Extra 1 : The Cub Turns into a Little Bear (1)

“Young Master, go to sleep now. Tomorrow, you’re going to Lele’s house to play.”

The butler tucked Xie Heng in, patting his round little head.

A small child lay on the bed, his big black-and-white eyes wide open, so clear they reflected the people around him.

Little Xie Heng pouted. “I don’t want to. I have to wait for Daddy to come back and say goodnight before I sleep.”

Two nannies who were responsible for looking after Xie Heng stood nearby. Hearing his childish words, they couldn’t help but chuckle.

Mostly because Xie Heng was just too cute. His skin was fair and flawless, his little round face soft like milk tofu, and his features delicate and well-shaped. Even at five years old, it was easy to tell he’d grow up to be very handsome.

Everyone in the house, including the servants, adored him.

Xie Heng himself was very lovable. He was always polite, always well-behaved. A little darling. But his favorite person was still his Dad. He clung to Xie Yizhao every day. Sometimes, when he had nightmares in the middle of the night, he’d wake up crying for his Dad to hold him.

Unfortunately, Mr. Xie was always too busy with work and rarely had time to accompany his little son.

The butler, feeling a little sorry for him, picked up the teddy bear by the bed and tucked it into Xie Heng’s arms. “Go to sleep first. Master is on a business trip tonight and will be back tomorrow.”

The little boy blinked, disappointed, but hugged the teddy bear tightly.

It was his favorite toy. He couldn’t sleep without it.

He whispered, “Why is Daddy always on business trips?”

The butler sighed. “It’s for work, Young Master. You’ll understand when you grow up.”

Xie Qi stared at him with big, expectant eyes. “Uncle Butler, can you tell Daddy to take me with him next time?”

“…”

Everyone in the room chuckled.

Such childish words.

Luckily, Xie Heng fell asleep quickly, hugging his teddy bear, his breathing soon slow and steady.

The next day, as planned, Xie Heng went to Lele’s house to play.

Lele was his kindergarten classmate. They both lived in the same villa district and often played together.

Today was Lele’s birthday, and he had invited many children over.

Originally, Xie Heng was supposed to stay for dinner and play a little longer before coming home. But before it was even 3 PM, he came running back home crying, with two bodyguards—assigned by Mr. Xie to protect him—following behind.

When asked, it turned out that Xie Heng had gotten into a fight with Lele at his house. Both kids had cried terribly.

“Xiao Heng, aren’t you and Lele good friends? Why did you fight? Do you want Uncle to take you back to play?”

Xie Heng shook off the hand reaching for him and ran upstairs, still sobbing. “No! I’m never playing with him again!”

The fight had happened in the playroom while the kids were playing. The bodyguards had been standing outside, so they had no idea what had gone down.

Later that night, around 9 PM, Xie Yizhao came home. Upon hearing what had happened, he went upstairs to check on Xie Heng.

Seeing his Dad, Xie Heng finally pouted and spoke up, looking aggrieved.

“Yangyang’s Dad got him a stepmother. Lele said that sooner or later, you’d get me one too. I got so mad… so I hit him.”

Xie Yizhao paused for a moment at that, then let out a soft chuckle. He ruffled his son’s head and said gently, “Daddy won’t get you a stepmother.”

Xie Heng felt a little relieved but was still upset.

Daddy wasn’t going to find him a stepmother, that’s good. He knew Lele was just talking nonsense.

But… what about his own Mommy?

Other kids all had Moms.

His head was full of questions, but he didn’t dare ask.

Even at five years old, he understood a lot. People often praised him for being a smart kid.

He had asked this question so many times before…

Every time, Daddy said he didn’t know.

And Xie Heng could tell. Whenever he mentioned Mommy, Daddy would get upset. He could feel it.

At 8:30, Xie Yizhao read him a few bedtime stories. After making sure he had fallen asleep, he left the room.

But as soon as he was gone, the little boy’s eyes snapped open.

Xie Heng sat up in bed, hugging his teddy bear.

“It’s still early. I don’t want to sleep yet,” he muttered. He rubbed his arm where he had gotten hit earlier and puffed up his cheeks in frustration. “I’m never playing with Lele again. He’s lost me forever.”

His teddy bear gazed at him silently.

Xie Heng hugged it tighter and let out a troubled sigh.

This teddy bear had been a gift from his Dad when he was three. It was soft and fluffy, almost as big as he was, and hugging it felt extra comforting.

When no one else was around, Xie Heng liked talking to it.

“Sigh, Bear Bear, where is my Mommy?” The little boy blinked. “Some people say my Mommy is dead, but that can’t be true, right?”

Then he frowned. “But… what does ‘dead’ mean?”

The teddy bear : “…”

“Sigh, if only you could talk,” he murmured, stroking the bear’s head, just like how the grown-ups always patted his.

He yawned. Even though he didn’t want to sleep yet and still wanted to talk with his best friend, Bear Bear… he was so, so sleepy.

His eyelids grew heavier and heavier, and his little head felt fuzzy.

He was about to drift off when—

“Xiao Heng, Xiao Heng Heng.”

Xie Heng frowned and puffed up his little cheeks. Who was calling him?

“It’s me! Your best friend, Bear Bear.”

A soft, childlike voice rang out—sounding a little silly.

He had never heard this voice before, yet somehow, it felt strangely familiar.

But… wait.

He hadn’t been talking just now. So how had Bear Bear heard him?

Wait a second.

How could Bear Bear talk?!

The little boy’s eyes flew open.

But all he saw was darkness.

No… not complete darkness. If he looked closely, there were tiny, glimmering specks scattered across the blackness—glowing faintly, like a starry sky.

Xie Heng rubbed his eyes.

How strange.

“Am I dreaming?” Xie Heng couldn’t help but wonder.

“This isn’t a dream! I’m here to help you. Didn’t you want to see your Mom? I can send you to her.”

Xie Heng’s eyes lit up. “Really?!”

Bear Bear nodded. “Mhm! But my power is limited. I can’t sustain it for too long, so you’ll have to come back soon.”

“How soon… exactly?” Xie Heng hesitated. “I want to see my Mom every day!”

He really hoped it wouldn’t be over in a flash, what if he barely got a glimpse of her face?

Bear Bear, hearing his thoughts directly, hesitated before saying, “Do you want to save her?”

Xie Heng blinked. “Save her? Is my Mom in danger?”

Bear Bear felt that explaining to a five-year-old would be too complicated, so he simply said, “Basically, you have to work hard to save her. Only when you grow up will your Mom be able to return to you.”

Mom can come back?

The little cub was both excited and anxious. His big, innocent eyes sparkled as he shouted, “I want to! I want to!”

The moment the words left his mouth, the world around him spun wildly.

When he opened his eyes again, he found himself lying in the middle of a grassy lawn, staring up at an unfamiliar house.

Xie Heng bit his lip and got up, looking confused.

Where is this?

Suddenly, a cold, mechanical voice—completely different from Bear Bear’s—rang in his mind:

[Mission for Xie Heng: Retrieve Lu Xi’s strawberry hair clip. Completing the task will clear the level and unlock the next stage.]

Xie Heng blinked.

A mission? The next level?

This sounded fun, just like a game!

His lips curled into a grin, revealing small, pearly white baby teeth. But just as he was about to celebrate, his legs suddenly went weak, and he collapsed onto the ground.

Whimper…

He hated falling, it always hurt so much!

The little cub was about to burst into tears. He sniffled twice but then noticed something strange.

It… it didn’t hurt at all?

Xie Heng stared at his chubby little hands, then looked down at his outstretched feet.

!!!

Oh no! Why did he turn into a bear?!

[This is a special setting in this world.]

[You will take the form of a little bear. Only with a kiss from your Mom can you temporarily return to your human form, but there will be a time limit.]

Xie Heng was completely lost.

He hung his round, fluffy head, trying to clench his fingers, only to realize he had none. His arms had turned into plump, furry paws!

*Whimper, whimper*… Now he was even sadder.

Where’s Mom?

Since little bears couldn’t shed tears, Xie Heng could only pretend to cry, rubbing his fluffy paw against the nonexistent tears on his face.

At that moment, footsteps sounded behind him.

Before he could turn around, he was suddenly lifted upside down by his legs.

A girl’s surprised voice exclaimed, “There really is a little bear!”

She was still in her pajamas, shivering slightly from the early spring chill in the courtyard. Without hesitation, she carried the little bear back into the house, straight to her bedroom.

Her name was Lu Xi. She was twelve years old and had just started middle school.

That night, after taking a bath, she had been chatting with her friends when a strange app installation message popped up on her phone.

Before she could react, the app had already installed itself on her home screen.

[Little Bear Cub Care App]

At first, she thought it was some kind of virus and tried to delete it immediately.

But no matter what she did, she couldn’t remove it.

Thinking of a classmate who was good with phones and even knew how to flash ROMs, Lu Xi sent him a screenshot, asking for help.

Yet when she checked the screenshot, the app wasn’t visible on her home screen at all.

Classmate : ???

Lu Xi was just as confused.

That was when she realized, this app was weird.

After hesitating for a few seconds, she mustered some inexplicable courage and tapped on the app.

Her heart pounded. She held the phone at arm’s length, half-expecting a terrifying image to pop up.

But instead, the screen displayed a cartoonish, playful illustration.

A chubby little bear lay on a lawn, looking round and adorable.

Then, a few lines of text appeared :

[Congratulations! You have been selected as a beta tester for this app. Welcome to the world of raising your own cute little bear.]

[Inside the bear’s body is a trapped child. Only with your kiss can he temporarily return to his original form.]

[The little bear will occasionally call for help. A qualified owner should respond promptly!]

[Warning: Please complete tasks within the given time limit. Failure to do so will result in the bear disappearing.]

Lu Xi frowned.

Disappear? What does that mean… completely disappear?

Would the child inside disappear too?

For some reason, her heart clenched at the thought.

The screen lit up again with another prompt.

[The little bear has woken up! He’s all alone and scared. Take him home immediately.]

[Countdown: 3 minutes.]

At that moment, she didn’t care how strange the app was. She jumped out of bed and ran straight to the courtyard.

And sure enough, there was a little bear!

---

And that was how the little cub ended up dangling upside down, being carried back to Lu Xi’s bedroom.

Luckily, he was still in bear form, so being carried like this didn’t hurt.

But it was so embarrassing!

He wanted to shout, “Put me down, you crazy woman!” but he didn’t have a voice.

Lu Xi shut the door, placed the bear on her desk, and furrowed her brows, deep in thought.

So… all I have to do is kiss this bear, and he’ll turn back into a little kid?

Like a prince turning into a frog? Or rather, a cub turning into a child?

---

After the meeting, Lu Xi saw a message from Xie Yizhao.

[I’m waiting at the school gate.]

Lu Xi smiled, holding her phone.

She picked up her unfinished coconut water and met up with Xie Heng at the classroom door. She showed him the message. “Your Dad’s at the gate. Let’s go find him.”

Xie Heng gave a quiet “Oh,” then instinctively took her unfinished drink and her small purse.

He walked quietly beside her.

As they reached the hallway, Lu Xi remembered something and handed him the report card. She grinned. “Congratulations, Xiao Heng! You improved again, by twenty ranks this time. We’ll show your Dad later.”

Xie Heng took the paper and glanced at it but didn’t seem particularly excited.

Lu Xi looked at him. “Why don’t you look happy about your progress?”

“It’s nothing.” Xie Heng touched the bridge of his nose, trying to sound casual. “Uh… is your phone out of data or something?”

Lu Xi was confused. She checked her phone and showed him, “No, full signal. Why?”

Xie Heng blinked slowly, then shook his head.

“…” Lu Xi was speechless at his subtle little look.

Teenagers are always a little weird but also very cute, Who knows what goes on in their heads all day long?

Xie Yizhao was sitting in the car, waiting for them.

He had signed the contract at noon today and booked the earliest afternoon flight on purpose. He only had lunch once he was on the plane.

Li Xiao dropped Xie Yizhao off at the school gate, and Xie Yizhao told him and the driver to head back first.

Instead, Xie Yizhao got into the car that Lu Xi came on and waited for her there.

When he saw them walking over from the school entrance, Xie Yizhao stepped out of the car, held the door open, and gestured for Lu Xi to get in.

Lu Xi beamed at him and said cheerfully, “CEO Xie, you’ve worked hard! You’re being so attentive today.”

Xie Yizhao pressed his lips together slightly and responded in a warm, measured tone, “Not too bad. CEO Lu coming to the parent-teacher meeting has worked hard too.”

“…” That was a statement Xie Heng did not appreciate.

Hard work? No way! Obviously, coming here made his Mom proud!

He lifted his chin slightly and handed his report card to Xie Yizhao. “Here, take a look. Don’t you think my grades deserve some of your attentiveness too, CEO Xie?”

Xie Yizhao took the report card, his gaze sweeping over it quickly, yet he examined it carefully. A faint smile appeared on his face.

He didn’t say anything, just glanced at Xie Heng indifferently before stepping forward and opening the passenger door. “After you, Young Master.”

Xie Heng had just been joking.

He froze for a second, suddenly feeling strange.

He was a little flustered, worried that his Dad might suddenly smack him, but mostly, he felt happy.

Ha! His Dad actually lowered himself to open the car door for him! Besides Ms. Lu, was there anyone else who had received such treatment?

Xie Heng couldn’t help but feel a little smug.

But the moment he got in the car, he heard Xie Yizhao say to Lu Xi, “See that? This brat is getting more and more arrogant, he’s even ordering me around now.”

Lu Xi was in the middle of typing out a post for her social media.

Hearing this, she paused in surprise. Wait, what? Was Xie Yizhao… complaining to her about their son?

Xie Heng also found it ridiculous.

What was wrong with his Dad? Was his Dad really that sensitive? Complaining to his Mom like this?

Then he thought again. Wait, that’s not right.

If even his Dad, a grown man, could complain, then as a kid, shouldn’t he be allowed to speak up about his grievances too?

Xie Heng turned his head to look at Lu Xi and asked in a low voice, “Do you think I did well on my test this time?”

Lu Xi replied, “Of course! You improved by twenty ranks, that’s a big deal!”

“Then are you happy? Are you proud of me?” Xie Heng pressed on.

“Of course. Didn’t you see me like your post just now?” Lu Xi found his line of questioning odd.

Xie Heng suppressed a smile and asked proudly, “Then why didn’t you post about my grades to show off?”

Lu Xi stared at him for several seconds, furrowing her brows. She opened her mouth, about to tease him, but seeing his stubborn and slightly awkward expression, she couldn’t help but laugh. Instead of making fun of him, she asked, “Is your internet slow? Try refreshing your feed.”

