Stealing Your Love [Full Text] - 9

Chapter Eighty: The Game

What kind of game is this?

Friends in the audience shouted, "We want to see the female prisoner up close!"

"Alright!" Han Cheng laughed. "If you want to see her, please come up on stage, everyone!"

After a flurry of chaotic footsteps, the stage lights dimmed.

Jingzhi suddenly found herself transported to some inexplicable historical timeline. She was instantly surrounded by a crowd of people dressed as pirates from a movie—a dark mass encircling her.

She looked left and right. Although everyone was of different heights and builds, they were all dressed similarly to You Yang.

She was completely surrounded, unable to distinguish between reality and a dream. Although these men didn't say or do anything inappropriate, Jingzhi still trembled under their gaze.

It seemed that in the distant past, she had indeed been bound hand and foot in the middle of a group of barbaric pirates.

During her travels in Europe, she had visited Viking ships in Oslo, Norway. The 17th and 18th centuries in Europe were also an era rife with piracy…

This scene stirred her rich imagination. She could picture, in that bygone era, powerless women, encountering these barbaric and unreasonable pirates, could only helplessly allow them to plunder and steal at their whim.

In fact, isn't it the same in modern times?

If it weren't for You Yang, if she were just a stranger, completely unrelated to these pirates, her fate…

Although these men surrounded Jingzhi, whistling and joking, they seemed somewhat wary of her, hesitant to get too close or surround her too tightly.

Jingzhi noticed this and turned to look for Han Cheng, but he had disappeared.

“What, is the princess in distress unhappy?” A voice broke the silent standoff. Jingzhi was drawn to the voice; her gaze swept across the crowd, and a tall man in a black cloak and a turban strode towards them.

This man… Jingzhi froze. She wanted to run, to lift her cumbersome skirt and run far away, but she couldn't move. This man… she just stood there, skirt in hand.

The crowd automatically parted to make way for him. Jingzhi held her breath and met his gaze.

The lamplight cast the shadow of his hat brim onto his face, leaving an inscrutable shadow.

He slowly scrutinized Jingzhi through his blindfold, from her disheveled hair to the tattered skirt revealing her underskirt.

Jingzhi raised her head and glared back at him. After a long while, he moved his lips and smiled, his deep, stern expression softening slightly.

This tall, cloaked pirate slowly walked through the crowd, who automatically parted to make way for him. He slowly approached Jingzhi, and her heart pounded wildly.

No! Was this really You Yang? She couldn't be sure...

Closer, closer still...

Jingzhi stared numbly as the man drew nearer, slowly approaching her. His thoughtful gaze lingered on her face...

Finally, they were only two meters apart.

He steadied himself, his narrowed eyes scrutinizing Jingzhi with a thoughtful expression.

"A princess in distress?" His voice was deep and cold: "You are mine."

It was You Yang!

Good heavens, what trick was he playing?

"What exactly do you want?" Jingzhi asked, confused. "This joke isn't funny."

"Don't ask so many questions," he ignored her questioning, gracefully extending a hand, his posture like that of a pirate king reigning supreme: "You are mine now."

The soft, wide sleeve of his robe was finished at his wrist with expensive lace, and the slender hand reaching out to her momentarily stunned Jingzhi—as if she had seen this gesture centuries ago.

Jingzhi cursed herself for feeling such longing for this seemingly unyielding and cold man before her. She longed for You Yang to look at her with warm eyes, she longed for his touch…

But now, this wretched game made her involuntarily hate her own weakness: “Get out of here! I don’t want to play a role in this drama anymore! The game is over!”

“Don’t like it?” You Yang smiled.

“Don’t like it,” Jingzhi suddenly raised her bound hands, “What the hell is going on?”

“Oh, you don’t like it…” A sad smile appeared on You Yang’s lips, “Then I’ll untie you.”

Before Jingzhi could react, a flash of silver light appeared, and You Yang actually drew a sharp dagger from the scabbard of a decorative accessory at his waist.

The surrounding noise immediately quieted down, and Jingzhi was stunned by his sudden action.

It was an extremely sharp dagger, and Jingzhi could hear the surrounding crowd whispering in admiration, though she couldn’t tell whether they were admiring his action of drawing the sword or the dagger’s sharpness.

You Yang grabbed her wrist, which was tied together, and neatly cut the rope. "Okay, the rope is off."

Before Jingzhi could react, You Yang had already hoisted her onto his shoulder. Jingzhi screamed, and everything in the world seemed to turn upside down...

He struggled involuntarily... The surrounding crowd burst into laughter, and then, as if they had just witnessed a ritual, they dispersed.

“Stop struggling…” You Yang sighed, trying to steady himself. “You’re so heavy…”

“Put me down!” Jingzhi struggled unwillingly. “What are you doing?”

“Taking you away. Only this way can we follow the rules of this island.” You Yang carried her, striding across the beach and through the chaotic crowd. “So, stop struggling. My strength, still recovering from a serious illness, can’t withstand your struggles. Now, I’ll carry you to our honeymoon.”

“Put me down, I’m dizzy,” Jingzhi pounded his back. “Put me down, I’ll go with you.”

“It’s better not to.” You Yang’s steps were noticeably unsteady. “Who knows if you won’t run away? This island is full of all sorts of people.”

“I won’t run away, I swear!”

“Hmm, have your vows ever worked before?” You Yang said thoughtfully. “You said you would wait for me to come back, but you didn’t…”

Jingzhi froze. You Yang didn’t seem to realize he had let something slip. Didn’t he say he couldn’t remember who he was? Didn’t he say… but just now he was complaining that she hadn’t waited for him back then.

Jingzhi froze, recalling the events surrounding You Yang's "amnesia." So, this unscrupulous man had been lying to her… He hadn't lost his memory at all?!

"Wait, don't rush off. You don't love me at all!" Jingzhi quickly adjusted her strategy. He was faking amnesia, wasn't he? Fine, she'd play along and see what he was up to.

"Yes, but aren't we pretending to be on our honeymoon?" You Yang muttered, "For your safety, you forgot?"

"Yes, I haven't forgotten." You Yang's shoulder was digging into her so much that speaking became difficult. "So, what's next?"

"See that ahead?" You Yang pointed to the moonlit beach. "Beyond that dune, there's a secluded cabin. We'll spend our honeymoon there."

"Put me down. No one's watching us now. I can walk myself," Jingzhi pleaded softly. "It's so uncomfortable carrying me like this."

"Okay," You Yang put her down. "But you're not wearing shoes."

“It’s okay…” Jingzhi tugged at his sleeve, and as he turned to face her, she stood on tiptoe and kissed his lips…

Chapter 81 The Contest (Part 1)

You Yang was stunned. Jingzhi had never kissed him first before. Could it be…?

He stiffly embraced Jingzhi, his voice hoarse: You’re kissing me?

Hmm? This is our honeymoon, isn’t it? Jingzhi smiled sweetly: “Then, kiss me…”

“Jingzhi…” You Yang’s gaze immediately became confused. Jingzhi was actually asking him to kiss her?

Under the silvery moonlight by the sea, Jingzhi seemed almost enveloped in a layer of holy light.

Jingzhi was actually very nervous inside. Her face burned red as You Yang’s kiss deepened.

Her gaze went over You Yang’s shoulder, towards the brightly lit party venue in the distance. The composure she thought she could maintain was almost about to collapse at any moment.

Being alone with You Yang under this cursed moonlight had already unsettled her. And if this man truly loved her deeply, and this really was their honeymoon...? They would be making love on the beach under the moonlight.

Why, why are you playing tricks on me?

As Jingzhi embraced You Yang's neck and kissed him on tiptoe, she kept thinking, could it be...? Does You Yang really love me?

Or is he still in love with that woman, and he's trying to give me a way out by feigning amnesia?

So, should I quietly walk away?

“Wait,” Jingzhi stopped him in a hoarse voice as he picked her up and placed her on the beach. “What are you going to do?”

“What else?” Youyang whispered in her ear. “What would a honeymooning couple do on this moonlit beach?”

“No???” Jingzhi gently pushed his chest. “Wait a minute.”

“Hmm?”

“I don’t want to change our relationship,” Jingzhi raised her chin, looking at Youyang who had his arms outstretched above her. “You see???? We’re really just putting on an act so people will think we’re on our honeymoon.”

“What did you say?” Youyang’s eyes widened in surprise. “You?????”

“Putting on an act,” Jingzhi poked his chest with her finger. “There was a dark shadow just now. I thought it was a pirate checkpoint, but alas????”

“Hmm?”

“It was a giant sea turtle???”

Youyang frowned, his expression turning from bright to gloomy. “Are you teasing me?”

“No,” Jingzhi was embarrassed by his defeated look. “Alright, alright, do you want to betray your Xiaoya?”

"Uh??????" You Yang rolled over and lay down: "Xiao Ya??????"

"Yes, Xiao Ya." Jing Zhi lay beside him, quietly gazing at the clear moonlight and stars: "When you were unconscious, you kept calling for her."

"Really?" You Yang frowned, turning his eyes to look at her: "What did I say?"

"Nothing, just some delirious talk from a fever." Jing Zhi quietly put her hands under her head: "Tell me, how did you meet her?"

"We were classmates," You Yang was drawn into his memories by her question: "To be precise, I was captivated by her back then."

"Oh? What was so captivating about her?"

