Friday.

The weather was clear and cloudless.

Just after lunch, Shang Xuci took Jian Xun out of the company. At first, Jian Xun thought they were going to work outside, but Shang Xuci pulled up next to a shopping mall.

“Are we going shopping?”

“I’m taking you to buy clothes.”

“Oh.” Being the boss was great. You could work whenever you wanted, go shopping whenever you wanted, and never have to worry about asking for time off or maintaining perfect attendance.

Jian Xun checked the time and planned to be back before the end of the day so he could clock in at the company.

Shang Xuci, seeing what was on his mind, took his hand and said, “Don’t worry, I’ve given you a half-day off. You don’t have to clock out.”

Even though he was so wealthy, Jian Xun—who was already considered family—was still so innocent and unbelievably diligent at work.

The perfect attendance bonus was only 500 yuan, yet he cared about it so much that Shang Xuci couldn’t help wondering if he hadn’t given him enough money.

Thinking of this, Shang Xuci pulled out a bank card with a white lion cat printed on it and handed it to Jian Xun.

“This is Sui Sui’s card. It has the money from acting jobs and the red envelopes people gave to the cat.”

Jian Xun’s eyes lit up, his happiness plain to see. He hugged Shang Xuci and quickly gave him a light peck on the cheek.

“Thank you, Boss Shang~”

Struck by his cuteness, Shang Xuci smiled faintly. He didn’t mention that the card was linked to his own account—and was actually an unlimited black card.

From the second to the fifth floor, clothing stores lined every corner. Jian Xun held the card and followed Shang Xuci into a shop. Shang Xuci found great joy in picking out clothes, having him try them on, and finally paying.

Clothes, pants, shoes, bags, hats… all kinds of accessories.

Jian Xun stood obediently in front of the mirror, letting him choose the outfits.

A new kind of satisfaction welled up in Shang Xuci’s heart. From head to toe, this person belonged to him—including his clothing.

In less than an hour, their hands were full of shopping bags.

Jian Xun had checked the prices in the fitting room. The cheapest undershirt, even on sale, was close to five figures. Yet as long as it fit and he said he liked it, Shang Xuci bought it without hesitation—never even blinking when swiping the card.

Although his family’s financial situation in his previous life was decent, his parents had never personally taken him to pick out clothes or asked if he liked them. They would just buy him one or two things while shopping for his brothers.

Thinking back now, maybe his parents hadn’t loved him that much—everything related to him had just been a formality.

But Shang Xuci was different. When he chose clothes for him, there was nothing but love and appreciation in his eyes. Everything he bought was for Jian Xun. He didn’t even pick out a single item for himself.

Suddenly, Jian Xun remembered he still owed Shang Xuci two pairs of pants. Seeing the man preparing to buy even more for him, Jian Xun stopped.

“Baby, what’s wrong?”

Jian Xun pointed to the temporary lockers nearby.
“We can store these here and go to the shop across the way.”

He thought the clothes on the model in the poster across the street would look great on Shang Xuci.

With just one glance, Shang Xuci understood what he was thinking, and his heart warmed.
“Okay, let’s go over there.”

Jian Xun pulled Shang Xuci into the store, pointed at the poster, and asked the clerk to bring the pants. He handed them to Shang Xuci with a look of anticipation.
“I think these would be perfect for you.”

“I’ll go try them on.”

Shang Xuci’s clothes were all custom-made by major brands and delivered to him each season, so he had never paid much attention to what he wore. But seeing how happy Jian Xun was while picking clothes for him, he let him.

The man was tall, with a smooth, powerful waistline free of any excess. The pants made his legs look even longer and straighter.

Jian Xun’s eyes lit up, and he stared intently at Shang Xuci, sincerely praising, “You look so handsome!”

Shang Xuci’s thin lips curved into a smile.

“You too,” he replied.

Jian Xun immediately grabbed another pair of pants he had spotted earlier.

“Try this one too.”

Shang Xuci went to change into the new pair.

“Wow, this one looks great too!”

At that moment, Jian Xun finally understood how Shang Xuci must have felt when he had been choosing clothes for him.

When Shang Xuci came out of the fitting room, Jian Xun felt as though he were watching a captivating fashion show he never wanted to end. He kept grabbing more clothes for him to try on.

In the end, Shang Xuci chose only one set.

“This is enough. It’s too much otherwise, and I won’t be able to wear them all.”

Jian Xun thought of the walk-in closet at home—the man really did have plenty of clothes. Reluctantly, he put the rest back on the rack.

“You have to buy two pairs of pants,” Jian Xun insisted, walking to the cash register first. He pulled out his wallet, looked up at Shang Xuci with a serious expression, and declared, “I’m paying!”

“Okay,”

The salesperson quoted the price. Jian Xun gritted his teeth, took out his bank card, and paid.

“Two pairs? Why two?” Shang Xuci asked as they left the store.

“Didn’t you see the note I gave you back then?” Jian Xun countered.

“I borrowed two pairs of your pants,” he explained. “That was when I had just turned into a cat.”

He had lent one pair to Xu Tutu, and he had taken the other with him when he ran away from home.

“You remember such small details so clearly.”

“They weren’t small details!” Jian Xun emphasized.

“I remember everything clearly, starting from when you fed me milk under the crape myrtle tree,” he mumbled. “In a cat’s world, there is only one human. So of course I remember everything.”

“I wasn’t even sure if you liked me back then.”

He had done so many things to please him, and it wasn’t until he saw Shang Xuci leap from the cruise ship into the sea to save a cat that he truly felt how important he was to him.

Hearing his last words, Shang Xuci patted his head and said softly, “I did like you. I already liked you a lot back then.”

He just hadn’t realized it at the time.

When Jian Xun wen to the bathroom, someone suddenly exclaimed, “Shang Xuci!”

Shang Xuci turned around and saw a girl standing beside a plainly dressed middle-aged man. At the sound of Shang Xuci’s name, the man’s eyes lit up. He stepped forward and greeted him, “Hello, Mr. Shang. I’m Ah Xue’s father, Liang Shuang.”

Shang Xuci gave him a slight nod before turning his attention to Liang Xue. He remembered her vaguely. There had once been a cat exchange group chat in the class group, and Shang Xuci had joined it as well. Though he rarely spoke, he would scroll through everyone’s shared cat products. Liang Xue had been the most active participant, and her family seemed to be in the cat food business.

Liang Shuang was pleasantly surprised to run into Shang Xuci while shopping—and even more delighted that the man seemed to remember his daughter.

“I’ve long heard Ah Xue talk about you. Mr. Shang, you’re truly so young and promising,” he praised, before checking the time. Pulling Liang Xue forward, he nudged her a step closer.

“I often hear Ah Xue mention you. Are you her male god? Hm, that’s not the right term—idol! It’s almost dinnertime. I wonder if we might have the honor of inviting you to join us?”

“Sorry,” Shang Xuci replied, “I already have an engagement.”

Liang Shuang noticed he was carrying only one bag and saw no one else with him, so he assumed Shang Xuci was just making an excuse to decline. Feeling regretful, he tried again with a smile, “If you don’t mind, we could eat together.”

Liang Xue blushed, tugged her father’s sleeve, and said, “Dad, he already has an engagement.” Then she turned to Shang Xuci with an apologetic look.

“I’m so sorry, Shang Xuci. My dad’s a bit too enthusiastic.”

Shang Xuci shook his head, his expression distant, silently repeating the name Liang Shuang. Something flickered in his mind, just out of reach. Then, turning his head, he saw Jian Xun walking over—and suddenly, everything clicked.

Liang Xue followed his gaze and spotted Jian Xun. She exclaimed in surprise, “I remember you—you’re Jian Xun!”

Jian Xun also recognized Liang Xue and Liang Shuang. Weren’t they his former bosses?!

Liang Shuang, a seasoned businessman, noticed Shang Xuci holding Jian Xun’s hand and their intimate demeanor. Instantly, he concocted a story in his head and quickly tried to find the right words.

“I remember now. You’re the boss of Greedy Cat Pet Co., Ltd.”

Shang Xuci’s gaze sharpened on him.

“My boyfriend used to work at your company.”

Cold sweat broke out across Liang Shuang’s back. If Jian Xun had only been an ordinary employee, he wouldn’t have thought much of it. But Jian Xun had been bullied at his company and had resigned because of it. Now, forming a connection with Shang Xuci would be… difficult.

Jian Xun looked up at Shang Xuci.

“You knew?”

“It was on your resume. Did you forget?”

“Of course I remember. I meant the incident I told you about.”

Shang Xuci’s lips curved slightly. He remembered more than that. Later, after Sui Sui had run away from home, he had looked into the cat’s detailed living conditions. Jian Xun had worked at a factory and been framed by his supervisor for stealing. Someone had even called him and said, “Your son, Jian Xun,” but he had assumed it was a prank call and hung up.

Now, thinking back, he realized just how wronged Jian Xun must have felt at the time. If only he had paid a little more attention, he might have found his cat sooner.

“Yeah, I know that too,” Shang Xuci said, patting Jian Xun’s head.

Liang Shuang quickly tried to salvage the situation.

“Mr. Shang, even though it was a long time ago, I know it wasn’t Jian Xun’s fault. It was my poor management. I want to apologize to Jian Xun on Liang Wei’s behalf. I hope you won’t hold it against him.”

Jian Xun knew it really had nothing to do with Mr. Liang. The man had even helped him clear his name that day. It was Jian Xun himself who hadn’t wanted to stay at the company any longer.

“That’s all in the past,” Jian Xun said, not wanting to waste more time on the matter. Pulling out his phone, he added, “Tu Tu’s shop is ready. I want to go check it out.”

“Okay, I’ll go with you.”

“I’m going to grab a milk tea first.” He noticed Liang Shuang and his daughter lingering, reluctant to leave, so he gave them a moment to speak.

Shang Xuci already knew what the father and daughter wanted to say. He looked back at them and said calmly, “For any business cooperation, please follow the standard procedure. There’s no need to say anything else.”

Although business partnerships shouldn’t involve personal feelings, the thought of the grievances Jian Xun had suffered there left him displeased. If two companies offered equal advantages, he would definitely favor the other one—his heart would naturally lean that way.

…

At four o’clock, Jian Xun began helping out at the café. From outside, Shang Xuci spotted him right away in the employee uniform. After entering and greeting him, he saw that Jian Xun was busy, so he found a quiet place to sit.

Shang Xuci’s gaze never left him.

He was wearing a white T-shirt and an apron with the cafe’s logo, a baseball cap on his head, and his mask pulled down under his chin.

Someone in the kitchen called his name. Jian Xun quickly turned and answered, “Just wait for me to finish up, and I’ll come find you.”

Then he hurried back to his station.

Only after Jian Xun was out of sight did Shang Xuci take a serious look around the café. Several cats of different breeds were scattered about, each resting in its own territory. Customers sat in pairs at the surrounding tables, petting the cats.

Almost every table was occupied, and there were many cats, yet surprisingly few staff. Shang Xuci saw Jian Xun busy making coffee, clearing tables, and helping others.

After finishing the coffee, Jian Xun came out with a clean cloth. He picked up a cat and carefully wiped it down, murmuring something softly to it. After that, he started wiping the floor, humming as he worked, completely absorbed in his tasks.

Shang Xuci sat for a while—and gradually began to feel a little bored.

His gaze only found interest when it was fixed on Jian Xun.

Seeing him busy, running back and forth to the kitchen, Shang Xuci realized he wanted water but hadn’t ordered anything. Just as he was about to stand up, something soft brushed against his leg. He looked down and saw a fluffy orange cat.

He shifted his leg back, but the cat hopped along with him. As Shang Xuci bent down to gently push the cat away, he suddenly heard Jian Xun’s stern voice from across the room: “What are you doing?!”

Jian Xun rushed over carrying a cup of water, set the tray on the table, and quickly scooped the cat into his arms. He glanced at Shang Xuci, then scolded the cat seriously, “He already has a cat! You can’t go to him!”

The cat in his arms whimpered pitifully. Jian Xun looked up at Shang Xuci in surprise, then hurriedly carried the cat away. A moment later, he came back, pulled up a small stool, and sat beside him, pouting.

“I’d like some water,” Shang Xuci said.

Jian Xun quickly slid the glass across the table toward him.

“This is just for you,” he said. Then, as an afterthought, he added, “I’ll make you coffee when we get home.”

Shang Xuci didn’t ask why. He simply patted his head and smiled.

“Okay.”

Jian Xun helped out until the café closed at nine that night. Xu Tutu, very grateful, tried to persuade him to go out for dinner, but Jian Xun refused. He pointed toward the car outside.

“Someone is still waiting for me,” he said.

Xu Tutu followed his gaze, saw Shang Xuci sitting in the car, and let go of Jian Xun’s hand.

“Alright,” he said.

Jian Xun saw that he was lost, leaned over and said, “He helped you so much, and you’re not even going to buy him dinner?”

“He came to help on his own; I didn’t ask him,” Xu Tutu said, glancing at Xu Huai, who was now standing in a corner, watching him wistfully.

“So you’re really not going to forgive him yet?”

Ever since Xu Huai had been caught secretly following him, he had started openly appearing in front of him, doing all sorts of things to please him. He was also very attached to the cats and, outside of work, wanted to be with Xu Tutu twenty-four hours a day. In the end, Xu Tutu had no choice but to let him be.

“It depends on how he behaves,” Xu Tutu said.

Jian Xun understood the look on his face, knowing it was only a matter of time.

“Then I’m heading back,” Jian Xun said. “If you need my help with anything at the shop, just call.”

“Okay.”

Jian Xun turned and got back into the car, heading home with Shang Xuci.

“What did you talk about?” Shang Xuci asked casually while driving.

“Nothing, just thanked me for helping out,” Jian Xun replied, his tone light and cheerful.

As their conversation continued, Jian Xun added, “I’ll go help out again next time.”

“Okay.”

“Could you not come?”

“Why not?”

“The cats really like you,” Jian Xun said without hesitation. “I don’t like them getting close to you.”

Remembering the misunderstanding from last time, Shang Xuci quickly explained, “I didn’t go to hold them.”

“I know.” Jian Xun paused, then mumbled softly, “You don’t know how popular you are with cats…”

The car stopped at a traffic light. Shang Xuci looked at him intently and said slowly, “I don’t need any other cats to like me. You just need to know—you’re the only cat I like.”

Jian Xun took the opportunity to pinch his cheek and lean over to breathe in his scent.

“Me too. You smell so nice.”

It was the first time anyone—human or cat—had ever told Shang Xuci that he smelled nice, and he didn’t know how to react. The little cat-person beside him had already let his tail slip out and quietly asked, “Want to pet my tail? I promise it’s much softer than the cats at the café!”

“I want to touch your ears too,” Shang Xuci said.

“You can.” Jian Xun’s fluffy cat ears popped out on top of his head, wiggling slightly back and forth, making Shang Xuci’s hand on the steering wheel itch with the urge to pet them.

His breathing grew unsteady. “You can pet them at home.”

“Okay. And when we get home, I want kisses. I won’t turn into a cat and sleep with you tonight.”

If they hadn’t been in the car, Jian Xun would have clung to Shang Xuci right then and there. To avoid distracting him while driving, he held back and instead chattered on about the cats at the café, all while expressing how good Shang Xuci was to him.

“…I love Shang Xuci the most.”

Shang Xuci laughed. “Me too. My favorite person is Jian Xun.”

