Translator: Lynn
Ji Kai didn’t waste any time while waiting for his passport to arrive. He dialed up friends and kicked off the “Gym Body Rehabilitation Plan” in full force.
“Brother Kai is incredibly disciplined, and his physique is already in such great shape.”
“Really? What part of this is good!” Ji Kai shook his head. “I was considered ‘really good’ before the car accident! I can’t even remember what my chest and abs felt like back then. It’s so disheartening, I feel like slicing someone with a watermelon knife.”
I’ve always thought, once I find Li Weidu in Europe… standing together beneath the clear blue sky, amidst cathedrals, winter snow, lanterns, and reindeer. Even if it’s frosty and cold, there’s no reason for him to remain sluggish in such a romantic atmosphere, right?!
“Before meeting that person, I always thought I was cold and aloof.” Ying Jian, the mutton stall owner, recounted.
“Oh, no matter how rough and fierce a person appears, if they have a partner, and especially a tall, ill-tempered yet attractive beauty…”
“The most annoying thing is being picked on and touched by others. In the end, I found out that, well, it was still the wrong person.”
Ji Kai nodded in agreement. “As long as the teasing is done right, one might just defeat God.”
Hence, I’ve been doubling down on my efforts these days, aiming to keep my body in top condition, both in appearance and sensation. Once I have Li Weidu in my grasp, I’ll give him a thorough taste of victory. From then on, the little puppet will transform into a little wolfdog, and singing and laughter every night will be just around the corner.
…
The treadmill god is back.
Everyone in the gym gawked at the spectacle, experiencing what it truly means to be “a blaze in winter.”
The lone TV, neglected and overlooked, was broadcasting news titled “Qi Yang and Zhu Ling’s Secret Clash of the Male Leads.”
Ji Kai glanced at it and looked away. He hadn’t heard from Qi Yang in a while, as he didn’t keep up with trending topics or the recent gossip about “Zhu Ling and Qi Yang’s feud.”
They avoided riding the same elevator or appearing on the same variety show, maintaining a cold front during promotions for their new drama with “zero interaction.” They even deleted each other’s lines and competed for costumes on set. In short, there was a lot of friction.
…
Qi Yang had indeed been preoccupied with his ongoing feud with Zhu Ling. He was brimming with energy and had no time to spare for anything else.
Director Xia must be blind.
After their trip to South America, Qi Yang’s perception of Zhu Ling underwent a complete transformation. Previously, he had looked down on him and joked about him potentially becoming a failure. Yet, three months later, he found himself saying, “This kid actually puts in effort.”
He even personally recommended Zhu Ling to join a big-budget Republican drama as the second male lead, which Qi Yang had just signed onto. The drama featured a female protagonist, where Qi Yang’s character was bohemian, elegant, and affectionate.
Unfortunately, three-quarters into the plot, his character met a heroic demise.
Zhu Ling’s character, on the other hand, played the heroine’s scoundrel ex-husband, initially depicted as indulgent in vices like drinking and gambling. However, by the end of the story, after confronting national crises and family disputes, he redeemed himself, forming a bond of friendship with the heroine during times of adversity.
Immediately, a group of fans began proclaiming, “The male lead is the one with the female protagonist,” and “Zhu Ling’s acting skills surpass Qi Yang’s,” sparking a heated debate.
Qi Yang suspected that Zhu Ling might have bought followers.
How could such an unpopular figure garner so many fans?
With a cold snort, he swiftly deleted his Weibo post: “Haha, some people are finally revealing their true colors.”
The next day, Zhu Ling smiled at the press conference: “Are you praising my acting skills? After all, this is a realistic drama, and there’s nothing wrong with Qi Yang. He died just halfway through. Whether he’s there or not wouldn’t make much of a difference.”
The camera focused on the two of them in the ancient town, surrounded by the ambiance of a Republican-era private school—vermilion windows in daylight, inkstones, paper, and ink scattered on the floor.
Qi Yang’s character, the upright teacher, remarked, “Master Ling, instead of carousing in Hualiu Lane’s opium den today, you’ve come to the school to cause trouble. Could it be true what they say about smoking causing brain problems?”
Zhu Ling’s character, a young man from a wealthy family, snapped the bone of his sandalwood fan: “Qi, she’s my wife!”
Qi Yang responded, “Mr. Ling has been divorced from his wife for more than half a year.”
“Even if he’s divorced, she’s still my wife! It’s none of your business! Look at yourself! She’s a refined and virtuous woman; even if she wanted to remarry hastily, she wouldn’t choose you—a poor, hypocritical, buck-toothed flirt!”
The script simply read: “poor guy.”
