Chapter 16 - Chapter 16

"Liang Yuxi, was your approach to me from the very beginning just for revenge against the Liang family?"

"Did Miss Su say that?" Her lips parted in a sweet smile. "If I said no, would you believe me?"

"No."

Her smile remained unchanged. "Then it is."

Everyone thought so. No one believed that a young lady, whose family fortune of hundreds of millions had been snatched, could not harbor hatred after being reduced to a dancer. No one believed she approached Gong Youqi without the intention of breaking him and his enemy's niece apart, while also finding a backer to continue her advance on Liang's Company to reclaim lost ground. No one believed she did all this merely for the thrill of a game. No one believed she truly didn't want to harm anyone.

Then let them continue to believe what they thought. She was a woman consumed by hatred, willing to be a despicable third party to sow discord between a loving couple for revenge. She was ruthless and heartless; everything was merely a tool and means on her path to vengeance.

She suddenly recalled that ancient people were often like this, too. To become an unforgettable character, if one couldn't be a good person to be remembered for ages, then one would be a villain to be infamous for eternity.

"Are you very happy?"

She snapped back to reality, seeing his gaze so stern it could kill. Her heart couldn't help but tremble. She reminded herself that the man before her was a gangster. If agitated, he might kill without batting an eye, directly grinding her up as fertilizer for flowers.

But why should she die? Even if she had deceived him, Su Yingran hadn't lost a single hair so far. Why should she be subjected to such interrogation?

The stubbornness in her bones circulated through her blood. She always seemed to surrender at the slightest threat, but when truly stubborn, she was impervious to both hard and soft tactics. Since he had already branded her with a crime she couldn't shed, it would be a real pity if she didn't fully indulge in her own imagination.

Bravely, she looked at him and said, "I am indeed seeking revenge. Since you know, there's nothing to hide. I just want to use you to retaliate against the current Liang family."

Gong Youqi clenched his fists, his tone still self-restrained. "So, you also deliberately wanted to break us apart."

"Of course," she said, almost beaming with spirit. "The Su family's marriage alliance with the Gong family makes them more powerful, and the Liang family, naturally, becomes harder to deal with, benefiting from their connections. Young Master Gong, you are truly amazing; my roundabout tactics were all seen through." She scoffed, never imagining she could use even the most far-fetched reasons when standing from an opposing viewpoint.

Indeed, people in the fog of their inner demons find it hard to distinguish right from wrong. She desperately wanted to call everyone idiots. If she wanted revenge, wouldn't finding the Liang family be more direct? Why would she sacrifice herself to provoke a difficult character like the Gong family? They thought she wanted to sabotage Su Yingran's marriage. Wouldn't the Su and Xue families' alliance make them even more powerful? If she were truly seeking revenge, she wouldn't bother provoking so many thankless people. One mistake, and not only would revenge fail, but her own life would be forfeit.

It was a pity that everyone was willing to twist their brains into pretzels and play games. She truly lamented whether humanity's intelligence would continue to regress to negative numbers if this continued.

Gong Youqi's gaze never left her. His dark eyes were as deep as if they had just emerged from an ice cellar. After she finished confessing, he curled his lips. "Since you've confessed without coercion, guess what your punishment will be?"

That feather instantly magnified in her mind, and Yu Xi's face instantly turned pale. She pinched her palm hard, afraid of trembling. She stood up abruptly, with an air of righteous heroism. "If you have the guts, give me a quick end! What kind of hero... gangster tortures a woman!"

"Is this your true nature?" A hint of amusement actually rose in his eyes. He also stood up and leaned down beside her. "Do you know why I let you deceive me and still wouldn't let you go?"

His breath drew closer and closer. His large hand moved up her waist, caressed her straight back, climbed onto her slender shoulder, and finally stopped on her fair neck. One hand encircled most of her neck. He compared it and continued, "Do you know that every time you provoked me, I wanted to tighten my grip like this, but why did I always hesitate?"

Her body still instinctively trembled. Even though she felt she had enough courage to accept any punishment from him, she instinctively feared him. She pushed him away forcefully, falling back onto the sofa herself, her face flushed as she retorted, "Gong Youqi, just say what you want! I'm just your mistress, but I haven't surrendered my life to you."

He raised an eyebrow. "You called me by my name for the first time."

"So what?" Since the pretense was broken, why bother with courtesy or titles?

His body lowered. "You can omit the surname and call me again, let me hear it."

Youqi... Bah! She absolutely refused to use such an ambiguous title. Just as she turned her face away in protest, he pulled her back again. His dark eyes were so deep they seemed to suck her in. "Call me Youqi."

"No." Short and sharp.

"Punishment." The moment his words fell, a heavy kiss descended. Her head was held. She raised her hands to resist, but at the sight of his warning dark eyes, her strength melted away, letting him kiss her intensely and lingeringly.

Gong Youqi watched her gradually slump onto the sofa, drained of all strength, a faint smile in his eyes. He picked her up in his arms and walked towards the bedroom.

Yu Xi grabbed his clothes, kicking her legs and shouting, "I don't want the feather! Put me down!"

He carried her onto the bed and pressed her down with his body. Seeing the tears glistening in her frightened eyes, his tone softened. "Call me Youqi."

She bit her lip, losing her fighting spirit, and softly called out, "Youqi."

Followed by a few sounds of tearing fabric, she was left naked, trapped beneath him.

As he undressed himself, she still felt disoriented. Weren't they just being interrogated? Wasn't his face filled with anger? Wasn't he going to punish her?

When their bodies were pressed tightly together, she whispered, seeking reassurance, "No feather, really?"

"You want it?" He was already cupping her face, slowly savoring it.

"No! Absolutely not! Never in my life!"

"From now on, when we're alone, if you call me Youqi, there will be no more feather punishment."

"Then..." What punishment would there be? She didn't believe he would let her off easy after a night of intimacy.

"Didn't you say you're just my mistress? Take half a month off, and I'll punish you in the way mistresses are punished."

Hearing the word "mistress," her heart, contradicting itself, felt a slight pang. She closed her eyes and asked, "You know I deceived you, so why are you still willing to continue?"

He paused, lifting his head slightly to look at her, his eyes bright. "Do you think I believe every single word?" Although he knew her identity, he wasn't certain of her motives. Everything needed to be confirmed by him personally. In fact, a vague sense of joy welled up in him, thinking that she wasn't just a common mistress from the start. His movements became a touch more gentle.

"Then Su Meiren... didn't she say anything to you?" Was she being too small-minded?

He avoided answering, slowly igniting the fire within her.

Yu Xi, however, didn't want to let it go. "You're treating Su Meiren unfairly like this!" She deserved to provoke him thoroughly!

Gong Youqi indeed stopped, a hint of annoyance in his dark eyes. "You really are good at thinking for others." He pulled up her sliding body, leaned over her chest, and took a cherry nipple into his mouth, whispering, "Punishment."

She gasped, but couldn't escape.

Her involuntary moans stimulated him; her struggles became his most powerful catalyst.

After a profuse sweat, he carried her to the bathroom to wash up. She heard her faint question, "Why won't you let me go?"

He gently held her in the bathtub, washing her. After a long while, he said, "There are two reasons."

He whispered into her ear, "First: I can't bear to part with your body." He gently nibbled on her earlobe, a gesture he particularly enjoyed.

"The other... what is it?" Electricity surged through her, making her tremble.

"The other, I want you to guess. When you guess it, I'll give you a gift." He finished washing, wrapped her in a bath towel, and smiled ambiguously while she was still lost in thought. "You can take your time thinking about it tomorrow. For now, let's deal with the second round of punishment..."

Chapter 36: Indirect Intentions, Equally Unpredictable

The consequence of the punishment was that Yu Xi woke up late the next afternoon.

Moving her sore body, she first found her phone and, sure enough, saw a missed call from Mr. Passerby A. She called him back, eagerly asking if there was any news of Yu Chen.

Lu Renjie sounded a bit apologetic. "I asked many friends there, and they all said Xiao Chen mysteriously stopped attending school half a month ago. His apartment roommate thought he went on another long trip."

Yu Chen was fond of backpacking, often traveling around various cities in Australia. Sometimes he would be gone for ten days to half a month, but he was always considerate and would call Aunt Xin every week to report he was safe.

Yu Xi grew more uneasy, her voice hoarse. "Senior, please ask your friends to continue helping me search. Thank them."

"Are you sick?" He detected something amiss.

"No, I'm just very worried about Xiao Chen." She didn't want to make him worry, so she quickly changed the subject. "I'll also find a way to get there as soon as possible."

"Found a way to leave?"

She whispered, "Even if there's no way, I have to go now. Xiao Chen is the most important person in my life." But she also knew it would be harder to escape now. Gong Youqi wouldn't let her go unless he thoroughly investigated everything, but no one believed she had no ulterior motives from the start.

Lu Renjie wanted to continue talking, but she heard the living room door open and quickly hung up after a hurried reply. She burrowed under the blanket, closing her eyes in exhaustion, feigning sleep, not wanting to speak to him.

Last night, trapped beneath him, she had laid all her cards on the table, from secretly swapping the signatory when they first met, to her alumni relationship with Mr. Passerby A, to how she helped Chu Chu escape and sneaked into the You Gang, and her identity, which had been hidden for years and was now a thing of the past.

