Shang Xuci used to hate seeing others cry. To him, tears were the most worthless thing. He hadn’t cried for as long as he could remember. He’d been pricked by doctors, bullied by his stepmother’s servants, betrayed by those close to him, and even when his mother died, his eyes had only brimmed with tears—but never spilled them.

Tears, in his mind, only exposed a person’s fragility. Crying couldn’t solve anything.

But when he saw the boy’s tears, it felt as if someone had gripped his heart in a fist—tight, aching, and terrifying.

He couldn’t explain the feeling. Overwhelmed, afraid of losing control, Shang Xuci stepped forward and pulled him into his arms.

“Why are you crying?” His voice was low and soft, holding him as though he were the most fragile treasure in the world.

Jian Xun clung to his shoulders, his breathing uneven. When he came back to his senses, he quickly wiped away his tears.

Catching the faint scent of perfume on Shang Xuci and recalling Aunt Wang’s words, Jian Xun said unhappily, “You’re back.”

There was still a trace of a sob in his voice. He sniffed, his sorrow fading and giving way to displeasure—
as if it had been someone else crying moments ago.

Shang Xuci cupped the boy’s face, studied him, and asked again, “Why are you crying?”

Jian Xun had recovered by now. They were close—too close. Their posture felt almost intimate. He could feel the man’s warm breath against his skin, sending a tingling shiver down his spine.

And those dark, bottomless eyes… they were fixed only on him.

Jian Xun shook his head, forcing away the unwanted thoughts.

His heart was pounding. He swallowed, a faint blush of shame coloring his tone as he averted his gaze.
“I… I was watching a TV show. I… I couldn’t control myself.”

He stammered, bewildered.

Shang Xuci studied his face and saw no sign of a lie. His expression was unreadable. He let go of Jian Xun’s hand and shifted his gaze to the TV.

The drama was still playing, showing the female lead being tormented…

Shang Xuci: “…”

Jian Xun nervously tugged at the hem of his clothes, his hands twisting together as he stole glances at Shang Xuci’s face. Seeing that he said nothing, Jian Xun exhaled in relief—only to start feeling annoyed.

He hadn’t returned to Ludao Garden until eight o’clock that evening. After showering, changing clothes, and eating, he began packing his things. Only then did he notice that Uncle Zhao hadn’t prepared dinner for Shang Xuci. When he asked, he learned that Shang Xuci had gone to a drinking party.

While Aunt Wang was cleaning the living room, Jian Xun went to help. As they chatted, Aunt Wang glanced at her phone and said, “Oh my god, Mr. Shang went to Ye Se for dinner. He might not even be back tonight.”

Puzzled, Jian Xun asked, “Why? Does the food there smell that good?”

Could it really be better than Uncle Zhao’s cooking?

Aunt Wang shook her head, lowering her voice. “That’s not the smell of food.”

Noticing the young man’s curiosity, she winked and hinted, “It’s the smell of people.”

Jian Xun froze. “Eating… people?”

Aunt Wang, startled by his thought process, chuckled and whispered in his ear, “It’s the kind of place where men and women… have inappropriate fun together.”

Jian Xun’s face turned crimson.

No wonder Shang Xuci’s assistant had never taken him there—he’d gone to that kind of place for fun!

Time for fun, but no time for cats!

Jian Xun’s annoyance grew. He didn’t feel like going back to his room, so he grabbed the work from Aunt Wang’s hands and said, “I’ll help you!”

Aunt Wang eventually moved on to other topics, but Jian Xun wasn’t interested. He kept glancing at the wall clock, growing more impatient by the minute.

At one point, he transformed into a cat and went to the living room to ask the housekeeper to turn on the TV. He waited until nine o’clock, but Shang Xuci still hadn’t returned.

Sui Sui was furious and could only let out an indignant meow.

Then he grabbed the landline phone to make a call.

When Shang Xuci heard the meow, he softened his tone and promised, “I’ll be back soon.” Only then did the cat relent.

Finally, under the stunned gazes of the housekeeper and Aunt Wang, Sui Sui transformed back into a human and continued waiting in the living room.

Jian Xun changed the sofa cushion covers and stretched out to watch TV. It happened to be playing the domineering CEO-wife romance drama he had been following during his part-time job.

Before long, he was completely absorbed.

Just as the romance between the hero and heroine was heating up, the woman who had been kept as a substitute was in a car accident. Lying in the hospital, she was told she was pregnant. The heroine called the hero, only to be told that his true love had returned and he was on his way to see her.

The heroine sat alone on the cold hospital bed, covered in blood. Lowering her eyes, she whispered, “Let’s have the surgery.”

The scene of her abandonment began to unfold, the music perfectly capturing the heartbreak. Jian Xun—ever prone to crying—burst into tears.

And that was when Shang Xuci saw him.

Jian Xun still looked at Shang Xuci with longing.

Shang Xuci sighed. “Go to bed.”

“I can’t sleep.”

He followed behind Shang Xuci, and when he saw that he wasn’t heading toward the bedroom, he quickly said, “I’ll stay with you for a while.”

Shang Xuci almost asked in what capacity—aware that such a question could sound ambiguous. But now that he knew Jian Xun was Sui Sui, his cat, he figured cats didn’t understand such things. Seeing that aggrieved expression softened his heart, so he let him follow.

Shang Xuci sat in the tea room to sober up. He felt a little unsettled, leaning back on the sofa and rubbing his temples.

Jian Xun had smelled the alcohol on him since the moment he hugged him. He stepped closer, took his hand, and said, “I can massage you. It’ll make you feel better.”

Shang Xuci lowered his hand and closed his eyes.

Jian Xun immediately began, his warm palms gently cradling Shang Xuci’s head. Starting from his forehead, he slowly and rhythmically moved toward his temples. His touch carried a soothing magic, like a gentle stream washing away the day’s fatigue.

With his fingertips, he pressed lightly against the scalp, working from the nape of the neck upward to the crown, then back to the forehead, repeating the process in a steady rhythm.

Shang Xuci’s breathing grew slow and deep, his expression relaxing into peaceful contentment.

Sui Sui had massaged him before—kitten paws on his legs or shoulders—but never had he been so absorbed.

After being away from home for just a few months, he had mastered this technique with the skill of a seasoned pro. Shang Xuci couldn’t help but ask, “Where did you learn this?”

Jian Xun watched his expression during the massage; at least he looked relaxed, not displeased.

“I learned it while working,” he answered honestly.

When the massage ended, Shang Xuci sat up, poured two cups of tea, and pushed one toward Jian Xun. Flattered, Jian Xun drank it in one gulp.

Shang Xuci, feigning casual curiosity, asked, “Have you ever worked in a massage parlor?”

Jian Xun pursed his lips. “Yeah. I trained for a week, but I never got a permanent position. I quit—it was basically free labor.”

Shang Xuci interlaced his fingers and asked evenly, “Is this how you served customers?”

“Boss, have you never been to a massage parlor?” Jian Xun looked at him. “We don’t massage people on chairs. We do it on the bed.”

On the bed.

Shang Xuci’s grip on his teacup tightened, unbothered by the scorching heat. His pale fingertips flushed red.

His eyes darkened; so did his expression.

Jian Xun noticed and tried to read his thoughts. He drained his third cup of tea, yet the man still said nothing.

He then suggested, “How about we go to bed too?”

Shang Xuci’s temples throbbed. His emotions were close to breaking, his mind on the verge of collapse. He gritted his teeth and said, “Jian Xun, you know you can’t say that so casually?”

Jian Xun immediately understood what he meant. Lifting his teacup, he explained, “We’re just masseuses—nothing else. Why can’t I say that casually?”

He stared at Shang Xuci, his tone confident but edged with sarcasm. “We’re a legitimate massage parlor. Real masseuses, not the kind who eat and drink with customers and have women hanging off them!”

Jian Xun was a little angry. If it weren’t for the fact that he’d been waiting for Shang Xuci to come home so he could take care of him and talk with him, he would have turned into a cat and smacked him with his paw. Who would give him a massage only to be misunderstood like this?

Shang Xuci had never seen Jian Xun angry before. Seeing the young man’s pouting lips, his chest rising and falling, and his clenched fists resting on the table, he was just about to explain when Jian Xun suddenly stood up and said, “I’m going to bed.”

Without giving Shang Xuci a chance to respond, he ran out.

Shang Xuci narrowed his eyes, then headed to the bathroom for a shower. When he returned to his room, he saw the large white cat smoothing out the sheets.

“Ahem.”

He cleared his throat. Sui Sui froze, then plopped himself down in the center of the bed, turning his back on him.

Shang Xuci sat on the edge of the bed and reached out to touch him. The cat swatted his hand, pointedly refusing the contact.

“Sorry, I’m late.” Shang Xuci lowered himself to his eye level, speaking sincerely. “I just ate—I didn’t touch anyone.”

Sui Sui lowered his head, cautiously approaching and locking his gaze on him.

Then, without warning, he thrust out his little cat fists and punched him on the shoulder.

“Meow!”

That’s for criticizing me!

That’s for doubting me!

You bad guy!

Shang Xuci didn’t dare move. If not for the cat’s obvious irritation, he might have thought he was just drooping his shoulders. Thinking of the massage Jian Xun had given him earlier in the tea room, he realized he was venting his anger.

Good boy, Sui Sui, don’t be mad.” Shang Xuci softened his voice, coaxing him into forgiving him

After a flurry of punches, the cat finally allowed him to take his paw. Then he leaned in and sniffed him—face, neck, chest, then hands. Once he confirmed he only smelled of shower gel, he flicked his tail in satisfaction.

Shang Xuci lifted the quilt and patted the spot beside him. “Go to sleep.”

The big white cat gave him a sidelong glance before leaping onto the bed and stepping directly onto his stomach.

He wants to sleep on me!

Shang Xuci took a deep breath. His belly felt heavy, and he wanted to change his sleeping position. He reached out and patted the cat’s rump. The cat moved forward a step, planting itself directly on his chest before lying down again. Its paws rested on his collarbone, its head tucked under his chin. Warm breath fanned over his neck and chest, seeping into his limbs.

Even though he tried to appear relaxed, Shang Xuci still felt uneasy. The weight on his chest made breathing difficult, and he struggled to support himself. When the cat began to purr, he carefully rolled onto his side and wrapped it gently in his arms.

He thought, Sui Sui really needs to lose some weight.

---

Jian Xun became even more attentive—serving him tea and water, fetching his clothes, and eager to bring every meal right to him.

Shang Xuci’s illness had struck with a vengeance. His fever subsided quickly, but his cough had worsened. He had already been hospitalized once, and now his illness had relapsed, so Gu Ming rushed over to treat him.

Jian Xun stayed by Dr. Gu’s side, caring for Shang Xuci with all his heart.

For the first time, he felt truly grateful to have become human. If he had still been a cat, he would have been left alone, anxiously waiting.

Just as Dr. Gu left, Jian Xun saw Shang Xuci reading the documents Fu Qian had brought. He marched over angrily and said, “Work again! You’re sick—why are you still looking at work…”

When Shang Xuci looked up at him, Jian Xun’s momentum instantly faltered, but he still dared to mutter, head lowered, “Who doesn’t take care of their body?”

Using the excuse of going out, he transformed back into a cat and set out to cause trouble. With great energy, he leapt into Shang Xuci’s arms, blocking the documents and meowing wildly.

The meaning was exactly the same as his earlier scolding.

Even his expression was the same.

Shang Xuci’s lips curled at the cat’s adorable behavior. He set the documents aside and focused on petting him.

Jian Xun wasn’t sure whether to be happy or not.

Cats are truly irresistible, after all.

For the next few days, Jian Xun stayed by his side, taking care of him. When he was bored, he watched Tom and Jerry on his phone or read game commentaries. During breaks, he would transform back into a cat, carry a small dried fish pillow to the bedroom, jump onto the bed, and find a cozy spot next to Shang Xuci to nap.

Whenever Shang Xuci woke up, he would see either Jian Xun or Sui Sui—always close by. However, when Meng Jingxue came to visit, the cat was nowhere to be found.

As soon as the visitor left, Sui Sui reappeared, carrying his tablet to the bed and asking for the password.

The cat’s claws tapped at the screen with practiced ease. The tablet had two main pages: one with Apple’s default apps, and another with office software—no entertainment videos, no games.

The cat pouted and glanced at Shang Xuci, who was reading a book. He opened WeChat, scrolled down to a mini-program game, and then searched for Tom and Jerry on the video account.

The sound from the video caught Shang Xuci’s attention. The big white cat scooted closer, leaning side by side with him against the pillow as they watched the cartoon together.

“You like Tom and Jerry that much?”

“Meow!”

The cat meowed happily.

Shang Xuci let him be.

During the day, Jian Xun didn’t dare play games openly. He waited until Shang Xuci was asleep before playing on his phone—until he himself dozed off at the edge of the bed.

When Shang Xuci woke from his nap, he picked a hair off the bed. He placed it, along with some cat fur, into a transparent bag and asked the housekeeper to mail it.

By the time Jian Xun woke up, he found himself covered with a thin blanket. Instinctively, he checked the bed and realized Shang Xuci had gone out for some fresh air.

It had rained that morning, and the ground was still wet. The temperature was low. Seeing that Shang Xuci’s coat was still hanging on the hook, Jian Xun hurried downstairs to ask the housekeeper where he had gone. Then, grabbing the coat, he went out.

Shang Xuci and Gu Ming were fishing.

Jian Xun ran over, breathless, and froze when he saw Shang Xuci wearing a coat.

Gu Ming noticed him, his gaze lingering on the clothes in Jian Xun’s hands, and teased Shang Xuci, “You’re not hiring a housekeeper.”

Jian Xun blushed. “Doctor Gu, the boss is still sick.”

“Don’t worry. Even if he’s not feeling well, I can still take him fishing,” Gu Ming said with a smile before turning to Shang Xuci. “How thoughtful.”

The young man stood tall and slender, his skin pale and tender, his eyes fixed solely on one person.

That night, after returning to the villa from fishing, Jian Xun’s role shifted—from housekeeper to assistant.

The next day, Jian Xun and his boss took the car to the company. Sleepy, he clutched the canvas bag he had once carried to work at the factory and dropped into the passenger seat.

Shang Xuci glanced at him, still holding the medicine in his hand.

Jian Xun wore a loosely tucked white shirt. One button was missing from the collar—the very one he had given to Sui Sui.

He was wearing Shang Xuci’s clothes.

Clothes carrying Shang Xuci’s scent.

The collar lay slightly open against his skin, revealing a fair collarbone.

Shang Xuci’s gaze lingered. Jian Xun sat with his legs pressed together, trying to sit upright, his hands resting awkwardly on his knees. A faint pink flush still tinged his fair cheeks from the rush over.

Starting the car, Shang Xuci leaned over to fasten the boy’s seatbelt. The shared scent of their laundry detergent caught in his breath.

“Ah, I’ll do it.” Seeing Shang Xuci pause, Jian Xun hurried to buckle himself in, his hand brushing against Shang Xuci’s face by accident.

Shang Xuci’s eyes grew heavy with an inexplicable emotion.

Even his hands carried that same scent—truly, his entire body was marked by it.

When Jian Xun quickly pulled his hand back with an innocent expression, Shang Xuci withdrew his gaze, sat upright, and fixed his eyes on the road before driving off.

Noticing the glance at his clothes, Jian Xun asked, “Boss, I didn’t bring a suit. Is this okay?”

He sounded unsure. After all, he had only worked in a factory before and had no confidence about fitting into a big company.

Whether human or cat, he was just a young man fresh out of high school—nervous about his abilities and eager to make a good first impression on his first day.

His hair was loosely tied into a small bun, revealing a smooth forehead. A few stray strands softened his delicate face. His fine brows, rosy lips, and bright, clear eyes looked straight at Shang Xuci.

Shang Xuci almost said it didn’t suit him—but the clothes were his. He pressed his lips together and instead asked, “Why are you wearing this?”

“I like it,” Jian Xun replied softly, tugging at the hem of the shirt. “Isn’t it okay?”

At the word like, Shang Xuci’s hands tightened on the steering wheel. Taking a deep breath, he said, “Our company doesn’t have a dress code. Don’t worry.”

“Great!”

The young man’s eyes lit up. Relaxing, he clasped his hands together like a cat holding onto a seatbelt. Tilting his head, he closed his eyes to rest.

…

Office.

Fu Qian entered the room carrying a package and found his boss staring intently out the window. Following his gaze, he spotted Jian Xun happily chatting with someone.

Slacking off on his very first day at work—how audacious! Fu Qian frowned. Who had hired this guy? Could he really be Mr. Shang’s assistant?

His eyes flicked toward Shang Xuci’s coffee cup. It was almost empty.

So careless. Shouldn’t that be the assistant’s job as well?

He could have handled it all himself.

Still, Fu Qian didn’t complain. His workload had lessened, and his salary hadn’t been cut. That was something to be grateful for.

Collecting himself, he said, “Mr. Shang, this is your package.”

Shang Xuci withdrew his gaze, accepted the package, and placed it on the table.

When Fu Qian instinctively reached for the coffee pot, Shang Xuci intercepted him. “I’ll go myself.”