"Probably because she was quite cheerful and lively?" You Yang nodded: "I think I was quite infatuated with her back then."

"Infatuated?" Jing Zhi also turned to look at him: "Not love?"

"Not love, just habit." You Yang sighed: Actually, every step she took to get close to me was very purposeful.

"And you? Did you approach her with an ulterior motive?"

"Me?" You Yang smiled bitterly. "Precisely because I had no ulterior motive... Let's not talk about her anymore, Jingzhi..."

"No, I'm very curious..." Jingzhi stubbornly refused to stop the conversation. "Because I was hired by her to have your child. Do you remember all of that?"

"Me... I don't remember." You Yang asked softly, "Aren't you afraid of encountering bad people?"

"What can I do if I'm afraid?"

Jingzhi sighed. "If I'm afraid and back down, how will I earn money? I don't want to live like those prostitutes... Besides, I can't borrow any money."

You Yang quietly pondered Jingzhi's words. "Then, you must have had a very difficult time?"

Jingzhi thought of the price she paid in the hospital. She widened her eyes and forced back tears. "Thankfully, thankfully I got the job I applied for on my first try."

You Yang grasped her wrist. "You hate that job?"

"No??????" Jingzhi clenched her small fists in his hand. "It's not that I hate it, it's just that I'm not used to it."

"Do you remember the few times we met?" You Yang asked tentatively, trying to find new evidence of her feelings in her answer.

Jingzhi was stunned for a moment, then gave an awkward, almost tearful laugh. "It's better not to recall those times, I can't remember them clearly."

She rolled over and got up, brushing the sand off her skirt and hair. "We have to look forward, right?"

"Yes," You Yang looked at her graceful figure with admiration. "I am looking forward."

Jingzhi blushed and realized that from his perspective, her already tattered skirt was useless. She simply sat down next to him. "Forget it, don't ask so many questions."

The moonlight shone on You Yang's face, which was covered by an eye patch, casting an inscrutable shadow. Jingzhi involuntarily reached out and took off his hat, and then the eye patch...???

The scar on You Yang's forehead, hidden in his hairline, became clear and shiny in the moonlight.

"Does it hurt?" Jingzhi's fingers trembled as she traced the scar.

"It doesn't hurt?" You Yang grasped her fingers. "It hasn't hurt for a long time, but...?"

He held Jingzhi's hand to his chest. "Here... it hurts here!"

Jingzhi's lips twitched. "What's wrong? Does it hurt here because you're thinking of your Xiaoya again?"

You Yang smiled bitterly. He knew it; Jingzhi couldn't bear to hear the word "Xiaoya" now. Perhaps his feigned amnesia, his attempt to provoke Jingzhi through Wu Yanya, had gone a little too far.

“These scars were from a car accident,” You Yang said softly, “and she had someone stage the accident.”

“Huh?” Jingzhi was stunned; she had never known this before. “How could this be?”

“I won’t say more,” You Yang closed his eyes, “I can only blame myself for being blind back then, for being too naive, and for dragging you into this mess.”

He gripped Jingzhi’s hand tightly: “Forgive me, please?”

“It doesn’t matter whether I forgive you or not.” Jingzhi pulled her hand away: “Anyway, you don’t remember. I got the money to save my mother’s life; actually, I should thank you more.”

“What did I do to hurt you?” You Yang asked tentatively, “Can you tell me?”

“No,” Jingzhi shook her head, “It’s better if you don’t remember; it’ll save us from awkwardness.”

“But I need to know!”

“Isn’t that unnecessary?”

“It’s very necessary!”

"What exactly do you want?" Jingzhi turned to look at him, her eyes flashing with pain. "What do you want me to do?"

"Everything," You Yang's eyes gleamed in the moonlight. "Everything...?"

"For the child?" Jingzhi asked softly. "You said it was for the child...?"

"Maybe at first it was for the child," You Yang sat up. "But now it's different. I want you to love me willingly, to become my wife. No more acting, no more excuses. I just want you."

"From when?" Jingzhi stared blankly at the coastline, the surging tide slowly rising.

"From the first moment I saw you, from the moment I... woke up in the hospital bed, the first moment I saw you."

Jingzhi's voice trailed off. "Before that, did you really forget me?"

"Yes...?"

Jingzhi was now certain. You Yang hadn't lost his memory at all!

Then why was he pretending? Was he playing a trick on her? What

if she went along with his lie about amnesia...?

"Okay??????" Jingzhi said softly, "Let's wipe the slate clean and not talk about it anymore, okay?"

For a long, long time, You Yang just lay there staring at her.

He slowly stood up, a pained expression filling his eyes. "What did you say? The past is the past?"

"Yeah, what else could I do?" Jingzhi gave him a confused look. "We only had an agreement, and it's been fulfilled. You don't owe me anything, and I don't owe you anything. Once we leave here, everything will be over."

"Is that what you thought?"

"Yes, and...?" Jingzhi picked up the two jade pendants hanging from her chest. "You might have forgotten about this too."

"These are my parents' token of love."

"Hmm, do you remember how I got these?"

"I forgot," You Yang frowned. "I don't want to know."

"It's said that I'm your mother, a child of unknown origin born to You Shiqun's wife."

You Yang interrupted her. "I just want to know why a forbidden relationship is unacceptable. If I want you, no one can stop me."

Jingzhi stared at him blankly. "You know I might be your biological sister, and you still haven't changed your mind?"

“Impossible,” You Yang continued. “When Mom was pregnant, Dad was in America, according to the timeline. And I’m not Mom’s biological child, so we’re not related by blood.”

Jingzhi suddenly felt very tired. Her throat tightened, and she wanted to run away, to hide. You Yang was only emphasizing that they weren’t related by blood, which wasn’t the answer she wanted to hear.

After this storm, she finally knew she loved him, always had, but he didn’t seem to love her, or perhaps, not enough?

You Yang seemed to be using his amnesia as an excuse to steal her love without any preparation.

So, she continued to ask, “What if we really were related by blood? What would our fate be?”

“No,” You Yang frowned at her question. “That won’t happen. Even if it were, as long as we don’t say anything… No, Squid is a smart child, it won’t happen.”

Jingzhi just stared at him calmly, without saying a word.

Yes, this hypothetical situation had been troubling Jingzhi for days. Now, just the hypothetical scenario she presented had him going wild.

"No way," You Yang murmured, "If he wasn't absolutely certain, why would Dad send that baby away the moment she was born?"

A silence that seemed to stretch for half a century followed, then You Yang gritted his teeth and suddenly grabbed her hand: "I don't care about anything else. After this storm, you'll be mine. Life is short, and I don't want to waste any more time with you."

Jingzhi was startled by his sudden outburst of savagery: "Wait, what do you mean?"

"It's simple, marriage!" You Yang's lips tightened into a cold, hard line: "Even if you die, I want you lying beside me."

"No!" Jingzhi retorted stubbornly: "You have no right to order me around."

"No?" You Yang pulled her close: "Try it."

"That only proves you're stronger than me," Jingzhi stared into his cold eyes: "Have you forgotten what you said when you were unconscious?"

"What did I say?" You Yang asked warily.

"You said you were in danger and wouldn't let me near you." Jingzhi's eyes blurred with tears. "Back then, I wanted nothing more than to die with you, but now...?"

"Heh...?" You Yang laughed hoarsely. "Now you want me to die alone?"

"Yes." Jingzhi bit her lip. "I hate being deceived, I hate being forced, I hate unreasonable men...?"

"You think that's the kind of man?" You Yang's tone was surprisingly gentle.

"Aren't you?"

I am... I am a man abandoned by my own mother, manipulated by my first love. You Yang's voice was low and self-deprecating in the night sky. "And the only woman I ever cared about, the only woman I ever loved, didn't love me back." "

No, I love you, I love you!"

Jingzhi repeated these words over and over in her heart, but...

Youyang couldn't hear her. He was already incoherent, overwhelmed by Jingzhi's hostility and resistance.

"You, no matter why you left me back then," he slowly pulled the stiff Jingzhi into his arms, "when I met you again in the bookstore, I knew this woman was mine, and I would get you at all costs."

"Why...?" Jingzhi asked him blankly, "Why me?"

"Just because of you... Don't you know? Before you came back, I never even looked at Squid properly?"

Jingzhi shook her head.

"Don't you know that after you left, I never looked at any other woman?"

Jingzhi shook her head.

"Don't you know that every time I accidentally hurt you, it hurts so much here?"

He grasped Jingzhi's hand and placed it over his heart: "Perhaps you think my love for you is unreasonable, but do you know that back then, in the darkness, before I saw your face, I didn't love that weak and helpless girl? I only pitied her. I loved the girl I met later, the one I thought was pregnant with someone else's child..." Jingzhi

shook her head, unable to speak. Tears soaked You Yang's clothes. She was afraid that if she spoke, she would reveal her secret of loving him too.

What was wrong with her? She had originally wanted to take revenge on him for deceiving her about her amnesia, but...

why, after hearing his heartfelt confession, could she not bear to punish him anymore?

Chapter 82 Cherishing

Jingzhi was held in You Yang's arms, wanting to struggle but sensitively noticing that his body temperature was still burning hot.

"You still have a fever," Jingzhi murmured almost complainingly, "Don't stand in this sea breeze."

"Oh no, do you know why I have a fever???" You Yang whispered in her ear, "Only you can cure this fever."