Gong Youqi's actions never stopped, nor did he forget to sort through his many questions, but in the end, he only asked one.

"Why exactly do you want to leave?"

If she was worried that he would fire her when Yingran returned, there was no need to worry. He had already told her that as long as she was obedient, her tenure could be indefinitely long.

Yu Xi weakly opened her eyes and replied sarcastically, "Because I'm tired of you. I want a new bedmate."

His cold eyes flashed. He twisted her head. "Are you questioning my skills in bed?" A challenging smile played on his lips as he bent her legs and changed position, thrusting more fiercely.

She fainted twice in extreme pain and pleasure, wondering why the night was so long. Each time she woke up, in the dim yellow light, she saw that shameless smiling face that made her want to slap him several times, tirelessly asking the same question: "Why do you want to leave so badly?"

She bit her lip, turning her head and closing her eyes, finally saying weakly, "Alright, I'll tell you the truth. I resent your Su Yingran, is that enough? I don't want to be driven away by her condescending gaze as she proudly acts as the mistress. Can't I just leave on my own?"

Let him think she was narrow-minded, jealous, and arrogant. A mistress and a "other woman" couldn't always be equated. She was willing to be a mistress to a man without a family or a lover, but she refused to cling to him when his love already had a clear direction. That wasn't her style.

Her free and easy self only existed on the basis of not harming others. When Su Yingran returned, she had planned to withdraw later. It was just that back then, he still needed her cooperation for public appearances. Since she was taking his money, she could only fulfill her duties. But later, his gaze towards her became increasingly complex, and she had to consider whether it would be impossible to get out unscathed if she delayed further.

She had always felt that he and Su Yingran were a match made in heaven, so she created opportunities for them at the inauguration banquet. That's why she used Su Yingran's name to dispel his idea of staying overnight. That's why when she noticed a strange emotion mixed in his eyes towards her, she resolutely wanted to leave. That's why she made him confront Su Yingran this morning. The result was merely to make him let her go sooner out of guilt, so he could focus on Su Meiren.

She even avoided confronting whether she had fallen for him. She had a heart; it was impossible not to feel something for such a wealthy, handsome man to whom she had given her first time. But she preferred to be carefree and heartless, playing games with him. Why? Would anyone believe her if she said it was to bring him and Su Yingran together? And who could she tell about her later grievances?

His movements on her suddenly stopped. The night finally returned to quiet. She gasped heavily. A large hand suddenly caressed the corner of her eye, righted her head, and a low, hoarse voice, carrying his breath, brushed against her lips: "You cried."

"That's sweat," she whispered, still keeping her eyes closed, desperately trying to turn her head away from him.

"Excuses."

He brushed aside her disheveled hair, gently wiped away the tear that had slipped from the corner of her eye again, and kissed her tenderly, slowly sucking on her slightly swollen lips. After a while, he asked, "Do you like me?"

Her body trembled. She suddenly opened her eyes and retorted, "You're not worth it!"

His long fingers slid across her smooth, delicate face. "Reason?"

"Fickle!" Her confidence grew, and her voice rose a little.

He chuckled softly. "Do I have that much energy to deal with seven people in a day?"

Her red lips moved, then pouted, she stopped talking. He knew it was a metaphor. Moreover, given his performance tonight, it wasn't impossible for him to favor seven people in rotation.

"However, seven people combined can't match your attraction to me."

The tenderness in his dark eyes again set off alarm bells in her, reminding her not to get lost in it. She snorted coldly and said, "What about Su Meiren? How many beauties can she outshine?"

Gong Youqi looked at her, then paused before saying, "She's different."

"Of course she's different. She's the woman you fell in love with at first sight and waited two years for, unrivaled by anyone. So why aren't you spending every night embracing her? What do you want with a common woman like me?!"

His sensual lips slowly curved into an alluring arc. "Are you jealous?"

She secretly cursed herself for talking too much, then closed her eyes and sighed softly. "Do I have the right to be?"

He didn't answer. Suddenly, he thrust forward. Her moan was immediately swallowed by his lips. Their two perfectly matched bodies moved in unison. His ferocity made her plead for mercy, until he again reached the peak of ecstasy. He looked at the trembling woman who had again fallen into a dazed sleep beneath him and tenderly embraced her.

He murmured to himself, "Xiao Xi, I don't know either, when did you become the only one qualified to be compared to her."

The bed moved. She knew he was sitting behind her.

A strong arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her and the blanket into his embrace. Beneath the slipping thin blanket, her skin was as delicate as jade, dotted with scattered marks.

After the confession, Yu Xi suddenly felt a bit disheartened. She couldn't fathom this man's thoughts. Just when she thought she controlled the entire game, he suddenly stopped playing by the rules. Just when she thought she understood his inner thoughts, he acted unexpectedly again. She disliked overly intelligent men; they always made her feel the weakness of being a woman during every challenge.

"It seems I've found the most suitable punishment for you. This way, you'll have no strength to escape." He pulled the blanket over her, leaning into her ear and whispering.

She barely fluttered her long eyelashes, too tired to speak.

"Your aloof nature is truly a world apart from your usual facade. How did you manage to act so convincingly?" He continued to speak softly, pulling out an ointment from the bedside drawer. He applied it to his hand, then lifted a corner of the blanket, accurately finding her intimate area and slowly rubbing.

The cool ointment made her body tremble involuntarily. Her legs instinctively tightened, clamping him. Yu Xi clenched her eyes shut, a feeling of humiliation rising within her.

Before, wearing the mask of a love-struck mistress, she could let him play with her. She was merely a qualified actress. But now, it was as if he had torn off her disguise and seen her true self, yet still treated her with the old methods. His every tease made her feel ashamed.

She reached out and grabbed his arm, her voice hoarse. "Don't touch there!"

His hand didn't stop at all. He got more ointment and slipped back under the blanket, his other hand gripping her wrists to prevent resistance. "Although I also like this side of your personality, your obedience before was a good quality not to be lost."

Her breathing was erratic, seemingly enduring his touch with great effort, which displeased him. "You're unhappy when I touch you? From now on, I'll still explore every inch of you every night. Once I know your limits, what's the difference from before?"

"You disgust me," she said calmly. "Before, I didn't refuse because I thought you were just using a mistress as a shield to your true love. But you're so promiscuous and disloyal that I despise you."

"So you're saying you actually enjoyed being used by me as a mere tool for release?" What on earth was going on in her head? When he treated her better, she actually rejected it.

"At that time, we only had a contractual relationship. You paid, I delivered. There was no like or dislike; I just did my job diligently. Now you can clearly go public with Su Yingran, but you still refuse to let me go. That's being unfaithful and promiscuous."

He turned her body to face him. "Are you that noble?"

She replied coldly, "I'm not noble; I just have my own principles. Gong Youqi, if you want to be with Su Yingran, then make your relationship public soon and clear the obstacles. Do you think dragging this out only concerns the two of you? Won't others be hurt?" Thinking of the drunken Xue Han, her heart filled with sympathy.

"You're truly selfless," he said, lowering his forehead to hers, his eyes revealing no emotion. "I'm truly fortunate to have found such a principled mistress, who considers me from beginning to end. You deserve commendation. How much jewelry and money should I reward you with?"

A flicker of pain crossed Yu Xi's eyes. She said calmly, "I don't want money. I just want you to let me go."

"Money is finally abandoned in favor of freedom?" He seemed to smile. "Let you go, so you can find a more powerful backer, wear a flashy mask, and become someone else's mistress to make money or seek revenge?"

Her face paled, then flushed with anger and shame. "What I do in the future is my business. You have no right to interfere."

He leaned his face closer, his lips touching hers. He licked them, and his seductive voice said, "You-dream-on."

He pinned her down, his cold eyes warning: "My demands on you aren't high, just that you stay by my side obediently." A faint light flashed in his dark eyes as he added, "If you're willing, you can try to like me a little more. As for others, including Yingran's matters, I'll handle them myself. You don't need to worry."

Seeing her weak state, he felt a surge of pity. "You lie down for a bit. I'll go order some food."

Yu Xi watched him leave, then yelled furiously and weakly, "You bastard! Do you think I won't be condemned if I just stay here? You're selfish! You only think of yourself, don't you know how many people you'll hurt like this..."

His strong back disappeared behind the closed door. Gong Youqi stood by the living room window, his clenched fists revealing his inner turmoil. He knew he was a bastard, he was selfish, and he might hurt many people like this. But what could he do? He had a responsibility to Yingran and couldn't break his vow, but to let her go—he slowly opened his palm, watching the fresh blood seep from where his nails had dug into his flesh... she was the pain hidden in every drop of his blood, how could he possibly let go!

The following week felt like endless darkness. Aside from the bathroom, the bed became her place of residence for over twenty hours a day. She would only wake up to call Mr. Passerby A for news of Yu Chen, then fall back into continuous slumber.

She knew he couldn't bear to torment her weakened body, so she deliberately ate very little each day and rarely spoke to him. If he fed her too much, she would vomit. She even despised herself for resorting to self-torture to avoid his touch. She almost threatened him with suicide, but she still had to find her brother. Moreover, he saw through her trick within two days. A single phrase, "Should Xin Yue close down?" extinguished any extreme thoughts she had, leaving her only to struggle within the bounds of their unspoken boundaries.

