Stealing Your Love [Complete] - 10

Chapter Ninety-One: Meeting

"Alright, Aitan, your pirate game should be over!" A sudden, cold voice interrupted her.

Aitan turned around. The one-eyed man who had just left was being pushed into the cabin by a cold pistol pointed at him.

"Han Cheng, I'm warning you… this is the Cat's Eye," sweat beaded on the one-eyed man's forehead. Han Cheng shrugged. "I saw it, and you're in my hands. These are minor matters, not worth us tearing each other apart over."

Seeing Han Cheng, Aitan's lips curved into a smile.

That smile was full of charm. Han Cheng was stunned. Her smile was still so captivating, making him dizzy. He frowned at the feeling, but he knew he wanted to see her smile.

"Darling…" Aitan stepped forward lightly. "Why are you so angry?"

Undeniably, she had a graceful figure, her long, slender waist as supple as a young girl's. And her height wasn't much shorter than his.

Han Cheng stared intently at the exquisite curves of her body, his brows furrowing slightly.

He told himself, "Concentrate. Think about the show that's about to begin."

Han Cheng's cold gaze swept over the obviously over-decorated room, his lips pressed tightly together. "Aitan, you've really gone too far this time. Pirate ships aren't fun, are they?"

Aitan's eyebrows twitched slightly, then his expression relaxed. "I took it as something else. This ship is mine. I'm not playing any games..."

Han Cheng's gaze drifted to the window. "This ship... is yours? Don't tell me you're the captain of the legendary Cat's Eye."

"You guessed right," Aitan sighed. "As expected, you're like all men who hear about this for the first time—you don't believe it, you don't believe women are winged angels, you don't believe we can fly."

"No, I believe women have wings..." Han Cheng gripped his gun tightly, the muzzle pressed against the one-eyed man's chin. "However, even if she's an angel, to prevent her from going against my wishes, I will not hesitate to break her wings."

"Oh?" Aitan blinked, his gaze fixed on the gun barrel. "What are you going to do? Are you the one sent to visit the hostages?"

“No, someone else is visiting the hostages,” Han Cheng smiled mischievously. “He’s on the small boat, about to board, and I… of course, I’m visiting in a pirate’s manner.”

“That reminds me, we seem to be relatives within five degrees of kinship.”

“Yes…” Aitan smiled. “You’re the only pirate in the family, but now you’re not alone, I am too, the mysterious and great captain of the Cat’s Eye pirate ship—”

“The family had already reached a conclusion back then. Although I don’t follow the family rules, I haven’t plundered civilians, much less my own relatives.”

“Neither have I…” Aitan swallowed the last part of his sentence, then smiled. “Of course, if the target of the plunder were you…”

“Not me, it’s her…” Han Cheng gestured with his chin towards the unconscious Jingzhi. “Do you know who she is?”

“She said she’s a refugee,” Aitan shook his head. “Could she be a passenger from the ship you robbed?”

“Heh… you’re holding that jade pendant, and you’re asking me?”

Aitan’s gaze suddenly turned melancholy. “You mean… she…”

“Because I heard you plundered Shrimp Island.”

"Haha..." Han Cheng tilted his head back and sneered, "You're still thinking about him, huh? What, came to see if I killed him?"

"What a joke," Aitan scoffed, "I came to see if he killed you."

"Captain..." A crew member shouted from afar, "The people from the island want to see you!"

"Who are they?" Aitan walked to the island gate, glancing at the one-eyed man Han Cheng was holding under his arm. "Han Cheng, why are you holding this piece of trash so tightly?"

"What a joke, if I didn't hold him so tightly, how would I look as a hostage?" Han Cheng turned his gun and tapped the trash on the back of the head, then gently laid the unconscious pirate down. "Alright, I'll go with you to see the people from the island."

"You'll go with me?" Aitan scoffed. "What's their background? I haven't decided whether I want to see them or not."

"Trust me, you'll be happy to see him." Han Cheng half-embraced her shoulder. "You'll find out when you see him, after all... you haven't seen your son for almost 23 years."

"Wh...what did you say?" Aitan stepped back, her composed expression replaced by panic, fear, and helplessness. "What did you say?"

"Your...son..." Han Cheng whispered in her ear, each word distinct, "And the one lying on the sofa...is his wife."

"No...no...you're lying..." The woman, who had just been so strong, seemed to age 20 years in an instant. "I don't want to see him."

