, I''m d you like it. It''s open to your use any time." Amy cocked her head in confusion

    "It''s on a privatend so it''s not open to the general public, " Edward exined.

    "Oh." Amy did not like to think about just how wealthy he was.

    There was a nket spread out at shore and a basket on it.

    "Hmm, hopeful much," she teased.

    "Anything can be arranged with you at whatever time no matter what, because you''re the boss.". There was a hint of pride in the way he said the statement

    Amy nodded.

    "Now let''s enjoy."

    They settled nicely together on the nket. Amy leaned back on her hands and observed the scenery while Edward observed her. He thought she was a beautiful specimen and was hardly detestable.

    "Who did you call to set up all these?" Amy asked conversationally.

    "Someone. She always brings my ideas to life."

    "Exin to me how thisnd is privately own."

    " The story is not very straightforward, " he pointed out. "i don''t know where to start from."

    "How about the begin?" she suggested.

    Edward gave a deep sigh.

    "My grandfather gambled a lot. There was this one bet he made and he hit jackpot with it," he exined.

    "Really?!'' Amy was astonished at such luck.

    Edward nodded. "Yeah. Crazy luck. And it''s been in the family ever since."

    "That''s really nice," shemented.

    "It is."

    Silence passed between them.

    "Why did you push me away?" Amy asked out of the blue.

    The question took Edward by surprise and it caused him to take a pause. He pondered upon a few moments.

    "Because you were there and you beginning to wreak havoc on my senses. I was afraid to let you in so I pushed you away.

    You made me feel things I had no experience in, foreign feelings." He looked into her eyes. "You made me want it so bad ¨C you make me want it, want you."

    Amy forgot how to breathe for a moment. Edward had a way with words when he was in his feelings and recently he was in his feelings a lot.

    She liked it though and she knew without a doubt that her heart was his to have and to hold for all of eternity.

    She wondered if he felt the same magnitude of love she hade to have for him.

    They enjoyed their pic,ughing and talking about random stuff.

    At some point they pulled off their footwear and stood on the shores of theke where they shared a passion-filled kiss and Amy was on the verge of dropping the L-bomb. This was a ce she was definitely going toe back to and get familiar with.

    ***

    Each passing day brought Amy and Edward closer and closer. Edward knew that there was no other woman for him but the beauty he hade to love ans cherish.

    On a Thursday morning, he sat at his desk and found himself thinking about Amy and how he would love to surprise her.

    Before he could think twice about it, he picked up the telephone and ordered flowers and choctes to be delivered to Amy.

    This made him realize that it was his secretary that would have been instructed to ce the order once and also that Amy was once his employee. He would love to have her back; she was quite the efficient staff.

    He gave the address of delivery. He smiled when he thought about her reaction when she received the gifts.

    Amy was surprised to see the bouquet of flowers that greeted her when she opened the door. She signed off on the delivery and took it in.

    She saw that the flowers came with her favourite chocte and she could not control the smile that made it''s way unto her face.

    An idea began forming in her mind; since it seemed to he the day of gifts, Amy decide that she would return the favour.

    She was d that she was less busy. She stowed away the chocte in the refrigerator and put the flowers in vase containing water.

    I I I I I I

 Chapter 410 ILU

    <h4>Chapter 410 ILU</h4>

    A knock sounded on his door. Edward did not need the disruption from what he was doing. He murmured a gruff permission for whoever it was to enter.

    "What is it?" he asked. He rubbed his eyes before looking up and froze at the sight that met his eyes.

    Amy stood before him in a trench coat. He guessed what could possibly be underneath the coat and the possibility left him hot and anticipating.

    "Amy." He swallowed and cleared his throat from the hazy tone. "What are you doing here?"

    She smiled a foxy smile and strutted further into the office.

    "Hello darling . i got your present so I decided toe give you mine. Personally."

    "And where is the present?" His voice was low and raspy.

    Amy smiled seductively again. "Guess."

    Edward cocked a brow. Amy came round his desk and stood a few inches away from Edward.

    He had turned his chair and the evidence of his excitement was straining between his legs.

    Amy loosened the belt of the coat a little then she moved her right leg up and used her foot to graze the tent in his pants.

    Edward watched her with a hooded gaze, his breathing rushed and shallow.

    Amy licked her lips when his eyes focused on the pouty temptation. As she was about to withdraw her leg, he caught it and caressed all the way up to her knees.

    "Red..."

    "Baby. This is me showing gratitude for the gifts you sent, especially the chocte. Yum!'' She gave him a catlike grin.

    "And how do you n on showing the gratitude?" He went along with her.

    "Wouldn''t you like to know?" she asked rhetorically.

    "Yes," he answered huskily.

    She bent down and replied him with a kiss. He returned the kiss immediately and very soon the kiss became very heated.

    Edward pulled Amy down to him with their lips still locked. She straddled him and her heat settled snugly over his erection.

    Their heads moved back and forth in the undting battle, not for dominance but for passion.

    Amy soon disced his tie and loosened the first few buttons of his shirt. She slid her hands into his shirt and unto his back.

    He sucked on her tongue and she scraped her nails against his back in response.

    He made quick work ofpletely loosening her belt and taking the coat off her shoulders.

    He paused. She grinned.

    "What? Were you expecting something else?" She bit his earlobe.

    She was wearing a big loose shirt. He had expected her in a lingerie or negligee or possibly even naked! But he definitely did not expect the loose, big shirt that she had under.

    "You know I was." She grinned.

    She captured his lips and they resumed their battle. She loosened all the buttons on his shirt and helped him take the shirt off.

    She ran her hands over his chest. Thest time she had not been able to filly appreciate what a fine specimen of a man he was, they had been to passion-driven to focus on any thong other than satisfying their carnal desires.

    Edward stretched his hands across herps and caressed them even as he sucked her tongue. Amy''s moaned at the act, a reward for his thoroughness in pleasuring her.

    He moved his hands upwards and soon he encountered her bare backside where he spent time loving the supple cheeks with his hands..

    He explores further up to answer the question burning in his mind. When he got his answer, he grinned.

    "That''s why you wore the coat.. You sly vixen."

    She had gonemando beneath the big shirt, absolutely bare.

    "I''m notplete bad girl. Not yet anyway. " She nipped at his bottom lips.

    "Good. Don''t change. I love you just the way you are." he said in earnest.

    She froze a little. Did he realise what he had just said? Was he finally confessing his true feelings towards her? Had they finally reached the stage of confessing the depths of their love for each other.

    She didn''t have have time to think about because he took hold of her ass and stood up from his chair. He ced on the table and discarded of her shirt leaving her bare to his eyes.

    He tweaked her nipples with his thumb and yed with them a little. Her chest rose and fell with the heaviness of her breaths, causing her mounds to move as well.

    Soon enough, he reced his fingers with his mouth and he sucked on her nipples like a baby who was just beginning to straightening and was ravenous from the womb.

    Amy twisted her fingers into his hair and threw her head back even as the pleasure assaulted her.

    This was not what she had nned. She had intended to relinquish control gradual not the first moment he touched her.

    She had be putty in his hands. Edward let his fingers stray south and soon they found the target.

    "Look how wet you are."

    He sucked on her neck as he plunged two fingers into her warmth and softness. He curled finger and increased his pace.

    "Oh, Edward. Yes!"

    He groaned.

    "Yes! Yes!"

    A few secondster and Red was riding the waves of the epic orgasm she had just received.

    Her limbs had turned to jelly. Amy moved her shaky hands to his belt buckle and undid it. He pulled on the zipper and she guided his pants down his legs. Edward could tell that she had be impatient.

    Without wasting tome, he sunk himself into her heat and remained immobile for some time, relishing the feel of her around him, her heat enveloping his hard length.

    Slowly he began to thrust and each drive into increased in momentum and soon their speed caused the sound of flesh pping flesh to be prominent. The sounds mixed with her pleasured cries and Edward''s deep groans.

    He could feel his orgasm close so he picked up so that he and Amy would arrive together. With ast thrust, they both fell.over the edge and Amy released a long and high moan along with his name. When they had bothe back into focus, Edward lifted her and settled them on the couch in his office. Amy was droesy with exhaustion and so she slid into an easy sleep.

    Edward om thw other hand still felt energy thrumming through his veins but he would allow her rest a while and she woke up, he nned to take full advantage of the ''present '' she had for him.

    He watched the rise and fall of her chest and felt his heart swell with love for the beautiful creature thaty in his arms . He observed the little details on her face; hershes, the suppleness of her lips, her rosy cheeks.

    Edward felt content just watching her sleep in his arms and would do anything to keep it that way. He did not want to live without her , he had realised.

    "I love you," he whispered.

    Her eyelids twitched. He froze.

    Why did he just say that? Was she awake? Had she heard him? If she had, what would do? But she didn''t open her eyes so he rxed.

 Chapter 411 Alexa

    <h4>Chapter 411 Alexa</h4>

    She didn''t have have time to think about because he took hold of her ass and stood up from his chair. He ced on the table and discarded of her shirt leaving her bare to his eyes.

    He tweaked her nipples with his thumb and yed with them a little. Her chest rose and fell with the heaviness of her breaths, causing her mounds to move as well.

    Soon enough, he reced his fingers with his mouth and he sucked on her nipples like a baby who was just beginning to straightening and was ravenous from the womb.

    Amy twisted her fingers into his hair and threw her head back even as the pleasure assaulted her.

    This was not what she had nned. She had intended to relinquish control gradual not the first moment he touched her.

    She had be putty in his hands. Edward let his fingers stray south and soon they found the target.

    "Look how wet you are."

    He sucked on her neck as he plunged two fingers into her warmth and softness. He curled finger and increased his pace.

    "Oh, Edward. Yes!"

    He groaned.

    "Yes! Yes!"

    A few secondster and Red was riding the waves of the epic orgasm she had just received. Her limbs had turned to jelly.

    Amy moved her shaky hands to his belt buckle and undid it. He pulled on the zipper and she guided his pants down his legs. Edward could tell that she had be impatient.

    Without wasting tome, he sunk himself into her heat and remained immobile for some time, relishing the feel of her around him, her heat enveloping his hard length.

    Slowly he began to thrust and each drive into increased in momentum and soon their speed caused the sound of flesh pping flesh to be prominent. The sounds mixed with her pleasured cries and Edward''s deep groans.

    He could feel his orgasm close so he picked up so that he and Amy would arrive together. With ast thrust, they both fell.over the edge and Amy released a long and high moan along with his name.

    When they had bothe back into focus, Edward lifted her and settled them on the couch in his office. Amy was drowsy with exhaustion and so she slid into an easy sleep.

    Edward on the other hand still felt energy thrumming through his veins, but he would allow her rest a while and she woke up, he nned to take full advantage of the ''present '' she had for him.

    He watched the rise and fall of her chest and felt his heart swell with love for the beautiful human creature thaty in his arms .

    He observed the little details on her face; hershes, the suppleness of her, her pink lips, her rosy cheeks. Edward felt content just watching her sleep in his arms.

    She looked so peaceful and without worry he swore he would do anything to keep it that way.

    He did not want to live without her , he had realised. Even the thought of staying even the littlest distance away from her, hurt him emotionally.

    Edward could only wonder how he had grown so fond of someone he had sworn not to let himself fall for.

    "I love you," he whispered with so much sincerely he could hardly believe the words were his.

    Her eyelids twitched feverishly. He froze.

    Why did he just say that? Was she awake? Had she heard him? If she had, what would do? But she didn''t open her eyes so he rxed.

    ***************

    The only other reason Alexa likeding to America was because the weather worked perfectly for her skin.

    Beyond that, she had no idea why her father insisted on living in the country and even more why she too had to settle down there as well.

    The flight down from Asia had been exhausting and all Alexa wanted to do was shut her eyes for hours then get a full body massage after; but duty called and it would be downright disrespectful if she didn''t see her father first.

    She had long grown out of her eagerness to stay with him whenever she was came around, especially since he''d gotten himself a permanent slut.

    Insisting she was his partner was never going to change the way Alexa felt about the woman. She didn''t do well with sharing things and was even more selfish when it came to family, so pretending the woman didn''t exist was the next best thing.

    "Your apartment is ready, also you have an eight o''clock with the spa and then the meeting with Mr. Wu,"

    Her assistant, a tall, effective woman in her mid-twenties, listed off as they made the trip to her father''s estate.

    Ah, Edward Wu, the man Alexa was destined to spend the rest of her life with.

    It had taken some getting used to when her father had broken the news to her, more so because she and Edward had never really been friends and now they were about to go from barely talking into a marriage.

    That was a quantum leap, if you were ever looking for an example.

    It hadn''t taken Alexa much time at all to get rid of her initial aversion to the idea, but it had taken her quite sometime to get used to the idea of bing someone''s wife.

    Most especially since that someone was ¡ªhad been¡ª one of the lower ranking mafia bosses. When she had first met Edward Wu, as handsome and well-meaning as he''d been , he had also been struggling to get a good footing, hence the need for the alliance.

    Now after many years during which Edward had be a force to reckon with, Alexa was ready to take the world by a storm as his wife. He had since be a very powerful man; Alexa loved power.

    She rubbed her assistant out, not wanting to bother herself with what she would still be reminded ofter.

    However useful Lou was, she could be so repetitive it was borderline maddening. Right now, all Alexa wanted was a hot drink and some sleep.

 Chapter 412 Her fiancÃ©

    <h4>Chapter 412 Her fianc¨¦</h4>

    Her father''s house was one of the biggest in the estate it upied, with its beautiful garden,wns and the decorations that littered the ce.

    It also had a serene and calm ambiance, a deceitful factor really. If only one knew all that went on inside the house itself.

    Alexa hade to learn a long time ago and with that knowledge, the house had lost its stroking beauty.

    As the driver approached the gates that led to the mansion, Alexa jerked herself out her rxed position.

    She leaned forward in her seat to look through her windows at the houses that seemed to move backward, away from the car as they sped past.

    At the gate into her father''spound, they were stopped for inspection by security. The search didn''tst long for when the lead guard came face to face with Alexa''s less than impressed look, he quickly ordered for the gates to be opened.

    "Thank you," she released in a sarcastic fashion as they passed through to the porch steps where the driver stopped.

    After mouthing off instructions to Lou about her pick up time, Alexa exited the car and walked up the front steps that led to the entrance, ignoring every staff she passed on the way.

    She really wanted to be out of there as quickly as possible and stopping to say pleasantries ¡ªwhich she didn''t do normally¡ª was just time wasting.

    In the years that she''d been away, the house had changed a bit. There were new furniture and antiques that Alexa hasn''t seen before, no doubt the work of the slut.

    Her father hardly cared about recing things that didn''t add value to his business. Alexa threw her face away from anything she didn''t recognize, not wanting to acknowledge anything that had to do with that woman.

    After walking into a few empty rooms the woman finally found her father in his study, sipping tea from a customized mug while reading a book with a title that certainly wasn''t in English.

    Silently, she stood at the door, waiting for him to acknowledge her. Even though she could be rebellious at times, Alexa still knew her ce.

    Finally, he looked up from his book and smiled at her. He''d probably been waiting to get to a reasonable point in his book.

    "N¨·''¨¦r," he breathed out softly, then gestured for her to enter.

    Alexa walked in slowly, took off her gloves and presented her hands to him when she got to where he was seated.

    Her father took the hands as though it were a present offered and after kissing the back, offered her a seat.

    "You look beautiful, as always," Hemented.

    "Thank you, father," Alexa replied, basking in thepliment. No matter how many times she''d heard it, every time her father mentioned it, Alexa still blushed. It hit different when thepliments came from the one who bred you.

    "You on the other hand need a vacation; you look terrible."

    Her fatherughed and dropped the book he was holding so he could offer her tea from the pot before him.

    Alexa took the cup he held out to her and took a small sip before returning it to the tray.

    "How was your trip?"

    "Exhausting, I need sleep." Alexa would have yawned just to indicate the truth in her words, but that would be uncultured.

    Mr. Yang nodded in understanding.

    "How long are you around for?"

    Alexa sighed.

    "How long can I beat around the bush father?," whispers Alexa.

    She didn''t want her father to know she was actually interested in Edward; it would make her look soft and thest thing Alexa wanted to be was appear weak before the man that trained her.

    Before Mr Yang could recover from his shock and answer his daughter, a knock came on the door.

    They both looked towards it and his face broke into a smile when he saw Penelope standing there.

    He waved her in and she entered, a smile directed towards Alexa as she approached them.

    "I heard you were around, so I came to say hello," Penelope revealed.

    "Penelope," Alexa simply said in acknowledgement and looked away.

    Undeterred, Penelope lowered herself onto Mr. Yang''sp and ced a peck on his lips. As she scanned the scene before her, Alexa thought to herself: this woman had poisoned my father with her American ways.

    She found it disgusting really; but it was none of her concern, when her father got tired, he would certainly get rid of her.

    "I''m tired father, may I go?" In the meantime, Alexa decided she''d leave first.

    "But dinner is almost ready, don''t you want to stay?" Asked Penelope, innocently.

    Another cringe worthy behavior. In the mafia such act would have attracted execution as punishment. It was sphemous to speak out of ce.

    Alexa didn''t reply, she simply looked to her father for his answer and when he moved his head in approval, quickly stood up and let without another word.

    Mr. Yang knew his daughter didn''t like Penelope and had decided he wasn''t going to force her to.

    With time, she woulde around and if she didn''t then that was of no risk to him. He didn''t need her approval for anything; he was the head of the Yang empire not her.

    "Will she ever like me?" The sadness was evident in the question. It was as though Penelope was close to tears.

    "That is nothing for you to concern yourself with my love. Nowe, let''s go get ready for dinner."

    ***

    Alexa was more than happy to drop face first into bed, her body doing a happy dance as her muscles were finally going to rx.

    The next day was going to be a long one of pruning and pampering herself, as she nned on impressing Edward so much he wouldn''t help but go down on one knee. She was going to be Mrs. Wu one day, she might as well look the part.

    Men always thought that going to the spa and working on yourself was an easy talk, if only they knew the amount of pain one went through just toe out looking like a doll.

    Alexa flicked for the hundredth time when thedy pulled at the wax paper, the hairing off smoothly. She was a tough cookie, but even she was not immune to the pain from waxing.

    Thedies all around her were giggling and gossiping; Alexa didn''t have time for any of those. She hardly even kept friends, that was for the weak.

    Her assistant¡ª the only constant presence in her life¡ª was beside her though, making calls and appointments for Alexa. Yes, she had a rich father but Alexa liked being useful and so had insisted on running her father''s foundation.

    She found the workforting and fulfilling, filling up her time and not allowing room for unimportant thoughts.

    After her wax, shey by the pool while her face was covered by a mask. She was getting bored, which was a first for Alexa so, she grabbed one of the magazines the spa kept on the side table for the guests.

    She flipped through the pages, uninterested until a particr page had her sitting up abruptly.

 Chapter 413 Meeting her

    <h4>Chapter 413 Meeting her</h4>

    "What is this?" asked Alexa as she pped the magazines down in front of her father.

    She had not even changed into her own clothing or cleaned off the drying mask. In her anger, she stormed out of the spa exactly the way she was¡ª all red hot in a bathrobe that, thankfully, covered up to her ankles and hair in a messy bun.

    On getting to her father''s house, Alexa hasn''t even waited for the usual permission to be granted to her before entering his office. She was that angry.

    Mr. Yang simply picked up the magazine and looked at the picture on the page his daughter had left open.

    He had dealt with more difficult issues, an angry daughter was the least of his worries right now.

    He carefully studied the picture, the surprise taking it''s time to register on his face. Now, he understood but still, didn''t condone Alexa''s disrespect.

    "I do not know. Yet, that doesn''t give you the right to storm into my office like that," Mr. Yang cautioned coolly.

    "This was not the arrangement, "Alexa cried.

    "He is a grown man, he can do as he pleases."

    "This was not the arrangement." Alexa repeated as though the first time hadn''t been clear.

    Mr. Yang held up a finger as warning, "Becareful of your tone, youngdy"

    Alexa finally calmed at the sight of the brewing storm in her father''s eyes, she was getting hysterical and on top of that had disrespected him. She needed to take control of herself, he was right.

    She simply nodded and apologized; Alexa was not used to being yed or relegated to the sidelines.

    And even though she didn''t know who the woman was, she knew that was exactly what Edward was doing.

    "Forgive me father, but something has to be done. The wedding ns must go underway."

    "You don''t even know who she is, Alexa. You''re simply jumping to conclusions."

    "I don''t care, I must have Edward."

    "You will, but behave like a mature reasonable human being. Go see him and let him exin, it might be nothing."

    "It has to be nothing, I will be Alexa Wu, wife and liver of Edward Wu."

    Mr Yang sighed. He didn''t know how to handle emotional people.

    "Next time, be in control before you step into my house," He warned in his firmest voice before dismissing her.

    All Alexa could see was red, she couldn''t stop looking at the smiling couple, their hands pped around each other and the look in their eyes.

    Edward was supposed to wait for her. Who then was the tiny slut that he was cradled up against?

    When she finally got a hold on her emotions, Alexa started searching, she wanted to know who this bitch was before she made her move.

    And she was thorough, leaving no stone unturned; no one took what was hers and went free.

    Days after she finds out about Edward and Amy, Alexa attends a socialite''s party where Edward would be in attendance.

    Sinceing to America she hasn''t seen him, this idental meeting was her n to get him alone and without any unwantedpany.

    She got a new dress for the asion, one that barely covered her smooth skin and delicate curves.

    She didn''t have much flesh on her but Alexa had worked on herself enough that men feel at her feet, she would have it no other way.

    The deep blue gown she wrote, exposed the top of her pert breasts, the back very low and a long skirt by the left thigh.

    Her makeup was books and her hair done up with curls sweeping down.

    Her jewelry was minaj as she hardly wore any ever. Alexa''s eyes scanned the crowd as she moved slowly through the event center where the party was taking ce, her n needed to work tonight. She really wanted to know what the hell was going on.

    Edward didn''t want to leave Amy all by herself tonight but had ensured that he would go to the party without her.

    She wasn''t very social andined that it wasn''t her scene, she also wanted to spend some time with Gu Zhou since Edward had been hoarding all of her attentiontely.

    He had pleaded with her, wanting to show her off to his friends and allies but she didn''t want that and he had to respect that.

    He had missed her long and hard before he went, wanting the rate of her to be on his lips throughout the night.

    Now, here he was, missing her like crazy and not interested in one single conversation that was going on around him.

    He hadn''t touched a ss of wine so he was very sober, something he regretted a bit as Paul Witty¡ªan associate of his¡ªwas getting on hisst nerve.

    Edward had finally found a reason to leave Paul but hadn''t expected to catch a glimpse of her when he turned around.

    At first he thought he had been dreaming, but then he saw her againughing with Silver Moon and that was when Edward''s reality came hitting him square in the face.

    As he did their gaping, she looked in his direction and their gazes met.

    A slow smile drew her full red lips apart, her eyes full of fire. Edward spelled his own gaze and looked away, he was not going to give her the satisfaction of knowing she had thrown him off guard.