Xie Heng blinked.

Could it be…

He quickly pulled out his phone and tapped a few times.

This time, he saw it.

A post from Lu Xi, made just a minute ago.

The attached image was of his report card, specifically the handwritten note from his homeroom teacher.

[Attended the parent-teacher meeting today! My boy really made me proud!]

A bright smile spread across Xie Heng’s face—pure, unrestrained joy.

Lu Xi and Xie Yizhao exchanged a glance.

Both could see the same thought in each other’s eyes—our boy is growing up, but the road to maturity is still long.

Even though Xie Heng had inherited Xie Yizhao’s height and frame, making him look nearly like an adult, there was still a touch of youthful inexperience to him.

But in their eyes, he was still a kid.

Even Xie Yizhao now believed that, as a parent, he should be more understanding and less critical of his son.

Besides, Xie Heng really had changed a lot.

Not just in academics—his social circle, his attitude, everything was different from before.

Even their relationship had shifted.

Not long ago, Xie Yizhao wouldn’t have imagined sitting in the same car with Xie Heng, sharing lighthearted conversation without tension.

Just a short while back, he had noticed a new coffee machine in the kitchen.

Every morning before school, Xie Heng would make a cup of coffee for Lu Xi.

So one day, Xie Yizhao tested the waters and asked, “Is there not one for me?”

Xie Heng had been in a rush for school, so he didn’t say anything.

But the next morning, beside Lu Xi’s cup on the dining table, there was an extra black coffee for him.

That entire day, Xie Yizhao had been in a great mood—. Een his assistant and a few executives noticed.

He had always kept his emotions under control, maintaining a composed and unreadable demeanor. It was a habit, a way to keep people from guessing his thoughts and preferences.

But that day, he didn’t bother hiding it. He felt relaxed.

Just like now.

He wasn’t one to post on social media like Lu Xi, but he felt just as proud of Xie Heng. Not just for his academic progress but for the way he was growing as a person.

For the first time, Xie Yizhao felt at ease as a father.

Before this, he had been unsure, not knowing how to guide his son or what direction would be best for his son.

But now, it was clear. He didn’t need to worry anymore.

Xie Heng was already becoming an outstanding young man. Like a sunflower, growing strong and tall, always turning toward the light.

Looking in the rearview mirror, Xie Yizhao met Xie Heng’s eyes and gave a slight nod. “You did great on this test. Next time, I’ll attend your parent-teacher meeting, make sure to make me proud.”

The boy grinned, confident and full of pride. “Of course!”

Beside them, Lu Xi rolled down the car window, letting the gentle spring breeze in.

She spoke in a soft, sweet voice, laughing as she said, “Then Xiao Heng gets to decide where we eat tonight.”

---

Xie Heng decided they would go to Lu Xi’s hot spring estate for dinner.

The last time he was there, he had only dropped her off and left quickly, not wanting to disturb his Dad’s proposal.

Honestly, the food wasn’t the main point. He had heard there was a maze there, and he wanted to try it out.

Lu Xi was now the official owner of the estate.

The day after the proposal, she and Xie Yizhao had gone to complete the ownership transfer together.

On the way to handle some paperwork, Xie Yizhao suddenly told her in an easygoing tone that he had accidentally torn up their prenuptial agreement.

Lu Xi was bewildered.

Under what circumstances would someone tear up such an important document?

Xie Yizhao held her hand and said as casually as if he were talking about the weather, “If yours is useless too, why not tear it up as well?”

Lu Xi was speechless for a moment before she couldn’t help but laugh, collapsing into his arms.

He spoke as if he were merely shredding a worthless scrap of paper, rather than giving away half of his assets.

Lu Xi reached out a finger and playfully tapped his face. “Then you better keep sweet-talking me, or I’ll divorce you, take half your fortune, and find myself a pretty boy to spoil.”

Xie Yizhao raised an eyebrow. “I’m not worried. You don’t like pretty boys. You only like me.”

“…”

Lu Xi was truly defeated by him.

But he wasn’t wrong. At least, in this world, she hadn’t found anyone more charming or more worthy of a lifetime commitment than him.

And as for everything in this moment, she cherished it deeply.

There was nothing that needed to change.

---

The three of them had dinner together. Xie Heng and Xie Yizhao both had some alcohol. Lu Xi ignored it. It was a happy occasion, getting drunk wouldn’t hurt.

After the meal, Xie Heng suggested going to the maze.

Why not?

As soon as they entered, Xie Heng confidently declared that since he was good at puzzle games, he must also be good at mazes. He swore to lead Lu Xi and Xie Yizhao out.

Lu Xi didn’t mind.

It was just a post-dinner stroll. Eventually, they’d find the exit.

The night was peaceful, and the air carried a slight chill.

Maybe it was the good mood, or maybe the alcohol had loosened him up, but Xie Heng couldn’t resist bringing up his desire to train at a martial arts gym.

He made sure to emphasize, “I promise it won’t affect my studies. I’ll only go once a week.”

Xie Yizhao walked beside Lu Xi, glancing at him. “I won’t stop you if you want to go, but can I ask why?”

“I want to beat you,” Xie Heng blurted out boldly. But when he caught sight of Xie Yizhao’s calm gaze, he licked his lips and quickly corrected himself, “A tie would be fine too.”

Xie Yizhao chuckled. “And then what?”

Xie Heng thought for a moment before saying, “Then it means I’ve improved. If I become a police officer, I won’t be in danger. Would you finally approve of me becoming one?”

Even Lu Xi couldn’t help but glance at him, then turned expectantly to the man beside her, anticipating his answer.

But Xie Yizhao simply said, “I never said I wouldn’t allow you to become a police officer.”

Xie Heng was stunned. “But last time you clearly said you didn’t agree…”

“I only said that if you hadn’t thought it through, then I wouldn’t recommend it. For example, right now, you think that just because you can match me in a fight, you’d be fit to be a police officer. Or because those two kids saw you as a hero when you saved them, you suddenly feel tempted to take this path. If those are your reasons, then I think you should be more cautious.”

His tone was calm, never sounding condescending.

It made Xie Heng listen.

Even if… he couldn’t quite understand it all yet.

Looking at the teenager beside him, already nearly his height but still full of uncertainty, Xie Yizhao sighed lightly and patiently continued, “I just hope you don’t rush into a decision. You still have time to think. When the day comes that your dream is truly for yourself and not to fulfill someone else’s expectations, your Mom and I will fully support you.”

Xie Heng blinked slowly. He thought he understood.

He didn’t say anything and kept walking ahead, listening to his Mom and Dad chatting behind him. His steps were a little unsteady, his head a bit fuzzy, but for some reason, his heart felt light.

Except… after nearly twenty minutes of walking, they still hadn’t found the exit.

Lu Xi noticed something was off. She called out teasingly, “Kiddo, are you lost? Are you drunk?”

If they kept wandering like this, they might have to spend the night here.

Unexpectedly, the usually prideful Xie Heng nodded and admitted without hesitation, “Yeah, I’m drunk. I can’t find the way out. You guys lead me.”

With that, he walked over, hooked his arm around Lu Xi’s, and leaned his head against her shoulder like a little kid.

Lu Xi’s eye twitched.

This brat. He’s sixteen, not three! He was way too heavy, she couldn’t handle this!

She pushed at his forehead. “Hey, kid, get up! I’m going to fall over!”

Xie Heng’s gaze was hazy with drunkenness, full of reliance.

Luckily, Xie Yizhao was right there. He grabbed Xie Heng’s arm, steadying him, and warned in a low, helpless voice, “Don’t bother your Mom. She can’t hold you up.”

Xie Heng stopped walking.

He rubbed his forehead, swayed a little, then suddenly grinned cheekily. “Then, Dad, you carry me. I really can’t walk anymore.”

“…” Xie Yizhao looked at him like he was watching a mischievous monkey at the zoo.

This ungrateful brat was really pushing it.

Lu Xi tugged at his sleeve. “What else can you do? He’s your kid. If you don’t carry him, what’s the alternative? Leave him here? That’d be so pitiful…”

Xie Yizhao curled his lips. “Pitiful? I think leaving him here sounds like a great idea.”

That’s what he said, but both father and son shared the same soft-hearted nature.

Xie Yizhao glanced at Xie Heng. The boy was still standing there stubbornly, like a little kid in a toy store refusing to leave without a new toy. He was just short of throwing himself on the ground and wailing.

With a sigh, Xie Yizhao pinched the bridge of his nose. He had no choice. Finally, he beckoned with an expressionless face, “Just this once. Don’t expect it again.”

Xie Heng’s eyes lit up.

Step by step, he walked toward his parents.

His head was still spinning, and his Dad’s words from earlier weren’t completely clear to him yet, but that didn’t matter.

Even if he was lost in this maze, it didn’t matter. His Mom and Dad would lead him out, and they would go home together.

Tonight, he was a happy little sunflower pup.

---

rokumi’s note : The main story ends here. There will be 7 extra chapters.

---

No matter what the other students thought, Lu Xi found the situation somewhat indescribable.

After all, she had just witnessed her own kid kick someone…

Calling him a victim seemed a bit far-fetched, didn’t it?

However, it was obvious they were just messing around as friends. Even the ones who got kicked were all laughing, so she didn’t take it too seriously.

Still, standing at the classroom door like this made them easy targets for onlookers. Lu Xi cleared her throat and asked, “Weren’t you going to buy me some water?”

Xie Heng replied, “Oh, right! It’s their fault for delaying me.”

Everyone: ?

—Boss Xie, you’re really something else. If you want to act spoiled in front of your Mom, at least don’t shift the blame onto us! Sure, we can’t beat you in a fight, but we can still go home and complain to our own Moms!

After Lu Xi returned to the classroom, Xie Heng greeted the others before heading downstairs.

Some students were confused and whispered, “He said she’s his real Mom? What does that mean? Isn’t she his stepmother?”

No one understood.

But what was clear to everyone was how much Xie Heng respected and adored her. Even if she wasn’t his real mother, she was as good as one.

Not just anyone could get the school tyrant to eagerly fetch them a drink.

Lu Xi was unaware that she had once again become the subject of speculation among some students and parents. Even if she knew, she wouldn’t care.

Some people already knew her true identity, but most still assumed she was Xie Yizhao’s new wife. She didn’t mind and saw no need to explain.

Life was meant to be lived for oneself.

And those who were curious wouldn’t be so bored as to gossip openly.

Many parents of Class A students were on good terms with Lu Xi now. Some mothers were even clients of her studio. When they entered the room and saw her, they greeted her warmly.

Two of them sat in the rows in front and behind her. Among them was Song Siyang’s mother, who instinctively glanced at Lu Xi’s hands.

Rumor had it that Xie Yizhao had gifted his wife a top-tier pink diamond ring and a private hot spring estate—news that had spread throughout their social circles.

The estate reportedly included not just a private hot spring but also a stunning hedge maze, a garden, and an in-house restaurant.

“Oh my, Mrs. Xie, why aren’t you wearing the pink diamond today? I was hoping to get a glimpse of it,” the parent sitting in front of Lu Xi turned around and stared at her hands intently.

She might not have meant anything by it, but words could be misinterpreted. Soon, several curious gazes turned toward Lu Xi.

Lu Xi frowned slightly.

Mrs. Song quickly changed the subject. Noticing the radiant pearl resting just below Lu Xi’s collarbone, she exclaimed in admiration, “That necklace is gorgeous! CEO Lu, you wear pearls with such elegance.”

Her son, Song Siyang, always referred to Lu Xi as ‘CEO Lu,’ so she had picked up the habit too.

Lu Xi smiled gently and carefully brushed her fingertip over the pearl. “Thank you. It was a gift from Xiao Heng last year.”

She found the previous woman a bit foolish.

She was here for a parent-teacher meeting, not a wealth showcase. Why would she wear such an extravagant diamond ring? No matter how beautiful something was, there was a time and place for it.

For daily wear, her most frequently seen accessory was still the pearl necklace from Xie Heng. It was simple yet refined, elegant yet eye-catching. The pink diamond, on the other hand, was more suited for banquets, or for her own private enjoyment.

Mrs. Song took note of this and found herself liking Lu Xi even more, even admiring her a bit.

Such emotional intelligence! Though she was a whole generation younger than them, she carried herself with grace and composure. No wonder she had managed to win over both the Old and Little Xie.

Xie Yizhao’s affection was a given—he wouldn’t have married her otherwise. But now, even Xie Heng clearly saw her as his real mother. In front of her, he was nothing short of a well-behaved boy.

Just as she was thinking this, Xie Heng returned, placing a bottle of coconut water in front of Lu Xi. “I’ll wait for you outside.”

Lu Xi nodded. “Go on, but don’t wander off. Your Dad is picking us up for dinner later.”

Xie Heng nodded and was about to leave.

Just then, the class monitor entered with the homeroom teacher, holding a stack of papers that immediately drew all the parents’ attention.

No one cared about Lu Xi or any pink diamonds anymore. Now, they were solely focused on their children’s exam results.

Xie Heng swallowed nervously and looked over eagerly.

Thanks to Xu Jiaming’s earlier hints, he wasn’t too worried. But he was still excited.

How much glory would he bring to Lu Xi today?

Soon, the homeroom teacher clapped her hands and asked all the remaining students to leave. The parent-teacher meeting was about to begin.

The class monitor and two subject representatives began distributing report cards.

Outside the classroom, Xie Heng stood with Xu Jiaming and Song Siyang.

Their expressions were vastly different.

Xu Jiaming remained as composed as ever. He had already estimated his score after the exams, and now that he knew his ranking, there was no suspense for him.

The only unusual thing was that Yang Yihan had specifically cleared his schedule to attend today’s meeting. For him, an otherwise ordinary day had taken on a bit more significance.

Xie Heng wasn’t worried either. He kept his eyes on Lu Xi, hoping the report cards would be handed out faster.

Only Song Siyang looked like he had an upset stomach.

He didn’t want to see, but he still caught a glimpse of his mother’s reaction upon receiving his report card.

Her expression was… incredibly grim.

His heart sank. His face screamed: I’m doomed. I’m getting a beating when I get home.

He had always been am underachiever. His parents scolded him, sure, but they were busy people. Over time, they got used to it and stopped paying much attention.

But this time was different.

Not only had he embarrassed his Mom at the parent-teacher meeting, but even his former fellow underachiever, Xie Heng, had now left him in the dust.

Soon, his Mom turned her head toward him, her eyes locked onto him with a terrifying gaze.

Terrified, he shrank back, trying to escape her line of sight.