There was a coffee machine in the CEO’s office, but Shang Xuci walked out to the staff area instead. His eyes swept over the crowd gathered around Jian Xun. Just like when Sui Sui had first joined the company, everyone was eager to welcome the newcomer—especially one with such striking looks.

The young man stood in a crisp white shirt and black trousers. His skin was fair, and his eyes were as clear and bright as the summer sky.

At first reserved, Jian Xun gradually relaxed under the warm greetings of those around him.

A small smile curved his lips, and his movements brimmed with energy. Whenever someone spoke, he gazed at them earnestly, listening with full attention and nodding in agreement.

He was undeniably endearing.

And in just one morning, people were already flocking to him nonstop.

Shang Xuci lowered his gaze, dark and unsettling thoughts swirling in his chest. For a moment, he even regretted his decision.

What was the point of bringing him here? Wouldn’t it have been better to leave him at home?

Turning back, Shang Xuci told Fu Qian, “Assign some tasks to Jian Xun.”

Fu Qian nodded solemnly. “Understood.”

It was a warning.

After all, it was his first day at work, and there was a lot to learn.

Shang Xuci sat back at his desk and opened the documents. Just as he had suspected—Jian Xun was Sui Sui, and Sui Sui was Jian Xun.

Sui Sui hadn’t changed since the day he ran away from home, but after his return, he had. Shang Xuci carefully reviewed his experiences after running away and found that he had spent his time wandering before eventually working in a factory.

As for why he had run away, one day, Jian Xun would have to tell him himself.

From now on, whether human or cat, he would never let him go.

…

Jian Xun, the young assistant, sat at his workstation reviewing company information. With a heavy thud, a thick stack of documents landed on his desk.

He looked up to see Fu Qian saying sternly, “Finish these forms.”

“All of them?” Jian Xun swallowed hard as he saw the pile nearly towering over him.

“Yeah.” Noticing a few employees glancing over, Fu Qian cleared his throat and added, “These are just basic forms—you would have learned them in college.”

“Well, I…” Jian Xun began to explain he hadn’t been to college, but Fu Qian cut him off.

“There’s plenty of time. If you don’t understand something, you can ask Xiao Liu—he’ll be guiding you for now.” With that, Fu Qian returned to his desk.

Jian Xun looked at the daunting pile, then went to find Assistant Liu.

Assistant Liu, a short-haired girl sitting next to him, scooted her chair over as soon as Secretary Fu was gone. “I’ll help you take a look,” she offered.

…

Shang Xuci finished the last document in his hand and glanced toward Jian Xun’s workstation.

The young man was sitting close to a young woman. She held a document in one hand while pointing at the computer screen, explaining things to him. Jian Xun listened attentively, eyes fixed on the monitor, occasionally asking questions.

Assistant Liu guided him step by step. When Jian Xun’s hand brushed against hers, his fingertips, cheeks, and ears turned red, his gaze shifting restlessly.

Shang Xuci’s eyes narrowed, a flicker of displeasure passing through them.

What was Fu Qian doing? Assigning work—assigning people to other people?

Shang Xuci pulled out his phone and sent a message.

Moments later, Jian Xun entered the office, carrying documents.

He immediately noticed a private photo of himself—crouched down, looking up at a cat on the table. His fair face flushed instantly, and an inexplicable flutter rose in his chest.

When he glanced up at Shang Xuci again, the man sat with an air of aloofness, radiating quiet authority, his head lowered over the documents. His cold, unsmiling face, his thin, tightly pressed lips, and his sharp focus on work were all sides of him Jian Xun had never seen before.

But when Shang Xuci looked up and saw him, his voice and expression softened in an instant—like a snowy mountain beginning to melt.

“Have you been settling into the job?”

Jian Xun nodded. “Everyone’s been very nice to me.”

He set the documents on the table, closed the door, and returned to his workstation to continue his battle of wits and endurance against the spreadsheet. It wasn’t until he checked the time on his phone that his gloom lifted.

“Lunch time!” he said excitedly.

Picking up his canvas bag, Jian Xun walked over to the microwave to heat his food. Ding! He happily carried the lunch box toward Shang Xuci’s office.

…

As Shang Xuci reached the door, he noticed a familiar figure. Nearby, a group of female colleagues were whispering.

“Is that Miss Meng? Here to have lunch with Mr. Shang again?”

“What else?” another replied enviously. “Miss Meng and he are childhood sweethearts. Of course they’re close. Have you ever seen him approach any other woman? I think they’re about to get married.”

“They’re a perfect match.”

“Hurry, they’re coming out. I’m leaving before they see me.”

Click—

The moment the door opened, Jian Xun quickly hid his lunch box behind him and stepped aside.

“I happened to be here today for some work. Want to have lunch together?” Meng Jingxue asked as she approached.

The Meng family had signed a contract with Xinyu, and her father insisted she handle the initial negotiations. Even though Meng Jingxue repeatedly reminded him she was a doctor, not a businesswoman, he ignored her. She often came to Xinyu to avoid work—and after a few visits, she had fallen in love with the cafeteria. Whenever she came for lunch, she always brought Shang Xuci with her.

This time, however, Shang Xuci didn’t leave with her. Instead, he took out his phone and dialed a number. The ringing sounded close by, and within moments, he walked over and found Jian Xun hiding nearby.

“Let’s have lunch together,” he said.

Jian Xun looked up. “I brought lunch.”

Glancing at the elegantly dressed Meng Jingxue, he set the lunch box down on the table and said, “I won’t go to the cafeteria with you.”

“Where’s mine?” Shang Xuci asked, raising an eyebrow.

Slowly, Jian Xun pulled another lunch box from his hiding spot and looked at him expectantly. “I made it. Do you want some?”

Turning to Meng Jingxue, Shang Xuci said, “Sorry, I can’t go to the cafeteria with you.”

He lifted the lunch box slightly in her direction as explanation.

“Oh, I’ll go by myself then.” Meng Jingxue didn’t mind, but her curiosity piqued—she glanced toward the figure behind Shang Xuci.

Shang Xuci calmly stepped half a pace to block her view.

He reminded her, “If you don’t go to the cafeteria now, there won’t be a seat.”

Meng Jingxue smiled. “Then I’ll leave.”

Shang Xuci took Jian Xun to a lounge so they could eat alone. As they opened their lunch boxes, the aroma of rice filled the air.

Tomato, corn, and shrimp; honey-glazed chicken wings; pumpkin; and sweet potato rice.

No fish?

Shang Xuci glanced at Jian Xun.

Jian Xun opened his own lunch box: basa fish, braised fish, and sweet potato rice.

“No fish for me?”

Jian Xun paused, chopsticks in hand, and asked in confusion, “Don’t you dislike fish?”

“Who said that?”

“Then I’ll give you mine!” Jian Xun beamed, selecting the largest piece of fish and placing it in Shang Xuci’s bowl. He watched as Shang Xuci began eating quietly.

Shang Xuci chewed gracefully, met Jian Xun’s eyes, and said, “It’s delicious. You’ve made progress.”

“Really?” Jian Xun pursed his lips. “Compared to the cafeteria?”

Shang Xuci: “Hmm?”

“If you think it’s better than the cafeteria, I’ll make lunch for you every day!” Jian Xun thought for a moment, then added, “Not in the evenings or on weekends. Uncle Zhao’s cooking is amazing—I can’t compare.”

“You don’t have to compete with him,” Shang Xuci said, his gaze soft. “Just be yourself.”

“Then… do you agree?” Jian Xun asked, his eyes sparkling.

“Hmm.” Shang Xuci paused. “Do you like cooking?”

“Not really,” Jian Xun admitted shyly. He was too embarrassed to say, in front of a man, that he simply liked cooking for him. After all, it was the only thing he could offer.

When Shang Xuci continued staring at him expectantly, Jian Xun bit his lip and said, “I’m saving money, and it’s convenient to cook for myself.”

Unexpectedly, Shang Xuci asked, “Are you short on money?”

Jian Xun nodded seriously. “I want to save money to buy a house later.”

At that, Shang Xuci’s expression shifted slightly. Was the villa he had bought not big enough? Or… did Jian Xun still want to leave him?

Shang Xuci frowned, and suddenly even the food in his mouth seemed to lose its taste.

After finishing the last piece of basa fish, Jian Xun noticed the boss’s expression darken. Hesitating, he held the shrimp paste with his chopsticks but didn’t put it in his mouth. Nervously, he asked, “Isn’t it delicious?”

Shang Xuci shook his head, then took the shrimp paste and popped it into his mouth himself.

When would he tell Jian Xun that he wasn’t short of money, didn’t need to save, and didn’t need to buy a house—that he could give him whatever he wanted?

“Great! This is my first time making shrimp paste. I thought it wouldn’t taste good.” Jian Xun smiled brightly. In Shang Xuci’s eyes, it was as if he could see an invisible cat’s tail swaying behind him—swaying before flopping lazily to the side.

Forget it. Take your time.

At 5 p.m., Shang Xuci left for an impromptu dinner. Jian Xun was still busy at his workstation, racing against the clock, his phone lying to the side, unchecked.

Moonlight Club, Room 3801.

A comprehensive entertainment center combining dining, karaoke, and a bar.

As Shang Xuci reached the door, he heard the clinking of glasses and bursts of laughter from inside. Pushing the door open, he was met with a room full of handsome young men and beautiful women.

They were holding various items—most often wine bottles—hoping customers would place an order, or at least stay and drink with them.

The waiters all knew tonight’s guests were wealthy; the tips alone could easily match their annual salaries. Naturally, they rushed to put on their best smiles.

Shang Xuci scanned the room, his brow furrowed. He hated dining in places like this. Having to eat while surrounded by people wearing such lustful expressions was utterly revolting.

Seeing the man who entered with distinguished poise and striking features, someone boldly tried to approach. But Shang Xuci’s stern expression and cold glare quickly discouraged them.

He walked in and spotted his great-uncle, Shang Yan, who waved at him. Without breaking his gaze, Shang Xuci crossed the room and sat down on the opposite side.

Yun Qing glanced at Shang Yan—whose face had noticeably darkened—and asked softly, “Your great-uncle doesn’t look happy. Is that alright?”

“Don’t worry about him.” Shang Xuci’s eyes swept over the people at the table. “Isn’t Mr. Du here yet?”

Yun Qing checked his watch. “It’s already dinner time. He organized this meal—he wouldn’t stand us up, would he?”

Just as he finished speaking, the door opened and Du Guan walked in, smiling. “Sorry, I ran into something on the way.”

Following behind him was Shang Ye.

Shang Xuci narrowed his eyes, his gaze instantly locking on Shang Yan. As expected, Shang Yan’s expression shifted dramatically before he quickly regained composure.

According to the timeline, Shang Yan—the great-grandfather—had been trying to rope Shang Ye into investing. But amid the economic crisis, Shang Yan’s tourism resort project failed. Shang Ye’s involvement caused the Shang Group’s stock price to plummet.

For now, Shang Yan could still hide the problem, but within a few days the media would blow the news wide open. By then, Shang Ye would understand the severity of the situation and have no interest in attending dinners like this.

There was still one empty seat beside Shang Yan and another next to Shang Xuci. Du Guan glanced around the table before smiling and taking the seat beside Shang Xuci.

“Mr. Shang, long time no see,” Du Guan greeted him.

“Mr. Du.”

…

At ten o’clock that evening, Shang Xuci returned home and opened the door. The young man on the sofa turned at the sound.

Their eyes met. Hugging his knees, the young man’s eyes were faintly red, tears slipping down like tiny pearls, his expression full of grievance.

Shang Xuci felt his heart seize.

---

Shang Xuci’s heart raced, his breath hitching.

He stared at the young man in stunned silence.

Although he had suspected it, seeing this scene unfold in reality brought a brief resurgence of emotion.

Shang Xuci took a deep breath, turned, and left. He needed to calm down.

Garden Courtyard

Meng Jingxue carefully sipped the scented tea in her cup. She noticed Shang Xuci’s absent-mindedness — no matter what she said, he only responded with a faint “hmm.”

“I’m short of a male companion for tomorrow’s dinner. How about you come with me?” she asked.

“Yes.”

“You agreed!” Meng Jingxue quickly set down her cup. “Then it’s settled. You’ll accompany me tomorrow.”

Shang Xuci, regaining his composure, glanced at her and changed the subject. “Isn’t Doctor Meng allergic to cats?”

Meng Jingxue blinked. “Yes?”

“I’ll take Sui Sui with me.”

Xu Huai would definitely attend the Xu family’s grandfather’s birthday party. He had to ask him something.

Sui Sui was unlike any other cat. After returning to the villa, he seemed transformed — sometimes lively, sometimes as still as a doll.

That day, when he left the dinner to look for the cat, Jian Xun had appeared in that remote place. His eyes, small movements, and little habits were all just like Sui Sui’s.

Thinking back further — to his first meeting with Jian Xun, and the way Jian Xun had protected the cat — everything that once seemed irrational now made sense, his suspicions confirmed.

Just now, seeing Jian Xun reveal his cat ears had filled him with mixed emotions. But now, he felt calm.

His mind, however, was no longer on anything else.

The sunset was intoxicating.

Shang Xuci sent Meng Jingxue away and returned to the cat house more quickly than usual. He searched inside and out, but the cat was nowhere to be seen.

The housekeeper and his men approached. “Sir, should we install it now?”

“Yes.”

The setting sun streamed through the glass window. Standing there, Shang Xuci’s expression was unwavering. He reached out to draw the curtains, then turned back and added, “Install one in my bedroom too.”

“Okay.”

With long strides, Shang Xuci went downstairs and sat at the tea table by the entrance, reaching for his phone to call Jian Xun.

Suddenly, a meow echoed from outside the door.

A rustling, low, and slightly unpleasant cat call.

Shang Xuci put down his phone, his eyes falling on the door.

Click—

The sound of something heavy dropping, the doorknob turning, and then a chubby, slightly dusty cat stepped in first.

Another followed, shuffling inside, kicking the door shut with its hind legs before heading straight for the paw pad. It placed all four paws on it, giving them a perfunctory wipe, then stared up at the entrance light in confusion.

Why aren’t they turning on the light?

Looking over, the cat spotted Shang Xuci sitting in the tea room, cup in hand, watching him. The cat’s eyes lit up, and he trotted over with a distinctly feline gait, unconcerned with the imposing figures around him.

So many big shots!

His expression was dazed, his steps swaying slightly, as if intoxicated.

He reached Shang Xuci’s feet, glanced up, and—without hesitation—leapt onto his lap, meowing and rubbing against his chest.

That wasn’t enough. Growing bolder, he reached out with his claws to tug at the man’s clothes, then stood on his hind legs to try climbing higher. But his legs were weak and trembling. Unable to continue, he simply gazed up at Shang Xuci, putting on his cutest act.

“Meow~ Woo!”

He stretched out his front paws, asking for a hug.

Afraid he might fall, Shang Xuci supported the cat’s rump. With the help, the cat climbed up, finally reaching Shang Xuci’s neck. His eyes were wet as he pressed his face into the back of Shang Xuci’s head, nuzzling, asking for a kiss.

Shang Xuci’s mind flashed to the image of his human, Jian Xun, and he instinctively turned away.

As if by accident, he turned back and curled the cat into a ball on his lap.

The cat, stunned, unfolded from the ball, stood up again, and turned to climb back.

Had he just been avoided?

Stick to it.

Don’t you want to stick to it anymore?

No!

I want to stick to it.

I absolutely have to stick to it!

The cat threw himself at Shang Xuci again. This time, Shang Xuci didn’t dodge. The cat nudged him fiercely, then nestled contentedly in his lap.

Shang Xuci stroked him, from head to rump, pinching and rubbing his paw pads as he murmured:

“Sui Sui.”

He gazed at the snow-white cat lying defenseless in his arms, letting him have his way.

From the day Sui Sui returned, he would remain by his side forever.

Whether it was Sui Sui or Jian Xun.

At first glance, Jian Xun’s identity seemed simple, but in reality, it was riddled with loopholes, with large portions of his past left blank. Shang Xuci had once ignored such gaps out of gratitude for a favor. But now that he knew Jian Xun’s true nature, his curiosity was piqued.

What was Sui Sui’s origin? A demon?

Shang Xuci had once dismissed such notions. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, animals were forbidden from becoming demons. But now that he himself had been reborn, he could no longer entirely disbelieve.

Still, he didn’t dare ask Jian Xun. The young man clearly wanted to keep this secret from him. Shang Xuci feared that, like last time, Jian Xun would disappear—feared that he would leave him, feared he would never find the cat again.

He couldn’t bear the thought of losing Sui Sui a second time.

Shang Xuci carried the cat back to its bed, tucked in the quilt, and returned to the house.

…

The Xu Family’s Birthday Party

Shang Xuci brought the snow-white cat along. As he stepped out of the car, he ran into Meng Jingxue. Upon seeing her sneeze, the big white cat instinctively jumped to the ground and squatted behind Shang Xuci.

The Xu family’s housekeeper recognized him and quickly stepped forward. “We have a special play area for cats. Would you like me to take yours there?”