“And my favorite cat is Sui Sui.”

The two of them continued exchanging their affection. In the bustling, prosperous city, their story was only just beginning.

---

ry’s note: The Unwanted Disabled Kitty Just Wants Some Love~

Thank you to all the readers who have patiently waited for updates and supported it. (*/ω＼)

I hope you enjoy reading it. ♡

See you in the next translation~ (〜^∇^)〜

---

After saying that, he shyly buried his head in Shang Xuci’s broad chest.

Shang Xuci patted Jian Xun’s back twice, as if soothing a sleeping child, and said with a smile, “Me too.”

The furry head in his arms jerked up. “Really?”

Shang Xuci smiled faintly. “When have I ever lied to you?”

“Can I kiss you now?” Jian Xun asked, gazing longingly at the man. He truly enjoyed intimate gestures. Now that they were constantly pressed together, he pushed closer, wanting more.

Shang Xuci didn’t waste any time. He lifted Jian Xun’s chin and, before kissing him, said, “Remember to breathe.”

…

M Country.

St. Ann’s Hospital.

A clanging sound echoed from Ward 704, and glass shattered onto the floor.

The doctors and nurses in the corridor glanced over, then looked away, shaking their heads.

These days there were more and more patients prone to temper tantrums. Xu Rong was sweating profusely in disbelief — her son had just thrown a glass at her.

Shang Yi had been irritable before, but never to the point of throwing things. Now he was telling her to get out.

She had risked her life to see Shang Yi, and being treated like this chilled her to the bone. She pulled out her phone and said, “Calm down for a moment,” then stepped out and started making calls.

“Hello, Dad? Are you okay?”

After the call ended, Xu Rong’s expression turned serious. She sighed, collected herself, knocked on the door again, and entered.

“Have you calmed down?” Xu Rong asked the person under the covers.

Shang Yi, completely hunched under the blankets, didn’t answer.

“I’ll get you discharged tomorrow, and you’ll be gone.”

Shang Yi immediately threw back the covers. His eyes were red and swollen from crying, and he had dark circles beneath them. His hair was dishevelled, and his face was haggard. It was clear he’d suffered a great loss.

He stared at Xu Rong. “Do you want to kill me?”

“My legs are crippled. The doctor said that with proper initial treatment, surgery might have been enough to heal them.” Shang Yi raised his eyelids, his tone filled with hatred. “And now you want to take me away? You’re trying to kill me! I won’t go with you!”

Xu Rong stepped forward to comfort him. “Baby, listen to me. Don’t worry. We can still find a good doctor to treat your legs, even if we’re not here. Shang Xuci is the one to blame for your condition. Do you really expect him to save you?”

Shang Yi gave a wan smile. “Mom, do you still think I’m the same child who never grew up?”

“Isn’t it all your fault that I’ve become like this?” Shang Yi trembled with anger.

Since childhood, he had always listened to Xu Rong. Although pampered at home and given everything he wanted, his life was arranged entirely by her. There were no true likes or dislikes — only strengths and weaknesses to be exploited. Xu Rong always used him as a topic of conversation to show off in front of wealthy wives.

Even his love for music had been his own pursuit. He had genuinely loved it at first, but Xu Rong tied it to awards, forcing him to create music he didn’t enjoy.

He had later confirmed with Tang Mu that Xu Rong had done similar things many times. When his eldest brother revealed his mother’s true nature, he still refused to believe it.

In his mind, no matter how cruel his mother was, no matter how much she hated Shang Xuci, she would never harm Shang.

Shang Ye had told him that Xu Rong was colluding with outsiders, but he hadn’t believed it. He secretly replaced the company representative and got into his second brother’s car, never expecting such a tragedy to happen.

Now, he couldn’t believe his mother truly meant to kill him. Perhaps this was retribution. Instead of killing Shang Xuci, her son had suffered the consequences.

When Shang Yi learned his leg was crippled, he cried and raged. The thought that he might never stand again left him wishing for death.

Xu Rong was silent for a long moment before speaking. “What do you mean?”

“Just tell me — did you send someone to kill Shang Xuci? Did you arrange that attack?” Shang Yi asked, staring at her intently.

Xu Rong pressed her lips together. “I didn’t know you were in the car.”

At that, something seemed to dawn on her. She muttered, almost to herself, “I know… it must have been Shang Xuci. He sent you there on purpose!”

Otherwise, there wouldn’t have been extra bodyguards in the car that day, and Shang Xuci wouldn’t have escaped death.

Xu Rong gasped. “So he knew all along.”

By some cruel twist of fate, not only had he survived, but he had also driven a wedge between mother and son. How else could Shang Yi have spoken to her like this?

A chill ran through Xu Rong as she realized something terrible. Since Shang Xuci had told Shang Yi everything, her presence here could only mean she had been exposed.

Her expression changed abruptly, and she began hurriedly packing her things.

Shang Yi refused to leave, so she had no choice but to go first and make plans later.

As the door opened, two tall, burly plainclothes police officers blocked her path.

“Mrs. Shang, you are implicated in two murders and have fled abroad. Please come with us for questioning. This is your arrest warrant.”

Xu Rong’s face paled.

She suddenly regretted visiting Shang Yi. If she hadn’t, she might still have had the chance to escape abroad. But coming here had exposed her whereabouts. Shang Yi still refused to leave with her, yet at least his life wasn’t in danger while he stayed in the hospital. At most, Shang Xuci might threaten him through his son. But she was different. Shang Xuci was constantly investigating her.

Why was he abroad instead of in China?!

…

Ludao Garden

Jian Xun changed his shoes and waited for Shang Xuci. They got into the car together.

Shang Xuci glanced at him and said, “I’ll be staying in Xinyu today. You can come see me if you’re bored.”

“Okay, I’ll meet you for lunch at noon,” Jian Xun replied with a smile.

Shang Xuci nodded and walked him downstairs. After the car parked, Jian Xun eagerly unbuckled his seatbelt and opened the door.

Shang Xuci grabbed his hand and asked coldly, “Did you forget something?”

Jian Xun quickly searched his bag. His phone and keys were all there. Bewildered, he looked at Shang Xuci. “No, I brought everything.”

Shang Xuci pointed to his face.

Jian Xun immediately understood and leaned over to give him a hearty kiss.

“Okay.”

“I’ll pick you up at five.”

“Okay.”

After watching Jian Xun walk through the gate, Shang Xuci restarted the car and drove away.

When he arrived at the company, Fu Qian approached with a solemn expression. He lowered his voice. “Xu Rong has been arrested. She’s on her way back to China.”

“Just as you predicted, Mr. Shang, she contacted Du Guan quickly after going abroad. We’ve also located Du Guan and are ready to arrest him.”

Shang Xuci said, “Good. Bring them back. Xu Rong’s personal freedom can be released for now. Interrogate Du Guan as soon as he returns.”

“Understood.” Fu Qian followed him out of the private elevator and continued, “Doctor Fang suffered severe trauma in prison. He’s had a nervous breakdown and seems to be acting insane.”

“Have someone examine him thoroughly to see whether he’s truly lost his mind or just pretending. Tell him he’ll be reunited with Xu Rong soon.”

“Yes, sir. At last, this matter can finally be brought to a close,” Fu Qian sighed.

“By the way, Mr. Shang, I haven’t seen Jian Xun these past few days.”

“I asked him to join the esports department.” Shang Xuci’s expression softened considerably at the mention of Jian Xun. “It’s a better place for him.”

Fu Qian smiled. “I didn’t expect he’d be into esports.”

Shang Xuci returned to the office, and shortly after, there was a knock on the door.

“Come in.”

Xu Huai entered, holding a document. “The cooperation on the new project has been agreed upon.”

Shang Xuci took the document and reviewed it. “I trust you. Go ahead and handle it.”

“I’ll take care of it,” Xu Huai said, pulling out another document. “I understand you don’t want to manage Shang Group. But Xinyu is different. You built it entirely on your own. Are you really willing to let it go?”

Shang Xuci poured him a cup of tea. “You might have misunderstood me.”

“I just want to temporarily hand over the management of Xinyu to you,” Shang Xuci continued after a pause. “I want to spend more time with my family. You know how my grandmother is doing. And Jian Xun—I want to send him to study abroad and explore new markets…”

Xu Huai finally breathed a sigh of relief after hearing Shang Xuci’s explanation. He had been certain the other party wouldn’t suddenly promote him and expect him to take over permanently.

“Let’s not talk about that anymore. How are things going between you and Xu Tutu?”

At the mention of the cat-man, Xu Huai’s spirits dimmed. He gave a wry smile. “Although he’s willing to talk to me, he doesn’t seem to want to go home with me.”

“Take your time.”

Sui Sui and Tu Tu were cats with very different personalities. Shang Xuci had little experience raising cats and couldn’t offer any useful advice.

He cherished Sui Sui’s kindness toward him all the more. As long as he showed weakness and coaxed the kitten, it would forgive him.

Of course, he wouldn’t do anything out of line. Now that Sui Sui could transform into a human, they both had mouths to speak with—so they could simply talk things out and get along better.

“Yeah,” Xu Huai said softly. “At least he’s willing to pay attention to me now.”

“By the way, have they caught the culprit from that incident?”

“Yes.”

“That’s good,” Xu Huai said. “After this is resolved, you should rest for a while. I’ll help you manage Xinyu.”

…

A week later.

Du Guan was arrested, and Xu Rong, still at home, was on edge after hearing the news.

Now she was truly alone.

She recalled how, when she had just returned to China, Shang Wei hadn’t cared about Shang Yi at all. Instead, he had come straight to her, cursing and nearly hitting her.

Looking at his hypocritical demeanor, Xu Rong snapped, “You said I’m not clean?”

She almost laughed. Eyeing him up and down, she sneered, “Your hands and feet are filthy, but that’s the debt the Shang family owes my father! How clean are you, really? You’ve been obsessed with women all day long—your body must be rotten by now, right?!”

Shang Wei was furious. Xu Rong had always maintained a gentle image in front of him. Even when they had disagreed before, she had still pretended to be docile. But now? How dare she talk to him like this?!

The two kept arguing. Xu Rong exposed his serious illness, and Shang Wei called her shameless. They began pushing and shoving until the fight spilled into the stairwell.

Perhaps because she remembered the last time she had fallen down the stairs, Xu Rong used all her strength to retaliate. With a sharp kick, she sent Shang Wei tumbling down.

After receiving the call, Shang Xuci rushed to Shangjia. Shang Wei lay on the ground, his face twisted in pain and unable to move. Beside him, Xu Rong’s voice trembled. “He fell down!”

The ambulance arrived shortly, and Shang Wei was taken to the hospital.

Soon, searches about the Shang family began trending online. Xu Rong, once a celebrated film queen, was exposed for her unhappy marriage and the collapse of her life as a wealthy wife. On top of that, she was embroiled in a legal battle, implicated in a murder case.

Paparazzi even captured her at the hospital, dabbing at her eyes with a handkerchief pulled from her designer bag.

On the day Du Guan was recaptured and brought back to China, Shang Xuci was present for the questioning.

Both were sentenced for murder and economic crimes, and the case involving Shen Tianlei was also reopened for a new trial.

When Xu Rong heard the news of her twenty-year sentence, her head spun. On the day she entered prison, she saw Shang Xuci trying hard to stay calm, and she laughed in fury.

Shang Ye never recovered from this, spending his days at home, flat on his back, living an even more dejected life.

At first, Jiang Yuanqing was understanding and tried to comfort him, but after a while, she began to resent him. They argued constantly, and no one else was willing to give her what she wanted…

Gradually, their relationship broke down. Jiang Yuanqing moved out of the villa and drifted from one financial sponsor to another in pursuit of her career. Occasionally, when she saw financial news, she would think of someone she disliked. Now that their statuses were worlds apart, she would raise her glass and chuckle to herself…

Of course, that was all for the future.

For now, the dust had settled.

After the meeting, Shang Xuci checked the time, stood up, and headed downstairs. He felt more relaxed than ever, his steps light.

A gust of wind blew by, and he saw Jian Xun at the door, waving at him with a smile. All the love, hate, and grudges felt like nothing more than passing clouds.

Shang Xuci’s lips curled slightly, and he strode quickly toward the young man.

Seeing his smile, Jian Xun immediately embraced him.

“Shang Shang, give me a hug.”

“Okay.”

-The End-

---

Shang Xuci gasped and looked at the culprit.

After a brief silence of two seconds, he said, “Let go.”

The big white cat also sensed something was wrong and quickly pulled back its two guilty front paws. With a flick of its hind leg, it transformed into a young man sitting on Shang Xuci’s lap.

Slightly long, curly hair fell over his shoulders. His fair face looked innocently at Shang Xuci, his ears twitching while his fluffy tail rested on the spot he had accidentally pressed. He wanted to gently soothe it, but when Shang Xuci’s gaze caught his, he pulled back angrily.

“I didn’t mean to,” Jian Xun said.

He had thought a massage would make Shang Xuci feel good. It was just carelessness—stepping on something he shouldn’t have. The little cat didn’t understand; he simply pressed down. He wasn’t the kind of cat to act irrationally or mischievously—he would always admit his mistakes quickly.

“Yeah.”

“So you forgive me?” Jian Xun asked happily, his tail twitching.

“I forgive you.” Shang Xuci’s throat bobbed, his dark eyes shifting. He turned over. “Let’s do it again.”

“Okay, okay.” Jian Xun knelt on the bed and diligently massaged his shoulders and legs.

Finally, the boss generously pulled a red envelope from the bedside table and shoved it into Jian Xun’s hand.

Jian Xun lay down beside him and asked, “Is this for my massage?”

“Is it enough?”

The red envelope was bulging, clearly prepared long ago. Jian Xun nodded happily and said, “Thank you, boss. You don’t have to pay me anymore. I enjoy giving you massages.”

Each massage raised the intimacy level by ten—the fastest method.

“This is pocket money for Sui Sui.”

“It’s the same thing.” Jian Xun tossed back the covers and crawled in, slowly moving closer to Shang Xuci. The cat ears on his head twitched, and Shang Xuci immediately hooked a finger around them, giving them a squeeze.

The tips of Jian Xun’s ears instantly turned red. He looked at Shang Xuci and asked, “Why do you always like touching my cat ears? Do they feel good?”

“They feel good,” Shang Xuci said with a smile. “You have cat ears when you’re a cat, and you like showing them off when you’re human. Are you trying to get me to touch them?”

Jian Xun’s little scheme was laid bare, and he retorted, “No, I just feel comfortable this way!”

With that, Jian Xun slid down and lay flat, pulling the quilt up to his chin with both hands. He said, “I’m going to bed. Good night.”

Shang Xuci lowered his head, glanced at Jian Xun—who was pouting with his eyes shut—and said nothing.

Jian Xun peeked open his eyes and asked, “Don’t you want a goodnight kiss?”

Shang Xuci readily leaned over and kissed his smooth forehead.

Jian Xun felt the warmth of the quilt. He slipped his feet between Shang Xuci’s legs and clung to him, just as he always did when they slept side by side. These intimate little gestures were unconscious, completely unaware of the effect they had on Shang Xuci. He relied on sheer self-control to hold back, silently warning himself not to move.

Unsatisfied, Jian Xun lifted his graceful neck, pouting even more. “Not enough.”

Shang Xuci, stirred by his longing, gave in. He kissed him.