Mr. Passerby A came to see her in his spare time. She heard the insistent knocking on the door and buried her head in the blanket, unwilling for him to see her in such a disheveled state. Over the phone, she told him she had moved, that everything was fine, and that she was just looking for an opportunity to leave.

Just as she was growing increasingly desperate, unable to even leave the house, heaven finally granted her an opportunity.

One day at noon, he was sitting on the sofa, supervising her. He threatened her to finish the food on the table by confiscating her phone. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. Gong Youqi frowned and opened it, seeing Xue Han's haggard face as he grabbed his collar and asked, "Have you seen Yingran?"

Gong Youqi was startled. "She's not at the company?" They had met last night. At that time, Su Yingran wanted to confess to Xue Han that night, but was hesitant about how to say it.

He also fell silent. Finally, he didn't even know how he came to say, "If you can't say it, just wait. He needs time too."

At that time, Su Yingran looked at him, her eyes slowly filling with resentment. She lowered her head and said, "Are you afraid that going public will affect the family's reputation, or do you simply not want us to face it publicly?"

"Of course not afraid, and not unwilling. I'm just afraid of making things difficult for you. I know the Xue family helped the Su family a great deal back then, and I'm worried you feel too much apology towards him."

Su Yingran felt a little relieved, then sighed. "What I'm most worried about is indeed Xue Han. He's always been very good to me and never forced me to marry. Although he's reserved and doesn't express it, he's actually liked me since childhood. I'm afraid he'll go crazy if I tell him myself."

Gong Youqi could only embrace the warmth that leaned into his arms, his dark eyes looking at the buildings outside the window as night fell. He suddenly wondered if they had been wrong from the very beginning. The love at first sight two years ago, but then they hadn't had the courage to go public. Two years later, both carried more emotional debts. Could their hearts still be as resolute and unwavering as before?

He admitted his guilt; he already had another woman in his heart. Yet, he also vaguely felt that Su Yingran might not be entirely without affection for Xue Han. However, he couldn't use such an excuse to push her towards Xue Han. He was the one who made the first mistake. If she didn't speak first, he had no right to abandon this relationship.

Even if he were to marry her in the end, it would be justifiable. He would treat her well and cherish her, even if he couldn't be sure if his love for her had now become mere responsibility. As for Yu Xi, he would rather bear everyone's condemnation than let her go.

Su Yingran did indeed personally question Yu Xi's motive for approaching him, but he had already placed a scale in his heart. The truth could no longer be swayed by others. He had actually thoroughly investigated Yu Xi's identity when she first fled to the orphanage. He didn't expose her because he still wanted to confirm one thing in his heart.

What kind of feelings did she truly have for him?

He scoffed at the theory that Yu Xi was using him for revenge. Was he that easy to manipulate? She claimed she wanted to sabotage his relationship with Su Yingran, yet why did he distinctly feel that the vixen was eager to see him and Su Yingran walk down the aisle together?

She always left him bewildered again just when he thought he had figured her out. Step by step, he approached her, wanting to peek into the other world hidden deep within her, but finally found no way back, hopelessly lost in her mysterious charm of wanting to refuse yet welcoming him.

Yu Xi saw Xue Han's anxious expression and came over, greeting him warmly. "Mr. Xue, don't worry. When did Miss Su go missing? Please tell me what happened slowly."

Gong Youqi glanced at her, as if he found it strange that she was finally speaking, then stepped aside to let Xue Han into the room.

Xue Han explained that Su Yingran had met him last night. After their talk, she felt awkward and insisted on going home alone without his escort. He eventually didn't insist either. Later that night, he called to see if she had returned, but Su Mother said no, and her phone was unreachable. Although he was worried, he thought she was in a bad mood and wanted to be alone, so he didn't contact her again.

At midnight, Su Mother called saying she still hadn't arrived home. He then became anxious, searched around, and was still hoping she would be at work on time in the morning, but the company said she hadn't shown up either. Xue Han searched everywhere he could, called Gong Youqi, and finally asked Lu Renjie for Yu Xi's address, coming with a hopeful thought.

Gong Youqi naturally knew what Su Yingran and Xue Han would discuss last night. Her not letting Xue Han escort her was certainly due to guilt. He also blamed himself for not thinking of picking her up. When he rushed to see Yu Xi at noon, he had left his phone at the company and hadn't brought it.

"Should we call the police?" Yu Xi looked at the two dumbfounded men, feeling how useless men truly were at critical moments.

"It hasn't been twenty-four hours yet," Xue Han said dully, his eyes full of anxiety.

Yu Xi looked at Gong Youqi, who understood and returned her gaze.

Translated, her gaze meant, "Aren't you a gangster? Surely you can find something out."

His gaze replied, "I know what to do."

As the three of them were collectively silently counting time, Gong Youqi's watch suddenly beeped like an alarm clock. His gaze paused, and he stood up and walked towards the bedroom. The watch contained a voice communication tool, a way for You Gang members to contact each other. Had something happened in the gang?

He answered. Gong Da's voice came through, as straightforward as ever: "Youqi, your love at first sight was kidnapped by a small organization last night for ransom, but she was unlucky enough to be discovered by our patrolling brothers. We worked all night and only managed to take down their hideout this morning."

Gong Youqi didn't bother with other details, asking the most important question: "How is she?"

"She won't die, just a bit shaken, a little dazed. Come pick her up." He kindly added, "We were afraid of disturbing your work this morning, so we only just remembered to tell you."

Gong Youqi cut the communication and walked out to Xue Han, saying, "We found Yingran. I'm going to pick her up now. I'll send her straight home later. Aunt Su must be very worried. You go inform her first."

He glanced at Yu Xi. "Don't run around." He then hurried out.

Xue Han took a moment to recover. "Really found her?" He was about to go after him.

Yu Xi held him back. "He's already gone. You won't catch up. You should wait at the Su family's place." An idea suddenly sparked in her mind. She turned and picked up a large slice of pizza from the table, replenishing her energy as she ate. "Take me with you."

On the way, Yu Xi looked at the man driving beside her, his face filled with melancholy and anxiety. She cautiously began, "Did she clarify things with you?"

Xue Han drove carefully, and after a while, he replied, "Just last night."

She nodded. No wonder Young Master Gong hadn't blamed him for not seeing Su Meiren off; it seemed he knew. She then carefully observed this reserved man, sighing softly. "Did you already know about her and Gong Youqi?"

"...Yes, I knew for a long time," he said with a bitter smile. "I knew over a year ago. Although we never discussed it, she would regularly collect information on Gong Youqi, and I accidentally discovered it."

Yu Xi sat quietly, not wanting to provoke him further... while driving, her own life also needed to be safe.

"I thought she was just unwilling to accept the arranged family marriage, and that if I were more considerate, I could win her over. But two years later, she still returned. That night, when I saw Gong Youqi and her looking at each other, I knew everything I had done was futile."

She understood the pain of a man seeing the woman he loved gaze deeply at another man. Hesitantly, she continued to ask, "Will you let go?"

He was silent.

She knew how cruel it was to ask him to let go, but since Su Yingran had already made it clear to him, waiting any longer would be in vain. She wasn't sure if he was the type to stubbornly cling, but for his sake, and for her own freedom, she felt it necessary to persuade him to be bold for once.

Adjusting her mindset, as the car was about to enter the Su family mansion, she softly said, "Xue Han, are you willing to take a gamble?"

The Su residence was livelier than ever today, almost comparable to Su Yingran's inauguration banquet. When Yu Xi and Xue Han entered, the hall was already filled with Su family relatives, all surrounding and comforting Mrs. Su.

Many gossiping relatives were ignored in her eyes. Yu Xi spotted Liang Qingshan in the crowd immediately. Thinking of this Su Meiren's cousin, who was also a long-term partner of Su's "Huan Tai" company, he naturally had to rush over at the first opportunity. She continued to scan discreetly. Upon seeing the bejeweled woman next to Mrs. Su, her blood suddenly surged.

That woman... the "stepmother" she had respectfully called many years ago, Liang Qingshan's mother, the current owner of Liang's Company. Her hands trembled, hidden behind her back, genuinely fearing she might impulsively rush forward and grab Mrs. Liang.

Mrs. Su saw Xue Han, her eyes lit up, and she rushed over, asking, "A Han, has Yingran really been found? Is she alright? Is she hurt?"

The group of relatives behind them swam over like a school of tadpoles following their frog mother. Yu Xi was immediately squeezed to the side. Her body stiffened as she watched that woman approach her. Liang Qingshan also paused slightly when he saw her, seemingly more excited, and walked towards his mother, as if to introduce her.

She suddenly felt a bit flustered, afraid her plan would be disrupted, yet her body seemed uncontrollable, unable to move. It turned out she was so fragile, still unable to let go of her deepest feelings all at once.

Her trembling hand was suddenly grasped by a warm large hand and pulled aside. A tall figure embraced her, moving through the chattering crowd, and stopped behind a pillar.

"Senior." She snapped back to reality, staring blankly at Lu Renjie's rarely serious face.