Zhu Ling improvised a lengthy tirade without permission, leaving the director in a bind. But the outburst continued, fueled by genuine emotion, especially evident in the trembling anger and clenched teeth, adding a striking realism to the scene!
Director Xia was correct; Zhu Ling’s acting had indeed improved.
“Master Ling appears rather ill-tempered today,” remarked the teacher, arching an eyebrow with a smile. However, the dandyish young master seized him by the collar.
“The good days are over! Let me make one thing clear, Qi will be my wife for life! If you dare to approach him again, I’ll have my father cut off your dog’s claws and break your legs! I’ll strip your skin, shatter your bones, and knock out your front teeth!”
Qi Yang:? ? ? That line wasn’t in the script!
Is this going too far? Have I, Qi Yang, offended you? !
…
Zhou Yile found the role of an entertainment reporter to be more challenging than anticipated.
It was truly daunting! As the young leader of the paparazzi group known as the “Sexual Death Group,” receiving simultaneous dinner invitations from both Qi Yang and Zhu Ling was both flattering and nerve-wracking, placing Zhou Yile at the center of a whirlwind of uncertainty.
Whose side should he choose?
The correct answer? None! It was a no-win situation!
Numerous palace intrigue dramas had taught Zhou Yile through bloody examples that picking the wrong side now could lead to exile and ruin in the future!
“Brother Ling, I apologize. I need to take a leave. I’m planning to visit Lake Baikal to capture images of the blue ice while the weather is cold. Can Xiao Wang cover for me?” Zhu Ling’s response was chillingly direct: “It’s fine. I know you want to be with Qi Yang.”
Zhou Yile was on the verge of tears as he retorted, “I’m not even going! I truly want to visit Lake Baikal to see the ice! I’ll depart tomorrow!”
The following day, Zhou Yile embarked on a somber journey, laden with a hefty anti-freeze bag, transferring from SB City to an international flight bound for Siberia. In the Siberian winter, where temperatures hovered around minus 30 degrees Celsius all day, regular mobile phone cameras would automatically shut down. Armed with this sturdy equipment, he aimed to capture images of the rare blue ice… and perhaps, some handsome migrant workers.
…
For the first time, Zhou Yile observed a migrant worker up close. How could someone be so strikingly attractive?
In an unexpected turn of events, Zhou Yile found himself seated in the aisle, with the migrant worker occupying the window seat next to him!
Before boarding the plane, the migrant worker shed his black European-style thick down jacket, revealing a shirt and dark vest underneath. Ever since his involvement with the CEO, he had become increasingly refined and less reminiscent of a migrant worker!
Immediately, Zhou Yile envisioned a series of endearing scenarios where the CEO imparted fashion advice and he playfully resisted and complained.
…It was wonderful, having someone to love.
Reflecting on past tabloid news segments, some colleagues had warned against getting too involved, cautioning that wealthy young men often grew tired of their playthings, leaving heartache in their wake. Yet, so far, everything seemed to be going well…
But wait, why wasn’t the migrant worker with Mr. Li today?
Clutching his backpack, the migrant worker sat with a solemn expression, furrowing his brows and exuding an air of melancholy.
Could something be amiss?
…
Ji Kai remained oblivious to the stares directed his way by those around him.
His furrowed brow reflected his concern, and he clung to his backpack, which held Li Weidu’s stomach medicine.
President Li had been overseas for over a week, traversing countries like Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and finally arriving in Russia, just beginning his journey there.
Why was it taking so long?
The culprit? The infamous Schengen visa.
Ji Kai had never anticipated the bureaucratic hurdles of Europe. Obtaining a simple tourist visa proved to be an ordeal, with a laundry list of complex requirements, including over a dozen supporting documents.
Desperate to avoid the hassle, Ji Kai sought assistance from an agency, only to be met with discriminatory remarks about his modest university teacher salary.
Luckily, his property ownership and other credentials expedited the process, culminating in a call from Vice President Chen seeking advice on Li Weidu’s travel arrangements.
…
Li Weidu had been suffering from a persistent stomach ache for several days.
Initially, Ji Kai had endured it, anticipating Li Weidu’s imminent return, eager to comfort and care for him.
Yet, each day passed without resolution, delaying the visa application process.
Now, Ji Kai’s patience was wearing thin, compounded by the harsh realities of Russia’s unforgiving climate.
Li Weidu, typically reserved in his language, now vented frustration, cursing the Siberian winter and their inconvenient meeting location.
Despite Ji Kai’s elegant attire and resilience in facing rain in France and snow in Germany, the biting winds of Russia proved insurmountable.
The luxury of a five-star hotel offered little solace against the relentless cold, exacerbating Li Weidu’s stomach pains.