Jian Xun grew dizzy from the kiss and instinctively parted his lips.

Then Shang Xuci kissed him again—deeper, until he was breathless.

Jian Xun began to regret his own inexperience and teasing playfulness.

From his face, to his lips, to his jaw, Shang Xuci kissed him, gradually losing control.

Holding him tightly, Shang Xuci noticed the faint blush blooming across his cheeks, his expression more alluring than ever. He deepened the kiss, his hand sliding lower. Hearing Jian Xun’s broken sobs, he finally pulled back with effort, clutching the furry cat’s tail between their intertwined legs, wondering how much longer he could endure.

Jian Xun finally had a chance to breathe. Nestled quietly in his arms, his eyelids drooped. His slightly cool hands rested against Shang Xuci’s warm chest, and he slowly drifted into sleep.

Shang Xuci lowered his gaze to Jian Xun’s small face. It had grown a little rounder since they first met, but it was still fair and clean, with delicate skin like fine porcelain—impossible to resist pinching.

When he did, Jian Xun whimpered softly, leaning closer against his shoulder, his head resting there as his breathing grew steady. His long eyelashes trembled slightly, his face peaceful in sleep.

Shang Xuci reached out and switched off the light. As the room darkened, his hand unconsciously stroked the cat ears, gently caressing them.

Jian Xun slipped into a deep slumber.

Shang Xuci’s sleep quality improved with him beside him, though his body clock remained out of sync. In the end, it was Jian Xun who woke him the next morning.

After washing up and having breakfast, Shang Xuci took Jian Xun to Yinfeng Entertainment.

The manager was already waiting at the door to greet them. Everyone had been worried that the company would collapse with headquarters in trouble, but Shang Xuci’s decisive actions had saved it. Their anxieties were finally eased.

From a distance, Wu An saw the boss step out from the driver’s seat, open the passenger door, and help a young man out.

The sharp-eyed employee behind him immediately noticed the unusual closeness between Shang Xuci and the young man and whispered a few words to Manager Wu.

After they were introduced, Manager Wu began to observe carefully. He noticed how Mr. Shang always smiled when speaking to Jian Xun, and how naturally intimate their behavior was. Wu An quickly understood and gained a deeper respect for Jian Xun’s judgment.

The elevator stopped on the 20^th floor, right at the esports department.

Jian Xun’s eyes lit up as he stepped inside. He had stumbled upon this place once before when he was still a cat, but seeing it now from a human perspective was an entirely different experience.

Wu An was perceptive. Seeing Jian Xun’s excitement, he immediately arranged for him to be taken on a tour.

Shang Xuci didn’t waste any time. “Wu An, starting today Jian Xun is a member of your esports department. Take good care of him. A new coach will join in a few days, and he’ll have only Jian Xun to supervise.”

Although Shang Xuci was reluctant to see Jian Xun leave his role as assistant, he wanted the young man to pursue his passion. He could help with his studies, and Jian Xun would receive professional coaching for his specialized courses.

As for himself, Shang Xuci planned to clean up the mess at Shang Group over the next few days. After handling Du Guan and Xu Rong’s affairs, he would focus on accompanying Jian Xun.

Seeing his boss come in person for what seemed like a small matter, Wu An understood even more clearly how much the young man meant to him. He nodded at once. “Don’t worry.”

By the time the group finished the tour and met the contestants, it was already lunchtime. Shang Xuci answered a few calls, then said to Jian Xun, “You’ll be working here from now on, so get acclimated.”

“What about you?” Jian Xun asked without hesitation. “Back to Xinyu or Shang Group?”

Xinyu was very close, just across the street from the building. Shang Group was farther away, and if Jian Xun wanted to find him it would take longer.

“Back to Shang Group first,” Shang Xuci said, squeezing his hand. “I’ll have someone pick you up for lunch at noon. Wait for me—I’ll take you home after you get off work.”

Seeing that everything had been arranged, Jian Xun nodded.

After settling Jian Xun’s affairs, Shang Xuci returned alone to Shang Group for a meeting.

Shang Ye and Shang Wei both attended. Under the two men’s sour looks, Shang Xuci announced his appointment as chairman of the group. His first order of business was to purge the traitors.

He read a list of names, dismissing fence-sitters and incompetent connections. He replaced the company’s mid-level management and demoted or reassigned top managers.

With each name called, those below felt uneasy.

But no one dared object.

After the meeting, Shang Wei took Shang Ye to a restaurant for a private meal.

The more Shang Wei thought about it, the angrier he grew. “How dare he fire us as directors in front of everyone? He’s getting more and more disrespectful toward his father!”

Shang Ye wasn’t in a much better mood. He picked up his glass and drained it.

The group’s ability to weather the crisis was entirely thanks to Shang Xuci. Both veteran and new employees were convinced by his leadership.

No one knew exactly how much equity Shang Xuci had taken from the family this time. Including the money provided by the patriarch, a conservative estimate put his stake at over sixty percent. He held absolute power, and no one could stop his decisions.

After the incident, Shang Ye realized his own limitations. He felt resentful but powerless. Fortunately, Shang Xuci showed him mercy, exiling him to a smaller subsidiary rather than firing him outright.

Shang Ye listened in silence to Shang Wei’s complaints.

Shang Wei was already a little drunk; it was unclear what he was thinking when he began cursing, “That bitch Xu Rong! How dare she steal company secrets… Wait until she comes back—I’ll show you how I’ll deal with her. Divorce… that’s right, I want a divorce!”

---

Five o’clock in the afternoon.

Shang Xuci drove Jian Xun home. On the way, Jian Xun asked, “What do you think of my work ability?”

“Tell me the truth,” he added seriously.

“You’re thoughtful and considerate, so being a personal assistant suits you perfectly.”

“What about regular clerical work?” Jian Xun continued. “I feel like I’m just doing chores and running errands—things anyone else could do.”

Sensing his low mood, Shang Xuci asked calmly, “Then what do you want to do?”

“Me?” Jian Xun said worriedly. “I don’t think I’m good at anything besides playing games and cooking.”

At the Jian family’s request, Jian Xun had learned many skills, like piano and ballroom dancing, but he never wanted to treat them as work.

Gaming was seen as a waste of time, and after hearing so much negativity, Jian Xun had given up on it.

“How about becoming an e-sports player?”

“Is that even possible?” Jian Xun’s eyes suddenly lit up.

“Why not?” Shang Xuci encouraged. “You’re already so good at gaming as a cat—you’ll definitely be even better as a human.”

The compliment lifted Jian Xun’s spirits. “How do you know cats are good at gaming?”

“You posted a video on your account.”

“Oh, you saw that?” Jian Xun covered his face with his hands, mortified that a close friend had discovered such an embarrassing part of his past.

Shang Xuci stopped teasing him. “I had an e-sports room set up at home. You can try it yourself.”

At a red light, Shang Xuci brought the car to a halt. Jian Xun leaned toward the window, intently watching the nearby university. Students passed by in groups, chatting and laughing.

Shang Xuci remembered what Jian Xun had once said about dying right after getting into university. He asked softly, “Do you want to go to school?”

Jian Xun hesitated, first shaking his head, then nodding. “Yes.”

He just didn’t want to go through all the hardships again. Jian Xun had never been a top student, but he had worked hard to earn his place at a prestigious university—and only he knew the struggles behind it.

Now, in this life, he had transformed from a cat into a human and was searching for work. Yet without a strong educational background, he couldn’t land a decent job. He understood the importance of education. Even though he didn’t need it while working at Shang Xuci’s company, he didn’t want to depend on Shang Xuci for everything.

“Then go,” Shang Xuci said. “What about your major? Do you want to choose e-sports?”

Jian Xun thought about it and felt a spark of excitement. “Yeah!”

It seemed Shang Xuci also supported him going back to school. Jian Xun had never dared to imagine it. Not long ago, he had been worried about rent and daily expenses. Returning to school—and even choosing a major he loved—had once felt impossible.

But the problem was, he didn’t even have an elementary school diploma in this world.

He voiced his concerns, but Shang Xuci only curved his lips. “Don’t worry about that.”

As long as Jian Xun wanted to go to school, Shang Xuci would find a way.

The two of them talked about Jian Xun’s future plans until they reached his house. Shang Xuci pulled over and said, “I’m going back to the Shang residence.”

Jian Xun sensed that something unpleasant awaited him, so he asked anxiously, “Do you need me to go with you?”

Shang Xuci shook his head, patted Jian Xun’s head, and smiled. “There’s no good food or drink there, and it’ll just be boring. Wait for me at home—I’ll be back soon.”

Jian Xun hesitated for a moment, then nodded obediently.

After watching him go inside, Shang Xuci restarted the car and drove straight to the Shang residence.

“Young Master,” the butler greeted at the door. “Master said to come straight upstairs.”

Shang Xuci changed his shoes at the entrance and ran into Shang Ye on his way up.

The man looked uneasy, dressed in a slightly wrinkled suit that was unlike his usual immaculate attire.

Shang Ye’s expression darkened when he saw Shang Xuci. Forcing a smile, he said, “I heard you were attacked abroad?”

Shang Xuci frowned slightly, resenting the way Shang Ye sized him up, a sour feeling prickling across his skin.

“But I’m glad you’re all right,” Shang Ye added.

“Are you finished? Please move aside,” Shang Xuci said flatly.

With a long stride, he brushed past him.

Shang Ye suddenly raised his voice. “You must be very pleased with yourself, aren’t you? After all these twists and turns, the Shang Group has finally fallen back into your hands.”

“No—if you want it, it’s within your grasp,” Shang Ye went on, his composure cracking. “Everyone’s bullish on you! You must be thrilled now, aren’t you?”

Shang Xuci replied coldly, “I gave you a chance.”

“Ability is honed through self-cultivation. You should seize opportunities.” He continued walking up the stairs, then stopped, turned, and looked down at Shang Ye. His voice was merciless. “Grandfather must have told you the same thing: merchants don’t talk about feelings, only profit. Instead of whining, why not think about reconciling with that crazy woman?”

“What do you mean?”

“I always thought I was cold, especially toward Shang family members. I didn’t expect you to be even more ruthless.” Shang Xuci’s gaze turned glacial. He sneered, “You even struck your own brother. Do you really think others are blind?”

With that, Shang Xuci turned away and walked down the corridor.

Shang Ye stood with his head bowed, face pale, his fingers clenched into fists. He cast an unwilling glance toward the study before finally pulling out his phone.

Tea Room.

Shang Jue was half-reclining in a chair, reading, a thin blanket draped over him. When the door opened, he adjusted his glasses and looked at Shang Xuci.

“You’re here? Are you all right?”

“Fine,” Shang Xuci replied without hesitation. He pulled out the chair beside him, sat down with his legs crossed, and said, “I’m sure you already know everything.”

Shang Jue’s hand trembled as he turned a page, then froze.

He closed the book and remained silent for a long time.

“It was a rough trip. I’m glad you’re safe,” Shang Jue finally sighed. “Otherwise, I don’t know how I’d explain it to your grandmother.”

“Have you found the murderer?”

“Grandpa, you know him,” Shang Xuci spat out. “Du Guan.”

“His original name was He Guan.”

At the mention of that name, Shang Jue’s expression changed drastically.

Shang Xuci immediately understood—it wasn’t just business competition. Du Guan was targeting the Shang family itself.

Shang Jue’s face darkened. He closed his eyes, and old memories surfaced.

He and Du Guan had once been classmates, close friends, even like brothers. After graduation, Du Guan followed him into Shang Group. At that time, Shang Jue still had an elder brother above him, and the competition was fierce. He had to claw his way up from the bottom. Du Guan was by his side through it all, until Shang Jue finally reached the top.

It was thanks to Du Guan’s help that he secured his position and expanded Shang Group threefold. But that rapid rise also planted hidden dangers.

Later, an incident occurred, and Shang Group was framed. Shang Jue was imprisoned, and the company went into decline. Du Guan served several years in his place.

Shang Jue had promised to take care of his family and arrange work for him.

But by the time Du Guan was released, his grandmother had passed away—just a week before his release. No one had told him, and he couldn’t even attend the funeral.

Heartbroken, Du Guan went to find Shang Jue, but he wasn’t there. Within two days, Du Guan received notice that the company had fired him. With his criminal record, no domestic firm would hire him. He was left to rely on his savings—and his girlfriend, who soon broke up with him.

Du Guan had been betrayed twice, both times by the people he trusted most. Later, Shang Jue’s father arranged a private meeting with him, but Du Guan took the money and left the country.

When Shang Jue found out and confronted his father, he discovered Du Guan was already gone. He had even changed his surname, and all traces of his past with the Shang family had been erased.

Now that Shang Xuci had spoken that name, the memories returned in full. No wonder Du Guan had targeted the Shang family. Shang Jue knew both his father and Du Guan too well. Du Guan was a man of fierce pride, while his father believed that money could solve anything. It was easy to imagine him saying something humiliating during their conversation. Otherwise, Du Guan would never have turned his hatred on the Shang family itself.

He hated them to the core.

Shang Jue’s pale face twisted into a wry smile. “I knew someone as arrogant as him would seek revenge sooner or later.

I just didn’t expect he’d actually come after you and Shang Yi this time.”

“Shang Yi was an accident.”

Noticing Shang Jue’s surprised expression, Shang Xuci thought to himself that the old man had truly grown soft—soft-hearted, confused, and far too trusting.

No wonder Xu Rong had devoted half her time to caring for him after his fall. She had only been paving a way out for herself.

“Xu Rong must have come to see you, Grandpa,” Shang Xuci said, his eyelids drooping. “Did she tell you about Shang Yi, put on a pitiful act in front of you, hoping I’d let her off?”

Shang Jue lowered his voice. “She’s done nothing for our family, but she has worked hard. Shang Yi’s injury nearly cost her life…”

At this, Shang Xuci sneered and cut him off. “Where is Xu Rong now?”

What would Shang Jue have done if it had been him lying in that hospital bed?

Shang Xuci lowered his eyes, remembering his previous life. It had been the same. Shang Jue had only come to see him briefly—not out of love for his grandson, but to confirm whether he was still capable of inheriting the company. When the doctor said his legs were disabled, the old man felt regret, but not grief.

Shang Jue’s words pulled him back from his memories.

“She went abroad to see Shang Yi.”

“Grandpa, you let her go?” Shang Xuci’s eyes narrowed, his cold glare fixed on Shang Jue. Frowning, he spoke slowly: “You should know the grudge between her and me.”

Shang Jue’s cloudy eyes shifted away as he cleared his throat. “Xu Rong told me about your grandfather’s situation. I knew I couldn’t intervene, so I simply asked her to check on Shang Yi. Once his problem is resolved, you can deal with her as you wish.”

Shang Xuci gave him a long, hard look and instantly made up his mind. He had once believed the old man might change in this life, but he never did. He always took everything for granted. He loved no one but himself.

Hearing this now, Shang Xuci almost found it laughable. “Since when did you become so trusting of Xu Rong? Are you so certain she’ll ever come back?”

Shang Jue frowned. “Her family is here—why wouldn’t she come back?”

After saying that, he picked up his teacup and took a sip.

“Right, you don’t know her identity yet,” Shang Xuci said after a brief pause. “Xu Rong is Du Guan’s daughter.”

Shang Jue’s hand trembled. A few drops of tea spilled onto his dry skin, slowly soaking into the cuffs of his sleeve.