His charming eyes, however, showed concern. "Xiao Xi, you've lost a lot of weight."

She smiled faintly, then anxiously asked, "Any news on my brother?"

Lu Renjie shook his head, then thought for a moment and added, "A friend said he saw a Chinese boy with a backpack in a small town in the east of Australia. The description sounds very much like Xiao Chen. That was about three weeks ago."

Yu Xi's face grew even paler. "I must go to Australia to find him immediately!"

"Wait until next week when I can put my work aside and accompany you," he said, caressing her sunken cheek. "You're not doing well, are you?"

She lowered her head. "Just worried about Xiao Chen." In reality, she was just lacking nutrition and would recover after a couple of meals. Half of her usual weakness and moaning in bed was feigned, just to scare Gong Youqi and deter his nocturnal activities.

Lu Renjie lifted her chin, his tone firm. "I won't let you go back to him!"

Yu Xi was about to reply when she heard a servant hastily run in and say, "Miss is back!"

The tadpoles again surged towards the main entrance. Yu Xi saw Gong Youqi helping the frail Su Yingran through the door from afar. She was draped in his coat, her eyes showing lingering fatigue, clinging tightly to him. He, too, strongly wrapped his arm around her waist, supporting her.

Everyone still felt a bit awkward seeing them, but Mrs. Su was only concerned about her daughter's injuries. She was the first to rush forward and embraced Su Yingran, crying. Xue Han, standing nearby, clenched his fists, seemingly wanting to offer comfort, but stopped abruptly, his face showing a look of painful conflict.

Gong Youqi's gaze swept around, finally resting in her direction.

Yu Xi met his cold eyes with indifference, fearless. Her body tensed, embraced by Lu Renjie. She looked up, seeing Lu Renjie meet Gong Youqi's gaze with a challenging look.

Her heart suddenly warmed, and she softly called out, "Senior..."

He leaned down, instantly his eyes filled with tenderness. "Don't be afraid, I'm here."

She returned a playful smile. Their interaction immediately made Gong Youqi burn with anger. If it weren't for Su Yingran by his side, he would have long since walked over and separated them.

The hall was filled with the noisy sounds of insincere greetings and inquiries. Yu Xi watched as Su Yingran was surrounded like a queen being interviewed, relatives one after another showering her with concern.

She stared blankly, a bitter taste slowly seeping into her heart. She murmured, "I really envy her."

Lu Renjie held her tightly, whispering, "I will fill all the care and love missing from your heart." He glanced at the hall again. "Yingran is fine now. Let's go. You look like you just escaped from Africa. I'll take you to eat."

Yu Xi shook her head. "Not yet. I still have a scene to play."

He frowned, gently tapping her head. "What trick are you up to now?"

She glanced at Xue Han. "I don't know if it will work, but if he agrees to help me, I can make Gong Youqi agree to let me go in person."

The sentimental expressions of concern lasted for almost half an hour. Xue Han then told Mrs. Su, "Let everyone go home first. Yingran needs a good rest."

No one dared to object. The tadpoles dispersed, leaving only the Su mother and daughter, Young Master Gong, Xue Han, and the two of them. Mrs. Liang and Liang Qingshan, who had walked to the main entrance, suddenly turned back. Mrs. Liang looked in Yu Xi's direction, a hint of nervousness flashing across her face.

Mrs. Su profusely thanked Gong Youqi, then helped her daughter upstairs. "Everyone, you're not outsiders, please come up too."

Several people followed. Gong Youqi turned back and gave Yu Xi a deep look, then followed them into Su Yingran's boudoir.

Mrs. Su had her daughter lie down, originally wanting her to rest first, but Su Yingran seemed to have something to say. After a moment of quiet, Mrs. Su began to inquire about last night's events in detail.

Yu Xi didn't go into the room, standing in the second-floor corridor with Lu Renjie beside her. She watched Liang Qingshan and his mother comfort Su Yingran for a few moments, then they came out and walked towards her. She took a deep breath, trying hard to calm herself.

"Renjie, how's your father? We haven't seen each other in a long time," Mrs. Liang deliberately ignored Yu Xi at first and greeted Lu Renjie behind her.

Lu Renjie was very polite. "My father is doing well, and he often mentions you." He stood a short distance behind Yu Xi, appearing detached.

Mrs. Liang smiled and nodded, then finally looked at Yu Xi.

"Are you really Yuxi?" Mrs. Liang's soft voice was filled with disdain.

Yu Xi looked at her, saying nothing. That once enchanting woman had also been marked by time. Despite her perfect makeup, faint fine lines around her eyes revealed her age. She now seemed to possess everything—money, status, reputation—and in high society, she was probably considered a distinguished lady.

"Mom, she really is Yuxi! Let's have her move back as soon as possible, and Yu Chen," Liang Qingshan turned to Yu Xi again, "Where is Yu Chen?"

Yu Xi pressed her lips together tightly, worry returning to her eyes when she thought of her brother.

Mrs. Liang stared at Yu Xi for a while, her hand gripping the railing trembling slightly, but she asked seriously, "What evidence do you have to prove you're Yuxi? The orphanage clearly said they died of acute flu and couldn't be saved back then."

Yu Xi looked at her calmly, still not speaking.

"How did you know about the original Liang family twins? What is your identity?" Seeing Yu Xi's lack of response, Mrs. Liang herself gradually became flustered.

"Are you trying to impersonate Liang Yuxi? Where did you come from, woman? Why are you at the Su family's? Did you know I was coming today? Are you trying to snatch our Liang family's fortune? You're daydreaming! Aren't you afraid we'll sue you and send you to jail?!" Mrs. Liang became more and more agitated as she spoke, guilty, her voice almost sharp by the end.

Liang Qingshan quickly tried to appease her. "Mom, look again, she really is Yuxi."

"Shut up! Why are you siding with an outsider!"

Yu Xi remained silent, though in her mind, she had already considered several ways to respond: putting her hands on her hips and arguing with her, calling Uncle Liang to testify, coldly exposing their past schemes, or directly calling a lawyer for a DNA test. She thought of many things, but in the end, she suppressed them all.

She remembered what she had promised Aunt Xin, remembered being misunderstood as seeking revenge, and remembered that in these past twenty years, she had never truly thought of returning to Liang's Company. Perhaps she just wanted to see this woman with her own eyes again, to see what her "stepmother," whom she had ignorantly treated as her birth mother in childhood, would look like when her true colors were revealed.

Now that she had seen her, she felt strange inside. Although it confirmed her inner belief that this woman was truly worthless, she no longer had any desire to argue with her. It was as if, because the opponent was so subpar, she no longer even had the desire to compete.

Finally, she looked coldly at Mrs. Liang, her tone suddenly gaining a hint of authority. "Liang's Company, you'd better manage it well."

Mrs. Liang and Liang Qingshan both froze. She continued, "I have many ways to reclaim everything. But the inheritance that belongs to me and my brother, we give it up. It was taken from us twenty years ago, and we don't care to have it back now. There is only one condition: Liang's Company must not be ruined by you."

She looked at the dazed Mrs. Liang, took a few steps closer, her eyes cold. "Remember, I have things that can prove my identity. If you manage poorly, I can reclaim everything at any time."

Mrs. Liang involuntarily took a few steps back, unable to utter a word of rebuttal. She swayed and was supported by Liang Qingshan.

Yu Xi looked at the bewildered Liang Qingshan, her tone softening. "Manage Liang's Company well. I believe in you." She still didn't plan to let him know about his mother's disgraceful past. She glanced at Mrs. Liang, whose face had turned ashen, and said faintly, "She's tired. Take her home first."

Liang Qingshan was about to say something else, but she interrupted. "I'll contact you again."

Having dismissed the two, she turned to look at Mr. Passerby A, who had been standing silently behind her. She curled her lips into a smile. "Senior, are you satisfied with what I've done?"

Lu Renjie walked to her side, his charming eyes softening as he looked at her. "Really giving up the family fortune?"

Because Mrs. Liang was an old acquaintance of his father, he found it inconvenient to intervene, but that didn't mean he wouldn't act if she needed help. As long as she was being bullied, he wouldn't stand by. He just never expected Yu Xi to truly give up Liang's Company. Thinking that he had once misunderstood her, he felt both guilty and pained.

She smiled. "I don't like being a miser."

"It's hard on you," he said, patting her shoulder.

Yu Xi looked at Mrs. Liang, who had already walked out the door and gotten into a car, thoughtfully. "Actually, Yu Chen and I have been very happy all these years. We are both content with a life outside of the wealthy family." At least they lived freely, unlike Su Yingran, who had sacrificed her love for her family back then.

She felt a little sympathetic towards Su Yingran again, sighing softly. "Let's go inside and take a look." Her act was about to begin.

Su Yingran was leaning in Mrs. Su's arms, softly recounting last night's experience. Originally, Xue Han had picked her up. After confessing to him, she felt awkward and insisted he not escort her. She herself, feeling unwell, walked along the street. She gradually took a wrong turn and passed a dark alley when suddenly someone covered her mouth from behind. She then fainted from the anesthetic on the cloth.