    That was her n. He moved towards the bar which was what he had been intending to go before he saw her and started a conversation with dimir Krux.

    "You''ve been avoiding me all night my love, I wonder why that is."

    Edward gnashed his teeth, wanting to be anywhere but here at this moment.

    Even Alton have him a look of pity before he sidled away to talk to someone else.

    "Alexa." said Edward as her turned to face her.

    "I''ve missed you so much."

    I I I

 Chapter 414 Accident

    <h4>Chapter 414 ident</h4>

    She ran a hand down the front of his tux, stopping at the end and looking up at him through hershes.

    Edward could not derby the beauty that was Alexa Yang, but his heart has been taken by one far more beautiful.

    "We both know that''s a lie Alexa, you wouldn''t miss your own child if they were too go missing."

    "That was very unnecessary my love. You look dashing."

    Edward brushed her hand away.

    "You don''t need me to swell your already inted ego."

    Men couldn''t pay their eyes off Alexa, even more as she stood taking to Edward; some of them are her up with their gazes.

    Before it would have bothered Edward, now, he didn''t care much. This meeting reminded him of the fact that he needed to call things off with her father.

    "It wouldn''t hurt if you still said it." Alexa said, her voice low and seductive.

    "What do you want Alexa?"

    "I thought you would be more excited to see me, I mean we are to be married soon."

    Edward inhaled sharply.

    "The wedding is off Alexa, this is not what I nned to break the news."

    Anger began to stop into her veins but Alexa controlled herself.

    She was not going to allow this man make her lose her cool; so, she simply smiled and took a sip of her wine.

    "You seem to have forgotten who my father is Edward. Once you make deals with a Yang, you cannot break them." Her voice was cool.

    "You seem to have forgotten who I am Alexa, I am Edward Wu and my word isw. I am not bound by any contact with your father.

    Why don''t you go after something else Alexa, instead of standing here and making unnecessary threats."

    Alexa''s smile twicthed but she reached for Edward anyways and ran her finger foods down hispels.

    She looked him in the eyes, starting as bad as she could but ended up looking away.

    Edward was a powerful man but he had stepped on the toes of a vengeful bitch.

    "I''ll see you when I see you, enjoy your evening Edward."

    She gave him a fleeting smile and walked away. Edward watched her go, his mood having gone sour already.

    He wanted nothing more than toy wrapped in Amy''s hands; he needed to take care of this mess before things got out of hand.

    Thest thing he wanted was to drag Amy into his mess. He went to look for the host of the party so he could take his leave, he would be damned if he let Alexa spoil his mood any further.

    Alexa was beyond angry, Edward Wu had crossed a line he was going to regret. No one there Alexa Yang to the side like she was nothing. That night, when she got home And began to n.

    She used all the information she had gotten in Amy to n; if Edward was going to be stubborn then she had no choice but to take matters into her own hands.

    She was going to have Edward one way or another and she was going to remove every obstacle that was in her way.

    **************

    "Stay close to one another please and no wandering off." The teacher yelled at the scrambling kids.

    Gu Zhou followed his friend Rocky up a hill and over a bridge that led them to a waterfall, it was very beautiful.

    The water was clear and the sound of the rushing water was oddly calming.

    "I wish teacher would allow us go for a swim." Said Gu.

    "Maybe we should ask her." Rocky said excitedly and the a rock into the water.

    Gu Zhou nodded in agreement, equally excited as well and bent down to pick up a pebble to throw into the water too.

    A crashing sound and a final the made him spring back up and look around, Rocky had disappeared.

    He looked to the side of the hill what they had been standing and talked when he saw a blessing Rocky at the bottom.

    "Rocky, hold on. Let me get help."

    Gu Zhou ran as fast as he could to get the teacher.

    ******

    "Hurry up, I''m really nervous " Amy yelled at Edward, chewing her nails as they drove as fast as they could to the school.

    Edward was just as worried as she was, Gu Zhou was a very good boy and hardly got into trouble at school. He hardly even got into trouble at home.

    He didn''t like the anxiety that was written all over Amy, she had been helping him with project when the call came and distracted them both.

    When they got to the school, she jumped out of the car without waiting for him to stop and started for the front doors.

    Edward met up with her in the principal''s office where Gu Zhou was seated outside, a scared look on his face. Edward let Amy handle the principal while he went to sit down beside Gu Zhou.

    "Are you okay buddy?" asked Edward.

    Gu Zhou turned his big brown eyes on Edward and shook his head, tears forming in his eyes. Edward wasn''t one to deal with emotions but he felt this boy''s pain, he really wanted to know what had happened.

    Amy soon came out of the office and without a nce in their direction, she told them to meet her by the car; it was quite obvious that she was angry.

    Edward helped Gu Zhou carry his bag and walked with him to catch up with his sister. Amy hardly got angry but when she did, she always went very quiet and it was always scary to see.

    At the car, Edward helped Gu Zhou in before he entered the driver''s side and they just sat there. He looked over at Amy, grabbing her hand to try and calm her down before he went anywhere.

    "My brother is a good boy." She said firmly, "They insist he pushed the other boy and made him fall down a hill, is that true Gu Zhou?"

    The little boy who had been holding back tears began to sob, his boy shaking from the intensity of his crying. A stray tear fell down Amy''s left cheek but she didn''t give in to the urge to pet him.

 Chapter 415 The visitor

    <h4>Chapter 415 The visitor</h4>

    The little boy who had been holding back tears began to sob, his boy shaking from the intensity of his crying. A stray tear fell down Amy''s left cheek but she didn''t give in to the urge to pet him.

    "Is it true?" Amy asked again, her hand gripping Edward''s tightly.

    "No." Gu Zhou managed to get out.

    "I only bent down to pick the stone and when I looked up, Rocky was not there. I only bent down to pick the stone." Gu Zhou kept repeating.

    Amy''s tears started falling well now, she didn''t know what happened out there on that cliff but she was not going to let anyone frame her brother for something he didn''t do.

    "You won''t go to school tomorrow; I know you didn''t do it but we have to obey the school''s instruction. You will also write an apology letter to Rocky."

    When they got home, Amy made Gu dinner then sent him to his room to rest. He had been shouted at enough in school, she was not going to do the same thing to him.

    Although she was terribly angry that he had gotten himself into a mix up like this.

    Edward walked behind Amy and hugged her from behind, kissing the back of her neck and wanting to help her in any way he could. Amy weed the contact, so grateful that Edward had been there with her today.

    "Thank you." She whispered.

    Edward turned her around and kissed her softly. His fingers went into her hair and started massaging her scalp causing Amy to sigh into the kiss.

    Her hands went up his chest and just stayed there, the contact and the kiss doing very much to calm her nerves.

    Edward broke the kiss and moved his lips down to her neck and nuzzled it before licking the flesh.

    His fingers came out of her hair and grabbed her behind, pressing her firmly against him.

    "I need to get some things done Edward, we can''t." Amy said.

    Edward stopped and looked at her.

    "Is it because of Gu?"

    "There''s that and the project that we left unfinished before we got the call."

    "We can handle the projectter Amy. Right now, I want to help you relieve some of the stress you''re feeling."

    Amy giggled and shook her head, dropping it onto Edward''s chest.

    "no, Edward. Please?"

    He sighed; he didn''t ever want to pressure her into doing what she didn''t want so he agreed. He ced a kiss on her forehead and let her go.

    ********

    Two days after Gu Zhou went back to school, Amy got another call toe down to the principal''s office and her already frayed nerves got even more jingled.

    This time, Edward followed her into the main office to speak with the principal. The man was a bit intimidated by Edward''s presence but did his best not to show it even though Edward saw right through him.

    "We don''t know why Gu Zhou has started acting up all of a sudden, this is very much unlike him." The principal was saying.

    "Yes, Mr Geoffrey. You must have made some mistake; Gu Zhou would never do any of these things that have happened."

    Mr Geoffrey sighed.

    "And there is no problem at home? Nothing that might make him want to act up?"

    "What are you saying?" Edward asked, moving forward in his seat.

    Amy reached out to hold him back, not wanting Edward to make a scene. The principal was a little jolted at Edward''s tone and thanked the universe that this was not Gu Zhou''s guardian.

    "It''s only standard questions I have to ask Mr Wu, I am not implying anything."

    "Forgive my boyfriend, he''s just as worried about Gu Zhou."

    What Edward worried about was the fact that he couldn''t punch this obnoxious man in the face. Neither could he threaten himter as that would be very bad for Gu Zhou.

    "We aren''t going to punish him because up until now Gu Zhou hasn''t gotten into any trouble but we are going to keep investigating what happened."

    "Thank you, Mr Geoffrey."

    "He can have the rest of the day off; Mrs Norm hasn''t forgiven him yet and I would hate to see her get upset again."

    "Ipletely understand."

    "Why the hell is all of this happening?" said a frustrated Amy.

    Amy paced in front of the firece, a wine ss in her hands and a worried look on her face.

    This was the second incident in the span of four days, involving someone that couldn''t even hurt a fly. Something was terribly wrong somewhere; even Edward was beginning to see it.

    "Should I punish him, get him a therapist? Am I missing something?"

    "Amy calm down okay? We will figure this out together."

    Amy kept on pacing though, what if Gu Zhou did something again that led to him being expelled?

    That was a very bad thing to have on your report card in this country, she didn''t want her brother ruining his future before it even began. Edward went to Amy and took her in his hands, cing a peck on her cheeks.

    "Sweetheart, you''re not going to achieve anything with all this pacing. How about you go lie down, while I have a nice chat with him."

    "No, no chatting. Let him stay there and think about what he has done."

    Edward chuckled; he had never understood that punishment. His father had made him do it a lot, Edward had either slept off all the time or yed games.

    He never once thought about the sins he hadmitted. He really wanted to make love to Amy but she was already very agitated and wouldn''t let him so he made her lie down.

    Edward didn''t go home that night until he made sure that both Amy and Gu Zhou were both okay.

    He didn''t actually want to leave them but he had some security clearance to take care of and a meeting with one of his intel''s.

    "Wee back boss, you have a visitor." Viktor ¨C his right-hand man ¨C greeted as Edward came down from his car.

    "Who is it?" asked Edward.

    "Alexa Yang."

 Chapter 416 The deal

    <h4>Chapter 416 The deal</h4>

    What was the leech doing in his house by this time of the night, anger flooded Edward but he managed to control himself. He didn''t have time for nonsense and certainly wasn''t in the mood for it.

    He kissed the housekeeper on the cheeks and let her take his coat before continuing on to the library where Alexa was waiting for him.

    He got there and found her seated in his work chair, spinning round while holding open the book on chess Amy had given him.

    "This is a very lovely boring read Edward, I didn''t know you were into chess." She said, not looking up from the book.

    "What do you want Alexa?" he asked, still standing by the door.

    "That''s the second time you''re asking me that question, of course you know what I want."

    She finally dropped the book and looked up at him, an icy smile on her perfect face.

    "Oh, please doe in. I love the respect."

    Edward''s frown grew deeper, he stayed where he was and folded his hands against his chest.

    "I know about your little slut Edward; I have no idea what is up with men and taking up sluts these days. Anyways, you can end that now darling, I''m back and here to stay."

    "I very much agree that you are back Alexa and being a pest."

    Alexa gasped.

    "Hurtful."

    She stood up from the chair and walked round the table, dragging her fingers along the edge as she went. She walked up to where he was and pouted.

    "You would rather that weak fragile human who is of no consequence than me? Someone of a strong and influential background?"

    "I would rather peace than chaos."

    Alexaughed, but it turned to a re immediately she stopped.

    "You took away your peace the moment you took her into your bed Edward. I would reckon you warned her of me."

    Edward grabbed Alexa''s arm and jerked her, his eyes stone cold and threatening.

    "Don''t you dare make threats Alexa, know your ce."

    She removed herself from his grip and brush past him out of the office. Looking back, she gave him a sweet but cold smile.

    "She should know her ce."

    Edward watched her leave, his body buzzing with the urge to hit something. He really wished he could deal with Alexa but he didn''t want to start a war with her father.

    Edward really needed to set up a meeting with Mr Yang so he could clear the air and the man could put his daughter in check.

    **********

    The next day, he was very exhausted from his over night meeting andck of sleep but he had promised Amy that he would drive Gu Zhou to school today since she had to go to work very early.

    It was funny how they were dating yet, she kept insisting that he treated her like every other staff.

    To Edward, Amy was more than a staff and he would never treat her as one, he allowed some things because he didn''t always want to be fighting with her.

    As he pulls up close to Amy''s house, he notices Gu Zhou standing at the curb with his backpack and ying with a yoyo; but that isn''t what has Edward rushing out of his car.

    It was the speeding vehicle that was headed towards Gu Zhou. Edward ran as fast as he could and barely made it in seconds to push Gu Zhou out of the way, the car hitting over the trash cans instead and then speeding off.

    Edward was too frazzled to get the te numbers, his hands still clutched around a shaking little boy.

    "Are you okay?" Edward asked Gu Zhou.

    "Yes, yes." Gu Zhou said, his voice filled with fear.

    Edward looked in the direction that the car had gone, he was going to find out who that person was and make them pay.

    There was only one suspect on his list though, it couldn''t be coincidence that the night before Alexa hade to his house to threaten Amy and then the next day Gu Zhou had almost been run over.

    He needed to have a talk with her, but first he was going to meet her father because if Mr Yang didn''t get his daughter to back off Edward was going to take drastic actions.

    He also couldn''t tell Amy about this or she would be out of her mind with worry. So, he called the school to get Gu Zhou off for the day and took him to the amusement park instead.

    This kid had been through a lot the past week, Edward really wanted him and his sister to be okay.

    **************

    The Yang''s had established a name for themselves in both China and America and were one of the deadliest mafia''s that existed. No one crossed their path and lived to see the next day.

    Edward respected Mr Yang a lot because the man had helped him when no one else would; but he didn''t cower either.

    Times had changed and Edward''s organisation was no longer the struggling mass that it had once been.

    Like the Yang''s, the Wu''s were also known for their no-nonsense attitude. Edward hadn''t worked hard to build himself up only for it to be all taken away by an angry and jealous child.

    He had set up a meeting with Mr Yang and had been d the man obliged his request. As he walked through the halls of the house, he kept his head held high, showing that he did not fear these people.

    Thest thing a man should ever do in the mafia world was show any fear.

    "Edward Wu, to what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?" Mr Yang asked as Edward stood by the door to his office.

    "There is nothing pleasurable about this visit sir, I havee to sever a deal we made years ago."

    Mr Yang looked up from the tea he was pouring at the young man that stood by his door. He almostughed, but the man was not known for having a sense of humor.

    "And what deal would that be Edward Wu?"

 Chapter 417 The confession

    <h4>Chapter 417 The confession</h4>

    "I have no desire or need to marry your daughter Alexa Yang. We have bothe a long way since that deal, and I think it''s best if we don''t go through with it."

    "Come, sit."

    Edward obeyed, going to sit in one of the leather back chairs that stood in front of Me Yang''s table. He poured another cup of tea and passed it to Edward.

    They both speed from their tea and remained silent for a few seconds before Mr Yang spoke again.

    "You do know that there are very few people who can attempt what you''re doing now and survive it."

    Edward smiled.

    "I respect you greatly Mr Yang, all the more because you helped me be the man I am today. That is why I came to you too tell you I am no longer interested in our deal."

    "One reason, if I like it then the deal is off. If I don''t, you''ll be walking down the aisle in Saturday."

    "Have you ever been in love Mr. Yang?" asked Edward.

    Me Yang lifted a brow in question and sat back in his seat. Again, he was not a man who had a great sense of humor so he didn''t find Edward''s question amusing. He was rather intrigued by it.

    "Men of our social status don''t generally have time to associate ourselves with such words. That doesn''t mean nature didn''t find a way to need with us."

    That was one way to put it, thought Edward.

    "I have found someone I truly want to spend the rest of my life with. I am not saying your daughter isn''t worthy of that position, maybe with someone else but not me"

    "Because you are a man of honor and integrity, another thing I admire about you."

    Mr Yang looked thoughtfully at Edward, his mind running a mile per minute. This young man truly had courage; he would give him that. It was how he was going to deal with Alexa that was the issue, he''s hated nagging women and she had been nagging a lot.

    Maybe he would send he back to China to stay with his mother or Mysia with his sister. That knew how to handle haughty children better.

    "Alexa is not going to be happy."

    "That is not my concern, I expect her to be checked. She has been doing some thingstely that I''m not happy about, but it of respect for you I am not going after her. I expect it to stop."

    "It was nice having you Edward Wu."

    It was settled then. Edward nodded and stood up to leave, but before doing that he presented the gift that he had brought with him. A box of Cuban cigar and a painting from one of the finest artist''s in Puerto Rico.

    "My Penelope is going to love the painting."

    "I''m d."

    ********

    Amy moaned as Edward nipped her ear and hit her g-spot directly. Ever since she met this man, she has been doing some things that she normally wouldn''t dream of doing.

    Having sex in the offices conference room was one of them. Her hands groped his biceps as he continued to thrust into her, her mouth open and moans of pleasure spilling out.

    Sex with Edward was always one wild adventure after the other and he always found new ways to please her.

    He pulled out of her and lifted her legs, pushing them forward until her bottom want touching the table anymore and she was almost folded in two.

    "Oh my God, Edward, please." Cried Amy as soon as he pushed his chick back into her.

    "Please what baby?"

    "Right there."

    Amy''s nerves are on edge and her body jerked with every thrust from Edward. He went fast sometimes and when she thought her head would explode from the sensations choosing through her he would go slow.

    It was like a dance and the possibility of getting caught only heightened the pleasure of it all. Edward couldn''t believe how lucky he was too be owned by such a beautiful gentile creature.

    He wanted to join them together forever, he always wanted to please her, to do her bidding. Amy had him wrapped around her finger and she had no idea about it.

    Edward sunk himself into her tight, at heat and just stayed there, staring at her through her parted thighs.

    She looked so gorgeous with her button top open, her lips red and swollen, her hair was messy from his hands and that look of pleasure that was stered on her face.

    "I love you." Edward whiskers before he started moving again.

    Amy gasped, his words only causing her heart to ache more and her pussy to clench hard. This man knew how to push her button.

    He thrusts grew faster and more frantic and soon they were both screaming into each other''s mouths as they came. Edward panted as he slid of Amy and went to the bathroom to get a wash cloth.

    He cleaned himself up quickly and came back out to clean her up, kissing the red marks on her inner thighs from where he had gripped her. Amy smiled at Edward''s tenderness, always amused when she saw this side of him.

    When he was done cleaning her up, Edward helped her dress well before pulling her onto hisp.

    "Don''t think that you can make me forget what I was about to say by having sex with me Edward." Amy said silently.

    Edward groaned and chuckled, he was losing his touch.

    "Why didn''t you tell me about what happened with Gu Zhou?"

    "I knew he would cave; I need to teach that boy how to keep certain information to himself."

    "You will do no such thing." Amy scolded.

    "I didn''t want you worrying, he''s fine. That''s all that matters." Answered Edward.

    He pushed a stray lock of hair behind her ear and turned her face to his.

    "I still deserve to know Edward. It is my right to worry."

    Edward sighed; women were difficult beings.

    "Hopefully there wouldn''t be a next time, I won''t keep important information like that again. I promise."

    "Thank you."

 Chapter 418 The confrontation

    <h4>Chapter 418 The confrontation</h4>

    Amy kissed his lightly, her tongue ying with his lips but the soon yful kiss turned heated and Edward started groping her again.

    It was difficult but Amy managed to pull herself away from Edward and stood up from hisp.

    "No more, I have to get home and prepare dinner for my brother before he gets back."

    "Aww,e on. I can drop you off and we can get take out."

    Amy was already shaking her head even before Edward finished his statement.

    "You mister have so much unfinished business to take care of. You do that and when you''re done you cane over."

    "But I won''t be done today."

    "Too bad then."

    Amy smiled at Edward''s almost pouting face; he looked so cute. She ced a final kiss on his lips and left the conference room for her own office to get her things.

    The conversation she had with Henry Liu and Jun Mo still y in her head as she watched the building across from where she was parked.

    Those three bastards, she had actually thought they would be in her side seeing as they had known her before the brat that Edward was now dating.

    They had talked to her like she was nothing, telling her to move on from a man she thought of in her every waking breath.

    Edward was hers; she didn''t care whatever her father had to say about the matter. Alexa didn''t even care that the deal had been called off, she still wanted Edward and she was going to have him.

    She just had to get rid of this little yeast that didn''t seem to be going away no matter what she did.

    It was time to take matters into her own hands and make things up close and personal.

    Alexa''s gaze zoned in on the front door and the woman that stepped out, grasping the front of her coat together.

    It was windy and the air smelt like it was going to rain, a possible storm brewing.

    Her eyes followed the woman to the parking lot and the small Honda that she climbed into. Alexa started the engine of her car and waited for the woman to pull out of the lot and into the main road before she started following her.

    Edward had forced her hand and now she was going to make him suffer and beg her to be his. She followed Amy Lee all the way to her house and parked two houses from hers.

    She waited for five minutes after Amy came down from her car and entered the house, before she did the same thing.

    Alexa had dressed up for the asion, she wanted Edward''s Fuck toy to be impressed and intimidated.

    Maybe that would get her to leave her man alone. Alexa reached the front door and rang the doorbell, she looked up and down the street to make sure no neighbor was snooping.

    Amy was shocked when she heard the doorbell, Gu Zhou had a key and would have let himself in; plus, she wasn''t expecting anyone else.

    Removing thest pin from her hair, she put on her flip flops and went down to answer the front door.

    She didn''t recognize thedy who stood on her front porch and was even more rmed when thedy barged in and mmed her door close.

    "Excuse me, who are you and what do you want?" Amy asked as she chased after the stranger.

    She had forgotten her phone in her room and the woman went to stand by thendline in the kitchen which was the only other emergency phone in the house.

    Amy was scared and agitated at the same time, Gu Zhou was due home any minute now and she didn''t want him walking in on this stranger.

    "Who are you?" Amy asked again, this time trying to sound less scared.

    "The question is who are you? And what do you think you are doing with Edward? D¨¤ng f¨´"

    Amy waspletely lost now, since she started seeing Edward this was the first time, she had encountered another woman besides work people that spoke his name.

    "Ma''am I''m going to ask you to leave my house or I''ll alert the neighbors."

    "Calm down little witch, I''m just here to tell you two simple things. One, stay away from Edward Wu and two, I am his wife to be."

    Amy gasped.

    "Edward hasn''t mentioned a fianc¨¦e."

    Alexa chuckled.

    "I hardly doubt a man will tell you he is soon to be married when he really wants to fuck you. And that is all there is to the both of you, sex."

    Alexa moved closer, Amy moving backwards as a reflex.

    "Stay away from my man or you won''t like the consequences." She said in a low chilling voice.

    "Look here, you cannote into my house without an invitation and start making threats like you own the ce. I am going to ask you to please leave and never step foot in this house again."