“I met Shang Ye on my way here. Didn’t he tell you Xu Rong colluded with Du Guan to sell the company’s trade secrets?”

Shang Jue set down his cup, his eyelids twitching. Only then did he grasp the gravity of the situation.

“Shang Ye didn’t tell me,” Shang Jue admitted, closing his eyes. “I won’t interfere in Shang’s affairs—including your father’s.”

“I won’t intervene in Xu Rong’s matters anymore either,” Shang Jue continued. “Shang Wei is your father. Family disgrace shouldn’t be aired in public. You should keep this matter quiet.”

“I’ll handle Shang Wei’s affairs.” Too tired to waste more words on the old fool, Shang Xuci replied perfunctorily, then stood up. “Take care of your health.”

He had never expected anything from Shang Jue.

From the moment he received Xu Rong’s call, he had known she would turn to the old man for help, at the very least to secure a large sum of money and flee abroad. He thought she would be satisfied with that chance to escape.

But she had overlooked one thing: her son Shang Yi was in his hands. Shang Xuci was deliberately using Shang Yi as bait to draw out both Xu Rong and Du Guan—so he could catch them in one sweep.

Now, all he had to do was wait patiently for the trap to spring shut.

By the time he finished his conversation with Shang Jue, it was already half past ten. The housekeeper urged him to rest, but Shang Xuci flatly refused.

He was no longer alone. Someone was waiting for him at home.

Thinking of Jian Xun, Shang Xuci’s heart settled, and a rare sense of ease washed over him.

He picked up his phone and sent Jian Xun a message.

Jian Xun replied: [Have you eaten yet?]

Shang Xuci: [No.]

Jian Xun: [I’ll cook for you!]

He finished his last game, then went downstairs to make fried rice.

When the fragrant rice was done, he covered the pot with a lid, left the kitchen, and sat on the sofa in the living room to wait.

The doorknob turned, and the cat’s ears twitched. Jian Xun quickly tucked his tail into his pants and fixed his gaze on the door.

“Sui Sui?” Shang Xuci’s voice carried into the room as the door opened. He removed his cashmere coat, his leather shoes clicking crisply against the polished wooden floor of the entryway. Bending to change his shoes, he straightened his back again.

Jian Xun’s eyes lit up, and he leapt into Shang Xuci’s arms. “You’re back.”

Shang Xuci held him close for a moment before Jian Xun took his hand and served him rice.

Sitting beside him, Shang Xuci ladled himself a bowl. “You haven’t eaten either?”

“Of course not,” Jian Xun said matter-of-factly. “I was waiting for you so we could eat together.”

“Try it! I learned how to make fried rice from Uncle Zhao. It smells the best right out of the wok.”

Shang Xuci smiled. “Okay.”

After the meal, Jian Xun hurried to wash the dishes, leaving Shang Xuci to shower first. Although Shang Xuci hadn’t told him what had happened at the Shang residence, Jian Xun knew it wasn’t good—the boss looked tired when he returned.

When Shang Xuci came out of the shower, a large white cat was squatting at the door.

“Sui Sui, you turned back into a cat again?”

“Meow!” The big white cat stretched out its front paws and tugged at his bathrobe.

In the bedroom, Shang Xuci dried his hair while watching the cat. When he finished, he used a wet wipe to clean the cat’s face and paws. The cat closed its eyes, enjoying the care, until he gave its rear a pat to signal he was done. Then the cat hopped off his lap and bounded onto the bed, motioning for him to lie down.

“Want me to sleep like a cat tonight?” Shang Xuci asked, sitting on the edge of the bed.

The big white cat padded over, flexed its paws, and pressed them against his stomach, urging him to lie down.

The man didn’t quite understand. As they lay down together, he pulled the cat into his arms and sank into bed.

The cat nestled against his chest, kneading with its soft white paws. Its movements were firm yet gentle. It lifted its rear, tail straight like an antenna, while a deep purr rumbled in its throat.

It even tilted its head toward Shang Xuci, ears perked, hoping he would pinch them like he usually did.

That was when Shang Xuci realized—Sui Sui was giving him a massage.

He relaxed, letting the cat press down from his chest to his shoulders with practiced rhythm. The only drawback was that the cat was heavier than before, its entire body weighing on him, making his skin itch with each shift.

Jian Xun pressed carefully, not missing a single spot. With each push, his force was measured and steady.

The cat’s tail brushed faintly against Shang Xuci’s waist. His breathing slowed, eyes closing in a quiet endurance.

Just when he thought it was nearly over, Sui Sui suddenly extended a paw—pressing directly against Shang Xuci’s vitals through the fabric of his pants, steady and precise.

Shang Xuci’s breath caught.

---

Shang Xuci smiled, not exposing him. “Yeah, I know.”

Seeing Jian Xun’s embarrassment, Shang Xuci lied without blinking. “The bed’s a little cold. Do you want to put on your pajamas?”

“Yeah.” Jian Xun stretched out one leg, hooked his clothes with it, tugged them under the covers, and dressed himself.

After putting on his clothes, he lay flat and still, not daring to move.

He didn’t dare sleep next to Shang Xuci. Even with just a few inches between them, he could feel the warmth radiating from her body. His own body soon grew scorching hot.

Jian Xun touched his burning cat ears and closed his eyes.

I should have known better.

…

In the morning, Shang Xuci opened his eyes to see a pair of furry cat ears. The two were very close. Jian Xun was lying on his side, fully dressed. Shang Xuci could clearly see the faint blush on his cheeks, the trembling of his eyelashes, and the loose strands of hair covering his other eye. His breathing was steady—he slept soundly.

Shang Xuci stared at him intently for a long moment, then checked his phone for the time. Unable to bear getting up, he carefully moved his arm to take a picture of Jian Xun, watching the boy’s carefree sleeping face.

The sky over City A was hazy.

On the way out, Jian Xun sneezed several times. Looking at the smoggy sky, he muttered, “Won’t breathing this kind of air for a few years shorten my lifespan?”

Shang Xuci handed him a white mask. “Put it on.”

Jian Xun obediently put it on. His face was small, and the mask covered most of it.

Shang Xuci drove while Jian Xun sat in the passenger seat. They parked downstairs at the company building, Jian Xun following closely behind him.

Jian Xun glanced at the time. His expression shifted slightly, and his pace quickened.

Shang Xuci grabbed him. “What’s the rush?”

“It’s the last day of the month for perfect attendance. I’m almost late!” Jian Xun said sternly.

Then he shot Shang Xuci a look of accusation. If he hadn’t woken up late that morning—and insisted on petting cats—he wouldn’t have left home later than usual.

Jian Xun rushed to the staff elevator, where he ran into Fu Qian.

The moment Jian Xun entered, a faint scent of snowy mountain pine reached Fu Qian’s nose. He glanced at Jian Xun and noticed he was wearing Shang Xuci’s clothes.

Although they were Shang Xuci’s school clothes, Fu Qian’s sharp eyes recognized them instantly.

Jian Xun spotted Fu Qian and greeted him. “Good morning.”

“Good morning. You’re not with Shang Xuci today?”

“Yes,” Jian Xun said, remembering to clock in. As soon as the elevator opened, he rushed out.

After getting ready for work, Jian Xun saw Fu Qian enter Shang Xuci’s office. He hung his mask on the cabinet.

The women in the office were discussing job titles. Jian Xun joined in, watching everyone talk about improving their skills. He suddenly felt that his own work was pointless.

The problem was that Shang Xuci had more than one assistant. Jian Xun’s daily tasks mostly consisted of odd jobs, and he wanted to improve his skills rather than rely on Shang Xuci for the rest of his life.

The female colleagues noticed his distress and offered suggestions.

Some asked, since Jian Xun was so good-looking, hadn’t he considered entering the entertainment industry? After all, Mr. Shang owned an entertainment company that trained artists, and Jian Xun’s style was very popular. He would definitely appeal to the audience.

Others suggested that Jian Xun pursue something he genuinely enjoyed or was good at.

Jian Xun thought carefully and decided he had no intention of entering the entertainment industry for the time being. While filming a cat-themed movie, he had experienced firsthand how difficult acting was. It required real skill, and he didn’t think he had much talent for it.

As for hobbies—

He enjoyed cooking, but only for Shang Xuci. He had never considered becoming a chef or cooking for others.

The rest was just gaming.

To be honest, Jian Xun considered himself a decent player. His strengths were his hand speed and quick reflexes. He could even spend an entire afternoon just watching others play.

Perhaps he could try becoming a game streamer?

Jian Xun planned to bring it up with Shang Xuci later; he might be able to give him better advice.

…

At noon, Jian Xun went to Shang Xuci’s office with his lunch box.

“We’ve found Du Guan’s tracks.”

Shang Xuci spoke in a deep voice. “Find an opportunity to capture him. Then proceed with the process.”

Du Guan?

Jian Xun froze when he heard the name at the door. Wasn’t that the villain who was supposed to appear later in the series? How could he show up so soon?

“Mr. Shang also knows about this accident, as well as Shang Wei’s illness,” Fu Qian said after a pause. “Xu Rong wants to distance herself from the matter, using Shang Yi as a scapegoat while acting pitiful. She cries in front of Mr. Shang every day.”

Fu Qian continued, “Because of Shang Yi’s incident, Shang Ye was fired from Shang Group headquarters by Mr. Shang.

“It seems Mr. Shang wants to hand the company over to you.”

Shang Xuci replied, “Even if he doesn’t, Shang Group is mine.”

His trip to Country M had secured a deal, and he now held the shares—including Shang Wei’s. He had the final say in Shang Group, and not even Shang Jue could overturn his decisions.

“What about Xu Rong…”

Shang Xuci said calmly, “I’ll handle it personally.”

“Thank you for your hard work.” Shang Xuci looked up at Fu Qian. “Once this matter is settled, I’ll give you a long vacation.”

In his previous life, Shang Xuci had been somewhat extreme. Ever since he became disabled, he had grown paranoid and distrustful of everyone. Even though Fu Qian had been fostered and promoted by his grandfather, and even though he had known him since childhood, Shang Xuci still wouldn’t open up to him.

Yet he knew Fu Qian had sacrificed so much for his grandfather and for the New Domain, and had never once betrayed him until the day he died. So after regaining his memories in this life, he immediately brought Fu Qian to his side and treated him as a close confidant.

Shang Xuci was grateful for everything Fu Qian had done for him. In return, he gave him nothing but generous compensation and the best treatment.

“Xinyu will rely on you even more in the future.”

It was a simple statement, but this time, Fu Qian sensed a different weight behind it. A vague feeling stirred in him, and his brows furrowed slightly.

Fu Qian had grown up in a remote mountainous area. Despite his fierce appearance, he had always possessed a kind heart.

As a child, he had struggled with poor grades, and his parents had little faith in him. With both older and younger siblings in the family, their limited finances went to supporting the most promising students.

Just when he was about to drop out of school, he met Shen Tianlei, who was doing charity work at the time. Fu Qian seized the opportunity, and Shen Tianlei sponsored his education. After graduating from university, he joined Shen Tianlei’s company and worked at his side.

It could be said that without Mr. Shen, there would be no Fu Qian today.

And now, that person was Shang Xuci.

Fu Qian turned to open the door and saw Jian Xun standing there with a lunch box. He gave him a nod.

Jian Xun closed the door and looked at Shang Xuci worriedly. “How are you going to deal with them?”

Seeing his concern, Shang Xuci took the lunch boxes from his hands, then took Jian Xun’s hand and led him toward the restaurant.

“Don’t worry. I’m different from them—I wouldn’t do anything illegal,” Shang Xuci said slowly. “There will be legal procedures to punish them.”

The nightmare Jian Xun had once told him about flashed through his mind. Shang Xuci squeezed his hand, speaking both to Jian Xun and perhaps to himself: “I will cherish every day of my life.”

Jian Xun let out a deep breath, feeling reassured.

He squeezed Shang Xuci’s hand in return and asked, “Are we going to the restaurant instead of the lounge?”

“We’ll go to the restaurant from now on.” Shang Xuci’s lips curved slightly.

Before, he had worried that Jian Xun would be shy, that he might overthink some idle gossip.

Now that they had spoken openly, as a serious couple, they naturally had to eat in the restaurant like everyone else.

It was lunchtime. Shang Xuci accompanied him in the staff elevator. When they entered, the elevator was already crowded with employees. Jian Xun noticed their surprised expressions as they all greeted Shang Xuci. Their intense gazes followed them until they stepped out. Only then did Jian Xun break free from his hand and shove it into his pocket.

Shang Xuci lowered his gaze, catching a glimpse of the burning tips of his ears—but he didn’t force it.

The two chose an inconspicuous corner for lunch, but Jian Xun was still keenly aware of the people around them whispering about him and Shang Xuci.

Looking around, he noticed that everyone else carried cafeteria plates, making their lunch boxes stand out awkwardly.

“That’s weird,” Jian Xun said. “Next time, let’s eat in the lounge or just get cafeteria food.”

That way, they wouldn’t have to bring their own meals.

And every day after work, they could still go home to Uncle Zhao’s cooking. The thought alone made him happy.

Shang Xuci said dotingly, “It’s all up to you.”

After lunch, Jian Xun diligently climbed onto the bed to make the sheets.

Unlike before, when he had been more reserved, Jian Xun now relaxed—sprawled out on the soft bed, playing on his phone.

Then he saw the company group chat buzzing with lively conversation—about him and Shang Xuci.

Someone tagged a female colleague close to him, asking her to find out whether Jian Xun planned to make the relationship public.

Jian Xun scrolled through the comments and found a flood of brazen remarks about the couple, even mentioning a drawing he had made earlier while visiting the business conference room at noon. His face slowly turned red.

Bang!

His cat ears suddenly popped up.

Jian Xun hesitated, wondering if he should remind them that he was also in the group chat…

Suddenly, a photo appeared.

The director typed: [Who hung their underwear outside the changing room? This is the company—how can such a thing be allowed?]

Jian Xun also thought it was outrageous. But upon closer inspection, he realized—it was his own locker.

He hadn’t had much contact with this director before. He only remembered him as a kindly man with thick glasses, poor vision, and poor facial recognition skills.

Frantically examining the picture, Jian Xun confirmed that the item in question really was his. He quickly tagged the director to explain: [This is my mask, not underwear.]

He added a finger-pointing emoji for emphasis.

The director’s misstep—and Jian Xun’s appearance in the chat—startled everyone. The group leader had almost forgotten that he was even in the group.

The director hurriedly wiped his glasses, put them back on, and craned his neck to peer into the dressing room across the way.

It was indeed a mask.

He then sent an emoji of himself shaking hands with Jian Xun, joking: [Looks like I need another pair of glasses.]

With that, he quietly exited the group chat.

The others immediately asked Jian Xun if he had seen their chat history.

Jian Xun nodded obediently.

Then, seizing the chance, someone else began questioning him.

At that moment, Jian Xun felt two gentle pats on his butt. He turned around to see Shang Xuci, then quickly rolled into the bed to make room for him.

When he set his phone alarm, he noticed the group chat buzzing. Curious, Jian Xun scrolled up and saw that Shang Xuci had sent a message:

[He’s shy, don’t tease him.]

Below, the chat was filled with people kneeling in reply.

Love Cake: [Okay, Boss.]

Crazy Monday: [Okay, Boss.]

Star: [Okay, Boss.]

[Please help keep an eye on Jian Xun. Please help yourself to the food at Suffuse.]