"Why not? Are you...afraid that your men will find out you have such a grown son and know your true age? Believe me, you'll always be young and beautiful."

Han Cheng took her hand and placed it to his lips. "You're the most beautiful pirate in recorded history."

"You're so glib," Aitan shook her head. "But I'm really nervous."

"I can tell..."

As the cabin door opened, a tall, muscular figure entered the room, his broad shoulders making the space seem instantly smaller.

Chapter Ninety-Two: Motherly

Love Aitan squinted, watching You Yang enter the cabin.

You Yang's vision was momentarily impaired in the dim light of the cabin. When he finally settled into the dim light of the cabin, he was surprised to see Han Cheng. Then, there was Jingzhi, fast asleep on the sofa…

“Where exactly is this…” His gaze finally turned to Aitan. Even in her seemingly calm eyes, a hint of moisture flickered.

“You…” Aitan slowly stepped forward, stopping in front of You Yang.

You Yang looked down at her, his resolute face softening slightly, revealing a hint of curiosity.

His deep eyes narrowed, seemingly puzzled as to how a woman could be here, while Aitan simply stared at him.

He looked down at Aitan, then turned to Han Cheng, frowning: “What’s going on? Don’t tell me this is another joke you’ve made, Uncle.”

“Oh,” Han Cheng mumbled, something vague like: whoever makes the joke should die.

Aitan bit her lip. She no longer had time to pay attention to the man behind her. She seemed more focused on You Yang, this tall, imposing man. He was no longer the toddler he once was, but a handsome man.

She exhaled. Suddenly, she felt as if a taut spring within her body had reached its breaking point.

"Child, what are you doing here?" Aitan asked, forcing a smile at You Yang, then turning to glare fiercely at Han Cheng. Han Cheng couldn't help but groan.

You Yang looked at Han Cheng, then at Aitan: "Were you also kidnapped by pirates?"

"Yes!"

"Of course not..."

Aitan glared fiercely at Han Cheng, her gaze enough to silence him: "I was also a victim of pirate kidnapping, Mr. Han saved me."

As she spoke, Aitan nodded to the one-eyed pirate lying on the ground: "This unconscious gentleman on the ground can attest that Mr. Han is indeed the most formidable pirate in the Bay of Bengal."

Han Cheng's expression was much stranger; he first looked drowsy, then fell silent.

You Yang glanced at Aitan, neither confirming nor denying her statement. He slowly walked towards the unconscious Jingzhi and picked her up: "So, Uncle, you've taken everything under control?"

"Ahem... too much so." Han Cheng shook his nose: "Their leader is a heinous villain... but everything is under my control."

...Aida narrowed her eyes. She took a deep breath: "Then, introduce us, Mr. Han."

"Hmm," Han Cheng coughed: "You Yang, this beautiful lady is my cousin, and your mother's name is Aida."

Originally, You Yang's attention was on the unconscious Jingzhi, but upon hearing Han Cheng's words, his expression shifted from surprise, doubt, hesitation, and finally, a stiffness.

"You? My biological mother?" You Yang asked, his voice sounding stiff.

Ai Tan slowly nodded. "If you are You Yang, then yes."

Ai Tan looked up, gazing at his handsome face, noticing his lower lip trembling slightly. "Yes, you are the child I carried for ten months. You have a red birthmark on the right side of your navel."

Jing Zhi heard this just as she opened her eyes.

Yes, even if You Yang denied it, Jing Zhi knew it was true. There was an irregular red birthmark, and Jing Zhi had even studied its shape.

You Yang's facial muscles twitched. "I thought you wouldn't remember giving birth to a son, but you remember my birthmark? Should I thank you?"

"Hehe, it seems you're not fond of me. However, I won't blame you." Ai Tan extended her hand to You Yang, seemingly waiting for his understanding or some other gesture. But after waiting for a while, You Yang didn't extend his hand in a friendly manner. Instead, a hint of doubt appeared in his eyes.

"Won't blame me?" "So, you thought it was a good deed to abandon a five-year-old child on the street back then? You won't blame me?"

You Yang clenched his fists, his eyes narrowed, and his gaze turned cold.

Aitan stared at him, startled by his intense reaction: "You're quite vengeful, aren't you?"

"It's not vengefulness, it's just a deep memory. Want to talk about why you abandoned me?"

Never! She had no intention of discussing it with him.

"It's nothing special," Aitan shrugged: "Aren't you doing fine now?"

You Yang nodded: "That's true, the past is the past, but..."