Navigating a country with limited internet access and language barriers, Ji Kai found himself in a surreal environment, lacking even the basic comforts of home.
As Li Weidu’s discomfort escalated, he lashed out, feeling betrayed by Ji Kai’s absence.
Though Ji Kai understood he wasn’t entirely to blame, he felt helpless, akin to a child denied a treat.
Even Vice President Chen, accustomed to Li Weidu’s stoicism, was taken aback by his colleague’s vulnerability.
Previously, Li Weidu had kept his personal life private, but recent changes in his demeanor hinted at a newfound happiness.
Love, it seemed, had a remarkable ability to soften even the toughest exteriors.
Vice President Chen couldn’t help but empathize with his boss, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of love.
…
Ji Kai ended the call, consumed with worry and anguish.
As he fretted over how to reach Li Weidu as swiftly as possible, a sudden realization dawned on him—Russia wasn’t part of the Schengen visa zone.
Upon confirming with the travel agency, he learned that Russia and its neighboring countries operated with more leniency, sidestepping visa complications altogether.
“Have you reached the airport?” Ji Kai inquired.
“I’m about to board the plane. If you wait a bit longer, I’ll be at your doorstep in three hours,” Li Weidu replied eagerly.
Vice President Chen observed, astonished, as Li Weidu seemingly surged with newfound vitality, as if a switch had been flipped.
“I’m going to pick him up from the airport!” Li Weidu declared, his determination palpable.
“It’s alright, it’s alright. The pain doesn’t matter. He’s coming, I’ll be fine,” he reassured himself.
Was this the power of love? Vice President Chen couldn’t help but marvel at the transformation.
…
Navigating the small, dilapidated airport proved challenging, compounded by the absence of taxis.
Despite his proficiency in English and Latin, Ji Kai found himself at a loss amidst the Mauritian locals, who seemed oblivious to his attempts at communication.
Frustrated, he gestured frantically at the information desk, only to be met with puzzled expressions.
Then, a familiar figure emerged from the crowd – his beloved Li Weidu.
Perhaps it was the post-breakup camaraderie or the relief of seeing each other, but they embraced tightly, Ji Kai immediately noticing Li Weidu’s inadequate attire for the freezing Russian weather.
Swiftly, Ji Kai draped his down jacket over Li Weidu’s shoulders, rushing to fetch stomach medicine amidst the biting cold.
Though the embrace lacked the romance of a fairy tale, Ji Kai couldn’t help but find Li Weidu’s bundled-up appearance endearing, his single eyelids peering out from beneath layers of winter wear.
Despite the chill, Ji Kai felt an overwhelming urge to kiss him, to warm those cold hands, nose, and lips with his own.
…
Throughout the journey back, Ji Kai tenderly placed his hand beneath Li Weidu’s clothes, offering warmth to his chilled stomach. Leaning against Ji Kai’s shoulder, Li Weidu clasped one of his hands tightly, succumbing to drowsiness.
“It seems Mr. Li is quite exhausted. His stomach troubles and lack of rest have taken a toll,” Vice President Chen remarked, his attempt at small talk falling flat.
After a brief silence in the car, he cleared his throat awkwardly. “You know, the other day I asked Mr. Li why he couldn’t sleep. Can you guess what he said?” he chuckled. “He confessed it was because he missed you terribly. It’s not quite the Mr. Li I’m familiar with. He seems to rely on you quite a bit.”
“Now that you’re back, he can finally rest peacefully,” Vice President Chen added.
A pang of emotion tugged at Ji Kai’s heart, his breath catching in his throat.
That evening, Li Weidu struggled to find rest.
Tossing and turning, he nearly slipped off the bed edge, saved only by Ji Kai’s swift intervention. Worried for his comfort, Ji Kai gently inquired, “Mr. Li, are you still in pain?”
After a moment’s pause, Li Weidu responded with a quiet embrace, his eyes closed.
“…No.”
Uncertain if Li Weidu was awake, Ji Kai persisted, “Mr. Li?”
No reply.
“Are you awake?”
Still no response.
“Do you love me?”
“Love,” came the immediate response, as Li Weidu drew closer, planting a kiss on Ji Kai’s lips before drifting back into slumber.
Ji Kai marveled at Li Weidu’s sleep-induced affection, finding his sleepwalking antics utterly remarkable.
…
The following morning brought warmth and brightness, as golden sunlight flooded through the window, casting a radiant glow over the bed. Wrapped in comforting embrace, Ji Kai found solace in the intimate closeness of another’s body, their limbs entwined and a hand tenderly resting on his stomach, soothing the pains that had plagued him for days.