    "I will do just that when you assure me that you''ll leave Edward alone."

    Amy actuallyughed at that. This was a less than ideal situation but she found that very funny.

    "Leave Edward? Why, I don''t think so. Now leave before I start screaming."

    "You''re going to regret your decision."

    "The fact that he hasn''t mentioned you or referred to you in anyway is quite shocking honestly.

    I handle almost all of Edward''s affairs and you have never once popped up even by mistake, I think you must be confused about the Edward you are talking about. Please leave, you have the wrong house."

    Alexa was very angry now; this woman was mocking her. She couldn''t control the anger anymore; she grabbed a knife from the holder and walked quickly to Amy and stabbed her in the chest.

    Amy hadn''t seen iting or she would have moved out of the way, one minute the crazy woman was standing there and the next Amy felt herself falling as the world slowly became ck.

 Chapter 419 Holding on

    <h4>Chapter 419 Holding on</h4>

    She could taste iron in her mouth before the feel of liquid registered in her senses. Herst thoughts were about who was going to take care of Gu Zhou as she was about to die.

    Alexa smirked and adjusts her suit jacket; she had warned her but she''s at hard of hearing. Picking up her purse, she walked out of the house like nothing had happened.

    *****

    Edward was a stubborn and insistent man; Amy would just have to learn to love that part of him too and ept it. He had started working but had grown tired and had started missing her very badly.

    Nothing was more important than Amy, not even his work. So, he had packed everything up and put on his suit jacket.

    He was going over earlier than was expected; of course, she was going to be mad but the make-up sex was always the best.

    Edward decided to get some food even though she was going to cook, they could always eat it as breakfast the next day or a midnight power snack. He also got her some ixora''s from her favorite florist.

    Edward berated himself a little as he drove to Amy''s house, his face all smiley and his heart beating faster with every mile he covered.

    He was the head of a very powerful organization but couldn''t seem to focus anymore because of one tiny human being. He would have to pick up his ck at some point but that point was not today.

    Edward drive as fast as he could, his arms itching to hold Amy again; she fit so perfectly against him.

    Just as he was pulling up into her driveway, he saw Gu Zhouing down from a jeep and wondered why the young boy was justing home now.

    He went over to greet the woman that was dropping him off and to also make sure that Gu Zhou was okay.

    "How was school today?" asked Edward as they walked to the house together.

    "It was awesome, we yed a lot of games." Gu Zhou replied, happiness clear in his voice.

    "What about studying?"

    "We did that too, a little bit."

    Edward parted his shoulder, head only asked because he knew Amy would ask. That had been the primary reason for the sleepover and he wasn''t sure she was going to like the sound of Gu Zhou having spent half the time ying games.

    "Where is my sister?" Gu Zhou asked.

    "She''s already home."

    They both walked to the door, talking about Gu Zhou''s sleep over and the fun that he had. Edward rang the doorbell and waited for an answer, when Amy didn''te rushing to get it he rang the bell again.

    He began to get worried when she didn''t answer after the fourth ring, that was so unlike Amy. Gu Zhou got out his keys and put it in the lock but the door came open even before he turned the key.

    That was when Edward knew something was wrong. He pushed the door open and entered the house carefully, just in case there was an intruder waiting to pounce.

    He made Gu Zhou stay by the front door, not wanting to put the boy in harm''s way if there was truly danger. The way Amy''s house was designed, you had to go through the kitchen to get into the other parts of the house.

    Edward''s blood turned cold and his heart seized beating for a few seconds when he saw the pool of blood.

    He threw the flowers and food on the table and rushed round to the other side what his life came crashing to a stop.

    There,ying lifeless, with a knife stuck out of her chest was the woman he would do anything for. Edward quickly got out his cell phone and called for an ambnce.

    He wanted so badly to hold her but the medics had told him not to touch her in case she was still alive.

    Edward hopped she was or he was going to burn a lot of things down. He was very angry and board to kill the person who had done this.

    "What is wrong?"

    Edward jerked and turned away from Amy''s body, her hadpletely forgotten about Gu Zhou.

    He quickly went to the boy before he coulde any closer and see his sister in that state. Edward hugged him even as the boy fight against his hold.

    "What is wrong?" Gu Zhou asked again.

    Edward felt his heart break for both himself and the boy. Right now, he was helpless and Edward hated feeling helpless.

    The police and medics soon came and while they did their job, Edward kept Gu Zhou or of the way.

    He wanted to follow after them when they carried Amy''s body or of the house and into the ambnce but the police had questions.

    Edward told them everything he knew and they asked him that they would do their best to find the person who did it.

    Fuck them if they actually thought Edward was going to sit on his ass and let the police drag or the matter. He sent a quick text to Viktor and had his team ready to carry out an investigation at once.

    Since they couldn''t stay in the house as it was now a crime scene, Edward would have to take Gu Zhou in.

    He was more than happy to, anything to make Amy less worried when she woke up. Amy, his Amy, rushed to the hospital with a knife sticking out of her chest.

    She had looked blue and dead, the woman he had said goodbye a few hours ago was now fighting to hold on to her life. Edward wanted to scream, he wanted to hit something; he also wanted to yell in frustration but couldn''t do any of these things.

    Edward drive like a mad man to the hospital, sitting Gu Zhou all the way that his sister would

    be fine when he, Edward, was scared shitless.

    He wanted to get to the hospital and find Amyughing and giving out that her amazing smile that lit up a room. He wanted this to be done sort of sick joke, but it wasn''t.

 Chapter 420 Finding the culprit

    <h4>Chapter 420 Finding the culprit</h4>

    At the hospital, no one would give him a definitive reply as everyone was scrambling about from one emergency to another.

    He tried to get information from the desk nurse but she kept telling him repeatedly that she had no news on Amy.

    It was all so heart wrenching and the worst part was Edward didn''t know how tofort Gu Zhou.

    The only other time Edward had been in this kind of situation was when his father died; Edward didn''t do emotions because that was how he had been trained.

    It seemed like Amy brought it the worst qualities in him. Finally, after what felt like hours someone came out to talk to him.

    "My name is doctor Archie Carlensky." The man said.

    "Edward Wu, I''m miss Lee''s boyfriend and this is her brother."

    The doctor gave Gu Zhou a tight smile before looking back at Edward; the man looked tired and worn out, Edward pitied him a bit.

    "Well Mr Wu, you got there just in time to save your girlfriend. The knife didn''tcerate her heart but a tissue beside it so the damage was minimal.

    Whoever struck her didn''t do it with enough force to cause a lot of damage."

    Edward sighed, his body finally rxing just a little bit.

    "She''s going to be fine, sour and swollen for weeks but she''ll be alright. It might also take some time for her to speak so please be patient with her." The doctor continued.

    "I won''t pressure her at all."

    "Good, I will tell the police the same thing too. Miss Lee also suffered from head trauma due to the way she fell on the floor.

    We expect it won''t lead to any future problems but the swelling there should go down in a week. Dorothy will give you her medication regime and what she needs."

    As the doctor spoke, a kind looking woman cane to stand beside him, aforting smile on her face.

    Edward hated hospitals by these people seemed to know what they were doing. When the doctor was done giving out instructions, he asked if they could go in and see Amy.

    "Maybe tomorrow, for now she needs to rest." Dorothy replied.

    "If you can inform her work about what happened, her family too."

    "Work is covered, and we are all the family she''s got."

    Dorothy''s smile grew even morepassionate as she turned to face Gu Zhou who had been silently crying.

    "Hi sweetie, do you want a juice box or snack?" She asked him nicely.

    Gu Zhou looked to Edward for permission. Edward was taken aback by the gesture; he had known the boy would warm up to him. Plus, now that his sister was indisposed Edward was all that he had.

    "It''s fine, you can go."

    Edward''s eyes followed them though, after all that had happened today and the previous week, he was not taking any chances where it concerned Amy and Gu Zhou.

    Before leaving the hospital, he made sure to ce some men to watch Amy discreetly. He didn''t trust the patrol car the cops had kept outside or the one man that was to sit outside her door till she was released, the police always found a way to mess things up.

    *****

    The search for who attempted to murder Amy fills up Edward''s time as he waits for the hospital to give the heads up and release Amy. His team is one of the best and it doesn''t take them time before they have a list of suspects.

    Even the police are yet to have one, Amy barely had enemies. Edward was just getting back from a security meeting when he met Viktor and the head of his research unit waiting for him in his office.

    He loosened his tie and unbuttoned his jacket, his body missing the weing smile and scent of Amy.

    She usually had a cup of coffee and a massage waiting for him after every stressful meeting; even before they had started dating. He missed her so much which only made his anger towards the person that had tried to kill her worse.

    "Tell me you have something good for me." Edward said through gritted teeth.

    "We have names." Viktor replied and opened the file in his hand.

    He ced it on the desk before Edward and allowed him to read through. All the names were people that Edward was involved with; of course, this would be an attack on him.

    Like he had said, Amy barely had enemies and he couldn''t imagine anyone wanting to hurt her. One name stood out as bright as day and it couldn''t be a coincidence that it was there.

    Edward squeezed the paper in anger and looked at Viktor with bloodshot eyes. He had barely had enough sleep and was running on pure adrenaline.

    "Get me Alexa Yang''s coordinates now. I warned that little bitch but she wouldn''t just listen."

    Viktor and the research team leader were out the door in a sh, not wanting to piss their boss further by being tardy. Edward fumed, he knew he needed to calm down and think rationally but be was beyond being rational.

    He was tired of Alexa always causing trouble for him and was finally going to put an end to the bitch. He didn''t care what her death would cause, he just knew he had to do it.

    It took a day for them to find her, and the second Edward was given her location he set out to find her. Typical that she would be someone where she could get all the attention she wanted and boss people around.

    The spoilt brat had rented an entire saloon for the day. Who made their hair in an entire day?

    "Clear the room." Edward Todd one of his men as he walked to where Alexa was seated.

    "Edward, darling, you have finallye to see me."

    Edward kept on walking till he came to a stop two chairs before her own. He sat down in the plushfortable seat in front of one of the mirrors and swiveled it until he was facing her.

 Chapter 421 Break up

    <h4>Chapter 421 Break up</h4>

    Edward kept on walking till he came to a stop two chairs before her own. He sat down in the plushfortable seat in front of one of the mirrors and swiveled it until he was facing her.

    "I appreciated the value and lessons we were thought as children to be fearless, courageous and take whatever we wanted.

    I don''t know if your father taught you but my father also taught me that there was a thin line between courage and stupidity."

    "I took care of a problem so we can be together darling, do not call me stupid." Alexa said, venom in her voice.

    "The only problem here is you. And I don''t mind getting rid of my problems"

    Alexa began tough, her body shaking and her head thrown back. She stopped and smiled at Edward.

    "You''re not going to kill me love, that is just going to start an unnecessary war."

    "I think your father would be d to be rid of you."

    Alexa hissed and snared, she looked like the witch that she was without all the make-up and pretty smile.

    "I love her, maybe when a bullet is in your brain those words can sink in."

    "You must be very stupid then if you think I woulde unprepared to this saloon."

    ss broke and smoke filled the entire room as soon as she said that. Edward began to cough and his eyes watered from whatever gas they had thrown inside the room. He stood up from his chair and looked around but couldn''t find Alexa.

    "Till we meet again, my love." Her voice excited throughout the room.

    "Bloody bitch! Don''t let her get away." Edward yelled through his coughing fits.

    But it was toote, Alexa was already gone and all his men were choking from the gas. Someone grabbed him by the shoulder and dragged him out of the building and into fresh air.

    His lungs sucked in the clear air, trying to dispel the remaining gas that was still choking him. His anger was ten gold now, Edward was not going to stop looking for Alexa.

    Unfortunately, after that day, she went to hide in her father''s organization to protect herself. They both knew that no matter how angry Edward was, killing Alexa on Yang soil was going to start an even bigger war than killing her on neutral grounds.

    Also, Edward respected Mr. Yang enough to back off his hunt for Alexa; instead he filled his time with looking after Amy. She had started healing and was even taking but by bit but not to him, never to him.

    He would walk in on her and Gu Zhou chatting but she would immediately lock up when she saw him.

    No matter how much he tried, he couldn''t get her to speak to him and he couldn''t me her. He wouldn''t me her; she was in this state because of him.

    Finally, when she was strong enough to start doing things for herself, Amy insisted that she wanted to be free from Edward''spany.

    Of course, he was not going to let her out of his sight; she had almost been killed and was barely recovered.

    Also, Edward loved having her in his house and in his bed, he was not going to allow her to just walk out into the world, open and vulnerable to more attacks.

    "Please Edward, let us leave." Pleaded Amy.

    "No. You don''t even have anywhere to go; you can''t go back to your house."

    "Thank God it''s under insurance, yourpany is getting me a new one. Stop making excuses Edward, I am tired of them."

    Edward sighed. He couldn''t believe this was happening.

    "I love you Amy, that''s ¡ª"

    "I don''t need you to love me Edward, I don''t want you to love me. That is what got me here in the first ce." Amy yelled, well close to it.

    She hadn''t fully gotten to that part yet in her recovery.

    "I''m sorry I didn''t tell you about Alexa."

    "You don''t tell me a lot of things Edward and I feel a fool just allowing you to lead me on. I can''t keep doing this with you, I just can''t."

    "What are you saying?"

    Amy sobbed.

    "I''m saying we''re done Edward; I am leaving your house and your life."

    "No, baby. Anything but that, please anything but that. I need you."

    "And I don''t need you."

    Amy dropped the shirt she had been folding and walked out of the room, she could not stand to watch his heart get broken. Yes, she had said the words but she knew it was a lie.

    All she wanted was for him to hold her and assure her that everything would be okay but she needed to be strong.

    She hadpromised far too much where it concerned Edward; she needed him to know that she could be strong and independent. She was tired ofpromising and putting herself and her brother in harm''s way

    *********

    So, this was what his life hase to, sulking over bourbon and sad music. Edward felt pathetic, he was very sure he looked pathetic too.

    How he managed to ruin the only good thing that was a constant in his life. He had let her go, not because he was being a coward but because it was the right thing to do.

    Making her stay would have only worsened the matter. He loved Amy so much and was willing to do anything for her, even if it meant letting her go.

    Even his friends were totally useless in this case, he had met up with them the other day and they had only seeded in making him feel worse.

    "Forget about her man, you''re Edward Wu girls are going to have a taste." Henry said.

    "What the fuck man." Scolded Jun Mo.

    Edward had just sat there, drinking and listening to them rant.

    "I mean look at the poor guy, one of the greatest mafia lords. Pussy whipped and looking like a failure. Just forget about her man."

    Edward had gotten angry at Henry''s words and pulled a gun on him. Henry had been scared but had still wanted in, knowing his friend would not shoot him.

    "Don''t you dare talk trash about Amy."

    "I''m just saying, the best thing would be for you to move on."

    But Edward couldn''t move on, he couldn''t get her taste of his lips no matter how much he consumed, he couldn''t get herughter or her smile out of his head.

    No matter how he tried, he couldn''t get her out of his system and he didn''t want to. He wanted to down in the memories of that was all he could have.

 Chapter 422 Done

    <h4>Chapter 422 Done</h4>

    But Edward couldn''t move on, he couldn''t get her taste of his lips no matter how much he consumed, he couldn''t get herughter or her smile out of his head.

    No matter how he tried, he couldn''t get her out of his system and he didn''t want to. He wanted to down in the memories of that was all he could have.

    mming the cup down in the bar, Edward stood up from the stool he was seated in and walked out of the club. He went to his car, started the engine and put the car in drive.

    He knew he shouldn''t but he couldn''t bring himself to stop; he just had to try one more time. One more time and if she still rejected him then he would stop trying.

    Edward didn''t have a lot to live for but he would be damned if he lost the one thing that had brought meaning to his life just like that.

    He broke every speed rule there was and didn''t care if he got a ticketter, he had to get to Amy immediately and show her that he was ready to fight for her. He was not going to allow anything thing toe between them, including her.

    Thepany had gotten them a house in a safer district at his request and he had also put guards on duty to watch her and Gu Zhou every second.

    He knew that she had yet to get a job since the guards reported directly back to him. He had wanted to help but had been a bit skeptical about messing with her affairs as she had made it abundantly clear that he should stay out of her life.

    Not anymore, Edward was done doing her bidding; now, he was going to seize the initiative and do what he wanted. Even if she didn''t need him, he needed her like he needed his next breath.

    He was done hiding in a corner and drinking his sorrows away from a bottle.

    He was going to ce himself in her life like a permanent fixture and was going to annoy her until she caved in. that was how much he loved Amy Lee and he was willing to go the extra mile just to show her that.

    Like the first night that Edward had confessed his love for her, he walked up to her door like a mad man and pounded hard on it; ignoring the fact that she had a doorbell.

    When no one answered, he knocked hard again and was about to break the door in from impatience when he heard footsteps. The door swung open and an angry looking Amy appeared behind it.

    "Are you crazy? It''ste at night and you are banging on my door like a mad man." She whisper-yelled.

    Edward couldn''t help himself, she looked so beautiful standing there in a light pink robe that enveloped her small body and her hair messy from bed.

    She looked hot angry, she just looked hot in general. He grabbed her and mmed his lips unto hers, their teeth shing from the impact.

    Amy gasped when Edward groped her breasts and bottom right there on the porch as he kissed her like a wild caveman. She struggled against him at first but he wouldn''t let her go, instead he deepened the kiss and held her tighter.

    Amy soon gave up the fight and just let herself be swept away in the rushing tide. She held on for dear life as Edward took and feasted on her like a man that hadn''t eaten a meal in weeks.

    When her lips were swollen and raw, he let them go and attacked her ears; sucking on them like they were ripe fruit.

    Amy moaned as he shoved his left hand underneath herpel and tweaked her nipple. It was when a cool breeze blew against her exposed flesh she realized that they were still standing outside.

    She pulled away from his grasp, her chest heaving fast and hard just like his own. They both had a wild look about them, like they had juste from a wrestling match.

    "I have neighbors Edward, please respect yourself." She said

    Edward growled and stomped into the house, mming the door shut and even locking it for good measure. When he turned back to face her, she was walking away and he was having none of that.

    He went after her and grabbed her from behind, his hands pressing against her breasts as he held her to him. He began to fondle them, massaging them as he continued to y with her ears.

    Amy heard herself moaning and was appalled at her behavior but her body knew what it wanted. No matter how much she tried to lie to herself, she knew she missed him terribly and she wanted whatever was going to happen to happen.

    Edward tore the robe off her shoulders and spun her around, he picked her up and wrapped her legs round his waist.

    He walked forward until her back hit the wall that was beside the staircase, a burst of air leaving Amy''s lips.

    He didn''t wait for her to settle; he attacked her lips again like a man on a mission. Amy cried out into the kiss when she felt his cold fingers against the flesh of her inner thighs and moaned loudly when they trailed up till, they were stroking her clit.

    "Edward." She cried as he moved the fingers from her clit to her entrance and pushed them inside.

    Edward had missed her so much; right now, he wanted to fuck her unconscious and he was going to do exactly just that.

    Amy couldn''t stop her hips from responding to Edward''s touch. She had missed him too so much. He tasted just as she remembered, a bit of alcohol on his breath but she didn''t mind. Edward knew how to handle his liquor so he wasn''t afraid that he was drunk.

    "Gu Zhou?" he asked as his fingers slid in and out of her.

    Amy''s senses were reeling from Edward''s touch but she still managed to force out a breathlessughter.

    "Now? You ask now?"

    Edward hooked his fingers and began to rub against her soft spot in ae-hither manner.

    Amy cried out, a sob leaving her lips from the pleasure that rocked through her body. If Edward continued what he was doing she was going to embarrass herself and squirt all over his hands.

    "Edward, please stop." She cried.

    "Why?" asked Edward, increasing the pace of his rubbing.

    Amy''s legs were shaking and she could barely keep them locked around his waist.

    "Oh God, right there, yes."

    Edward moved his lips to her ear, his hot breath fanning against her neck as his tongue yed with her lobe.

    He kept on rubbing, enjoying the way she was shaking against him. Amy''s cries got louder until she started squirting, her body jerking against Edward''s.

    Edward smiled against her neck, cing a soft kiss there and holding her firmly until she stopped squirting. Amy''s cheeks turned pink in embarrassment when she looked up into Edward''s eyes.

    "That was beautiful, I''ve missed you." Whispered Edward

    "I haven''t missed you."

    "I guess we would have to do something about that won''t we, Gu Zhou?"

 Chapter 423 Moments

    <h4>Chapter 423 Moments</h4>

    "That was beautiful, I''ve missed you." Whispered Edward

    "I haven''t missed you."

    "I guess we would have to do something about that won''t we, Gu Zhou?"

    "He is at a friend''s house."

    "Good, because I am about to make you scream."

    And Edward proceeded to do just that, all night long. By the time they were done, the sun was already peeking out at them and Amy was very sore and exhausted.

    If she had the strength, she would have kicked him out of her bed but she didn''t, so she let him spoon her.

    A smile on her face as she slept off. Later that day, they both woke up around past eleven, their bodies still sore but rested a bit.

    Edward grabbed Amy before she could leave the bed and turned her to face him. His fingers brush against her soft skin, his eyes zoning in on the stitch mark from where the knife cut had been sewn.

    He gently brushed his fingertips against it then bent down to kiss it.

    "I made a terrible mistake letting you go Amy." Edward started saying but she put her fingers over his lips.

    Amy shook her head; she was not ready to hear those words said again because she knew. She knew deep in her heart that if he said it, she would be forced to acknowledge the truth that she hade to realize over the weeks they had been apart.

    Edward removed her hands from his lips and smiled at her.

    "I made a mistake and I havee to rectify it."

    "I am not good for you Edward; I am too weak to live in your world."

    "No, don''t say that. You are the strongest part of my world Amy Lee; without you my entire world would copse."

    "You''re just saying that to make me feel good."

    Edward sat up and took her with him, the light from the windows ying on their bodies.

    "I hardly say thing I don''t mean Amy, that is not my way and you know it."

    Amy didn''t want to believe him; she didn''t know why she was fighting him either.

    "I love you; I will always love you Amy and I am going to keep saying it until you believe me."

    She couldn''t hold the tears anymore, Amy started crying. Edward didn''t try to stop her, he just held her against him and allowed her get it all out.

    She cried for what seemed like hours but was only five minutes before the raking stopped. She looked up at Edward with her swollen red eyes and tear stained face, to him she couldn''t have looked anymore beautiful.

    "I love you too, Edward."

    He was a bit taken back by her words; he hadn''t expected her to say them back. In fact, he had been prepared just incase she never said the words back to him. To hear those words from her was a bit overwhelming.

    Edward brought her face closer and gently caressed her lips with his own. They stayed locked together like that until the ringing of the doorbell drew them apart.

    "Are you expecting someone?" he asked.

    "It''s Gu. He has a key, but the ringing of the doorbell first is a new rule."

    Edward kissed her onest time before he left the bed and went to her bathroom to clean up. Amy stood up too and pulled her robe back on then left the room to go and greet her brother.