“I give up,” he whimpered. “Brother Xu, Brother Heng, can I call you my big bros? Please take me under your wing. I never want to be a failure again.”

He was on the verge of shedding tears of regret.

---

In a different mood from Mrs. Song, Lu Xi flipped open the report card, scanning through each subject’s score before finally landing on the total score and overall ranking. At the bottom, there was a handwritten note from the teacher:

[Xie Heng has improved by 20 places since last semester’s final exam. Keep up the good work in the second half of the term!]

Lu Xi’s eyes lit up, and a smile curved on her lips. She happily turned to look out the window in search of her dear boy.

Sure enough, she spotted him standing just outside the window near her row. Their eyes met.

The boy pursed his lips slightly, raised his eyebrows smugly, and flashed a bright, toothy grin.

Lu Xi beamed at him and gave a big thumbs-up, mouthing the words, “You did amazing, my little guy.”

Xie Heng’s face turned a faint shade of red.

He knew Lu Xi too well. Even if he couldn’t hear her, he could tell she was praising him.

He turned his head away, rubbing his ear in embarrassment, only to meet Song Siyang’s expression, which was half envious and half disdainful.

“What did CEO Lu say? You’re smiling so much, you look just like my neighbor’s Samoyed.”

Xie Heng’s forehead twitched as if a vein was about to pop. He raised his hand, tempted to smack Song Siyang.

But in the end, he forced himself to hold back.

“Go away. I’m not in the mood to fight today.” Xie Heng refocused on the classroom.

Song Siyang should be grateful that Ms. Lu was here today. Xie Heng didn’t want to embarrass her, so he couldn’t be bothered to argue.

This was Lu Xi’s first time attending a parent-teacher meeting. She had a feeling like she had finally ‘made it’ after years of waiting.

Back in her school days, her grades had fluctuated—sometimes good, sometimes bad—but she had managed to get into a good university. Parent-teacher meetings had never been something she feared.

Usually, her Uncle or Aunt would attend. If neither of them could make it, they’d just request leave.

If she did poorly, she’d receive a few words of comfort. If she did well, she’d get some lukewarm praise.

Lu Xi hadn’t cared much back then. She was too young to understand, she had even felt relieved that no one was pressuring her.

But thinking back now, she realized that maybe, just maybe, she had needed more than that.

At the very least, Xie Heng needed more than that.

Before coming to the meeting, Lu Xi had already made up her mind. If Xie Heng’s grades had dropped, she would calmly but seriously criticize him and urge him to study harder. But if he did well, there would definitely be a reward.

She wouldn’t treat him with indifference.

She knew he had been behaving himself lately and working hard. He was her and Xie Yizhao’s child—there was no way he wasn’t smart. She believed in his potential.

But even so, seeing his results still filled her with delight.

Now, she had to think carefully, what gift should she prepare for Xie Heng?

The meeting lasted an hour. The homeroom teacher first gave a brief overview of the exam results.

Then, each subject teacher took turns speaking.

Next came a special segment: the teacher invited Xu Jiaming to the front of the class.

“This is Xu Jiaming, our top student. He has ranked first in every exam since entering school. Let’s have him share his study techniques.”

Song Siyang snorted. “What is this? How embarrassing!”

Xie Heng shot him a look of disdain.

He saw his past self in Song Siyang, thinking that studying seriously was something to be ashamed of.

But now…

Now, he mostly felt admiration.

If he could stand up there and give a speech, he might feel awkward, but his Dad and Ms. Lu would definitely be proud.

The homeroom teacher had already discussed this with Xu Jiaming in advance, so he was well-prepared. He had always been good at public speaking, so his delivery was smooth and confident.

Lu Xi clicked her tongue in her mind, feeling a bit impressed. She glanced at Yang Yihan, who was watching her son with obvious pride. The other parents were looking at her with envy.

At that moment, no one cared that she was a big star. They only saw her as the mother of a top student and admired her for it.

Lu Xi felt the same.

An idea struck her, and she pulled out her phone to record Xu Jiaming’s speech. She planned to listen to it later and send it to Xie Heng.

After all, this was valuable advice from a top student!

Xie Heng saw her take out her phone, tap a few times, then set it aside, resting her chin on her hand as she listened intently to Xu Jiaming, completely focused.

He suddenly felt puzzled.

Why was Ms. Lu watching so seriously? It wasn’t like this was her first time seeing Xu Jiaming.

At that moment, Song Siyang muttered, “Brother Heng, since you improved this time, CEO Lu will probably post about it on her Moments again. Better get ready.”

Hearing this, Xie Heng’s eyes lit up.

Right!

Miss Lu loved posting on social media. She had even shared videos of him singing before. How could she not brag about this?

He quickly pulled out his phone and scrolled through her updates, flipping back through the past three hours.

Nothing.

That didn’t seem right.

He had no choice but to go directly to Lu Xi’s profile page.

Her latest post was from yesterday—a selfie.

She hadn’t posted anything today.

Xie Heng put down his phone, his expression turning complicated.

---

Lu Xi and Xie Yizhao didn’t come home all night.

That night, Xie Heng couldn’t sleep either.

After being driven home, he felt restless. Even at dinner, he had no appetite and ate two bowls less than usual. The butler looked at him with concern.

After that, he sat in the living room playing video games.

Whenever he heard a noise from the driveway outside, he would immediately look up to check.

But none of the cars were his family’s.

By ten o’clock, they still hadn’t returned.

Song Siyang noticed that Xie Heng was particularly aggressive in the game that night and asked over voice chat, “Brother Heng, what’s wrong? Did your Dad scold you again?”

Xie Heng : “You’re the one who got scolded by your Dad. My Dad went on a date with Ms. Lu, and I haven’t heard anything from them. I’m just worried about them.”

“……” Song Siyang was speechless.

He didn’t get it. Xie Heng’s Dad was a grown man going on a date with his wife, not heading into battle. Why was Xie Heng worrying so much?

After a long pause, Xu Jiaming finally said, “No news is good news. Just focus on the game.”

Xie Heng sighed.

Well, that made some sense.

But he was still uneasy.

Ms. Lu was the type of person who would post on social media just to praise the coffee he made for her. Now that she was proposed to, how could she not be showing off a big diamond ring? It made no sense!

He couldn’t help but wonder, did his Dad mess up?

Still, Xie Heng had learned his lesson this time. No matter how anxious he was, he wouldn’t text or call them. If his Dad was in the middle of proposing and he interrupted, then when his Dad got home, the only thing getting interrupted would be his legs.

Xie Heng stayed up all night.

And he realized that his Dad and Ms. Lu hadn’t come home either.

According to Xu Jiaming’s theory, since there was still no news by morning, it must be good news, right?

The next day, Xie Heng went to school early.

It wasn’t until he got home from evening self-study that he finally saw Lu Xi and Xie Yizhao.

Before he could even ask, his eyes immediately landed on the dazzling pink diamond ring on Lu Xi’s hand.

Xie Heng’s face instantly lit up with a grin.

For some reason, even though it was his Dad’s proposal that had succeeded, he felt ridiculously happy.

At the same time, he let out a breath of relief.

Great. He wouldn’t have to be a kid from a single-parent family.

If his Dad had managed to convince Ms. Lu to accept his proposal, then at least for now, he wouldn’t have to worry about them anymore.

After all, his high school coursework was already keeping him busy.

Nowadays, except for Sundays, Xie Heng was out from morning till night. Occasionally, he still overslept and was late, but he never skipped class anymore.

Sometimes, he thought about slacking off.

But then he’d remember. If he skipped one day, he’d have to spend way more time making up for it. That just wasn’t worth it.

Xu Jiaming was still tutoring him.

Xie Heng felt like he had improved a lot.

Compared to last semester, the time it took for Xu Jiaming to explain things to him had nearly halved.

Sometimes, when Song Siyang tried to invite them to play basketball or game together, they were too busy. Left with no other choice, he ended up joining their study sessions instead.

As the saying goes, ‘if you can’t beat them, join them.’

But Xie Heng thought it made sense. Sometimes, he even got a sense of superiority watching Song Siyang struggle.

Song Siyang was frustrated but couldn’t do anything about it.

Sure, Xu Jiaming was undeniably a top student.

But suddenly, he realized that Xie Heng was actually pretty smart too. Not in the straight-A student way, but when Xu Jiaming explained things to Xie Heng, Xie Heng understood right away, and could even explain it back.

In class, when teachers called on Xie Heng, six or seven times out of ten, he got the answer right.

This semester, both at his school and other schools, fewer people dared to challenge Xie Heng to a fight.

A rumor had started circulating. Apparently, if you picked a fight with the school tyrant, not only would he beat you up, but he’d also report you to the teachers, parents, and even the police!

Although his reputation as a school tyrant was fading, strangely, even more girls seemed to like him.

More and more girls were openly giving him love letters, small gifts, and trying to strike up conversations.

Even the teachers noticed that his temper had improved a lot.

One morning, a few young teachers were standing at the school gate with the student patrols, catching late students.

At that moment, Xie Heng strolled into view.

He wore a hoodie with the hood up, hands in his pockets, walking quickly with his head slightly lowered. The shadow from his hood covered most of his face.

A teacher immediately called out, “Hey, you! Which class are you from? Do you know you’re late? Come sign your name!”

Xie Heng looked up, tilting his chin slightly and flipping his hood back, revealing his defiant expression.

The teacher froze.

Uh…

Wasn’t this the school’s little troublemaker? Didn’t he usually climb the fence when he was late? Since when did he start walking through the front gate properly?

Xie Heng walked over. Though his expression was a bit impatient, he still cooperated and signed his name.

After signing, he put the pen down. “Teacher, can I go now?”

“…Yes.”

Watching him walk away, the teacher felt both relieved and confused.

Had their school tyrant been possessed?

---

Xie Heng never liked the title of ‘school tyrant.’ He didn’t start it, and he never thought it was a compliment. Whoever wanted it could have it.

Right now, he was more concerned about the upcoming midterm exams.

Because after the exams came the annual parent-teacher conference.

At the conference, report cards would be handed out.

A real public execution.

Of course, that was only if he failed. But this time, Xie Heng was confident.

He might not be an all-round top student like Xu Jiaming, but at least he wouldn’t be at the bottom of the rankings, embarrassing his family.

So, the day after the exams, the teacher announced that the parent-teacher conference would be held the next evening.

Xie Heng had been expecting this.

That evening, since there were no night classes, he went home for dinner. As he sat at the table with Xie Yizhao and Lu Xi, he casually brought up the topic.

Pulling out a chair, he sat down and asked, “You two got the message, right? So, who’s going?”

He had long known about the parent group chat.

But only one parent could attend the conference and sit in the student’s seat. It was either going to be his Dad or his Mom.

Though, deep down, he already had a preference.

As he spoke, he sneaked glances at Lu Xi.

Xie Yizhao, of course, saw right through him. Smiling faintly, he asked, “Who do you want to go?”

Lu Xi also looked at him. “Yeah, tell us—who do you want to go?”

When faced with the classic ‘Who would you save first if your Mom and wife fell into the water?’ death-trap question, she had been put on the spot before. But now, she wasn’t going to let this unfilial son off the hook.

However, Xie Heng had grown smarter. He decisively tossed the question back. “I’m fine with either. I’ll listen to you two. You decide.”

With that, he started eating, acting as if the matter had nothing to do with him.

Lu Xi shook her head with a smile, exchanged a glance with Xie Yizhao, and said, still smiling, “Alright then, I’ll go. You better not embarrass me.”

Hearing this, Xie Heng, who had been shoveling food into his mouth, lifted his head. His eyes lit up, and he grinned like a cheerful golden retriever. “Really? That’s great!”

Xie Yizhao shot him a look and cleared his throat.

Xie Heng immediately caught on and followed suit with a cough. Then he furrowed his brows and feigned regret. “Sigh, Dad can’t come again this year. I’m so disappointed.”

Lu Xi couldn’t help but burst into laughter.

Was her son really this bad at acting?

She could tell, whether or not he became a police officer in the future, one thing was certain: he was absolutely not cut out for acting. His skills were abysmal.

She gave Xie Yizhao a reassuring glance and added, “Your Dad actually planned to go, but unfortunately, he had already booked a business trip last week. But next year, it’ll be his turn.”

Xie Yizhao nodded. “That’s right. Next year, whether it’s glorious or embarrassing, it’ll be on me.”

Xie Heng scoffed, lifting his chin proudly. “It won’t be embarrassing. Whoever doesn’t come is the one missing out.”

He was convinced. His Dad was only throwing cold water on him because his Dad was jealous that he wanted Lu Xi to go more.

Yes.

Dad was jealous.

Xie Heng was quite pleased with himself.

Still, there were some things he had to clarify, just in case his Dad got too upset.

Xie Heng looked at Xie Yizhao seriously. “It’s not that I don’t want you to go, but Mom has never been to one before. This opportunity should go to her.”

Looking at his son’s clear and earnest eyes, Xie Yizhao couldn’t help but smile.

He nodded. “I understand. Take good care of your Mom tomorrow. I’ll try to come back early and take you two out for dinner.”

---

That night, Xie Yizhao packed a simple bag and left for his business trip. This time, it was within the country, so he wouldn’t be gone for too long.

Lu Xi had work at the studio the next day, so she went to bed early.

But Xie Heng had trouble sleeping.

The exam results weren’t out yet.

He had estimated his score and knew he had improved. Even Xu Jiaming said there shouldn’t be any major issues.

But this was the first time Ms. Lu was attending his parent-teacher conference!

He had already talked big, acting as if he’d make her proud. But what if he flopped, like in that disastrous ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ incident? He’d never have the face to invite her to any school events again.

That night, Xie Heng tossed and turned, anxious. He didn’t fall asleep until two in the morning.

As a result, he was gloriously late the next day.

---

During lunch break, the three boys went outside the school to eat. When Xu Jiaming heard that Xie Heng had been so nervous about Lu Xi attending the meeting that he lost sleep, Xu Jiaming couldn’t help but smile.

He found it amusing.

He had helped grade the exams this time. For major tests, teachers often had top students assist with grading and entering scores into the system. They had promised not to leak scores in advance.

But in the end, Xu Jiaming still chose friendship over the teacher’s trust.

He told Xie Heng, “Relax. You won’t embarrass CEO Lu.”

Xie Heng’s eyes lit up. He instantly got the hint and eagerly asked, “So what’s my score? How many places did I move up?”

Xu Jiaming wasn’t about to answer that.

Song Siyang couldn’t resist asking, “What about me? Can I ask for a bigger allowance next month?”

Xu Jiaming glanced at him and hesitated before saying, “You… better pray for yourself.”