Aitan's smile froze when she heard him continue: "But I won't call you Mom. From the moment you let go of my hand, you weren't my mom anymore."

She blinked, somewhat surprised: "Child, have you ever thought... that I might have had other reasons for doing that?"

"Maybe, but anyway, thank you. Thank you for not abandoning me in the wilderness, for not throwing me into the sea to feed the sharks." “

I like sharks,” Aitan said, then chuckled softly. “My little Yangyang, if I threw you in, maybe the sharks wouldn’t have the heart to kill you. You were a heartthrob when you were little.”

“Oh, so you know my talent, that’s why you sent me to find Dad?”

“Yes, You Shiqun has no children, he’d be happy to take you in.”

“Don’t lie to me!” You Yang clenched his fists. “I’ve never met a mother like you before.”

“Hehe,” Aitan patted his shoulder. “Believe me, I sent you away because I love you.”

“Love me?” You Yang narrowed his eyes. “That’s a truly great love.” Even in the sweltering heat of the tropical sea, Jingzhi couldn't shake off the icy chill that felt like falling into a freezer. The woman claiming to be You Yang's mother was saying she abandoned him on the street because she loved him.

Silently, tears streamed down Jingzhi's face. She imagined a child the size of a squid, helplessly standing on the bustling street. Even a squid without a mother's care had You Shiqun's love, but what did You Yang have back then? No wonder he harbored such deep resentment towards her, no wonder his personality was so awkward… "Alright, your great maternal love has made my Jingzhi cry," You Yang said coldly, then walked past Aitan to hug Jingzhi. Jingzhi clutched You Yang's clothes tightly, sobbing and resting her head against his chest. "Alright, let's go," You Yang whispered in her ear. "Wait…" Aitan stopped him: "Don't go." You Yang raised an eyebrow: "What? Why won't we go?" "Aren't you a hostage on this ship too? What? Are you the captain of this ship?" Aitan remained silent. You Yang glanced at the large cat's-eye stone on Aitan's chest, then turned to Han Cheng: "Uncle, is this for real?" Han Cheng coughed softly and looked away. "The Cat's Eye is mine," Aitan answered proudly, his expression frank and sincere: "So, whoever you are, when you leave is up to me." "So, Uncle, you're also trapped on this ship by her?" " Well, I wasn't kidnapped. Your mother's ship can enter Hong Kong directly. It's better for you to take this ship back home." Han Cheng turned his back to Aitan: "As for your luggage, I'll send someone to bring it up as soon as possible." You Yang was stunned for a moment, then finally nodded: "Alright then, give us a cabin. Jingzhi needs to rest." “ But… I’m not sleepy…” Jingzhi protested vehemently, but couldn’t resist the constant yawning. What was wrong with her? “Let’s go rest,” Youyang hugged her tightly and walked out of the cabin. Jingzhi woke up about an hour later and was surprised to find that she had actually fallen asleep. It was a very elegantly decorated room, a huge carved wooden bed, silk sheets… Youyang lay quietly beside her, his half-closed eyelashes adorned with what looked like water droplets. The cabin rocked slightly as the ship moved forward, but not violently, because the ship was very large, even larger than the Emerald. Jingzhi gently touched Youyang’s slightly tired face: “I love you, Youyang, I love you.” “ Hmm…” He turned over in his sleep, wrapping his arms around her waist even more intimately. Jingzhi even thought he had woken up. But he breathed softly in her ear, his long eyelashes draped over his cheeks, looking innocent and naive like a child. Jingzhi sighed, widening her eyes and tilting her head back to keep the tears from falling. She finally understood why he had reacted so strongly to her leaving him and Squid. And now, she couldn't forgive the woman who had shaped most of his personality. She truly didn't know how to face that woman.

You Yang mumbled something in his sleep, pulling her even tighter. His warm body almost pinned her beneath him, and Jingzhi could feel his aroused erection pressing against her lower back.

"You Yang..." she tried to wake him. After all, they were on a ship at sea, and...

for a moment, Jingzhi instinctively wanted to pull away, but her slight movement only elicited a disgruntled grumble from him, followed by an even tighter embrace.

Jingzhi blinked in surprise. She had never imagined that You Yang could become aroused even in his sleep.

She should try to avoid him.

But...

a surge of impulse prevented her from struggling. Right now, the sleeping You Yang seemed easy to control, and controlling a man... just the thought alone made her knees weak.