    "Good morning sister ," greeted Gu Zhou.

    "How was your sleepover?"

    "Ronnie made us y zombie wars, it was pretty scary."

    "That''s nice."

    Amy went to the fridge to get ingredients to make breakfast, she knew Gu Zhou would have eaten, but she needed something to do.

    Edward was going to show up soon anyways and from their activities the previous night and early this morning she was sure he would be very hungry.

    "Is Edward around?" asked Gu Zhou.

    "What makes you ask?"

    "Well, I saw his car in the driveway and you''re still in your bathrobe. This scene kind of feels like deja vu."

    "You are spot on there, little buddy."

    Amy red at Edward when he entered the kitchen all dressed up like he had juste from a business meeting.

    "How are you doing?"

    Edward ced a kiss on Amy''s neck and went to take a seat beside Gu Zhou.

    "Excited to finally be on holidays but Amy is thinking about sending me to summer school."

    "Why is that?"

    Edward looked at Amy.

    "Is the best decision she said, "He needs the extra grades."

    "I worked hard all year, you promised we could go on vacation this summer."

    "There is the Christmas break, work even harder."

    "Come on babe, give the kid a break."

    Amy red again at Edward.

    "This is not up for discussion; you go put your things away." She pointed at Gu Zhou with the spat in her hands.

    The kid stood up, grumbling as he walked away with his backpack slung over his shoulder.

    "You, stop meddling."

    "He deserves a break after everything he has been through Amy."

    "We don''t have money for a vacation Edward, until I find a new job, I can''t afford the extra spending."

    "You could always have your old job back."

    "That''s just me looking desperate Edward."

    Edward stood up and went to stand behind Amy, linking his hands together around her. He kissed her behind the neck again and just stood silent for a few seconds.

    "I have missed your skills at the office, you should see the mess Holly is making trying to cover up for you."

    "Now, you''re just patronizing."

    Edward chuckled and turned her to face him. This woman was absolutely difficult.

    "I''m serious,e back to work Amy. Please."

    She pouted.

    "I''ll think about it. In the meantime, sit your butt down while I make you breakfast."

    "Yes, ma''am."

    He ced a long, wet kiss on her lips before going to do as he had been told.

 Chapter 424 Kidnapping

    <h4>Chapter 424 Kidnapping</h4>

    Things couldn''t have turned out better for Edward, he had the love of his life back safe and sound and they were happy.

    They still had a lot to work on¡ª like how Edward was yet to introduce Amy to his other side, but he suspected she knew about it and was waiting for him to bring it up.

    He hadn''t found the opportunity yet and was looking for the right way to tell her. He didn''t want any more secrets or surprises between them.

    At his insistence they had moved in with him; that is he could watch them round the clock and still get to spend time with them.

    He and Amy were learning how to navigate their work and rtionship without the two shing.

    They were also learning all that they could about each other so they knew when they were stepping out of line.

    Some days were difficult; those days it always seemed like they were choking and wouldn''t get out of the suffocating hold it had on them, but they always came out stronger.

    "Hi baby," Edward greeted as he entered the kitchen.

    He walked up to Amy and gave her a kiss on the lips, she responded and went back to what she had been folding.

    Edward gave Gu Zhou a high five and then ced two tickets in his palms. Amy looked at the tickets, her brother''s beaming face and her boyfriend''s indifferent one.

    "Where are you taking him?" asked Amy.

    "I got him tickets to the baseball game in Florence."

    Amy dropped the spoon she had been holding and folded her hands, ring at Edward.

    "Who exactly is going to follow him to Florence?"

    "A friend, you, Viktor? Really, anyone can follow him to Florence Amy."

    "Talk. Sitting room. Now."

    Amy didn''t wait to see if Edward was following after her, she just kept walking until she was standing in front of the fire ce in the sitting room.

    Edward winked at Gu Zhou and went after his fuming girlfriend. He wondered why Amy was always so hard on Gu Zhou. The boy deserved to have a normal childhood like every other child.

    Amy didn''t look happy at all when he met up with her. She raised a hand when he made to draw closer to her, stopping him from moving any further

    "What''s the big deal?" asked Edward.

    "I don''t want him getting used these luxuries Edward. I caved in about moving in with you because that was the only way to get you to shut up about it.

    You can''t keep doing stuff for us Edward, what if we stop seeing each other?"

    "My love, stop talking like that. Nothing, nothing at all is ever going to make us stop seeing each other. I am sticking with you even if you grow tired of me."

    Amy chuckled and shook her head.

    "You are crazy Edward."

    "About you? Very much. Let the boy have his fun, he deserves it. I will arrange for someone to escort him to Florence and if you want to follow him then I am more than happy to allow you to go."

    "I see, so you can move around with another woman?" Amy quirked a brow, teasing.

    "How can I? no onepares to you Amy Lee."

    Amy entered Edward''s embrace and kissed him. She loved this man so much, but her heart couldn''t help but feel wary.

    She felt like there was a certain doom looming over their happiness. Amy tried to get it out of her mind, but she couldn''t shake the feeling off.

    Edward had one of the female agents in his organization follow Gu Zhou to Florence since Amy wasn''t feeling up to it.

    After a lot of scrutinizing and worrying, she finally approved of the agent and allowed the trip to happen.

    She followed them all the way to the departure doors, her hand firmly clutching Gu Zhou''s.

    "Make sure you''re careful at all times and you pay attention to instructions," Amy cautioned Gu Zhou sternly.

    "Allow the boy Amy," Edward admonished pulling her back.

    He held her in case she had the urge to run onto the ne and drag Gu back.

    Amy worried all the way back to the house and she didn''t stop until Edward got her excited and they had sex.

    "You have some very unorthodox methods of doing things Mr Wu," Amy used groggily.

    "That was the only way I could think of, you were biting your flesh at a point. You aren''t even a mother yet."

    "I already feel like one."

    "Just calm down Amy, he is in perfectly fine hands with Yizet."

    Amy had no choice but to believe Edward. Two days after Gu Zhou had left and she was satisfied that indeed he was okay, her level of worry had dropped.

    *******

    Amy was doing some shopping at Edward''s insistence the day it happened. She had just finished paying for the items she had bought when there was amotion outside.

    People were screaming as a van headed towards the entrance of the boutique, the ss door shattering and the vaning to a stop.

    Two hooded figures jumped out of the side of the open van and ran towards her. Amy was too shocked to move; she didn''t even fight when they grabbed her hands and pulled her into the van.

    It was only when they put a g cloth bag over her head that what was happening registered and she began to scream.

    "Shut up!" One of them shouted and pped her hard.

    Amy burst into tears from the sting and hurt, she couldn''t believe what was happening to her. Who had she offended and why were they doing this?

    First it was a knife to the chest from one of Edward''s crazy ex and now she was being kidnapped.

    She really wished Edward heard in time and found her before this people did anything lethal to her. Her thoughts also went to Gu Zhou and she prayed that he was really safe in Florence.

 Chapter 425 Losing her

    <h4>Chapter 425 Losing her</h4>

    Edward was worried and angry when he got the news. Why exactly were his men proving to be useless?

    He had put two guards on Amy and none of them had even been able to get as little as a te number from the van.

    He had been so furious that he had shot one of them in the leg.

    He ced a call to Florence and was d when he got news from Yizet that nothing had happened to Gu Zhou.

    He wanted to yell, and he did when he was in the privacy of his home office with only Viktor present.

    "Why the fuck is this happening to us?" Edward screamed swiping his hand across his table. A figurine fell and broke into pieces; it was an expensive item Edward had gotten from France.

    He scoffed and looked away from the broken shards; that was thest thing on his mind right now.

    "Why hadn''t anyone said anything to me Viktor, who are these men and what do they want?"

    "We are working on it sir."

    "Work faster!" Yelled Edward.

    He was really pissed off because this was the second time he had failed to protect Amy. He felt like a fool and a failure, two things Edward hated feeling like.

    Just as he was about to storm out of his office, his cell phone rang. The caller ID showed a private number.

    "Who is this?" Edward asked, anger clear in his voice.

    The voice was muffled and sounded electronic a bit so it could have been a man or a woman.

    "You have two days to hand over the authority of your organization or you won''t be seeing your precious girlfriend again."

    "I demand to know who this is."

    "You are not in the position to be making demands Mr. Wu. Do as you''re told or Miss Lee dies."

    The call was cut and furious, Edward threw it against a wall. Viktor looked on, his face stoic but his heart hurting for his boss.

    The man had never known love or family, even Viktor had grown used to Amy''s brightening presence.

    "Um sir, maybe you shouldn''t have done that."

    Edward turned steel eyes on Viktor, he wanted to be angry but knew the man''s words were true.

    "Can we still get anything from it?"

    "I''ll take it to Sam, ask him if he can trace where the call came from."

    "Thank you, Viktor."

    "We''ll find her sir, we will."

    Edward sighed and slumped down into his chair. He was very tired and frustrated. When he got Amy back, he was not going to allow her out of his sight for one second.

    He was mentally and physically exhausted at this point. The search for Amy had gone on for days now with Edward trying to stall the request they had made as ransom for as long as possible.

    Finally, Sam was able to get them a lead and the possible locations that Amy could be at.

    "Are you sure about this Sam?" Asked Edward, not wanting to chase tails.

    "They have been very good at covering their tracks, especially with the phone calls but these three locations have been bouncing back and forth on the radar. It has to be one of them." Sam exined.

    "Okay then, Viktor you take some men and check the warehouse; Coby, you check the farm in Main field. I''ll take the boathouse here, let''s keep upmunication through our radios. Please be careful."

    "Got it boss." Both men responded and left at once.

    Edward took two men with him, his blood hot to get to the location. He hoped that was where Amy was so he could do some serious damage to the fuckers that took his Amy.

    The boathouse that Sam had drawn as one of their potential locations was quite a distance from Edward''s house so it took them some time to get there.

    They drafted a n on the way,municating with the others when they could. They were to watch each other''s backs and their surroundings.

    When they got to the boat house, they split up and started searching for Amy. Edward went around the building to the back, where the water was; he saw a shadow moving and chased after it.

    The light of the moon was dim so it was a bit hard to see but he could make out a form by the water.

    As Edward moved closer, he noticed that it was actually two people by the water and not one person.

    Getting closer, he recognized Amy, she was at the edge of the pier with a gun pointed at her head. Edward screamed her name and began to run for the water.

    But he wasn''t as fast as the bullet. The gun went off and the sound pierced through his heart like a million knives.

    Edward stopped sharply and watched as Amy fell backwards into the river, his heart bursting open and a wild roar tearing out of him. He lifted his gun and shot the retreating figure, but he was too far gone now for the bullet to reach.

    Edward kept shouting and shooting though, like a man possessed. When he got to the spot that Amy had been shot, he crashed to his knees and looked in the water but there was no body.

    He yelled for his men toe and help him, making them enter the water to search for her. They searched for hours but couldn''t find Amy''s body which was quite suspicious.

    Edward didn''t leave that spot though and for the first time in years cried till his eyes were bloodshot.

    He poured his heart out as he reyed the scene of his lover being shot over and over again.

    He had nned to propose to her, he was going to marry her. The one person that was his anchor in this world and she was gone.

    What was he going to tell Gu Zhou? How was he going to begin exining that his sister was dead and he, Edward, hadn''t been able to save her in time before it happened.

 Chapter 426 [Bonus chapter] Losing her(2)

    <h4>Chapter 426 [Bonus chapter] Losing her(2)</h4>

    Finally, daylight came and with it more help to search for Amy''s body, but all their efforts proved useless. There was only one reasonable exnation to this, the river''s current had been very fast and swept her away immediately she fell in.

    From that day on Edward was a broken mad man, he hardly ate and slept, searching for the people that had killed Amy. He overworked his staff never wanting to ept any answers that weren''t favourable.

    "Boss, I think we are going about this wrongly," Viktor said one day, worry clear in his voice.

    "I am the leader and I decide what we do and how we do it," Edward replied and that was the end of that matter.

    All their trails always led to dead ends, it was like a ghost had kidnapped Amy and killed her. Edward refused to ept, but soon reality caught up with him. He had to ept the fact that the love of his life was no more and move on.

    He had an organization to run and couldn''t put it in jeopardy simply because he was grieving. Like his father had taught him, a man was allowed to be mad for a while, but after sometime, he had toe back to his senses.

    Although be was still in pain, Edward licked himself up and continued about his business. He was a Wu, the leader of one of the biggest international mafias known to man, the time for his senses toe back had finally arrived.

    One day, Edward was having dinner alone in one of his restaurants when the clicking of heels alerted him of someone''s presence. He looked up from his te and frowned when he saw that it was Alexa, stunning and deceitful as ever.

    She slid into the empty chair opposite his and ced her perfectly manicured fingers against her face.

    "You look awful Edward darling." She pointed out, a pout on her face.

    "I have had very long day. All I want is to finish my meal with some peace and quiet. Leave, Alexa."

    "You know that I care for you."

    Edward dropped his fork and knife and looked up at her, his face turning into a hard mask. She smiled and ran her hand over the table towards his.

    "Let me help you take away the pain," She purred.

    "Leave, Alexa."

    She did the opposite; she grabbed his hand and rubbed her finger tips over his knuckles. Edward was about to call a guard when something on her hand caught his eyes. He grabbed the hand she was using to caress him and studied the bracelet on her wrist. Edward''s demeanor switched from calm to angry in a second.

    "How did you know Amy''s dead?"

    "That''s a very stupid question, let go of my arm Edward." Fear was evident in her voice.

    "I will not ask again, how did you know Amy was dead?" He wasn''t ying around.

    "We are in the mafia Edward, news always gets to us early."

    Edward squeezed her hand. She yelled but he didn''t flinch.

    "Yes, we are. Except you were there when it happened."

    "What? That''s nonsense!" Alexa screamed.

    "You killed the only thing that mattered in my life. Now, I will take away everything that matters in yours."

    "Stop this nonsense Edward, you''re making a big mistake," She spat as they dragged her away.

    "You should have left when I told you to."

    Edward nodded towards his men and they came to take her away. He had warned and warned several times now, he was done, the Yangs were going to pay. He sat back in his chair and finished his dinner; this revenge called for stealth and subtlety if he was going to get everyone.

    *********

    "You called to see me boss?"

    Edward turned his heard slightly toward the direction of the person that had spoken and away from the scene beneath him. Viktor stood with his arms folded in front of him. The suit he wore made him look at least ten years stronger and very intimidating; it was his looks that made him have as much influence amongst the mafia soldiers as he did.

    He gave the man a once over, looked back at the woman he had been watching from the window then turned his full gaze back on Viktor.

    "I''m setting up two teams," Edward revealed as he moved back to his chair behind his office table.

    Viktor said nothing, just nodded, as he waited for his boss to rify his meaning of "setting up two teams."

    Spread out on Edward''s table before him was an A2 sized printout of a map indicating the states and cities in the region of China. On one part of the bottom left of the map, Edward had traced a line across what appeared to be a representation of a river.

    Using red ink, he had highlighted the river from its beginning to where it split into tributaries in another state ording to the map. He ran his hand across it as if trying to smoothen creases that were not there and ran his eyes over the line for what would be the hundredth time that day. He stared at the paper for a while before he finally turned it to face his chief security officer.

    Viktor nced down at the spread then looked back at his boss. He fought the urge to raise his brows in question, but Edward wasn''t been clear on what he wanted and Viktor was eager to get going.

    But he understood he had to be patient. Since the boss lost his lover, he had been finding it very hard to concentrate for long periods. He seemed to nk out every now and then and spoke fewer words than were necessary.

    Edward had always been quick tempered and impatient with slow people, but since the incident, he had been sparking more often than none. The entire house felt the loss of dear Amy, because the secret to their boss''s cool demeanour had been taken away.

 Chapter 427 War

    <h4>Chapter 427 War</h4>

    "The river starts here," Edward finally began what would soon be a lengthy conversation.

    His index fingernded on the beginning of the line he had drawn himself. "It runs across this terrain, through the Gu hi forest¡ª" as he spoke, Edward''s fingers moved along with thendmarks until it reached the point at which the river branches off. "¡ªand it ends here."

    Viktor nodded once. Edward still hadn''t answered the question that was on his mind.

    "The river is called Jan xi by the natives and it is one of the longest rivers here in this city."

    By reason of the three years he''d spent taking a geography course in high school, Viktor knew precisely what Edward was going on about and he was beginning to realise why they were discussing the river Jan xi at all.

    "It was at this point¡ª" Edward''s finger moved back down to somewhere close to the beginning of the red line, "¡ªAmy was shot and fell into the tides."

    ording to his research, the river tides were known to be high by that time of the year and so he believed that the turbulence had washed Amy''s body somewhere along the course of the river. It was this Edward exined to Viktor.

    "Now, I know it''s been a while and anything could have happened by now, but I need Amy''s body found," he revealed calmly. "I want every nook and cranny and whatever side this river has to be searched until Amy''s found.

    Go into the surrounding viges, dig the sand beneath the river if you have to; Amy must be found!"

    Viktor nodded his understanding. He had been expecting this. After their initial weeks of searching that had turned up nothing, he hadn''t believed his boss would let the missing body go just like that and since he found out the group behind the issue, Edward had been spending a lot of time staring at nothing while he ruminated in his head. Viktor had definitely been expecting something like this.

    "Now, thest time we looked, there was no direction, no path to our search. We are going to do it differently this time," Edward cautioned.

    "Is that why we are setting up two teams?"

    "No. I''ll get to that part soon. It''s only one of those two teams that will be involved in the search."

    The guard nodded firmly.

    "I want the team to split into groups so they cover a wide search area. If I cannot have my woman back alive, I must bury her body."

    "Yes sir, I understand."

    There was a short pause before he spoke again, "And I must avenge her too."

    Edward rose from his chair and went back to the window. The woman with the ginger red hair he''d been watching before was still there, but now she had been joined by someone else¡ª a man, in a navy blue suit.

    Edward watched as the man took her palm in his before pulling her into an embrace. He blinked at them then looked away once again as memories of when he''d held someone with that same colour of hair flooded his thoughts.

    Like a man who was embarrassed to be caught disying any form of weakness, Edward fought back the tears that threatened to spill over.

    "I must avenge her," he repeated and Viktor nodded again.

    "The Yangs are responsible for the loss," Edward stated matter-of-factly. He moved back to his position in the chair and drew it closer to the table until his elbows rested on its surface.

    "I know this for a fact and I''m not going to let them get away with it."

    "Going after the Yangs will be the equivalent of starting the next world war, sir. Do you want that?"

    The look Edward shot the man he''d hired personally answered any questions Viktor had and cleared every form of doubt as well.

    If the boss wanted to swallow a grenade then he, Viktor and the other soldiers would make sure they took their own portions as well.

    "Amy is worth every drop of blood that will be she''d during this battle and more." He stared long and hard at Viktor, "I need your best men working on this.

    It''s going to be chaos in the underworld by the time I unleash my wrath on those people."

    Viktor nodded. He feared for what his boss was about to do, but once Edward Wu set his mind to something, there was no stopping him.

    Going after another mafia family was breaking the most important rule in the underworld, especially if that family was affiliated with yours in some kind of way.

    The Wus and the Yangs had been identified as friends for a long time amongst both rivals and other allies.

    If word got out that there was a war between the two then it could mean something terrible for everyone, innocent or not.

    "The Yangs are a very powerful gang, sir. We used to need their help in the past."

    "Used to," Edward hammered emphatically. "Now, they''ve crossed sides. They''re now after me." Edward paused.

    He looked taken aback as something dawned on him. His eyes shone as though a veil had been lifted from his face and he cursed, "Goddammit! How did I not see this before?"

    "See what sir?"

    Edward growled and stood up from his chair abruptly. He turned back to the window, banged his first against the wall that framed the ss hollow and cursed again.

    "Goddammit Viktor! It''s been the Yangs all along. All the failed missions, the hits, my parents. It''s been Jinn fucking Yang and his squad of backstabbers."

    For the first time since he entered the office and probably his enter life, Viktor appeared shocked by something mafia rted.

    Usually, before you entered the field, you were taught to expect everything. Nothing was news amongst mafia bosses because life wasn''t predictable.

    There were no absolutes, no certainties but Viktor had let himself believe that the Yangs and Wus had established a friendship that could not be breached.

 Chapter 428 [Bonus chapter]Not eating

    <h4>Chapter 428 [Bonus chapter]Not eating</h4>

    "How can you be sure without any hard evidence?" It wasn''t that he was doubtful of his bosses usations, but Viktor wanted to be sure they were going against the right enemy.

    Edward turned around to hit his bodyguard with that re that usually threatened the most strong willed people to silence.

    "My missing dead fianc¨¦ is enough evidence Viktor. Jinn Yang has been ying me for a fool all along; sent that oaf of a daughter to distract me. That was no deal for our benefit, there''s always been a hidden agenda."

    Viktor ruminated on this information for a while before speaking, "I see that sir. But why rope your parents into the mix? If the beef was with them, he would have stopped after their death, but he didn''t which means the beef is with you so why kill your parents at all?"

    "Use your head Viktor; he''s trying to take away everything I love. Everything I value."

    "But why?"

    "Does it matter?" the reply was sharp and conveyed bitterness. Edward squeezed his fists in both anger and sadness as a intense feeling of loss overshadowed him. "He''s already seeded."

    Ufortable silence fell over the room at those words. Viktor let out a deep sigh as he allowed himself mourn the losses with his boss. He had nothing to say and even if he did, the moment did not call for words. So, he just allowed the silence to reign.

    "But he''ll pay," Edward whispered to no one in particr. "He''ll pay with his life and I swear it."

    "Yes, sir. When do we begin?"

    Edward Wu turned away from the window for the final time that day and looked straight into the eye of his most trusted man and said clearly, "Right now."

    ***

    "I don''t know what the problem is, he won''t eat no matter what I give to him."

    Edward sighed as the words sank in. He rubbed his fingers around his left temple in an attempt to stop the oing headache. There was just so much to think and worry about and each new day came with a new set of things. If he said he weren''t physically and mentally exhausted, Edward would be lying.

    "Is he there?"

    "Yes."

    "May I speak with him?"

    There was no reply, only silence as thedy on the phone transferred the device to the person in question. Through the speaker, a brief shuffling sound was heard as the new speaker fumbled with the phone until it was at afortable enough position for him to speak.

    "Good evening, brother "

    "Gu Zhou," Edward greeted. He called his name so tenderly it conveyed the worry he felt for the boy. "How are you my boy?"

    "I am fine."

    "Are you sure? Your aunt Chynna says you''re not eating."

    There was silence on the other end. Gu Zhou was either smarting over Chynna telling on him or he was thinking of how best to answer a man he now saw as his father figure.

    "I don''t have the appetite to, sometimes and other times, I''m just not hungry," he finally settled for.

    Edward sighed again. "Why don''t you have the appetite?"

    "I miss Amy," Gu Zhou could no longer hide what was bothering him. Tears clogged his throat and for a minute he couldn''t speak. "I want to see her brother. Where is she?"