“…” Song Siyang’s face darkened.

---

The parent-teacher conference started at 5 p.m.

By the start of the last class, students were already restless.

Outside the windows, quite a few parents had already gathered, watching through the glass to see if their kids were paying attention.

Xie Heng sat in the back, sneaking glances at the window now and then.

Afraid that Lu Xi would suddenly appear, he even sat up straighter than usual.

However, unlike other parents, Lu Xi didn’t arrive so early.

Yang Yihan was also attending today. The two had planned to come together, so Lu Xi picked Yang Yihan up from the airport first and then rode in her car to the school.

On the way, their conversation—besides gossip and fashion—inevitably turned into a session of mutual praise about their kids.

Lu Xi : “Your Xiao Xu must be first again this time. He’s so outstanding.”

Yang Yihan laughed. “Not at all. Your Xiao Xie has made so much progress. I heard he barely fights anymore. He’s gotten so well-behaved.”

She wasn’t sure if Xie Heng’s grades had improved, but he had definitely become much more obedient.

By the time Lu Xi and Yang Yihan arrived at Class A’s door, the bell had just rung for dismissal.

Xie Heng had already spotted her. He was one of the first to rush out of the classroom and quickly led Lu Xi to his seat.

He even reassured her, “Don’t worry, my seat is very clean. Feel free to sit, make yourself comfortable.”

Lu Xi smiled and nodded.

He was a bit of a neat freak. His room was tidier than most boys’. His desk and even the inside of it were neatly arranged.

Such a well-behaved son, no trouble for his Mom at all.

Lu Xi asked, “Do you have any water? I’m thirsty.”

The school provided bottled water for parents, but Xie Heng figured she wouldn’t like it.

He checked the time. There were still plenty to spare, so he said, “Wait here, I’ll go buy you a coconut water.”

With that, he dashed off.

The moment he stepped out of the classroom, he bumped into a few teammates from the school basketball team. One of them slung an arm around his shoulder. “Come on, let’s go play ball!”

“No, I have to buy coconut water for Ms. Lu,” Xie Heng replied.

His classmates laughed and glanced into the classroom. Sure enough, they saw Lu Xi sitting in Xie Heng’s seat, smiling in their direction.

They were familiar with her by now, but they weren’t used to seeing Xie Heng act like such a good little boy.

One of them grinned and teased, “Seriously, Xie Heng? Why are you so obedient in front of your stepmom? Afraid she’ll tattle on you to your Dad?”

Xie Heng’s expression darkened instantly. He kicked the guy and cursed with a laugh, “Get lost! She’s my real mom!”

A group of tall boys crowded around the classroom door, drawing the attention of other parents inside.

Lu Xi worried that Xie Heng might start a fight. She grabbed her phone, walked over, and patted him on the shoulder. “Xie Heng, why are you kicking people?”

Xie Heng stiffened.

His previous bravado vanished instantly. His puppy eyes turned innocent, and he pointed at the guy he had kicked. “I didn’t! They bullied me first!”

---

At a fork in the path, there were two choices, left or right.

Lu Xi had intended to go left, but she still turned to Xie Yizhao out of courtesy. “Which way?”

He looked at her first, then at the right path. “How about this. You take the left, I take the right. Let’s meet at the exit and see who gets there first.”

Lu Xi narrowed her eyes slightly. “Sure, I’ll accept the challenge. But I’ll definitely get there first.”

With that, she turned left without hesitation.

Xie Yizhao, however, remained where he was, watching her figure disappear around the next corner. Only then did he let out a quiet chuckle and head to the right.

Luckily, Lu Xi was happy enough tonight that she didn’t notice his nervousness.

Yes, he was nervous.

He had never attempted something so uncertain before. And Lu Xi herself was full of uncertainties, like a mystery waiting to be unraveled.

He had never seriously talked to her about her disappearance, but deep down, he had a wild yet oddly convincing suspicion.

Over time, he had subtly tested his guess. Lu Xi never denied it. She only looked at him with those innocent almond eyes and promised she wouldn’t leave again.

He knew she wouldn’t lie to him.

But his heart was still filled with uncertainties. For the first time, he felt so lacking in security.

And today, that feeling had peaked.

He could feel how intense things had become between him and Lu Xi lately. If he proposed, she probably wouldn’t refuse. He wanted to find the perfect moment—a romantic one, where he felt completely in control.

Lu Xi had no idea that this place had been ready for her a month ago.

But he had been delaying.

For the past month, he had visited frequently under the pretense of working late. Like an obsessive perfectionist, he scrutinized every little detail, hoping that when she finally saw it, she would love everything about it.

Yet, he still hadn’t decided on the right moment to propose.

Dinner had been perfect earlier, but he had still hesitated.

Maybe it was the fear of being so close to his goal. So close that he kept subconsciously pushing it back.

Wandering through the maze, Xie Yizhao felt as if his heart was lost within it too. He couldn’t help but let out a bitter smile.

He had been through rock bottom. Now, in the eyes of the world, he was standing at the top. But only in front of her could he return to his true self and realize that, in the end, he was just an ordinary man.

A man who would agonize over her, hesitate because of her, and go to great lengths just to make her happy.

---

On the other side, Lu Xi was taking selfies while searching for the exit.

She wasn’t in a hurry at all.

For someone who loved taking pictures, how could she pass up such a perfect backdrop?

But after striking 108 different poses and snapping countless shots, she suddenly felt that something was off.

It was still easier to have someone else take pictures for her.

Too bad Xie Yizhao wasn’t here.

She suddenly regretted agreeing to split up with him earlier.

Checking the time, she realized it had been almost twenty minutes since they had separated.

Lu Xi frowned slightly. She was happy and worried at the same time. He was so smart, had he already found the exit?

“Xie Yizhao?” she called out, but there was no response. No sound of footsteps either.

A sense of urgency crept in. She put away her phone and started seriously searching for the way out.

When it came to mazes, Lu Xi had plenty of experience. The key was to stay calm. As long as it wasn’t a deliberately complex, trap-filled maze, patience would get you out eventually. It was only a matter of time.

But patience was precisely what she lacked right now.

At first, she had been focused on beating Xie Yizhao.

But as she walked, an unexpected hope started to form. What if she ran into him at the next turn?

Yet, every time she reached an intersection, her anticipation was met with disappointment.

And that disappointment kept building, spreading, turning into something deeper.

She suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to see Xie Yizhao, right now.

Even though night had fallen and she was alone, she wasn’t scared.

Despite everything she had been through, Lu Xi never really believed in ghosts or spirits. She just suddenly felt incredibly bored and lonely. She wanted to be with Xie Yizhao.

She picked up her pace, now jogging, while paying close attention to her surroundings.

She didn’t know how many turns she had taken before she finally heard faint footsteps nearby.

“Xie Yizhao?” she called again.

She didn’t realize that the footsteps came from behind her, about to turn right.

“Xiao Xi—”

A deep, magnetic voice suddenly called out from behind.

Lu Xi froze mid-step and turned around.

Xie Yizhao stood not far behind her, just a dozen steps away.

There was a faint smile on his face, his eyes deep and gentle. “I heard you calling my name.”

Lu Xi bit her lip. The moment she saw Xie Yizhao, a wave of inexplicable grievance washed over her, and she couldn’t help but run toward him.

Xie Yizhao was momentarily stunned.

The scene reminded him of their wedding day, when she had run toward him in her wedding dress.

She wasn’t in a wedding dress now, but she was just as beautiful, radiant, her eyes so pure they stirred a fierce desire to protect her.

But this time, he reacted faster.

Before she could throw herself into his arms, he took a step forward and caught her precisely.

Lu Xi pouted. “I called you so many times!”

Xie Yizhao stroked her head affectionately. “I’m sorry, my fault. I shouldn’t have had this place designed so big.”

Lu Xi immediately caught the key detail. “You had it designed? You own this place?”

He smiled. “Right now, it’s mine. But tomorrow, it’ll be yours.”

Lu Xi froze, staring at him in confusion.

Xie Yizhao cleared his throat and explained, “I bought this land years ago. You once said you wanted your own hot spring resort. Well, here it is.”

Lu Xi pulled away from his embrace, thinking she must have misheard.

A hot spring resort… just for her?

She vaguely remembered mentioning it before…

Lu Xi loved soaking in hot springs but hated crowded places. She had a bit of a cleanliness obsession. Whenever she stayed at a hotel or a resort, she never used the bathtub, no matter how luxurious the place was. The same went for swimming pools.

She had once casually mentioned wanting a hotel that only served her, or at least a private hot spring just for her use.

She had mentioned it.

But did this man have to be so outrageously extravagant, gifting her an entire brand-new hot spring resort?

Lu Xi was completely stunned.

Xie Yizhao paused briefly before clarifying, “Actually, calling it a resort isn’t quite right. After all, it only serves you. Of course, I also had different-sized hot spring pools set up, so you can bring your friends along if you like.”

She nodded, her expression slightly dazed.

Xie Yizhao found her reaction adorable. He reached out to pinch her cheek and smiled. “So, can I come along in the future, CEO Lu?”

Lu Xi’s heart fluttered at his teasing. She tried hard to suppress her excitement, but the corners of her lips still lifted.

She replied with deliberate nonchalance, “Hmm… we’ll see. Depends on how you behave.”

After saying that, she watched his reaction with a playful smile, only to catch a flicker of dark emotion in his eyes.

Then, right in front of her, he slowly knelt on one knee.

Lu Xi : ?

“You… what are you doing?” she asked, a little flustered.

Xie Yizhao pulled out a ring he had long prepared.

Even now, he still felt nervous. But just a moment ago, when Lu Xi had thrown herself into his arms, he had felt an overwhelming sense of belonging. In that instant, he was certain, there would never be a better time than now.

Because he didn’t want to wait even a second longer.

He opened the ring box. Inside was a flawless pink diamond ring, one that looked stunningly familiar to Lu Xi.

Xie Yizhao gazed at her, his eyes filled with deep, complex emotions.

His voice wavered slightly with emotion as he spoke. “Xiao Xi, I’ve always owed you a proper proposal. I’ve never actually asked you… if you truly want to marry me.”

Lu Xi froze. Her mind spun, her fingertips tingling slightly.

Everything that had happened today suddenly clicked into place. The way Xie Heng had shown up at her office, all the odd little actions throughout the day, leading up to this very moment.

So this was the surprise Xie Yizhao had planned?

Lu Xi had a habit. When she felt like crying, she would instinctively hold back her tears. She blinked rapidly and asked, “And if I say no? What will you do then?”

Xie Yizhao answered without hesitation, “I’ll ask again next time.”

“And if I still say no?”

“Then the time after that.” His response was firm, as if he had thought it through countless times.

Lu Xi’s eyes shimmered with unshed tears. Then, she let out a soft chuckle.

That was such a typical Xie Yizhao answer.

But the moment she smiled, the tears she had been holding back finally spilled over.

How strange…

Why did this man always have to make her cry?

Lu Xi pouted and urged him, “Get up already.”

“I won’t. You haven’t said yes or no yet, so I’m not moving.” For once, Xie Yizhao was being stubborn, his intense gaze fixed on her.

Lu Xi teased, “You’re already a father, and you’re still acting like a child?”

Even as she said it, she smiled. Then, with bright, tear-filled eyes, she stretched out her hand like a proud little peacock. “Put it on for me. If I like it, I’ll say yes.”

Xie Yizhao laughed softly. “Yes, Wifey.”

He carefully picked up the ring and slipped it onto her finger.

The ring was breathtaking.

The perfect cut and brilliant fire of the pink diamond shimmered even in the dim lighting. Lu Xi lifted her hand and admired it for a few seconds, feeling a little vain.

This was a ring that made her heart race.

It was far more meaningful than the one that had once adorned her ring finger before she traveled through time. That one had long since disappeared.

And the man kneeling before her, this handsome, devoted man, stirred her heart even more.

He had waited for her, alone, all these years.

Lu Xi wiped the corners of her eyes. “Alright, I’ve said yes. Now get up.”

Xie Yizhao murmured, “My leg’s numb. Help me up.”

Lu Xi : … She didn’t believe him for a second. This old fox was definitely up to something.

She knew it was a trap. But faced with his pleading gaze, she still couldn’t bring herself to refuse him. She reached out and gently pulled him up.

And sure enough, the moment he got to his feet, he suddenly pulled her into his arms. Before she could react, he tightened his grip and stepped backward until her back pressed against a fence. She let out a startled gasp.

“It’s going to fall over!” she clung to him in panic.

Xie Yizhao reassured her, “No, it’s reinforced.”

As he spoke, his gaze lingered on her face before he lowered his head and placed a tender kiss—starting from her eyelids, down to the bridge of her nose, and finally landing on her lips.

Tonight felt different from any other night.

Lu Xi’s heart pounded wildly, and she could hear his heartbeat, syncing with hers.

After a long moment, breathless, she pushed him away.

Leaning against his shoulder, she mumbled, “Didn’t you say there’s a hot spring? CEO Xie, hurry up and take me there.”

Xie Yizhao let out a low chuckle, utterly content. He whispered, “So, CEO Lu, are you going home tonight?”

Lu Xi’s lips curled up mischievously. “Nope. Let the little cub hold down the fort on his own.”

---

“Today’s date is so special.” Watching Xie Heng’s figure walk away, Lu Xi finally sighed softly to Xie Yizhao.

Xie Yizhao raised an eyebrow, deliberately playing dumb. “Really? I think it’s just okay.”

Lu Xi glanced around. Well, at the moment, everything related to Xie Yizhao seemed fine. “I’m talking about Xiao Heng. Don’t you think the arrangements were a bit over the top?”

She handed him the bouquet in her arms and smiled. “Why did you even have him bring me flowers?”

Xie Yizhao admitted generously, “I did ask him to pick you up, but the flowers weren’t my idea.” He paused, then chuckled. “I also didn’t ask you to hold onto him.”

Lu Xi’s eyes widened slightly in surprise. After a few seconds, she burst out laughing.

So, this was actually their son’s own idea?

A bit suspicious, a bit silly, but a child who understands the importance of rituals is still adorable.

Xie Yizhao noticed Lu Xi’s expression softening with affection. He cleared his throat, took the bouquet from her, and hooked his finger around hers. “Forget about him. Let’s go inside.”

Lu Xi suddenly felt a little sorry for Xie Heng.

He was like his Dad’s little tool for dates—used and then promptly discarded.

Even though she felt bad for him as his Mom, she was also more curious about the rest of the date. For now, she had no time to worry about him.

In front of her was a beautiful, fan-shaped archway. Stepping inside felt like entering a mysterious palace.