Blue Sky: [Okay, thank you, Boss.]

Puff: [Okay, thank you, Boss.]

Eat Dirt: [Okay, thank you, Boss.]

There were also many well-wishes that followed.

…

Shang Xuci turned to look at Jian Xun, who was sprawled across the bed with his head buried under the blanket, his cat ears drooping at his sides.

Shang Xuci patted his head. “Sleep.”

---

Jian Xun rested his chin on Shang Xuci’s shoulder, seizing the opportunity to finish his story.

“I didn’t mean to cause you any trouble abroad,” Jian Xun confessed honestly. “I had a nightmare about you getting into danger, and I was worried, so I followed you. You won’t blame me, will you?”

“I don’t blame you,” Shang Xuci said. “But you have to tell me the truth. Will you leave like you did before?”

Shang Xuci didn’t believe that Jian Xun had known he was in danger simply because of a dream. It was as if he already knew many things in advance. If Shang Xuci hadn’t been reborn, he wouldn’t have suspected so much. Illness and death were too heavy a topic—he didn’t want to reopen old wounds. But he knew Jian Xun had secrets, and he wanted him to speak.

Hadn’t he already confessed part of it?

Still, what Shang Xuci wanted most was a promise: that Jian Xun wouldn’t leave him again. After this incident, he could no longer bear it.

Jian Xun lowered his head, lost in thought. He grasped Shang Xuci’s shoulders, then summoned the courage to meet his gaze. But the heat in those deep eyes made him shudder, and he quickly lowered his lashes. His voice softened.

“If you don’t chase me away, I certainly won’t leave…”

Hearing his response, Shang Xuci’s hand gradually loosened at his side. The veins that had stood out from his clenched fist slowly faded. A heavy weight finally lifted from his heart, and he smiled with quiet satisfaction.

“There will never be that if.”

Jian Xun let out a soft hum. “Hmph, who knows? What if I meet someone I like in the future—someone like Miss Meng, who’s allergic to cats?”

He couldn’t help but voice his thoughts.

Shang Xuci, recalling the conversations Jian Xun had once had with Xu Tutu, answered without hesitation.

“No.”

Jian Xun didn’t believe him.

Shang Xuci went on, “I already have someone I like. He’s not allergic to cats—on the contrary, he loves them.” His eyes fixed on Jian Xun, watching every flicker of his expression.

At those words, Jian Xun froze as though the world had collapsed onto him, stunned and at a loss.

Who?!

Shang Xuci has someone he likes—how could he not know?!

Not allergic to cats… so Meng Jingxue was out of the question. But Jian Xun had been with Shang Xuci all this time, and he hadn’t seen him close to any other woman.

Could it be… that it happened while he was away?

Jian Xun’s nose tingled with a sudden sourness. His heart pounded, and his voice came out muffled as he asked,

“Who?”

Seeing him so dejected, Shang Xuci raised the corners of his mouth and said slowly, “Jian Xun.”

For a moment, Jian Xun’s mind went completely blank.

Shang Xuci’s deep voice was so close.

“Do you like me?”

Jian Xun had no idea what kind of like he meant, but he answered without hesitation.

“Yes.”

The cat ears on his head twitched, a little itchy. After speaking, he took the initiative to hug Shang Xuci’s arm and snuggle against him. Looking up with shining eyes, he declared, “I love you the most!”

Shang Xuci’s heart suddenly tightened. He raised his hand to touch Jian Xun’s face, his cold fingertips sliding gradually down to his rosy lips, caressing the corners of his mouth. A warm breath enveloped Jian Xun’s whole body.

A gentle kiss fell on Jian Xun’s lips.

Jian Xun’s eyes widened in disbelief. His mind went blank, his head felt weak, and his face—just moments ago calm—flushed rapidly. His heartbeat was no longer just a simple thump; the excitement filled his mind, and he felt a suffocating hunger, like he was starving.

He stared blankly at Shang Xuci, unconsciously licking his lips.

That small movement instantly snapped the strings of Shang Xuci’s restraint. He reached out, grasped Jian Xun’s chin, and in the next moment, kissed him again.

At first, Shang Xuci lingered only at his lips, teasingly licking them. Seeing no resistance, he pressed Jian Xun’s chin down, pried his mouth open, and thrust his tongue inside. Their lips meshed together, savoring every trace of his taste…

Jian Xun grew dizzy from the kiss, disoriented, his hands clutching tightly at Shang Xuci’s clothes.

Shang Xuci’s movements began to lose control. No longer content with a one-sided kiss, he bit at Jian Xun’s lips, sucking hard.

Jian Xun’s heart raced wildly. It was an experience he had never known before—fresh, overwhelming. A mixture of anticipation, confusion, curiosity, and fear surged through him, and yet, instinctively, he wanted to chase after it.

Gradually, Jian Xun’s breath grew short under the kiss, and he began to pull away. Shang Xuci seized his wrist, pushed him down onto the bed, and continued kissing him.

Their breathing grew ragged. Jian Xun felt dizzy, his body tingling and weak, without the strength to resist or even form a sound. Soon, he began to struggle.

Realizing he was suffocating, Shang Xuci reluctantly let him go.

He pinched Jian Xun’s soft cheek, watching his teary, glistening eyes. Pressing his tongue lightly against his own lips as if to savor the lingering taste, he looked down at Jian Xun and asked in a hoarse voice, “Even like this, do you still like it?”

Jian Xun’s whole body felt hot. His cheek, held in Shang Xuci’s hand, burned unbearably. His gaze flickered, unsettled. Only then did he begin to understand what Shang Xuci truly meant by like.

He pressed his hands weakly against Shang Xuci’s chest, trying to push him away. But the moment he moved, Shang Xuci pulled him back.

“Let me go first.” Jian Xun raised his hand to push again, his fair, smooth arms trembling faintly.

Shang Xuci’s gaze shifted slightly, though his body remained as steady as a statue.

“Answer me first.”

Jian Xun closed his eyes and whispered, “I like you.”

Then, tilting his chin up, he added firmly, “But you can’t push me like this.”

“I just don’t want you to run away.” Shang Xuci released his hand at once, instead gently caressing him. “What if you turn me into a cat again?”

Jian Xun angrily burrowed under the quilt and muttered, “No way.”

But hearing Shang Xuci say he liked him—that it was love, the kind between man and woman—filled him with joy.

“Then we can’t bring up the past.”

“Yeah.” Shang Xuci stroked the top of his head. “From now on, you can do whatever you want.”

Jian Xun nudged the quilt aside and said, “I want to change clothes and take a shower. You go out first. And I want to eat the fish Uncle Zhao cooked.”

Normally, he had to sneak around to eat Uncle Zhao’s food. But now that he was officially staying with Shang Xuci, he could ask openly—and he had been craving it for a long time.

“I’ll have him make it.”

Shang Xuci left the room. Jian Xun threw off the quilt and began searching for clothes to wear into the shower.

Hearing the water start to run in the bathroom, Shang Xuci turned his attention to his vibrating phone.

“Mr. Shang, they’ve all confessed and are willing to testify against their employer.”

“Very good. I understand. Keep a close watch on them.”

Fu Qian, who had stayed abroad to handle the matter, stood beside the bed, glancing at the man lying motionless. He continued, “I’m with Shang Yi now. The doctor says he’s out of danger, but his leg can’t be saved. Surgery is needed as soon as possible, and the family must sign a consent form. Should we inform Xu Rong about this?”

“No. Just send Shang Ye directly.”

“Okay.”

After Fu Qian finished reporting the situation, he couldn’t help but ask, “Is Sui Sui okay?”

The kitten must have been terrified that day. He didn’t know how it ended up abroad, but it had nearly died saving Mr. Shang. Now, surely, it must be treated like a treasure.

Shang Xuci glanced toward the bathroom.

“He’s fine now.”

After Fu Qian hung up, Xu Rong’s number began flashing across the screen, her calls coming one after another. When Shang Xuci finally answered, her voice was hysterical, dripping with hatred.

“Shang Xuci, how can you be so vicious! You actually attacked your own brother! He was innocent from the beginning—how could you have the guts to do that! You devil, come at me if you dare!!”

“Vicious? I return that to you,” Shang Xuci said coldly. “You reap what you sow.”

He had no feelings for Shang Yi, nor had he intended to harm him. It was the Shang family who had chosen to gather those people, and he didn’t care why they’d chosen Shang Yi.

“What do you mean?” Xu Rong demanded, her breathing ragged.

In a rare display of patience, Shang Xuci replied, “He got into trouble because of you.”

“If I had really been in their car, I’d be lying in the hospital right now.” Shang Xuci spoke each word with such force that the woman on the other end nearly collapsed.

Xu Rong’s fingers turned white around her phone. Her heart pounded violently. Did Shang Xuci know everything?

“Xu Rong, God sees what you do. Shang Yi’s current situation is your fault. If you hadn’t wanted me dead, none of this would have happened.”

A dark thought flickered across Shang Xuci’s mind. Shang Yi was lucky—at least his life had been saved. If he had died, what kind of expression would Xu Rong have worn then?

But since she loved Shang Yi so deeply, she would be devastated if he became disabled.

The woman cursed and sobbed into the phone. Shang Xuci’s voice remained icy.

“It’s too early to cry. Save your tears for your father. After all, he won’t escape the charge of intentional homicide.”

A long silence followed on the other end.

Click.

The bathroom door opened.

Shang Xuci’s goal of provoking Xu Rong had been achieved; soon, the truth would be exposed. He didn’t care to say any more. He hung up the phone and draped a towel over Jian Xun’s head.

“Who were you talking to on the phone just now?” Jian Xun asked.

“Xu Rong.” Shang Xuci didn’t hide anything as he wiped Jian Xun’s head with a towel. “This accident was planned by her and her father. We have all the evidence—both physical and testimonial. Now all that’s left is to arrest the perpetrators.”

“Oh, that’s good.” Jian Xun nodded. The plot change had already reached ninety-five percent, almost complete. There were no more crises left—except for the lingering question of whether the old man would reappear and take him away.

But Jian Xun wasn’t too worried. After all, the old man had promised to grant him a wish once the mission was complete. He could simply wish to stay. There was nothing worth lingering for in that other world anyway.

Shang Xuci had no idea that Jian Xun had just made a very important decision.

Obediently, Jian Xun let Shang Xuci wipe and blow-dry his hair.

At last, he enjoyed the whole fish feast prepared by Uncle Zhao. Eating and drinking to his heart’s content, he leaned back with his eyes closed, rubbing his belly.

“You’ll live here from now on.”

“But Brother Tutu’s leg isn’t healed yet,” Jian Xun said, opening his eyes. “I want to wait until he’s better before moving back in.”

“You can invite him to live here with you.” Shang Xuci’s manor villa had more than enough room, and with their current relationship, the suggestion wasn’t difficult to make.

“I’ll ask Brother Tutu.”

That evening.

Jian Xun changed into clean pajamas and went to the study.

Shang Xuci was still busy handling Shang Jia’s affairs. After the accident that day, he had postponed his appointment. Fortunately, with Xu Huai’s help, the contract had finally been settled—the other party agreed to purchase Yuanqu, debts included.

Shang Xuci had also obtained information on Du Guan. Reading carefully through one section, he was surprised to find that the man had ties with Shang Jia. No wonder he had used Xu Rong to target the Shang family.

Jian Xun sat beside him with a tablet. Resting his head on his folded arms, he stared intently at the screen.

Seeing him slumped over like a boneless heap, Shang Xuci frowned.

“Sui Sui, sit up straight. It’s bad for your eyes.”

Jian Xun ignored him and glanced sideways.

“Shang Shang, do you have headphones?”

He remembered how Maomao used to watch the tablet, and Maomao would complain about the volume being too loud. He thought Shang Xuci’s words just now had been a subtle reminder.

Shang Xuci raised an eyebrow and handed him his Bluetooth headphones.

When Jian Xun mentioned the earphone incident, Shang Xuci’s heart stirred.

“You remember?”

“Of course I do. I remember every moment we spent together.” Jian Xun yawned, then asked eagerly, “Tonight, do you want Sui Sui to sleep with you—or Jian Xun?”

He blinked playfully and added, “It’s free.”

Shang Xuci knew the little guy was teasing. He glanced at the time and answered calmly, “Sui Sui.”

Jian Xun: “?”

So… is his sweet-smelling little cat no match for a meowing one?

Ten o’clock in the evening.

Jian Xun’s transformation into a cat never lasted long. The warmth clinging to his ears sent a shiver through his body, and a few seconds later, a naked young man emerged from beneath the blankets, his cheeks flushed.

Shang Xuci’s hand brushed against smooth skin, and his heart stirred slightly as his gaze fell on the young man’s head.

The furry cat ears twitched.

Jian Xun, held tightly in his arms, had forgotten he wasn’t wearing any clothes after changing back from a cat into a human. When he realized, he froze, too nervous to move. Raising his head only made it worse—Shang Xuci’s steady gaze left him even more flustered, his breathing uneven.

After a long hesitation, he stammered a few words.

“I… I like sleeping naked.”

---

If he were in China, it wouldn’t be surprising for him to appear anywhere. Even sneaking into Shang Xuci’s car to go to the company would have been a reasonable explanation.

But for a cat to leave the country under strict customs regulations—unless the owner had checked in their pet for international transport—it was impossible for a cat to sneak onto a plane, let alone appear in such a place.

The little cats all travel abroad with visas and fly properly. Their presence here was indeed suspicious.

The cat remained motionless for a long time, its long legs stretched out in the air, not daring to move. Its mouth hung open, eyes darting around, as if it were pondering a strategy.

A flight attendant came over to pour Shang Xuci a drink. Noticing the cat, her eyes lit up and she smiled. “Your cat is so cute.”

Jian Xun finally realized.

Yes, he was a cat now.

All he could do was meow.

How could he confess honestly?

The big white cat, feeling guilty, didn’t dare look at anyone. It rolled over and pretended not to understand.

Shang Xuci watched his reaction and lowered his eyes, deciding he’d settle the score once they got home.

Cats can’t speak human language.

But Jian Xun always could.

He was just trying to trick him now.

…

Three o’clock in the afternoon.

Ludao Garden.

Shang Xuci had just stepped into the living room when the housekeeper came over and said, “Sir, the Shang family has called you several times.”

Shang Xuci replied coldly, “Don’t answer. I’m not seeing any guests this weekend.”

Chef Zhao had just brought in some fresh ingredients. Seeing Shang Xuci, he smiled and asked, “Mr. Shang, you’re back? Shall I start cooking now?”

Aside from breakfast, Shang Xuci hadn’t enjoyed any of the food on the plane. He had kept an eye on the cat the whole time. The doctor had said it was just tired and needed a nap, but it had slept all day and night. Shang Xuci was still worried.

After hearing Uncle Zhao’s words, he felt hungry and nodded. “Make something light.”

“Okay.”

Shang Xuci set the cat down in the living room and went back to the bedroom.

The cat didn’t follow. Instead, he walked up to the housekeeper, tucked his four legs neatly together, sat upright, and meowed with his head lifted.

The housekeeper understood right away, quickly taking out Sui Sui’s bowl and filling it with food.

The cat began to nibble intently.

By the time Shang Xuci came down to eat, the big white cat had already groomed himself clean and was staring at the tempting aroma drifting from the dining table.