    The tears that threatened to spill from Gu Zhou''s eyes were not alien to Edward. He had to pause for a minute before replying so as not to give anything away.

    "She''s not around for now my boy." He told the same lie everyone had been telling Gu since Amy''s demise.

    Edward hated himself for having to lie to the little boy. He was no baby, almost a man himself now, but even the oldest of people could break down in the lieu of the death of a loved one and Edward did not want to crush the boy''s spirit. He would reveal the truth eventually, but he wanted to have Amy''s body first.

    Immediately the incident had urred, Edward had sent reinforcements to Florence to bring the boy back. He''d had the half-mind to leave him with Yizet since less harm was likely toe to him there. But, Edward hadn''t beenfortable with having him so far away.

    The need to protect him had cloaked his senses so strongly, it was almost maddening not having him close. Plus, the holidays were soon to be over and the boy would need to return to school; so, Edward had had. O choice but to bring him back to China.

    Initially, he had wanted the boy toe back to live with him but his friends had raised solid arguments.

    "You''re unstable Edward, it won''t be healthy for him to be around you," had been Jun Mo''s argument and the others had agreed.

    "And if we want to keep the truth for him, he can''t be in your house. He''d find out somehow."

    With the number of men that had trooped in and out of his house because of meetings he''d organised in search of Amy, Edward had had to agree with Henry in that vein. The boy was no durd; if he were around anybody from the mafia who knew what was going on, he''d have figured something was up with Amy.

    Even then, Edward knew the boy had his suspicions, but nothing had been confirmed to him yet so he wasn''t panicking.

    After much deliberation on what should be done about the boy''s habitat, a unanimous decision was reached and it was concluded that Gu Zhou would be staying with Chynna. Other than Amy and perhaps Edward, there was no one better equipped with the wherewithal to take care of the teenager than Chynna.

    And she was ever so willing to be of help. All Edward did was call everyday and visit from time to time. Although he kept the visits at a minimum; he still wasn''t mentally stable and did not want to break down before the boy for any reason.

    Chynna had been taking care of him for weeks and gave back daily report on how things were. Recently, she had called with numerousints about Gu Zhou''s eating habits.

    He''d been getting real anxioustely and asking about Amy a lot. Initially, they had made it seem like she was away on an important business rted trip, but weeks had gone by since then and that story didn''t hold water anymore.

 Chapter 429 Funeral

    <h4>Chapter 429 Funeral</h4>

    There was no business trip that went on for that long. The boy knew something was up and he wanted to understand what and why they were keeping it from him. But no one had the heart to tell him the truth.

    "Where did she go to? And for how long will she be there?" Gu Zhou asked in a voice that showed how much he missed his elder sister.

    "Don''t they have phones there, why hasn''t she called me?"

    All the questions wereing so fast and hard, Edward had to tell the boy to calm down.

    "Breathe Gu, just breathe. Amy will...Amy will call you when she can."

    Even he was choked by the lie and had to take the phone away from his mouth for a moment.

    "What I need you to do now is eat and get your strength. Amy would want you to eat."

    Edward heard Gu sigh and read that as a positive sign. "Okay. I''ll go eat now."

    "Thank you Gu. Give the phone back to Chynna."

    "Okay."

    "I will call youter to check on you."

    "Thank you."

    Another shuffling ensued as Gu Zhou returned the phone to its owner.

    Edward heard Chynna whisper something to the boy before saying a soft hello into the speaker.

    "He should eat now."

    "Yeah, I told him to get his te of food from the kitchen."

    There was a pause on both ends as the involved parties searched for how to say what was on both their minds.

    "Edward," Chynna called out concernedly.

    Edward sighed before telling her, "I''m trying to recover her body."

    "Jun Mo said so. You''ve tried before haven''t you? What''s changed now."

    "Well nothing except the approach. I drew up a n that should make things much easier."

    In her house, wrapped warmly in a nket on her window seat, Chynna nodded softly. "How''s that going?"

    "Well so far, there''s nothing yet and everyone we''ve asked seem oblivious. A few confirmed the gunshot, but no floating body has been seen by anyone."

    Chynna blew out a long breath. "Don''t exhaust yourself Ed. If they don''t see her, we should just do a memorial service in her name."

    After Amy had died, no one had talked about a burial for a long time especially since her body hadn''t been found.

    A part of them, though no one would openly admit it, had been hoping she would return to the surface somehow, that he had survived the gunshot.

    But they had waited weeks for that miracle to ur and it hadn''t. Chynna had immediately suggested the memorial service so they could all begin the process of moving on and getting used to the idea that their dear friend was gone.

    Edward had refused to conduct a burial ceremony without a body and his word had been gospel.

    The rest of the crew had backed off and let him take lead on the situation. But if his most recent n on recovering Amy''s body didn''t work, Chynna decided that she would have to out her foot down and demand a service.

    "We all need to ept the fact that she''s gone and move on, Edward. We can''t stop our lives forever; Amy wouldn''t want that."

    Edward ran a hand through his hair and down his face. He let out a sound that was halfway between a growl and a sigh.

    "It''s going to be okay Edward, I assure you. May not seem like that now, but in the end, it will be."

    And that was the problem. It was going to be okay in the end, but Edward didn''t want to be okay without his Amy.

    It was a different type of hurt when you allowed yourself love for the first time and then the person is taken away from you the moment you are about to live as one.

    Edward had been touched in a ce where wounds never heal and he didn''t know how to be okay without the reason for his happiness.

    "Give me a week Chynna. If she isn''t found by then, I''ll let you n the funeral."

    "Okay."

    "I have to go now. We''ll talkter. Take care of yourself."

    "You too Edward."

    When he dropped the phone after a soft goodbye whispered, Edward stood up from where he was seated on the love seat in his room.

    He moved into the bathroom and started the shower so that the cold water ran off for a while before it became hot, just the way he liked it.

    While he waited for the temperature to adjust to his preference, Edward went into his closet to prepare what he would wear for the day.

    Just as he stepped out with a pair of dark blue denims and a button down shirt, a soft knock came on his door.

    "Who''s there?" Edward asked as hey the outfit on his bed. A female voice called out a reply and he moved to the door to answer it. It was Greta, his housemaid.

    She stood in front of Edward''s door with a tray of hot jasmine tea and steamed buns stuffed with shredded meat.

    The scent of the dish wafted into his nose without an invitation and Edward''s stomach grumbled for the first time in days.

    He too was guilty of the same crime he had just admonished Gu Zhou formitting.

    It wasn''t that he didn''t want to eat; ever since he''d started strategizing on the best way to take down the Yangs, Edward had been having difficulty concentrating on anything else.

    Everywhere he went, he was always nning, thinking, calcting. His mind couldn''t stay focused on a task without drifting back to Jinn Yang.

    Greta understood what was happening with her boss. She didn''t know theplete story, or have an inkling as to what he nned with Viktor behind the closed door of his office, but she knew he hadn''t lost his appetite as the other staff liked to im.

    It was for this reason she always insisted on bringing food to him anytime he was around the house, which as of recent had been less than usual.

    He never actually finished the food, but he always returned the tray with less food than had been in it initially. Now, she was back again for the second time that day and it seemed to her that Edward would actually finish that tray.

 Chapter 430 The Pins

    <h4>Chapter 430 The Pins</h4>

    "I''ve made it just the way you like it," Greta informed him with a smile.

    Edward couldn''t help but smile back. He appreciated the way his maid had stepped in to fill in part of the void Amy had left in his life. "Thank you," he said while ridding her of the tray.

    The elderly woman nodded and made to turn away. "Oh!" She eximed as she remembered something she hadn''t yet mentioned.

    "A letter came in this morning for you. It was delivered to your office, but Viktor brought it in just now."

    Edward eyed the tray for the envelope which he found just beside the kettle. His eyes glimpsed a seal which meant that it hade from a higher authority.

    He looked up at Greta before she could catch his reaction. "Thank you, I''ll call you when I''m done." And just like that, she was dismissed.

    After he had closed and locked the door behind him, Edward moved with the tray to the bed.

    By then, the water should have been hot enough for his bath so he left the tray on his bedside cupboard before entering the bathroom.

    As he let the streams from the panel above run down his tough skin, Edward didn''t allow himself wonder where that letter hade from.

    It had been a while since he''d seen a letter like that, with that seal. In fact, it had been years.

    Edward recalled that he must have been in his early teenage years when hest saw a letter of that design, or a letter for that matter.

    The world had gone digital a long time ago and IV''s, unless it was to a wedding, were sent through the web as emails. Unless...

    ***FLASHBACK**

    The boy, no younger than sixteen walked with his face set into a frown. His hair was brushed back and matted down with gel giving him a look thatplemented the ironed tuxedo he was wearing.

    But the scowl on his face was probably undoing what his stylist had gone through great pains to achieve.

    The reason for the face was nothing other than a rich spoilt teenager being a rich spoilt teenager. His family had been invited for a midnight soiree by another.

    The heads of both families were best friends and it was imperative that they were in attendance.

    Of course, the boy was avoiding the party for so many reasons the first being that all his father''s friends would be there and that meant all their daughters will be too.

    He wasn''t pompous or anything, but the boy was frankly just tired of getting drooled over by a bunch of sissies. None of the girls met his taste, but nothing he said or did seemed to get that message across.

    When the invite hade in the mail two days ago, Edward had feigned an illness just to get out of going.

    It had worked the first day; then nai nai, his grandmother hade for a visit and proceeded to make one her many irritating concoctions that had left his tongue numb for hours.

    He''d dropped the act that morning after overhearing the old woman tell his mother that he would need another cup that morning.

    "Good morning," he''d greeted cheerily as he walked out of his room to the duo standing just outside his door. "I trust you had a nice sleep?"

    "Edward!" His mother had called out in disbelief and caution. "Why are you up? You''re not strong enough."

    Mrs. Wu had rushed to her son''s side like a nurse would to a dying patient. She''d been set to drag him by his shoulder and turn him right around and back into his room, but Edward had held down her hands to still her.

    "I''m fine ma ma. Nai nai''s herbal juice worked like magic yesterday. I feel so much stronger."

    The two women stared at him, one through concerned eyes and the other through widened ones. Edward avoided his grandmother''s gaze because he knew he''d been caught.

    "Are you sure?" His mother had asked. Her hand was still on his shoulders and Edward was beginning to be ufortable with the proximity and attention.

    "Oh, he''s fine alright," Nai nai had voiced, cutting out the reply he had been about to give. Her eyes had struck him with so much intensity he''d had to look away so as not to get burned by her gaze.

    Edward''s mother''s eyes had skirted back and forth between her mother-inw and son, confusion knitting her brows together.

    "What''s going on here?" She''d asked.

    "Nothing. Edward and I need to have a talk, that''s all."

    While nai nai told his mother that she wanted to see him privately in his room, Edward had been looking for a way to escape the meeting.

    His grandmother was obviously going to pry the truth out of him and he didn''t want her to know. But there was no getting out of it. His mother had excused them and nai nai had taken him back into his room to talk to him.

    In their house, the punishment for lying was a meeting with their father''s whip. Edward had been scared nai nai would report him after he''d confirmed to her that he''d indeed faked the illness.

    "Why?" She''d asked in a hushed tone.

    There was nothing else he could do at that point but to tell her why he''d faked an illness. As he spoke, a n that had initially sounded like something straight from a geniuses mind began to appear stupid to him.

    "So you don''t want to honour a friend''s invitation?"

    He had nodded meekly.

    "That is uneptable Edward. The Pin''s have been friends to the family for a long time. You owe them your presence at their asion. You were requested for personally by Mrs. Pin in fact."

    That hade as a surprise to him because he hadn''t been told by anyone before.

    "Well, it''s true," his grandmother had emphasised at the look of disbelief that shed across Edward''s face. "Come, I''ll show you the letter."

    And so, he''d been taken downstairs to the drawing room where the letter had been kept atop the centrepiece.

    True to his grandmother''s word, he''d seen where Mrs. Pin had etched his name in beautiful gold calligraphy and requested that he be there. She had a gift for him.

    "I didn''t even know she has a gift for you," nai nai had said after they''d both read through the letter. "Now go up to the bedroom, I''ve asked your mother to set out the suit you''ll be wearing."

    And that was how Edward had ended up in a tux one size too big and had his hair gelled back till the tip tickled the base of his neck. In his opinion, he looked stupid but every house staff that he''d passed told him he looked good. A mini version of his father. Wear suits more often, one had even dared to say.

    "No way!" Edward had replied emphatically before storming off.

    It was all thepliments and remarks that had gotten his face morphed into an irreversible frown.

    As he approached the door to the drawing room, he let out a deep breath. The entire family was gathered there waiting for his father toe down so they could leave for the party and Edward didn''t want anyone to question him.

    He straightened out the frown so that his lips were set in a straight line before he turned the handle of the door to let himself into the room.

    "Aww," Min Lee, his younger cousin cooed immediately he walked through the doors. "Don''t you look so good in a tux?"

    And the frown came right back...

 Chapter 431 The Pins(2)

    <h4>Chapter 431 The Pins(2)</h4>

    Edward turned off the shower as he shook away the memory of a day he''d ended up enjoying.

    The Pin''s hosted a mean party, he couldn''t deny and he''d looked forward to every single one after that.

    When his grandmother had showed him the letter, he''d run his hand over the seal again and again. Edward rememberedplimenting on how neat and bold it was.

    Painted in a bright maroon colour, the insignia had the Pin''s name boldly at the centre of the circle while around it was some sort of Chinesenguage, a pact that the family stood by.

    He hadn''t yet touched this letter, but Edward had seen it and it looked simr.

    He wrapped himself from the waist down in a towel that stopped just short of his ankles.

    While the upper part of his body was dry, the hairs on his legs were slick with the warm water and stuck to his legs like glue.

    Edward padded with his wet feet from the bathroom across his carpeted floor to his dressing table where he took up a brush and ran it multiple times through his hair.

    The food cooling on the bed didn''t bother him as much as the letter beside it, but Edward was taking his time getting to it.

    His phone rang from where he had left it on the bedside cupboard and Edward moved quickly to answer it. It was Viktor. He has called him before Greta knocked but there had been no reply.

    "I''m listening," he said into the receiver as soon as he clicked the green button.

    "Did you get the letter yet?" Viktor asked after he''d greeted his boss.

    "Yes. Who delivered it?"

    "I don''t know sir. It was there this morning on the front desk when the receptionist came to work," Viktor informed him.

    His sentences were a bit rushed and he was panting. Edward figured he had juste out of the gym. That exined why he hadn''t picked the call earlier.

    "How did it get there?"

    "No one knows. The night shift said no one came into the building at any point while they were around.

    And the recement shift was there before any of them left. The building was secure at all times."

    The more Viktor told him, the more convinced Edward became as to who had sent him the letter.

    "The letter, did ite with anything else?" Edward asked as he moved to the bed. He slid the tray closer to the edge and picked up the letter.

    "I was just getting to that part. How did you know?" Viktor was confused.

    Edward flipped open the letter and read the first line. "Because I''ve been receiving letters like this since I was a kid."

    There was a pause. "What?"

    "What did the lettere with?" but even as he asked, Edward already knew the answer.

    "A paperweight."

    Ah, so the stories were true. "Where''s it?"

    "I couldn''t trust the dispatch rider with it so I left it in your office."

    "Good. I''ll be there in thirty minutes."

    That meant Viktor was to be there in thirty minutes as well, or less.

    "Yes, sir."

    Edward cut the call and dropped the phone with the letter on the bed. The smile on his face defied the frown that had been there all those years ago at the mention of the party. He was raked by a feeling of nostalgia and longing as he remembered the past once again.

    *******

    The Pins were another crime family that operated in the Asian region. Tai Pin, the head of the family had gone to the same secondary academy as Edward''s father and the two had remained best friends even after graduating the institute.

    They had both started off in the mafia world together before getting married and starting their own families.

    Tai Pin had gotten married to a tall, slender woman of the fairest skin named Song. Edward remembered having a child''s crush on the woman, had even preferred her to her three haughty daughters: Mai, Su Ya and Chapa.

    The trio along with a few others from different families had been the bane of his teenage existence.

    Each time they all hung out at the Pin''s ce, Mai would always lead the gang into ying silly pranks on Edward and the other boys.

    Song had alwayse to their rescue and Edward had grown close to her as a result of the attention she always showered on them.

    Two years before his parents had died in that car crash, the Pins had moved from China to a small vige in Jordan. Tai Pin had gotten tired of living the mafia way especially then that his daughters had grown.

    He wanted them to marry respectable young men and to do that needed to separate them from the underworld. Because Edward''s father was the highest ranking boss and best friends to Tai, it had been easy for them to step down without any drama.

    The Wus had offered them protection and a warning had been sent out to the other families to let the Pins leave in peace.

    By reason of his position and the authority he held, Yama Wu''s wishes had been granted and the Pins had disappeared China without a trace.

    In the beginning, there had beenmunication between the two families until gradually it had dwindled and then finally stopped.

    Edward had spected that they had moved from the initial address they had given when they had written to them several times with no reply.

    "I believe it''s for the best that none of us know where they are," Yama had told his family after their third letter had been returned with no reply.

    After that, they had stopped writing to them at all and didn''t get any letters again until the death incident.

    Tai Pin had reached out to the family through a letter expressing his deepest condolences. They had watched a broadcast where the death had been announced and wanted to know the date of the burial so they could send some flowers.

    The letter hade with an address Edward could write to and he''d suspected that wasn''t where the Pins were living.

    He''d still written back anyway and had been tempted to ask, but after so many months not knowing there whereabouts, Edward figured it wasn''t as important then.

    It was his father that had brought the families together and now that he had died, Edward wasn''t sure what would hold them together again.

 Chapter 432 A friend

    <h4>Chapter 432 A friend</h4>

    On the day of his parent''s burial, the cemetery had received arge bouquet of lilies ¡ªthey had been his mother''s favourite¡ª and the card that came with it was signed by Tai Pin.

    That was thest time he had heard anything from the family until now. ording to the return address written on the letter, the family was now in Shanghai.

    ***

    Edward drove his car onto the parking spot that had been designated for him. With his title painted in bold white letters, the sight had a way of always putting a smile on his face.

    There was just so etching satisfying about having your own parking space.

    Yes, it had taken years of hard work to get to where he was now; there had been gains and there had been lots of losses, but now he was a respected name amongst other top bosses. And it wasn''t because of his father. Indeed, it was satisfying.

    When he was growing up, his family had been respected because of the position his father held, but after his parents death, all of that clout had gone away and he''d been just a other regr amongst them.

    Now, he had made a name for himself one that even the Pins, as far away as they were, recognised well enough to give him a personal invite to their party.

    Yes, one could argue that he had been attending their parties since day one but that, again, had been because of his father''s rtionship with the family.

    Now that the thread that had bound the families together had been cut, the Pins had nopulsion to invite any Wu to their parties. But they had.

    And this touched Edward deeply. He definitely had to honour the invitation.

    As he got out of his car, Edward allowed himself to wonder what the Pin sisters looked like now.

    He had been about neen when they moved away which meant their eldest Mai was about twenty followed Su seventeen and then little Chapa who was just barely twelve.

    Twelve yearster, they were all adults now with promising careers he believed. They were all of marriageable age and if any of them were indeed married, chances were it would be Su Ya.

    She had always been the prettiest of the trio and the most open to love. The others were either too stoic or too shy.

    Edward remembered sharing a kiss with her one time when they were both still naive. It had been clumsy and swift and Su had pped him right after with a stern warning.

    "Youe close to me again and I''ll use you of rape."

    Edward had never been confused about anything as he had been about the situation.

    Either he had misread signals or the kiss had been so disappointing it had made her angry because Edward remembered it being Su that made the first move.

    Well, he''d gotten the warning and had stayed far away from her. But she''d stille around after that to join forces with her sisters in tormenting him.

    Girls. He really wished Amy was alive then; he would have taken her along with him and introduced her as his bride.

    He could just imagine the shock on Mai''s face especially.

    "You, Edward Wu with a wife?" He imagined she would say. "What a wonder!"

    "And she''s pretty too," Su would add.

    "No, Su," Edward would have corrected, "She''s the most beautiful creature that ever walked in my life."

    A feeling of sadness washed over him and Edward had to pause at the entrance doors to get a hold of himself.

    Thest vige close to the end of the river had been searchedtest night and the verdict had been the same: no one had seen or heard about a floating dead body.

    Viktor had advised him to call of the search and for the second time, Edward had given up.

    He had decided he would call Chynna and ask her to begin nning the rites of her memorial service, but now that he''d been invited out of the state, he figured he would hold on a while.

    "Are you okay boss?" someone said to him and Edward looked up to find his security guard hovering around him.

    Two buff arms reached out to steady him as he tried to lean away from the support of the railings.

    "I''m fine. I''m fine," Edward assured the guy and shook his head to chase away the dizzy feeling.

    The guard nodded once and returned to his post leaving Edward to walk into the office building.

    He went straight for the elevator, waving once to the golden-haired receptionist whose name he forgot the next day after she''d reminded him.

    He didn''t feel guilty about it anyway because they had no direct rtionship since he had a secretary who did all of that for him. He pressed the button of his floor and rxed against the wall of the elevator as it moved up.

    Ding!

    After about six floors, the cab finally came to a stop and Edward got out of the box. He moved straight for his office where he found Viktor standing by his desk waiting for him.

    "Morning sir," the soldier greeted.

    "Good morning Viktor," Edward replied as he shrugged off his jacket before hanging it on the back of his chair.

    He looked at his desk and nodded toward a ck velvet square shaped object, "Is that the box?"

    Viktor nodded, but just as he was about to say something, Edward''s secretary walked in and he fell silent.

    "Good morning sir," Holly greeted shyly. She smiled at Edward then moved closer to his desk with his cup of coffee and schedule for the day. "Good to have you in today."

    Edward nodded. "Good to be in."

    "You have a lot of meetings to cover up for what you''ve missed," Holly warned as she turned the notepad to face him.

    "Cancel them."

    Holly paused. "But...sir..."

    "I have an important business to attend to in Shanghai and I leave in two days. Cancel anything I have from today till the end of the month. I''ll cover up when I get back," Edward informed her before handing over the book.

    Holly blew out a deep breath. "I''ve rescheduled a lot of these meetings time and time again sir. These people are going to be pissed."

    "Not as pissed as I''d be if you don''t cancel them." Edward''s brows shot up and he regarded his secretary with a cool gaze.

    The overworked secretary gulped at the look before arranging her sses on her face. "I''ll start making the calls now."

    "You better. Thanks for the coffee."

    "Your wee, sir."

    Her voice was significantly lower and she was less chirpy than she had been when she first walked into the room.

    Viktor felt for the clearly exhausted secretary as he watched her leave the office, the weight of the work she was about to do causing a slight hump on her back.

    If he were in a better position, he would have chided the boss for being so hard on the girl, but Viktor didn''t want a transfer of aggression so he held his tongue.