Jingzhi gritted her teeth and looked up at him: "Is this what you want?"

"Yes, I've waited for so long, so long that I've forgotten how we used to be???"

Jingzhi narrowed her eyes, took a step forward, and placed her palm flat on his chest: "What do you want?"

"To make love, I want to make love with you on this moonlit beach, all night long."

"If this is what you want???" Jingzhi's gaze returned to the distant campfire.

"Don't worry, those people won't come. Uncle has already ordered his men not to disturb our honeymoon."

Jingzhi sighed softly, burying her face in You Yang's chest. For some reason, she suddenly remembered the despair she felt when You Yang was unconscious on Shrimp Island.

She thought of the dead Burmese residents of the island; life seemed so fleeting. If, if she loved You Yang, and You Yang loved her, then why couldn't they give each other a chance?

Night had fallen, and on the pure white beach of Treasure Island, bathed in silvery moonlight,

Jingzhi and Youyang slowly removed their cumbersome clothes. Like two newborn infants, they lay naked on the warm, soft sand, Youyang holding her firmly beneath him with his burning arms.

How long had it been? How long had this longing lasted?

It seemed to have been constantly appearing in his dreams. Youyang almost wildly buried himself in Jingzhi's gentle sea, the waves slowly rising, the warm water almost touching their toes.

Who could have imagined that this warm seawater had transformed into a raging hurricane just days before, claiming the lives of so many innocent people?

Jingzhi sobbed. She had never experienced anything so beautiful. From the beginning, their sex had been filled with lies and deception, lust and violence. Never, never had she felt such a deep connection.

Was this the revelation that the sudden storm had given them? To cherish the happiness around them?

The waves, accompanied by the seagulls' cries, blended into a beautiful, eternal love song.

You Yang buried his face in the crook of Jingzhi's neck, embracing his woman tightly.

The words Jingzhi had cried before he lost consciousness echoed in his ears: "You won't die! I won't let you die, I won't allow you to die!" Jingzhi

sobbed; it was all so beautiful. Their bodies were intertwined, breathing heavily, as if that beautiful experience was the very meaning of life.

The moonlight, the beach, the waves—together they composed an eternal and ancient love song.

After the passion subsided, the two lay side by side on the warm sand, gazing at the beautiful night sky dotted with stars. Because the moonlight was bright, the stars were relatively sparse, but the beauty of the starry sky still captivated her.

Jingzhi knew that at this moment, they were like any other truly loving couple in the world; their love, like the moonlight, was so perfect.

But…? Was this truly forever?

When dawn broke, they would face the cruel reality—were they really siblings?

You Yang turned to look at her, pulling himself close to her chest. His hands gently traced the soft curves of her white arms and waist, then slid down...

"Jingzhi..." His voice was hoarse, filled with deep love for her: "I've never felt love so genuinely before, until today... until now, until we've been through life and death... Love me, give me your love."

Jingzhi smiled. Is love a thing?

Did he really want her to give him her love?

Her love had always been there, only ignored when he tried to take it.

In this world, how many people love each other without realizing it?

How many people believe love is about possession, not giving?

Must experiencing love, understanding love, be achieved only after such a struggle and contest of life and death?

How did he know about her love for him this time?

Jingzhi smiled, opening her arms to embrace You Yang like a child. In the moonlight, their intertwined young bodies shimmered with a lustrous, white jade-like sheen.

"How do you know I'll give you love?" she asked softly.

"Perhaps it was a mistake," Jingzhi said, a hint of melancholy in her voice. "From the moment you met me, it was a mistake."

"How so?"

"My appearance seems to have disrupted your life. If you hadn't met me, you would have married your Xiaoya long ago???"

"Try talking to me about Xiaoya again!" You Yang's tone was full of threat. "Even if I hadn't met you, I wouldn't have married her back then. Besides...????"

"Besides what?"

"Besides, we have a child now???" You Yang held her tighter. "No matter what happens, I will never let you leave again."

"But, if I never love you, you won't let me leave either?"

"I know I will make you fall in love with me!" His voice was full of confidence, and then he gently kissed her lips.

Jingzhi froze. She looked up and met You Yang's eyes. He was holding her, his gentle caresses making her body incredibly sensitive.

"I don't know if this is right," she said, her voice filled with melancholy. "Maybe our meeting was a mistake from the start."

You Yang looked up, his gaze hardening. "It won't be a mistake, Jingzhi. The luckiest thing in my life is meeting you."

Jingzhi's heart clenched at his words.

Yes, if she had previously assumed he didn't love her, now she was certain. You Yang's voice was filled with genuine, heartfelt love.

"I want you to marry me, even if something bad happens... I want to be with you, forever..." Jingzhi

didn't say anything; she simply held his head to her chest, tears welling in her eyes, which she didn't want him to see.

She didn't know what kind of sadness she felt after hearing his words.

She only knew that this time she would cherish Youyang with all her heart and marry him with her love.

"I also swear..." she whispered, "I will give you my love. I will always love you, I will always be by your side, until... you no longer love me."

"What did you say?" Youyang had been enjoying her words, but this last sentence made him frown suddenly.

"You still don't trust me?"

Jingzhi smiled: "I'm not saying that death doesn't diminish love, but stating a fact, which is also the wedding vow of European Gypsies—I will love you until you no longer love me."

"Okay, I accept this vow." Youyang kissed her: "Then I will love you forever!"

"Then so will I."

Jingzhi didn't know if this honest promise was in line with the times, but at that moment, they made a promise of mutual loyalty with their true hearts. In fact, every vow requires the sincerity of the person making the vow; otherwise, even the most eloquent words are useless.

On the silvery-white beach under the moonlight, the two of them seemed to return to their most primal state as man and woman, happily enjoying each other, without barriers, without taboos, everything so real, so pure.

When Jingzhi finally fell into a deep sleep, Youyang carried her back to the small wooden cabin. The night was still long.

Chapter 83 Sweet

Third Day, before the first rays of dawn touched the room, Jingzhi woke up.

She lay quietly in Youyang's arms. When did she fall asleep last night?

She only remembered being vaguely carried back to the cabin by Youyang, then he turned on hot water, and the two of them washed together. Under the ammonia showerhead, he entered her again…

When she got up, she held a beautiful new hope in her heart—she could feel the power of love.

How similar and yet how dissimilar this situation was to five years ago!

Five years ago, in the same darkness, in the same wooden cabin, they slept in each other's arms, yet their hearts were isolated and desolate.

Now, Jingzhi awoke in the dawn and saw Youyang lying beside her like a child, his arms possessively around her waist.

Looking out the cabin window, the sun rose slowly from the sea, its orange-red rays stretching from the distant edge of the ocean, bathing the entire room in a warm orange glow.

Jingzhi didn't move; she silently gazed at the sleeping Youyang. His handsome face was so real and somewhat fragile in the dawn light.

In the soft morning light, his skin had a healthy tan, his black hair radiated youthful health, and his long, thick eyelashes cast shadows on his eyelids.

She had just recovered from a serious illness and hadn't rested properly these past few days. And last night...? Jingzhi could see the tired, dark circles under his deep-set eyes.

This was the moment when You Yang was completely off guard. Seeing the utter exhaustion on his face, Jingzhi felt a pang of heartache.

Yet, even with such a weary face, she was still captivated by it all. She gazed at the soft lines of his face, softened by sleep, utterly mesmerized.

Undeniably, You Yang and You Shiqun, father and son, were both strikingly handsome men. At first glance, they looked very alike, but upon closer inspection, many differences were apparent.

During the summer when Jingzhi first met him, You Shiqun was a mature and steady middle-aged man. He initially treated Jingzhi with great care, even after becoming quite harsh towards her. Jingzhi's feelings towards him shifted from a faint liking to a deep fear, ultimately leading her to keep her distance.

And You Yang…? Her gaze shifted to You Yang's lips, those firmly clenched lips, seemingly carrying a hint of nonchalant mockery, or perhaps an invitation.

Jingzhi had never been afraid of You Yang, not even in his most furious moments…? She saw the white scar on his forehead, blending into his hairline, again.

She remembered the first time she saw it—the storm had just passed, and they were chatting idly, unable to imagine the child's whereabouts.

A sudden longing welled up within her, a longing to taste his lips. Last night, he…

Unable to resist, Jingzhi leaned in and quickly kissed him on the lips.

This was the first time Jingzhi had initiated a kiss since they became intimate—it was ironic, wasn't it? This was the first time she had ever kissed him.

And this spontaneous contact suddenly filled Jingzhi's heart with an almost wild desire. She longed… longed to actively seduce him.

Just like he had done to her, to entice her desire with gentle caresses, followed by a night of passionate lovemaking—just like last night. Jingzhi was startled by this thought.

What was wrong with her? How could she have such a thought? She desperately longed to trust him again, almost painfully. To be precise, the mere thought of You Yang holding her tightly sent a shiver of disbelief through her.

Was this still her?

Five years ago, when she left, she had vowed never to be controlled by a man again; she would be an independent woman. And now…?

Jingzhi sat up abruptly, a look of dejection on her face, cold tears streaming down her cheeks. “Calm down, calm down…” she whispered to herself, trying desperately to calm her breathing.

But it was all in vain.

Jingzhi recalled last night. What had she promised You Yang?

To love him until he no longer loved her.

