Translator: Lynn
In life, it’s inevitable to encounter numerous pitfalls and traps.
A single misstep can lead to a labyrinthine journey, akin to a blind bird, flying, struggling to find an exit.
Frustration accumulates .
Not long after, when Zhu Ling finally regained composure and reflected on the past two years of his life, what unfolded before him resembled a crumpled test paper, marked with red crosses throughout.
…Even if the questions were challenging, it’s baffling to see such obvious and nonsensical deductions.
Because there’s nothing wrong at all!
…
Fate has blessed Zhu Ling in many ways.
Not only has he found a loving and tolerant partner, but he has also been presented with numerous opportunities for introspection, all of which he has foolishly overlooked.
Even now, memories of the callous character he portrayed in the Republic of China drama with Qi Yang serve as a stark reminder.
That character, a foolish and arrogant dandy, knew he was wrong but refused to admit it, opting instead to maintain his facade of superiority. His actions ultimately shattered the heart of the woman he loved, leaving him secretly heartbroken.
Despite enduring countless hardships to reunite with her, he still failed to learn from his mistakes, resorting to cruel words and condescension upon their reunion.
As Zhu Ling recited his lines, he couldn’t help but ponder: Who is the real fool here?
…
Li Weidu’s sinister grin sent chills down his spine, jolting him to at least half-consciousness.
It’s utterly unsettling—what kind of twisted smile is that? Only psychopaths could sport such an expression; normal people wouldn’t dare.
“Kai, Brother Kai…”
It felt downright eerie, as if his beloved baby bear was about to walk into danger.
In his mind’s eye, he could picture the baby bear, innocently chasing after the sweetness of honey, unaware of the treacherous pitfall lying just ahead, laid by cunning hunters.
“Brother Kai, you didn’t see it. Just now—just now—”
How could you choose him? He’s so dangerous, a complete psychopath! Can’t you see?!
“I meant what I said before, and now too. Brother Kai, please don’t be angry! I didn’t mean those words for you! Listen to me, Brother Kai. Whatever you do, don’t be with him! You shouldn’t be with him at all!
“You don’t know him well. His family is troublesome! Don’t let him deceive you. Who knows what he’s capable of? He went crazy that day; who knows what he’ll do to you… I’m here for your own good! I’m doing everything for you without any ulterior motives!”
His head collided with the cold wall with a thud.
His throat tightened as Li Weidu’s grip tightened around it.
“…,” His mind raced, desperately trying to catch Ji Kai’s eye—did you see it? Brother Kai, did you see it?
The scene of this deliberate murder played out before him! This man is the offspring of a murderer! This is what people like him are capable of when things don’t go their way!
“Weidu, Weidu, please, stay calm, stay calm!”
Qi Yang rushed over, clutching his popcorn: “Let him die on his own, let’s not break the law by committing murder!”
Li Weidu: “…”
“Seriously! Look into my sincere eyes, alright? I know I have no influence on him. Brother Kai, come on, tell him!”
… “Ahem, cough, cough, cough…”
Zhu Ling struggled to breathe, feeling unsteady on his feet. His gaze drifted to Ji Kai’s hand.
That hand slowly held Li Weidu. Gently caressing his pale and sick hand that was almost killing someone just now, slowly their palms met, fingers interlocking.
Wow, he almost killed me just now. You saw it, didn’t you? Yet you… Zhu Ling suppressed the surge of grievances and lifted his gaze to Ji Kai’s familiar, handsome face, filled with melancholy.
There was no expression, no hint of the discomfort Zhu Ling had just experienced.
For a moment, Zhu Ling was bewildered. This was a man who could flare up in anger and light up a room with his smile. It was always vivid and real, but now, in this dead silence before the storm, it felt out of place.
But in the next moment, Zhu Ling would have preferred a storm to hit him.
It would have been easier if Ji Kai exploded and scolded him harshly.
No.
Instead of looking at him, Ji Kai turned his gaze to Li Weidu.
“Let’s go,” Ji Kai’s voice was calm, devoid of emotion. He didn’t spare Qi Yang a second glance.
Panicked by the passive dismissal, Zhu Ling called out, “Baby Bear!”