Before Shang Xuci could answer, the cat took the initiative, walking over to the housekeeper with a bright “Meow!”

Shang Xuci said, “Take him there.”

“Don’t worry, we have someone to look after the cats,” the housekeeper assured him.

“Let’s go together?” Meng Jingxue touched her nose and smiled.

Shang Xuci went straight to the room where Old Master Xu was staying. He explained that Old Master Shang was recuperating and couldn’t visit his old friend in person, so he had come to deliver the gift on his behalf.

Old Master Xu was delighted.

Once the pleasantries were over, Shang Xuci sent a message to Xu Huai.

Since the two had started working together, Xu Huai’s career had flourished—but that also made him a target. The Xu family had tried to lure him back.

The Xu family wasn’t short of talent, but by Shang Xuci’s generation, its descendants had begun to decline. Some had ended up in jail, some in the hospital, and some—obsessed with love—had abandoned the family business entirely, moving abroad with their wives. The rest were a hopeless bunch.

When New Domain and the Xu family’s company were competing for the latest smart-car market, Old Master Xu discovered that the mastermind behind the scenes was actually a member of the Xu family—a sign, perhaps, of a return to one’s roots.

Shang Xuci knew Xu Huai’s character, but he didn’t know what the Xu family had said to him. He had tried to persuade Xu Huai to return to them.

In the end, Xu Huai hadn’t taken part in the Xu family’s affairs, and Shang Xuci hadn’t pressed him. This time, however, he wasn’t here to talk about work.

The two sat together in a quiet corner of the balcony.

Xu Huai wore loose casual clothes, his hair brushing his shoulders. He looked haggard and listless—nothing like the refined young man Shang Xuci had first met.

Seeing him in such a state, Shang Xuci could guess the cause. It made him all the more grateful that his precious child had returned; otherwise, he himself wouldn’t be faring much better.

“Haven’t you found him yet?”

“I’m not as lucky as you. I hurt him, and now he doesn’t want to see me.” Xu Huai smiled bitterly.

“Cats need to be coaxed,” Xu Huai continued. “I knew he held a grudge, but I still did something to upset him. I deserved it…”

Perhaps because Shang Xuci had gone through a similar experience, Xu Huai couldn’t help but pour out his emotions.

Shang Xuci listened quietly, then poured him a glass of wine. He asked directly, “Is it because he’s changed?”

Xu Huai’s body stiffened, and he slowly raised his eyes.

…

It was almost nine o’clock when the sky began to rain.

Seeing Xu Huai passed out drunk at the table, Shang Xuci had him carried back to his room. He sat outside for a long while, letting the slanting rain soak his white shirt and send a chill through him. Only then did he put on his coat and get up to look for the cat.

Cat House

The lion cat hid in a cardboard box, bored and avoiding the other cats. Only after the caretaker went to rest did he transform back into a human, crouching in the corner with his legs tucked in.

Even though they had brought him out “to play,” he was still being left in another cat’s room. The big white cat was not happy at all.

Besides Jian Xun—the lion cat—the room also housed a tabby cat, an orange cat, a Jianzhou cat, and a cow cat.

The “cat boss” was the tabby. Unlike Xu Tutu, the tabby was openly hostile toward Jian Xun and even said something baffling: “You smell like him.”

He? Who?

The big white cat looked bewildered.

The tabby circled him and said arrogantly, “This is my territory. You’d better not mess around, or I’ll be rude.”

Tsk, your room isn’t even as big as my toilet.

The big white cat sneered in disdain and found a spot to lie down.

The other cats were curious, sniffing at him, but the big white cat showed no interest. He simply curled up and waited obediently for Shang Xuci to come take him home.

While glancing around the room, he spotted a familiar photo on the wall—it was his brother, Tutu!

Is this Tutu’s owner’s house?!

Jian Xun recalled how Xu Tutu had once told him that, before he learned to transform, he’d been anxious whenever his owner wasn’t home during the day. Later, once he grew older and more capable, he would go out to play, returning only when his owner came back.

Back then, he had only played nearby, never venturing too far. Xu Huai didn’t restrict his freedom, and it wasn’t considered running away.

The real “runaway” happened the first time Xu Tutu transformed into a human. Xu Huai’s distant and unaccepting attitude drove him away.

Later, Xu Tutu happened to run into Xu Huai at school and was caught. He was brought home again, where Xu Huai apologized, gave him his freedom, taught him about the human world, and allowed him to live as either human or cat.

The second time he ran away—from then until now—Jian Xun had asked him why, but Xu Tutu had been evasive and unwilling to explain. Jian Xun hadn’t pressed.

It was obvious it was Xu Huai’s fault!

Look at the cat in this room!

Look at the arrogant demeanor of this so-called Cat King! Jian Xun’s gaze shifted to the tabby cat sprawled on the cat climbing frame, leering down at him with condescending eyes, as if daring him to move so it could teach him a lesson.

This cat’s appearance and personality were exactly like Xu Tutu No. 2—and it even had a double. No wonder Xu Tutu had run away from home. Who would want to endure such injustice?

Jian Xun pictured the scene and felt an immediate kinship.

When he had first come home and seen the cat in the boss’s arms, he had almost torn it apart!

“Sui Sui.” The doorknob turned, and the man’s voice called out. The big white cat immediately darted to the door.

Shang Xuci picked up the cat, adjusted its position, pinched its pink paw pads, and curved his thin lips slightly. “Let’s go home.”

As soon as he finished speaking, the big white cat pressed against his shoulder, its nose twitching as it sniffed at his mouth.

“Meow~”

Have you been drinking?!

“Don’t move.” Shang Xuci caught the cat’s arm and gently set it down before pulling out his phone to call a designated driver. He had originally planned not to drink during this trip, but after hearing Xu Huai’s confession, he had ended up sharing a few more drinks with him.

When the bus was almost at the Xu house, Shang Xuci stood at the roadside with the cat in his arms.

A heavy rain had delayed the bus. Shang Xuci held the cat close under an umbrella.

The fresh scent of rain and the thawed east wind after the beginning of spring lingered in the air. The clamor of the city faded in the downpour. Raindrops pattered on the ground, rooftops, and lush green leaves, weaving a peaceful, beautiful scene.

At the bus stop, Shang Xuci huddled under the umbrella with the cat, as if they were the only two in the world.

Jian Xun loved this feeling, purring uncontrollably, his paws kneading in contentment.

“Sneezy—”

The cat in his arms suddenly sneezed. Shang Xuci, still holding him, reached to touch his tail, which was curled around his arm. It was slightly damp from the drizzle carried by the wind.

Frowning, Shang Xuci took off his coat and wrapped it around the cat.

The sturdy lion cat lay on his father’s chest like a small baby, bundled up with only his furry head exposed. His ears twitched, and his claws gripped the fabric over Shang Xuci’s shoulder, trying not to let it slip.

The ten-minute journey stretched to half an hour. Shang Xuci sat in the car with his eyes closed, resting.

In the enclosed space, the intoxicating fragrance of his scent grew stronger to Jian Xun’s senses.

Shang Xuci kept his eyes shut even when the navigation system announced they were almost home.

The cat, motionless on his chest, stared intently at his face. His 28-inch side-slicked-back hairstyle, slightly parted and shaved at the sides, lent him a sharp, masculine air. Quietly, the cat extended a paw and stealthily poked the man’s handsome face, savoring the smooth feel of his skin—and pressing harder without thinking.

Then he was caught.

As the car rolled to a stop, the man opened his eyes, lowered them, and fixed his gaze on the cat. His voice was slightly hoarse. “Don’t move.”

The cat blinked innocently, trying to play cute. “Meow~”

Once they were home, the cat immediately began licking his fur. Shang Xuci took his pajamas and went into the bathroom to shower.

When he came out, the cat was squatting in the doorway, staring at him.

After blow-drying his hair, Shang Xuci sat in the teahouse with his cat in his lap, sipping hangover soup.

The cat lay sprawled across his legs without the slightest dignity, occasionally smacking his lips in deep sleep.

Jian Xun was dreaming. He dreamed of things falling from the sky like leaves. When he walked closer—wow—it was raining money!

The cat, dressed in luxurious clothes, performed a magical transformation. Pointing his arms toward the sky, hips twitching, he chanted a spell—Transform!

He rolled over from his prone position, four legs in the air, his soft white belly rising and falling with each breath. His two front paws waved unconsciously in the dream, his hind paws stomped against Shang Xuci’s body, and his front paws pointed skyward.

“Meow, meow, meow!”

Shang Xuci glanced down at the cat. Eyes shut, lips smacking—he was actually talking in his sleep!

He pulled out his phone to record the cute, ridiculous scene.

The corners of his lips curved faintly.

After coughing twice, he carried the cat back to the bedroom to sleep.

Lying in bed, the dream shifted.

The cat tried every magical transformation he knew but still couldn’t turn into a human. Frustrated, he began picking up coins with his paws.

After collecting a small pile, he rushed off to buy dried fish. Several large boxes clattered around him. The cat gnawed greedily, grunting until his white belly bulged into a little mound. Then he stretched and continued picking up coins.

Suddenly, the ground gave way beneath him. Coins and dried fish tumbled into the void. Jian Xun fell with them. Looking down, he saw a vast lava field. Even before he landed, the heat surged up to meet him.

Terrified, the cat flailed, digging at the air with all four paws in a desperate attempt to climb back up—

Jian Xun woke with a start. The quilt felt unusually hot. He immediately noticed Shang Xuci’s body temperature was far higher than normal. Slipping out from under the covers, he gently pressed a paw pad to Shang Xuci’s forehead.

!!!

The cat froze. Why is he so hot?!

“Meow?!”

The big white cat pressed a paw to Shang Xuci’s shoulder and pushed hard, trying to wake him.

But the man lay unresponsive, as if in a coma.

Jian Xun tried to transform into a human, but it felt like being trapped in a dream within a dream—no matter how he tried, he couldn’t change.

Jumping out of bed, the cat turned on the light and patted his face gently. This time, Shang Xuci’s eyes opened, empty and lifeless, without focus or reaction.

This could be serious—he needs a doctor.

Jian Xun dashed downstairs to the housekeeper’s room. He jumped at the doorknob only to find it locked. Panic swirled in his chest. Why is this happening now?!

He scratched frantically at the door, meowing as loudly and desperately as he could.

The housekeeper, hearing the distressed cries, got up and opened the door.

Seeing him emerge, Jian Xun meowed urgently. He couldn’t transform right now—he was so anxious, it was as if the words were on the tip of his tongue in human language.

The housekeeper, noticing the cat’s agitation, immediately sensed something was wrong.

The cat tugged at the housekeeper’s trouser leg and walked ahead.

Still unsure, the housekeeper asked, “Did something happen to the master?”

He knew that Sui Sui had been carried into the master’s room to sleep with him that night. The cat’s urgent behavior could only mean something had happened to Shang Xuci.

“Meow!”

Letting go of the trouser leg, Jian Xun headed upstairs, the housekeeper following close behind.

Inside the bedroom, the housekeeper touched Shang Xuci’s forehead. “It’s burning! He’s running a fever!”

He quickly called the family doctor.

The doctor arrived shortly after and administered a fever-reducing injection.

Once the doctor left, the housekeeper dozed off nearby. The cat curled up beside Shang Xuci, quietly leaning against him. Before long, a young man appeared in the room.

He gently nudged the housekeeper and said, “Grandpa Housekeeper, go rest. I’ll take care of the boss.”

After the housekeeper left, Jian Xun replaced the towel on Shang Xuci’s forehead with a fresh cold one, propping himself up on his arm and watching over him.

By dawn, Jian Xun had drifted off to sleep. When he woke, Shang Xuci was still unconscious. The housekeeper took over and told Jian Xun to have breakfast and get some rest.

Jian Xun carried the clothes Shang Xuci had changed out of the bedroom.

It wasn’t until noon that Shang Xuci finally opened his eyes.

“Sir, you’re awake! I’ll have Jian Xun bring you your medicine.”

When Jian Xun entered, Shang Xuci sat up, rubbing his temples, recalling how he had fallen asleep holding his cat before the fever began…

“Boss, take your medicine.” Jian Xun, seeing he was awake, tried to hide his relief as he brought the spoon to Shang Xuci’s lips.

Shang Xuci shook his head and took the bowl. “I’ll do it myself.”

He tipped his head back and drank it in one go.

Noticing a few strands of white cat hair clinging to his clothes, Shang Xuci glanced around. “Where’s the cat?”

“I put him back in the cat house,” Jian Xun replied quickly. “Do you want me to bring him over?”

Shang Xuci gave Jian Xun a long look. “No. I don’t want him catching anything.”

Jian Xun murmured, “That’s impossible. He slept with you all night, you know.”

“What did you say?”

“Ah—I said human illnesses can’t be passed to cats.”

The housekeeper interjected, “It was Sui Sui’s frantic knocking and constant meowing that made me realize you were sick, sir.”

“And Jian Xun stayed by your side all night,” he added.

“Ah, it was nothing,” Jian Xun said quickly, lowering his head with a shy flush. “It’s what I should do.”

Shang Xuci parted his lips slightly and said, “I’ll add 500 to your salary.”

Jian Xun: !!

---

Where was the boy in the room?

Shang Xuci switched on the dim light, leaned in to look at the adorable cat with its head tilted to one side, and called softly, “Sui Sui?”

At the sound of his voice, the cat excitedly wagged its tail, stepped forward, and rubbed coquettishly against his waist.

“When did you come?” Shang Xuci petted the cat’s head. “Did anyone else come into the room just now?”

He had always known Sui Sui was intelligent and could understand human speech, so he asked the question directly.

The cat, who usually meowed whenever spoken to, didn’t respond this time. Instead, it lay obediently at his waist, its claws gripping his pajamas tightly.

Shang Xuci lay back on the bed, lifted the cat, and tucked the blanket around them. He touched his left cheek, where the faint scent of flowers still lingered.

That wasn’t an illusion, nor a dream.

Jian Xun had indeed entered his room.

And… kissed him.

His long, narrow phoenix eyes narrowed slightly, a strange emotion flickering within his calm gaze.

He’s not annoying!?

It’s only been such a short time, and he’s already this bold.

Shang Xuci still remembered their first meeting—the boy had been like a timid little rabbit, only daring to sneak glances at him.

Thinking of this, his hand reached out to grope for the warm, round ball beside him.

“Meow~”

The cat’s paw tapped his hand.

A furry head popped out from under the covers, gazing up at him with a pitiful look.

Shang Xuci lowered his head and touched the cat’s forehead. “Be good. Go to sleep.”

“Meow~”

The cat’s paw rested gently on the back of his hand.

Those beautiful azure eyes overlapped in his mind with the boy’s. Shang Xuci froze for two seconds, then lowered his head, lost in thought. That strange feeling stirred again… and the result was a seed of doubt buried deep in his heart, already beginning to take root and sprout.

After his breathing steadied, the cat—whose eyes had been tightly shut—suddenly opened them, stretched its neck, and lifted its chin to look around.

Scared to death.

It had almost been exposed.

Next time, he would just turn into a cat and climb onto the bed.

But he always worried that the transformation wouldn’t last long enough, and his true identity would be exposed.

Sigh.

He’d think about it later.

The cat tucked in its neck, pulled its paws close, and went back to sleep.

I’ll just get up early tomorrow.

Tomorrow, he had to stay at his big brother’s place.

Before long, the kitten was softly snoring, its familiar purr rumbling through the darkness.

Shang Xuci hugged the furry cat and drifted into a deep sleep.

…

Saturday.

Shang Xuci sat on the sofa, a magazine resting casually on his lap. A cup of coffee was in one hand, the other hand flipping through the pages.

His gaze occasionally flicked toward the kitchen doorway, whether intentionally or not. The housekeeper, seeing right through him, said, “Jian Xun went home today.”

“Home?” Shang Xuci raised his brows slightly. “Didn’t he move into the staff quarters? Or rent a place outside?”

The housekeeper replied, “I didn’t ask, but I saw Xiao Xun happily packing his things. He must be meeting someone important.”

Shang Xuci lowered his eyes, his fingers curling slightly on the page. He paused for a few seconds before continuing to flip through.

…

Completely unaware, Jian Xun was out shopping with Xu Tutu. They planned to have hot pot for dinner and a big meal for lunch.

Winning the lottery really made a difference—Xu Tutu’s energy had completely changed. He swiped his card without even blinking.

Still, most of what he bought were daily necessities, and he wasn’t the type to splurge. After buying the house, he hadn’t saved much.

But as a big brother, Xu Tutu was never stingy when it came to Jian Xun.

They bought new clothes, shoes, and a big bag of snacks. Carrying their heavy bags, they walked home side by side.

If they had been cats, they would have been pressed close together, moving in sync, their tails swaying in unison, with identical happy expressions.

…

Jian Xun told Xu Tutu about his part-time work at the big villa. When he mentioned the fish in the lake, he couldn’t help wanting to bring Xu Tutu along to catch them. Unfortunately, the time wasn’t right yet—he planned to invite him openly once he had built a good relationship with the boss.