But did he truly love her? Was his love for her more possessive or genuine affection?

No, no!!!

Jingzhi shook her head frantically. She was overthinking things again. After everything that had happened, shouldn't she have doubts?

"Hmm...?"

She heard a soft, low moan, then he moved slightly...

Jingzhi stared at him quietly. You Yang blinked a few times, as if the light had blinded him, then he seemed to sense someone beside him.

Like a suddenly alert lion, he abruptly opened his eyes and looked at her, whom he held in his arms. He narrowed his eyes...

Jingzhi's heart clenched. Oh no, why was he looking at her with that distant expression? Could it be...? Could it be that he had just woken up and had some new ideas in his mind?

Jingzhi's stomach churned. Please, no...

You Yang had grown a short, thick beard, which added to his untamed air—just like the role she had played yesterday—he was a lion that preyed on at will.

And now, his languid appearance after just waking up softened the hard lines of his face.

"I thought...?" He rolled over, trapping Jingzhi beneath him. "It's always been the boys who wake the girls with kisses. I never thought the world would change. I like this good morning kiss."

All the color rushed to Jingzhi's cheeks in an instant. "No... I... I didn't kiss you!"

"That's as true as 'there wasn't a storm just now,'" You Yang raised one eyebrow and chuckled softly. "Do you want me to help you remember?"

Another wave of embarrassment washed over Jingzhi. She turned her gaze elsewhere. Yes, there was no need to remember. She was in his arms right now—and naked.

“I really enjoyed our honeymoon,” You Yang whispered in her ear, “Could we…?”

“No!” Jingzhi almost screamed, “No, it’s broad daylight, and so many people might come looking for us, Squid…”

“Wait, wait…” You Yang hugged her tighter, “What are you thinking? I just wanted to say… honeymoon couples have the privilege of not eating breakfast.”

Jingzhi blushed, knowing that this wasn’t what he had intended to say at all.

You Shiqun sat in his luxuriously decorated office, it was already very late. He was very tired these past few days, but he still had to review the reports and contracts from the past few days, even though his mind wasn’t on them.

Over the years, he had delegated company affairs to You Yang, to the point that he had become unfamiliar with these numbers and forms.

He stared at the open folder in his hand, seemingly oblivious to the forms. He frowned, annoyed that his thoughts were constantly being occupied by You Yang and Jingzhi, who were far away in Myanmar.

This sudden tropical storm had disrupted his plans.

Just as he was lost in thought, the door clicked open softly, followed by the sound of steady footsteps.

"You're late," You Shiqun's voice was low.

"Only five minutes late," Tie Yikun's voice was gentle, "I think you won't mind that I found some more information."

"What information?"

"Jingzhi's hospital delivery record from five years ago, and You Yang's DNA test report with the child."

"What happened to those things?" You Shiqun didn't turn around.

“There’s a big problem in all this stuff,” Tie Yikun shrugged. “Can’t you see it?”

“What problem?” You Shiqun raised an eyebrow. “What did you see?”

“You and Jingzhi are both blood type A. She could be your biological daughter.”

“Don’t joke around.” You Shiqun suddenly stood up, almost knocking over a thick stack of files on the table. “I can’t have children???”

“But??? She was born to Lan’er.”

“That’s impossible too,” You Shiqun’s lips twisted. “Don’t say anything more. Back then, there was no IVF technology. It was impossible for her to have my child!

” “I have evidence,” Tie Yikun pulled a slightly worn passport from under his arm. “This passport is hers. Inside is a round-trip ticket to England. The dates on the ticket basically match the time she became pregnant.”

“England? What do you mean by that?”

“Well, in 1978, the world’s first IVF baby was born in England.”

“Shut up!” You Shiqun’s voice was low, but very intimidating. “What did you say? I don’t understand.” "

Okay?" Tie Yikun put the documents back into the file folder and tossed them across the table into You Shiqun's hands. "Take a look yourself. The core information isn't very detailed, but I've basically made a fairly clear deduction about her background."

Chapter 84 Astonishment

"Deduction?" You Shiqun sneered. "What's your deduction? The child Lan'er conceived behind my back was conceived through IVF? That's a really bizarre deduction."

"Me? When did I make a deduction?" Tie Yikun said in a low voice.

"Ha, a deduction?" You Shiqun picked up the passport. "Rather than saying she went for IVF, it's more like she went to meet her lover. England? Han Cheng was in England at the time. Never mind?"

You Shiqun raised his hand, stopping Tie Yikun from continuing. "Don't say any more. I have guests coming. You should go back first." "

But...?" Tie Yikun was about to say something when the door opened with a knock.

Both You Shiqun and Tie Yikun looked towards the doorway, and You Shiqun's eyes narrowed.

The woman who entered possessed an dignified appearance, yet also an innate sexiness. She seemed completely accustomed to her natural feminine charm, as confident and at ease as the designer clothes she wore.

"Mr. You?" she said, almost with aristocratic languor as she entered the room. "I am Ding Lei."

"Oh. A pleasure to meet you," You Shiqun politely rose to greet her, and Ding Lei extended her hand to shake his. "May I ask what brings you here, Ms. Ding?"

"Mr. You, it's difficult to explain over the phone. I came here specifically today..." Ding Lei glanced at Tie Yikun sitting beside her. "And this is...?"

"Attorney Tie, our Weng's legal advisor," You Shiqun introduced them. "Ms. Ding Lei, and Tie Yikun." "

Nice to meet you," Tie Yikun shook hands with Ding Lei, his eyes filled with undisguised admiration.

"Nice to meet you, but... Mr. You and I have something to discuss in detail," Ding Lei smiled, "Could you...?"

"Oh..." Tie Yikun glanced at her and then at You Shiqun, then tactfully left.

You Shiqun got up and returned to his desk. He had long ago realized that when facing a stranger with unclear intentions, silence was the best weapon.

Especially between strangers, silence would make the visitor uneasy, and then the other party would expose their weaknesses in their efforts to break the silence.

Ding Lei slowly sat down in the reception chair opposite him. Unlike those visitors who were frightened by You Shiqun's silence, Ding Lei was not a short-sighted, ignorant woman. She knew You Shiqun's weight.

"Why don't you speak?" You Shiqun leaned back in his chair.

Ding Lei stared at him cautiously, saying nothing. Clearly, she was determined to see who could remain silent longer.

"Ms. Ding," You Shiqun finally spoke, "my secretary told me you wouldn't explain the purpose of your visit."

"Because my reason for visiting is a very personal one," Ding Lei said, taking a cigarette from her small purse. "Is that alright?"

"Please," You Shiqun looked at her with a hint of curiosity. "Then may I ask what the personal reason is?" “

It’s simple,” Ding Lei stood up, walked a few steps to You Shiqun’s side, a smile still on her face. Then she raised her hand and slapped You Shiqun hard across the face.

*Smack!

* The crisp sound of the slap echoed in the empty space. Ding Lei’s slap was so powerful that a clear five-finger mark appeared on You Shiqun’s cheek.

You Shiqun narrowed his eyes. Even with his rich experience over the years, he rarely felt surprised by anything, but this woman’s performance left him utterly astonished.

“I don’t know what I did to deserve this slap?” You Shiqun slowly, deliberately took a neatly folded handkerchief from his pocket and wiped the burning area on his cheek.

“Miss Ding, even if I deserved this slap, you should at least know why, right?”

“It’s because you spread false information to trick Jingzhi into going to Myanmar!” "Her statement wasn't a question, but a statement: 'There's a tropical storm in Myanmar right now, killing hundreds of thousands of people. I can't contact her. You might have already killed Jingzhi.'"

"No, the news is quite the opposite," Ding Lei's question seemed to have amused him rather than angered him. "Jingzhi and my son are on their belated honeymoon. What? You want to see this?"

"No," Ding Lei replied, her breathing suddenly becoming rapid as You Shiqun smiled at her. "I investigated several people before finding you to be the mastermind who tricked Jingzhi into going to Myanmar, and I... I've become your accomplice."

"Accomplice?" You Shiqun answered slowly, suddenly standing up, startling Ding Lei into taking several steps back. "Believe me, if we're talking about accomplices, you're one of them."

Ding Lei froze. This You Shiqun was no ordinary person.

"You seem to have some prejudice against me?" You Shiqun walked forward step by step, while Ding Lei retreated step by step. "You were the one who told Jingzhi that news; I didn't force her."

"You didn't?" Ding Lei sneered. "Wasn't it you who forced her to sign that supplementary agreement back then?"

This woman seemed very close to Jingzhi. You Shiqun ruffled his hair. "You know about that agreement too?"

"Of course I know," Ding Lei frowned. "To be precise, I've been regretting it all along. I was the one who introduced Jingzhi to that surrogacy agency. I ruined her??????"

"Whether you ruined her or not is still hard to say," You Shiqun frowned slightly, forcing her thoughts back to the meeting in front of her. "Ms. Ding, so what is your purpose in coming here?"

"I didn't just come to slap you." Ding Lei's tone remained aggressive. "Give me Jingzhi's contact information right now. Do you know how worried her family is?"

You Shiqun stood there, coldly silent, seemingly waiting for her to continue her long-winded speech.

"Are you finished?" he asked coldly when she stopped talking.

“That’s all,” Ding Lei said, raising her hand. “Give me her phone number.”

“No,” You Shiqun said casually, staring at her tightly pressed lips. “The lines are down.”