 Chapter 433 A friend (2)

    <h4>Chapter 433 A friend (2)</h4>

    As soon as the door closed behind Holly, Edward swung his attention back to his chief of security and raised his brows.

    "It''s a golden paperweight. I had Chen from the forensicsb swipe it for fingerprints, in case it''s the Yangs trying to y with us."

    Edward chuckled incredulously. "The Yangs do not y like this. Those cheap blokes won''t waste a dime if it won''t benefit them in any way."

    Apart from being criminally dangerous, the Yangs were pretty tight fisted when it came to the matter of finances.

    "This is nothing to worry about Viktor, it''s from a friend."

    "A friend? In Shanghai?"

    Edward nodded. "Before my father died, his best friend, a man named Tai Pin relocated from the country. He''s back in town and wants to see me."

    Viktor''s face held an expression that read doubt and Edward questioned it.

    "Well, sir, I don''t doubt the theory of your father''s friend wanting to see you..."

    Edward cut into his sentence, "It''s not a theory, I''ve been receiving such invites since I was a child."

    Viktor nodded. "Indeed. Well, you''re not the only one who received an invite."

    "Of course I''m not the only..."

    It was Viktor''s turn to cut in as he revealed who in particr he was referring to when he said his boss hadn''t been the only invitee.

    "What?" Edward had nearly shot out of his seat, but used his palms against the edge of his desk to hold himself back.

    "We have been keeping close contact with them just like you asked us to and we discovered he received an invite to the party, long before you and is already in Shanghai."

    "And?"

    "Well of course I didn''t read any meaning into it until today when you got an invite as well."

    Edward sighed as he thought on what his right hand man had just told him. Jinn Yang had been invited to the Pins party before him. Jinn Yang was already in Shanghai before him.

    This came as a shock to Edward because the Yangs and The Pins didn''t know each other. Well, they hadn''t known each other twelve years ago when the family was relocating.

    The only existing rtionship, Edward could ount for, between the family was mafia based and it wasn''t direct. If they had known each other at all it couldn''t have been on personal levels.

    Even his own father hadn''t been particrly close with the Yangs so when and how had the two families met?

    There were so many questions to ask concerning this recent development, but Edward wasn''t sure who he could ask. The only way to find out information was to hear directly from the horse''s mouth.

    Since he had set up a team to go after the Yangs, they had made hits on the family''s drug stash, warehouses and business outfits often setting up uninvolved small gangs as the culprits.

    So far, the family had no inkling as to who was really attacking them. They had innocent people locked up in their dungeon and the spies Edward had nted reported Jinn Yang ming the attacks on their recent growth amongst the mafia.

    "The little fishes want toe swim with the big fishes," Jinn had been quoted saying. "We''ve gained so much ground in the recent months and it doesn''t sit well with them."

    If not for the heavy repercussions he would face, Edward would have driven the entire kilometres to Jinn Yang''s house with a Glock and put three holes in the fucker''s chest.

    After news of Amy''s death had circted, the man had the audacity to send condolences. Edward had had the half mind to kill his daughter, Alexa, as penance for the death of his lover but Viktor had warned him sternly against making such a bold move.

    So, Edward had resorted to staging hits on his businesses. But now that he knew they were going to be in the same room, mingling amongst the same people, the temptation to end his life wasing on strong again.

    "I didn''t know the Pins and the Yangs were in rapport with each other," Edward revealed.

    He had taken a rxed stance with his back rested against the cushioned chair and his palms sped together beneath his chin. "How long ago did Jinn Yang leave for Shanghai."

    "About three days ago."

    "And why am I just knowing about this now?" Edward was resisting the urge to tell at his employee.

    He didn''t need word of what they were talking about going round thepany so he had to keep it cool.

    "I didn''t think it was relevant sir. He went under the guise of a vacation trip. It wasn''t until we saw the letter..."

    "Yeah, yeah, well you said that before. Goddammit Viktor!" Edward groaned and ran a hand through his hair.

    "I nned on leaving for Shanghai in two days, but that would make it five days Jinn Yang has been there before me. I don''t know what this dude is nning Viktor. You can''t keep springing up surprises such as this."

    "Yes, sir. I apologise sir."

    Edward nodded and waved his hand in dismissal. "Prepare the jet, we leave tomorrow."

    Viktor nodded and set to leave the office to do as he''d been instructed.

    "Send Holly in for me."

    His secretary was sure to be pissed when he informed her of the recent development, but Edward had decided he wouldpensate her somehow.

    He was no monster, he recognised the effort she was putting in just to ensure the smooth running of his business. He nned on rewarding her in due time.

    As he packed his journal and pens back into his briefcase, the door to his office opened and a scowling female with a tiny bun at the centre of her petite face walked into the room with the sluggish steps of someone who was considering quitting their job.

    Edward refrained from saying anything to her until she was right in front of his desk.

    "You called sir?"

    "Have you made the calls?" He knew the answer, but he asked anyway ¡ªjust to be annoying.

    Holly blew out a heavy breath, "No. Sir." She emphasized each word through gritted teeth.

 Chapter 434 The trip

    <h4>Chapter 434 The trip</h4>

    "Well then forget about it. Send out a public announcement: the office of Edward Wu will be closed for ess from now till next week."

    Holly did a double take. Her frown deepened as she asked, "What? Why?"

    "The boss and his secretary are leaving for Shanghai first thing tomorrow morning." He put thest pen in his briefcase and clicked the locks closed. "But of course thatst part isn''t for public ears."

    "Shanghai?" Was all Holly could manage. The boss was saying so many things and she was finding it hard to believe any of them.

    "What''s happening in Shanghai?" she finally asked after a beat or two had passed.

    "I have been invited for a party by an old friend and you are escorting me, along with Viktor of course." He added thest part for good measure.

    A lot of employees had been known to bulk whenever a trip with the boss was mentioned; Edward didn''t want Holly ¡ªor any of his other employees for that matter¡ª getting any ideas.

    The invitation hade with a spot for a plus one. Edward knew it was just the Pins hoping he would introduce them to someone, a girlfriend at least.

    If only she were still alive. Initially, he had nned on going alone, but after the recent development with the Yangs, he figured he might need someone he trusted to go along with him.

    When he''d made the decision to take his secretary along with him as well, Edward couldn''t decide but her help might be required ¡ªespecially when he and Viktor got side-tracked with other business.

    "Um, well, that sounds like fun sir." Holly couldn''t help the smile that enveloped her face.

    Edward nodded and stood up. "Shut down for today. I''ll send a driver to your apartment by seven tomorrow morning to bring you to the airport."

    Holly was too excited to speak. She gave a series of nods and stood aside as Edward made to leave the office.

    "Pack enough for a week''s stay."

    ***

    The first ce Edward drove to after he left his office was his tailor''s shop. Mr. Jeong had been his personal stylist since he was rich enough to afford one and had been fitting every single item the man wore.

    As Edward walked into the unfamiliar premises, the eyes of Mr. Jeong''s employees followed him wonderingly. They all knew of Edward Wu, how could they not?

    He was the biggest client their boss had and the only one that had never step feet in their workshop.

    He seemed to know where he was going as he walked straight for the door at the back of the ground floor.

    No one stopped him as he moved for the bosses office, knocking twice on the door before letting himself in.

    "Good afternoon Mr. Jeong."

    Carried away by the amendments he was making to the waistcoat the dummy before him was wearing, the bespoke tailor did not hear the door to his office open.

    It was not until Edward had spoken that he realised there was someone in the room with him.

    "Oh. Ah. What a surprise, Mr. Wu." Even Ned Jeong was astonished to his client in his office. "Please have a seat. Why didn''t you call me toe around?"

    As he questioned Edward''s presence in his office, Ned cleared the pieces of fabric and wasted materials from the chair that had been designated for visitors.

    "Don''t bother with that, I''m in a hurry," Edward said dismissing his offer of a seat. "I need a suit by this evening. One suitable for an old school party."

    "This evening you say?" it was clear from Ned''s expression that the timing was a big problem.

    "Yes. I know it''s nearly impossible, but this is an urgent matter."

    The tailor sighed. It wasn''t umon to get demands like this on the job. He was used to it from Edward particrly and was in fact prepared for it.

    "Let me get my tape and take a few measurements. You look like you''ve added some flesh since thest time you fitted for a suit."

    Edward smiled. "I''m a growing man Mr. Jeong."

    Nedughed as he drew his long off-white tape from around the neck of his male dummy. He took it to Edward and ced it against his body to begin taken the necessary measurements.

    He didn''t use any book to record the readings he was taking and Edward didn''t ask; he was used to it by now.

    Whenever Mr. Jeong handled his clothes, he never needed any book to remember the centimetres he had marked.

    "No sharper pencil than this my memory here," Ned would say, disputing themon adage.

    Edward had no reason to doubt the retentiveness of his tailor''s memory, as long as he got his clothes fitted perfectly.

    "Done!" Mr. Jeong rolled the tape and set in on his desk. "I''ll start work on it and have it delivered to your house before its lights out."

    "Thank you, Ned. I apologise for the rush." And, as he turned to leave, Edward decided he would express his apology when the bill arrived.

    ***

    By the time Edward arrived at his apartment, it was already getting veryte. He had just stopped by the mall to get a few things he would need for the trip.

    He hadn''t known shopping for gifts could be both exhausting and time consuming. He could have waited till he got to Shanghai of course, but Edward didn''t if he''d even have the time.

    The Pins were sure to demand his full attention and wouldn''t want him going anywhere without any of them in tow. He missed and didn''t miss their infamous clinginess.

    Greta came out of the house to wee him and when she saw the bags he was carting, quickly rushed to his side to help him.

    "Thank you Greta," he told her, releasing only one bag to her hold. "Have my clothes arrived yet?"

    "No, sir."

    Edward nodded but said nothing. He nced at his wrist watch then nodded again. There was still enough time before midnight when Ned had promised to deliver.

    "I''ll be taking a trip to Shanghai tomorrow and won''t be back for a week," Edward informed Greta as they walked to his room. "You are in charge, as always."

    Greta nodded with a small smile, "Of course, sir. Have a safe trip."

    "I will."

 Chapter 435 The trip(2)

    <h4>Chapter 435 The trip(2)</h4>

    When they got to the room, Edward took away the bag from his housemaid and shut the door behind him.

    He got out one of his midi-sized suitcases and set it on the bed to start packing clothes into it.

    He put as much as he thought he would need, ensuring to leave space for the suits when they arrived.

    After he was done, he called Viktor to inquire about their travel logistics.

    "I''ve informed the pilot sir, the jet would be ready for the trip tomorrow," the security guard assured him.

    While Edward was still on the phone with him, there was a small knock on the door and Greta''s voice announcing the arrival of his suits.

    With the phone still ced against his ear, Edward moved to the door to retrieve the package from her hand.

    He nodded his thanks and without first assessing the package, dropped it into the box along with the rest of his apparel.

    "...need to pick up my secretary first beforeing here," Edward informed Viktor so the driver was told.

    "Yes, sir."

    "Please do not bete."

    "We won''t."

    Edward dropped the phone immediately the call was cut and zipped the bag closed. He moved the bag to his door so that his bed was free for him to sleep. That night, Edward dreamed of Amy.

    **********

    The next morning, Edward was up before sunrise and set to leave. He called one of the doormen to have his suitcase taken downstairs while he went down to the dining to have breakfast.

    It was while he was eating that Viktor arrived with Holly in tow.

    "Good morning sir," the burly guard greeted with his signatory nod.

    "Good morning, sir," Holly''s contralto came afterward as she waltzed into the kitchen dressed no differently than when she was going to work.

    Edward eyed her pencil mouth stilettos as he took a sip of his tea, wondering if that was the best choice of footwear for a flight. He responded to her greeting then offered her a seat at his table.

    "Would you like anything to eat?"

    Holly shook her head, no, at the offer. "I''m good, thanks."

    Edward nodded, pleased because he was already done and didn''t think he could waste another minute waiting for her to finish eating. He wiped off his mouth with the napkin then stood up to leave.

    "Viktor!" He called out to the guard who had slinked into the kitchen at some point.

    "Sir!"

    "We are leaving."

    The trio, with Holly leading in her slow stylized walk, moved to the car against which the driver leaned on.

    Immediately he saw them, the man who''d been driving Edward for nothing more than a year moved to help his boss''s guard with the bag he was carrying.

    He nodded his greeting to Edward, the only person amongst the group he hadn''t yet seen.

    "How do you do today Stan?"

    "Very well, sir," the young driver answered as he shut the boot then ran around to open the car door.

    As soon as the door closed behind thest person, Stan got in and started the engine.

    "To the airport now?"

    He was inquiring if they had another stop and Viktor shook his head.

    The drive to the Beijing National Airport was short and free of road traffic. One minute they were driving out of Edward''spound and the next, Stan was offloading their trunks from the boot of the ck SUV.

    One of the airport workers met them at the entrance to the terminal to lead them to the hangar where Viktor had arranged for it to be stationed for their arrival.

    Their bags were taken from them while a caddy cane around to drive them to the take off point.

    Edward pulled out his phone from his pocket to check messages from his friends. He had informed them before going to bedst night that he would be travelling for the Pins party.

    They were all surprised about the invitation, but none of them were interested in tagging along even though he had offered.

    Now, each and everyone of them were wishing him a safe trip. Gu Zhou had sent a message through Chynna for Edward to bring him back something special and he made a mental note to ask one of the Pin girls to take him to a gift shop in Shanghai.

    "Have you ever been to Shanghai before?" Edward asked his secretary.

    Because his face was still buried in his phone and the car had been silent up until that point, Holly didn''t realised the question was being addressed to her until she felt her boss''s gaze on her.

    "Oh! Me?...err...no, I haven''t been to Shanghai before," she answered shyly.

    "Well you''re going to love it, it''s a beautiful city."

    The majorfort the private jet provided was privacy and as the caddy came to a stop in front of the Gulfstream purchased withpany money, Edward looked forward to embracing it.

    They boarded the aircraft and after the normal preliminaries were take care of and everything was set in motion, the jet took off for Shanghai.

    While Viktor sat in the cockpit with the pilot who was really just an undercover mafia agent, Edward enjoyed the privacy of his room by catching up on some sleep.

    He''d been on so many ne rides before it was beginning to feel like second nature to him. There was nothing new to learn or see especially on a trip as short as this. The only thing he felt he could do was sleep.

    ***

    The next time Edward opened his eyes to sound of the knock on his door, they were in Shanghai. After letting out a big yawn, he moved to answer the knock obviously expecting the person behind the door.

    "We are offloading the luggage for checkout sir," Viktor informed Edward, basically telling him in more respectful words to get his ass off the jet so they could get going.

    "Okay Viktor, I''ll meet you outside."

    After the door closed behind Edward, he moved into the bathroom to brush his teeth and his hair that had be ruffled from sleep.

    When he was done, he picked all the personal items with him and left the jet. As he descended the steps, he saw the pilot standing aside in a friendly conversation with Viktor while Holly stood by their bags.

    Edward noticed she had ditched her heels for morefortable shoes. He smiled to himself and called out to her as he reached thest step.

 Chapter 436 The red hair

    <h4>Chapter 436 The red hair</h4>

    "Good evening sir," Holly greeted returning her boss''s smile.

    "I trust you enjoyed the trip?"

    "It was short, but splendid, yes."

    By now, Viktor and the pilot had been alerted of Edward''s arrival and we''re now walking to join them.

    "I arranged for a car to meet us at the entrance," Viktor informed them for what had to be the hundredth time.

    Edward nodded then turned to the man beside his guard. "Han, thank you so much. It was a great flight."

    Han gave a two finger salute before turning to shake Viktor. He gave Holly a small wave before walking back onto the jet to return it to it''s hangar somewhere in the forests of Beijing.

    The trio walked into the airport terminal and after necessary processes went out to meet the driver at the entrance doors.

    "Did you make the hotel reservations?" Edward asked Holly as soon as they got into the car.

    "Yes, one executive suite and two single rooms."

    Holly gave the name of the hotel to the driver and soon they were off.

    ording to the letter, the Pins had already made reservations for him and his "plus one" in the hotel where the party was to happen, but since he had arrived two days earlier than expected, he''d made reservations elsewhere.

    His mission for now was to establish a rtionship between his arch nemesis and his father''s best friend. His vacation hadn''t started yet.

    "Do we have the name of the hotel Jinn is staying in yet?"

    Although Edward suspected it was the same one every guest was staying in, he had still asked Viktor to run a check. One could never be too sure.

    "Yes, It''s The Haven." Viktor would have given more information, but Holly the secretary was there and the information was confidential.

    Edward understood this and nodded. He asked no further questions until they reached their hotel and were checked into their rooms.

    They reconvened after each of them had showered and changed into fresh clothes for dinner in the hotel restaurant.

    Holly sat on a separate table allowing Viktor and Edward the privacy to talk without worrying about her listening in.

    "We have already set up surveince in and around the hotel. Since we started watching him, he has been out only once to y golf with who we have found out as Mr. Tai Pin."

    Edward nodded. "So you''ve seen him with Tai." He let this information sink in before asking, "Did you get details of their conversation?"

    "Sketchy, but from what we heard, they talked about nothing other than golf."

    Their table was somewhere between a window table and the table at the centre where Holly was seated.

    Edward had chosen the smaller restaurant for their meal because it was emptier and offered a view of the streets of Beijing.

    If he looked outside, he could see the headlights from cars moving along with the local pedestrians on the sidewalks.

    As Edward allowed himself to think of the next step he wanted to take, he caught a glimpse of someone that seemed very familiar and he froze.

    "It can''t be," he whispered, in shock, as the person disappeared from the view of the window.

    As if shocked by something, he stood from the chair and ran outside to chase after who he thought he''d seen.

    But as Edward moved amongst the pedestrians, he couldn''t find the person again.

    Still, he pushed forward until he caught another glimpse of red hair turning down an alley. Edward yelled and ran after the figure.

    The people on the sidewalks turned to give him odd looks as he chased down a person they were yet to see.

    The alley was encased between two long buildings one of which looked like a chain of supermarkets.

    The other was either a hotel or a lodge of apartments. Edward entered the darkened alley with the speed of someone who was being chased except he was the one chasing.

    He couldn''t see the end of the road, but at one point in both buildings, light shone from rooms inside the buildings and Edward figured there were doors into each building there.

    By now, he had lost sight of the figure and realised that she had entered one of the two doors.

    Edward stopped running. He leaned against the wall of the building to his right to catch his breath and think of what next to do.

    At that point, Edward had two options and he weighed them both. He could either enter the buildings and look for the person he was chasing or he could turn back...

    "Sir!"

    The call came from a closing distance and Edward didn''t pick out the voice of his bodyguard until the sound, frantic and full of worry, came the second time.

    "Sir!"

    As if being jerked to reality, Edward turned round to face Viktor who had nowe to stand beside him.

    The expression of concern that burrowed the skin on Viktor''s forehead did not match his stoic look, but he couldn''t help the reaction.

    His heart had jumped with shock when he''d seen his boss run out of the restaurant without a word to any of hispanions.

    Viktor had exchanged looks of surprise with Holly before running after Edward. He''d tried to look ahead to see what or who the man might have been chasing, but couldn''t figure it out.

    Then he''d turned down the alley and Viktor had be convinced that the boss had gone mad.

    "Are you alright?" He voiced the question he''d been asking himself throughout the chase.

    Edward nodded. "I...thought I...no, I saw her."

    Viktor''s responding nod was slow and indicated his confusion. "Who?"

    Instead of giving an answer, Edward shook his head as if trying to bring back the image of who he had seen.

    "I saw red hair, her red hair. I''m sure I did."

    Viktor wanted to tell the man that no one was doubting the authenticity of his vision, but Edward didn''t appear to be talking to him.

    His head was tilted to one side and his eyes searched the wet coal tar beneath them as if the truth swam there.

    Then he looked up from the ground to the sky and his mood seemed to transform.

 Chapter 437 Longing

    <h4>Chapter 437 Longing</h4>

    "It looks like it''s going to rain again; we should get inside."

    That was all he said to Viktor before heading out of the alley. At the entrance to the street, Edward looked back again hoping to get a glimpse of that red hair and resume his chase, but all he saw was ck and that kept him going forward, back to the hotel.

    In the hotel, Edward just picked up his phone from the table where he had left it with a te half full of food.

    He looked at the food, considered whether to carry it or not before deciding to just go to his room and sleep.

    "Are you okay, sir?" Holly stood to ask as Edward passed her the second time to leave the restaurant.

    "I''m fine," was his curt and half-hearted reply.

    Again, the two employees of Edward Wu exchanged looks between themselves as their boss walked out on them.

    Viktor raised his brows at Holly who just shrugged in return. Solemnly, and begrudgingly on the secretary''s part she hadn''t finished her food and she was enjoying the meal quite alright the two followed Edward''s footsteps and caught up with him just before he walked onto the elevator.

    The ride up was slow, quiet and jerky. Edward just leaned against the cold metal wall of the car, his eyes searching the ground for something,someone he couldn''t reach.

    His mind was clouded with so many thoughts that screamed confusion, hope and doubt. It couldn''t have been who he thought it was. It just couldn''t have been.

    There were so many women with that colour of hair, so many women and it could have just been a shadow of his imagination. Because he''d longed for her too much, his mind was beginning to y tricks on him.

    Edward was convinced that this was the exnation to what had happened that evening.

    He didn''t even want to consider what had gone through the minds of onlookers as he ran down the streets of a city he was a guest in.

    Only God knows what he might have looked like; a man in a tux and boots running with the wind ruffling his hair and the sole of his shoes pping the tarred curbs.

    His eyes had been wide open and Edward thought he might have cried at some point in the chase. Who even cried when they saw a ghost?

    Ding!

    The sound of the elevatoring to a stop on the floor of their room was all it took for Edward toe around from his thoughts.

    He looked at his employees who were trying their best not to show that they were watching him closely before walking out.

    His room was three doors down the left of the elevator and that was where he headed.

    "You guys can go to your rooms and stop casing me," Edward suddenly said ,ing to a stop.

    He turned around to look at Holly and Viktor who were teetering a few steps behind him. "I''m not in danger of running out of the building again, do not worry."

    There were no windows to see anyone passing the street and once Edward got into his room, he was just going to let his bed take him to thend of nothingness.

    "Yes, sir."

    "Goodnight."

    The two of them chorused at the same time before turning around to find their rooms which were on the opposite end of the hallway.

    ******

    ording to the n Viktor and Edward had fleshed out, that day was supposed to be for recon. They were going to tail Jinn Yang''s movements and find out what exactly he was up to.

    Ever since Edward found out he had gotten invited to the same party as he and had even arrived the venue way before the scheduled date for the arrival of guests, the mafia boss had be very suspicious.

    Of course, it could just be his paranoia. It was a distinct possibility that Jinn Yang was in Shanghai for pure leisurely reasons and staking him out would be nothing short of an invasion of privacy.

    But in this business, one could never be too careful.

    That morning, Edward woke up earlier than usual probably because he hadn''t slept much the night before.

    He had a long bath to clear his head and decked himself in casual clothes that spoke volumes about what exactly he''de to Shanghai to do.