Ji Kai didn’t look back. Li Weidu turned, a smug look in his eyes, a hint of malicious sarcasm playing at the corner of his mouth.
“In the future, don’t call him ‘Baby Bear’ anymore. You no longer have that right,” Li Weidu said, his tone cutting.
It’s not up to me, so why should it be up to you? Baby Bear, don’t be deceived by that lunatic!
Gritting his teeth, Zhu Ling attempted to chase after them but was halted by Qi Yang.
A box of popcorn tumbled, catching Qi Yang’s attention. Qi Yang raised an eyebrow, gesturing to the corner of the arch hall.
“Zhu Ling, someone’s watching. You’re not wearing any makeup or styled hair today, right? Making a scene would land you on tomorrow’s headlines, makeup-free~” Qi Yang’s words shook Zhu Ling.
Only then did he notice someone nearby holding a professional camera. Wait, isn’t that the discerning little entertainment reporter from the “Death Group”…?
Instinctively, Qi Yang grabbed his sunglasses and mask from his pocket, shooting a sharp, fierce glance at the reporter.
Small reporter Zhou Yile gulped nervously. That was intense!
Undeterred, the reporter continued to film with unwavering professionalism.
…
As Zhu Ling hastily exited the 3D movie theater, his eyes caught sight of the two figures holding hands amidst the bustling crowd of the amusement park under the bright lights.
They came to a halt.
Li Weidu calmly stooped down.
With practiced ease, he knelt halfway at Ji Kai’s feet, deftly tying his shoelaces as if he had done it countless times before.
At that moment, a profound sense of bitterness, as if fate itself was mocking him, washed over Zhu Ling.
All this time, according to Ye Yin’s description, Li Weidu was portrayed as a complete lunatic—a control freak with mental issues, suffocating and undeserving of love.
Yet, against all odds, he was the one cherished deeply in Ji Kai’s cherished memories.
For years, it was the warm sunlight filtering through the ivy leaves beside the red brick windows of the verdant campus.
Zhu Ling always knew he fell short of Ye Yin’s idealized image.
“No, you’re perfect.”
Several times, Zhu Ling attempted to explain to Ye Yin, “I’m not the man you think I am,” but Ye Yin would only smile and shake his head, his gaze akin to drowning in a pool of sweet spring water.
Is there such a person in everyone’s heart?
Like the May flowers, the golden autumn leaves, and the bright winter sun streaming through the windowsill. Radiating soft light and a backdrop of stars, every ordinary word and action can effortlessly stand out and shine.
Could it be…
In Ji Kai’s heart, Li Weidu had become that person.
A sudden wave of unease swept over Zhu Ling. In these past days, he had been frantic and reckless, exposing his ugliest side to Ji Kai without reservation.
And Li Weidu? He was affluent and handsome, even feigning humility to tie his shoelaces. He must always present his best self to Ji Kai!
What now? His rival had gone to great lengths to portray himself as an impeccable and flawless lover.
His baby bear was already smitten.
If Li Weidu had once seemed incapable of challenging his place in Ji Kai’s heart…
Could Zhu Ling truly find a way to erase Li Weidu, who had come from behind, snatching his baby bear’s heart?
…
…
Ji Kai felt genuinely sorry for Qi Yang.
He couldn’t bear to watch the horror movie he had suggested, sensing an inexplicable tension in the air afterward, which seemed to embarrass Qi Yang.
The trio had purchased a two-day, one-night amusement park package, inclusive of accommodation in a whimsical hotel. Situated by the water’s edge, the hotel boasted a captivating European fairytale castle design with an oceanic theme.
Starting from the corridor, large fish tanks adorned with vibrant corals, aquatic flora, and shells were illuminated by colorful lights. Shoals of tropical fish swam joyfully, their gills fluttering in the water.
Ji Kai wasn’t particularly fond of eating fish, but ever since meeting Li Weidu, he found himself enjoying watching the buoyant fish darting around.
Their room, located at the end of the corridor, was connected to two elegant adjoining suites with walls painted in a deep shade of blue.