If this time, it were her turn... she blushed as she recalled their days on the island. Her small hands slowly slid from his chest to his waist, then gently unbuttoned his shirt and pulled down his trousers.

“Oh my god…” You Yang suddenly opened his eyes as she grasped his hand.

What was going on? His Jingzhi had always been the shy and passive one; what had made her suddenly so proactive? You Yang groaned…

Jingzhi hesitated, then tightened her grip on him, listening to his breathing become rapid, the burning swelling pulsating between her fingers as if it were a pulse.

Suddenly, a strange emotion overwhelmed her; in this moment, she could feel that in their intimacy, she was now in control.

And this sudden thought drove her mad—she wanted him inside her, to fill her, no longer passively receiving; she wanted him to enter her again and again, like before, without restraint, without tenderness…

It seemed that only then, only through that almost painful yet perfect lovemaking, could she get closer to him.

In this moment before You Yang was fully awake, she guided him into her body, and that perfect feeling instantly filled her.

"Love me, love me..." For the first time in her life, Jingzhi pressed herself against him, tilting her head back and moving wildly. From Youyang's angle, he could see Jingzhi's upturned chin and her full, firm breasts heaving with each movement...

Jingzhi knew that her current position and actions had exceeded her limits, but it was precisely this realization that excited her immensely.

She wanted to change something, erase something, through this almost religious ritual of lovemaking. But what exactly did she want to change, and what did she want to erase? She didn't know... What kind of madness was this?

Jingzhi gripped Youyang's sweaty shoulders, closed her eyes, and let herself immerse herself in the sensual stimulation. Youyang groaned and arched his back to meet hers. For the first time in her life, she took the initiative. This was utterly insane. Jingzhi swayed her hips slowly, and with each movement, sweat beaded on Youyang's forehead. He was now fully awake. He gripped Jingzhi's waist, groaning hoarsely, trying to get her to move faster. But Jingzhi refused to cooperate, continuing her slow, almost agonizing movements. "God, Jingzhi..." Youyang roared, suddenly flipping over and pinning Jingzhi beneath him. Jingzhi looked up at him; his proportions were perfect, his muscles sculpted. "Girl, you're playing with fire," he whispered, then reclaimed control with rapid, urgent thrusts. "No, you're mine..." Jingzhi clung to his shoulders, clamping her legs around his waist, and with a forceful pull... she regained the upper hand. You Yang was amused by Jingzhi's childish behavior. He chuckled softly, the muscles in his chest trembling under Jingzhi's hand, the laughter resonating in his chest with a pleasant sound… Jingzhi gazed at him, mesmerized. Against the backdrop of the snow-white sheets, his skin was a pale coffee color, smooth yet encasing muscles as hard as iron… “Do you like what you see?” You Yang smiled, the newly grown stubble on his chin adding a touch of nonchalance to his face. Lying languidly in the disheveled silk sheets, he exuded a sensuality that could hypnotize her… Jingzhi smiled. Five years ago, in that dark wooden house, You Yang was the one in control, but now… it was her turn. “I like it… not only what I see, but also what I’m doing.” She could feel his rapid heartbeat beneath his chest. Their eyes met, and he thrust forward, penetrating her even deeper. He gripped her waist, lifting her to match his thrusts, again and again… The thrusts, almost bursting him apart, made Jingzhi cry out. You Yang stopped in surprise, cursing under his breath, “Damn it, did I hurt you?” Jingzhi shook her head. Yes, it was indeed a feeling similar to pain, but not quite. You Yang’s second thrust made her groan again, this time definitely a groan of pleasure… You Yang lifted her hips and then lowered them, using gravity to penetrate her even deeper with each thrust. To be precise, although Jingzhi had gained control, the power still rested on his pace. Under his relentless, persistent thrusts, Jingzhi became breathless. She couldn’t take it anymore; she could feel him growing harder and thicker inside her. She couldn’t, she couldn’t bear it… Jingzhi spread her legs, tightly clamping his waist, trying to stop his movements. "No..." she sobbed, "Oh..." God, she was going crazy. If he continued, she might not be able to take it, but if he stopped, the unsatisfied desire would leave her at a loss. "Do you want it or not?" You Yang whispered in her ear, "Listen to your heart, open your legs." Jingzhi felt her whole body burning, and she could almost hear the sound of blood flowing in her veins. She groaned, her muscles contracting and spasming as she enveloped him, trying to stop his intrusion, but inadvertently allowing him to penetrate even deeper. "My God..." You Yang murmured, letting out a low sigh, and then he thrust forcefully, burying himself deep in her warmth. The violent, almost savage, thrusts made her almost scream. As if sensing her discomfort, he stopped at the last moment, sweat sliding down his cheeks, merging with hers. He arched his body, writhing almost desperately, yearning for his response. "Don't stop..." she choked out in a low voice, "Give it to me...give it to me quickly..." It was Jingzhi's last plea that shattered You Yang's carefully constructed self-control. "Don't stop? Are you sure?" "Ugh...faster..." Jingzhi sobbed, opening her legs. You Yang intertwined his fingers with hers, pinning her hands to the pillow above her head. This position made her breasts firm. He lowered his head and took one of her hardened nipples into his mouth, while his powerful thrusts made her tremble all over. Jingzhi now knew what it meant to play with fire. She felt as if she had returned to five years ago, to the night You Yang drank the beer Wu Yanya had given him. The intensity of that night paled in comparison to this one.