The person who grabbed her was originally a small hooligan who brought her back to his organization to show respect to their boss. Another member recognized her as the female CEO of "Huan Tai." Gossip was everywhere; hooligans also read newspapers to pass the time. Recently, the business newspaper had ranked Shanghai's richest, and Su Yingran, as the only female CEO to make it into the top ten, was naturally featured with flattering photos.

So, a group of people grew greedy and planned to extort the Su family. Unfortunately, they were unlucky enough to be discovered by a You Gang informant who had been staking out the place. They were ambushed during the night, and luckily, she was also safely rescued. When she was brought back to the You Gang, she stated her name and identity. Gong Da naturally knew who she was. After some thought, he let her rest and only informed Gong Youqi the next day.

Everyone listened with bated breath. Gong Youqi secretly decided to deal with the remaining hooligans in that small organization later.

Mrs. Su wiped her tears, holding her daughter and saying, "You suffered." She couldn't help but glance at Xue Han, seemingly blaming him for letting her daughter walk alone last night.

Xue Han was also blaming himself, but his mind kept replaying what Yu Xi had told him earlier.

She wanted him to voluntarily give up on Su Yingran.

Yu Xi said, rather than Su Yingran and Mrs. Su bringing it up, it would be better for him to be the good guy and generously withdraw first. Rather than forcing Su Yingran into a difficult position, it would be better to make her feel lifelong regret this way. That way, at least Su Yingran would always remember him.

Yu Xi also said, perhaps this was a gamble, a gamble on whether Su Yingran had any affection for him in these two years. If she truly had none, at least there would be regret, and she wouldn't forget him; if she did, perhaps one day she would suddenly realize how true a heart she had missed and might be willing to come back to him. In fact, he had no hope for the second possibility, so the woman smiled alluringly.

Yu Xi also said that perhaps Su Yingran didn't realize her deepest thoughts, and at this point, she needed a little stimulus. And Yu Xi would be that stimulus, and it would also be her way of repaying him for the favor from last time.

Just now, when Gong Youqi brought Su Yingran in, he lost all confidence in winning her back. Perhaps Yu Xi's suggestion truly was the last option. At least, he hoped Yingran would always remember him.

He made a decision.

Su Yingran also planned to seize this opportunity to clarify her relationship with Gong Youqi. Firstly, she could now use this "suffering ploy" to make Mrs. Su less opposed and blaming of her. Secondly, since Gong Youqi had brought her back this time, Mrs. Su wouldn't make things too difficult for this benefactor.

The room was silent for a moment. Mrs. Su was the first to speak. "Yingran, I've always felt it's too tiring for a girl like you to run the company. It's better to settle your marriage with A Han sooner." After this incident, Mrs. Su was very uneasy about her daughter struggling alone outside. If the Xue and Su families married, at least the Su family's position in the business world would be more stable, and "Huan Tai" could legitimately be partially managed by Xue Han, so Su Yingran wouldn't have to work too hard as CEO.

The others were all stunned, then Su Yingran and Xue Han spoke simultaneously.

"Mom..."

"Auntie..."

Mrs. Su smiled. "Look, you two already have such good chemistry."

Su Yingran looked at Xue Han worriedly, unsure what he wanted to say. After she confessed to him last night, he was stunned for a long time, then actually smiled bitterly and said he had known this day would come. The desolation and pain in his eyes made her feel so guilty. Over the past two years, she had seen and remembered all his kindness towards her. If she hadn't encountered Gong Youqi, she might have quietly married him, but in the past two years, her heart had always been restless. She was unwilling to become a sacrifice for a family marriage; she also wanted to fight for beautiful, free love.

Xue Han met her gaze, and that look contained so many complex emotions that Su Yingran couldn't comprehend them all at once. She heard him say slowly and seriously, "Auntie, I'm sorry, I cannot marry Yingran."

Once spoken, the four people were all astonished.

Su Yingran stared at him blankly. Gong Youqi slightly frowned, confused. Mrs. Su swayed violently, slowly standing up, her trembling finger pointing at him. "A Han, you... what did you say?"

Xue Han, on the contrary, calmed down. "Auntie, I'm sorry, Yingran and I truly cannot get married."

"Why..." Mrs. Su's voice trembled.

Xue Han looked at Su Yingran, and said firmly, "I hope Yingran can be with the person she truly loves."

Mrs. Su was puzzled. "Isn't the person Yingran loves you?"

Su Yingran lowered her head and spoke, "Mom... the person I love is someone else." She looked up, at Gong Youqi beside her.

Gong Youqi, naturally, couldn't let Su Yingran bear the burden alone. "Aunt Su, Yingran and I have loved each other for two years."

Mrs. Su grew even more confused. "What exactly is going on here?"

Xue Han slowly clenched his hand. "Auntie, I've always known they truly love each other. Don't blame Yingran. I've also come to terms with it and won't make things difficult for them anymore." Without looking at Su Yingran, he said to her, "I just hope you can truly be happy."

Su Yingran was stunned. Mrs. Su finally understood the situation, looking at her daughter. "Yingran, is this all true?" She had always thought the Xue and Su families were close friends, and the two children had grown up together, childhood sweethearts. She had witnessed it herself; otherwise, why would she let her daughter marry just to preserve the family business?

But... perhaps she really was too old and muddled to see that her daughter had already made her own choice. In fact, the Gong family, like the Xue family, was a wealthy family and a top choice for young ladies. If her daughter truly loved Gong Youqi, she wouldn't object too much. However, the Xue family had strongly supported the Su family and helped a great deal in the past two years. How could she face Xue Han's parents?

Xue Han seemed to guess this point as well, and smiled with relief. "Auntie, you don't need to feel guilty. I'm also very happy that Yingran has found happiness, and," he frowned slightly, still speaking, "and I've also found a girl I like."

The four were shocked again.

Su Yingran looked incredulous. How could she believe that the person who had always been wholeheartedly devoted to her suddenly had another love interest?

Gong Youqi's frown deepened, his dark eyes flashing, as if he understood something, and he glanced towards the door.

Mrs. Su also stammered. "A Han... who... who do you like?"

There was movement outside the door. Yu Xi, walking in with an elegant and dignified smile, nodded gently to everyone. "The one Mr. Xue likes is me."

Mrs. Su also stammered. "A Han... who... who do you like?"

There was movement outside the door. Yu Xi, walking in with an elegant and dignified smile, nodded gently to everyone. "The one Mr. Xue likes is me."

The four were utterly astonished.

Su Yingran was the first to lose her voice. "How could... impossible!"

Gong Youqi's face instantly froze. The sharp, piercing gaze he shot at Yu Xi was ignored by her, making no impression. She looked at Xue Han with intense, emotional fervor, acting very much in character. "Mr. Xue, I thought you wouldn't have the courage to say it... You truly touched me!"

She really was touched! She had been waiting anxiously outside the door, almost thinking she wouldn't get a chance to appear.

Xue Han watched her realistic performance—his face slowly reddened, yet it strangely seemed as if they truly had something illicit going on.

Mrs. Su stared at her for a long time, then suddenly recognized her. "You, aren't you the female companion Mr. Gong brought last time? What is going on here? Which one of you likes whom?!"

Yu Xi looked at Mrs. Su with admiration. Good question! Who likes whom? Who can really say! She walked to Xue Han's side, clinging to him like a small bird, gently pulling his clothes, her eyes full of tender affection. "Mr. Xue, Xiao Xi has made things difficult for you."

Xue Han swallowed, struggling to cooperate. "Xiao... Xi, don't say that. We are truly... genuinely in love. I believe everyone will understand."

Su Yingran was still muttering, "This is impossible..."

Gong Youqi's expression changed several times. Yu Xi simply wouldn't look at him. Finally, he couldn't hold back and walked over, grabbing her wrist, his voice sinister. "What play are you putting on?!"

She struggled fiercely, but couldn't shake him off. The pain brought tears to her eyes. She turned her head to Xue Han for help.

Xue Han received the signal. He stepped forward and took her other hand. "Mr. Gong, please release her."

Under everyone's gaze, Gong Youqi had to let go, but he still pressed her. "You're in love, hmm? When did this happen?"

Yu Xi hid behind Xue Han, only peeking her head out to look at everyone, feigning the timidness of a young wife. "We... we also fell in love at first sight." Let's all play magical romance. If you and Su Yingran can fall in love at first sight, why can't Xue Han and I?

Su Yingran and Mrs. Su were completely dumbfounded. Seeing Xue Han protecting Yu Xi, they couldn't help but believe it somewhat. Only Gong Youqi clearly understood Yu Xi's mockery. Perhaps if she had enlisted Lu Renjie to act, he might have believed it a bit, but her and Xue Han? Love at first sight?! What a joke! When did she abandon handsome men and start liking polite scholars like Xue Han? He knew she was acting but couldn't expose her, so he could only glare at her fiercely, the chill in his eyes making Yu Xi cling even tighter to Xue Han.

"I know I'm not worthy of Mr. Xue, but we truly love each other, and we hope everyone can grant our wish." She painfully pinched herself, successfully making tears fall, appearing heartbroken and pitiable. "Mrs. Su, please forgive Mr. Xue. It's all my fault... Miss Su, you already have Young Master Gong, so please let Mr. Xue go. He has been suppressing himself for your sake, always secretly drinking to drown his sorrows. It pains me to see him like that." Her words were a mix of truth and falsehood, not entirely believable, yet hard to disbelieve.