Happy times always passed quickly. For two days, the “two cats” stayed in the room, watching Tom and Jerry and snacking on dried fish.

Jian Xun and Xu Tutu agreed that he would come back every weekend.

…

Monday came—the most dreaded of days.

Jian Xun got up early and hurried back to Ludao Garden.

The subway was packed with people, and it took considerable effort to squeeze in. When he switched to the bus, the heavy traffic caused a jam.

He was late.

Fortunately, there was no time clock to punch.

Jian Xun’s pace was quicker than usual.

The courtyard was unusually quiet. He returned to his room, put away his schoolbag, changed into casual clothes, and headed back toward the villa.

Pushing open the door, he stepped into the living room, looked around, but saw no one. Instinctively, he made his way to the kitchen.

Uncle Zhao should be back by now. What delicious food would he make today?

He also wanted to ask him how to cook tasty fish.

But the kitchen was empty as well. Voices drifted in from the garden, so Jian Xun ran to the window to peek outside.

A figure in a black tuxedo, with graying hair and a straight back—Jian Xun nodded to himself. Yes, that had to be the butler.

He was about to call out when he noticed someone staring right at him.

“Shang Xuci!” he blurted.

“No—Boss!” Jian Xun quickly corrected himself, pulling his head back, leaning against the wall, and patting his chest to calm down.

“Why isn’t he working today?” he murmured under his breath, clasping his hands and staring at his feet. After a pause, he started to stand—only to see a pair of polished black handmade leather shoes stop in front of him.

Jian Xun looked up to find two hands extended toward him. He placed his own in them, using the help to stand, then brushed himself off and asked casually, “Is the boss not working today?”

Shang Xuci glanced at him and pressed his lips into a faint line. “Have you ever seen a boss who works every single day?”

Jian Xun thought to himself, Today’s Monday… and he doesn’t work on weekends.

“Come on—Uncle Zhao’s about to start cooking.”

At that, Jian Xun instinctively glanced toward the door, where Chef Zhao greeted him.

After the boss left the kitchen, Uncle Zhao stepped inside and said, “Thank you for your hard work these past few days.”

“The housekeeper told me you’ve done a great job.” He patted Jian Xun on the shoulder before starting to tidy the kitchen.

“It’s not hard,” Jian Xun replied with a smile.

He was about to head out to work when Shang Xuci called him to the study.

It turned out to be more like keeping him company than serving him.

Jian Xun sat across from Shang Xuci, flipping through a beautifully illustrated book. In front of him was an assortment of freshly baked cookies and a steaming glass of sweet tea.

The chair was so soft that he could curl up and read. Whenever he felt hungry, he’d nibble on the crispy, fragrant cookies; when he was thirsty, he’d sip the hot, sweet tea.

Shang Xuci didn’t keep giving him orders. The quiet atmosphere was so comfortable that Jian Xun felt as if the weekend’s bliss had simply carried over into the week.

Of course, he never forgot his role. After finishing a page, he would glance at Shang Xuci’s snack tray and coffee cup. If either was running low, he’d immediately get up to refill it.

Unfortunately, even after he had finished his own biscuit and emptied his teacup—his belly slightly swollen—the other person’s plate still had all its biscuits.

There was even half a cup of coffee left.

Shang Xuci was wrapping up a meeting, instructing the staff to follow the plan. After turning off the video, he finally allowed himself to look at the other person in the room.

If he remembered correctly, this wasn’t the first time the boy had been caught staring at his plate. The boy’s own snack was long gone, and now his gaze was fixed on his.

Shang Xuci picked up a biscuit and said, “Take it.”

Jian Xun didn’t hesitate. He eagerly got up to accept it, adding with a smile, “Boss, I’ll refill your coffee.”

“No need.” Shang Xuci picked up the teacup on the table and poured himself more tea. “I’ll have tea instead.”

“Oh.” Jian Xun’s voice dropped, a hint of disappointment in it as he held the biscuit.

Shang Xuci’s phone buzzed. He glanced at the menu Uncle Zhao had sent, set the phone down, and asked, “What do you want for lunch?”

Jian Xun thought for a moment before answering, “Fish! I want fish the most.”

But with Uncle Zhao cooking, there would be no leftovers for him later—Shang Xuci didn’t like fish.

Jian Xun looked at him eagerly, wondering if lunch would be like a cat happily gnawing on dried fish. From the last time he had cleaned, he already knew where all the cat snacks were stored.

“I see,” Shang Xuci said simply.

He circled a few dishes on the menu and sent it back to Uncle Zhao.

…

Lunch time.

Jian Xun had just come downstairs when his nose twitched. The fresh aroma drifting through the air nearly made him lose his mind.

“Smells so good!” Jian Xun licked his lips, secretly praying for Shang Xuci to eat less so he could have more.

“Jian Xun, the master wants you to come eat.”

“Oh, me? Can I?” Jian Xun could hardly believe his luck.

So that was why the boss had asked him about his favorite food this morning.

Overjoyed, he hurried over. Uncle Zhao said, “We made a lot of fish.”

Jian Xun’s eyes stayed glued to the table. Once Shang Xuci told him to sit, he quickly served himself rice—then immediately turned his attention to the fish.

In front of him were three dishes: one grilled fish, one steamed fish, and a pot of spicy boiled fish.

The boiled fish dish was closest to Jian Xun. The sizzling pot bubbled with fragrant broth, and the fish inside was pristine—almost beautiful. Each fillet was sliced as thin as a cicada’s wing and perfectly portioned. On closer inspection, every tiny bone had been removed, leaving only tender, delicate flesh.

When he placed a fillet in his mouth, the smooth, savory flavor spread instantly, and the fragrance of the fish lingered long after.

“Delicious, so delicious!” Jian Xun gave Uncle Zhao a big thumbs-up, showering him with praise.

Then, with tears in his eyes, he turned to Shang Xuci. “No wonder you didn’t like my fish.”

I didn’t blame him.

I really didn’t blame him.

Uncle Zhao’s cooking was amazing!

Being praised for his food was the greatest compliment a chef could receive.

Without hesitation, Uncle Zhao said, “Next time I cook fish, you can watch and learn from me.”

Jian Xun’s grin widened as he happily returned to eating.

Only the housekeeper watched this scene with a thoughtful expression. Mr. Shang was treating this young man, who had only recently arrived, with unusual attentiveness—even inviting him to dine at the same table. Could it be that he had finally come to his senses?

Then again, Jian Xun had saved Shang Xuci’s beloved cat. Perhaps his fondness for the boy was only gratitude, and the housekeeper was overthinking it.

…

By afternoon, the weather had cleared. The gray sky gave way to sunlight that peeked through the clouds.

Shang Xuci sat on the sofa, playing with the cat using a laser pointer.

Jian Xun stood nearby, subtly trying to control the cat’s activity level—until Shang Xuci unexpectedly called him over.

Chasing the red dot was one of Sui Sui’s favorite games, and the cat played until he was nearly too tired to move.

Jian Xun kept his eyes fixed on the moving light, directing his “cat stand-in” to pounce at just the right moment. Floor, table legs, walls… the cat leapt about like a little tiger.

Shang Xuci bent his head, twirling the pen-like pointer in his fingers, drawing the cat’s attention.

He was playing with remarkable focus.

Jian Xun matched that intensity, his full attention locked on his double, eyes following every dart of movement.

Shang Xuci glanced over casually—then paused when he noticed the boy staring a bit too intently at the laser pointer.

The cat pounced, and the red dot landed squarely on its snow-white head.

“Sui Sui.”

Shang Xuci reached out, and the white lion cat trotted over to rub against his palm.

Then Shang Xuci lifted his gaze—meeting Jian Xun’s eyes. The boy, caught off guard, quickly looked away.

“Let’s go out and get some sunshine.” Shang Xuci carried the cat into the back garden.

The housekeeper instructed Uncle Zhao to prepare some afternoon tea snacks. Miss Meng Jingxue would be visiting today.

Jian Xun asked in surprise, “What’s Miss Meng doing here?”

The housekeeper smiled. “Miss Meng Jingxue and Master have been childhood sweethearts. They’re very close and should visit more often. I’ve never seen Master smile at anyone like that.”

Uncle Zhao joined the conversation, exchanging a knowing look with the housekeeper. “Perhaps soon, this house will have more than one mistress.”

“But… but,” Jian Xun said softly, staring at his toes and biting his lip. “Isn’t she allergic to cats?”

The housekeeper shrugged. “That’s why they built a separate floor just for Sui Sui.”

Jian Xun looked up in disbelief, his eyes dimming.

“Is that so?”

“Isn’t it?” The butler arranged the desserts Uncle Zhao had brought out, then turned to ask, “What do you think?”

Uncle Zhao had only met Meng Jingxue once. She was a beauty with a distinct personality and a forthright nature. He nodded.

“With a mistress and a child, the big house would feel much livelier.”

The butler agreed, and the two continued discussing the topic.

A dull ache formed in Jian Xun’s stomach. He didn’t want to linger with them any longer. Snatching up the dessert basket, he said, “I’ll take it.”

The afternoon sun spilled golden light across the garden, where a variety of flowers swayed gently in the breeze, releasing bursts of fragrance.

The garden path was paved with cobblestones, and an elegant fountain stood at its center. Surrounding the fountain were neatly manicured lawns, like a giant emerald.

Carrying the food box, Jian Xun glanced around—when he suddenly felt a tap on his shoulder.

“Boss… Boss…” Jian Xun turned, bewilderment on his face.

“Just give me the stuff.”

Sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the lush green grass. Jian Xun quietly watched the man walk away.

Suddenly, a gust of wind swept through.

A faint, intoxicating fragrance drifted toward him, and the boy’s round, azure eyes instantly widened—his pupils narrowing like an animal’s for a brief moment.

He froze, as if catching an unusual scent. His nose twitched slightly, tracing the heady aroma.

Jian Xun’s attention locked onto a patch of green grass. He approached it with eager focus, only to discover it was catnip.

Crouching down, he inhaled deeply.

The stronger the scent of catnip became, the more his excitement swelled uncontrollably. He cradled a large clump of it in his arms, sniffing it as if it were a precious flower—greedily, almost reverently—until his expression melted into pure ecstasy, as though he wanted to absorb the fragrance into his very being.

When Shang Xuci returned, he was greeted by a startling sight.

The boy was squatting on the ground, clutching the catnip, eyes closed, breathing in its scent with unrestrained, almost possessive delight.

And perched atop his head… were a pair of furry cat ears, swaying gently, along with a large, fluffy tail.

---

Shang Xuci took him to the adjacent utility room and applied some painkillers to Jian Xun’s wound.

The man’s dark eyes focused on the injury, his large hands moving gently as he applied the medicine.

“Does it hurt?” His voice softened like a spring breeze.

Jian Xun was stunned. He had never seen a boss show such concern for anyone before.

He pressed further. “Can you blow on it?”

Shang Xuci paused. “? ?”

Jian Xun stared up at him without blinking. “Blow on the wound. I was injured before, and blowing on it healed it.”

Shang Xuci interrupted ruthlessly. “That’s just a joke. If you’re injured, you should see a doctor. Treatment is the only thing that works.”

Jian Xun frowned slightly. “You weren’t like this before. Didn’t you blow on Sui Sui?”

He puffed his cheeks, his expression slightly displeased.

Shang Xuci applied more medicine and pinched his cheek. “Smile.”

Jian Xun pouted. “I can’t smile.”

Shang Xuci glanced at him calmly. “Add five hundred to your salary.”

Jian Xun immediately broke into a brilliant smile, as if the pain from his previous injury had been an illusion.

Shang Xuci: “…”

He suddenly seemed to have mastered the art of soothing a child.

Shang Xuci stood, ruffled Jian Xun’s hair, and said, “Pay attention to where you’re walking next time. Don’t stare at the bookshelf.”

Jian Xun muttered softly, following him. “Who made your study so big? You have to run quite a distance just to get something.”

Still preoccupied with his meal, Jian Xun watched Shang Xuci take his first bite with a spoon before pointing to the bookshelf. “Boss, can I read a book?”

Shang Xuci raised his eyelids slightly. “As you wish.”

Jian Xun beamed, picked up the cat illustration he had just noticed, and sat across from Shang Xuci. Like an elementary school student in class, he straightened his back, placed his hands on the table, and studied the illustration intently.

Shang Xuci elegantly finished his fried rice. Jian Xun immediately stood and walked over to clear the table. “I’ll put the plates away.”

He picked up the plates, glanced at his empty coffee cup, then carried both in his hands and briskly walked out.

Shang Xuci stared at his back, not withdrawing his gaze until the door gently closed.

The room returned to silence.

Shang Xuci closed the book in his hands and shut his eyes to rest.

“Click.”

The door opened again.

Shang Xuci opened his eyes and looked up.

The study door had opened just a crack, revealing a small head.

“Boss, can I come up and read after I finish washing the dishes?”

Shang Xuci glanced at the open cat illustration on the table and said calmly, “Bring Sui Sui here.”

Jian Xun: “…Okay.”

The young man looked visibly disappointed, his eyelashes drooping.

Shang Xuci couldn’t help but add, “Tell the butler to bring up another plate of snacks.”

Jian Xun: “Okay.”

The door closed again.

Jian Xun, descending the stairs, tugged at the two strings on his sweatshirt and sighed. If he had known, he wouldn’t have asked. This way, he could turn into a cat, openly enter the study to look at the illustrations, and even sleep on the boss’s lap.

But the boss had just patted his head!

Jian Xun smiled sweetly, patted his head again, and hummed a song as he went downstairs to get some snacks.

The only snack left was a small, delicate cake. It had a slightly golden rim and a white cream top, adorned with a fresh strawberry and finely chopped chocolate, giving it an alluring hue. The round, chewy surface seemed to invite a bite.

Jian Xun inhaled the aroma and felt a surge of greed.

The chef was away, and with only this one piece of cake left, Jian Xun shook off the urge to eat, arranged the cake delicately, and carried it upstairs.

There were still twenty pages of illustrations left. Jian Xun checked the time and realized he had an hour.

No rush.

He wanted to finish reading and then go back.

Jian Xun glanced at Shang Xuci, who was also reading, and quietly sat down on the bench.

Since he had entered, the boss hadn’t even looked up at him.

A sweet, enticing aroma filled the air, awakening Jian Xun’s taste buds. The blend of vanilla, butter, and sugar whetted his appetite.

After smelling it, Jian Xun’s mind drifted away from the illustrations. The page he was reading still featured a kitten enjoying a delicious meal, which only made him hungrier.

He hadn’t eaten dinner yet, and by now, he was already ravenous.

His gaze gradually shifted from the cake to Shang Xuci. Seeing that he barely moved his fingers, turning the pages without even touching the cake, Jian Xun’s heart itched even more.

Was he going to eat it or not?

Jian Xun slumped forward, elbows resting on the table, chin propped up, staring blankly at the cake.

He’d pick up a late-night snack on the way home. If he came across a dessert shop that was still open, he’d buy two of the same cakes—one for Xu Tutu and one for himself.

Jian Xun was already imagining the taste of the cakes, grinning foolishly.

Shang Xuci inadvertently caught a glimpse of his silly expression, his voice smooth and magnetic.

“Jian Xun.”

Jian Xun subconsciously reached up and lightly brushed his lips, panicking. “Boss, what did you say?”

“Eat the cake.”

Jian Xun: “???”

Shang Xuci pushed the cake toward him.

“A dessert for the kids.”

Jian Xun’s eyes instantly brightened. “Can I have some?”

Shang Xuci: “Who else but you?”

Jian Xun was so excited he almost wanted to pounce on him.

“Boss, you’re so kind!”

His head itched—he wanted to turn into a cat, rub against it, and cling to Shang Xuci’s neck!

Jian Xun focused on eating the cake. It was soft, sticky, and sweet—just as delicious as he’d imagined!

A can of drink appeared in front of him.

Jian Xun looked up at the man in confusion.

Shang Xuci said, “It’s a relief.”

Seeing the cream on the corner of Jian Xun’s mouth and his satisfied smile, Shang Xuci’s heart skipped a beat. It seemed his emotions were easily influenced by the young man. He tore off a piece of paper and opened the can.

Jian Xun didn’t even glance at it; he simply picked up the drink and gulped it down.

“Ah, delicious!” Jian Xun sighed contentedly, rubbing his belly and narrowing his eyes.

Shang Xuci didn’t even notice the slight curl of his lips. His gaze returned to the book, his thoughts turning a thousand times. These past few days, he seemed constantly aware of Jian Xun. In just a few short weeks, his tolerance for him had grown considerably. Crucially, the more he got to know him, the more he liked him.

Jian Xun took a second sip, reading as he drank, until the words on the page seemed to spin around like ants.

Why do I feel so dizzy?

I’m so sleepy.

Jian Xun yawned and fell asleep, resting his head on his arm.

After focusing on him for a moment, Shang Xuci looked up to find Jian Xun asleep. Calling his name several times to no avail, he carried the boy back to bed.

Shang Xuci lifted Jian Xun horizontally, feeling how light he was. He then looked at the boy’s fair face, cheeks faintly pink, mumbling incoherently.

He looked drunk.