Ding Lei took a step back, slightly nervous, and met his gaze.

"Then how can I know she's safe?"

You Shiqun's nonchalant attitude, which focused solely on the matter at hand, infuriated her. Ding Lei was also angry: "Are you kidding me? Do you think I can't see that you're also interested in Jingzhi? This guy is really strange, actually having feelings for his son's woman."

You Shiqun frowned: "Watch your words, Miss Ding. Slandering others is a crime."

"Huh????" Ding Lei shook her head: "Anyone with eyes could have guessed it after that charity auction. You want her, you want to possess her by any means necessary. I really don't understand why Jingzhi can't see this?"

"Shut up!" You Shiqun suddenly stepped forward, grabbed her shoulders and shook her: "You're lying! How could I??? How could I have any thoughts about a child who's almost the same age as my daughter?"

"You don't? Really don't?"

You Shiqun suddenly let go of her and turned around. He was breathing heavily, struggling to control himself: "You're right, I want her, but... I... I can't be...?"

"Is that why you suddenly left Myanmar and returned home?" Ding Lei suddenly asked curiously, "So you truly want to let them be together?"

"Yes," You Shiqun's tone was filled with self-mockery, "And now, the situation is even more complicated."

Ding Lei looked at him calmly: "No matter how complicated, I just want you to promise one thing—to make Jingzhi happier."

"Do your best," You Shiqun murmured softly, "If she's happy, my son will be happy too, right?"

Chapter 85 Happiness

Happy people are always alike, but each is different.

Jingzhi didn't know where she had heard this saying before, but she truly felt it deeply.

When she and her family struggled on the poverty line, the pain and despair were something many people couldn't understand.

Back then, she was treated as a tool for procreation, without dignity, without self...

But now, now she felt extremely happy, her honeymoon, her honeymoon with You Yang.

Every day, the two of them sweetly played with their child at the beach, building sandcastles, collecting seashells, scaring away sea turtles, and letting the sun tan their skin to a wheat color.

Every night, they slept in each other's arms. Even without passionate lovemaking, that quiet embrace truly brought peace and tranquility to their hearts.

Happiness, the feeling of happiness, was it really just inner peace, a stable life? No suspicion, no hurt, all disputes could be resolved with a kiss.

While Jingzhi felt happiness, she would always wake up in the middle of the night, always having a terrible nightmare—You Yang was her brother, her half-brother.

Then she would get up, covered in sweat, and go to the bathroom to shower.

She had always believed in love, even though she had never truly felt it—the true love she sincerely longed for in her heart was one where, in poverty, health, and sickness, lovers would never abandon each other.

And their love, after that tropical storm, seemed to have truly withstood the test.

On a lazy afternoon by the sea, Squid, with its short legs, ran out of Jingzhi and the others' cabin, with You Yang in hot pursuit. Jingzhi could hear Squid's screams, a mixture of fear and excitement, from afar.

Jingzhi shielded her eyes from the glaring sunlight, watching You Yang, his clothes disheveled and his face covered in stubble, chasing closely behind Squid, almost catching him.

"Help! Mommy~~~~~~~" Squid cried, using his nimble little body to play hide-and-seek with You Yang: "Daddy

's so mean! I showed him the little crab, and he wanted to spank me??????" "Little crab?" You Yang frowned, but his eyes sparkled with laughter. He finally scooped up Squid and held him high in the air: "That crab was as big as my palm! If I hadn't dodged quickly, my nose would have been pinched."

Squid giggled: "I specially made that for Daddy???"

Jingzhi smiled. Squid was wearing a small t-shirt with angel wings sewn on, but You Yang hadn't noticed that he also had a pair of angel wings on his back???

They were two angel t-shirts, one big and one small. Squid's was the one Jingzhi had just put on him, while You Yang's was sewn onto the back of his t-shirt while he was asleep.

A father and son like angels??? Yu

Yang lifted the small carp and tossed it into the air. The child's giggles made Jingzhi smile.

"Alright, alright! Be good and stop making noise!" Jingzhi grabbed a towel and ran over to wipe the sweat from the sweaty father and son. "Look at you, all covered in sweat."

Yu Yang hoisted the squid onto his shoulder. Their eyes met over the child. This feeling... it was as if the three of them had been living this sweet life together for many years, especially Jingzhi, who had long since become like a nagging mother.

"Hi~~~~~~~~~~" From afar, Han Cheng's loud voice attracted Jingzhi and Yu Yang's attention. They turned around and saw the Emerald Ship returning to port in the bay. Han Cheng was standing on the dock waving at them, seemingly calling them over.

"Why is Uncle calling us?" You Yang looked into the distance, puzzled. Han Cheng hadn't bothered his family these past few days; the three of them had been living a very comfortable life, and in the evenings, Aunt Wu would even pick up Squid.

"I don't know???" Jingzhi also looked at the Emerald. Watching the beautiful ship slowly dock, she wondered, "That merchant ship they hijacked seems to have been sold?"

"Maybe." You Yang watched Han Cheng waving his arms. "He seems very eager for us to come over."

"Yes, then you go ahead, I won't go." Jingzhi smiled, though she was still afraid of the pirates.

"Alright, yes sir!" You Yang put Squid down. "Let's go see what Grandpa Pirate brought us."

"Okay!" Squid hopped and skipped after You Yang.

The weather turned gloomy, the wind at the sea picked up, and You Yang walked forward with his head down, braving the howling wind. Squid followed him, mimicking his movements.

Jingzhi stood there, watching the two figures, one tall and one small. A warm feeling welled up in her heart from the close father-son bond. Yes, she cherished this feeling.

In an instant, a sense of satisfaction washed over her. The past two weeks on Treasure Island had been the happiest time of her life. She could feel her love and attachment to Youyang growing stronger with each passing day.

Every day, every night, they grew closer.

This closeness wasn't just physical; they had indeed made love frequently these past few days, sometimes passionate, sometimes tender, but the only thing that truly touched her heart was the way he loved her.

When Youyang spoke to Jingzhi, a subtle tenderness began to appear in his voice, and every unintentional touch he gave her felt like a comfort.

Jingzhi returned to the cabin to prepare lunch. As she set the table, her gaze swept over the cupboard in the middle of the room, and she blushed, recalling the intimate scene on the blanket in front of the fireplace the previous night—a scene that made her blush with embarrassment.

Jingzhi cupped her burning cheeks, completely unaware of the happy smile spreading across her face.

These past few days, she had often noticed You Yang stealing glances at her with longing eyes, a discovery that made her involuntarily proud; he truly loved her.

The cabin door was flung open, followed by the noisy voices of You Yang and his son, Squid: "So thirsty! Where's the water?"

Jingzhi turned around and saw You Yang giving her a mysterious smile. He took the herbal tea Jingzhi offered, sipped it large, then bent down, grabbed Squid's small body, who was standing behind Jingzhi, and lifted him up.

"Look, Mom, look!" Finally getting his mother's attention, Squid shouted triumphantly, holding up a large conch shell. "I won it from Grandpa Pirate!"

"Good boy, great job." Jingzhi gently kissed Squid on the forehead, but her gaze was fixed on Youyang—she suddenly realized how strange Youyang's expression was. He was smiling, but the smile didn't reach the depths of his eyes.

Squid wriggled in his arms. "Mommy, Mommy, let me go! I want to go play with Grandpa Pirate again!"

"Go on, my little pirate." Youyang put Squid down again and slapped his little bottom.

"What are you doing? Mommy, I want to be a pirate too!" Jingzhi's gaze shifted from Youyang's face to Squid, the self-proclaimed little pirate proudly announcing his arrival as he dashed out of the cabin.

"I don't know whether I should be happy or trembling with fear?" Jingzhi gave Youyang a smile; he was in big trouble. His child was going to be a pirate.

"Let him be," You Yang waved his hand, feigning impatience. "We're leaving tomorrow, we can leave him with Grandpa Pirate."

"No way!" Squid, who had been hiding outside the door, screamed and rushed into the room, throwing herself into Jingzhi's arms.

Jingzhi hugged Squid, but her gaze never left You Yang. He must be hiding something from her. What was wrong with him?

Chapter 86:

What's Wrong with Hiding?

Jingzhi questioned You Yang with her eyes, and now she saw the answer in them.

But there was nothing...?

You Yang smiled as he watched Squid cling to Jingzhi's leg, acting coquettishly, but his gaze was thoughtful, calm, and closed off.

From their first meeting years ago, You Yang had always given her the impression of being immature, or rather, impulsive.

After so many years of separation, their first encounter was marked by You Yang's coercive methods, forcing her to submit. Therefore, Jingzhi always felt a strong sense of resistance towards him.

But after spending so many days together, Jingzhi discovered that Youyang wasn't as impatient and immature as he appeared. To be precise, after years of experience, Youyang's personality had become much more composed.

In fact, unless it involved Jingzhi, he rarely reacted strongly.

Jingzhi recalled that every time Youyang lost control, it seemed to be because of her?

But now, Youyang seemed determined to hide something. Had he heard some news on the Emerald Ship?

"What's wrong?" Jingzhi stepped forward, looking at him with worry.

"Nothing," Youyang lowered his head and patted Squid's head: "Hurry up, I think I heard Mom calling you..."

"Oh?" Squid seemed to remember something and hurriedly ran out of the cabin.