Lu Renjie, standing by the door, watched the scene with a completely expressionless face. This mischievous girl dared to act in such a play. If Mrs. Su accepted it, the media outside would likely sensationalize it. She surely hadn't thought that far ahead. He also felt a touch of jealousy; if she wanted to act, why didn't she ask him to be the male lead?

Gong Youqi suppressed his anger to the extreme. If Mrs. Su and Su Yingran weren't present, he might have severely pinned down that vixen and given her a good spanking. He had still underestimated her, thinking she was listless all day and had lost her fighting spirit, unable to play any more tricks. He had still underestimated her determination to escape.

Somewhere deep, deep in his heart, it was suddenly as if countless small piranhas were gnawing at him. This time, her actions were resolute. He knew that in front of Mrs. Su and Su Yingran, he couldn't stop her. Thinking of her unwavering determination to leave him, his heart was pierced with prolonged pain, and for a moment, he was speechless.

Mrs. Su finally spoke slowly, "A Han, are you two serious?"

Yu Xi nodded very sincerely. Xue Han gritted his teeth and also nodded.

Su Yingran stared blankly at Xue Han, then suddenly burst into tears. "Good, good! Xue Han, I was the one who wronged you first. I can't blame you. Today... let our engagement be dissolved. I hope you truly love Miss Yu." In her heart, she actually believed it was a play, and Xue Han's purpose in doing this... she knew, he didn't want her to feel too guilty, so he discredited himself by being unfaithful. But he didn't know that his well-intentioned actions would deepen her guilt tenfold!

"Ah, well... Since you and Yingran have both found your own happiness, what more can I say?" Mrs. Su sighed. "No matter what your relationships were before, let's all forgive each other now. As long as you two couples truly love each other and can be happy, that's what matters."

Yu Xi thanked her gratefully, not forgetting the most important thing. She looked at Gong Youqi with a look of great apology. "Young Master Gong, thank you for your past care. Since you and Miss Su have been recognized, our contractual relationship is officially over from now on, alright? Can I have my passport back immediately? Mr. Xue and I might return to America to see his parents the day after tomorrow." When he picked her up from the You Gang last time, he had already confiscated her important documents. Now she had to seize the opportunity to get them back and seek his verbal assurance of letting her go.

Gong Youqi looked at her, his dark eyes rapidly contracting, like a magnetized spell, firmly pulling her in, making her dare not shift her gaze.

She used all her strength to regain her consciousness, then delivered another heavy blow. "Young Master Gong, I understand you deeply loved Su Yingran, which is why you asked me to act before. But now your relationship with Miss Su can be public, and you no longer need me, right? Now you can openly treat Miss Su well, and Miss Su will be very happy that you only have her in your eyes. Miss Su, don't you agree?"

Yu Xi watched his silence, feeling a bit anxious. Bastard, I've already given you several high compliments, isn't that enough? Speak up!

Gong Youqi remained silent, an inner voice desperately shouting: You dream on! Dream on! Dream on about leaving me! I absolutely, absolutely, absolutely, absolutely will not agree!!

Finally, even Su Yingran looked at him, waiting for an answer. His eyes narrowed, and he finally, reluctantly, uttered one word: "Fine." The word seemed to be gritted through his teeth, and also seemed to carry the weight of all his strength.

He took a deep breath, then suddenly, in a fit of extreme anger, laughed instead. "I'll let you go. All your documents will be returned. Come with me now to get them."

Yu Xi's nerves tensed, and alarm bells rang. She'd rather die than go back with him. Heaven knew if he'd tie her up and lock her in a cellar, never to see daylight again, the moment they stepped out of the Su family mansion.

"This... could you please have someone send them over? Or directly to Mr. Xue's place? Uh, I'll be staying at Mr. Xue's place from today onwards." She quickly latched onto Xue Han as her strong backing, mentally despising Gong Youqi: Demon, I won't fall for that trick!

Gong Youqi hardened his heart and began to play dirty. "My memory isn't very good. I'm afraid I might forget where I put things if I wait any longer."

Yu Xi looked at him, cursing him bitterly in her mind: I hope you really get Alzheimer's and forget everything!

At this moment, Lu Renjie's voice, like heavenly music, reached Yu Xi's ears. "Young Master Gong, I happen to be free. Perhaps I could go with you to get them on her behalf."

Ah! Mr. Passerby A, you are my god, my sun, my savior!

Gong Youqi glanced at the door. The foxy man easily deflected his sharp gaze. The two exchanged a few silent visual jabs, then Mrs. Su spoke again, "Since A Han and Miss Yu plan to leave the day after tomorrow, it's better to prepare early."

Ah! Mrs. Su, you truly are a benevolent Guanyin Bodhisattva, a Saint Mary!

Gong Youqi's face was grim. He nodded to Mrs. Su, then gently instructed Su Yingran to rest well. Without looking at Yu Xi or Xue Han, he said coldly to Lu Renjie, "Let's go."

Yu Xi felt her heart instantly lighten, floating, floating. Blue sky! Freedom! I can finally soar again...

Lu Renjie exchanged a knowing, smiling glance with her, as if congratulating her on her successful plan, then turned and followed Gong Youqi to retrieve the documents.

Yu Xi was carried away by her triumph for a moment, then snapped back to reality, finding Su Yingran staring blankly at the arm of Xue Han that Yu Xi was still holding. Her heart stirred. She said to Mrs. Su, "Excuse me, I suddenly need to use the restroom. Could you point me the way?"

Mrs. Su was startled. Being an intelligent woman, she nodded, glanced at Su Yingran and Xue Han, and then left with Yu Xi.

The two remaining in the room looked at each other in silence, suddenly feeling the vicissitudes of life and its helplessness.

After a long while, Xue Han spoke softly, "Yingran, I only hope you are happy."

At his words, Su Yingran's heart was struck as if by a stone, aching fiercely, and tears flowed freely.

Yu Xi immediately hid in Xue Han's villa that day. Of course, Lu Renjie also shamelessly followed, ostensibly to discuss official business with his boss, but privately to stir up trouble and join the fun.

Xue Han was in a terrible mood. For two days, he stayed in his study except for going to the company, dealing with all the recently shelved official duties and refusing to come out for fresh air. Yu Xi was also annoyed at not hearing any news from her brother and spent the whole day making unconscious circular movements in the garden. Lu the Fox felt very depressed. For the past two days, as soon as he arrived, the atmospheric pressure was so low that he felt chest tightness and shortness of breath. One person was breathing carbon dioxide in the study, and the other was wantonly trampling the lawn in the yard. In short, they both treated him as if he were transparent.

He found Yu Xi in the garden, watching her walking in circles around a large cluster of canna lilies. Midway, he found the right spot and abruptly cut her off, making her turn and fall into his arms. He smiled charmingly, "Throwing yourself into my arms, missed me?"

She wasn't in the mood for jokes. She lifted her head from his embrace, her face clouded with worry. "What do I do, senior? It's been almost a month, and there's no news of Xiao Chen. Something must have happened to him..."

Lu Renjie patted her shoulder. "I ordered bone soup from Pan's. Go drink it all. Look how thin you are now. When we find Yu Chen, he'll scold you. He's your brother; he's definitely as cunning as you. Nothing serious will happen to him so easily."

"Are the flight tickets really all arranged for tomorrow?"

"Mm-hmm. Young Master Gong hasn't seemed to make any moves these past two days. It looks like he doesn't plan to stop you. Maybe Yingran will go see Xue Han off at the time, and he won't be able to act."

To ensure a smooth departure tomorrow, Yu Xi prepared two sets of plane tickets: one for Australia and one for returning to the US with Xue Han. The boarding times were roughly the same. If Gong Youqi made no moves then, she would fly directly to Australia. If he still made things difficult for her, she decided to first go back to the US with Xue Han and then transfer flights from there.

She nodded, feeling a little relieved, then asked, "How is Scholar Xue doing?"

"Still distraught. He's probably still struggling with what he said about betraying Yingran."

Yu Xi smiled bitterly. "I made things difficult for him." Otherwise, she wouldn't have been able to escape. She had to force Xue Han to act with her. In fact, a conservative man like Xue Han would rather withdraw silently than claim a new love interest.

Lu Renjie stroked his chin. "It's not necessarily a bad thing. Yingran has also been in low spirits these past two days, seemingly very guilty towards him. At least you achieved his goal; Yingran won't easily forget him now."

She lowered her head and thought for a while. "Perhaps Scholar Xue feels a bit cruel about this. Since it's for Su Meiren's sake, it might be better for her if he leaves completely and lets her forget him."

"Your approach to Gong Youqi seems to fit this theory better." He saw everything. Yu Xi seemed to desperately want to escape Gong Youqi. Was it truly that she had no lingering affection for him, or was she pretending to be overly detached, while also trying to completely bring Young Master Gong and Yingran together?

She paused, then turned to walk back into the house. "Let's go eat."

Lu Renjie sighed softly behind her, thinking: Silly girl, I can see through your supposed heartlessness. How could Gong Youqi be a fool?

Gong Youqi almost thought he was a fool himself.

Outside the window, the night was as dark as ink. The late-night air was thin and cool, and the curtains swayed gently with the breeze.