The cat’s pink nose twitched nonstop, and a rich fragrance spread through the room like an explosion. Drawn to the scent, Jian Xun leapt onto a chair, sniffing around in search of its source.

So good.

It was coming from a wine bottle. The big white cat glanced at Shang Xuci, who was quietly eating beside him, then turned his eyes back to the bottle, his mind stirring with mischief.

He wanted to lick it too.

To his surprise, Shang Xuci didn’t stop him.

The cat reached out and hooked the bottle. It was heavy and wobbly, and he didn’t dare try again. Turning his attention to the wine glass beside Shang Xuci, the cat stood up, bracing his front paws on the table. Shuffling his paws and backside closer, his plump body tilted to the side until his paw “accidentally” tapped the glass.

Liquid splashed onto the table. The big white cat darted forward and licked it up.

Sweet.

And a little spicy.

It even gave him the illusion of catnip.

“Like it?” Shang Xuci pushed the glass toward the cat.

The cat lowered his head and lapped at it eagerly.

Ton, ton, ton.

Halfway through, he grew dizzy, his vision doubling. He tumbled down onto all fours, nearly rolling onto his back.

Luckily, a blanket was spread across the floor. The cat scrambled to adjust himself, swaying unsteadily. In Shang Xuci’s eyes, he looked unbearably cute, and a soft laugh escaped him. The cat, thinking he was being mocked, stood up on his hind legs in protest—but toppled over to the side anyway.

After a clumsy round of drunken antics, the cat gave up and sprawled across the floor.

…

Night fell.

On the bed lay a boy in loose sleepwear, the neckline unbuttoned to reveal his delicate collarbone and pale skin. His cheeks were flushed, his eyelashes quivered faintly, and his eyes moved restlessly beneath closed lids, as if he might wake at any moment.

Shang Xuci sat at the edge of the bed, his gaze deep and fixed firmly on the boy.

“Shang Shang…” the boy murmured in his sleep, trapped once more in a nightmare. Startled, he opened his eyes wide.

A figure sat by the bed, watching him intently. Jian Xun froze and stammered, “Shang… Boss.”

Shang Xuci spoke slowly. “Your ears.”

Jian Xun tilted his head. What was wrong with his ears?

He reached for his ears, his expression nonchalant—until a pair of cool hands touched his head, sending a tingling, electric-like shiver down to his feet.

Jian Xun finally understood which ears he meant.

Shang Xuci pinched his furry cat ears, a sensation both itchy and strangely pleasurable.

Jian Xun swallowed, at a loss for how to explain.

“Where’s the tail?” Shang Xuci’s long, narrow eyes narrowed further, his gaze fixed on the quilt.

Jian Xun: “?”

Belatedly realizing he’d been exposed, Jian Xun clutched his head and ears, his body stiff, his round eyes staring at Shang Xuci in shock. Panic surged the next moment—how could he explain this?

He’d hidden it so well. How had it been discovered?!

Real alcohol ruined everything.

Jian Xun carefully studied Shang Xuci’s expression. Seeing no surprise or disgust, his mind raced.

“Jian Xun is Sui Sui,” Shang Xuci spoke first. “How long were you planning to keep this secret from me?”

“I wasn’t trying to hide it from you.” Jian Xun lowered his head, not daring to meet his eyes.

Shang Xuci pressed his thin lips together, clearly unconvinced.

Jian Xun lifted his gaze, his round eyes locking onto him. When he saw a flicker of disappointment in Shang Xuci’s eyes, his heart lurched.

He immediately threw back the covers, revealed the cat’s tail, and stammered, “Tail… you can touch it.” Please don’t be angry.

Shang Xuci’s hand rested on the large, fluffy tail, though he didn’t move. As Jian Xun leaned in closer, a refreshing fragrance mingled with the faint scent of wine.

The room faced the sun and stood by a window. The afterglow of sunset cast a fairytale-like dream. Fiery crimson, veiled in a golden haze, painted half the sky beyond the window.

Jian Xun bent forward, instinctively reaching out to hook his hand. Bathed entirely in sunset glow, his pale skin gleamed with a soft golden tint, highlighting the shimmer of his golden hair. His lips glowed a vibrant, tempting red.

On black sheets, his unbuttoned white shirt revealed glimpses of skin. The boy looked like a pure white rose swaying in a dim dream. Yet this rose was in full bloom, waiting to be plucked.

His body leaned against Shang Xuci’s, his neck exposed, a faint red mole resting there—quietly exuding endless allure.

Shang Xuci’s gaze fixed on the mole, his breath turning heavy. He restrained himself, pushed Jian Xun away, and abruptly stood.

Jian Xun thought he was angry, about to leave. Panic flashed across his face, and he cried out desperately, “Listen to me! I didn’t mean to hide this from you.”

Shang Xuci stood tall and slender, his handsome features sharp. His downcast eyes carried a cold, oppressive weight as he looked down.

Jian Xun felt a strange unease, as if Shang Xuci would truly turn away unless he explained everything clearly.

“Don’t be angry.” Jian Xun watched him closely. Shang Xuci leaned against the wall, legs crossed, head bowed. “Whatever you want to know, I’ll tell you.”

Shang Xuci had many questions, but the first words that finally came out were, “Why did you run away from home in the first place?”

Sui Sui’s disappearance had been a heavy blow to Shang Xuci; even now he feared Jian Xun might leave him again. At the very least, he needed to know the reason.

At that, Jian Xun looked up immediately, his voice full of grievance. “Because of you.”

Shang Xuci frowned, fingers clenching. Of course — it was because of him.

“We nearly died at sea and finally washed ashore. You were unconscious; my clansmen found you,” Jian Xun said. “When you recovered, I planned to repay you.”

“Repay?”

“Yes.”

Jian Xun briefly recounted the whole incident, his face wounded and indignant, as if to say, Look — I almost became someone’s son-in-law for you.

Shang Xuci stared at him, his dark eyes deep and intent, drawing Jian Xun in. Jian Xun’s heart skipped. “I left a note. I said I’d come back for you.”

Recalling how distant he’d been after they met, Jian Xun began to clear the air. “I don’t like owing people, so I followed the cat tribe to meet their leader. After I repaid what I owed, I couldn’t turn back into a cat. I didn’t know how you felt about the cat people, so I stayed with Brother Tutu for a while.”

“You turned out not to like cats. I thought you didn’t want to—” Shang Xuci cut in quickly. “I’m sorry.”

He stepped forward and held Jian Xun gently, his voice muffled against him. “I won’t abandon you.”

He was the one terrified of being abandoned.

“Are you afraid?” Jian Xun slipped his thin arms around Shang Xuci’s waist and buried his face in his chest. He whispered, “Your cat will turn back into a human.”

Shang Xuci shook his head and smiled faintly. “How could that be?”

“Have you always been a cat?” It wasn’t Shang Xuci’s fault; Jian Xun simply gave him an unusual, unsettling feeling. The change from cat to human was enormous.

“I used to be human,” Jian Xun whispered. “When I died, I became a cat.”

Shang Xuci’s pupils narrowed; he clenched his fingers but kept his voice gentle. “Is your real name Jian Xun?”

Jian Xun nodded obediently.

Shang Xuci inhaled slowly and asked, “How old are you?”

“Do you mean in human years?” Jian Xun said. “I only just became an adult.”

Before Shang Xuci could ask more, Jian Xun took the initiative. “I fell ill right after my college entrance results came out.” Then, in a single sentence that made the room colder: “I died that night.”

“Did it hurt?”

Jian Xun shook his head. “I don’t remember.”

“After I became a cat, you were the first to feed me,” Jian Xun said softly. “At that time, I only hoped you would take me in.”

Shang Xuci also recalled the first time he had seen the cat. At that time, he’d been in a terrible state and mood, and feeding the cat had been nothing more than a spur-of-the-moment decision. Even after he gave in and brought it home, he still wanted to give it away.

Shang Xuci thought bitterly—he had been a complete jerk back then.

In truth, he felt that everything he had ever done for Jian Xun was far less than what Jian Xun had done for him, whether as a cat or as a human.

Jian Xun had given him his wholehearted devotion.

Shang Xuci leaned over and gently lifted Jian Xun’s chin. With a faint smile in his eyes, he said sincerely: “Thank you for coming to me.”

Jian Xun’s heart thudded violently. He held his breath, his lips parting slightly, trying to ease the tension in his chest. He was nearly breathless.

Lowering his head, Jian Xun felt Shang Xuci’s low, unhurried voice brush against his neck, warm breath grazing his skin. The scent that lingered around him seemed to envelop him from head to toe, making him inexplicably dizzy.

I never even knew how to sleep peacefully in someone’s arms before…

---

He couldn’t wait any longer.

“I’ll go with you,” Fu Qian said.

Shang Xuci turned to Xu Huai. “Please follow up on this matter first.”

Xu Huai nodded. “Don’t worry.”

About forty minutes later, Shang Xuci and his men arrived at the scene.

The surroundings were quiet and deserted.

The car was mangled from the collision, the asphalt littered with snow pears, scattered bullet casings, and a crushed walkie-talkie.

From the windows to the windshield to the hood, messy cat paw prints trailed across the surface.

Shang Xuci’s face was gloomy, his lips pressed tightly together. Without hesitation, he approached the car window and called out to Sui Sui.

Fu Qian shot a glance at the bodyguards behind him. One group blocked Shang Xuci’s way, while another fanned out to survey the area.

They were on a winding mountain path leading to V City, a forested road that was rarely traveled. But now, it was eerily silent.

A sudden gust of wind rustled the branches. Then, a flock of birds burst out of the woods ahead, wings flapping furiously as they let out sharp, rapid cries.

One bodyguard caught a faint sound beneath the noise—he instantly recognized it as the muffled shot of a wooden cannon.

“They’re ahead.”

Shang Xuci, disregarding the danger, pressed forward.

After the sniper eliminated the last enemy marksman with a single shot, a group of figures came into view. He reported to his captain with calm leisure.

The mercenary leader gestured to the bald man, who nodded and stepped forward with his equipment.

Shang Xuci’s first words upon seeing him were: “Where’s my cat?”

The bald man froze.

When he realized what Shang Xuci meant, his expression darkened and he lowered his head.

Shang Xuci stared at him, his heart sinking.

“Sorry, Boss,” the bald man said in broken Chinese. “The cat disappeared when the fighting started. It must have gotten scared and ran.”

Ran away?

Fu Qian subconsciously glanced at Shang Xuci. The man stood motionless, expression blank, his face pale and his breath shaky and uneven.

The mercenary captain drew back. Their goal had always been to protect Shang Xuci, and though they had succeeded, the situation remained unresolved.

“Boss, don’t worry. We’ve already sent a small team to search for the cat.” Although they had gained the upper hand in this battle and captured the enemy, the opposing force’s numbers were unknown, and they clearly knew the terrain better. The weather was turning grim, a storm brewing overhead—they had to withdraw.

The captain made his decision at once. “Retreat now.”

Shang Xuci checked Sui Sui’s GPS tracker. The little creature was still nearby, unmoving. He worried the cat might be injured.

He wanted to search immediately, but his instincts warned him not to linger. Just as he hesitated, a familiar meow rose from the bushes.

Shang Xuci instantly recognized Sui Sui’s voice. In the next moment, the white cat, like a flash of lightning, leapt into his arms.

As the car door shut, man and cat clung tightly to one another.

The large white cat wrapped its paws around his neck, purring softly. Shang Xuci could feel the rapid, nervous rhythm of its breathing.

He paid no mind to the stains the cat left on his white shirt. Carefully, he lifted one paw and examined Sui Sui’s body inch by inch. Aside from a ruffled mess of fur, there were no wounds. Relief washed over him.

“Why are you messing around like this…”

“Meow!” The cat pressed its head against his mouth, as if begging for mercy.

Shang Xuci’s heart softened. “Forget it. Let’s go back first.” They weren’t out of danger yet.

Freed from fear, the white cat purred even louder.

The crisis seemed averted—for now. Jian Xun watched the story unfold with satisfaction, only to be surprised when nothing changed.

Could there still be danger?

The cat’s drooping ears suddenly perked up. Its eyes widened, darting anxiously toward the window.

Meanwhile, the captain began reporting the situation.

Through the intercom, he confirmed the cars and their passengers. One car had been destroyed, and another had gone rogue—driving off without authorization.

“Driving off without permission?” Shang Xuci frowned, absently pinching Suisui’s paw pad.

A thought struck him. He quickly turned to Fu Qian. “Who is the other representative Shangjia sent?”

Fu Qian had noticed as well, though his focus had been fixed on Shang Xuci. Only now did he realize the full weight of it. After making a call to confirm, his expression stiffened. “It’s Shang Yi. He’s in the car we can’t reach.”

“Shang Yi? Why is he here?”

The deputy captain explained, “Once the battle started, he claimed to be your brother and insisted on riding in your car. He demanded the replacement vehicle. We couldn’t stop him in time… That car went out first as bait, but then we lost contact. We still don’t know what happened.”

Shang Xuci’s brows knitted. Before he could speak, Fu Qian cut in. “The person we sent earlier wasn’t Shang Yi.”

“I know. Back there—”

The prisoner in the front seat suddenly burst into wild laughter. He twisted around to glare at Shang Xuci and shouted, “You’re Shang Xuci, aren’t you? All that hard work finally paid off. Go to hell! Hahaha!”

The deputy captain in the passenger seat remained calm. “Ignore him. We checked him when he got in. He wasn’t carrying anything dangerous.”

But the captain’s expression darkened, his eyelids twitching. “Check again.”

“Yes, sir.”

The prisoner allowed the search with a grin, flashing his white teeth. He kept silent, his smug expression grating on everyone.

Jian Xun felt a wave of unease. In his mind, a red warning blared like a countdown.

Maomao’s head throbbed, his body tensed in alarm.

His instincts screamed the truth—this man was dangerous!

Sui Sui, The lion cat nestled in Shang Xuci’s arms, suddenly stood up. He hated himself for being just a speechless cat. All he could do was bite Shang Xuci’s clothes, tugging him toward the car door, meowing in panic.

The sudden movement jolted Shang Xuci’s senses. Sui Sui, who had been lying quietly in his arms since they got in the car, suddenly raised his voice and began meowing nonstop. He leapt onto the back seat, clawing at the window, his eyes wide with fear.

“Does the cat need to use the bathroom?”

The big white cat retorted with even more urgency. Meow, meow, meow!

“No…” Shang Xuci frowned. “Does Sui Sui want me to get out of the car?”

The big white cat’s meows softened.

Without another word, Shang Xuci ordered, “Pull over.”

They were still retreating when the driver asked uneasily, “Captain?”

The deputy captain finished searching and shook his head. But the captain, sharp-eyed, spotted a pattern on the prisoner’s chest and snapped decisively, “Pull over and get out, now!”

Normally it would have been humiliating to overreact—but there was no time for pride. The prisoner’s handcuffs were secured to the car, and the keys were likely in another vehicle. There was no room for hesitation.

One glance was enough. The deputy captain followed his superior’s gaze, saw the pattern, and his face went pale. Confirming the man’s identity, he cried out in horror, “Out! Get out now!”

They had run into a desperado.

The prisoner burst into laughter. “Too late!”

The captain signaled to the following cars to stay back and scatter.

A deafening blast shook the earth. The car exploded, a thick plume of smoke billowing outward, swallowing everything around it.