    Edward decided that even though a part of him wasn''t rxed because of everything that was going on, he could still look like the vacationer he was.

    The upper half of his body was covered in a shirt he hadn''t worn since he ordered it from an online store two months ago and he paired the green cloth with brown khaki pants and a pair of converses.

    He took nothing with him except his phone and shades before walking out to meet his right-hand man in the reception.

    "I''m ready," Edward said to Viktor who was dressed no differently from him.

    "Yes, sir. The car we hired is here already."

    Edward nodded. "I asked Holly to fix a spa appointment for herself. That should keep her upied while we work."

    Viktor nodded. He had seen the secretary leave in a cab already.

    "Let''s pick her up on our way back." He was saying it out, just in case he forgot himself.

    Again, the bodyguard nodded before finally the two of them walked out to the Hyundai sedan waiting for them outside the hotel. Viktor went around to the driver''s seat while Edward got in the front.

    "ording to our trackers, Yang is currently at one of the biggest resorts in Shanghai," as he started the car, Viktor informed his boss.

    "Is he with Tai Pin?"

    Viktor shook his head. "He is with his wife, for now. There''s a possibility Tai Pin has requested for a meet there, because everything he had ordered has been on Pin''s tab."

    I I

 Chapter 438 Ghost

    <h4>Chapter 438 Ghost</h4>

    Edward hummed. He looked out his window at the slowly moving traffic as Viktor drove them to their stake out point.

    It was true there were men on ground already monitoring Jinn Yang and his family, but Edward preferred if his eyes were also on the duo as well.

    He was still thinking on what exactly had precipitated the bond between the two. How had they met? More importantly why had they met?

    ording to information getting to him, the Pins were still not a part of the game meanwhile Jinn on the other hand was a top man in themunity. Edward didn''t see a reason for them to be friends.

    The ride to the resort seemed to go on forever. Edward couldn''t stop ncing between his watch and the road.

    He kept tapping his knees with the hand he had ced on it while he tried to appear rxed in the seat.

    "Just a few minutes and we''d be there sir," Viktor assured his boss when he noticed the fidgeting.

    Edward turned to look at him and caught the bodyguard''s eyes on his hand. He stilled the tapping and looked back out the window.

    "I''m in no rush," he said with a small wave. "Go as slowly as you can. We are on vacation here as well."

    Viktor chuckled softly with a small shake of his head. He kept up ahead, driving as swiftly and cautiously as he could.

    He wanted to get them closer to Jinn Yang in time and at the same time, he was trying to make sure they obeyed the traffic rules and kept to the speed limit.

    The drive continued in wee silence and by the time they were only about a minute away from the resort, Edward began tapping again.

    He leaned forward in his seat and would have jumped out through the window by the time they were checking through security at the gate.

    "Wee to Han Bar and Resort," the guard said to them when he had confirmed that they were not with any harmful weapons.

    He handed over a tally card which Edward dragged with such impatience that the guard nearly retracted his final greeting.

    He gave Edward a look before raising the bars to let their car through.

    "They''re currently at the mall so we''d go there first."

    Edward concurred with the idea. They drove to the resort''s mall which was a one story building built with floor to ceiling windows fixed throughout the entire building.

    This was to the advantage of the two scouts; all they had to do was park the car at a strategic point and they could get an eagle''s eye view of what was happening.

    "We should get something to eat," Edward suggested when they had parked the car.

    Viktor scanned their surrounding. "Well, I see a food stand ahead of us. What would you like?"

    "Anything that would make this as interesting as possible."

    Viktor smiled with a nod. He took the debit card from Edward''s outstretched arms and left the car to buy them both food.

    While he waited alone in the car, Edward took out his shades and watched the vacationers move through the mall.

    Naturally, the poption that moved through the building was dominated by the female gender.

    Edward watched with slight interest as different women with different purposes walked in and out of stores looking for stuff to purchase.

    The few men he saw hanging around were mostly following the female savvy shoppers and probably paying for their goods too, by the frowns on their faces.

    Even as he sympathised with them, Edward couldn''t deny that he found it a little bit funny.

    So far, he hadn''t spotted the target, but they were certain that somewhere in the mall, the couple walked.

    Edward kept his eyes out for them searching faces closely so he could be able to pick out theirs. It was while he did this that he saw her...again.

    Edward''s spine straightened and his breath stopped as this time he saw her clearly. This time, in daylight and unrestricted by the plethora of garments she had worn yesterday to cover up herself, Edward could see without a doubt that it was her.

    The girl he''d searched for, for months; the one that had given him sleepless nights Kong before she''d be his lover; the one he''d refused to believe had died.

    So many different emotions came at him at the same time as he watched her.

    She stood behind a line of women who were checking out some stuff for babies and so all that Edward could clearly see was her face, still as beautiful as ever.

    Her rosy pink skin looked a little less rosy than usual, but it was still the same Amy he knew. Edward couldn''t believe it and even more shocking did her appearance be when the line gave way and behold: Amy''s bump.

    "What in the...?"

    His mouth hung open and his temper began to rise as he tried to think up an exnation for the pregnancy.

    "Is that why you stayed away then? Because you''re carrying another man''s child?" He asked no one in particr, but the seriousness thatced his tone would deceive one into thinking the person he was talking to could hear him.

    "Or did you leave because you wanted to go meet your secret lover and now you''re about to have his baby?"

    With each second he watched Amy through the windshield, Edward''s anger grew until he couldn''t bear it anymore.

    He threw open the car doors and stormed into the mall hoping that he could find the shop inside the busy space.

    It took a few tries, but Edward finally found the baby shop Amy had slipped into and before she could escape, he pushed her into a room in the store that ording to the sign on the door was meant to be storage.

    Amy struggled against the grip of her attacker who she hadn''t yet identified until he let go of her arm and revealed his face to her.

 Chapter 439 The truth

    <h4>Chapter 439 The truth</h4>

    "Edward?!" Her eyes went wide with shock, pleasure and fear all at once. She searched his face for any sign of artificiality before reaching out to touch him.

    "How are you...no, no why are you here?" The worry was clear in Amy''s voice.

    Edward wasn''t expecting that to be the first thing she asked so he shot back, "I could ask the same thing of you."

    Amy fell silent.

    Then he looked down and Edward remembered what had gotten him mad in the first ce.

    His hand inched slowly to the bump and when his fingers rested on the fabric of Amy''s shirt, Edward wasn''t expecting to feel the warmth and longing he did.

    "I saw you get shot Amy. I heard the shot." His voice was breaking. Edward was on the verge of tears. "And now monthster, I find you heavy..."

    "...with your baby." Amy opened her eyes which had fallen shut at the feel of her lover''s fingers.

    ***

    "No, Edward, we can''t be seen together!"

    But Edward wasn''t listening as he pulled Amy along with him to the car which he had asked Viktor to bring closer to the mall. Stake out was over; they were leaving.

    "Are you even listening to me?!" On a normal day, Amy''s voice was small but now it had be shrill with worry.

    Edward still didn''t reply. He pushed open the door of the mall and headed for the car which he spotteding toward the mall entrance.

    "Edward please you need to listen to me."

    Finally, Edward stopped and turned around to face Amy, "Get in the car," was all he said as he heard Viktor push the brake in front of them. He opened the car door and tilted his head to the side as if daring her to do something else.

    Amy gulped as she fell silent. Meekly, she got into the backseat of the car with Edward following directly behind her.

    "Drive Viktor."

    The bodyguard, naturally confused at the sight of the woman he and his team of soldiers had spent more than a few months searching meticulously ces ¡ªincluding some ridiculous ones that obviously couldn''t amodate a human being ¡ªfor was jerked back to reality by his boss''smand.

    He had zoned out for a second as he tried to analyse what exactly was going on. Where had shee from? How had she evene from where?

    In the picture of the map that he had stored in his head by virtue of continuous assessing, Shanghai was not one of the ces the river flowed through.

    In fact, it was so far away from it the river could flood twice and still not reach the city.

    Without another thought, the bodyguard started the car and sped out of the mall. He looked at Edward through the rear-view mirror and asked,

    "The hotel sir?"

    Edward shook his head. He turned to face Amy, "Where can we go to talk?"

    Amy looked like she was on the verge of tears, She looked up at Edward with pleading eyes, "If you drop me now, no one will have to find out that you''re around."

    Obviously, her responses had sparked a lot of questions and Edward was going to ask them all; first, he needed to find them a quiet ce to talk. So, he repeated the question again.

    Tired of fighting the man who was obviously adamant about seeing her, Amy sighed. "There''s a small park somewhere around that''s almost always empty, we could go there."

    Edward nodded and turned back to Viktor, "Follow her directions."

    Viktor nodded.

    Once again, Amy let out a sigh. "Take a left turn at the next junction."

    ***

    Viktor reverse parked the car under the lone tree in front of the corrugated fence that barricaded the park. He shut off the engine and rxed back in his seat.

    Without a word to her, Edward opened the car door and took Amy''s hands in his. As he got down from the vehicle, he tugged her along with him.

    Because he wasn''t paying attention to her and was a little impatient with his steps, Amy stumbled and would have fallen if not for Edward''s quick reaction.

    He caught her around the waist and pulled her close to him. His nose filled with the familiarity of her scent and Edward took a breath.

    His eyes watered as he remembered all he had gone through without her and how horrible the past months had been for him.

    "Why didn''t youe back to me?" he whispered in her ear. His voice broke at the end, but Edward wasn''t crying.

    He wasn''t going to let himself appear weak before the only woman he had ever truly loved that wasn''t family.

    "I searched for months for you Amy. I missed you so much."

    But Amy wasn''t as strong willed against the tears as Edward was, she let hers fall freely. Putting her arms around his neck, she pulled him closer to her body and buried her face in his neck.

    "I''m sorry. I''m so sorry. I promise I will exin everything to you," Amy told him and pulled away from him to search his face.

    Edward looked into her eyes and held gazes with her until he couldn''t hold himself back, he dove in for a kiss that started softly but soon became fevered with want.

    "We are outside," Amy brought them back to reality when Edward''s hands started sneaking around to her backside.

    Edward groaned, but nodded.

    "Let''s go into the park."

    The gate to the park was old so as Amy pushed it open, it creaked loudly and even more so when she closed it behind them.

    As they strolled to sit on the bench that stood behind the single fountain if the dried up ster structure could still be called that, no words were passed between them. Even after they had sat down, the both of them were quiet until Edward spoke up.

    "I want to know everything from the beginning. Don''t skip any detail at all."

    Amy gulped an nodded. She started the story from when she was kidnapped and then to the point at the river.

    "...the shot shocked us both because I was quite convinced they weren''t going to kill me. I had overhead a conversation earlier where they were..."

    "Who is they?" She had been using they to represent her abductors since the beginning of the story but a part of Edward was a hundred per cent certain that she knew who they were by now.

 Chapter 440 Miracle baby

    <h4>Chapter 440 Miracle baby</h4>

    But Amy didn''t look like she was ready to divulge that information just yet so she shook her head and said, "I''m getting there, hold on."

    Edward rolled his eyes but motioned for her to continue.

    "Well, earlier they had mentioned something about using me as bait so I wasn''t worried about being killed.

    And I wasn''t, obviously," she pointed at herself as she said that, "But the killer did push me into the water so that it seemed like I had been."

    She paused to catch her breath and to let the information she''d given so far sink in as well.

    "Someone was waiting in the river," she continued, "so as I fell, he just pulled me till we got to the surrounding woods where a car was waiting.

    I was injected with another tranquilliser before being tossed in the backseat. By the time I woke up, I was on a flight here."

    Edward let out a breath. With each sentence she made, he got angrier at the people that had taken her.

    "What happened when you reached here then?"

    "I was introduced to the man that is about to be your biggest problem, Tai Pin."

    From where Edward leaned forward with his hands rested on his knees, he sat up straight and looked at turned around to look at Amy fully.

    "What?" He wasn''t convinced he had heard clearly.

    Amy nodded, "The head of the whole organisation that organised my abduction is a man named Tai Pin and I have been living with him for the past eight months."

    Edward shook his head in disbelief, "No, no, that can''t be. That''s not right."

    "I know it''s hard to believe because he was best friends with your dad and..."

    He took in a sharp breath, "He told you?"

    "He told me a lot of things Edward which is why I can''t be here. I know too much, I am a liability. If he finds out I''m missing it could mean something really bad."

    "I''m not letting you go Amy, never."

    Amy pursed her lips as she fought back the tears.

    "Why didn''t you call me? Why didn''t you try to reach out to tell me you were alive?"

    "Because he threated to kill everyone I knew and loved if I tried to contact anyone here." By now Amy''s voice was thick from the tears that threatened to spill.

    "He knew every name, Gu Zhou, Chynna, he called all of you. There was nothing I could do but let you believe that I was dead."

    Edward digested this information silently. He said nothing to Amy as he thought about everything she had told him from the beginning.

    "You know Jinn Yang?" Maybe Amy could finally answer the question that he''d been asking himself for a while now: how did the Yang''s y into all of this?

    "Tai''s brother-inw?"

    Edward couldn''t recall a time where he had ever been shocked like the way the bomb Amy had just dropped shocked him.

    "What?"

    "Tai Pin''s wife, Song, is Jinn Yang''s sister."

    Edward shook his head; how did he not know that?

    "Well, estranged. They just recently startedmunicating again."

    "So Jinn and Tai are working together?"

    "To take your ce in the mafia."

    Edward hissed.

    **********

    "Have you made the call?"

    Viktor nodded and reced his phone back in his pocket. "They should be here in thirty minutes."

    Edward nodded.

    They were back at the hotel and had converged in Edward''s room. They had just called for reinforcements from the mafia foot soldiers because things were about to go down differently.

    When Edward hade to Shanghai, he had not expected a battle toe out of the trip. But after everything Amy had revealed to him, there was no way things were going to end without bloodshed.

    Tai Pin was nning on overthrowing Edward and his mafia family so he could be the leader.

    From what Any had to him, it seemed like something he had been nning for a really long time now and Edward was about to scatter everything.

    "When I heard you had been sent an invite for the party, I tried to warn you not toe." That was why she had asked why him was in Shanghai when they first saw at the mall. He wasn''t supposed to be there.

    "I wrote an anonymous letter exining some of these things, but it must not have gotten to you."

    She had taken a risk by doing so but Amy had figured that if she stopped Edward froming to Shanghai then Tai''s ns would be stalled for a while.

    "Even if I had gotten it, I still would havee," Edward cleared Amy on that, "No one ns to kill me and goes free."

    He would have attacked Tai before he even got the chance to execute his own ns.

    Then he had asked about the baby, the one thing he was most excited about at the moment.

    "I found out I was almost two months pregnant a week after I got here," Amy revealed. She''d had mixed feelings about the whole thing initially.

    Having a baby for the man she loved brought her great joy but she didn''t want to bring a child into the world as someone''s captive, which it would be if Tai''s ns were sessful.

    Edward''s eyes watered, "I can''t believe you were going to have my child and not let me know."

    Amy broke down in sobs at that point, "I didn''t want to keep the baby away from you either, but Tai made threats. I''d rather have you ignorant than dead, Edward."

    "Besides," she added, "Tai ns on using the baby as bait. His n B if he can''t kill you."

    It was that part that had vexed him the most.

    "The nerve of that guy," Edward said out to Viktor now. "A baby , my baby who isn''t even here yet is already being thrown into the mix of the underworld."

    When Viktor had heard the news which Edward had joyfully shared when he got back to the car, he''d been pleased for his boss. The baby wasing at a wrong time, but it was a wee surprise.

    "I can''t believe we are going to have a child together," Edward had told Amy on their way back to the mall.

    Their hands had been locked together and neither could look away from the other. "I just can''t believe this."

    Amy smiled.

 Chapter 441 The plan

    <h4>Chapter 441 The n</h4>

    Edward had been sceptical about taking her back to the mall, but she''d assured him it was best Tai didn''t know that he now knew what was happening.

    "It may make things even worse. Just let me go back Edward."

    "Haven''t they already figured out you have disappeared?"

    Amy had shaken her head, "I told them I was going to look for things for the baby. Besides, they would have called me by now if they were looking for me."

    She had gone to the mall with Jinn and Tai''s wives and when Edward asked, Amy knew nothing about Jinn himself being at the resort.

    "They don''t let the wives know what''s going on. But if I am not around when they want to leave, they''ll raise an rm."

    Edward nodded. It was at this point he finally relented and agreed to send her back to the mall.

    "I wille back for you Amy, that''s a promise."

    Those were Edward''sst words to Amy before he left her at the mall.

    He''d grabbed her around the waist which wasn''t so easy anymore given her condition, then he''d brought his lips down on hers.

    A seal. He wasn''t leaving Shanghai without her. The stake out had ended there. They knew enough to work with now, there was no need to keep tailing Jinn Yang.

    "Of all the people I expected that would betray me finally, Tai was the least."

    "You say it yourself boss," Viktor reminded him, "expect everything."

    "That guy was family, Viktor. My father defended him against the mafia when he left." Or imed to.

    Edward had figured by now that the move has just been a ruse to keep off the radar while he strategized.

    "Even blood can''t stop the thirst for power."

    ***

    Thirty minutes after the call was made, the hotel suite of Edward Wu filled up with more than twenty men, all built and trained by the Chinese mafia.

    They were soldiers under the order of Edward himself and somewhere in the tunnels of Shanghai, over fifty sat on standby just in case any man needed to be reced or the man power from the enemy was more than anticipated.

    This was just a glimpse of how resourceful Edward Wu was.

    "Good afternoon." Edward stood in front of the men and greeted.

    They were all gathered in his suit that would have contained themfortably if they weren''t built with toned muscles and testosterone.

    The room could barely fit them. There was an overflow into Edward''s room, but the door had been left open so the upants heard what the boss had to say.

    They was a baritone chorus of a reply to the greeting before Edward continued.

    "I''ve called you here because tomorrow night there will be a battle. A battle between the strongest forces of the mafia and I need your help."

    The men seated in the room hade directly from the training room of one of the toughest martial artists Edward had evere in contact with.

    He was the one that trained Viktor and the only one that Edward trusted to train all the men he sent out to the field.

    Legend had it that if anyone could survive the training of Master Shan Chi then they could survive any obstacles in the world.

    Right now, Edward needed that theory to be true even though he hadn''t particrly believed it.

    He didn''t expect the heat from Tai and Jinn''s menbined to be little so he was expecting everything.

    He would have asked for more men to flood the hotel, but they still had the element of surprise and Edward wanted to strike and take out half the army before they realised what was happening.

    He gave the details of the n he and Viktor hade up with within ten minutes of thinking of nothing else.

    The party was the next night and whatever Tai Pin had nned would definitely be executed then especially if it involved ckmailing

    Edward into giving up his position in the mafia. They would expect that Edward would want to return to Beijing afterward and would waste no time in capturing him.

    "Either of two things are going to happen," Edward had spected, "I''ll arrive the party and be taken in immediately or sometime during the party, I''ll be escorted out of the hall on the request of Tai Pin.

    Of course, they expect that I wouldply freely because I''m not supposed to know what''s happening."

    Viktor had nodded,pletely in agreement with his boss''s theory.

    "But option one is not feasible. If they take me before the party, I''ll feel blindsided. I need to see the everything that''s going on."

    So, Edward had decided that he would arrive the party with an entourage.

    "Of course Tai won''t be expecting that because I don''t need the security, right?"

    Viktor caught on quick. He gave Edward a reassuring nod.

    "So, I''ll walk into the building nked on all sides by a few chosen men so that no one''s able to get to me to request my presence somewhere else."

    Because if the memo got to him, Edward would bepelled to obey else it would be the first tip off that something wasn''t going well.

    "But won''t the presence of security be questioned. You said it yourself, they don''t expect you to have so much protection."

    "I''m currently seen as the most dangerous man in the underworld Viktor, they may not expect me to travel with so much security because it has never been my style.

    It won''t throw them off because they have an option two." ns changed easily whenever there were options and all Edward needed to do was figure out the ones Tai Pin had and make him pick the one that would leave his army open for attack from him.

    It was this Edward exined to the men in the room. Afterward, he went into phase two of the n.

    "There''s always a pattern to these parties. Once all the guests have arrived, the doors to the ballroom will be closed to any other person," Edward had exined to Viktor.

    "How do they know all the guests have arrived?"

    "They have a list."

    "What aboutters? How long will they leave the door open for them?"

    "It''s a mafia rule, you don''te to a gathering an hour after the stated opening time else you won''t be let in."

    "So you''re convinced everyone of the guest list is mafia then?"

 Chapter 442 The plan (2)

    <h4>Chapter 442 The n (2)</h4>

    "If Tai Pin wants to take over the highest ranking position in the underworld, then believe me, he has invited only the head of families to his party."

    You don''t execute a takeover without an audience.

    While he exined the details of the n to the men, Edward didn''t bother with the retelling of the history between him and the opponent.

    All the men needed to know was: there was an enemy that needed to be taken down and they were going to help Edward do it.

    "Is that clear?"

    "Yes, sir," they all chorused.

    The underground parking lot of the hotel building was almost always deserted because nobody likes to park their cars in a dark room with concrete pirs and zero security.

    The lighting in the vast expanse was dim and people could barely see anything which was exactly why it was a good ce to have weapons delivered to the team.

    The truck arrived that night filled to it''s teeth with armour, most of which wasn''t going to survive the bullet fest that would go down in a matter of hours.

    With stealth and intent, some of the soldiers from the room trooped down to arrange the weapons.

    Guns were cleaned and loaded with as much bullets as their magazines could carry. Bulletproof vests were checked for excesses and the des of swords were shone until reflections could be seen.

    None of the weapons were going to be moved from the back of the truck until they were needed.

    After proper inventory of them had been taken, the truck was sent to the parking lot of the hotel where the party would be taking ce.

    "ording to the invitation, Tai Pin expects me to check into the hotel anytime today."

    Viktor tapped the screen of the smart watch on his hand, "It''s almost seven o''clock."

    "I took ate flight." Edward shrugged.

    "Shall I call you a cab then?"

    Edward thought a while then shook his head. "Take me to the airport."

    His reasoning was that Tai Pin would be watching out for him from the airport.

    "Up until now, I was just a tourist in Shanghai," he announced to the room, "now, I am a target."

    ***

    Sneaking Edward into the airport to pretend like he''d juste off a flight was no small feat.

    Since Tai would definitely have ess to flight manifests, they had to take Edward to the private terminals where jetsnded.

    Tai wouldn''t expect Edward to flymercial anyway. It was a good thing they had been covering their tracks since day one. But they''d been focused on the wrong enemy all these while.

    Tai Pin was the one behind everything, Jinn was just a face the man needed to throw everyone off.

    Edward wondered what would happen to Alexa''s father after everything. He was sure Tai had promised him a seat at the head table, but everyone knew that it was never going to happen.

    "In the end," Edward told Viktor as they drove to the airport, "One of them would betray the other and that''s the part we need to watch out for."