The restaurant inside was elegant and meticulously designed, with a vintage aesthetic. Everything—from the floor tiles to the curtains, tables, chairs, and floor lamps—was beautifully coordinated.

The double-opening windows with arched accents were stunning. Lu Xi couldn’t resist walking over, pushing one open, and gazing out at the vast night sky, where a few faint stars could be seen.

It was rare to see stars in the city; only in the outskirts like this could you occasionally catch a glimpse.

“This place is gorgeous. Which resort is this?” Lu Xi blinked at him playfully. “Why haven’t you brought me here before?”

Xie Yizhao replied, “It was just built recently. Today is its first day in operation.”

Lu Xi raised an eyebrow, her curiosity growing.

Thinking about the Ferris wheel at the amusement park last time, she asked, “So, is this another one of your friends’ properties that you borrowed for our date?”

Tsk, her husband really had connections.

Xie Yizhao just smiled slightly, walked to the table, pulled out a chair, and looked at her with gentle attentiveness. “Sit down first. Let’s eat, then we’ll talk.”

To be honest, Lu Xi was really hungry. It was already almost seven o’clock.

She happily sat down, waiting for the food.

As the waitstaff served the dishes, she took the opportunity to observe the restaurant. This floor was about 200 square meters, yet there was only one table by the window. If this was a private dining room, it seemed far too large—such a waste of space.

But she didn’t dwell on it.

Xie Yizhao had said the place just opened. He probably borrowed it for their date, which was why there was only one table.

The food was delicious, and Lu Xi enjoyed every dish.

She wasn’t particularly picky about dates.

Isn’t there a saying? It’s not about what you eat, but who you eat with. She loved going on dates with Xie Yizhao because she genuinely liked him. He was considerate, respectful, and attentive without being overbearing. He took her to eat good food, and his face was certainly a pleasure to look at.

Ahem… calling him ‘a feast for the eyes’ wouldn’t be an exaggeration.

His taste in date locations was impeccable.

Enjoying the meal while occasionally glancing at the tranquil nightscape outside the window, it was truly refreshing.

“This place is really beautiful. Thank you for bringing me here.” Lu Xi smiled sweetly as she took a bite of dessert, her almond-shaped eyes curving in delight.

Xie Yizhao sipped his white wine, his tone calm. “As long as you like it. In the future, CEO Lu can bring me here often, too.”

Lu Xi : ?

Was he implying she should treat him next time?

Ha, well, that wasn’t a problem. Since he even called her ‘CEO Lu,’ it would be petty of her to refuse.

So she agreed cheerfully. “No problem! As long as CEO Xie is free, I’ll treat you to good food, drinks, and fun.”

Xie Yizhao looked at her and smiled.

Lu Xi suddenly thought of something and smirked mischievously. “CEO Xie, you’ve gotten so romantic lately. You weren’t like this before. Whose influence is this?”

She gave him a smug look, lifting her chin proudly.

Xie Yizhao chuckled, then said sincerely, “You. It’s all thanks to our CEO Lu’s guidance.”

Lu Xi didn’t bother being modest. “Well said! Mutual growth.”

He wasn’t wrong.

Back when Xie Yizhao was younger, he wasn’t like this.

His mindset back then was simple: if a problem could be solved with money, he wouldn’t waste time on it. After they got married, they occasionally went on dates, but he would have his assistant book expensive restaurants or buy extravagant jewelry. Even when dining with her, he always had a strict schedule, leaving the moment time was up.

He never used to put this much effort into a date.

Now, he arrived before her, wasn’t in a hurry, and took his time dining, chatting, and enjoying the scenery with her.

That was unimaginable before.

So, wasn’t it her influence? Clearly, men need training to behave well.

When she was about seventy percent full, Lu Xi reluctantly set down her dessert and looked at him expectantly. “What’s next?”

She was sure he had more planned.

Xie Yizhao stood up and extended his hand toward her. “Come, let me show you around.”

Lu Xi nodded, placed her hand in his, and let him lead her toward the elevator.

She just realized, this building has an elevator?

Then why did Xie Heng insist on taking the stairs with her earlier?

Was it just for the sake of atmosphere…?

Lu Xi had a vague feeling that something was off.

It was nice that Xie Yizhao had put so much thought into their date, but Xie Heng’s actions today felt more like he was deliberately creating some kind of mood.

Just as she was lost in thought, she suddenly felt a warm touch on her earlobe. It was Xie Yizhao, lightly brushing against her earring.

“Your earrings look beautiful.”

His touch was gentle, as if afraid that the slight roughness of his fingers might scratch her delicate skin. Lu Xi felt ticklish and couldn’t help but smile as she dodged slightly. “Of course. You gave them to me, how could they not look good?”

The elevator doors slowly opened.

Xie Yizhao said softly, “I meant, they look beautiful on you.”

Lu Xi raised an eyebrow and smiled. She couldn’t help but touch the cool ruby of her earring, feeling secretly delighted.

She never liked smooth-talking men, the kind who flattered her endlessly just to please her, treating her like some kind of goddess. Those words, no matter how well-spoken, always felt insincere.

But somehow, when Xie Yizhao said things like that, she found herself enjoying it. Every word he spoke seemed to land precisely on her heart, just like his gentle touch on her ear—soft, sincere, making her both flustered and moved.

Maybe some people just had that kind of charm.

They walked into the courtyard.

Following a quiet and beautiful path, they headed toward the garden.

As they walked, Lu Xi took in her surroundings.

Something felt off.

“Why is it just the two of us here? Isn’t today the opening day? Why aren’t there any other guests or even a single staff member?” she asked curiously.

Xie Yizhao replied, “I didn’t want anyone disturbing us, so they’re not accepting guests today. As for the staff… do you really need anyone else when you have me as your personal guide?”

Lu Xi blinked. “Well, I guess that’s enough. But where exactly are you taking me?”

He glanced at her, momentarily captivated by the light shimmering in her eyes. After a few seconds, he said in a low voice, “There’s a garden maze here. It’s quite unique. Want to check it out?”

The word ‘maze’ instantly made Lu Xi’s eyes light up. She nodded eagerly and even bounced on her toes. “Yes!”

She loved mazes—the thrill of navigating through winding paths to find the exit, the suspense, the anticipation, the surprise.

Besides, well-designed plant mazes made for great photo backdrops. They were perfect for capturing aesthetic shots.

Xie Yizhao chuckled, his deep laughter vibrating through his chest as he watched her excitement, like a lively little deer.

She had expected a long walk, but surprisingly, the maze wasn’t far.

Of course, the journey itself was beautiful. In addition to the romantic lighting, the path was lined with trees—some she recognized, some she didn’t.

Each plant had a small sign next to it, labeling its species. Xie Yizhao even took the time to introduce them to her.

“The osmanthus and apricot trees here were transplanted from elsewhere. Closer to the maze, there are cherry blossoms and crabapples. You should come back when they bloom.”

Lu Xi listened attentively.

She wasn’t very knowledgeable about plants, especially now when the trees were mostly bare, with only branches and leaves. Without flowers, she couldn’t identify them at all.

But… since when did Xie Yizhao know so much about botany?

“Are you one of the investors here?” she asked.

Xie Yizhao only smiled, refusing to answer.

Seeing that he was deliberately keeping secrets, Lu Xi poked his waist. “Fine, if you won’t say, I won’t ask. But can I make a suggestion?”

“Madam, I’m all ears.”

Lu Xi looped her arm through his and mused, “Since there are already so many plants, why not add some fruit-bearing ones? Maybe a strawberry patch?”

Xie Yizhao paused briefly before chuckling. “Are you suggesting we turn this into a countryside farm?”

“Haha! Why not? A blend of elegance and rustic charm, it could work!” Of course, that was assuming he was an investor. Judging by his influence, he likely wasn’t just any investor, perhaps even a partner.

Xie Yizhao didn’t seem opposed to the idea. He even added, “Why stop at strawberries? We could plant some grapes too. I remember you like those.”

Lu Xi laughed and leaned against him.

If they really did that, this place would be a true mix of styles. She didn’t mind, but what about the guests?

A high-end, vintage-style resort with an aesthetic plant maze… and then a fruit farm on the side? Wouldn’t that scare off customers?

Would it be too much of a clash, neither fully elegant nor fully rustic? How would they even market such a concept?

She voiced her concerns to Xie Yizhao.

But he simply smiled and gazed down at her. “Well, well, our Xiao Xi is turning into quite the businesswoman, already thinking about marketing strategies.”

Was he teasing her?

Lu Xi balled up her fists and playfully punched him. “Hey, be serious!”

Xie Yizhao let her soft fists land a few times before he finally stopped smiling and replied earnestly, “It’s fine. If people don’t like it, we just won’t take their money.”

“…”

Wow.

That was bold.

Some people really could afford to turn down business.

They soon arrived at the entrance of the maze, and Lu Xi’s attention instantly shifted.

The hedge walls were over two meters high, lush and dense. Once inside, when she looked up, all she could see was the night sky above.

Though they had only just entered, her heart was already racing with excitement. This was going to be fun.

---

The winter break ended quickly.

With the new semester starting, Xie Heng’s days of sleeping in indulgently came to an end.

He had worked at Lu Xi’s studio until the very last day and successfully received his paycheck.

A total of 3,600 yuan.

Holding the money, Xie Heng was quite happy, but he deliberately complained, “So little. It’s not even as much as my monthly allowance.”

Without even looking at him, Lu Xi said, “Wait until summer break. Go to your Dad’s place. He has money, you can milk him for it.”

Xie Heng thought about it and figured that wasn’t a bad idea.

His Dad’s company was a big corporation, probably with a very different atmosphere from here. He was curious to experience a different working environment.

But openly talking about switching jobs in front of his current boss was a major workplace taboo. Xie Heng straightened his back and dutifully pledged his loyalty, “I’m not going anywhere. I’ll come back to help you next time too.”

Lu Xi merely let out a sarcastic laugh. This kid couldn’t hide anything on his face. She saw right through him but didn’t call him out.

“Alright, take your money and go home. Get ready for school tomorrow.” Lu Xi waved him away.

Being dismissed, Xie Heng wasn’t upset at all. Instead, he grinned and eagerly asked, “Boss Lu, would you like some coffee? I’ll make you a cup.”

By now, he was a skilled coffee maker. No one in the office was more familiar with that coffee machine than him.

Ever since he started working there, Lu Xi had stopped ordering takeaway coffee. Her daily latte was always prepared by Xie Heng.

Lu Xi nodded.

Xie Heng quickly made her a latte and attentively placed it on the heating coaster he had bought.

After Lu Xi took a sip, Xie Heng asked, “Does it taste good?”

Lu Xi looked at him. “Are you trying to ask me for money?”

Xie Heng choked a little, feeling wronged. Did he really seem that money-hungry?

“No, I just… want to ask you something.” Xie Heng pulled out his phone and showed Lu Xi two pictures of diamond rings. “With your taste, which one looks better?”

Lu Xi glanced at them briefly. “The one on the left.”

Xie Heng was surprised. “No way. The left one is only 8 carats, but the right one is 13 carats.”

Lu Xi was speechless. This clueless straight guy, how had he worked under her for so long without improving his aesthetic sense even a little?

She shook her head helplessly. “Who told you that a bigger diamond is always more beautiful? First of all, anything too big looks gaudy. Besides, the one on the right has worse clarity and brilliance than the one on the left. The left one is definitely more expensive.”

So that’s how it was…

Xie Heng realized he had given his Dad bad advice. He quickly stepped out of the office and sent a message to Xie Yizhao.

[Dad, I checked for you. Ms. Lu likes the ring you chose. No need to switch to a bigger one.]

At that moment, Xie Yizhao was in an important meeting.

His phone, placed on the table in front of him, vibrated once. He glanced at the message and was instantly at a loss for words.

A proposal was meant to be a surprise, yet this kid had gone ahead and spoiled it for him. Now how was he supposed to keep any element of surprise?

If it weren’t for the fact that Lu Xi liked the ring, he would have had to pick another one.

But she did like it…

For a moment, Xie Yizhao was conflicted, trying to balance between preserving the surprise and making sure his wife was happy.

Meanwhile, the people in the meeting noticed that their boss’s expression had suddenly turned serious.

A project team leader, who had just started presenting a proposal for a newly acquired piece of land, hesitated mid-sentence, suddenly unsure if he should continue.

Everyone carefully observed Xie Yizhao’s face, exchanging nervous glances.

Did the boss not like their proposal?

---

Xie Heng had no idea that before even starting work at his Dad’s company, he had already caused a minor crisis in the meeting room.

The first day of school was a bright and sunny day. He wasn’t the earliest to arrive, but he wasn’t late either.

When he got there, he saw Xu Jiaming was already in his seat, organizing his winter break homework.

Xie Heng nodded at him in greeting.

As for what happened with Xu Jiaming’s situation, Xie Heng had only heard a few casual remarks from him while they were playing basketball.

Xu Jiaming’s Mom had somehow obtained some incriminating evidence against that man, causing him a lot of trouble. Now, he had fled to a small foreign country, both to escape debt and to avoid enemies. It seemed he wouldn’t be able to come back and cause trouble for a long time.

“And besides, he has no reason to bother me anymore. He can’t expect me to support him in his old age,” Xu Jiaming said.

His tone was light, as if he were talking about a complete stranger.

Xie Heng didn’t fully understand, but he got the main point. Xu Jiaming’s crisis was resolved, and Xu Jiaming didn’t have to transfer schools. That was a good thing.

Xie Heng walked over to Xu Jiaming’s desk, cleared his throat, and asked, “You said you used to train at a martial arts school?”

“Yeah.”

Xie Heng hesitated. “Do you think I’m too old to start now?”

Xu Jiaming gave him a once-over, then chuckled. “With your fighting skills, do you really need more training?” Just how badly did he want to beat people up?

“Of course I do. I want to be more professional, I need to know how to control my strength. I don’t want to get hurt, and I don’t want to hurt others too badly either,” Xie Heng said seriously.

Xu Jiaming saw his determination and realized he hadn’t given up on his goal.

Xu Jiaming was a little surprised.

He had thought that Xie Heng’s ambition to become a police officer was just a passing whim. But seeing him still so persistent, he took it more seriously.

He nodded lightly. “Then you should train at a proper martial arts school. You’ll improve a lot more than just swinging wildly.”

Xie Heng immediately thought of the martial arts hall he had visited before.

What was it called…? Gao Yi Martial Arts Hall.

He had looked it up online. The school had good ratings, accepted students, and the tuition wasn’t too expensive.

Anyway, his personal funds were in good shape. Even though he couldn’t touch that one million yet, his allowance was more than enough to cover tuition.