Then only Youyang and Jingzhi remained inside.

"What's wrong?" Jingzhi asked him again, but Youyang shook his head, refusing to speak.

He simply stepped forward and hugged her with almost savage strength.

"Jingzhi, do you remember last night?" he whispered hoarsely in her ear.

Jingzhi blushed, remembering the feeling of lying naked in his arms last night...

She clearly recalled the feeling of him holding her, kissing her, caressing her; they were on the cushions in front of the fireplace, offering themselves to each other, again and again...

"What's wrong?" Jingzhi felt confused by his almost desperate embrace.

Ever since he came back with Squid, his expression had been off.

Compared to those days when they were trapped in the dark little house, Jingzhi could instinctively sense his desire, but his stiff arms confused her; she couldn't decide how to react.

Jingzhi looked up, gazing at his expression.

You Yang's expression was now stiff and uneasy, nothing like the man who had once held her in his arms, melting her with passionate kisses.

To be precise, Jingzhi was almost driven to the brink of collapse by the eerie and unsettling atmosphere. She didn't want to see his inscrutable expression.

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing," You Yang tried to smile, his cold fingers tracing her soft face. "How about you and Squid set off back home tomorrow?"

"Back home?" Jingzhi murmured, confused. Her panicked gaze searched You Yang's face. "Has something happened back home? Your father...?"

"Don't ask. You'll go home tomorrow." You Yang ended the conversation with a brief kiss. "There's a disaster in Myanmar right now, the whole country is doing disaster relief. Uncle is busy using his Emerald Ship to transport supplies to refugees. We shouldn't trouble him anymore."

"Emerald Ship...? Transporting relief supplies?" Jingzhi repeated blankly. "Isn't it a pirate ship?"

"Yes, that's normal times. These are extraordinary times." You Yang answered almost casually.

Jingzhi could tell that You Yang seemed to be pondering a serious question. Perhaps...? After he suggested going home, many substantial questions would arise, such as whether the two of them should get married.

Although they already had a child, their relationship seemed to have progressed too quickly.

Moreover, the chasm between them was so unique.

However, Jingzhi knew in her heart that after this great storm, nothing could stop her from confirming her feelings for Youyang.

In fact, Jingzhi had never been so certain in her life—she loved Youyang so much.

Especially during the storm, when he saved her life, there was a moment when Jingzhi thought they would both die—die on a strange tropical island.

At that time, when Youyang was unconscious, she could feel the helplessness of life, and only his unconscious state could give Jingzhi a sense of security.

During the days he was unconscious, Jingzhi lived in a state of uncontrollable fear and vulnerability. The still, unconscious Youyang had brought her a sense of security.

But now, this happiness had come too quickly?

So when Youyang looked at her with that shifty expression and told her they were leaving, Jingzhi's first reaction was that Youyang wanted to get rid of her.

Could it be...? Jingzhi suddenly felt nauseous—had Youyang realized that when they returned to the civilized world, their relationship would also end?

She suddenly didn't want to hear what he was going to say next; she was afraid he would tell her that it was all a mistake...?

This terrible emotion suddenly overwhelmed her thoughts, so much so that she didn't hear what Youyang said next.

"We can't get married before we return home."

Jingzhi's ears were ringing; she had misheard him as—"We can't get married."

"Oh~~~~~~" She staggered out of his embrace, her gaze unfocused. "It's okay. I don't mind."

"Really? I'm glad you understand?" You Yang whispered in her ear, "I was afraid you wouldn't understand. I just spoke to Dad on the Emerald Ship."

"What did you say?" Jingzhi murmured.

You Yang didn't answer, but continued, "Uncle has already arranged your route back to China. It's a very special time now, all flights are canceled, you can only return via a third country."

"Wait, you? You just said 'you'?"

"Yes, I can't leave yet, I have some things to do..." You Yang avoided her gaze. "So you should pack your clothes quickly."

Some things to do?

What could You Yang have to do?

Jingzhi listened blankly to his departing footsteps, staring blankly out the window for a long time.

She tried to convince herself that this ending was for the best.

They didn't get married, they broke up peacefully, but after such a profound love, the tearing wound was too deep. Even if something good happened in the future, it wouldn't be enough to heal it.

Jingzhi almost hysterically wanted to run out of the room and catch up with Youyang. She wanted to cry, she wanted to scream, she wanted to…

She didn't want him to leave!

But would these struggles be of any use?

Youyang had clearly told her that he wouldn't leave for the time being, yet he was in such a hurry to send her away. Was there even a need to ask why?

Jingzhi suppressed her self-pity and sorrow. She had to try to pull herself together and think positively—Youyang really had no obligation to marry her. Youyang

strode out of the cabin. Hancheng was waiting outside: "Did you talk to her?"

"I told her to go back to China first," Youyang glanced back at the cabin: "She didn't seem too happy, but she didn't ask any more questions."

"You didn't tell her what you were going to do?" Han Cheng shook his head. "Won't she misunderstand?"

"I'd rather she misunderstand than tell her???" You Yang gritted his teeth. "Are you really sure you can find her?"

"Yes, this tsunami seems to have driven her out of her comfort zone. She's reappeared in Yangon." Han Cheng smiled. "I can take you to see her, but be careful not to call her 'Mom' when you enter. Call her 'Beautiful Miss' or 'Sister,' it's fine."

"Hmph," You Yang said softly, "I don't have a mother. I only know that my mother is dead."

Chapter 87 Injured

Jingzhi was told that she would be sent away the next day, and You Yang hadn't returned since leaving the cabin. She tossed and turned all night, unable to sleep well.

She didn't know what You Yang was planning, but—

the large bed in the cabin was sturdy and comfortable, but without You Yang, even the blankets seemed cold. Jingzhi wrapped herself tightly in the blankets at night, but she couldn't resist the feeling of cold loneliness.

Squid was taken away by Aunt Wu; otherwise, perhaps it would be better for Jingzhi to hold the child?

Jingzhi curled up in the blankets, shivering uncontrollably.

It felt as if she were not on a tropical island but in the same cold wooden house she had lived in five years ago. Even the blanket she had found in the closet couldn't bring her any warmth. Five years ago, that coldness had melted away in You Yang's warm embrace, but what about this time?

If You Yang was determined to close his heart, she might not be able to break through that barrier at all. Jingzhi knew that her self-pity was ridiculous, but she just couldn't control herself.

Half-asleep, a strange nightmare tormented her like a demon.

This half-asleep state continued until dawn. The dim light shone into the room through the curtains, and Jingzhi finally escaped the torment of her dream and fell asleep peacefully.

When she woke up, it must have been quite late. She wondered why no one had come to wake her up. When she drew back the curtains, she realized—the sky outside was overcast, as if brewing an impending storm.

Then, she heard You Yang's deep voice coming from the outer living room. He was speaking rapidly, seemingly very angry. "I'm stuck here because of this awful weather, so I can't go to Yangon or anywhere else."

Jingzhi didn't hear what he said. She listened quietly for a while longer, then deduced that You Yang was on the phone.

A phone?

It seemed Han Cheng had said—there are no phones here?

Jingzhi jumped out of bed, her feet landing on the soft carpet. She shouldn't be eavesdropping, but she couldn't resist.

“Damn it, if you have to consider whether every decision you make will anger my father, then what do you think I’m paying you to do? Your boss is me, not him—” You

Yang’s voice was rapid and impatient, like a bullet: “Believe me, if you can’t handle this independently, I think you should start paying attention to job postings in the newspaper.”

Through the crack in the door, Jingzhi could see You Yang pacing anxiously in the room. He listened carefully to the explanation on the other end of the phone, and then he continued, “Don’t talk to me about money. If it’s about money, then there’s no need to worry. Yes, I’ve made it clear, you must get this done.”

Jingzhi listened quietly, careful not to make a sound. Her impression of You Yang had always been completely different from what she saw now. The current You Yang, to be honest, reminded her of You Shiqun.

The current You Yang’s tone on the phone was icy; Jingzhi could sense that this was also his most dangerous moment at work.

As if hearing Jingzhi's voice behind the door, You Yang turned around and watched as Jingzhi pushed open the door and came out, holding a phone in her hand.

"Okay, let's stop here for now," You Yang said calmly, then turned off the phone.

"You—" Jingzhi stared at the phone in his hand: "Didn't you say you had something to do?"

"I heard there's going to be a tropical storm," You Yang turned around casually: "So all the trips are canceled. We'll go back to China after the storm ends."

You Yang looked at Jingzhi's slightly swollen eyes: "You didn't sleep well?"

"Yeah," Jingzhi looked at You Yang with a hint of curiosity: "So what is it you need to do?"

"I want to find someone, but unfortunately—" You Yang looked away: "But I'll have her come to me herself, so don't ask anymore."

Just one sentence, but it ended their conversation, plunging them into an awkward silence.

Jingzhi looked up in confusion. You Yang stood in front of her, his expression calm, but the heat in his eyes burned her.

"You—did you miss me last night?" You Yang grasped her shoulders, his warm breath carrying a faint scent of alcohol.

“You’re drunk.” Jingzhi quietly looked up at him. “What did you do last night?”

“Ha—” Youyang smiled. “Smelling of alcohol means you’re drunk? Your logic is hilarious.”

“You went drinking with those people?” Jingzhi placed her hand on his chest. “Tell me, is that right?”