The difference was that the previous night she had been forced to endure it; she was still a girl who had never experienced passion, and she dared not resist his wanton plunder.

But this time was different. She could feel You Yang's every thrust, even the muscle spasms caused by his movements inside her.

He lifted her hips to accommodate his entry, and then, an immediate climax arrived. His groans mingled with her sobs and cries. His body stiffened at the moment of passion, then the muscles in his back contracted and clenched…

At that moment, Jingzhi felt as if she had exploded in his arms, shattering into a thousand pieces…

You Yang's heavy body pressed her down into the soft mattress. Jingzhi could even hear her own heartbeat. She lay there lazily, feeling her entire body weak and sore.

This was completely different from her experience in the wooden house five years ago. That time it was just intercourse, but this time it was real sex.

So this is what it feels like when two people who truly love each other make love?

Lazy and sweet.

"What are you thinking about?" he whispered in her ear.

“I was thinking…” Jingzhi played with the pink color behind his fingers, “If only we had loved each other like this from the beginning.”

“Believe me, it’s not too late now…” You Yang held her hand tightly, “The first thing I’ll do when I get back to China is marry you.”

“I…I’m so scared…” Jingzhi choked back tears and rested her head on his chest, “Will your mother…will she come with us to see your father? I’m so scared about my background…”

“No matter what, I won’t abandon you because of some bullshit background.” You Yang hugged her tightly, “I actually knew Mom was coming, but I didn’t expect her to do it in such a dramatic way. When we get back to China, I’ll make her and Dad explain to me why she abandoned me all those years ago.”

“Actually…” Jingzhi hesitated.

"Actually what?"

"I don't think your mother is the kind of cold-blooded woman who would abandon her child. Did she have some kind of hardship back then?"

"Have a hardship?" You Yang scoffed. "You've seen it yourself, she's living a very comfortable life."

"Never judge a book by its cover," Jingzhi sighed. "Back then, didn't you also think I didn't want the child because of money?"

"What a joke, how could you be like her?" You Yang kissed her cheek. "I love you, Jingzhi."

"Love? You... really love me?" Jingzhi smiled uncertainly. "What do you love about me? Because the child I gave birth to just happens to be yours?"

"It has nothing to do with the child," You Yang held up her hand and gently kissed her palm. "I love you, regardless of the child, money, or anything else. I just love you."

"Then, you've repeatedly mentioned that you weren't my first man... you really don't mind?"

Jingzhi gritted her teeth, throwing out her trump card. She knew he actually cared a lot about that. Men, even though they repeatedly emphasized that they didn't care, seemed to feel like something was missing without that hymen.

You Yang's body stiffened, then he laughed hoarsely: "I don't mind."

Of course he didn't mind...

"Really don't mind?" Jingzhi turned his head: "Look me in the eyes."

"Fine, I mind! I fucking mind to death!" You Yang roared, turning around and pinning her down: "Don't talk to me about that person!"

"Which one?" Jingzhi asked him deliberately.

"Your first man." You Yang squeezed out the words through gritted teeth: "Don't talk about him anymore, I never want to talk about him again."

Chapter Ninety-Five: Oblivion (Part 1)

A day later, the Cat's Eye ferry that Jingzhi and the others were on docked in Hong Kong. Fortunately, their passports and documents were intact, allowing them to pass through customs smoothly.

Jingzhi thought You Yang would immediately take her back to China, but You Yang decided to stay in Hong Kong for a few more days. The You family also owned property in Hong Kong, so accommodation was not a problem.