It was just that his Dad seemed to have a share in that store too. That day, the people in the hall even called him ‘Senior Brother.’

If he went there, his dad would definitely find out soon.

Xie Heng wasn’t planning to hide it from his Dad, though. He just wanted to find a chance to mention it first. Who knows? Maybe he could even get a discount or something…

---

After her son started school, Lu Xi felt like the house had suddenly become much quieter.

For the first few days, she wasn’t used to it. More than once, after waking up, still groggy, she would ask the butler during breakfast why Xie Heng hadn’t come downstairs yet and if he still wanted to go to work with her today.

The butler couldn’t help but laugh at her confusion.

“Young Master has gone to school. Madam, you’re not used to it yet, are you?”

Lu Xi felt a little embarrassed by his laughter.

It was strange. Normally, this brat was always hanging around in front of her, occasionally saying things that annoyed her. Sometimes, he could be a bit of a nuisance.

But now that he wasn’t around, Lu Xi actually felt unaccustomed to it.

Going to work, coming home, there was only her in the backseat of the car. No one sitting next to her, chattering about basketball players she didn’t know or care about. No one sharing an earphone with her, introducing her to his latest favorite songs.

At the office, she couldn’t drink the special ‘little cub version’ latte that her brat used to make for her. Sometimes, when she glanced at the heating coaster on her desk, she would suddenly feel a pang of melancholy.

Her phone wallpaper was the picture of baby Xie Heng sucking on a pacifier. Every time she saw it, she felt even more emotional.

The brat had grown up now. He couldn’t be like a little kid anymore, following her around like a tiny sidekick.

She couldn’t help but feel a bit regretful for missing out on Xie Heng’s early childhood.

Xiao Heng must have been super adorable back then—a little crybaby, maybe even clinging to the hem of her clothes, calling her ‘Mommy’ in a soft voice. Just thinking about it was enough to make her heart melt.

At night, Lu Xi couldn’t help but talk to Xie Yizhao about it. She would pester him to tell her stories about Xie Heng’s childhood.

As long as she asked, Xie Yizhao would tell her.

Though most of his stories were about how Xie Heng had been a mischievous troublemaker, always up to some kind of mischief, Lu Xi still listened with great interest.

---

On Sunday morning, Xie Heng didn’t have school, so he and Lu Xi met at the breakfast table.

While they were eating, Xie Heng noticed that Lu Xi kept staring at him.

Her gaze made him a little uneasy.

If this were school, and someone stared at him like that, he’d assume they were trying to pick a fight. But since it was his own Mom, he retracted his long legs under the table, touched his face uneasily, and started wondering if he had done something wrong to upset her recently.

Xie Heng : “Why are you looking at me like that?”

Lu Xi pressed her lips into a smile. “Nothing, I just suddenly think you look cute.”

C-cute?

Is that a word to describe a guy?

Xie Heng felt slightly embarrassed. He shifted uncomfortably in his seat, then dramatically sighed, “I get it now. It must be because I haven’t been home recently. You miss me too much.”

Lu Xi frowned.

See? See? When this brat keeps his mouth shut, he looks like a dashing young man. But the moment he speaks, she can’t help but want to smack him.

One of the top ten unsolved mysteries of the Xie family.

She couldn’t hold back and rolled her eyes at him. “I don’t miss you. I miss the coffee you make, you little narcissist.”

Xie Heng pouted. Yeah, right.

The butler had already told him that during his first few days of school, Ms. Lu had been so out of it that she almost called him to go to work with her. Clearly, she missed him, she just wouldn’t admit it.

The next day, Lu Xi received a coffee made by Xie Heng himself.

When she got up and went downstairs, she caught the scent of coffee in the dining room and was momentarily surprised.

She usually didn’t drink coffee at home in the morning. She would order one after getting to the studio. The house staff wouldn’t have made coffee for her without asking.

Then she walked over and saw a coffee cup placed on a cup warmer, with a sticky note attached to it. Her eyes lit up with delight.

It was Xie Heng’s handwriting.

[Even though I can’t go to work with you, I promise that as long as I’m home, I’ll make you coffee.
—From a handsome, adorable, and selfless high schooler who does good deeds without leaving his name.]

Lu Xi picked up the coffee cup, blinking rapidly, overwhelmed with emotion.

Oh no, what should she do? Her little brat had been acting so sweet lately!

She could feel that her maternal instincts had suddenly surged, a change that felt both unfamiliar and a little overwhelming. Of course, she wouldn’t let herself become the kind of parent who revolves entirely around her child. She and Xie Yizhao still had their own lives to live.

But…

This past month, Xie Yizhao had been particularly busy.

Busier than before, at least twice as busy.

Even when he wasn’t traveling for work, he often got home very late. Lu Xi understood, of course. It was a new year, and even her small studio was crazy busy. How much more so for someone managing an entire corporation?

That night, after showering, Lu Xi sat at her vanity, carefully applying her skincare routine.

Xie Yizhao grabbed some clothes and was about to head into the bathroom.

But before going in, he suddenly paused at the door and asked gently, “Are you free next Sunday night?”

Lu Xi was slightly taken aback, then immediately nodded.

She smiled teasingly. “Is CEO Xie applying in advance to go on a date with me?”

Xie Yizhao responded with a touch of humor, “CEO Lu will find out then.”

Lu Xi was looking forward to this little break in his busy schedule.

She was also a bit curious.

Usually, when planning dates, Xie Yizhao would give her a precise time—sometimes down to the minute—and let her know the details: what they were going to do, and whether she was okay with the plan.

But this time, he only said ‘Sunday night.’

Lu Xi guessed he was probably planning another surprise, just like the Ferris wheel or the auction on last Christmas Eve.

She didn’t make wild guesses. She went about her work as usual for the next week, waiting patiently for him to surprise her.

Sunday night arrived quickly.

Lu Xi was in her studio. The other employees had the day off, but she had to interview a womenswear designer. After the interview, she received a message from Xie Yizhao, telling her to wait for him in her office.

[Okay.]

She waited for Xie Yizhao to pick her up for dinner.

Around six o’clock, someone knocked on her office door. When she looked up, it wasn’t Xie Yizhao who walked in.

“Xiao Heng?” Lu Xi blinked at him.

Xie Heng stood at the door, coughed lightly, and awkwardly took out a bouquet of flowers from behind his back. “I’m here to take you to dinner.”

Lu Xi : ?

What was going on?

She couldn’t help but laugh. “Come on, don’t mess around. Give me the flowers and be on your way. I have a date with your Dad. If you play third wheel, you might get beaten up.”

Xie Heng walked over, pulled Lu Xi up, grabbed her handbag, and firmly shoved the flowers into her arms. Then, half-pushing, half-pulling, he led her out of the office.

“Just come with me first. I’ll explain on the way.”

Lu Xi was completely baffled.

Holding the flowers, she let Xie Heng lead her to the car. She frowned and asked, “Are you kidnapping your own <om?”

Xie Heng, as if afraid she’d pinch his face, pressed himself against the car door. “I wouldn’t dare. Don’t be mad, I was forced into this.”

Lu Xi was both amused and exasperated.

She had a guess. This was probably related to whatever ‘surprise’ Xie Yizhao had prepared. But… this felt more like a shock than a surprise.

“Fine, let’s go.” Lu Xi sniffed the flowers casually.

She was curious to see what this father-and-son duo was up to.

The farther they drove, the more they veered from the city center.

Lu Xi had never been here before. It looked like the outskirts.

About forty minutes later, the car came to a stop.

Lu Xi glanced outside. It appeared to be a villa-style resort. At night, the lawn at the entrance was lit with warm yellow lights, making it look quite beautiful.

Xie Heng got out first, then walked around to open the door for Lu Xi.

She gave him a curious look.

This brat, when did he become such a gentleman?

Lu Xi pressed her lips together, said nothing, and stepped out. She was dying of curiosity but didn’t let it show. She was eager to see what Xie Yizhao had planned.

“Hold onto my arm,” Xie Heng suddenly murmured.

Lu Xi raised an eyebrow.

Xie Heng was clearly embarrassed, his face slightly flushed. But he knew tonight was an important night for both Ms. Lu and his dad. He had to step up and see this through.

So he took Lu Xi’s hand and forced her to hold onto him.

Lu Xi : …

No doubt about it. The son of a domineering CEO was bound to be just as domineering.

Since when did things work like this?

Xie Heng led her inside the villa.

Strangely, there was no one at the entrance, and as they walked further in, they didn’t see any other guests or staff either.

However, the scenery was serene, and the night air was fresh. Walking through the courtyard felt almost tranquil.

Xie Heng remained silent the entire way.

Lu Xi sensed that he was nervous about something.

Three minutes later, Xie Heng brought her in front of a three-story building.

Lu Xi looked up. All she could see were lush plants climbing the staircase and the glow of dim lights.

She still didn’t ask any questions.

She simply followed Xie Heng, holding onto his arm, as they ascended the elegant white staircase.

The stairs weren’t tall, but they walked very, very slowly.

But Lu Xi was already sensing something.

She felt Xie Heng pause his steps.

At that moment, she lifted her head, and sure enough, she saw Xie Yizhao standing at the top of the stairs. His gaze, deep and gentle like the night itself, was filled with warmth.

Xie Heng quickened his pace and stopped in front of his Dad. “Alright, I’ve brought Ms. Lu to you.”

Lu Xi glanced at Xie Heng.

Then she smiled and turned to Xie Yizhao.

She slipped her hand out of Xie Heng’s, and seamlessly, Xie Yizhao took her hand in his, pulling her to his side. With a meaningful look, he said, “I’ve been waiting for you.”

Watching his Dad and Lu Xi exchange glances, Xie Heng suddenly felt like the biggest third wheel in the entire estate.

He quickly said, “Dad, good luck. It’s all on you now.”

Then, as an afterthought, he turned to Lu Xi. “Don’t feel pressured. If you want to say yes, say yes. If you don’t, just call me, I’ll come rescue you right away.”

Lu Xi : “What?”

Xie Yizhao shot him a warning look. “Scram.”

---

At that moment, Xu Jiaming suddenly cleared his throat and said, “By the way, I’m not going abroad anymore.”

Xie Heng’s eyes lit up, and Lu Xi looked at him happily. “That’s great! You’ll still be able to study with our Xiao Heng.”

Xu Jiaming smiled faintly and nodded.

With everything settled, Xie Heng felt at ease.

The two families nodded in farewell, said their goodbyes, and then walked off in opposite directions.

Yang Yihan couldn’t help but look back, and Xu Jiaming also followed her gaze.

They walked leisurely along the road, while Lu Xi held onto Xie Yizhao’s arm. Framed by the height of the two men, she looked especially delicate and petite.

When they reached a tree, Xie Heng raised his hand to touch a branch.

A few leaves fluttered down, one landing on Lu Xi’s shoulder. Xie Yizhao reached out and gently picked it off for her.

The way he looked at Lu Xi carried an indescribable tenderness.

Lu Xi smiled at him and held out her hand. Understanding her intent, the man placed the leaf in her palm.

Lu Xi huffed lightly and, without hesitation, stuffed the leaf into Xie Heng’s hoodie. “That’s what you get for being so restless.”

Xie Heng was speechless. He reached up to pull at his hood, but a relaxed smile spread across his face.

The family of three gradually walked away.

Yang Yihan suddenly felt a pang of bitterness in her heart. She couldn’t help but feel envious of Lu Xi.

She was also a little jealous of Xie Heng, for having such a strong and reliable father.

She withdrew her gaze and turned to Xu Jiaming, giving him a gentle smile. “I’ve thought it through. This time, I’ll listen to you. If you want to stay, then you’ll continue studying at Mingli. I’ll take care of everything else.”

For Xu Jiaming, and for herself, she wouldn’t soften toward her ex-husband this time.

Since that man had been heartless, there was no need for her to consider his feelings anymore.

Xu Jiaming’s expression shifted slightly. He pressed his lips together and nodded at her. “Thank you, Mom.”

A sense of relief settled over him.

Perhaps his relationship with his Mom would never be like Xie Heng’s with CEO Lu, but this was good enough. He would always consider Yang Yihan his real mother.

However, he had long suspected that Lu Xi might not be just Xie Heng’s stepmother. She might actually be…

It was only a hunch, but he didn’t want to verify it. It didn’t matter anyway.

Everyone had their secrets, and Lu Xi’s secrets weren’t his to uncover. They belonged to their family.

Still, the first time they met, he had really thought she was Xie Heng’s older sister.

---

The Xie family strolled for a while before passing by a badminton court. Lu Xi suggested they go in for some exercise.

Standing at the entrance, Xie Heng watched as his Dad and Ms. Lu exchanged glances full of affection all the way.

He suddenly felt like a third wheel.

And he couldn’t help but reflect: Was he being a lightbulb again?

It seemed like he was always unknowingly making mistakes.

Like earlier at dinner—when Ms. Lu had asked his Dad to accompany her on a walk, why had he been so clueless and volunteered to join them?

Was playing video games not fun enough? Was basketball not exciting enough?

At the very least, he could’ve just laid down and daydreamed!

He didn’t even know why, but while he used to simply enjoy following Lu Xi around, now he found himself enjoying his Dad’s company too.

Even if he was constantly subjected to their public displays of affection, he still felt happy just trailing behind them in silence.

“…Forget it. I’ll sit this one out. You two go ahead and play,” Xie Heng finally had a moment of self-awareness and decided to give his Dad and Ms. Lu some quality time together.

Lu Xi squinted at him. “Oh? Is our little basketball prince bad at badminton?”

“…” Xie Heng actually wasn’t good at it. But could he admit that? Could he show weakness in front of his Mom?

He let out a confident chuckle, shoved his hands into his pockets, and arrogantly tilted his chin up before striding into the court.

Since there were only three of them, they took turns playing.

This was just a casual family game—not a real competition—so they didn’t keep score or follow strict rules. As long as the shuttlecock went over the net, it was fine.

Xie Heng thought it was easy, just a simple game of hitting the shuttlecock back and forth.

For Lu Xi, badminton was the only sport she could handle.

She played often with the other ladies in the villa community. Compared to them, she was actually one of the better players.

Some even jokingly asked if she had played professionally, which secretly delighted her, even though she was just an amateur.

At first, Xie Heng sat on the sidelines watching.

But after observing his Dad and Ms. Lu rally back and forth for dozens of rounds, he fell silent.

He might not have played badminton before, but he understood what was happening.

He remembered that his Dad had won an amateur badminton championship once. Meanwhile, Ms. Lu was… very much an amateur.

And yet, she was dominating.