It was just fruit wine, not high in alcohol. Could he really get drunk from that? Shang Xuci narrowed his eyes slightly, an unfamiliar emotion flickering across them. He lowered his head, inhaled the boy’s faint floral scent, sighed, and looked away.

Glancing at Jian Xun’s sleeping position again, he noticed the boy was slightly curled up, knees bent, head resting on his arm. His other hand rested casually on his chest, fingers curled into a half-fist, occasionally scratching his head like a cat.

“…What a little fool.”

The boy murmured something in his sleep. Leaning closer, Shang Xuci heard him clearly mutter, “Shang Shang.”

Shang Shang?

Who was that? Who was the person appearing in his dreams?

Shang Xuci frowned slightly as he straightened the corners of the quilt, unaware of his own irritation.

The man stood up, not returning to the study. He showered and went to bed.

The night was quiet. A cool breeze blew through the screen window, gently caressing Jian Xun’s cheek. He shivered and drowsily opened his eyes.

Has he fallen asleep?

Is he lying in bed now?

Memories flooded back, and Jian Xun shuddered, instantly awake.

He quickly checked his phone. Over ten missed calls, all from Xu Tutu. Glancing at the time, it was almost eleven o’clock.

The call went through, and Jian Xun explained the whole story. He described Xu Tutu as a generous cat and agreed to come back tomorrow.

Putting down the phone, Jian Xun lifted the covers and returned to sleep.

He recalled falling asleep in the study, his head resting in a gentle, generous embrace. The warmth made him wish to be held like that forever.

In a daze, he saw his boss laying him on the bed, tucking him in, and gently ruffling his hair, calling him a little idiot in a friendly way.

Jian Xun touched his ear, which still seemed to hold the man’s warmth.

He could accept a head pat, but why pinch his ear? And pinch it the same way he pinched Sui Sui’s ear…

Jian Xun felt shy and buried his head in the covers.

He couldn’t figure it out. Was it because his ear felt so good to the touch? Jian Xun pinched his smooth, soft earlobe, and his eyelashes fluttered.

It felt itchy and a little… pleasurable.

It felt like a very intimate act.

Does the boss do this to other people?

He closed his eyes, lay on his side, and turned over.

Opened his eyes.

Still couldn’t sleep.

Jian Xun checked the dashboard. Aside from the decrease in his blackened stats, the other stats remained largely unchanged.

Is it because Sui Sui is a fake cat?

Slipping on his slippers, Jian Xun headed upstairs. Shang Xuci, also awake, had gotten up to pour himself a glass of water from the dispenser outside. Hearing footsteps on the stairs, he stepped back into the shadows.

As the sound drew nearer, Shang Xuci glanced down. Seeing who it was, he turned, went back inside, and closed the door.

“Click!”

It was the sound of a door opening. Even with his eyes closed, Shang Xuci was certain it was the bedroom door.

The silence deepened, his breathing slowing for a beat.

Though he didn’t open his eyes, he wanted to know what Jian Xun was up to.

The dim orange light in the room glowed softly.

Jian Xun stood beside the bed, gazing intently at Shang Xuci. He stepped forward and waved a hand in front of his face—no reaction. The man seemed sound asleep.

Growing bolder, Jian Xun squatted down, leaned in, sniffed lightly, and muttered under his breath, “The intimacy level hasn’t increased at all. Do you expect me to stick to you 24/7?”

“But you have to go to work.”

“When will we finally have a happy ending?” Jian Xun cupped his face and looked at him. “Never mind. Just a smile every day is good enough.”

“You look so handsome when you smile!” Jian Xun struggled to find the right word, finally settling on, “Even more handsome than Chen Chi!”

Chen Chi?

Who?

Why did Jian Xun come here in the middle of the night just to say these strange things?

Shang Xuci kept his breathing steady, his eyelids barely twitching. He felt the boy’s breath growing heavier, warmer—drifting closer and closer to his face…

The room was so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

Shang Xuci hesitated, debating whether to open his eyes.

Suddenly, the room went pitch dark. The edge of the bed dipped, and a faint cherry blossom scent filled the air. A soft peck landed on his left cheek.

“Goodnight.”

The gentle, youthful voice was unmistakably Jian Xun’s.

Caught off guard by the kiss, Shang Xuci froze for a few seconds. The moment Jian Xun pulled away, he reached out, his fingertips brushing against something as light and soft as a dandelion.

He caught nothing.

Shang Xuci’s eyes snapped open.

A dark figure crouched beside the bed, letting out a soft, tender sound.

“Meow?”

---

In a trance, he recalled the image of Sui Sui waiting for him at the door.

Coming back to his senses, Shang Xuci narrowed his eyes, his gaze fixed on the boy. Was this natural intimacy intentional or unintentional? He had dared to act coquettishly with his employer after only a few days.

The next moment, he gently pushed the boy away.

The boy raised his eyes and bit his lip, the lower one turning an unusually deep red as he looked at him with a look of grievance. Then, a thought struck him, and he immediately distanced himself, laughing loudly to mask his embarrassment.

“It’s still a little cold outside,” Jian Xun rubbed his head, waving his hand as he continued. “By the way, are you hungry? I made you dinner. Do you want to eat?”

“You cooked?”

Jian Xun nodded. “Uncle Zhao had something to do at home, and he asked the housekeeper for leave, so I cooked.”

“No need. I’ve already eaten.” Shang Xuci changed his shoes and entered the house. Without even glancing at the food on the table, he pressed the elevator button and went upstairs.

Jian Xun sniffed and stood there blankly, staring at the dining table.

“Xiao Xun?” The housekeeper brought tea to Shang Xuci. Coming downstairs, he saw Jian Xun standing at the table with his head drooping. He immediately understood and said gently, “Thank you for cooking. Eat this.”

Jian Xun sat alone at the table, muttering that he should at least have been told if Shang Xuci was eating out.

He had specially prepared the meal for him, but he had ended up eating it all by himself.

After dinner, Jian Xun was washing dishes in the kitchen when he ran into Shang Xuci coming downstairs. An idea struck him. He washed his hands, ran over to the man, pulled out his phone, and asked with a smile, “Boss, can I add you on WeChat?”

Shang Xuci glanced at him.

Jian Xun immediately straightened his back and said in a resounding voice, “At your service, boss!”

“My phone.”

Jian Xun quickly offered it.

Shang Xuci held up his small, peach-pink phone, his dark eyes narrowing as he flipped it over and examined it.

He entered his own number and asked calmly, “Where did you buy this phone?”

“I didn’t buy it!” Jian Xun said. “Did someone give it to me?”

“Someone?”

Are you sure it wasn’t the cat? This phone was exactly the same as the one he had given Sui Sui. Not to mention that it was a custom-made model for card-playing phones, rarely seen on the market. There was also a scratch on the back, no bigger than a centimeter, in the exact same location, shape, and size—it was where he had accidentally scratched it before.

Jian Xun stared at him guiltily, then looked away, slowly saying, “I’m very close to him. It was a gift from a very good friend.”

Shang Xuci said nothing more and handed the phone back to him. Just as he stood up and prepared to go back upstairs, Jian Xun pouted slightly and demanded unhappily, “How could you give me a fake number?!”

Ever since Jian Xun had been a cat, he had known every man’s phone number by heart. Asking for his WeChat ID was just a legitimate excuse to contact him, but he had actually given a fake one.

“Fake?” Shang Xuci turned to look at him. “Who told you it was fake?”

Jian Xun said without hesitation, “But your phone number is clearly 13xxxxxxxxx, right?”

“You know my phone number?” Shang Xuci raised an eyebrow.

Jian Xun’s heart skipped a beat. He looked down and stammered, “I… I heard it from the housekeeper.”

Shang Xuci gave him a deep look and said nonchalantly, “Really?”

“Both numbers are mine.”

“Huh?” Jian Xun blinked and nodded softly. “Oh.”

His fair face flushed crimson.

At ten o’clock that evening, Jian Xun slid into the staff’s small bed and checked the various data on the dashboard. His intimacy points hadn’t increased much, and Shang Xuci’s interactions with his avatar didn’t count toward his intimacy score.

Jian Xun sniffed at the single-digit number, then pulled the covers over his head.

Let’s think of another solution.

The next day, the weather suddenly changed. The cold wind blew again, and the sky was eerily gloomy.

Jian Xun huddled in his bed, shivering like a cat. He should have gone to bed earlier last night.

He sneezed, rubbed his nose, and answered the housekeeper’s call.

It seemed the aunt and the others had all caught a cold, so they had asked him to do the chores for the next two days.

Jian Xun readily agreed, taking out a sticky note to write down his work plan for the day.

The villa was so large that it was impossible for him to clean every room by himself. He selected a few of the most important areas and showed them to the housekeeper, who suggested he clean the cat room as well. Sui Sui had been shedding a lot lately, so a daily clean was necessary.

“No problem!”

He first went to the place he hated the most—the large bathroom.

Perhaps it was because he was a cat, but even as a human, he still didn’t like touching water, especially in large amounts.

This was Jian Xun’s first time in Shang Xuci’s bathroom. The bathroom was spacious, with marble walls and a large glass floor. In the center sat a large, round, white bathtub, its surface as smooth as a mirror. Next to the tub was a waterfall shower, and next to it was a separate sauna. Adjacent was the dressing room.

Jian Xun: !!

The handkerchief I’m holding feels a little small.

Whatever, get to work!

Jian Xun rolled up his sleeves and began cleaning.

He cleaned every inch of the room, even polishing the large white bathtub until it gleamed brightly.

By the time he was done, most of the morning had already passed. Jian Xun had a quick meal and set an alarm for 4 p.m. to cook.

Then, bucket in his left hand and mop in his right, he went to the cat house.

A quick glance revealed the house to be relatively tidy, though the toys on the floor were a bit messy. Relying on memory, Jian Xun spent half an hour putting the toys back in their proper places.

Then came the hardest part—cleaning up the cat hair hidden in every nook and cranny. This took a lot of time, and for some hard-to-reach areas, he had to squat on the floor to pick up the fur.

This most primitive method took Jian Xun a lot of time. He didn’t even know that there were several shaving “artifacts” in the cat cleaning toolbox.

Toy room, sleeping room, styling room, hallway… so many doors that Jian Xun almost felt dizzy.

The wall clock ticked away, and after the hour hand made a sharp turn, Jian Xun stood up, stretched his arms, and held his breath, sprawled out on the floor like a cat.

“Finally finished cleaning!”

After resting for a few minutes, his phone alarm rang. Jian Xun turned over, unlocked his phone with his cat paw pad, and began texting Shang Xuci.

[Are you coming back for dinner today?]

He stared at the screen for a few seconds, but nothing happened.

Jian Xun continued to spread out the food.

The phone vibrated, and he quickly turned over to grab it.

[Eat.]

Although it was just one word, Jian Xun happily spun in circles, continuing to edit and send.

[What time will you be home?]

Jian Xun held his phone, waiting for a reply. Seeing that the other party was slow to respond, he simply grabbed his things and went downstairs to start preparing the ingredients.

He also went to the small pond and caught a fish.

After he finished processing the fish, he realized the boss had sent a message.

[Seven o’clock in the evening.]

Jian Xun saw that it was only five o’clock and breathed a sigh of relief. There was no need to rush.

At six forty, Jian Xun brought out the last dish and leaned over the table, wagging his tail as he inhaled the aroma.

For the last ten minutes, he sat on a small stool by the door, eagerly waiting.

At the slightest movement outside, the boy’s invisible ears twitched back and forth as if erect. He suddenly stood up, waiting for someone to open the door.

“You’re back.”

This time, he didn’t rush into his arms. Instead, he stared at his from a distance, his eyes warm and sincere, tinged with joy.

Shang Xuci changed into his indoor shoes and went to the bathroom to wash his hands. When he reached the table, Jian Xun stared at him with a smile.

“They’re all freshly made.”

He placed a bowl of white rice in front of Shang Xuci.

Shang Xuci was a bit surprised to see the familiar “three dishes and one soup.” As he sat down to taste it, his emotions became incredibly complicated.

Not only were the dishes the same, but the taste was identical…

Suddenly, something flashed through his mind. He tried to grasp it, but it left no trace.

Jian Xun was nervous; his cooking skills were probably comparable to Sui Sui’s.

Shang Xuci finished his meal expressionlessly, leaving a little food behind.

Jian Xun happily picked up the bowls.

Shang Xuci saw him like a happy puppy, bustling around the kitchen with energy. He unnoticed went upstairs to check on the cat.

The cat’s room was empty.

Shang Xuci went downstairs and asked the housekeeper, “Sui Sui isn’t here?”

Jian Xun, who was mopping the kitchen floor: ! !

He quickly appeared using a double.

Shang Xuci picked up the cat, which lay dazed at his feet, and gave Jian Xun a deep look.

Some time passed.

It was ten o’clock in the evening.

Just as Jian Xun was lying on his bed, about to close his eyes, his phone rang. He took it out and saw it was Xu Tutu.

“Jian Xun, I have good news!” Xu Tutu said excitedly. “I bought a house! It’s in City A!”

Jian Xun thought he was still half asleep and pulled at his face.

It hurt.

It wasn’t a dream.

Xu Tutu continued, “This isn’t a dream. I won 800,000 yuan in the lottery, and my job was transferred to City A. Now I have a house!”

“It has two bedrooms and a living room, and it’s move-in ready,” Xu Tutu raised his voice. “We’ll have a home from now on. When are you moving back?”

Jian Xun thought for a moment. He was about to say that he was living well here, but he was moved by what he said about home. Brother Tutu had even reserved a room for him when he bought the house, so he didn’t want to refuse.

“I’ll move back this weekend.”

He lived in the staff dormitory during the week and went back to Xu Tutu’s place on weekends. Jian Xun looked forward to the weekends every day.

He had also cooked for Shang Xuci for a week straight.

On Friday, Jian Xun made his bed, folded his quilt neatly, packed some clothes into a suitcase, and waited to return home after cooking dinner for his boss.

Shang Xuci glanced at the table, taking in the three dishes and one soup—steamed fish, spicy braised fish, garlic fish fillets, and fish head, tofu, and clear vegetable soup.

All fish?

Having eaten fish for a week straight, Shang Xuci glanced at Jian Xun, who was full of anticipation, cleared his throat, and said calmly, “I’m not hungry now.”

Jian Xun: “???”

He watched the man go upstairs, his face bewildered.

The housekeeper had approached him at some point and said, “You’ve been eating fish for a week. You must be tired of it. I remember that the master doesn’t like fish very much.”

Jian Xun’s eyes widened. How could this be? When he used to cook fish for the master, he loved it and always ate it all.

Now he doesn’t even want to taste a bite?

Jian Xun felt a little disappointed. He cleared the dishes away, packed them up, and prepared to take them home.

He made the man another serving of egg and ham fried rice.

This was Jian Xun’s first time entering the study. After being caught entering a bedroom without permission, he never dared to barge into the master’s rooms again, including the study.

He knocked on the door and entered.

Jian Xun was once again astounded by the enormous study. This wasn’t a study—it was a library!

“Wow, it’s so huge!” Jian Xun exclaimed, eyes wide.

There were even several round tables made of expensive wood.

Shang Xuci, seeing his inexperienced expression, couldn’t help but curl his lips and whisper, “Watch your step.”

Jian Xun, carrying a plate, immediately looked down. There was a small step in front.

“I made fried rice again.”

Jian Xun gently placed it on the table and brought the brewed coffee to his desk.

Shang Xuci took a sip. The rich aroma was lighter than the usual bitterness, just the way he liked it.

He looked up at Jian Xun, who immediately smiled and said, “I added a little sugar and milk.”

Seeing that he liked it, Jian Xun immediately went back to get the fried rice. As he turned back, he was drawn to the rows of illustrated covers of cats on the bookshelf. He couldn’t help but glance at them a few more times. Not looking down, he nearly fell, hitting his head on the corner of the table.

“Ah—hiss!”

Jian Xun gasped in pain and crouched on the ground, clutching his head.

His expression and movements were identical to Sui Sui’s.

Shang Xuci was stunned for a second, then pulled him up.

He cupped the boy’s face. His skin was as soft as tofu, white and smooth. His eyes were tearful from the pain, and his beautiful eyes—now filled with the adorable look of a fawn—were brimming with tenderness.

“Come with me.”

---

“Waiting for me to come home?” Shang Xuci bent down and sniffed the cat. It smelled sweet, and its fur was soft and smooth.

He pinched the cat’s ears and carried it upstairs. “I’ll be home tomorrow. I’ll take you fishing.”

The big white cat immediately cheered up and responded with its clipped meow.

Then it followed him into the bedroom to sleep with the big boss.

In the middle of the night, the man opened his eyes just like last night, staring unblinkingly at the cat.

The sound of purring, the tiny paws resting on his chest, the peaceful sleeping face—

It was truly his Sui Sui.

Shang Xuci stared at the cat for a long while, then gently lifted the blanket to check its left leg. Its snowy, smooth fur was perfectly neat, showing no sign of past injuries. He had observed carefully: since Sui Sui came back, not only had it grown, but its leg seemed almost fully healed.