“Yes, not only did I drink with them—” Youyang embraced Jingzhi and sat down on the sofa beside her. “I also learned from those sailors—about my mother’s beautiful deeds—”

“Your mother?”

“Yes, my mother—” Youyang’s tone was still clear and organized, but his gaze was indeed vacant. “They and she are—good friends.”

Jingzhi didn’t comment on this statement, but struggled a little in his embrace. “Why were you talking about her?”

“I couldn’t help it,” Youyang smiled. “You know, they’re all nostalgic people.”

Jingzhi frowned, unsure of what Youyang was talking about, but she recalled what Hancheng had said: Youyang’s biological mother didn’t seem to be very careful in her daily life. Could it be that Youyang had been provoked? But his tone was perfectly normal when he called his subordinates just now.

“Jingzhi—” You Yang suddenly hugged her, burying his head in her neck: “Hold me tight, tell me you won’t leave me.”

The deep hurt in his voice shocked Jingzhi. He remained buried in her arms for a long time, and Jingzhi seemed to feel the dampness on her neck—was he crying?

Chapter 88

What is a Scarred Mother?

A mother is a child’s only support in this world. A child may not have a father, but—without a mother—

Jingzhi hugged You Yang tightly, letting him cry like a child against her neck.

What kind of person was You Yang’s biological mother, whom she had never met?

“Do you know, Jingzhi—” You Yang murmured: “Back then, she used me to exchange for money with Dad.”

“Used you—” Jingzhi hesitated: “Exchanged for money?”

“Yes—”

“Your mother—she sold you to your father?”

Jingzhi could feel You Yang’s arms tightening around her. In fact, Jingzhi had noticed this five years ago, and he had always tried to avoid any behavior that showed vulnerability.

Five years ago, he took her again and again in the darkness, but never touched her lips.

Even these days, when they were so intimate and at ease, he always took the lead, never showing weakness.

Perhaps, the reason he didn't show weakness was because he also had a vulnerable side?

And now, at this moment, he was indeed showing her weakness through his actions, vulnerablely seeking emotional support in her arms.

And this support was especially important at this moment; at this moment, he needed to be loved more than anyone Jingzhi had ever seen, but she wasn't sure if he could tolerate admitting that he needed to be loved.

"Tell me—" Jingzhi grabbed his shoulders: "Tell me the whole story, how exactly did she sell you to your father?"

You Yang's lips were tightly pressed together, his body stiffening.

Jingzhi suddenly remembered something: "Why do you think I left the child for money? Why?"

You Yang seemed stunned by her question; his head jerked back, and Jingzhi could see his distorted face and his pupils contracting in surprise.

"No—" he murmured, trying to pull himself out of her embrace, but Jingzhi held him tightly, gently yet firmly.

You Yang struggled, and struggled again—

but Jingzhi wouldn't let go.

“Don’t force me—” You Yang instinctively closed his eyes, as if instinctively refusing to recall, but—Jing Zhi firmly wouldn’t let him avoid it: “Look at me—You Yang!”

Jing Zhi cupped his face: “Look at me—tell me, is it because the thing about me abandoning the squid is so similar to the thing about you being abandoned by your mother back then that you hate me so much? Could it be—could it be that I reminded you of her?”

“No—” You Yang groaned, shaking his head, his eyes filled with pain: “You won’t make me think of her—no one in this world is like her—she—”

You Yang’s gaze became hazy, “The her in my memory is no longer a concrete form, but has become blurred with the passage of time. Those remaining memories are actually limited to the strong scent of perfume, and—a pitifully few hugs.”

As You Yang spoke, he tightened his grip on Jing Zhi’s wrist, so much so that her wrist turned purple without her realizing it, and that blurry memory surged towards him bit by bit.

Yes, it had indeed been too long, so long that You Yang thought he had forgotten. But—

he had never tried to talk to anyone about that memory—that nightmarish experience that once belonged to a child. To be precise, the wound was too deep; even if it appeared to have healed on the surface—even if the scar wasn't visible—the scar was still there.

"She threw me out onto the street," You Yang finally managed to utter, his lips trembling, unable to say another word.

"She—why—"

You Yang closed his eyes, not seeing the shock on Jingzhi's face or the tears welling in her eyes. He buried his head in her chest, their bodies entangled on the sofa, his embrace savage and imprisoning, as if he were grasping at her lifeline in that moment.

"Did she leave you in front of your father's company?" Jingzhi asked softly.

"No," You Yang smiled sarcastically. He released her, seemingly wanting to push Jingzhi away, but he hesitated, then pulled her back into his arms.

Jingzhi could feel his hesitation; he needed appropriate distance, yet at this moment, he didn't want to be alone.

“I was five years old then, maybe? About the size of a squid now.” You Yang’s voice was low. “I remember she led me to the crowded street, and then let go of my hand—”

“No—” Jingzhi repeated the meaningless words blankly, her throat choked, his image before her blurred, tears stinging her eyes. “Could she—could she have missed? Could you have missed?”

“Believe me,” You Yang’s lips curved into a sarcastic smile. “Many people say the same thing, but unfortunately—unfortunately, I’m not a fool. I wanted to catch her, but unfortunately, her skirt was too short for me to reach.”

At that moment, Jingzhi was willing to give up everything she had, as long as he stopped talking.

But she couldn’t. Once he started, everything was out of control!

You Yang rolled off the sofa and strode to the bar in the corner of the room: "She found me annoying, she never wanted to see me again, so—she simply threw me out onto the street."

Jingzhi's teeth chattered: "No, no, that won't happen."

"Won't? Why not?" You Yang held up the amber liquid in the crystal glass in his hand: "You think—only naive girls like you exist on these stone steps? You think—you think there's nothing but love?"

"You Yang, please stop talking."

"Why don't you stop talking?" You Yang seemed to be out of control, rambling on and on: "She had already received the huge check from Dad, but she told him I was lost. She just left me in the crowd, without candy, without even a lie—"

"You Yang—"

"Hmm—" You Yang laughed hysterically: "She only told me to find Dad myself, saying that taking care of a child is too much trouble." I asked her then—who is my dad?

"You Yang—"

"You know what she said—" You Yang chuckled coldly: "She said she didn't know, but she also told me to walk five blocks by myself, and if I was lucky, I would find the You Group building."

"You went to find Dad yourself?"

"Hmm—" You Yang sneered: "Me, a five-year-old child, in the cold of January, alone, across five blocks, to find the You Group building."

Jingzhi suddenly had an impulse—if she saw that woman, she would definitely—she would definitely do something?

She would definitely slap her hard across the face, for she would disregard the life of her own flesh and blood for her.

“Now I understand,” You Yang’s tone was soft and feminine. “I was drinking with those pirates, and I discovered that every one of these older men had once been very close to my mother. I suddenly realized something.”

“Understood what?” Jingzhi looked at him, slightly confused.

“Back then, I thought I loved Wu Yanya, but subconsciously I felt they were very similar—equally beautiful, equally ruthless, equally lacking in self-respect.”

Jingzhi’s eyes filled with tears. “What good is thinking about this now?”

“It’s useful,” You Yang’s thoughtful gaze fixed on the overcast sky outside the window. “It really is useful.”

He suddenly moved, strode over, and picked Jingzhi up. “Let’s go back to bed. When the sky clears—she’ll be here.”

“Him? Who is he?”

“My birth mother—” You Yang carried Jingzhi down onto the large bed, then pressed his body against hers. “You might not like her, but—I have to see her before I leave.”

“Ugh—” Jingzhi could feel his gaze gradually becoming hazy. Finally, he had control of his mind, and he kissed her almost wildly.

After sensing Jingzhi's struggle, he slightly loosened his grip on her, but continued his relentless assault: "Give it to me, give yourself to me—you are Jingzhi, not Xiaoya—you know? Xiaoya's first time was with me—"

"You Yang—" Jingzhi pushed against his chest in frustration: "You're hurting me." She didn't want to hear about Xiaoya.

"In my arms, I discovered you're not a virgin!" His voice was like thunder outside the window, making Jingzhi's eyes widen.

But his next words filled her eyes with tears: "But, believe me—" he murmured indistinctly in her ear: "Even if you've had countless men, I still think you're much more noble than them."

Chapter Eight or Nine

: Turning Point A cold wind swept across the suspended floor of the cabin, seeping into the gaps between Jingzhi's bare toes. This cabin, built on the principle of moisture insulation, was suspended like many tropical houses.

The raging wind and rain outside the window seemed to have calmed down a bit. Jingzhi turned to look at You Yang, who was fast asleep on the sofa. He had talked too much in his drunkenness last night, and now he was finally sleeping peacefully. Jingzhi sighed, walked barefoot to the window, and peered out at the gloomy coastline.

The rising sun finally pierced through the layers of dark clouds, slowly painting a red cloud on the horizon. The weather seemed to be clearing up soon. Jingzhi pressed her forehead against the windowpane. In the distance, she could see a ship approaching the dock. You Yang had said his birth mother would come?

All of this became a question. Jingzhi stared at the large ship that was gradually approaching the shore in the wind and waves, wondering what that ship represented. Was it another target of Hancheng's plunder, or another pirate ship? Or was it the ferry carrying You Yang's birth mother?

What would that woman look like? What would she look like? And after so many years of separation between mother and son, would she have become more like a mother? But then, the sudden sound of gunfire shattered Jingzhi's fantasies. Could that large ship be a warship?