Xie Heng knew firsthand how strong his Dad was. But for some reason, when playing against Ms. Lu, his Dad’s shots were weak, and he kept missing the shuttlecock.

Then, suddenly, the realization hit him.

His Dad wasn’t playing badminton.

He was playing the game of relationships.

It was a more advanced way of showing affection.

Xie Heng : Utterly disgusted.

Once Xie Yizhao stepped aside, making way for him, Xie Heng couldn’t help but call him out in the spirit of sportsmanship.

“Dad, you’re throwing the game harder than the entire badminton court. Do you take Ms. Lu for a fool?”

Xie Yizhao’s brow twitched. He shot a glance at his tactless son and raised a hand, ready to smack him.

But before he could, Lu Xi interrupted, clearly displeased. “What’s wrong with that? I like that your Dad lets me win. What do you know? You’ve been single since birth.”

She even waved her racket at him in annoyance, looking quite fierce.

Xie Yizhao’s lips curled up slightly, his mood suddenly lifted.

Xie Heng : “…”

So, his Dad was enjoying throwing the game, Ms. Lu was pleased with being humored, and the fool in this scenario turned out to be him?

Well, he only sulked for a few seconds.

He quickly figured it out.

If he had to be the fool, so be it. Eating dog food wasn’t a big deal. Their family was doing great, and he hoped it would never change.

He used to have friends who envied him, and back then, he would scoff.

He knew that people envied him only because he had a wealthy father and a privileged life.

But yesterday, when Xu Jiaming said he envied him, Xie Heng suddenly felt a bit smug.

Now, with Ms. Lu and Mr. Xie around, compared to so many of his classmates from unhappy families, he really was lucky.

By the time the three of them returned home, it was almost nine o’clock.

After all that exercise, Lu Xi felt drained and asked for a late-night snack, planning to eat with Xie Heng.

But this time, Xie Heng did something unusual. This big eater actually turned down the food and instead followed Xie Yizhao upstairs.

Xie Yizhao glanced at him but said nothing.

He was used to his son’s occasional weird behavior, assuming the boy wanted a favor again.

So he remained calm, waiting for his son to speak first.

Father and son walked in silence, one ahead of the other. It wasn’t until they reached the second floor that Xie Heng finally spoke.

“Dad.”

Xie Yizhao looked at him, raising an eyebrow. “Something wrong?”

Xie Heng pursed his lips, his expression unusually serious. “Not really. I just wanted to remind you of something.”

“Go on.”

Xie Yizhao’s gaze darkened slightly. His hands rested at his sides, ready to smack his son at any moment.

By now, he understood his kid too well. Whenever Xie Heng opened his mouth, it was rarely anything pleasant. Most likely, it would just make him mad.

Xie Heng was aware of this too.

Knowing that what he was about to say wasn’t going to sit well, he deliberately took a step back, keeping a safe distance from his Dad.

“You might not like hearing this, but bear with me,” he said, a bit nervous but determined. “You better treat Ms. Lu well and make sure you stay together forever. Otherwise… I’ll definitely side with her.”

He had no interest in becoming the child of a divorced household.

Xie Yizhao was momentarily stunned.

Seeing his Dad’s brows knit into a serious frown, Xie Heng’s internal alarm went off, and he immediately turned to escape.

But Xie Yizhao grabbed him by the hood of his sweatshirt.

Xie Heng : “…”

Why was everyone messing with his hood today?

Seeing his son’s guilty expression, Xie Yizhao was slightly annoyed but couldn’t help chuckling.

He didn’t hit his son, just curled his fingers and knocked his son lightly on the head twice. “Come with me.”

He led the way to his study.

Xie Heng was confused but followed, relieved that his Dad didn’t seem to be reaching for a belt.

Inside the study, there was a safe.

Xie Yizhao unlocked it and took out a small jewelry box, handing it to Xie Heng. “Open it.”

Xie Heng was baffled.

Still, he did as he was told. Inside was a ring—a pink diamond, sparkling brilliantly.

Even though Xie Heng didn’t know much about diamonds, he could tell this ring was outrageously expensive, probably over ten carats. Even as a straight guy, he thought it was gorgeous.

“It’s beautiful,” he said. “What about it?”

Xie Yizhao leaned against the desk, arms crossed, and said calmly, “I’m planning to propose to your Mom soon. You know her well, do you think she’ll like this ring?”

Xie Heng’s expression turned strange. “Propose?”

Xie Yizhao nodded.

Xie Heng snapped the box shut with a *clack*, looking startled and a little dazed. “Don’t tell me… you and Ms. Lu were never actually married, and you’re only now planning to take responsibility for her?!”

Even Xie Yizhao, composed as he was, was momentarily floored by his son’s wild imagination.

His expression darkened. “Don’t talk nonsense. Of course not. I just… owe her a proposal.”

Xie Heng frowned deeply and rubbed his face, feeling indignant on Lu Xi’s behalf.

Seriously, his Dad was too much. He never even proposed to her properly back then?

Even he knew how important a proposal was, yet Ms. Lu had put up with it all this time?

Xie Heng suddenly changed his stance. He hesitated, then finally blurted out, “This ring won’t do. It’s too small. You need to buy her a bigger one.”

---

Xu Jiaming arrived home, stepped into the living room, and saw Yang Yihan talking with her manager, Brother Dong.

While changing his shoes at the entrance just now, he vaguely heard his father’s name.

“The school has already been contacted. Tomorrow, you can take Xiao Ming to complete the admission procedures…”

He also heard that sentence.

Xu Jiaming frowned slightly.

He didn’t want to leave.

Yes, during the Spring Festival, when that person kept pestering him, he didn’t want his Mom and Grandmother to worry. At that time, he thought about leaving, so they wouldn’t have to be put in a difficult position.

It seemed like it had always been this way.

As a child, he was raised in his hometown. Born with congenital malnutrition, he was weak and often bullied at school for various reasons. Later, when Yang Yihan found out, she gave him all sorts of nutritional supplements and even sent him to a martial arts school to learn self-defense, just so he could grow stronger and not be bullied.

Back then, he didn’t yet know that Yang Yihan was not his biological mother. He only sensed that his father was cold toward him, especially when Yang Yihan wasn’t around to see it.

As he grew older, he accidentally overheard his father on the phone one day.

His father complained, “He’s not my son, and he’s not hers either. Raising him is one thing, but now she won’t even have a child with me because of him. She says she’s afraid the kid will be upset!”

At that time, he was still young, too immature to fully grasp the meaning of those words. But children are sensitive. He remembered them.

He never mentioned it to his Mom or Grandmother, not even later when his parents divorced.

He had suspicions, a vague sense of the truth. But he also had an intuition that his Mom, Grandmother, and even other family members were keeping it from him. Asking would only upset them.

So, he investigated on his own.

Once a thread is pulled, unraveling the whole truth is not difficult.

On the day he finally uncovered it, he didn’t feel particularly hurt. Instead, it was a moment of realization. He finally understood why his Mom’s attitude toward him was always filled with care, yet tinged with caution, never as casual and natural as other mothers and sons. She was extraordinarily good to him, so much so that she refused to have a child of her own for his sake, and even after the divorce, she never remarried.

Xu Jiaming had once gently advised her that if she met someone suitable, she should consider it.

Yang Yihan had smiled and said, “If I find someone new, I’d worry they might not treat you well. I’d rather focus on my career while I still can.”

Focusing on her career was, of course, a good thing. But he hoped it was her own choice, not just for his sake…

But he said nothing more and never brought it up again.

Yet, the older he grew, the stronger his feelings became—as if Yang Yihan was trying very hard to play the role of a good mother, and he, in turn, had to be the obedient and understanding son, pretending to know nothing.

It had always been like this. But was it right?

If they laid everything bare, if that man had nothing left to use as leverage against them, would he no longer need to go abroad? Would life be easier for them?

“Mom. Uncle Dong.”

Seeing Xu Jiaming walk in, Yang Yihan was momentarily stunned before quickly smiling. “You’re back! Did you have fun with your friends today?”

Brother Dong, who was familiar with Xu Jiaming, also smiled at him. “It’s only seven o’clock. You’re back so early? You should spend more time with your friends, it’ll be harder to meet after this.”

Xu Jiaming glanced at him, then turned to Yang Yihan. “Mom, I don’t want to go abroad.”

Brother Dong’s smile froze. He glanced at Yang Yihan, who also looked surprised. “Why? Didn’t we already agree?”

“I’ve thought about it,” Xu Jiaming said calmly. “I want to stay. Can we talk alone?”

Brother Dong immediately stood up, said his goodbyes, and left.

Although he had managed Yang Yihan for years and had a good personal relationship with her, this was their family matter. He had no intention of intruding.

Once he was gone, only mother and son remained in the living room.

Seeing Xu Jiaming’s calm expression, Yang Yihan became nervous instead. “What’s wrong? Did he harass you again?”

Xu Jiaming slowly shook his head. “No. I just want to tell you that we don’t need to fear his threats.”

Yang Yihan’s heart pounded harder. “Xiao Ming? What… do you mean?”

Xu Jiaming sighed softly and looked at his Mom. “Because the thing he’s using to threaten you, I’ve known about it for a long time.”

Yang Yihan’s eyes widened in shock.

---

Nearly an hour later, Yang Yihan emerged from the living room, supported by Xu Jiaming.

Her eyes were red, clearly from crying. She looked even more devastated than she had the night before when she’d come home drunk.

The housekeeper was surprised. Had Xu Jiaming upset Yang Yihan? But that didn’t seem right, he had always been so obedient…

At the door to her room, Yang Yihan looked at Xu Jiaming, her gaze complicated. “I’ll think about it.”

“Alright. Don’t overthink it, just rest well.”

Yang Yihan forced a faint smile.

Once inside her bedroom, she turned on only a single floor lamp and sat there in a daze for a long time.

Maybe the shock had been too great, and maybe she had already cried all her tears. Now, she was finally able to calm down and think.

She had worked so hard to keep this secret, yet the child had known all along.

He was far too perceptive…

Yang Yihan’s mind was in turmoil.

Rationally, she knew that this might be a good thing—at the very least, her ex-husband could no longer use this to threaten her.

But her mind was still in turmoil.

She didn’t want Xu Jiaming to know about this because she was afraid he would have lingering doubts, just like some adopted children who tiptoe around in their families, overly sensitive and anxious, worried that they are not truly loved.

Yet just now, Xu Jiaming had said that all these years, he had been carefully pretending not to know anything, just like her.

In fact, he had wanted to bring it up long ago, but he kept quiet for fear of hurting her feelings, so he had played along with her act of concealment.

At that moment, Yang Yihan suddenly felt a sharp pang in her heart.

She had always thought she was doing the right thing, that she was protecting him, that she was willing to make sacrifices for him.

But if those sacrifices were only self-gratifying, if she was merely deceiving herself while keeping him in the dark… was that really the right thing to do?

She needed to think carefully, including whether or not to send him abroad.

Even if this particular threat was removed, that man was shameless. Who knew if he would become desperate and do something even worse?

Yang Yihan stayed awake the whole night.

The next morning, an unexpected visitor arrived at her home. He introduced himself as Xie Yizhao’s assistant and said he was here to deliver a document.

“CEO Xie said that whether or not you choose to use this is entirely up to you,” Li Xiao said.

Yang Yihan glanced toward the neighboring house, momentarily dazed. “What does CEO Xie mean by this?”

Li Xiao spoke in a professional, businesslike tone. “CEO Xie specifically asked me to come in person to assure you that he has no ulterior motives. He just wants his wife and son to have peace of mind. No one else will know about this matter.”

After he left, Yang Yihan opened the document, then immediately widened her eyes in shock.

Inside were detailed records of her ex-husband’s debts over the years, contact information for his creditors, and a list of enemies he had made due to certain past incidents.

After a brief moment of surprise, Yang Yihan quickly understood Xie Yizhao’s intention.

If she reached out to these people and informed them of her ex-husband’s whereabouts, would they really let him continue living freely? He would likely be too busy dealing with his own problems to harass them anymore.

Besides, now that she and Xu Jiaming had laid everything out in the open, there were no more secrets. At worst, she could make everything public.

She was just his ex-wife, and Xu Jiaming had no blood relation to him at all.

Even if he shamelessly tried to make a scene, she wasn’t afraid. They had their own good lives to live, there was no reason to let a scumbag dictate their path.

After dinner, Yang Yihan smiled and asked Xu Jiaming if he wanted to go out for a walk with her.

Xu Jiaming guessed what she wanted to talk about and agreed without hesitation.

It was rare for them to have such a leisurely moment alone together. Yang Yihan was always busy, and Xu Jiaming was not the most lively or outgoing child. They took care of each other, yet there was still a certain distance between them.

At first, as they walked, neither of them spoke, unsure of what to say.

Then, suddenly, she saw Lu Xi and her family approaching from the opposite direction.

Lu Xi walked in the middle, flanked by Xie Yizhao and Xie Heng on either side. She was smiling radiantly, looking like the center of the universe.

Seeing Yang Yihan, Lu Xi’s eyes lit up, and she walked over. “Are you two out for an after-dinner stroll as well?”

Yang Yihan smiled. “Yeah, I have work again in a few days, so I’m taking this time to be with my child.”

She couldn’t help but glance at Xie Yizhao.

He noticed her look but remained expressionless, merely nodding at her.

In that moment, Yang Yihan suddenly realized. Xie Yizhao had helped her solely for the sake of Lu Xi and Xie Heng. He didn’t need her gratitude, nor did he expect any acknowledgment from her.

Xu Jiaming greeted them politely, “Uncle Xie, CEO Lu.”

Xie Heng also called out, “Aunt Yang.”

Xie Heng was curious about how Xu Jiaming’s conversation with his Mom had gone, but now wasn’t the right time to ask. Instead, Xie Heng casted a pleading look at Lu Xi.

Unfortunately, Lu Xi completely missed his signal. “Why are you winking at me? Got something in your eye?”

“…” Xie Heng was speechless.

Lately, Ms. Lu had been speaking to him with less and less courtesy.

Feeling unfairly treated, Xie Heng decided to retaliate. He deliberately asked, “No, I was just curious, why do you two always leave at night and return in the morning? Sneaking off somewhere fun without me?”

Xie Yizhao shot him a cool sidelong glance. “Mind your own business, kid.”

…That again.

Xie Heng let out a sarcastic chuckle. “I wasn’t asking you, I was asking Ms. Lu.”

Lu Xi’s response was even more dismissive. “A little fairy and a domineering CEO, none of your concern.”

At that moment, Xie Heng finally saw the family hierarchy clearly. In this household, Ms. Lu was at the top of the pyramid, followed by his Dad, and he was at the very bottom.