In the instant before the explosion, Shang Xuci felt the cat in his arms wriggle free like a loach. The next moment, as the blast erupted, something furry slammed against his back, a powerful force hurling him forward.

The big white cat was struck by flying shrapnel, its body flung aside like a severed kite.

The alarm in its mind went silent. Relaxing at last, the cat closed its eyes.

When Shang Xuci realized the cat had shielded his back, his heart nearly stopped. He turned and saw the snow-white fur gradually staining scarlet. The metallic scent of blood filled the air, suffocating him.

His pulse thundered in his ears.

Nearby, bodyguards lay sprawled, bleeding heavily. The survivors who had evaded the blast held their noses, warily scanning the smoke-filled surroundings.

Shang Xuci’s legs trembled from the shock, his ears ringing. His gaze locked on the cat slumped before him. The snow-white body was stiff and motionless.

His mind went blank, as if the explosion had shattered his very thoughts.

He wanted to reach out, to hold the cat—but he couldn’t move.

He heard someone calling his name, along with the sound of chaotic footsteps—distant, slow, almost unreal.

A full minute passed before Shang Xuci finally returned to reality. His heart began to beat again, heavy and sluggish. Fu Qian was beside him, anxiously calling his name. When Shang Xuci came to his senses, his parched lips formed only one word: “Cat.”

Fu Qian understood immediately. He hurried to pick up the cat, but when he saw its body covered in blood, he froze for a breath. His hands trembled as he checked for breathing.

It was faint—almost imperceptible.

Fu Qian gathered the cat into his arms and turned back to Shang Xuci. “It’s still alive.”

Someone helped Shang Xuci to his feet, and Fu Qian carefully let him touch the cat.

“Sui Sui…” Shang Xuci whispered.

The big white cat’s ears twitched. With effort, it cracked open its beautiful azure eyes. Trembling, it stretched out its front paws and pressed them gently against the man’s face, as if to comfort him.

“Mia~” The faint mewl was barely audible.

Fu Qian quickly placed the cat back into Shang Xuci’s arms. Looking up, he caught sight of a tear sliding down the corner of the man’s eye.

Shang Xuci held the cat close, his eyelashes trembling as he choked out a sob. “Don’t ever do that again.”

In one day, he had almost lost it—twice.

“Meow~”

Another faint sound, and the cat’s eyes drifted shut in exhaustion.

Shang Xuci clutched the cat tightly, his breath heavy, and waited for the private helicopter. Once it arrived, he carried the cat aboard.

Fu Qian said gravely, “Mr. Shang, leave the rest to me.”

“Thank you for your hard work.” Shang Xuci hadn’t expected that in order to kill him, they would resort to self-detonation—a terrorist’s tactic. Rage burned in his chest, but right now, the only thing that mattered was getting his cat to the hospital.

The mercenary captain sat in the back. Alive, though barely believing it, he closed his eyes for a brief rest. They were paid to fight, but none of them had expected to face such a desperate criminal. They were willing to risk their lives, but he couldn’t help wondering: what kind of reward could drive a man to madness like that?

He had thought death was certain. Even if he’d survived, he should have been gravely injured. Yet miraculously, he felt a shield of energy—soft, like a breeze—protecting him from the worst of the blast. He was left with only minor wounds, and no one in their vehicle had died.

If not for the cat, none of them would have survived.

The captain glanced at the gray cat curled obediently in its employer’s arms, ears drooping, body limp.

What a spiritual creature. No wonder the employer cared so deeply.

Jian Xun smacked his lips and closed his eyes. It seemed the plot had reached ninety percent.

The most dangerous part was over.

The big white cat relaxed in the man’s lap.

I’m so tired… still a little unwell.

The cat had been struck, but only bruised. The blood came from fragments of flesh hurled by the explosion.

At the last second, he had used his points to fortify his body and block the blow. The impact sent him crashing to the ground, leaving him dizzy and weak for a moment. But after resting, his strength returned. Shaking out his fur, he felt his energy restore—though he still wanted to lick the wounds clean.

Outside the window, blue skies and white clouds stretched endlessly, while inside, the cabin was luxurious and serene. The spacious, fully flat seats were upholstered in soft leather and fine fabrics, and a small minibar nearby was stocked with an assortment of drinks and snacks.

Exquisite artwork decorated the walls, and the faint scent of perfume lingered in the air, creating a relaxing atmosphere.

The large white cat gazed out the window, then lowered its eyes. Its legs were no longer sticky—clean and soft once again.

Am I on a plane?

How long have I been asleep?

Why is it daybreak again?

Lifting his head, Jian Xun spotted Shang Xuci resting with his eyes closed. He placed a paw on the man’s stomach and gently rubbed his head against him.

Shang Xuci stirred, startled awake by the little creature’s movements. He looked down at the cat in his arms, then reached out to pinch its paw pads while his other hand stroked it from head to tail.

“Meow~”

Are we going back now?

But my things are still at the hotel!

The big white cat tucked its tail between its legs, looking aggrieved.

“Let’s go home,” Shang Xuci murmured, stroking the cat’s head.

But… my stuff…

The cat drooped its tail, pouting slightly as it continued staring out the window. He’d have to contact the hotel to see if they could ship the belongings back.

Still, this trip hadn’t been in vain—he had saved the big guy. Even if his plot points weren’t maxed out, at least his life was no longer in danger, and his Darkness stat had reset to zero.

Jian Xun instantly brightened. His big, clear blue eyes sparkled as he meowed at Shang Xuci. He didn’t dare be too loud, afraid of disturbing the others, so he let out a soft, coquettish sound and rolled over, baring his belly for a pat.

Shang Xuci didn’t touch his belly.

Instead, he rested his slender fingers on the cat’s head, gazing at him thoughtfully.

“Sui Sui, explain why you’re abroad?”

The big white cat froze.

---

“Mr. Shang is in the hospital,” Fu Qian said. “His condition doesn’t seem to be improving.”

“He said he can’t go. He hopes you can go in his place,” Fu Qian continued. “Besides you, the group is sending someone else.”

Fu Qian could already guess what Shang Wei was thinking. He had checked beforehand and confirmed that Shang Wei wasn’t faking his illness. He had even signed a confidentiality agreement with the hospital.

Shang Wei isn’t going?

In his previous life, around this same time, Shang Wei had only used illness as an excuse. But in this life, he had actually contracted a foul disease. He probably hadn’t expected Xu Rong to end up in the hospital again.

Shang Xuci sneered inwardly. What a coincidence. They must have planned this from the start.

Fu Qian stood behind him, his phone vibrating in his pocket. He stepped outside to answer the call, then returned to the office and reported, “Mr. Shang, they’ve sent an invitation. The time and location are confirmed in Country M.”

Shang Xuci listened as Fu Qian recited the time and place, exactly as it had been in his previous life. His narrow eyes narrowed slightly. “Prepare as I instructed. Everything will proceed according to plan.”

Whether or not he made the same choice as before, Shang Xuci would not take it lightly. On the contrary, he would make that person pay the price.

Fu Qian nodded. “Don’t worry.”

He hadn’t expected that person to be so bold as to actually want to kill Mr. Shang.

It was true that Shang Jue didn’t look well and could die at any moment. Those targeting the Shang Group had been circling for a long time. He had endured their games long enough, and now Shang Xuci wanted to put an end to it all as soon as possible. After all, his fate had already begun to change—it was time to clear the board.

“Don’t tell Jian Xun about my business trip.”

“Okay.”

…

In the hallway.

A fluffy, snow-white cat, seemingly delightful to pet, crouched in a corner, intently nibbling on dried fish. After finishing the last piece, the cat padded toward Shang Xuci’s office. Seeing no one inside, it turned and noticed Fu Qian still there.

The cat leapt onto Secretary Fu’s desk and asked with a meow, “Meow!”

Where’s Shang Xuci?

Fu Qian, seeing the cat, deftly pulled out a catnip and held it under the cat’s mouth, his eyes still fixed on the computer.

But Jian Xun didn’t bite the catnip. Instead, he turned to look at the computer screen and saw Shang Xuci’s name. Looking again, he realized Fu Qian was booking a flight ticket for his boss.

The cat, a large lump of fur, sprawled across most of the desk. Its ears twitched, and it let out a long yawn.

Then something suddenly flashed through his mind.

Wait!

This time and place!

Isn’t this just the plot where the boss gets injured, disabled, and sick? Jian Xun was both happy that the finale had finally arrived, yet also worried about Shang Xuci.

He paced back and forth on the table, worry written all over his face.

What should he do? Sui Sui can’t get on the plane. Sui Sui can’t go with the boss.

And given Shang Xuci’s attitude, he definitely wouldn’t take a cat abroad. What if someone asked, and Shang Xuci outright refused? What if someone had to “monitor the cat”? That would be a disaster.

Fu Qian, who was standing nearby, finished his work, turned toward the front right row, frowned, and asked, “Why isn’t Jian Xun here again?”

The pacing white cat froze mid-step, its paw raised stiffly in the air, then darted toward the bathroom.

Suddenly, the big white cat’s eyes lit up. If Sui Sui couldn’t go with the boss—then he could!

He had an ID card and a salary. He could go in secret!

Luckily, I just memorized the departure time and address. Now I can turn into a human and book the same flight!

In the restroom, Jian Xun booked his flight ticket, tapped his phone back into his pocket, washed his hands, and returned to his workstation.

There, he noticed Fu Qian staring at him intently, which made Jian Xun feel uneasy.

Secretary Fu didn’t ask where he had been all morning. Instead, he simply gave him a task: to accompany someone to inspect Yinfeng Entertainment’s esports department for a week.

“Ah!” Jian Xun exclaimed. “What about clocking in then? Do I have to climb this side of the building to clock in and out?”

Fu Qian pursed his lips. “No need to clock in.”

“Oh, okay.”

Great! Jian Xun rejoiced inwardly. He’d been worrying about how to handle his work here. After all, he could be his stand-in, Sui Sui—but not his stand-in, Jian Xun.

…

International Airport.

Jian Xun was fully disguised: a high-necked white T-shirt, a long black trench coat, black casual pants, black Martin boots, a black mask, black sunglasses, and a black baseball cap. From head to toe, he was dressed in black.

It was off-season, so the plane wasn’t crowded. After boarding and taking his seat, Jian Xun didn’t see Shang Xuci. Knowing Shang Xuci was in first class, he considered changing his ticket as well. But after asking the flight attendant about the price, he sat back down quietly.

So expensive!

Jian Xun squeezed his wallet in his pocket and gave up.

After sleeping four or five hours, he woke once, asked if there was still half the flight left, then drifted back to sleep.

When the plane landed, the sky was already gray, nearly dark.

Jian Xun sniffed his way off the plane, chasing after the passengers. He spotted a striking man in the crowd and immediately ran after him.

After the driver picked up Shang Xuci, Jian Xun hailed another car, using hand gestures and a translation app to get the driver to follow the car in front. They eventually arrived at Shang Xuci’s hotel.

Jian Xun checked in and tossed and turned in bed that night, unable to sleep. Without Shang Xuci’s presence, the sound of his heartbeat, or the warmth of his body, he suffered from insomnia.

Thinking of the impending events, Jian Xun felt apprehensive. He had to follow the next day’s itinerary to prevent a tragedy!

Before dawn, the big white cat followed someone in the elevator to the parking lot, tracked the license plate to Shang Xuci’s car, and waited there early.

When daylight arrived, the sky was hazy and the sun was absent.

At the sound of movement, Jian Xun immediately perked up. He saw a tall man in a black suit approach the car, glance around, and open the door with his key.

Has the driver changed? He looks different from yesterday.

Jian Xun took advantage of the man rolling down his window while speaking on the phone and crept closer, looking for a chance. When Shang Xuci arrived, the driver got out to open the door. Jian Xun seized the opportunity to slip through and hide behind the stuffed animals in the back seat. He tucked his large tail between his hips and held it with both hands.

After the man got into the car, Jian Xun felt a little strange. His nose twitched—he couldn’t smell Shang Xuci. Just as he was wondering, the car drove off and then stopped outside the hotel. A taller, more muscular thug in a suit climbed into the back seat. His trouser pockets bulged with something; on closer inspection Jian Xun saw a cold, black handle that looked a lot like…

The suited thug was bald and held a walkie-talkie. He spoke in a rare language Jian Xun couldn’t understand, and his expression was menacing.

For a moment, Jian Xun wondered if he had boarded the wrong car. He felt relieved when the driver called out, “Mr. Shang.” Relief flooded him—he had gotten on the right car.

He checked his points first; if anything went wrong, he wanted a plan.

Jian Xun was surprised to find his intimacy points were almost one hundred!

That’s a lot!

Another car passed them.

Shang Xuci, dressed casually, crossed his legs, closed his eyes, and rested, fingering the Buddhist beads his grandmother had given him as he listened to the report.

After the bald man hung up the phone, the car fell into an eerie silence; none of the three spoke.

The strange atmosphere lasted nearly half an hour, and the car turned from a bustling avenue into the wilderness, where the road grew steeper.

Jian Xun held the tip of his tail toward the suited thug, stared at the bald head so shiny it reflected light, and felt his heart begin to itch.

Close your eyes and hypnotize. Don’t look, don’t look! You have important things to do now — you can’t play!

The cat kept himself still for half an hour, his eyes nearly closing. He shook his head quickly, refocused, and stared intently at the road ahead.

Focus, focus — just look ahead.

He continued to encourage himself. He could hold his body still for an hour, he told himself, but his eyes kept darting.

Looking away to collect himself, he returned his gaze to the round, large, bald head.

There wasn’t a single hair on it.

The cat sniffed and detected a faint scent of wood. The bald head looked hard, iron-like, and cold. It looked like a good… head!

Tentatively, the cat extended a paw.

Wanted to knock.

Would it go “dong” (soft) or “DONG” (loud)?

Playfulness won out over caution. With an expression that said he wanted to be naughty, the big white cat curiously reached out to touch the bald head.

At the instant of contact, he retracted his claws and hid.

Seeing no reaction from the bald man, the cat grew bolder. He balled his little paws into fists and delivered a rapid series of vicious meow-punches to the bald head!

Bang!

Someone’s attacking!!!

The bald man reacted immediately, covering his head to block the blows. He turned and drew a weapon, aiming it toward the trunk.

“Who’s there? Get out, or I’ll shoot.”

“Meow~”

A frightened, trembling, pitiful cat sound rang out.

The bald man pushed aside a large plush stuffed animal and saw a gorgeous lion-like cat curled atop it. Its head rested on its front paws, ears drooping, mouth slightly pouted, afraid to move. Only its large watery blue eyes stared back.

It looked pitiful and wronged.

“What happened?”

“There’s a cat hiding in the car,” the team leader in the passenger seat said, glancing back.

“What did you say?!” Shang Xuci snapped. His voice, usually calm, turned as cold as cracking ice. His fingers — which had been fingering the Buddhist beads — clenched so hard that his knuckles paled.

The air thickened. The driver darted a glance at Shang Xuci in the rearview mirror. Seeing his boss’s brow furrow and face darken, he trembled inwardly and immediately focused back on the road.

The bald man lifted the stiff, motionless cat into his arms, inspected it carefully, and reported, “A large white cat with blue eyes and long fur. I don’t know the breed. It weighs about ten pounds. Its legs are trembling and its expression is dull. It doesn’t resist or meow.”

The bald man had never owned a cat and had little interest in them. The cat’s smooth fur felt pleasant to the touch, but the animal’s timid expression made it seem frightened and cowardly.