    When they arrived the airport, they manoeuvred their way to the terminals and came out looking fresh off a ne. This time, Holly wasn''t with Edward, he had sent her back to Beijing.

    "There''s been a change of ns for the party, I''m sorry," was all he''d told her before shutting the door of the hired cab.

    Instead of himself, Viktor had chosen four men to act as escorts. Dressed in suits so blue they appeared ck, the four men stood around the mafia boss like shields.

    Viktor and two others were on ground watching out for Tai''s men ready to attack in case the party started too early.

    Dressed like a chauffeur, another one of Edward''s soldiers stood beside a navy green Toyota Hignder waiting for his passengers.

    When he saw them approaching, he ran around to get Edward''s suitcases which he put in the trunk. As soon as Edward and his entourage were seated inside, the man drove off.

    "Anything yet Viktor?"

    "No, but we have close eyes on your car."

    Edward wanted to know if they were being followed. It was a sure bet that they would be.

    The driver took them to The Haven where reservations had already been made for Edward a long time ago.

    When they walked into the reception, heads turned to watch the group. Edward sure did know how to make an entrance. The wall around him became tighter.

    Now that they were in enemy territory, they needed to be prepared for attack at any time. The men only ckened their cover around the boss when they got to the reception desk.

    "Edward Wu," was all he said before the blonde receptionist started tapping away at her desktop.

    "Mr. Wu, we''ve been expecting you."

    "Hope am not toote."

    "Not at all," thedy gave him a smile that under different circumstances would have looked less sinister. Edward couldn''t trust her, even if he wanted to.

    She handed the key over to him and asked him to have a nice stay. He didn''t expect to.

    "Okay Viktor, from here on out, I''m alone until I leave the room tomorrow."

    The team had anticipated the room being bugged. There was no way Tai Pin wouldn''t want to know who Edward wasmunicating with and what he was saying.

    There would be cameras too so he had to be careful not to show anything that would tip them off and he had to act as natural as possible so he didn''t lose the advantage of surprise.

    All five men boarded the elevator to the floor Edward''s room was on. The ride up was slow and quiet, but the moment the bells dinged announcing their arrival, every guard went up and everyone be on alert.

    With purposeful strides, they walked to the room the boss would be sleeping in for the night and left him once he entered the room. They would return to their base to rest and regroup tomorrow for the execution.

    While he arranged his suitcase into the closet, Edward took a visual sweep of the room. Immediately, he spotted a few points where microphones might have been ced and he smiled.

    The cameras were obviously hidden in the ceiling panels so he didn''t even bother with them.

 Chapter 443 Catching up

    <h4>Chapter 443 Catching up</h4>

    It was clear that the room had been touched. Edward was a man of precision and he had stayed in enough hotels to know the standards of room arrangements.

    There was just too much out of ce for him to even consider the room clean. He shook his head a little before shutting the doors of the closet.

    After he was done, he went into the bathroom. He expected that Tai would allow him his privacy and wouldn''t put any cameras in the bathroom, but Edward was sure that there were microphones.

    Their signals could easily be disrupted if he just turned on the water to its highest pressure, but he wasn''t even going to bother with that. If Tai Pin wanted to hear him shower, then he sure as hell would make it entertaining.

    He began to strip.

    "Sleep well, boys, you''re going to need it," Edward whispered before he stepped into the bath singing his own off-key version of a famous Chinese song.

    ***

    The next morning, well before Edward had risen, the doorbell to his room rang twice before the package was dropped.

    It remained as it was left by the hotel staff until an unexpected guest came around and roused him from sleep.

    Edward groaned as the doorbell sounded for the third time. He cursed out loud, momentarily forgetting the microphone before standing up from the bed. He did a little stretch before going to door and unlocking it.

    "Hey there, Eddie Woman."

    A st from the past and it was all Edward Wu could do not to keep from shouting.

    "Su Ya Pin, what a pleasant surprise." Edwardughed before pulling his childhood friend into a hug.

    He didn''t care if mater that night they might be pointing guns at each other''s face (he couldn''t rule out the possibility of Tai''s girls being in on the entire n), he was just so happy to see her again.

    "When I heard you had arrived, I just had toe take a sneak peek before the party."

    Edward shook his head, "Of course."

    "Plus, we bet money on it."

    Why wasn''t he surprised?

    "How much and for what?"

    "Five hundred each, for the first person to contact you."

    "Five hundred huh? When did you guys be so rich?"

    It was a joke and Su Yaughed out loud, just like she used to all those years ago.

    "I wasn''t going to stay long, but now that I''ve seen this generous breakfast father sent you, I can''t just leave."

    "No?"

    "You need help eating it."

    Edwardughed. "Fine, but you''re string the table."

    "Aye, aye, Woman."

    He shook his head. Eddie Woman was the nickname the girls had given him when they were children. It had started when everyone noticed how clingy Edward had be to Song.

    They used to tease him for always being around her and then one day out of nowhere someone, and Edward suspected it was Su Ya herself, had shouted Wu for Woman. Since then, he''d stopped being Edward Wu.

    "So, tell me Woman, how have you been?"

    Immediately she rolled the food cart into the room, Su started a conversation. She set the cart beside the small table that had been provided in the room for eating purposes.

    "Great, actually. But I should be asking you."

    Su smiled.

    "When did you guys get back in the country?" he was curious to know.

    "We never left," Su answered without looking at him, she was still setting the table.

    The shock was evident on his face. Su Ya looked up at him when he didn''t reply and smiled.

    "We stayed hidden in small towns on the outskirts, but we never left, at least not as a family."

    Edward watched her pick up the bottle of wine

    "Champagne for breakfast? Father wants to get you drunk before the party''s even begun."

    It was such an innocent, off-hand remark, but Edward couldn''t help but find truth in it.

    "Anyway," she continued returning the bottle to the cart, "Where was I again?"

    This was Su Ya, always distracted by the slightest things. Edward could swear she had the shortest memory span in the world, but nheless, she was his favourite.

    "You were saying you never left as a family?"

    "Yeah, Mai and I schooled abroad. Chapa naturally wanted to stay close to my parents so she took online courses."

    Edward listened intently. Su telling him this much could only mean one of two things: she didn''t know what her father was up to or this was deliberate. Edward would put his money on thetter.

    "So you returned after school?" Didn''t sound like the Su Ya he knew.

    "Never, I returned a year ago," she stopped and turned, "With a baby bump."

    Edward''s brows went up. He looked at Su''s fingers to check if he''d missed anything from his initial assessment of her.

    "A baby bump and no father," Su said clearing the air.

    "Oh. Well, that''s something. You must have gotten the old man upset."

    "Understatement of the year. Dad nearly blew off our roof with his curses."

    Edwardughed loudly. Su finally set thest tray on the table and motioned for him to take a seat which he did.

    "What did you have?"

    She scrunched her brows together, "A baby."

    Edward rolled his eyes, "Gender, Su."

    "Oh," she chuckled, "A beautiful baby girl. She looks like me."

    "Then I can imagine how beautiful she is."

    Su Ya blushed but quickly covered it by stuffing a shrimp inside her mouth. Edwardughed behind pursed lips then dug into the tray as well.

    "So, from what I hear, you''re not married either."

    Edward looked up. He shook his head and left it at that. He wasn''t married, yet.

    "Why? Can''t imagine a man like you not having his way with thedies."

    "Priorities, Su, I''m a busy man."

    Su Ya tsked. It was her turn to roll her eyes, "Not to busy to take them to bed though."

    Edward raised his brows.

    "I heard your scores, Chapa has ears in the national grapevine and your name''s a regr."

    "Well, a man has to loosen up somehow."

    "You''re a pig," Su Ya joked.

 Chapter 444 The hike

    <h4>Chapter 444 The hike</h4>

    Edward shrugged and took another bite of the bread roll he''d picked to eat.

    "How about your sisters? Any of them taken?"

    "Why? You want to add them to your body count too?"

    Edwardughed, "The only one of you that I might have been interested in has a baby that looks like her."

    Even though Su realised what Edward meant, she acted like she didn''t.

    "No way! You have a crush on Mai?" She threw her hands over her mouth, feigning shock.

    "Mai has a baby?"

    Su nodded emphatically.

    "Who would have thought," Edwardughed. "And the baby is still alive?" He couldn''t imagine stoic Su being able to woo a man long enough to give her a baby who''d actually survived a day with her.

    "What the hell?" Suughed, "Of course the babies are still alive."

    Edward nearly choked on his soup, "What?"

    "She has three kids," Su revealed, then shocked Edward further by adding, "Mai''s the only one of us that''s married."

    "Wow," was all he could say. How unpredictable like could be sometimes. Mai the bull (his own private nickname he''d given her) married? Wonders.

    "How about Chapa?" Edward decided he''d faint if he heard she had a baby as well. He hadn''t even been sure she had female organs when they were kids.

    Suughed, "Chapa''s always been a prude and she never leaves the house, unless we force her to. She''s going to marry my parents."

    Hmm.

    "What do you have nned for the day?"

    He didn''t have anything actually. Since he was being closely watched, he had to put a check on the ces he was found in before the party.

    "Why?"

    "Well, my sisters and I are going on a hiking trip."

    Edwardughed, "Ladies hiking before a party? You trying to fit into your dress or something? Would have imagined it would be the spa."

    "Very funny," Su tsked and tossed a shrimp at Edward. "We are all in good shape and besides, the spaes after."

    They looked at each other and smiled.

    The meal continued over casual conversation. Edward asked basic questions that might help him figure out whether this hiking trip he had agreed to go on was all a part of the n. He figured it was anyway.

    They wanted to get as much out from him as they could. But Tai Pin had sent the wrong set of the people.

    He would never reveal a thing to his daughters even if they were all innocent. They would find a way to mock him about it and make the rest of his living miserable.

    At half past eleven, after spending close to three hours in the room, Su Ya stood to leave.

    "Well, after that meal, I just might be pregnant again."

    Edwardughed, "For your own sake, I hope you''re not."

    He walked her to the door.

    "Thanks for stopping by, it was a pleasure."

    "You''re not rid of me just yet. I''ll pick you up by one."

    Edward nodded. He watched her enter the elevator before locking his door. He didn''t have any clothes that would be suitable for hiking, not to talk of his shoes. He ced a call to Viktor.

    "I''m going hiking with Tai Pin''s daughters."

    That was all he said before ending the call. If he had trained Viktor well enough, his guard would know exactly what to do.

    ***

    The clothes arrived a little before one along with tracking chips that Edward was supposed to clip to the women''s clothes. They were going to be followed too.

    He was just done dressing when the telephone rang, a call from the desk,

    "Hey Woman," it was Su Ya, "Get your female behind down here."

    He was about to say he didn''t have a female behind but she had already cut the call.

    Edward slipped his phone and wallet into his pocket before heading for the lobby. He was met with Su at the hotel doors and she led him to the jeep where Mai and her sister Chapa awaited.

    "Look what I dug up girls," Su shouted to her sister and they both looked up.

    Mai frowned, "So this is the treasure you said we had to pick up first."

    "Well treasure for me because you both owe me five hundred each."

    "No, we don''t. You clearly cheated. The party hasn''t started yet," Chapa spoke for the first time.

    "We didn''t specify when we had to talk to him. Pay up losers."

    Chapa rolled her eyes and Mai just frowned. She sized Edward up like she was disgusted by his presence and the man wondered how she ever nned on winning the bet if she couldn''t even be in the same space as him.

    "Still holding on to that grudge huh Mai?"

    The woman chuckled, "You can''t hold on to something that was never there. Get in the car Woman."

    Edwardughed, there was definitely still a grudge. Mai had had a crush on him and Edward had found out after Su Ya and him kissed.

    It was in fact because of her feelings Su had stringed him along. She had been taunting Mai who hadn''t looked at Edward the same since that day.

    But he couldn''t care less. He had always seen the eldest sister as a big bully who should have been a boy.

    While he got into the back seat with Chapa, Su Ya got behind the wheel and off they went to the trail.

    The first person Edward managed to put the chip on was Chapa since the was the closest to him and the least attracted to him. She just kept her gaze on the streets as Su drove past at such an rming speed.

    "Try not to get us killed Su," Mai warned her.

    "Sure!"

    Nothing else was said for the rest of the ride until Su brought the car to a stop at the edge of a trail.

    "We are here."

    She turned off the engine and they all trooped out of the car. They walked into the forest in a straight line led by Su.

    For the first few minutes of the walk, everywhere was silent until Mai asked about Edwards life in Beijing.

    "How does it feel being a top guy?"

    Edward shrugged, "Normal, I guess."

    "What a cocky reply."

    "I wasn''t trying to be."

    "That''s the point. You don''t have to try, the arrogance is natural."

    "Do you have a problem with me?"

    "I don''t know, do you?"

 Chapter 445 Truce

    <h4>Chapter 445 Truce</h4>

    "Oh my goodness would you two just quit it already," Chapa yelled. "God!"

    Su Yaughed, "Don''t know why you''re yelling Chaps, but I am quite liking this."

    Chapa rolled her eyes.

    Edward looked at Mai, "Let''s call a temporary truce?" He brought out his hand for a shake.

    Mai looked at his outstretched hand and her frown deepened. She turned around and with a huff walked away.

    "Is this how she nned on winning the bet? By walking up to me and starting an argument?"

    Suughed, "Maybe, except I lied. There was no bet," she brought out a gun and pointed it at Edward''s head, "I was supposed to be the first one to talk to you."

    Mai and Chapa also brought out their guns as they rounded him.

    Edward closed his eyes as he let out a curse. He hadn''t seen this oneing at all.

    "Told you girls I was the best bet. He fell for my trap like a hungry animal."

    The three of themughed in a way that made Edward cringe.

    "Tie him up Chapa."

    Chapa returned her gun to the holster in front and moved behind Edward. But that wasn''t even their first mistake.

    He threw his head back and hit her square on the forehead, but before any of the other two could react, he grabbed the gun from Chapa''s belt and shot at them.

    As he had expected, they both dodged and ran for cover firing return shots at him.

    "Three children huh?" Edward said from where he hid behind a tree. "You run fast for a mother of three, Mai."

    From where Su and Mai hid together, the older sister looked at her junior and hissed.

    "You told him I have three kids?"

    Su shrugged, "I wanted him to expect moms not trained assassins."

    "God you''re a fool sometimes."

    By now, Edward had called for back up. He fired two more shots before running for the Jeep.

    "He''s going for the car," Chapa yelled and all three of them made chase.

    As Edward ran, he fired shots behind him to throw them off. He took a different path from the one they had taken toe in to throw them off.

    His men had followed them to the trail, but had kept going when they noticed they weren''t the only ones following the jeep.

    Another sedan with Tai and Jinn''s men had followed them to the trail and after the first two shots were fired, they''d all jumped out of the car to chase after Edward. He was now receiving heavy fire from all ends.

    "You''re not supposed to kill him idiots," he heard Mai hiss at them and that motivated Edward to run even faster.

    Because he was focused on the path ahead, Edward didn''t see the maning from beside him until they were both rolling in the grass.

    Edward tried to shoot but the gun was knocked out of his grip. Angered by the hit, he grabbed the man by his neck and after much struggle, managed to snap it.

    Edward stood up from the ground and searched the guy for his weapons.

    He came up with an SMG just in time to fire at the other men that had caught up with him. The struggle had slowed him down.

    "Fuck!" he heard one yell as he got him in the knee.

    Edward turned around and kept running. He could see the end of the trail now and glimpsed one or two men running for him from that direction. His men. They were shooting at those chasing behind him.

    When he got to them, the three of them ran together to the car parked.

    "Go!" Viktor yelled to the man behind the wheel before taking off his mask. He turned to look at Edward, "Are you alright sir?"

    "I''m fine," Edward growled. "We were wrong about the attack."

    Viktor nodded, "We figured. On the way here, I asked my IT guy to run a check on the hotel bookings. No other mafia boss apart from you and Jinn Yang has checked into the hotel."

    Edward looked at Viktor.

    "The party was a decoy, a way to get you here."

    "Fuck!"

    ***

    "I managed to get one of the trackers on the youngest daughter. I''m hoping she''ll lead us right to where Tai and Jinn are."

    Viktor nodded, "I''ll phone the techie to give us the location of the tracker. In the meantime, we need to call for back up."

    "Then fucking call for back up."

    Edward was mad. He had miscalcted Tai Pin''s attacks and had underestimated his daughters.

    When Su had invited him on the hiking trip, he''d been suspicious. He had anticipated something to happen, but hadn''t imagined the girls taking part in it.

    They were all in on the n and he should have guessed that. But Su''s story had made him question their involvement. She always did have a way of deceiving people.

    Viktor first rang Taj, their techie who gave them the location of the tracker before ringing the other men.

    "Meet us at the Imperial Tower."

    *****

    Edward was given guns and Ker. He also kept a knife hidden in his trouser, it woulde to good useter.

    They were parked a few metres away from the Imperial Tower where Tai Pin was inside with his family and Jinn Yang and Amy.

    "My girlfriend''s in there," Edward said to his men, "I''ll need four of you to focus on just finding her and getting her to the safety of the airport." Han the pilot had been contacted and was already on his way with the jet.

    "We''ve already underestimated these men before, we won''t do it again. They''re waiting for us so we walk in with bullets. Shoot anything that doesn''t work for me."

    Edward turned around and walked to the gates. An exodus of over fifty men followed behind him and once they got near the gates of the building, they started firing bullets.

    Edward grabbed one man and yelled at him to take three others to go find Amy.

    "I''ll go find Tai Pin."

    ***

    "Edward''s here."

    Well into his sixties and greying all over, Tai Pin was a burly man of average height. He turned around from where he stood looking out the window at the bullet fest happening on his grounds.

    "I can see that," he told Jinn Yang. "Get Amy and bring her here. She''s our edge over him."

 Chapter 446 [Bonus chapter] The End

    <h4>Chapter 446 [Bonus chapter] The End</h4>

    "Are you sure that''s wise? Edward''s desperate now and when he''s that, he''s dangerous. We should escape now that we have the chance to."

    Tai scoffed as he listened to his brother-inw talk. "You know, when Song suggested we enlist you for help, I wasn''t too keen on the idea now, I remember why. You''re a weak man Jinn and it''s a wonder you''ve survived all these years in the mafia."

    Jinn Yang''s eyes grew wide as he watched Tai grab the gun on his table and point it at him.

    "You''re a liability Mr. Yang and you''ll be no use to me when I takeover."

    "So you still believe..."

    But Tai pressed the trigger, releasing the bullet that shut Jinn Yang up, forever.

    "Yes, I do."

    He crossed over Jinn''s stocky figure crumpled on the ground as he made his way out of the office.

    "Get the girl and meet me on the rooftop."

    Song who had been rushing to get her husband so they could escape paused.

    "Let''s just leave her Tai and go away. This fight is not ours anymore. Your men have fallen in numbers. I''ve already sent the girls away."

    Tai looked at his wife and cocked his head to the right, "I just killed your brother for suggesting the same thing to me," he raised the gun at her, "Do you want to suffer the same fate?"

    Song''s eyes grew wide with shock. She turned around and ran to the room where they had locked Amy in.

    Even blood can''t stop the thirst for power.

    ***

    "Sir!" Viktor yelled to Edward. "Tai Pin''s office is on the fifth floor."

    Edward nodded. He shot the two men heading for them before running into the elevator with Viktor following closely behind. He hit the button for the fifth floor.

    When they arrived, Edward went into stealth mode. The hallway was quiet and he didn''t want to alert Tai of their presence. They tip toed to the open door at the end of the hall where they were met with Jinn''s dead body.

    Edward stopped moving as he assessed the corpse, He had anticipated this. "Tai Pin isn''t here."

    Viktor stopped searching the room and turned to face his boss.

    "We''ll split up and find him. You go downstairs to the underground tunnels, I''ll go up."

    The guard nodded and left the room. He hadn''t yet gotten any feedback from the men he had sent to find Amy and that worried him a lot. He took to the stairs and climbed to the floors one after the other looking for the man that had caused him so much trouble all these years.

    Tai''s army of bloodthirsty men poured out from every corner in numbers and Edward killed them all. There was no sign of Tai himself on any of the floors until he got to the rooftop where he found Tai running for the chopper with a bound Amy struggling beside him.

    Edward shot into the air stopping them from running. Tai grabbed Amy and spin her around until she was facing Edward with his gun pointed at her head.

    Just then, Song ran up and Edward grabbed her, keeping her in the same position as Tai.

    "Edward my boy," Song whispered shakily, forcing a smile.

    "I''m not your boy anymore you treacherous leech."

    Song gulped.

    "Let Amy go and I won''t have to shoot your wife."

    "Oh that''s fine, I''ll shoot her myself."

    "Wha..."

    The shot prated her heart before she could get the words out. Just like her brother earlier, Song Pin fell to the ground in a heap of white as the blood spread from the hole in her chest.

    Edward staggered, shocked by Tai Pin''s outrageous behaviour. He looked up at the man with wide eyes.

    "Now, I''ll give you my options," Tai said. "You give me your position with the mafia or you say bye, bye to your baby and it''s mother."

    "All this just for a seat at the head of a table that will never ept you?"

    "Never ept me? You forget that I once was a member of that table."

    "Yeah, and you left."

    Tai Pinughed, "No, that''s where you get it wrong, I never left. I''ve been nning this takeover for a long time. When I killed your parents, I thought the swoop in would easy for but then someone had to go and fill his daddy''s shoes."

    Edward gasped. So that car ident hadn''t been an ident. He should have known.

    "My father was your best friend. How could you? He protected your family!"

    "Oh please, there are no friends in the mafia, didn''t anyone tell you?"

    Edward shook his head. He couldn''t believe this. But the shock was slowly turning to anger and he began to inch forward for Tai Pin.

    "Careful now," Tai warned him from moving any further as he pushed the gun closer to Amy''s temple.

    But Edward was only seeing red. Tai Pin had made him really angry now.

    "You took my parents. There''s no way I''m letting you take my wife and child Tai Pin."

    Without hesitation, Edward threw the knife he had taken out of his pants while Tai Pin had been distracted by his bber, the weapon hit the man square in his forehead and he fell to the ground. The gun rolled out of his hands and Edward ran for Amy. He pulled her into a hug and squeezed her to himself.

    "I''m so sorry Amy. I''m sorry all of this happened to you."

    Amy shook her head, "Shh, shh, it''s okay, Edward. It''s okay."

    Just then Viktor ran up and paused as he assessed the scene. He smiled at Edward and Amy who stood in each other''s arms. "Good to have you back ma''am."

    Amy nodded, returning his smile.

    "I''m never letting you out of my sight, ever, do you understand me?"

    "For now, I''ll contest the overprotectivenesster."

    Edward shook his head. She was still the same stubborn Amy.

    "So, your wife huh?" She had heard clearly when he''d called her his wife.

    Edward lifted her head so she could see clearly the love that burned in his eyes for her. "Marry me, red."

    "After all of this?" Amy chuckled, "Hell yeah!"

    And there, amidst the dead bodies and bodyguards, the two kissed.

    The End

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