He held the leg reverently and kissed it softly.

After covering the cat back up, he lowered his head, inhaling its sweet scent, and finally slept soundly.

The winter ice and snow had melted, and the weather was gradually warming.

When he woke at dawn, Shang Xuci’s mind cleared, and he instinctively reached out—empty.

He instantly sat up, threw off the blanket, and ran barefoot to the door. At the cat’s room, he saw the cat busy grooming itself and finally exhaled in relief.

He clenched his fist, releasing the tension in his body.

Shang Xuci constantly reminded himself not to scare the cat.

Reluctantly, he withdrew his gaze and turned to leave.

Meanwhile, the cat didn’t know what had happened. After tidying its fur, it checked in with the maid and quickly ran downstairs to transform back into human form.

Jian Xun first finished the miscellaneous tasks he had promised Aunt Feng yesterday, then went fishing with Shang Xuci.

Shang Xuci’s meals were prepared by Uncle Zhao, who was said to be a top-tier chef with certifications covering all aspects of culinary expertise. He had previously worked in a five-star hotel but was poached by Shang Xuci with a huge sum to serve as a private chef.

Jian Xun didn’t understand chef rankings; he only knew that around mealtimes, an irresistible aroma always wafted out, filling him with a blind admiration for Chef Zhao.

Often, just before mealtime, Jian Xun would sneak to the kitchen window to watch and learn.

Uncle Zhao had long noticed Jian Xun outside the window. The kid’s messy hair sticking up made him impossible to miss.

“Jian Xun, come here,” Uncle Zhao waved.

Jian Xun whispered, “Jian Xun isn’t here.”

“Don’t hide, I see you,” Uncle Zhao said with a smile. “Want to try the porridge?”

It was new, and he wanted Jian Xun to help him test it.

A soft black head popped up. Jian Xun placed his hands on the windowsill, revealing a pair of clear, deer-like eyes. He asked, “Is that all right?”

“Of course.”

Uncle Zhao lovingly served him a bowl.

Just as Jian Xun had imagined, the porridge was fragrant and delicious. After finishing one bowl, he wanted another—and eventually ended up helping Uncle Zhao.

It wasn’t until Shang Xuci got up that Jian Xun set the plate on the table and went upstairs to call him for dinner.

Shang Xuci came downstairs and had the housekeeper prepare the fishing rod, then brought Sui Sui down.

Jian Xun, sensing something was amiss, tried to sneak away and transform into a cat, but Shang Xuci specifically asked him to come along.

Half an hour later

Jian Xun, fishing gear in both hands, slowly followed Shang Xuci. The man held the cat in his arms, gently stroking it while a Bluetooth headset played in his ear as he spoke.

Putting his phone in his pocket, Shang Xuci pinched the kitten’s ears. It didn’t protest, merely letting him do as he pleased. Shang Xuci stared intently into the cat’s eyes. Its azure pupils had lost their former luster, staring at him with a somewhat empty gaze.

Shang Xuci instinctively glanced at the “birthmark” on the tip of its tail, confirming that the cat in his arms was indeed Sui Sui. His gaze fell on the cat’s head. The cat’s eyes were half-closed, as if it hadn’t rested enough. Its furry head nudged him, as if ready to fall into his arms at any moment.

Slightly puzzled, Shang Xuci attributed it to the cat being tired.

But since Sui Sui had returned home, he’d loved to sleep. He could be found sleeping everywhere. Shang Xuci worried about his health and happened to have an appointment today, so he could help check on him.

“Boss, are you almost there?” a weak young voice called from behind. Shang Xuci glanced back at the struggling Jian Xun and paused.

This was the eighth time he’d asked.

“At your pace, it’ll take another ten minutes.” Shang Xuci waited for him to catch up, then extended his arm expressionlessly. “Give it to me.”

The boy’s face flushed, beads of sweat forming on his fair forehead. He gasped for air.

Is his physical condition really this poor?

Shang Xuci raised an eyebrow and lifted the filled bucket from his hands.

“Boss, can I help you carry the cat?”

“No. I’m afraid your small body can’t handle it.”

Jian Xun: !!!

Meow meow meow?

Is he really that heavy?!

Jian Xun exclaimed in shock. “It’s just a cat. I can definitely hold it!”

Shang Xuci glanced at him calmly. “No need. Take care of yourself.”

The man’s doubt dented Jian Xun’s confidence. He consoled himself: If he hadn’t just spent so much energy controlling his Stand, would he even worry about something so small?

It was also Jian Xun’s fault for being greedy and packing extra fishing gear.

He wanted to catch so many fish. If Shang Xuci hadn’t called him, he could have transformed into Sui Sui and now be lying in the boss’s arms with a clear conscience.

He could even have performed a bare-clawed fish-catching show. Who would have caught more, the boss or him?

The rising sun dispelled the mist over the lake, lifting the veil to reveal its true beauty. The water was crystal clear, shimmering, while green trees lined the shore, their leaves rustling in the breeze.

A black Bentley was parked on the gravel road nearby. A man in a black cashmere coat waved at them.

“Doctor Gu, you’re fishing too?!” Jian Xun asked, his face beaming.

“Yes.” Gu Ming had only met Jian Xun once, at the hospital, yet the boy had left a strong impression. He was incredibly handsome, with a soft, sweet personality and a sometimes-goofy side, making him hard not to tease.

Gu Ming glanced at Shang Xuci and then said to Jian Xun, “I’m not surprised you’re here at all. Did he invite you fishing?”

Jian Xun quickly shook his head. “Shang Xuci is my boss. I’m fishing with you guys.”

The boy glanced back furtively and whispered, “Though… I do want to fish.”

“Then let’s go fishing together,” Gu Ming said with a smile.

After setting up the fish box, fishing rods, and other tools, Shang Xuci and Gu Ming sat on chairs to fish. Jian Xun pulled out a folding table and laid out the snacks and tea Uncle Zhao had prepared.

“Okay, Boss, Doctor Gu, put everything here.”

Shang Xuci, holding the cat, asked, “Didn’t you bring Sui Sui’s cat bag?”

Jian Xun: ??

It’s so delicate there, and you even brought a mat for the cat. He’s carrying so much stuff—two school bags on each shoulder! And a large water bottle around his neck… He’s picking up all the important things. You’ve already brought the cat out to play, and you still need a cat bag?!

You want to bring me in, but I don’t want to go in!

Jian Xun muttered to himself, rolling his eyes.

Shang Xuci caught his pouting, impatient expression. He raised an eyebrow. “If you forgot it, go back and get it.”

Jian Xun looked up and met his faint smile. He nodded guiltily. “Okay.”

“And bring a cat mat.”

“Okay.”

Jian Xun turned and walked back.

By half past ten, he arrived, sweating profusely and carrying his belongings.

After putting them away, he craned his neck to look at the two buckets.

Empty.

Both of them were empty.

Tsk. They were both so good at their own things, but their fishing skills weren’t that great.

Hmph.

Jian Xun left, satisfied.

“Don’t you want to fish with us?” Gu Ming called, seeing him hop along with his hands in his pockets.

Jian Xun waved. He had originally wanted to fish, but now he’d changed his mind.

He leaned toward Shang Xuci and said, “Boss, I want to take a walk around.”

Shang Xuci, who was laying out a mat for Sui Sui, nodded in agreement.

Jian Xun immediately rummaged through his small backpack.

First, he pulled out the cookies he had baked. Holding the bag and the fishing net, he paced back and forth along the shore, eagerly awaiting his next catch.

On his way back, he subconsciously glanced at the buckets again. Doctor Gu had two.

The boss had four!

Jian Xun opened his mouth wide, swallowed, and squatted between the two buckets, comparing whose fish was bigger.

Seeing that Shang Xuci had more fish, he leaned in and tugged at his shirt. “Boss, can you give me one?”

Shang Xuci raised his eyelids, glanced at him, and said calmly, “No.”

He stood up and distanced himself. Then he put the small fish on a plate and brought it to Sui Sui. The little guy had already eaten several fish but still wasn’t satisfied, staring at him blankly.

“Stingy,” Jian Xun muttered, pouting from the corner of his eye.

Seeing his adorable expression, Gu Ming couldn’t help but rub Jian Xun’s head. “I’ll give it to you,” he said.

“Thank you, Doctor Gu.” Jian Xun watched Shang Xuci cast his line and deliberately raised his voice. “Doctor Gu is amazing! He caught such a big fish!”

Gu Ming smiled. “Thank you.”

Shang Xuci had asked him out fishing, thinking he wanted to chat, but it turned out he was simply fishing for his beloved cat.

Catch big fish and release them; catch small fish to feed the cats.

The afternoon sun softened, golden light shimmering across the water like a layer of gold dusting the surface. The people sitting nearby also stayed quiet, occasionally chatting and laughing.

A tranquil, beautiful scene.

The cat on the mat stood up and walked behind a tree. A moment later, it emerged again.

This time, its aura was completely different—its eyes bright and its body agile.

The lion-like cat stretched and slowly walked toward the lake.

Shang Xuci quietly gripped his fishing rod, his gaze fixed intently on the buoy on the water. His silhouette reflected perfectly, blending seamlessly with the surrounding scenery.

Time slipped by quietly.

The line in his hand sank, and the still lake surface stirred. A fish took the bait; the rod bent, the line went taut, and the man smiled with satisfaction.

“Splash!”

A small fish was caught in the net.

The cat approached the mat and, without hesitation, kicked it aside. It rolled wantonly on the soft, fragrant grass, giving Shang Xuci a provocative look.

Though the cat ignored his small movements.

“Sui Sui, come here.” Shang Xuci removed the small fish and waved to the lion cat nearby.

The lion cat, its large, fluffy tail erect, trotted lightly and cheerfully over.

Then it brushed past Shang Xuci, gave him a cold sidelong glance, and ignored his feeding. Right in front of him, it resolutely stepped to the other side and grabbed Gu Ming’s fish bucket.

Shang Xuci: “…”

Gu Ming was stunned, then smiled. “Looks like the little guy isn’t full.”

“Meow.”

Standing up, the cat placed its paws on the edge of the bucket and carefully counted Gu Ming’s fish:

One.

Two.

Three.

…

And one for Jian Xun.

The cat’s tail wagged happily.

Shang Xuci’s eyes darkened as he placed the bucket of fish next to Gu Ming’s.

Sui Sui remained unmoved.

Just moments ago, he had been so well-behaved, quietly squatting and eating gracefully in small bites. How could he suddenly turn so cold-faced?

The fishing rod beside him trembled. Gu Ming urged, “Hurry! There’s a fish on the hook, and it’s a big one!”

Shang Xuci withdrew his gaze, pursed his lips, and reeled in the line.

It felt heavy in his hand—it was indeed a large one.

Sui Sui stared intently at the commotion. A large, delicious fish landed on the grass in front of him.

The cat was stunned. The fish was nearly as big as itself. It looked up at Shang Xuci, who lifted his chin and continued fishing.

Jian Xun didn’t want to be angry with his double anymore. He had transformed back into a cat just to catch fish!

He extended his cat paws and hammered the fish with a few powerful swipes, struggling against the thrashing fish. After it had been out of the water too long and finally gave up, Jian Xun bit its tail and struggled to drag it toward his bucket.

Dong—

The fish landed in the bucket with a splash, gasping for breath.

“Sui Sui, come here.”

Gu Ming had also caught a large fish and tossed it toward the lion cat. The big cat swooped over, batted the struggling fish twice, then returned to the bucket, head held high and chest puffed, tossing the dazed fish in.

Plop.

Water splashed all over the cat’s face.

The big white cat stood on its tiptoes, watching the fish swimming happily in the bucket. It twitched its ears and licked its wet fur.

“Sui Sui, did you pick up the wrong bucket?” Shang Xuci kindly warned, pointing to the blue bucket with the large “Jian Xun” sign on it.

Jian Xun froze, glancing left at Gu Ming’s black bucket, then right at Shang Xuci’s transparent white bucket, and finally down at his own blue bucket. Pretending not to hear, he gracefully walked to the shore and crouched down to watch the fish.

At that moment, Gu Ming had no idea what was going to happen. Seeing Sui Sui’s adorable eagerness, he smiled and called out, “Sui Sui, don’t get so close! You’re just a little kitten. It’s dangerous! Come here, uncle’s going to catch you!”

The cat ignored him, focusing intently on the fish.

“Hey, you were holding onto my bucket just now, and now you’re ignoring me?” Gu Ming said, unwilling to give up. “I’ll give you two!”

The cat didn’t even stir.

Seeing Shang Xuci’s lips curl up, Gu Ming gritted his teeth and said, “Sui Sui, come here. This bucket of fish is all yours!”

The cat moved.

It quickly extended its claws into the water, scooping up a fish so fast that only a shadow remained.

This time, there was a fish in its mouth.

The big white cat, holding the fish, walked straight to the blue bucket and released it.

“Sui Sui, you caught a fish? So impressive!”

Gu Ming was shocked.

The white cat gave him a look of disdain. “Who’s calling me a little cat? Who’s incompetent?”

The big white cat flicked its tail and, with a patronizing gait, ran to the shore to continue fishing.

Gu Ming: “…”

Seeing this, Shang Xuci pursed his lips and smiled. This was his cat: lively, active, and able to catch fish—truly impressive.

For a moment, he even suspected he had been holding a fake cat. It was incredibly strange.

“You called me here today for more than just fishing, right?” Gu Ming, noticing Shang Xuci’s eyes never leaving Sui Sui, speculated, “Is it because of Sui Sui?”

“Sui Sui has become lethargic and listless since returning…” According to the maid, the cat is very well-behaved—perhaps too well-behaved. Sui Sui is naturally obedient, so that’s not unusual. But he seems to have overcome even his fear of water. Sometimes he remains motionless, like in a deep sleep, frightening the maid who was recording his movements—though he eventually returns to normal.

Gu Ming nodded. “It’s a bit strange.”

“I also want to implant a tracking chip in Sui Sui so I can find him wherever he goes.”

Ever since Sui Sui ran away from home, Shang Xuci has felt insecure. Even though someone reports daily on the cat’s activities, he still feels uneasy.

As they chatted, the cat caught another fish. After hearing Shang Xuci talk about the cat maid caring for Sui Sui 24 hours a day, he walked up to the man and expressed his dissatisfaction.

Who’s constantly monitoring their cat? Cats don’t like that, do they?

He still couldn’t get used to the large apartment. It was so boring being the only cat there!

The large white cat placed its paw on the man’s leg, meowing its displeasure.

Although Gu Ming didn’t understand meow language, he still offered his opinion. “Perhaps that’s why Sui Sui has become like this.”

The cat turned and meowed at Gu Ming.

“I know,” Shang Xuci said, his throat rolling as he stroked the cat’s ear. “Once the tracking device is ready, I won’t restrict his freedom.”

“Meow!”

Really?

The cat tilted its furry head back and meowed briefly, joyfully.

Shang Xuci picked up the cat and smelled the faint scent of cherry blossoms and bathtub flowers on him. A hint of doubt flashed across his narrow, phoenix eyes. Had there been any scent when he held the cat just now?

Finally, the blue fish bucket returned full.

Back home, Jian Xun followed Shang Xuci and watched him place the fish in the shallow pool in the back garden so the cat could have fresh food.

The next day, the lion cat was chasing butterflies in the garden. Shang Xuci had taken him to Gu Ming to have a tracking chip implanted. He was listless and lethargic when he returned home. No matter how the maids tried to tease him, the cat ignored them.

Luckily, Shang Xuci didn’t have anyone following his cat around 24 hours a day. The maids completed their tasks on time and then left.

It was also the weekend, and besides the security guards, the only people left in the villa were the housekeeper, the chef, Aunt Wang on duty, and Jian Xun.

The lion cat could finally show off his skills!

Disliking toys or watching TV, he ran to Shang Xuci’s room, grabbed some clothes and pants, and took them to the laundry room. He put them in his pocket before washing them, then jumped in and sniffed them for a while.

After washing the clothes, he returned to rest. Uncle Zhao, the chef, had taken leave for something urgent, so Jian Xun took over his work. He then went to his small fish pond to catch fish.

As usual, Jian Xun cooked a fish and two plates of vegetables—enough for one person.

He remembered how Uncle Zhao cooked three full meals a day for Shang Xuci, each with a large table full of dishes, and he never finished them.

What a shame to waste food.

Although Jian Xun was a glutton, he never wasted a single grain of cat food.

He served the dishes to the table, then carried a small stool to the entrance, where he sat and waited for Shang Xuci.

It was already time to get off work.

He waited and waited until dark, but there was still no movement.

The food on the table was getting cold, so Jian Xun went to reheat it and sat on the small stool by the door again, waiting.

He was best at waiting.

Aunt Wang, passing by, saw Jian Xun’s little head peeking out and brought him a small blanket.

The room fell silent again, and Jian Xun was alone.

In a daze, he heard the sound of a car engine. He shook his head and looked up just as the door opened.

“You’re back!” Jian Xun’s eyes sparkled, and he threw himself into Shang Xuci’s arms.