As for You Yang's mother, Ai Tan, she didn't go ashore with them but stayed on her Cat's Eye ferry. You Yang didn't ask any questions and took Jingzhi and Squid back to their villa in the Mid-Levels.

Hong Kong, a free port and hailed as a shopper's paradise, is home to world-class fashion and jewelry boutiques. You Yang dragged Jingzhi along, buying her a ton of clothes, jewelry, and quirky trinkets. To be precise, whenever Jingzhi stopped to look, the items would be packed up and delivered to their villa in the Mid-Levels. Eventually, even if Jingzhi liked something, she dared not look at it for long.

The beautiful scenery of Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park, and other attractions were also favorites for children.

Their extravagant fun was most enjoyable for Squid, who clung to his mother's arms all day.

Squid was quite heavy, and Jingzhi couldn't carry him for long, so You Yang took over. To outsiders, it truly looked like a heartwarming scene of a happy family of three.

The You family mansion in the Mid-Levels was built when You Yang was very young, and after nearly 20 years of continuous expansion, it finally reached its current size.

Jingzhi had never imagined that she would one day be living in the You family's luxurious mansion—not out of inferiority, but simply because she had never considered it.

So, after a day of carefree fun, they returned to the You residence by car. Jingzhi hesitated as she got out, her current situation quite awkward. Looking at the row of servants standing in the courtyard, she felt even more embarrassed and unsure what to do.

You Yang seemed to sense Jingzhi's embarrassment. After getting out of the car, he went around to her side and opened the door for her, smiling slightly at her: "Don't be afraid… I'll take you home sooner or later, come…"

He extended his hand to Jingzhi, who hesitated for a moment before placing it in his.

"Welcome, young master, it's been a long time." The butler from the You family in Hong Kong was a typical elderly British gentleman, whom You Yang introduced as Uncle Li.

He was a stern-faced old man, about 60 years old, tall and imposing, wearing a well-fitting and crisp uniform.

He listened politely as You Yang introduced Jingzhi as his fiancée, then nodded, his gaze never directly meeting Jingzhi's eyes.

"Welcome, Miss Jingzhi, to Hong Kong. We prepared a room for you on the second floor as soon as we received the news." Uncle Li turned to look at You Yang. "Young Master, your room is Madam's bedroom on the third floor."

"Why isn't it the master bedroom?" You Yang frowned slightly.

"The master bedroom..." Uncle Li hesitated for a moment, glancing at Jingzhi. "Well, the Master came to Hong Kong last night, and I thought you knew."

"What?"

"What?"

Jingzhi and You Yang exclaimed almost simultaneously. Their surprise and unexpectedness did not change Uncle Li's expression. He simply stood quietly to the side, waiting for You Yang's next instructions.

"Where is my father?" You Yang frowned. No wonder, he had planned to spend some time alone with Jingzhi before returning to China. It seemed all his plans were in disarray.

"The Master is very busy. He instructed that there will be a cocktail party at home tonight, and that you should not eat out."

"Who else is invited to the cocktail party?"

"Well, I haven't received the specific list yet, but they should all be business partners."

"Okay, thank you!" You Yang nodded and pulled Jingzhi into the main room.

“Wait,” Jingzhi gripped his hand tightly and whispered, “No, I don’t want to stay here. I’m so scared of your father.”

“Don’t be afraid!” You Yang also squeezed her hand. “He’s not a monster. Besides, I’m here.”

Jingzhi swallowed her fearful groans and had no choice but to follow him, but her heart was pounding. She remembered You Shiqun at the charity gala, You Shiqun on the yacht, and You Shiqun she met on the beach years ago…

Every time she met him, he gave Jingzhi a different feeling. Sometimes he was kind, sometimes cruel, and sometimes mysterious.

Jingzhi didn’t know what You Shiqun wanted to do to her. Ever since she learned about her awkward identity, Jingzhi had thought more than once that if she met You Shiqun again, she really didn’t know how to overcome this awkwardness.

"Alright, stop frowning." At the guest room door, You Yang kissed Jingzhi's forehead. "The housekeeper just told me privately that Dad brought a female companion to Hong Kong. She's probably his new girlfriend again. Don't worry, I already spoke to him on the maritime phone. He doesn't object to our marriage."

"Mmm..." Jingzhi smiled weakly, forcing a reassuring expression, but she still felt uncertain.