Under the silk quilt, she lay curled on her side, her head bowed and tucked under her slender arm. Her fragrant, semi-dry long hair spread across the pillow.

He watched quietly, barely remembering if the first time she touched his heart was because he woke up one deep night and saw her sleeping in that same posture. She wasn't like other women who liked to burrow into a man's embrace for warmth. She always escaped when he was drowsy, keeping her distance, curling up alone to sleep.

She had always been an insecure woman, her heart closed to everyone. So later, he got used to holding her tightly before sleep, used to instinctively embracing her if she moved in the middle of the night. He didn't like to see her in that sleeping posture, as if she only needed herself in the whole world. He couldn't remember when he started to suspect that the charming, infatuated woman during the day wasn't her true self. She wrapped herself too tightly in a flashy exterior, making him explore layer by layer, yet still unsure what her truest self was like.

She seemed incapable of falling for anyone, whether it was him or Lu Renjie. He even secretly investigated Liang Qingshan and the company's Manager Fang. He investigated every man she had interacted with, but he understood her less and less. She wanted to escape him, claiming she didn't want to be a third party. He believed her, but he was even more unwilling to let her go.

That dramatic scene the other day might have fooled Yingran. Even though he knew she was mocking his promiscuity, it still infuriated him with her heartlessness. He had even thought that perhaps he should just let go. She wasn't worth his love. Yet, every night, he couldn't help but worry: had she eaten dinner? Did she sleep with her hair still wet? Was she curled up in that heart-wrenching position again?

He almost decided to give her up.

Yingran had been listless these past two days. He had stayed by her side when not at work, listening to her endlessly talk about her guilt towards Xue Han. Yet, he thought, that vixen had never shown him any lingering affection.

Until he heard Mrs. Su's advice: "Yingran, if you truly care for Xue Han, you should let go completely so he has no lingering attachments. Only then can he have a new beginning."

He suddenly thought, had she, from the very beginning, not wanted to care for him, deliberately making him resentful so he wouldn't have any lingering affection for her, wanting him to be wholeheartedly with Su Yingran? She had never revealed her true feelings, whether right or wrong. It had always been his own imagination.

Had he always misunderstood her heartlessness?

Now, looking at her sleeping face, he desperately wanted to wake her up and ask for clarity, or take her away while she slept and hide her so she could never escape again. But in the end, he just stood silently until midnight before climbing out the window. His eyes were hidden in the darkness. He only heard his own strong heartbeat as he made his decision: he would keep her. One day, he would completely see into her heart.

He simply couldn't let go.

Xue Han didn't say a word on the way to the airport. Yu Xi couldn't resist taking out his phone.

Su Yingran was supposed to come see them off, but then Su Mother called, saying her daughter had a fever and was on an IV, so she couldn't make it. Xue Han immediately became lifeless.

Seeing Yu Xi directly press speed dial "1," accurately guessing it was Su Yingran's number, Xue Han hurriedly snatched the phone and hung up. "What are you trying to do?"

Yu Xi was exasperated. "Why don't you have any masculine vigor?! If you really can't let go, call her!"

Xue Han slumped in the back seat, dejectedly saying, "What else is there to say? Everything has already been made clear."

"No wonder Su Meiren didn't fancy you," she began to provoke him.

Xue Han indeed frowned. "What do you want to say?"

Yu Xi shrugged. "What women dislike most about men is being wishy-washy and indecisive. Don't you know why Su Yingran didn't fall for you?"

Her single sentence successfully captured the scholar's attention. Even Mr. Passerby A, driving in the front seat, turned his head back with a mischievous smile. "Analyze it."

Yu Xi perked up, sitting upright in a lecture-ready posture. "What aspects of a man are most attractive to women?" She asked herself first, then answered:

"First, it's not about how much money they have." She self-consciously hummed.

"Second, it's not about how good-looking they are." Lu Renjie looked back with a half-smile.

"Third, it's not about how high their power is." Those with high positions and generous salaries, please ignore this sentence automatically.

"Women desire a man's demeanor, loyalty, and strength," she said, looking at Scholar Xue, continuing with emotion. "Demeanor determines how one handles themselves in the world, loyalty concerns the longevity of love, and strength relates to life's trials. If these three points are achieved, he is the most charming man, and he will surely win the hearts of most women."

"Makes sense," Mr. Passerby A in the front chuckled, his charming eyes sparkling. "Xiao Xi, you can actually speak a great truth or two, but unfortunately, you're not included in those 'most women,' are you?"

Yu Xi made a face at him. "I'm lecturing Mr. Xue, not myself. It's directed at Su Meiren."

Xue Han remained silent, deep in thought.

She yawned, feeling that she had imparted the truth, and it was up to him to comprehend, digest, and absorb it.

Meanwhile, in the vice president's office of MJ Company, a man was giving orders into the communicator on his watch. "Ding Yang, tell your people guarding the airport to get ready..."

Upon entering the airport, she habitually scanned left and right, surveying the surroundings. Not finding any suspicious individuals, she smiled in relief. "My freedom is within reach."

Through Xue Han's connections, they directly entered the VIP area. They only arrived half an hour before boarding.

Lu Renjie held her hand and earnestly instructed, "Once you arrive in Australia, settle down and wait for me. I have some matters to handle here and will rush over in a couple of days. Don't go searching alone for Xiao Chen. Don't lose yourself before finding him."

She nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Senior. I've noted everything. My flight is a bit earlier, so I'll go in first." She glanced at the distracted Xue Han, encouraging him. "Scholar, you are definitely a good man. Try to be more optimistic. Perhaps one day, Su Meiren will finally realize you're the best."

The announcer began boarding calls. She smiled faintly at the two good men and went through security.

Confirmed that Gong Youqi had sent no one, she was happy that she was finally free of his control. From now on, she would have nothing to do with that man. The past four months as his mistress felt as long as four years. Perhaps these four years were but a fleeting moment in her long life. She didn't need to summarize or reminisce, even though he might have branded a mark belonging to him in the most secret corner of her heart, it wouldn't hinder her future days.

She was glad she could leave so gracefully, never owing him anything from beginning to end. Without him, she could still live a wonderful life. Without her, he merely lost a plaything that gave him novelty. Neither of their lives would derail, she thought.

Following the crowd slowly into the boarding gate, she suddenly felt a tap on her shoulder. Someone whispered, "Miss Yu."

She instinctively thought Gong Youqi had sent someone to capture her and was about to shout for help when the person quickly stepped in front of her and said, "Don't shout."

Yu Xi's brain whirred for a few seconds before she was surprised. "You?" Was it the leader of the gang chase in the alley that time, a certain man?

"I'm Tang Liu. Does Miss remember? Our Second Master requests your presence."

She was displeased. Even if it was a handsome man inviting her, it depended on the timing. What chaos was this during her crucial escape?

"Miss, our Second Master said he'd show you something, and you'd understand." He pulled out a small platinum ring and handed it to Yu Xi.

Her heart immediately clenched. She clutched the ring and grabbed Tang Liu. "Where's my brother?!" That ring was one of a pair of couple rings she and her brother had bought together for her birthday last year. At the time, she just liked it and didn't care about the "couple" meaning, so they each kept one.

Tang Liu coughed. "Miss, please come with me quickly, the cabin door is about to close." He pulled Yu Xi, going against the flow of people, out of the boarding gate. At the security checkpoint, they went through a small door on the other side, walking through what looked like an internal fire escape. They then made several turns and walked a considerable distance, directly exiting the main hall into the underground parking garage.

He pulled open the door of a luxurious Bentley and ushered Yu Xi inside. On the other side of the seat, the handsome man was squinting his peach blossom eyes and smiling. "Miss, we truly have a bond."

Tang Liu pulled open the door of a luxurious Bentley and ushered Yu Xi inside. On the other side of the seat, the handsome man was squinting his peach blossom eyes and smiling. "Miss, we truly have a bond."

Yu Xi had no interest in appreciating him, her face still tense, her hands clasped. "Where is my brother?"

Second Master leaned back in his seat, his legs crossed, his thin lips slightly curved, exuding an indescribable charm and wickedness. "Your attitude isn't very polite."

She took a deep breath, suppressing the urge to rush forward and choke him. She twitched the corner of her lips, forcing a sweet smile. "Second Master, I apologize for my rudeness. Please be magnanimous and overlook it. And please forgive any offense my little brother might have caused. He's young and ignorant. Please let him go."

Two cool, long fingers pinched her chin and turned her head. His dark, brown eyes studied her with interest for a moment before letting go. He chuckled softly, "Not bad. Much more interesting than that young punk. It wasn't in vain that I saved you today."

Seeing her bewildered expression, he prompted, "You offended the You Gang?"

Yu Xi immediately thought of Gong Youqi, surprised. Could he have actually used You Gang members to catch her? She had thought he would let her go this time, but then a complex, indescribable feeling surged within her. However, she was relieved to finally have news of her brother, and it seemed she would meet him soon.

Second Master waved his hand, and the car slowly started. He then turned his head, his narrow, charming eyes shifting slightly, and a chilling aura immediately emanated. His tone remained gentle and alluring, yet it instilled an irresistible fear. "I find women who ignore me quite irritating."