Shang Xuci’s breath hitched, his eyes darkening. The scent of the young man in his arms was faintly sweet, like cherry blossoms, as if a spring breeze had brushed across his face, carrying the delicate fragrance of blooming flowers.

Jian Xun still hugged his neck, habitually nuzzling his soft head against it, clinging to him like a cat.

---

Shang Xuci was watching him.

Jian Xun noticed and suddenly became nervous.

He wondered if the boss would like his human form.

Shang Xuci continued to study him. He had seen photos before, but the boy looked much better in person. For some reason, just looking at him gave Shang Xuci an inexplicable sense of closeness. Those deep blue eyes were so much like his cat’s—especially when they lit up with that delighted glint.

Hearing that he was here for an interview, Shang Xuci raised an eyebrow.

He remembered asking Fu Qian to change the interview location yesterday. Hadn’t the boy noticed?

A gentle breeze blew, and Jian Xun shivered, his fair cheeks flushing slightly.

Shang Xuci averted his gaze and said calmly, “Come in first.”

He brought a new pair of slippers from the entrance and had tea sent to the reception room.

“I need to go to the restroom first,” Jian Xun said softly.

The housekeeper immediately took him there, and when he came out, escorted him to the reception room.

The reception room was empty. Jian Xun sat on the sofa, holding a glass of water, his eyes darting around as he felt a little uneasy.

Ah, I really want to be a cat!

Two minutes later, Shang Xuci walked in, Jian Xun’s resume in hand.

“You’re applying for the position of cat nutritionist. Do you have a certificate? Do you know my cats?”

Jian Xun put his legs together and placed his hands neatly on his lap, looking every bit the good student. Hearing the question, he half-clenched his fists and slowly shook his head.

“I don’t have a nutritionist certificate.”

The second half of his answer came more confidently, his tone crisp.

“But I know your cats.”

Jian Xun sneaked a glance at Shang Xuci. The boss was so aloof. He pinched his fingers nervously before continuing, “Your cat is a lion cat, almost a year old. His name is Sui Sui. He’s male and hasn’t been neutered yet…”

Shang Xuci nodded slightly. This was all basic information—easily searchable online.

He cut Jian Xun off without hesitation.

“You can’t take care of my cat.”

He didn’t mince words. Shang Xuci had always taken care of Sui Sui himself, and he had no intention of letting the man in front of him do it just because of a past favor.

“You didn’t even ask me to take care of him, so how can you say I can’t?” Jian Xun muttered softly, his tone gentle but tinged with obvious dissatisfaction.

“I really need this job. Otherwise, bring Sui Sui down—I guarantee he’ll like me!” Jian Xun stared intently at him and pleaded softly, “Just let me try?”

He was completely unaware of his almost coquettish tone, and Shang Xuci didn’t notice it either. Once again, Shang Xuci looked him over and asked, “Are you really short on money?”

Jian Xun nodded obediently.

Those sapphire-blue eyes stared intently at him—wet and glistening, as if they might spill tears if he refused.

He had read Jian Xun’s profile: no parents, no formal schooling, and a life sustained by odd jobs.

Yet despite such a tragic past, his eyes were still clear, his skin fair and tender, as if he had been carefully protected from the world.

Shang Xuci didn’t want to dwell on it. Under that expectant gaze, he felt unable to speak harshly.

“Instead of taking care of the cats, you can stay and do housework.” Shang Xuci paused, eyes fixed on him. “Is that okay?”

Jian Xun nodded quickly, a broad smile spreading across his face. “I’d love to!”

He knew Shang Xuci was a good guy!

“When do you start?”

“Tomorrow.”

Shang Xuci finished his coffee and left under the boy’s grateful gaze.

…

Xinyu Company

“Hey, did you notice the boss is a completely different person today? Way friendlier and gentler?”

“Yeah, yeah! I ran into him in the elevator and said hello—he actually smiled at me!”

“It’s not just you. He’s smiling at everyone. You can tell he’s in a good mood. I almost thought he was a different person. He’s already handsome, but when he smiles… wow.”

“This morning in the meeting, the planning team’s proposal had issues, but instead of getting angry, President Shang just offered gentle suggestions. I really want to know what happened. If the boss was like this every day, work would be a dream!”

“Satisfied? He’s usually just a little aloof, but the pay and benefits are already great.”

“That’s true. But I heard President Shang’s in such a good mood because he found his cat.”

…

Office

Shang Xuci was reading documents with a pen in hand when his phone began to vibrate beside him. After finishing a stack, he checked it—his screen was filled with animated GIFs of Sui Sui at home.

Parkour, chasing cat toys, rolling around…

Mostly sleeping. Still, he couldn’t help but glance at his watch; for the first time, time felt unbearably slow.

Fu Qian walked in. “Mr. Shang, there’s a problem with Hongtu. We’d like to reschedule the meeting to 3:00 p.m. today.”

…

Ludao Garden

“Your name is Jian Xun?”

Snapping out of his daze, Jian Xun realized the butler was speaking to him and nodded quickly.

“Master just instructed me to tell you—there are rooms in the villa for employees. If you’d like, you can pack up and move in anytime.”

“Don’t charge?”

“Of course not.”

“I’ll go back and pack my things right away!” Jian Xun replied without hesitation.

After agreeing with Xu Tutu, Jian Xun checked into the villa’s small studio that night. It was supposedly a staff room, but in reality, it was even nicer than the hotel room he had rented.

Jian Xun rolled around on the soft bed, feeling utterly comfortable!

Swaying back and forth, he found it firm yet cozy, without the creaking of a hard bed. He rested his head on the pillow, sighing in contentment.

That night, the housekeeper summoned Jian Xun for a private meeting and went over the precautions for the job.

The young man seemed naive, having never experienced anything like this before. The housekeeper was a little concerned and felt it necessary to give him a few pointers to avoid potentially offending Shang Xuci.

“Master has mysophobia. First and foremost, you must pay attention to your personal appearance and keep your surroundings clean. There’s a special cleaning lady for that—just take care of your personal hygiene.”

“Also, privacy. Outside of your work area, don’t enter places like the study or bedroom without permission.”

…

“Most importantly, Master’s beloved cat, Sui Sui, must be treated like a boss.”

The villa may seem to have a lot of employees, but in reality, only a few work in shifts. The rest are hourly workers who leave after their workday.

For someone like Jian Xun, who lived and ate in the villa and was assigned relatively easy tasks, the housekeeper saw Shang Xuci’s actions as a kind of disguised charity—taking in a poor child.

Thankfully, the boy seemed obedient. He nodded earnestly at every word and listened intently, giving the housekeeper an inexplicable sense of warmth.

“Anyway, feel free to ask me anything you don’t understand.”

“Thank you, Butler.”

“You’re welcome. My grandson is the same age as you. You can call me Grandpa.”

“Okay… Butler Grandpa.”

That evening, when Jian Xun saw Shang Xuci come home, he immediately turned like a cat and rushed over, curling up in his arms and acting coquettishly until he kissed the tip of his ear. Then, clutching his dried fish pillow, he went to bed and waited for someone.

The next morning, the butler took Jian Xun on a tour of the house to familiarize him with the surroundings.

He also showed him the study and bedroom. Seeing that there was only one bedroom, and that it contained just single-person living quarters, Jian Xun breathed a sigh of relief, feeling a small glimmer of joy in his heart.

It seemed that Meng Jingxue and the boss had not yet reached the stage of living together.

After getting acquainted with the surroundings, he unknowingly passed by Shang Xuci’s bedroom again.

Jian Xun casually glanced inside. A corner of the quilt had slipped diagonally over the edge, nearly dangling onto the floor.

Jian Xun: “!!”

He suddenly remembered that the cat had forgotten to make the bed that morning! Thinking of Shang Xuci’s mysophobia and his love of cleanliness, he felt he had to tidy it up—and walked straight in.

Finally, no need to hold the sheets in his mouth!

Jian Xun straightened the sheets with both hands and folded the quilt neatly. Humming a song, he had just stepped out of bed when he turned and saw Shang Xuci standing at the bedroom door.

Jian Xun’s watery eyes instantly lit up. Filled with joy, he ran up to the man, showing off his work, lips curved in anticipation of praise.

This was even better than the one he’d made as a cat!

But Shang Xuci gave him a cold glance.

“Jian Xun, there’s a special auntie who cleans and tidies the bedroom. You don’t have to make the bed yourself.”

Although the young man had done him a favor, they weren’t close. Out of pity, Shang Xuci had allowed Jian Xun to stay at the villa, but he had made it clear that no one except Aunt Wang should enter the bedroom.

Jian Xun uttered a dumbfounded “Ah!” before quickly nodding.

His enthusiasm was dampened by Shang Xuci’s cold tone.

He rubbed his nose awkwardly. “Yes… he’s not Sui Sui now.”

Lowering his head, he whispered, “I understand.”

Then he walked out of the bedroom dejectedly and returned to his own room.

The man’s aloof expression lingered in his mind. Fortunately, the housekeeper had given him tasks, and as he busied himself, he gradually forgot his unpleasantness.

Jian Xun walked briskly, spending the entire morning running through various areas. Then he began his work—doing odd jobs, helping anyone who needed it, smiling broadly and calling out sweetly. He was so well-behaved that even when doing nothing, he was pleasing to the eye. The aunts and sisters at the villa didn’t let him do any heavy work, and they massaged his face daily to help restore his energy.

As work neared its end, Jian Xun transformed back into a cat and squatted by the door, waiting quietly.

Seeing the clock on the wall strike seven, the big white cat stared at the door for a long time. Then he lowered his head to look at his paws and slumped onto the carpet, a look of dejection on his face.

The cat had returned, but Big Boss hadn’t shown much interest in him. Aside from taking him out for an extra hour each evening for a walk, it felt as if their hearts had drifted apart.

In the past, the little white cat had dreamed of living in a luxurious villa—with a personal car, a personal escort to look after him, and all the attention he could wish for. He had truly longed for love.

But when Big Boss actually bought him a large house and hired a maid to care for him and keep him company, Big White Cat felt less happy than before. He felt constrained wherever he went.

So he began to miss his old little house, where he could squat in the foyer, his cat ears twitching to detect whether the footsteps outside belonged to Shang Xuci.

He could also cook for Big Boss. In such a small space, the cat could mop the floor in just ten minutes. Washing, hanging, and carrying clothes were very convenient.

He and Shang Xuci had been the only two in the room, each considering the other the only one they could communicate with—even if the boss couldn’t understand what he was saying.

The new house was large and empty, and running around felt like a struggle.

He really wanted to do something. After working as a human for a while, it was boring to be a cat, just waiting around.

Mao Mao rolled on the ground. The housekeeper picked him up and said, “Oh, my little ancestor, why did you run down here? Grandpa will take you to eat some dried fish.”

“Meow~”

The mention of food perked up the cat.

In the end, Jian Xun didn’t wait for Shang Xuci.

He returned to the cat’s room and started parkouring, playing with the cat paddleboard, and watching TV.

When he fell asleep, the maid carried him to the cat bed.

After the maid left, the big white cat opened his eyes and ran to Shang Xuci’s bedroom. He jumped up deftly and opened the door. Seeing the bed empty, he returned to his room, picked up the kitty mat, and scurried down to the downstairs entryway. He lay belly down on the cushion, head stretched out, and stared at the door with a slight pout.

Ten o’clock in the evening.

Shang Xuci opened the door and returned to his room. In the darkness, a large, round, titanium light fixture cast a faint glow.

Then a gray shadow pounced toward him. His chin felt a soft, furry touch as the cat licked him.

“Sui Sui?” Shang Xuci called, reaching down to pet the cat’s head.

“Meow.”

The cat let out a plaintive whimper.

A voice command turned on the lights, and the room brightened instantly. The cat rested its paws on the man’s broad shoulders, pressing its head against him.

“Meow!” A long, soft, sweet sound filled the room. The cat’s tail draped over Shang Xuci’s waist as it looked up at him with a grievance-filled gaze.

Why did you come back just now?

---

The cat pounced and buried its head in his chest.

“Meow~”

It’s not too late.

Jian Xun wrapped his paws around his neck. The cat rubbed its head against him vigorously, its tail wagging happily.

The soft fur, the irresistible cuteness, the familiar clinging gesture…

Shang Xuci lowered his eyes slightly, a smile tugging at his lips, his gaze fixed on the cat. He reached out and lovingly caressed its soft back.

After three days of intravenous drips at the hospital, Shang Xuci took the cat to Gu Ming for a full-body checkup. The cat’s second-injured leg had recovered about seventy to eighty percent and could now walk slowly without issue. Everything else was fine.

Once the examination was over, Shang Xuci prepared to leave the hospital. The driver, Uncle Zhao, opened the back door and saw the cat sleeping soundly in the young master’s arms. He exclaimed in surprise, “You found it?”

“Yes.” Shang Xuci glanced down at Sui Sui, whose eyes were closed and mouth slightly open as she rested on his shoulder. A wave of tenderness welled up in his heart. “Let’s go straight back to Ludao Garden.”

Jian Xun awoke to a change of scenery.

A spacious room, a dazzling crystal chandelier overhead, understated luxury, unfamiliar furniture…

The large white cat resting on the leather sofa immediately burrowed cautiously into the back cushions, its round eyes watchful.

The living room had panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows. Glancing sideways, he saw a delightful flower garden outside.

From the kitchen came the sounds of chopping and cooking. Outside, a water hose gurgled as it watered the plants. But the living room itself was cold and deserted, with no one moving about.

The cat nestled deeper into the crack of the sofa, finding a sense of security there.

He didn’t lift his head until he heard footsteps coming from upstairs.

“Mr. Shang, dinner will be served in about ten minutes.”

“Yes.”

Shang Xuci walked to the living room sofa, glanced around—and froze.

Where’s the cat?!

He grabbed a pillow and asked urgently, “Where’s my cat?”

The housekeeper, who had just stepped out of the bathroom, looked at the sofa as well. Only a few minutes ago, the cat had been sleeping there.

“Meow!”

Hearing Shang Xuci’s voice, Jian Xun poked his head out from under the sofa.

Shang Xuci let out a sigh of relief and said to the housekeeper, “It’s okay.”

He lifted the cat out and set it on his lap. “Don’t scare me like that again,” he said.

Jian Xun pressed his paw against his hand, gently biting the tip of his index finger as if in protest.

He noticed the boss had just finished showering and was dressed in home clothes. His long legs stretched out across the floor, making the cat want to climb onto them.

He leaned in to sniff, then looked up with a soft meow. His expression was satisfied—finally, there was no more cat smell!

As the others moved away from the sofa, Jian Xun sat holding his tail in a daze, taking in the scene he had never seen before.

A hand-carved coffee table stood in the center of the room, set atop an exquisite Persian rug. Two ancient paintings hung on the walls, accompanied by several carefully selected modern art pieces. Bookshelves displayed precious collectibles, antique clocks, and historic ceramics. In the corner of the living room stood a bar, stocked with a variety of high-end liquors and crystal glasses.

From a cat’s perspective, it was enormous.

He went downstairs and took a quick look around, watching the cooks busy in the kitchen, the housekeeper answering calls on the landline, and the robot vacuum cleaner—taller than he was—moving across the floor.

Jian Xun belatedly realized this was Shang Xuci’s new house.

As expected of a big shot, he had changed houses twice a year, each one bigger than the last.

Jian Xun was most concerned about his living space. He did his best to remain in cat form that day, avoiding a full exploration of every corner of the house and instead taking only a brief walk around the first floor.

Near the bar, Jian Xun was surprised to find his own cardboard box and a new cat bed, topped with the familiar dried-fish pillow.

The big white cat practically leapt onto the cardboard box, sniffing back and forth, left and right. Hmm! Exactly the same smell.

He immediately climbed inside, finding a soft blanket laid out. He kneaded it with his paws, then curled up obediently, switching to power-saving mode.

Upstairs, Shang Xuci waited until bedtime, but the cat never appeared. He searched the living room for a while before finally spotting it.

He stared at the box, suddenly regretting bringing it along.

Shang Xuci stood there for a moment, then bent down and picked up the box.

…

When Jian Xun woke the next morning, the room felt unfamiliar again. Peeking over the top of the box, he saw Boss sleeping on the bed.

He was in Boss’s bedroom?!

How could that be? He had clearly slept in the living room last night!

Jian Xun didn’t know that Shang Xuci had carried him into the bedroom during the night. The man had felt uneasy, worried the cat might run away, and besides—shouldn’t a cat be affectionate with its owner on the first night?

Hadn’t Sui Sui tried every trick in the book to get him to sleep in his bed?

So, in the middle of the night, Shang Xuci had gone downstairs, brought the cardboard box up, and locked the door.

When he woke the next morning, the first thing Shang Xuci saw was the cat. Delighted, he carried it downstairs for breakfast.

Jian Xun, however, was anxious. He had returned in such a hurry that he hadn’t told Xu Tutu, nor had he brought his phone. Was Xu Tutu worried right now?

In any case, after Shang Xuci left, he planned to disguise himself and go back.

After breakfast, Shang Xuci took the cat to their designated room—

A separate pet playground on the first floor.

As he walked up, a row of maids bowed in unison.