Tonight's party was a formal banquet, so Jingzhi chose a delicate and lovely light green silk dress. It was the result of her shopping trip with You Yang during the day.

She tried several hairstyles, but they all looked old-fashioned, so she simply let her hair fall naturally over her shoulders. Then she put on a pair of earrings she had bought during the day.

As for the jade pendants around her neck, she let them fall naturally between her breasts, then stepped back, nervously staring at her reflection in the mirror...

and the girl in the mirror stared back at her with wide eyes...

Calm down, calm down, you must calm down!

So when You Yang knocked on the door, she was extremely nervous.

All the guests today were business partners or personal friends of You Shiqun and You Yang. She tried to stop trembling; she tried to take deep breaths to calm her nerves, but it didn't work.

"Don't be afraid..." You Yang squeezed her fingers, "Everything will be alright."

When Jingzhi stepped into the living room, there were hundreds of people of all kinds. But in just one glance, You Shiqun, who had been at the other end of the hall, spotted her. He turned around and slowly scanned her.

Jingzhi could feel his smile, a smile that pierced through the crowd and suddenly made her feel warm.

Jingzhi was captivated by You Shiqun's gaze. You Yang led her by the hand, across the hall, towards You Shiqun.

She noticed that people in the hall were frequently casting curious glances at her, exchanging suspicious looks. What were they all wondering about?

Jingzhi, slightly flustered, averted her gaze, but inadvertently caught sight of the woman standing beside You Shiqun—the woman the housekeeper had told You Yang about You Shiqun's new girlfriend—Ding Lei? Good

heavens! Jingzhi's eyes widened in surprise. It was indeed Ding Lei; she couldn't be mistaken.

At that moment, Ding Lei, dressed impeccably, leaned against You Shiqun like a little bird, chatting with a guest beside her…

From Ding Lei's current angle, she hadn't seen Jingzhi enter the hall. Jingzhi looked at Ding Lei with slight confusion. How did she know You Shiqun?

But before Jingzhi could resolve this question, Ding Lei saw Jingzhi. Her expression was one of overwhelming joy. She pushed through the crowd to approach Jingzhi, but You Shiqun immediately grabbed her arm.

You Shiqun whispered something in her ear, but his gaze never left Jingzhi's face.

Ding Lei hesitated for a moment, smiled at Jingzhi, but avoided Jingzhi's questioning gaze.

Strange, You Shiqun and Ding Lei? Could Ding Lei be You Shiqun's new girlfriend?

Jingzhi felt her heart pounding. She turned to look at You Yang, but couldn't read any reaction in his expression. You Yang seemed like a different person at that moment; his lips were tightly pressed together, and his gaze was firm as he led her forward.

Finally, closer, closer…

As they drew nearer, Jingzhi tried several times to break free from You Yang's grasp and escape… but it seemed that this childish act wouldn't work.

"Hi, Jingzhi..." When they were finally close enough... Ding Lei greeted Jingzhi with a smile, "You're alright, I'm so glad to see you."

"Me too, Senior Sister..." Jingzhi wanted to say something more, but You Shiqun interrupted their brief exchange: "Excuse me, Jingzhi, and You Yang, come with me for a moment."

"No!" You Yang suddenly said, "Dad, say what you want to say here. Jingzhi and I won't talk to you alone."

"What did you say?" You Shiqun asked, slightly confused, "You mean...?"

"Dad, forget it," You Yang put his arm around Jingzhi's shoulder, "After so many years, you should stop controlling me. Actually, you've done quite well these past five years."

"What did you say?" You Shiqun narrowed his eyes: "Are you implying something?"

“I’m not implying anything,” You Yang hugged Jingzhi tightly, “I just want to tell you that I’m not a virgin, and I’m not your ideal successor, but… I only know one thing now—that no matter what happens, Jingzhi and I can’t be separated.”

You Shiqun suddenly grabbed Ding Lei’s wrist, the force so tight that she gasped, “Ding Lei, did you hear that? My son… he actually openly opposes me?”

“Don’t mention your son openly opposing you!” Ding Lei complained softly, but her tone was humorous, “Your son is already 27 years old, but look at what you’re doing? You treat You Yang as your private property, you can’t set his life goals for him, his own future should be his own choice.”

“You’re helping them…” You Shiqun said thoughtfully, “Ding Lei, do you know you should stand on my side?”

“Why?” Ding Lei retorted sharply, “So that you’re helping me, I’ll shamefully betray my friend’s interests? No, I can do that.”