Qi Yang chimed in, “Well, it’s already nine o’clock! I’ll head back to the room to rest first, so I won’t disturb you two~~” With a swift motion, he closed the door and leaped onto the bed, picking up the glass cup from the bedside and pressing it against the wall to eavesdrop.
The atmosphere earlier was incredibly tense!
As they walked along, despite holding hands, they hadn’t exchanged a word. It made Qi Yang jittery while munching on popcorn, too afraid to say anything.
It’s all Zhu Ling’s fault!
Considering Weidu’s strong inclination towards exclusivity, why would Brother Kai feel jealous because of that guy just now? It’s definitely a major blow.
Once the door is closed later, there shouldn’t be any arguing, right?
If an argument erupts, should he intervene? How should he calm them down? Wei Xuan, Wei Xuan, please respond to this message quickly!
…
After shutting the door, the room gradually bathed in light.
Instead of overhead fluorescent lamps, the four walls were adorned with tiny artificial stars, resembling those twinkling over a serene sea.
Projected ripples and aquatic plants danced on the walls. The nautilus-shaped shelves and shell-shaped beds, coupled with the soft murmur of a flowing river outside the window, evoked a sensation of drifting in the tranquil, vast depths of the ocean.
Ji Kai’s dark pupils sparkled with the reflected stars, and a smile played at the corners of his lips.
Upon returning, he resolved to give this hotel a glowing five-star review and compose a lengthy recommendation.
The exquisite artistic design and romantic ambiance were truly… conducive to romance. Perhaps all it took was a kiss and an embrace, under this enchanting artificial starry sky.
“After all, who can resist such beautiful scenery? At worst, I’ll indulge in some romance later… ahem, beneath this ethereal starlight.”
“If you want to leave, we can find another place to stay,” Ji Kai remarked as he sank into the sofa.
Li Weidu joined him, the sofa’s water-like fabric gently yielding beneath them. “No need,” he replied. “Wherever I am with you feels like home.”
Ji Kai was taken aback. Was Li always this magnanimous? Then why had he been so silent earlier?
As he pondered, Li Weidu took his hand and placed it over his chest, through his clothing.
“I have a slight stomach ache, perhaps from catching a cold,” Li Weidu explained.
Ji Kai’s heart clenched with concern. He berated himself for not reminding Li to bring medicine for their night out at the amusement park. Was there a pharmacy nearby? However, they were in a remote area of City S. Would they be able to find a taxi at this late hour?
“It’s fine, you don’t need medication. I’ll massage it for you,” Ji Kai reassured him, promptly retrieving a warm baby pain relief patch.
As he gently applied it, Ji Kai noticed a difference. In the past, Li’s stomachaches had been accompanied by cold, rigid sensations, as if a stone were lodged within. But now, his touch was warm and soft, completely normal.
In recent days, through their nightly embraces, Ji Kai had grown intimately familiar with every inch of Li’s body.
…
Could it be that there’s actually no pain?
He claimed to be in pain and requested the massage, but perhaps he just wanted attention. He desired Ji Kai’s undivided focus and care, rather than having his mind wander to others.
…Ji Kai truly detests being deceived.
Especially after enduring multiple deceptions from a past partner who excelled at deceit, he has no desire to be deceived again.
…
But goodness, my heart is in turmoil!
I just want to hold him tight! I yearn to embrace him, shower him with kisses, lay him down on the water sofa, and indulge in the bliss of unity with nature tonight, regardless of his consent!
Truly, have I already fallen this deep…
All my principles as a rational associate law professor—my beliefs, boundaries, and ethical guidelines – have vanished into thin air.
A flood of tenderness and sweetness fills my heart, leaving me trembling.
…
…
Li Weidu was indeed feigning illness. He acknowledged that his mindset was currently veering towards a darker place.
Because it’s just so unpleasant!
Like standing under the shower, daring to let those tears flow—daring to cry over you, of all people! Do you still hold a candle for him in your heart?
But he can’t bring it up or inquire about it. He doesn’t want to make Baby Bear any more uncomfortable, nor do he want him to sense that he minds and resented that thought.
‘If I want him to quickly forget Zhu Ling, I must, I absolutely must, put on a facade of magnanimity, maturity, and composure.’