Simply put, if one day Ms. Lu and his Dad had a conflict, he would definitely side with Ms. Lu without hesitation.

If Ms. Lu and he had a fight—though unlikely—his Dad would undoubtedly take Ms. Lu’s side and give him a beating.

And if he and his Dad ever had a falling-out… well, in that case, who Ms. Lu would side with was still uncertain.

He glanced at Lu Xi, his expression proud and self-assured.

Anyway, no matter what, Ms. Lu will definitely not just stand by and watch his Dad beat him.

---

Xie Heng felt quite aggrieved, as he was innocently implicated and suffered a round of threats from his own Mom.

But when he saw Lu Xi being carried back to the room by his Dad, all that grievance instantly vanished.

What was he even worried about? His Dad was the one facing a real, up-close death threat! He couldn’t help but imagine Ms. Lu going on a drunken rampage, throwing punches and kicks at his father.

Now that would be hilarious!

He wondered if his Dad would get kicked off the bed in the middle of the night and be forced to take his blanket and sleep miserably on the couch.

Xie Yizhao had no idea his son was cursing him in his heart.

He didn’t actually get kicked out of bed, but he did get kicked.

After carrying Lu Xi back to the room, he didn’t place her on the bed right away but instead let her half-recline on the sofa. This position would be more comfortable and help her sober up faster.

Just as he was about to have someone prepare a bowl of hangover soup, Lu Xi suddenly grabbed onto him. To be precise, it was his tie.

Xie Yizhao sighed helplessly and simply took off the tie, placing it in Lu Xi’s hand.

His voice was low and gentle, as if coaxing a child: “Be good. If you like it, you can keep it. I’m giving it to you.”

But Lu Xi just tossed the tie aside and grabbed onto him again. This time, by his collar.

Like a little animal, she leaned in close to his neck, sniffing around before frowning in displeasure. “You drank. You smell like alcohol.”

The helplessness in Xie Yizhao’s eyes deepened as he sighed silently.

His gaze fell on Lu Xi’s face, which was just inches away.

Her fair skin had a beautiful glow, her cheeks were slightly flushed, her eyes tinged with a bit of red, and there was a dazed, captivating look in them.

To Xie Yizhao, Lu Xi seemed to be bathed in a soft, warm light.

He instinctively leaned back slightly, trying to avoid her nuzzling.

When she was sober, Lu Xi was very sensible. She never got too close to him like this in their bedroom because she knew better than to tempt fate.

But now, she was recklessly testing his patience.

“That’s your alcohol scent, Xiao Xi,” Xie Yizhao said helplessly.

Even if there was any on him, it was because she had rubbed it onto him.

Lu Xi tilted her head in thought, then pursed her lips and muttered unhappily, “And there’s another scent on you. Some woman’s perfume… Whose is it?”

Xie Yizhao pinched the bridge of his nose, amused. “It’s from a woman named Lu Xi. Do you want to settle the score with her?”

Lu Xi hesitated for a few seconds before realizing that she was Lu Xi. She licked her lips, looked at Xie Yizhao sheepishly, then let go of him.

“Oh… I guess that’s my scent?” Lu Xi wobbled as she stood up. “I need to shower.”

She was still somewhat rational. She knew she had to wash up before sleeping, or she’d feel gross.

Xie Yizhao’s temple throbbed.

He seriously doubted she could shower by herself in this state.

“Sit down first,” he instructed, calling the butler to bring some hangover soup. After hanging up, he touched Lu Xi’s head. “I’ll help you.”

Lu Xi froze.

Uh-oh… That was a loaded statement. She needed a second to process it.

When she finally understood, she immediately eyed him with suspicion.

—Him! How could he! In a moment like this! Still be thinking about that kind of thing!?

Annoyed, she lifted her leg and kicked him.

“We agreed, nothing like that when we’re here!” Lu Xi righteously called him out.

This had always been an unspoken rule between them.

For the sake of their little rascal’s mental and emotional well-being, letting him hear anything inappropriate between his parents would be too embarrassing.

Not to mention, it wasn’t just parents. She remembered watching TV at her uncle’s house as a kid, and whenever there was even a kissing scene, she’d be so embarrassed she’d want to dig a hole and hide.

Xie Yizhao was briefly stunned by the kick, then saw her glaring at him in utter disdain. He felt both exasperated and amused.

Seeing that he was still smiling, Lu Xi bit her lip and raised her foot to kick him again.

But this time, she missed.

Xie Yizhao caught her ankle, his dark eyes glinting as he smirked. “I meant just a bath, nothing more. But you, Xiao Xi, what exactly are you thinking?”

Lu Xi : “…”

Wait, was that really what he meant?

So… the real one with a dirty mind was her?

She suddenly remembered how she’d kicked him just now and shrank back guiltily. This was getting ridiculous.

Blame it on the alcohol…

Lu Xi opened her mouth to refuse, but as she steadied herself against Xie Yizhao, she realized her head was still spinning. There was no way she could shower on her own.

She batted her lashes at him apologetically. “Then I’ll have to trouble you, Hubby?”

Xie Yizhao chuckled, replying humorously, “No problem, just don’t kick me again.”

On the way to the bathroom, Lu Xi mumbled, “Ugh, alcohol is awful. I’m never drinking again.”

Xie Yizhao raised an eyebrow.

She had said this at least five times before.

Yet she always drank again.

---

The bathroom was warm with the heating system on, but this was still her first time bathing like this.

Even though Xie Yizhao was her husband, Lu Xi still felt too embarrassed to look directly at him.

Water cascaded evenly over her skin. Instead of sobering up, she somehow felt even more lightheaded. Probably because of someone’s presence, making the air in the bathroom feel especially hot.

“Is the water temperature okay?” His deep voice brushed against her ear.

“Mhm…”

“Lean on me, don’t fall.”

Lu Xi went silent, shutting her eyes and counting sheep in her head, trying to distract herself.

She wasn’t sure how long passed. It felt like just a few seconds.

Then, she felt his lips press gently against her hair. Soft. Tender.

Lu Xi couldn’t help but open her eyes, turning around in the misty air to look at him in confusion.

His gaze locked onto hers, intense and direct, just like his presence—so bold that it caught her off guard. But the atmosphere was so perfect at this moment that she couldn’t bring herself to refuse. Instead, a strange, unfamiliar anticipation curled in her chest, making her shiver slightly.

She instinctively turned her head away again, feeling his breath tickle her shoulder.

“Keep your voice down, he won’t hear,” Xie Yizhao whispered, intertwining their fingers as he stepped closer, letting her rest her full weight against him. “Is that okay?”

Lu Xi sighed inwardly, suddenly feeling an unfamiliar flutter of excitement.

All she could do was shut her eyes and nod lightly.

At this point, she wasn’t sure anymore. Was it Xie Yizhao who seduced her, or was she the one leading him astray?

Either way… she felt so guilty.

---

The next day, Xie Heng had plans. After getting up, he told the butler he wouldn’t be home for lunch.

He also excused himself to Lu Xi—he wouldn’t be going to the studio today.

His class monitor had arranged a gathering, saying they should all hang out one more time before school started. A dozen or so classmates would be there.

Song Siyang volunteered to join, tagging Xu Jiaming and Xie Heng along.

Song Siyang thought, if Xu Jiaming really was transferring abroad, they wouldn’t get to see each other much in the future.

Whether or not Xu Jiaming understood Song Siyang’s intention, he quickly agreed.

Naturally, Xie Heng was going too.

Xie Heng already decided, as his Dad advised, to persuade Xu Jiaming to talk to his mom.

The time and place were decided by the class monitor. They would have lunch together at noon, then either go singing or play a script murder game in the afternoon. If everyone was still up for it in the evening, they’d go for a barbecue.

This was the third time Xie Heng had joined a class gathering. He wouldn’t say he had a close relationship with his classmates, but at least there was no hostility. They could joke around with him, and the atmosphere was quite pleasant.

After lunch, the group voted and ultimately decided to go singing.

Xie Heng had been to KTV many times before with his rowdy friends, but this was his first time going with classmates.

The others were also a bit reserved, hesitant to pick a song and sing.

Only Song Siyang was completely unfazed. He confidently selected a love song and sang it with a look of deep immersion, despite his voice sounding like it had been kissed by a demon.

In the end, Xie Heng couldn’t take it anymore and cut him off mid-song.

Song Siyang clutched the microphone, unwilling to let go, and laughed while pointing at the screen. “Didn’t expect that, huh? I picked this song myself!”

Xie Heng : “……”

Song Siyang handed him the microphone. “How about you sing, Brother Heng?”

Xie Heng smacked his hand away. “Get lost, I’m tone-deaf.”

Not just him, practically all ten-plus classmates claimed they couldn’t sing.

Song Siyang frowned.

This won’t do. How can everyone be this shy? How are we supposed to have fun like this?

So he proposed, “Let’s play the ‘Seven’ game. If you lose, you have to do Truth or Dare. If you refuse the challenge, then you have to sing. How about it?”

Xie Heng was never interested in these pointless games.

But this time, he glanced at Xu Jiaming, thought for a moment, then leaned back on the sofa with his hands behind his head, looking relaxed. “Sure, let’s play.”

Xu Jiaming was easygoing. He wasn’t particularly interested but nodded anyway.

A game like this would be boring if taken too seriously, but most of the students in Class A were top students, so things wouldn’t get too out of hand.

Most people weren’t dumb, they all chose Truth over Dare.

And the questions asked were mostly teasing : Do you have a boyfriend or girlfriend? Do you have a crush? That kind of thing.

Song Siyang didn’t mind. He answered what he wanted to, and if he didn’t feel like it, he just sang a song.

Xie Heng, however, seemed a bit distracted today and kept messing up.

His answers were blunt.

“No, I don’t like anyone.”

“No, I don’t have a girlfriend.”

“No, I’ve never kissed anyone… Can you stop asking these boring questions?”

Song Siyang couldn’t stand it anymore.

So he added a new rule on the spot : If someone chose Truth five times, their sixth loss could only be a Dare, or they had to sing.

Xie Heng clenched his fists, his knuckles cracking.

He knew this rule was aimed at him.

But he had to admit, it was a timely addition.

Less than three minutes later, Xie Heng lost again. This time, he had no choice but to pick Dare.

Song Siyang cheered, “Brother Heng, take out your phone! Call the first contact in your address book and say ‘I miss you’!”

Upon hearing that, Xie Heng’s face darkened.

Under the expectant gazes of his classmates, he pulled out his phone, opened his contact list, and looked utterly resigned.

The first contact was : [Dad].

“Pfft—hahahaha!!!”

The whole room erupted in laughter.

Song Siyang laughed the loudest, while even the usually reserved Xu Jiaming couldn’t help but chuckle.

Only Xie Heng couldn’t laugh.

Calling his Dad and saying ‘I miss you’ was out of the question. Absolutely impossible.

If he really did it, his Dad would probably kill him.

Without a word, Xie Heng stood up, grabbed the microphone from Song Siyang’s hand, and started singing right where the previous song had been cut off.

The others were still laughing at first, but as soon as Xie Heng started singing, the room gradually fell silent.

Even the usually cheeky Song Siyang muttered under his breath, “Holy sh*t…”

Is he kidding?

He sings this well and calls himself tone-deaf?

Is this some kind of humble brag?

The others felt the same way. A few girls who already had a crush on Xie Heng were completely mesmerized.

Xie Heng’s singing wasn’t about fancy technique, but his voice was rich and pleasant—low and deep, yet still carrying the clarity of youth. His pronunciation was slightly lazy, giving it a distinctive charm. In short, it was good.

Even Song Siyang had to admit, his Brother Heng was seriously cool.

An idea struck him. He sneakily pulled out his phone and recorded a short video.

He originally wanted to post it on his social feed, but after some thought, he decided against it. He didn’t want to get beaten up.

After hesitating for a second, he had a sudden stroke of genius and sent the video to Lu Xi.

Xie Heng remained oblivious. After finishing the song, he sat back down.

The game continued.

With the earlier excitement, even Xu Jiaming seemed more relaxed. He let his guard down and finally lost once.

He didn’t mind and chose Truth without hesitation.

Huang Ying swallowed nervously. It was her turn to ask a question, but facing Xu Jiaming, she felt too shy to ask about girlfriends or first kisses.

After a moment of hesitation, she quietly asked, “Do you believe in love at first sight or growing feelings over time?”

Xu Jiaming answered without much thought, “Love at first sight.”

Huang Ying blinked, surprised.

She hadn’t expected that. She thought someone as reserved as him would lean toward love growing over time…

Xie Heng wasn’t paying attention to the game. He just found it dull.

Originally, he planned to wait until Xu Jiaming lost a round so he could take the chance to suggest he talk to his Mom.

But now, he was running out of patience. Xu Jiaming was too good at this game.

So he found an excuse and pulled him out of the room.

Using the gentlest tone he could manage, he urged Xu Jiaming to have that conversation.

Xu Jiaming fell silent for a few seconds before smiling. “Alright, I’ll think about it… But I don’t know how to bring it up.”

Xie Heng frowned. “She’s your Mom, isn’t she? Just say it.”

Xu Jiaming said softly, “My Mom and I are different. She cares a lot about me, and I don’t want to make things difficult for her.”

Because of that secret, he had always felt that Yang Yihan was overly anxious about him. And to avoid making her feel pressured, he pretended not to know.

They deeply cared for each other, they were the closest people in the world, but they also treaded carefully, afraid to break the fragile balance between them.

Xie Heng didn’t get it.

What’s so different about this?

Seeing his confused frown, Xu Jiaming chuckled. “Honestly, sometimes I envy your relationship with CEO Lu. You guys can talk about anything, and she really, really loves you.”

Xie Heng looked away, a little embarrassed.

“What, what love? That’s so dramatic…”

Xu Jiaming smiled and offered a friendly hint : “Have you checked CEO Lu’s latest social media post? Take a look, you’re in for a surprise.”

Xie Heng, puzzled, pulled out his phone.

Then, his expression turned to pure shock.

!!!

“How the hell does Ms. Lu have a video of me singing?!” He gritted his teeth and glared at the private room door. “It must be that idiot Song!”

But despite his irritation, he had to admit, Xu Jiaming was right. Lu Xi really did love him.

Because she had posted:

[My little cub sings better than anyone in the world! ❤️]

Xie Heng was beginning to understand what Xu Jiaming meant.

Lu Xi was good at expressing love. She made him feel safe. There was nothing he couldn’t tell her. Because he was sure, beyond a doubt, that she loved him. She and him were the best duo in the world.

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