At that moment, Jian Xun had only two words in his head: It’s over!

It’s over, it’s over — we’ve been discovered!!

What are they going to do with Maomao?!

Where’s the boss?!

Why isn’t the boss here?!

Jian Xun stared at the man in the passenger seat who looked like Shang Xuci. When the man turned to glance at Maomao, Jian Xun realized with shock — it wasn’t Shang Xuci!

The atmosphere inside the car grew heavy. The large white cat curled up in the corner of the soft back seat, clutching his tail.

The man in black in the passenger seat snapped a photo and sent it to Shang Xuci. Shang Xuci glanced at it and instructed the butler not to look for the cat. Then he ordered the driver, “Change route and rendezvous with them.”

The driver, deputy captain of the bodyguards, had been tasked with ensuring Shang Xuci’s absolute safety. Not even the slightest deviation was allowed.

But since the boss had given the order, he couldn’t object.

Shang Xuci knew firsthand how dangerous this trip was — the conspiracy was aimed at him. If this cooperation succeeded, the Shang Group would be his, and plenty of people would not be pleased. Last time, midway through the journey, he had sensed something wrong. Despite being outnumbered, he barely managed to escape. But in the end, his car crashed off a cliff, leaving both legs crippled.

This time, the incident, the route, everything was the same. To avoid suspicion, he had arranged for a stand-in to sit in his place. The plain-looking cars tailing them were all filled with his own men. If anything happened, the bodyguards would rush in immediately.

Overseas, laws were lax, and even murder could go unpunished — enough to embolden desperate criminals.

That was why Shang Xuci had hired top-tier international mercenaries. Skilled, disciplined, and experienced, they specialized in counter-assassination operations.

Even when a cat suddenly appeared, they remained vigilant, checking it for any surveillance devices.

Only after confirming it was the boss’s cat did Jian Xun escape suspicion.

The bodyguards, unaware of how important the cat was to their boss, simply left it in the car. Their mission was to protect Shang Xuci, not a pet.

The second half of the journey was unusually quiet. Even Sui Sui, the cat, sensed the strange atmosphere.

Jian Xun’s heart finally eased. He remembered that, in the book, the big boss had an accident on the road. But since Shang Xuci wasn’t in this car, he let out a breath of relief.

…

Noon.

The car pulled up at its destination.

Xu Huai was already waiting at the entrance.

The Xu family was also invested in this project, and Shang Xuci had given them significant support. Xu Huai had even taken the initiative to cooperate with Zhilida, hoping to overcome the crisis together.

Shang Xuci stepped out of the car. Xu Huai moved forward. “Let’s go upstairs first.”

“Wait a moment, I need to make a call.” He had lost contact with the stand-in’s car a few minutes ago, and Sui Sui was in it as well. The others all had ways to protect themselves, but the cat didn’t.

Sui Sui was so timid. Shang Xuci worried he might get hurt by accident.

Beep, beep, beep—

“Sorry, the number you dialed is currently unavailable. Please try again later…”

Shang Xuci called three times. No one answered.

He checked the GPS tracker. The car hadn’t moved.

“I’ll have someone check it out,” Fu Qian said from behind.

Shang Xuci’s voice turned cold. “No need.”

“I’ll go find him.”

---

Shang Xuci saw his serious expression and felt satisfied.

Very good.

Cats have their own virtues.

Men have their own virtues.

Cat owners should treat sensitive, fragile kittens with undivided attention.

…

Weekend.

The sun shone brightly. The sky was a clear azure, and a few leisurely white clouds drifted slowly across it.

Ludao Garden.

Jian Xun stood at the gate of the manor, waiting for Xu Tutu. When he heard that Shang Xuci wanted to offer Xu Tutu a job, Jian Xun was delighted. He had done some research and found that people working at the manor generally received high salaries and worked short hours. As long as there was someone to cover shifts, the two of them could negotiate and arrange flexible hours.

He knew Xu Tutu had been secretly browsing a recruitment app. After mentioning it casually to Shang Xuci, Shang Xuci said there was a job perfectly suited for Xu Tutu and asked if he was interested.

This wasn’t Xu Tutu’s first time here; he walked straight over with his cane.

Jian Xun hurried forward to greet him.

Xu Tutu hadn’t realized this visit was job-related. He had simply given in to the lure of Chef Zhao’s cooking and came again. When he asked Jian Xun about it, he felt that Shang Xuci must already know Jian Xun’s true status—otherwise, why would he be treated with such indulgence? How could an ordinary assistant receive such privileges?

And in such a private place as the residence, no less.

While Jian Xun was helping Uncle Zhao make tea, Shang Xuci sat across from Xu Tutu and chatted with him.

They were seated outside the teahouse pavilion. On the left, a fence joined the wall. Violets curled around the doorframe, their delicate strings of purple flowers drooping gracefully.

“Where do you work?”

Xu Tutu patted his thigh. “I quit. I’m focusing on recovering from my injury.”

“Will you look for another job once your injury heals?”

“Of course. To make a living, you have to work.”

“How about working for me?”

“What do you do?”

“Security,” Shang Xuci said. “Just guard the lake in front of the manor.”

Xu Tutu looked puzzled.

Shang Xuci explained calmly, “It’s full of fish for Sui Sui. Sometimes small animals try to catch them, but they’re timid. You just need to scare them away.”

Is it really that simple? Xu Tutu eyed Shang Xuci suspiciously, as if to say, Don’t lie to me.

Shang Xuci said, “That lake is full of rare fish. If you don’t want the job, I’ll find someone else.”

Xu Tutu felt a little relieved. “Can I work part-time?”

“Of course.”

“How much is the salary?”

Shang Xuci held up a finger.

“A thousand?” Xu Tutu thought for a moment. With room and board included, he could cover the grounds with a short walk. The work sounded easy, so a thousand didn’t seem unreasonable.

After all, in his last sales job he’d worked himself to death and only made three thousand eight hundred a month—minus social security!

Shang Xuci pursed his lips. “Add another zero.”

Xu Tutu: “!!!”

“Social security?”

“I don’t do anything illegal.”

Xu Tutu’s eyes lit up, and his opinion of the man changed instantly.

“I can start tomorrow!” he said excitedly.

Shang Xuci glanced at his leg. “You’re willing to work despite this injury. That’s commendable. Your salary will be doubled.”

Xu Tutu was so moved he felt like hugging his own thigh. There weren’t many bosses with a conscience these days!

Now his opinion of Shang Xuci had truly changed. No wonder Jian Xun always praised him. He really was a good man!

The office worker’s cat burst into tears of gratitude.

Jian Xun brought over a tea tray, poured a cup for each of them, and said, “I baked some cookies; they’ll be ready soon.”

As Jian Xun left, Shang Xuci noticed Xu Huai standing not far away, behind the flower wall.

Xu Tutu’s eyes flickered toward him—wanting to speak but unable to. Now that they were alone, Shang Xuci said, “Ask any questions you have.”

“Do you like Jian Xun?” Xu Tutu asked bluntly. “I’ve never seen a boss care for their subordinates like that.”

“Yes,” Shang Xuci answered without hesitation.

“Do you know his identity?” Xu Tutu asked softly; he only had suspicions so far.

“I do.” Shang Xuci glanced at him meaningfully. “Not only his identity — I also know yours.”

Xu Tutu went immediately on alert.

“Relax. You’re Sui Sui’s good friend. I won’t hurt you.”

“Aren’t you scared?” Xu Tutu clearly remembered Xu Huai’s expression the first time he transformed into a human. The man had frowned and questioned him. He had preferred the cat to the human. Back then, Xu Tutu hadn’t been fluent in human speech and only knew a few simple words. Unable to argue with Xu Huai, the little cat-man had bitten him.

Seeing the cat ears and tail atop the young man’s head, Xu Huai had reluctantly accepted the reality.

That memory had left a deep impression on Xu Tutu.

The owner hadn’t wanted the cat to transform into a human.

Their relationship changed.

“Why should I be afraid?” Shang Xuci said. “You should be the one grateful.”

“It’s hard to guess a cat’s thoughts, and it’s hard for humans to understand their behavior. I really wish Sui Sui would just tell me what he wants—where he feels uncomfortable, what he wants to do…” Shang Xuci’s lips curled into a smile as he added sincerely, “Although a cat’s meow is cute, too.”

“You’re a good person,” Xu Tutu commented.

“What about you? Why did you leave Xu Huai?” Shang Xuci asked. “Do you hate him?”

“No,” Xu Tutu said without hesitation. “I just don’t think he likes me that much. He treats the cat like his personal possession and has an overwhelming need for control.”

“Didn’t he give you freedom later?”

Xu Tutu curled his lips. “Freedom for the cat, not for the kitten!”

Thinking of the man’s pathological obsession, Xu Tutu placed his hands on the table and bowed his head. “I don’t want to talk about this.”

The two of them had debated the issue of freedom countless times, and their arguments had always stemmed from it.

Just then, Jian Xun came over with a plate of freshly baked cookies. “Eat up—there’s another batch coming!”

He set the plate down on the table and glanced at Shang Xuci, who gave a slight nod. Immediately understanding that Xu Tutu was about to become his colleague, Jian Xun’s face lit up with a beaming smile. He skipped back to the kitchen to prepare his own batch.

Xu Tutu’s nose twitched as he caught the milky aroma of the kitten-shaped cookies. He grabbed a handful and started munching.

“He doesn’t care about me right now anyway,” Xu Tutu said.

Behind the fence, Xu Huai felt his eyelids ache. He shook his head sadly and murmured to himself, “No, I care about him. I miss him so much.”

The cat he had thought about day and night was right before his eyes. Even though he could only see the back of his head, Xu Huai still felt content. Hearing Xu Tutu say those words, however, made him ache to stand up and shout back.

But because of his pact with Shang Xuci, Xu Huai could only remain where he was, completely distraught.

“Why do you think that?” Shang Xuci couldn’t help but ask. “Xu Huai’s been looking for you. I’ve been to his house—he treasures all your things. He’s in very poor condition.”

“Hmph, not at all!” Xu Tutu suddenly raised his voice in indignation. “I went back and saw that he not only has many cats, but he even has one with the exact same pattern as mine!”

Jian Xun, who was carrying in the second plate of cookies, was suddenly grabbed by Xu Tutu. “Jian Xun, tell me, isn’t it true? Xu Huai has a tabby cat!”

Having not listened to a word of the conversation, Jian Xun was bewildered by the sudden question. But, recalling what he had seen, he nodded firmly. “Yes, Xu Huai does have many cats. Including one—I saw it with my own eyes!”

“I want this one too!” Xu Tutu declared, pointing at the last chocolate-colored cat cookie.

Jian Xun said, “There’s more. I’ll get it.”

After he left, Xu Tutu turned back to Shang Xuci and continued, “I don’t know what you humans think, but in our cat world, home is our territory. Having other cats around is fine, but I, Xu Tutu, can’t stand the poop-scooper raising a substitute cat! He even plays with my toys! Uses my bowl! Sleeps with my little brother!”

“So the tabby cat slept with Jian Xun?” Shang Xuci asked with a frown.

Xu Tutu shot him a speechless look.

“I’m talking about Xu Huai!”

Jian Xun was his brother. Xu Huai was his little brother!

“Well, that’s definitely not right.” Shang Xuci glanced at Xu Huai from the corner of his eye.

The man stiffened, his brow furrowed.

How could he not have known there was another cat?

Speaking of tabbies—hadn’t his adopted brother raised one?

Xu Huai made a mental note. He would explain this later.

“Let’s put that aside for now,” Xu Tutu went on. “Will you be with Jian Xun forever? The kind of forever where no one can separate you?”

Shang Xuci answered without hesitation, “I’ll be with him forever.”

Xu Tutu nodded, satisfied.

“That’s it. Xu Huai’s family doesn’t like me. His mother came over and said I wasn’t worthy of him—just like that tabby cat.”

At that time, Xu Huai had just been repatriated by the Xu family, and he and Xu Tutu were living there for a while.

Xu Huai’s mother also had a cat, a foreign breed. He took advantage of his owner’s favor to provoke Xu Tutu, but was beaten down with a single cat punch. Afterward, he went back and acted pitiful in front of the woman.

Xu Tutu could never understand why a cat that was even afraid of mice was worth loving. After all, fighting back is part of a cat’s dignity.

Later, it turned into a case of a cat flaunting its owner’s power. Xu Huai’s mother took out her anger on her own cat, often bullying him when Xu Huai wasn’t home.

When that cat eventually became human, Xu Tutu didn’t like him either.

Xu Tutu spoke calmly, but Shang Xuci’s expression grew complicated. Xu Huai, on the other hand, looked completely stunned.

He! Actually! Didn’t! Know!

Shang Xuci studied his expression, thoughtful, before asking, “Does he know?”

“He definitely knows. I’ve hinted at it several times!” Xu Tutu said firmly. “He just told me to be more accommodating toward the foreigner—said he was young, while I was too aggressive and overbearing!”

Xu Huai’s expression darkened even more.

He had never realized that Xu Tutu was being bullied by his mother, nor that the tabby cat had deliberately brought him over to see her cat in order to gain her support.

And yet he had still said that.

No wonder Tutu was disappointed.

Xu Huai clenched his fists, wishing he could drag out his former self and give him a good beating.

Shang Xuci used Xu Tutu and Xu Huai’s interactions as a mirror for himself, listening carefully to Maomao’s words and reflecting on what he needed to improve. The only thing he didn’t know was when Jian Xun would finally reveal his true identity.

Their conversation ended abruptly when Jian Xun served the last plate of snacks.

He also noticed someone standing on the other side of the fence. Thinking it was the gardener, he hurried over—only to catch a fleeting glimpse of a figure.

Pushing the thought aside, Jian Xun turned back and offered them a taste of the “Sui Sui” cookies.

That afternoon, Jian Xun took Xu Tutu for a stroll along the lake, while Shang Xuci met Xu Huai in the reception hall.

“Thank you for asking those questions for me,” Xu Huai said with genuine gratitude.

Shang Xuci shook his head. “I can see Xu Tutu still has feelings for you. Correct your behavior and earn back his trust soon.”

“Yeah.”

Xu Huai felt uneasy. His mind was a mess, and he had no idea how to regain that trust. He even thought Xu Tutu might run away the moment he saw him.

As someone who had gone through something similar, Shang Xuci advised, “He really enjoys working. For me, it’s just a part-time job.”

Xu Huai paused. “I understand.”

The sunset was intoxicating.

Jian Xun sent Xu Tutu off, then transformed into a cat and eagerly ran back to the villa, clutching the redeemed candy.

I’m so happy today! I want to cuddle!

The lion cat hastily wiped its paws at the door, flicked its tail, and darted into the study. It leapt onto the desk, set the candy down, and pushed it toward Shang Xuci.

Shang Xuci picked up the candy and rubbed its soft, furry head.

Meow, meow.

He extended his cat paw, pressing gently to give him a massage. “Is Sui Sui happy today?”

The big white cat tilted its head and meowed softly at him.

…

Xinyu Company.

Fu Qian placed a stack of documents on the table. “Mr. Shang, just as you expected, they can’t wait any longer.”

“Have you made an appointment with Zhilida?”

“Yes,” Fu Qian replied, then hesitated. “But… there seems to be a problem with your father.”

“Just tell me.”

“Mr. Shang, he seems to be ill.”

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