“Hello, Boss! Hello, Sui Sui!”

Jian Xun: ??

From left to right—

The first maid said, “Hello, Sui Sui! I’m your hair groomer.”

The second maid said, “I’m your dresser.”

The third maid said, “I’m your stylist.”

The fourth maid said, “I’m your playmate.”

The fifth was a middle-aged man. He bowed slightly and, in a gentlemanly tone, said, “I’m your personal driver.”

Jian Xun’s eyes were wide with shock!

He looked up at Shang Xuci. Shang Xuci caught his look and smiled. “They’re all yours.”

Jian Xun smacked his lips, licking them. “Wow, I’ve made it!”

The cat brushed past Shang Xuci’s legs and began inspecting the entire cat paradise. He soon broke into a run.

Woo woo, Brother Tutu, I’m rich!

Meanwhile, after finishing his last phone call, Xu Tutu—sitting at his workstation—sneezed loudly and muttered, “Who’s thinking about me?”

Rubbing his nose, he looked at the thick pile of unfinished documents on his desk. He desperately wanted to turn into a cat.

…

Jian Xun had a blast in the cat room. When he was tired, he ate; when he was full, he slept. Wasn’t this the life he had always dreamed of?

There was even a dedicated cat bed. Jian Xun stepped onto it—it was soft and smelled delicious. He carried the extra cat blanket to the bed, raised his rear, pounced on it, and painstakingly dug at it with his claws to fluff it up and smooth out the sheets.

Finally, he happily fell asleep.

After a good night’s rest, a new return reward appeared on his dashboard: four treasure chests with different skills. Jian Xun chose Stand User without hesitation.

Bang!

A lion cat, identical in size and shape to him, appeared. When he raised his paw to beckon wealth, the cat mirrored the gesture. A poke revealed warmth—real warmth!

The only drawback was the Stand’s dull eyes, lacking the lively spark of his own.

Jian Xun glanced around and ran to the cat changing room to test his new Stand User.

He could control the cat’s movements with his mind.

When Jian Xun transformed into a human and instructed his Stand to leave the changing room, the range was fine, but without visual contact, his mental control didn’t work.

The second method was to give the Stand specific commands. For example, he could program a full day’s schedule—accurate to the second—setting meal times, bathroom breaks, playtime, naps, and even the exact moment to wait for Shang Xuci at the door after work. Everything could be preset.

Jian Xun was extremely satisfied. Now, he no longer feared turning human; he could go wherever he pleased.

After spending the day getting used to his double, it was finally time for Shang Xuci to take the cat out.

The boss planned to take him to Gu Ming for a checkup and vaccinations.

The white cat lay obediently in the cat bag until the injections were finished. Then, finding an opportunity, he transformed into a human and let his substitute take his place in the bag for the trip home.

At the hotel, he told Xu Tutu about his experiences over the past few days and his encounter with Shang Xuci.

“Brother Tutu, I’ll probably stay in City A this time.”

Xu Tutu was unsurprised. “I know.”

“It’s only an hour from City A to City H by high-speed rail. I’ll come back to see you often.”

Although Xu Tutu still had a week before he could return, he was already reluctant to part ways.

He looked like a parent with a resigned but relieved expression—he couldn’t control his “child” anymore.

After making an agreement with Xu Tutu, Jian Xun planned to spend his remaining days with him.

From time to time, he would check on his substitute cat to see if it was doing its job properly. That was when he discovered the boss had hired a health nutritionist—for the cat.

A quick search showed the position was essentially a [cat cook.]

Cooking.

Cooking for cats.

Jian Xun thought, I can do that.

Without hesitation, he pulled out his phone, retrieved the resume he had saved from a past job search, made a few edits, and sent it in.

This way, it would also be easier for him to turn into a cat.

After finishing his work, Shang Xuci picked up the resume for the cat health nutritionist position. He read the first few pages carefully, but only took five seconds to skim the last one.

No education. No skills. No relevant experience.

Skills: Housework, massage.

A long list of strengths: hardworking, conscientious, able to work under pressure…

Finally, his gaze landed on the applicant’s photo.

Shang Xuci froze, his eyes narrowing.

Jian Xun followed Xu Tutu as he packed his things. His phone buzzed, and he quickly pulled it out.

“I’ve made it to the final interview!” he exclaimed excitedly.

“Let me see.”

Jian Xun hadn’t mentioned Shang Xuci—only that he was applying to work as a nutritionist for a wealthy family. At first, Xu Tutu had been skeptical, thinking such families had extremely high standards and that a newbie like Sui Sui wouldn’t stand a chance.

But the text message confirmed it—Jian Xun had made it to the final interview.

Xu Tutu was surprised. He gave him a thumbs-up and praised, “Sui Sui is amazing.”

“But it’s only an interview—don’t get complacent.” Xu Tutu patted his shoulder.

Jian Xun patted his chest and said with confidence, “Don’t worry, it’s no problem.”

After all, he was applying to be his own nutritionist.

Still, he signed up for a short, week-long nutritionist training course that came with an electronic certificate.

He had it all figured out—once he was working in Shang Xuci’s house, he’d have free rein to switch between human and cat forms as he pleased, earn a salary, and even collect double the intimacy bonus. A complete steal.

…

On the day of the interview

Jian Xun stood in front of the mirror, smoothed down his hair, changed into a dark gray blazer, white shirt, black leather shoes, and an overcoat, then headed out the door looking sharp.

Half an hour later, he arrived at the gate of Ludao Garden. After showing the security guard his ID, he was allowed in.

Seeing that he hadn’t driven and was asking for directions, the guard pointed to the main road behind him with a hint of disdain. “Go straight ahead.”

This was Jian Xun’s first time visiting Shang Xuci’s new home in human form, seeing the scenery with his own eyes. Rolling hills, meticulously landscaped gardens, a vast lake, and even a recreational playground…

Like Granny Liu entering the Grand View Garden for the first time, he gazed around in awe, touching here and there, his eyes filled with curiosity and admiration.

Do rich people get houses like this for free? It had everything—especially the large fish pond, which he couldn’t help but glance at several more times.

Finally arriving at his destination, he took a deep breath and rang the doorbell.

Shang Xuci was just about to head out with his coat when the chime rang. He opened the door.

Standing there was a young man, short and slender, his shirt buttoned all the way up. His suit gave off the air of a high school uniform, and his demeanor was clean and neat.

His eyes were round, deep blue like a cat’s—lively and clear. His lips were plump and well-shaped with a natural rosy hue, and his features were delicate and refined.

He lowered his gaze and spoke softly.

“Hello, I’m here for the interview for the position of cat nutritionist.”

---

“The one in your pocket isn’t. The one on the ground is.”

Obviously, except for the person who asked him this, everyone else misunderstood, thinking he was referring to the lion cat on the ground.

That was Shang Xuci’s fault for staring intently at the cat.

“What do you mean it’s not? Are you blind? This is Sui Sui!” Shen Huan took a deep breath and retorted, seeing the cat’s shocked expression.

She squatted down, carefully approached the cat, and petted it twice, muttering that he was the one frantically looking for the cat, and now he was also the one who didn’t recognize it. Was he so overworked that his mind had broken?

Shen Huan took the cat’s side without hesitation, patting its head gently and comforting the lion cat.

“It’s okay. He doesn’t want you. We have plenty of people who do. I’ll help you find a new owner.”

The big white cat sniffed and looked up to meet the man’s gaze.

Shang Xuci thought he was dreaming. His heels felt rooted to the ground, unable to move a step. He pursed his lips tightly, staring at the lion cat with greed.

Thinner.
Dirty.
Had he been wronged outside?

Thinking of the cat’s browsing history, Shang Xuci felt a pang of fear—afraid this was a beautiful dream that would shatter at the slightest touch.

His eyes were slightly sore, and he cried inwardly with difficulty: Sui Sui.

Feeling the aggressive gaze scrutinizing him inch by inch, finally landing on his tail, Jian Xun quickly flicked the tip of his tail—stained red by wine—and let it hang limply behind him. He then tucked his muddy hind legs behind his front paws and lowered his head to hide his dejection and panic.

“Mia~” A soft meow. The cat tried to jog his memory.

It’s me, Sui Sui.

Just a few months apart, and you don’t recognize me anymore?

Jian Xun naturally sensed his indifference and felt lost.

He also thought this man was truly despicable. Wasn’t it for him that he had run away from home?

The big white cat stared angrily up at him—then suddenly caught an unusual scent.

Cat alert!

Ears pricked up.

The scent mingled with Shang Xuci’s—a familiar scent of its own kind.

Jian Xun, now bristling, bared his teeth and hissed at Shang Xuci.

“Meow!”

Come out! Where did this little stray cat come from?

Shang Xuci stared at the cat, which was acting so aggressively toward him, and wondered how its expression could change so quickly.

A cute white cat’s head suddenly popped out of his pocket, curiously looking around, its large, moist eyes fixed on the tall, majestic lion cat.

“Meow,” a soft, kittenish voice echoed.

To Jian Xun’s surprise, the kitten brazenly stepped onto Shang Xuci’s pocket. Judging from Shang Xuci’s reaction, he was surprisingly gentle, even petting the cat in his pocket.

The big white cat’s mind went blank. He stared at Shang Xuci’s expensive black leather shoes, then, like a madman, rushed forward and stomped on them twice.

The next moment, the white furry creature transformed into a streak of lightning—flashing past his legs and darting out through the crack in the back door.

The room returned to silence. The guests continued chatting quietly, as if nothing had happened. Shang Xuci stood there, looking down at the two gray-and-white plum-shaped paw prints on his shoes, still not fully recovered.

“Brother, the cat! The cat’s gone!!!” Shen Huan gently patted Shang Xuci’s shoulder and ran after it.

He has another cat!

Another cat!

That was the only thought in Jian Xun’s mind, and he ran as fast as he could.

Run!

He’s leaving!

From the back garden, he dashed across the gravel path, climbed through the plants in the flowerbed, and scrambled desperately with his tail tucked in. He pushed through the crowd, leapt onto the wall, and looked back at Shen Huan, who was chasing him and calling out “Sui Sui.”

Seeing that she was the only one chasing, his eyes revealed loss and sadness. He meowed at her, then, without looking back, jumped off the wall and vanished into the endless stream of people.

Shang Xuci finally came to his senses—but the cat was already gone.

Then he noticed a strange smell. Reaching into his pocket to take the little white cat out, he felt something wet.

One glance told him the truth: the cat had urinated in his pocket!

Veins bulged on Shang Xuci’s forehead, and he froze in disbelief. In the next moment, he tore off his coat, disregarding all decorum, and chased after Shen Huan, who had already gotten outside.

“Did the cat run away?” he asked urgently.

“Why did you just come now? Sui Sui’s gone,” Shen Huan replied.

Shang Xuci’s face darkened. He mercilessly tossed the kitten to her.

“Your cat peed on my clothes.”

Shen Huan: !!!

Tonight’s dinner had been Shang Xuci’s main event—yet the man had rushed out of the hotel just as it was about to begin.

Rumor had it, it was all because of a cat.

The cold wind bit hard, sharper than the hotel’s warm air. Pedestrians outside were bundled in thick coats, hands stuffed in pockets, their steps quick.

Shang Xuci, stripped of his coat, was left wearing only a shirt and a thin vest.

He ran, calling out Sui Sui, not caring how he looked.

He searched for the cat like a headless fly, looking everywhere for it. Whether it was a filthy trash can, a dark alley, or even a green space with a hidden thorny flowerbed, Shang Xuci left no place unchecked.

The temperature in City A was below zero. Unlike the past few days of snow, a light drizzle had begun to fall, accompanied by a howling wind that made the weather even colder.

The number of pedestrians on the road gradually thinned. Squatting by a flowerbed, Shang Xuci suddenly felt nauseous. His stomach churned, and his internal organs burned with pain. His eyes turned red, his head swam, and his throat itched before he broke into a coughing fit.

Coughing non-stop.

…

[Warning: The target’s darkening value has spiked during the rescue mission. The character’s emotions are fluctuating excessively. Please reach the target within one minute and continue the mission, otherwise the rescue will fail.]

The previously silent panel suddenly emitted a mechanical sound, startling Jian Xun so much that he jumped out of the flowerbed.

Then he saw the man frantically searching for the cat.

It’s so cold… why is he wearing so little?!

His heart softened.

Without a word, Jian Xun rushed to Shang Xuci’s side.

Shang Xuci pressed his fist to his lips to muffle his coughing, but the action only made it harder to breathe. His vision darkened, and he was about to collapse when he saw a lion cat sprinting toward him.

Bang!

Shang Xuci fell to the ground.

…

The dazzling sunlight crept in through the window, adding a touch of warmth to the cold furnishings in the room.

“He’s fine now. You can go home and rest.”

“Is he really okay? When will he wake up?”

“He just fell asleep from exhaustion. He’s been under a lot of pressure lately, and his lifestyle has been irregular. I haven’t had a good night’s sleep in ages…”

He could vaguely hear voices beside him, but he couldn’t make out the words clearly. One belonged to an unfamiliar, youthful boy, the other to Gu Ming.

Where was he?

Where was Sui Sui?!

Shang Xuci remembered that the last time he closed his eyes, he had seen Sui Sui running toward him. Was it just a dream?

Thinking of the cat, Shang Xuci struggled to open his eyes.

“He’s awake.”

Shang Xuci sat up, rubbing his forehead, and asked, “Where’s the cat?”

Once his mind cleared, he looked at Gu Ming.

Gu Ming pulled Jian Xun, who was about to leave, and introduced him to Shang Xuci.

“This brother brought you to the hospital. I didn’t see the cat at the scene.”

Jian Xun was wearing a mask and kept his eyes lowered, not daring to look at Shang Xuci.

Shang Xuci simply glanced at Jian Xun, then lowered his head and murmured, “How could that be?”

Jian Xun quietly retreated and transformed back into a cat.

Then he returned to the house and scratched at the door.

Pa-chi-pa-chi-chi.

He jumped up and opened the door.

After entering, he closed it gracefully with a soft kick, then stood at the doorway, gazing toward the ward.

The patient was already asleep.

The cat quietly ran to the bedside, stood up, placed its front paws on the edge, stretched its head forward, and stared at him. Then it jumped onto the bed, squatted next to the man’s pillow, and nudged him.

After sniffing twice more, the cat frowned and retreated to the end of the bed.

Gu Ming came to check on the room and saw the cat curled up at the foot of the bed, surprise flickering in his eyes. He whispered to the accompanying nurse, “This cat belongs to Mr. Shang. No need to chase it away.”

“Okay.”

The cat didn’t leave until evening.

The aftereffects of the cat family’s curse hadn’t completely worn off yet. Jian Xun couldn’t remain in cat form for long—except when sleeping, which allowed him to sustain it longer.

He wanted to stay until Shang Xuci woke up and saw him first.

When Shang Xuci woke again, it was already dark. Dizzy, he sat up—only to meet a pair of beautiful, deep blue cat eyes.

Shang Xuci’s lips were dry as he whispered, “Sui Sui.”

Outside the hospital door, Gu Ming’s hand slipped from the doorknob. He quietly closed it again.

The awkwardness from their daytime encounter faded, leaving just one man and one cat alone in the room.

Jian Xun curled up at the end of the bed, his long, fluffy tail tucked into his arms, his hands in his pockets, staring at him calmly.

He didn’t know how to face Shang Xuci. Men might not be able to smell it, but to a cat, the strong scent clinging to him was like a mark—one that made other cats dislike him.

After his hasty escape and his voluntary return, Jian Xun was nervous and uneasy. When Shang Xuci’s gaze met his, he looked away guiltily.

Luckily, he was now a cat, so he could pretend to understand nothing.

Jian Xun remained motionless, waiting for Shang Xuci to speak.

Shang Xuci’s lips were pale, his eyes dark-rimmed, and he looked incredibly haggard.

He opened his mouth, wiggled his fingers, and called again, “Sui Sui.”

His voice was rough and hoarse.

Jian Xun meowed softly but did not move.

Shang Xuci had reflected on his behavior at the banquet the previous day, and now, seeing the clingy cat keeping its distance, he felt uneasy.

“When I said it wasn’t my cat, I wasn’t talking about you.”

“I was just… so surprised. I didn’t expect you to come to my house.”

He had hired a nanny to help clean the place where he used to live. He would go back occasionally, just in case the cat came home and found no one.

He had believed the note was from his cat.

He said he’d come back—and he meant it.

Shang Xuci’s voice was hoarse yet gentle, his gaze on the cat warm, his expression firm and focused.

Jian Xun was moved by his sincerity and took a small step forward.

Shang Xuci smiled and continued, “I don’t have any other cats.”

“The cat in my pocket was Shen Huan’s kitten. She shoved it into my pocket that day.”

“And it peed all over me.”

Shang Xuci lifted his arm to sniff at his sleeve, his brows knitting slightly.

No wonder Sui Sui hadn’t wanted to get close to him.

Between the smell of urine, the frantic search for the cat, and the sweat from his fever, he almost hated himself.

“I’m sorry. I should have found you sooner.”

“Don’t run away from home again.”

“I’ll be worried.”

---