Arrogant and narcissistic! Yu Xi immediately felt a chill. She pouted and replied, "I accidentally provoked a cunning tiger."

Second Master chuckled, shaking with laughter. "So, you want to be a beast tamer?"

"I'm too lazy to tame him!" Yu Xi complained, accusingly pointing. "I only served this tiger for a while. I accidentally plucked a few of his hairs, and he's been petty and holding a grudge ever since. It's a shame that before I left, I kindly helped him fulfill his 'Beauty and the Beast' wish."

Second Master was in a very good mood, even laughing out loud.

The car drove onto the elevated highway. Yu Xi suddenly heard the airport announcement from the roadside intermittently: "...Please note... control tower navigation malfunction... all flights scheduled to depart within one hour are delayed by half an hour..."

"Look, I didn't expect that tiger to have such a large presence, searching for you with planes," Second Master said, closing his eyes and resting his arm under his head, appearing unconcerned.

She was stunned, unable to believe he would create such a grand display just to stop her from leaving. She forced herself to dismiss any thoughts related to him and asked seriously, "Are you taking me to see my brother? Is he in Shanghai?"

The man beside her didn't open his eyes, only lifted his lips. "You'll see him as long as you follow me patiently." After a moment of silence, he seemed to guess that Yu Xi was secretly texting on her phone, even with his eyes closed. His tone remained unchanged. "You can send a safety message, but I find talkative women quite irritating."

She wrinkled her nose, weighed it for a few seconds, then deleted the drafted text message. She simply sent Mr. Passerby A one sentence: "I'm going to find Yu Chen, I'm safe, don't worry." Then she turned off her phone. This Second Master, at first glance, was not someone to be trifled with, and his true intentions were unclear. It was better not to involve others.

The car stopped at a villa in the suburbs. Yu Xi excitedly followed him in, thinking her brother was inside, but Second Master merely ordered someone to go upstairs to get a few suitcases, and then prepared to leave again.

She was somewhat annoyed. "Where exactly did you hide Yu Chen?!"

He turned around and answered with a non sequitur. "What do you want to eat?"

Yu Xi froze, then angrily said, "I'm not hungry, I won't eat anything! I want to see my brother!"

"Really not eating anything? Alright, don't say I didn't warn you. Don't regret it later." She snorted.

She regretted it.

Damn it, nobody told her she'd be on a plane for over ten hours next.

A medium-sized private jet carried over ten people, and the cargo hold was filled with sealed boxes of goods. Yu Xi was anxious all the way. After a brief sleep, she realized the plane had stopped in Hong Kong. After more than an hour of inspection, refueling, and unloading, other containers were loaded. Then it flew from evening until the next morning. During this time, she watched the charming man next to her elegantly eat steak, leisurely savor red wine, gracefully mix salad, and even heartily gnaw on several chicken wings. She desperately buried her head in the seat and covered herself with a blanket, but couldn't block out the enticing aroma.

Weakly, she lifted a corner of the blanket and looked over resentfully, meeting the enchanting man's flirtatious eyes. "But you said you weren't hungry."

Then he continued to clang the plates and dishes, even deliberately smacking his lips. Finally, he kindly pushed over a half-eaten steak. "Although it has a little of my saliva on it, the deliciousness isn't diminished one bit."

Yu Xi raised her fist, determined to shout, "A scholar would rather die than be humiliated! It's not begged food!" If you had a good attitude and offered me a new portion, I would eat it! But the charming man actually feigned an impressed look, shrugged, took back the food, and continued to elegantly wield his knife and fork, leaving her to force herself to dream of delicious food in her sleep. Her stomach performed an "empty city stratagem" the entire journey.

As the plane slowly descended in the morning, she saw the boundless blue ocean. Lower still, she saw the plane landing near a small, sprout-shaped island in the distance. Although she felt a timid apprehension for this unfamiliar territory, she was certain Yu Chen was in their hands. This Second Master, though eccentric, didn't seem like a great villain, so her primary emotion was the anticipation of seeing her brother.

Stepping off the plane, she shivered slightly in her single shirt. Judging by the types of trees around, this small island should be in a subtropical or temperate zone. It was October, just past early spring in Australia, so the temperature wasn't high, but it didn't seem that cold here either. It should be some distance from Sydney and Melbourne, closer to the north.

She guessed this private island was their stronghold. Thinking of the You Gang's resort, she felt this place was much grander. This kind of triad was truly impressive.

"Welcome to Eden Island," Second Master stood beside her, politely gesturing "please." A car was already waiting in the distance.

"Is this Australia?" The flight time roughly matched.

He didn't hide it: "It's New Zealand. The scenery's not bad, is it?"

Yu Xi paused, then asked, "Why did you capture my brother?" Although Yu Chen was a bit scatterbrained, he was definitely not a troublemaker.

Second Master only smiled without answering. He got into the car and said, "My eldest brother brought your brother here, and he also asked me to invite you over for help."

"Help?"

He smiled mysteriously. "You'll know in a moment."

The journey was quiet, but her heart pounded. She still hadn't figured out the situation, and now his "eldest brother" had appeared. Things were getting more complicated. What trouble had that kid Yu Chen gotten into?

Halfway up the mountain stood a European-style building. Just the several exquisite marble pillars in front of the door soared, exuding an aristocratic flair. Yu Xi had no time to examine them closely. She silently followed them in and stopped in the hall. Second Master gave a look, and someone immediately went to announce their arrival.

The charming man comfortably reclined on the sofa, crossing his legs, and asked the same question again. "What do you want to eat?"

Although her stomach was truly hungry, she had no appetite. "I want to see my brother."

He ran a hand through his long hair. "You'll have plenty of time later."

Did he mean she had to stay for a long time? Being led around by the nose the whole time, Yu Xi finally lost her temper. She suddenly stood up. "Where exactly is Yu Chen? What are your intentions?!"

Another deep, magnetic male voice suddenly came from her side. "His sister found him?"

She was startled. How could this person be so silent? She turned around and saw a solid, bronze-colored chest... a chest? She slowly looked up, only to see a chiseled face, with distinct features. She was stunned again. Ah! These eyes, this nose, these lips, this face... how could it be so ordinary!

It was indeed an unremarkable face, but his height was striking, over 1.9 meters... She measured him with her eyes, looking at the man before her who, apart from his face, resembled an Arnold Schwarzenegger clone, and involuntarily took a few steps back. He was also sizing her up. A pair of seemingly unremarkable light brown eyes showed a ripple when they saw her appearance. His lips moved, and a low, magnetic voice spilled out again: "Indeed, very similar."

Yu Xi quickly guessed his identity. Seeing Second Master also stand up when he saw him, she was quite certain this "Arnold" was the boss here. She had intended to approach him softly at first, but then she felt the accumulated frustration from the journey and the near madness from worrying about Yu Chen. All her grievances turned into little figures flying out, surrounding the big man in front of her and crying out their wrongs.

The two stared at each other, not with electrical crackles, but with the fire in Yu Xi's eyes. She fearlessly walked up to Arnold, tilted her head back, and questioned him, "Why does a big, burly man like you bully children?! Aren't you ashamed!"

Arnold frowned slightly, momentarily stunned, failing to react.

Second Master coughed beside him, explaining to the man, "This woman is quite bold... her thoughts jump around." He then raised an eyebrow at Yu Xi. "With that attitude towards our gang leader, don't expect to see your brother today."

Another gang leader! White gang, black gang, or beggar gang? She struggled to suppress her anger. "What mistake did my brother make for you to capture him? Where is he now? I want to see him!"

The man in front of her sat down on the sofa. Despite his ordinary appearance, he exuded an aura of authority that made people不敢直视 (dare not look directly). "Sit."

"I want to see Yu Chen." She stood her ground, knowing well that she shouldn't act wildly on their territory, but still unable to control herself. She had come with them, and they still wouldn't let her see him. Had something happened to Yu Chen?

She bit her lip and looked at Arnold, trying to use a polite tone. "This... whatever gang leader, if my brother inadvertently offended you in any way, I apologize on his behalf. I will do my best to compensate you for whatever you want. I hope you won't hold a grudge against a child and will let him go."

The man looked at her again, his tone calm. "My name is Lan Da." (Blue Big, or Big Blue)

You're so arrogant! Yu Xi secretly gnashed her teeth. I don't care if you're Green Big, Red Big, or Peking University Big, just let me see him and I'll admit you're big. Second Master gave her a look, signaling her to sit down; the boss was about to speak.

"A month ago, I was injured and chased in a small town in eastern Australia. Chen helped me in the chaos of the market," Lan Da recalled, narrating calmly. "He took care of me for a week, and I wanted to thank him."

Yu Xi interrupted, "You mean Xiao Chen saved you?" So it was a favor, not a grudge. "Then why did you bring him here?"

"I didn't capture him." Lan Da's eyes lowered, looking at Yu Xi. "I wanted to keep him."

Yu Xi relaxed. It seemed Yu Chen hadn't caused any trouble. Her attitude immediately changed, and she smiled faintly. "Gang Leader Lan, I thank you on my brother's behalf for your generosity. He hasn't finished his studies yet. As for the underworld... uh, your line of work, he can't contribute anything. Please let him go."

Lan Da fell silent, no longer speaking.