‘But how can I muster such generosity…’
After showering, he stepped out to let Ji Kai in. Just as Li Weidu was about to dry his hair, the phone on the bed lit up.
A message from Zhu Ling: “Brother Kai, I’m sorry.”
After a string of messages, Li Wei struggled to cling to his last shred of sanity and picked up the phone. The screen’s glow danced across his deep, dark eyes and the corners of his lips twitched. The other party sent a message, and he deleted it.
After deleting multiple messages in frustration, he replied curtly: “Stop messaging me. I’m happy now, and I love him deeply and wholeheartedly!” Sent.
“What right does he have to demand your kindness?”
…
His fingers moved beyond the realm of reason, relentlessly pounding the send button.
“What right do you have to expect him to treat you well? Wasn’t he kind to you before? Did you appreciate it? You know how to deceive him, don’t you?”
“When did you not claim to love him and rely on him? ‘I love you’ and strive to hurt him! You still have the audacity…”
Li Weidu was so worked up that he forgot to maintain his facade.
Zhu Ling called directly, and Li Weidu hit the block button, blacklisting him. He stood there, unable to contain his emotions.
“I’ve blocked all his messages, phone numbers, and chat apps! He’s not allowed to contact him again or add him back!”
“…”
The sound of rushing water from the bathroom left Li Weidu dumbfounded.
The steam enveloped the soaked man under the dim light, lending a sense of vitality to the scene.
…
Ji Kai was equally stunned.
He’s in the middle of a shower! What’s the rush?
Li Weidu’s face flushed, and he moved to shut the door but was stopped.
Water droplets cascaded down his collarbone. Ji Kai smirked, like a mischievous boy plotting to tease a good girl: “How about we shower together?”
“I’ve already showered.”
“Then let’s shower again.”
…
The light played on Li Weidu’s stoic face, giving it a slightly rigid appearance.
He really caught him off guard. Li Weidu undressed neatly and without any fuss.
Now, the one who was teasing started to panic—something wasn’t right, it was really not right! Today, Mr. Li was in a completely abnormal state.
Where’s the endearing shyness he usually displays? What happened to being flustered against the wall?
Give me back the tousled hair that springs up when I touch it!
I’m so sorry, I just… cried so much! How can I explain to him that I actually think more about his heart, and Zhu Ling only occupies a small part of my thoughts. In short…
“You should block him! You should have deleted his contact ages ago.”
“The main reason is that he hasn’t reached out to me; otherwise, I would have blocked him long ago.”
“Seriously, think about it. Not long after I broke up with Zhu Ling, I was hit. Since then, you’ve been by my side and you’ve never seen me contact him, right?”
Sincerity, authenticity! Tone, demeanor, political correctness!
…
The steamy water cascading down his cheeks veiled the flickering emotions in Li Weidu’s eyes.
He knows Zhu Ling all too well.
The blackmailing isn’t over; it’s far from over. There’s bound to be a comeback, and some matters are far from settled!
Alright.
Fine, let’s battle it out.
I’ll treat baby bear exceptionally well, a hundredfold and a thousandfold better than you ever could. I’ll put in every effort and resort to any means necessary. I won’t surrender him to you. Not a chance!
With a grim determination verging on clenched teeth, Ji Kai suddenly wrapped his arms tightly around Li Weidu.
“Mr. Li~” The voice was husky, with a hint of a playful tone, as he leaned in close to Li Weidu’s ear, breathing warmly and moistly.
…It’s Weidu, Weidu!
No matter how many times he mistakenly calls my name, I fear you hardly even have me on your mind!
“Mr. Li,” the voice dropped lower, teasingly, stirring a tantalizing sensation: “Allow me to recite a Ming Dynasty limerick to you.”
“Back in the day, everything was a part of the game of zither, chess, calligraphy, painting, poetry, wine and flowers. But now everything has changed….”
“Soy sauce… vinegar, vinegar, vinegar, vinegar, vinegar, vinegar, vinegar, vinegar, vinegar, tea.”1In short, Ji Kai is saying Li Weidu is full of vinegar. Vinegar is associated with jealousy
Please let me know if there are typos/mistakes in the chapter.
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