Jingzhi stared blankly as the Emerald, docked at the pier, was hit by cannon fire. Although not fatal, the Emerald's flagpole and the flag of a Central African country fluttering in the wind were knocked down. This attack was, at best, a warning.

The sound of gunfire startled Youyang. He opened his eyes abruptly, his vision momentarily unfocused (his eyes were blocked), and then he heard a second cannon shot.

This second shell didn't hit the Emerald, but instead struck the pier, instantly turning the small dock into a pile of rubble and wood.

"What happened? Could it be another group of pirates?" Youyang rushed to the window and pressed down on Jingzhi's frail body.

“I don’t know,” Jingzhi said worriedly, gripping Youyang’s hand tightly. “I have to go find Squid right away. He and Aunt Wu…” “No, you mustn’t go…” Youyang said sternly, stopping her. “I’ll go!” “No, you can’t go.”

“What a joke! If I can’t go, who can?” Youyang pulled her and pushed her back onto the sofa. “Be good, I’ll be right back.”

“But…” Jingzhi watched him stride out of the room, seeing that the Emerald had also returned fire, but the returned cannonballs seemed to have lost their aim, only creating huge waves at the stern of the ship.

Youyang strode towards the wooden house where Squid and Aunt Wu lived not far ahead. On the way, he encountered Aunt Wu, who was carrying Squid and stumbling through the water. He arranged for Aunt Wu to carry Squid and Jingzhi to meet them, while he himself ran towards the dock. Along the way, Youyang encountered many sailors. Everyone’s houses had been shaken by the cannon fire, but these people didn’t seem to take this huge intruder seriously. They all stood in front of their houses, gesturing and talking.

Most of them spoke Burmese, interspersed with English—because some of the sailors were mercenaries from the Americas and Europe. “What’s going on?” You Yang stopped a sailor who spoke Chinese. “Oh, that’s the Cat’s Eye. They always make such a fuss when they come here.” “The Cat’s Eye?” You Yang frowned.

“Hey, the captain’s old flame’s ship, don’t you know?” The sailor shrugged, trying to walk away, but You Yang grabbed him. “Damn it! What is this Cat’s Eye?”

“It’s a pirate ship too, but…” The sailor squinted, gazing into the distance, “But today the Cat’s Eye’s firepower isn’t very concentrated. Maybe it

has another purpose?” “Whatever its purpose,” You Yang shouted, trying to overcome the booming cannons, “Go tell your captain!” The crewman shifted uneasily, seemingly uneasy about what he was about to tell You Yang. "The captain isn't here." "What? Where did your captain go?" "I don't know..." You Yang was exasperated. He turned his head and watched the large ship destroy the dock and block the Emerald's path. "Then tell me, what was the purpose of the Cat's Eye's sneak attack while your captain was away?"

"It's simple, they've been coveting Treasure Island for a long time." The crew member recounted the story of the feud between the Cat's Eye and the Emerald to You Yang.

At the same time, on the other side of the island, a small boat docked, and a well-equipped squad, taking advantage of everyone's attention being drawn to the dock, sneaked onto the island... and their target was Jingzhi, Wu Ma, and Squid's little cabin.

When You Yang and the pirate crew watched the troublemaking Cat's Eye turn and sail away, they realized something was wrong.

Treasure Island is a long, narrow island of about 5 square kilometers. Jingzhi and her companions' cabin was originally built in a secluded spot at the back of the island, but this time their plan backfired!

Jingzhi herself couldn't believe that after You Yang left, they would be taken hostage by a group of strangers. These people didn't seem to have any ill intentions, yet they still dragged Jingzhi, Wu Ma, and their child, Squid, onto the Cat's Eye.

Chapter Ninety: Cat's Eye.

"Alright, let's try again." A woman's slightly mocking voice echoed in the cabin: "Tell us who's on Treasure Island now? Where are their weapons hidden?"

Jingzhi shook her head with difficulty. She was locked in the empty cabin, not bound, but she knew that one or more unseen eyes were watching her.

And that electronically altered voice had asked her the same question countless times—it was pure torture. Jingzhi had no idea what these people wanted to ask, so her answer was always: "I don't know."

A full 24 hours passed, and the question was repeated every so often, driving Jingzhi to the brink of collapse. Who were these people? When they were first brought aboard, Jingzhi didn't even get a chance to see them; they were all hooded.

"Alright, I've told you so many times, I'm a victim of being abducted to the island too." Jingzhi buried her face in her hands: "I have no idea what you're asking."

Jingzhi had been interrogated relentlessly for nearly 24 hours. Her brain felt sluggish, her eyelids heavy with sleep. This tactic seemed like a scene from a movie involving torture, the only difference being that the enemy was in the shadows, while she was the only one in the open. As for Squid and Aunt Wu, she didn't know where they were being held.

"Stubborn girl." The voice from the loudspeaker softened slightly: "So tell me who you are?" "Me? Just a refugee..." Indeed, she was a refugee caught in a tropical storm. Jingzhi forced herself to answer, afraid that she would slip up due to exhaustion or worry. Actually,

she didn't need to worry about slipping up, because she didn't know any inside story; in short, she didn't know who her pirate uncle had offended.

But then there's the squid… What did these people do to the squid…? Jingzhi was exhausted, her mind was a jumbled mess, and the light before her eyes began to flicker. Suddenly, the cabin door opened, and a woman

, seemingly enveloped in a halo, walked in. Jingzhi blinked, trying to focus her gaze on the woman. But… was she dreaming or…? This woman was tall, with wild, wavy hair, wearing a long, bohemian-style dress; she looked… like a movie star.

Was she dreaming? Jingzhi blinked, trying to see clearly whether this woman was real or just a figment of her imagination.

“Oh, poor girl…” the woman’s voice was deep and husky, with a languid sexiness: “Look how sleepy you are…” So sleepy… yes, she was so tired.

Jingzhi had been asked this question for countless hours, never allowed a break, it was this voice, in her memory, this voice relentlessly asking questions.

Jingzhi's chin was lifted by the woman, who exuded a pleasant fragrance, faint yet palpable. Jingzhi tried to focus her gaze. But…

all she could make out was a large cat's-eye stone pendant on the woman's chest, a crystal-clear green… so pure it could drown one. "What's wrong?" the woman asked softly. "Are you feeling unwell?" Her cool, icy fingers touched Jingzhi's forehead. More than just feeling unwell? Jingzhi thought worriedly; she was about to faint.

Then the figure before her began to blur and disappear. Her consciousness seemed to lighten, and she slowly floated into a deep sleep, free from hunger and fatigue.

"Asleep?" The woman's slender fingers stroked Jingzhi's satin-like long hair. "What a poor little thing."

"Alright, don't be so dramatic," a man standing in the doorway seemed unimpressed by the pity in her tone. "We've been asking around all day, and we still don't know who this woman, that old lady, and that child are."

"I know that old lady," the woman with the cat-eye pendant on her chest smiled. She had healthy, slightly brownish skin, and her face was as beautiful as a young girl's, but beneath that smile, you could see the laugh lines at the corners of her eyes—she was not young.

"How do you know her? Aitan?" The cabin door was pushed open by the man, who strode in. He was short, with the typical short, stocky build of a Southeast Asian, and an eyepatch covered one eye. It was this eyepatch that made this fairly handsome man look like a genuine pirate.

“I know her.” Aitan still looked down at the unconscious Jingzhi, then her gaze fell on the two jade pendants that had accidentally slipped out from Jingzhi’s chest…

“Just two jade pendants.” The man’s gaze moved from the pendants to Jingzhi’s face: “This woman is from mainland China.” “Oh? How do you know?”

“I’ve seen all kinds of women, this skin color, this figure…” The man’s single eye shot out a hunter’s greedy look: “And this waist, no Malaysian woman can compare.” “You lecherous devil, get out of my way!” Aitan turned and shoved him: “This isn’t your pirate den, you better watch yourself!”

“We agreed that the money is yours, and the woman is mine.” The man seemed to be wary of Aitan, taking a step back and muttering.

"The money's all mine? You don't want a single penny?" Aitan scoffed. "Watch closely. If you want this woman, then I'll take all the other benefits of Treasure Island for myself." "Treasure Island? You've got quite the appetite. That won't do."

"Hmph, what's there to say?" Aitan patted his shoulder, her elegant movements like patting her pet dog. "Alright, go take care of our ship."

After the man left, Aitan gracefully turned and returned to Jingzhi's side. Her gaze swept quickly over Jingzhi's beautiful and refined face, and her half-closed eyelashes. She sighed softly, "I know who you are." "Who are you..." Jingzhi asked softly in her sleep.

Aitan was startled, then realized she was talking in her sleep and couldn't help but smile: "Me? You'd better not know."

"Aitan," the one-eyed man from before turned back again, "the island sent a small boat, saying they want to check if the hostages we captured are safe." "Don't receive them!" Aitan waved his hand, then shouted, "Come back!" "Signal them with flags, just say welcome!" "Nothing else?" The man hesitated. "Nothing else." Aitan sat down on the sofa opposite Jingzhi: "Bring the person directly over." "Yes, sir."

The cabin door closed, and Aitan's fingers slid along Jingzhi's cheek, her delicate skin, fair with a healthy pink hue: "You're his daughter? Heh..."

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