“Weidu, are you awake?” Ji Kai’s gentle voice stirred Li Weidu from his reverie, sending a jolt of unexpected emotion coursing through him. Caught between the desire to turn and hide beneath the covers and the urge to face Ji Kai, he felt utterly overwhelmed.
“Weidu.”
…Weidu.
It became Weidu.
Finally, he was no longer Mr. Li and became “Weidu”, so suddenly.
The simple address held a profound significance, marking a shift in their relationship from formality to intimacy.
“Do you still feel any discomfort in your stomach? Would you like something to eat?” Ji Kai’s concern washed over Li Weidu, prompting a subtle quiver at the corners of his lips and a tremble in his Adam’s apple. Lost in a moment of contentment, he failed to notice the subtle shift in Ji Kai’s demeanor, a glint of mischief lurking in his now alert eyes.
But it wasn’t entirely unexpected.
…I’ll tease you until you can’t resist.
Li Weidu remained unprepared, still basking in the aftermath of their intimacy. He called him “Weidu.” Then… what should he call Ji Kai in return?
Lost in thought, he was suddenly enveloped by a warm embrace, Ji Kai’s lips finding his in a tender kiss before deepening into a passionate embrace. His body pressed against Li Weidu’s, igniting a cascade of sensations that left him breathless.
Then, just as things began to escalate, Li Weidu’s hand halted Ji Kai’s advances.
“Don’t… I don’t want to,” he murmured, halting Ji Kai in his tracks.
“…But you’re already…” Ji Kai’s confusion was palpable. How could Li Weidu suddenly refuse when he was already showing signs of arousal?
Suppressing his frustration, Ji Kai persisted, “Are you too tired?”
A shake of the head.
“You don’t have to exert yourself. I’ll take the lead.”
Another shake of the head.
“Mr. Li, is there some rule I’m unaware of? Do we have to wait until marriage?” Ji Kai’s frustration simmered beneath his words, puzzled by Li Weidu’s sudden reluctance.
“This… It’s something you do with someone you love deeply,” Li Weidu struggled to articulate his feelings, avoiding Ji Kai’s gaze. “I like you a lot, Ji Kai. I really do.”
But beneath his declaration lay an unspoken fear – a fear of not knowing Ji Kai well enough, a fear of the unknown.
“I just don’t feel like I know you well enough.”
Li Weidu’s admission hung heavily in the air, laden with uncertainty and doubt. Despite his affection for Ji Kai, he grappled with a profound sense of unease, a fear that threatened to overshadow their burgeoning relationship.
All he knew was that Ji Kai was kind, cheerful, and charming. But beneath his affable exterior lay a myriad of unanswered questions – questions that gnawed at Li Weidu’s insecurities and left him grappling for answers.
Did Ji Kai truly love him? And if so, did he love him enough to overlook his doubts and fears?
Unable to shake the lingering doubts that plagued him, Li Weidu couldn’t help but wonder – did he truly know Ji Kai at all?
…
Ji Kai found himself at a loss for words.
He felt like he grasped Li Weidu’s stance, yet simultaneously felt utterly perplexed by it.
…Still grappling to understand.
After all, the world harbored those who could intertwine physical intimacy with love, as well as those who staunchly separated the two. Some, like Qi Yang and Zuo Yan, prioritized physical pleasure over emotional attachment, dismissing relationships as costly endeavors. They navigated through life, surrounded by admirers yet untouched by genuine affection.
Emotions, physicality—there existed no universal standards.
For Ji Kai, the sentiment of “liking” was profound enough to seek to connect with Li Weidu on a soulful level through physical intimacy.
He believed it all fell into place.
Liking, indulging, and then naturally yearning for deeper, more intimate connections. A fusion of souls and bodies, followed by a journey of mutual understanding, coexistence, and love.
Yet, for Li Weidu, the same intimacy held a deeper sanctity.
So sacred, in fact, that even amid the tumult of hormones and dopamine, he remained steadfast, his body trembling with resolve to resist.
Perhaps, for him, intimacy transcended mere desire and pleasure.
Rather, it represented a solemn commitment, akin to a lifelong vow.
…
“Tell me, what do you want to know?”
Alright, I can endure a little longer. Though visually taxing on both body and mind, who wouldn’t endure for someone like you…!
Ji Kai rolled over, lying beside him.
At least today, I’ve confirmed you’re not as aloof as I thought, quite the revelation… Let’s bear with it a little longer.
“If you ask, I’ll explain,” Ji Kai pondered for a moment. “Oh, and I almost forgot. Before I left, your father paid me a visit.”
Li Weidu, stunned, sat up abruptly, on the verge of panic.
Please let me know if there are typos/mistakes in the chapter.
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