"Haha..." You Shiqun laughed instead of getting angry, "Ding Lei, I really didn't underestimate your sharp tongue. It seems you don't need anyone to protect you, but I might need someone to protect me."

"Oh, what kind of person do you want to protect you? I have plenty." Ding Lei smiled at Jingzhi while still bantering with You Shiqun.

"Is that even a question? Of course, it's someone like you."

Is this flirting? Listening to You Shiqun and Ding Lei's banter, Jingzhi suddenly realized that she hadn't smiled so happily in a long time—Ding Lei's strength was innate, something she couldn't learn even if she wanted to.

Chapter Ninety-Six: Struggle (Part 1)

There is no absolute right or wrong in this world, only one thing that can subdue another.

Ding Lei's nonchalant attitude towards You Shiqun seemed to further arouse You Shiqun's interest in Ding Lei.

Conversely, it seemed that only Jingzhi could touch the softest, most vulnerable part of You Yang's heart.

At the lively banquet, Jingzhi had no idea what awaited her. All she knew was that she desperately wanted to talk to You Shiqun about the jade and her past.

But fate had other plans. Just as Jingzhi and the others were gathered together, someone rapidly parted the crowd and walked towards them…

"You Yang!" A furious shout pierced the noise of the party, and all the guests turned around in astonishment.

At the entrance of the party hall, Jingzhi's younger brother, Xue Ran, appeared as if from nowhere.

Good heavens, Xue Ran?

Jingzhi had almost forgotten him. She stepped back worriedly, grabbing You Yang's elbow… How could Xue Ran be here?

You Yang turned his gaze and saw Xue Ran, almost travel-worn, striding into the ballroom with obvious anger.

"Xue Ran?" You Shiqun murmured, "Isn't this Jingzhi's younger brother? It's a pleasure to see you in Hong Kong."

As if prompted by You Shiqun, the butler, Uncle Li, suddenly appeared, moving among the guests in the hall. Within moments, all the guests tactfully took their leave.

Of course, many left with curious expressions; the atmosphere was strange, and the expressions on their faces suggested they wished they could become invisible and stay to watch the show.

After the guests had all left, Xue Ran stepped forward, his expression arrogant. "You won't soon find my presence pleasant. Please tell me, why is my sister here?"

"Xue Ran," You Yang frowned, "We've had business dealings for a while now. I thought you were an independent adult, but I didn't expect you to be as impulsive as a student. Your sister is my fiancée; isn't it perfectly natural for her to be in my house?"

"Perfect natural?" Xue Ran gritted his teeth, his gaze fixed on Jingzhi. "Sister, tell me, did you really come here voluntarily?"

Jingzhi froze. Xue Ran's eyes held a mixture of emotions: hatred, anger, and confusion.

"Xue Ran, how did you get here?" Jingzhi didn't answer his question, instead asking, "Why did you come here?"

"That's none of your business," Xue Ran stepped forward, shoving a thick scroll of paper into Jingzhi's arms. "This tells me everything."

Jingzhi's heart sank. She knew this yellowed scroll all too well—it was her contract for selling herself, selling her child!

Including the surrogacy contract, supplementary agreement, and various legal documents...

These were all things Jingzhi had carefully kept hidden in a lining of her luggage over the years. How did they end up in Xue Ran's hands again?

"Xue Ran..." Jingzhi's voice became weak: "You actually... you actually went through my things?"

"Damn it!" Xue Ran grabbed Jingzhi's shoulders: "Jingzhi, don't you know how worried I was after you went to Myanmar? These past few days, I've been keeping it a secret from Mom, constantly checking the news from Myanmar. Do you know I'll go crazy if I can't find any news about you?"

"Xue Ran... don't get agitated," Ding Lei pulled his arm, "Let go of your sister, talk to her properly."

"Talk to her properly?" Xue Ran released Jingzhi and suddenly threw a punch at You Yang: "There's no need to talk to this kind of person properly."

You Yang dodged his punch, but Xue Ran's next punch came. The hot-blooded Xue Ran had practiced authentic boxing while studying abroad. This European-style long hook punch wasn't as agile as Chinese-style combat, but it was exhilarating to fight with.

Since graduating from university, You Yang hadn't been in a fight, but his fighting skills weren't about proficiency; they were more like a spectacle comparable to a top-tier imported action movie.

Jingzhi wanted to scream and run to break up the fight, but Ding Lei grabbed her hand tightly.

"No, Jingzhi, they're boys. Boys have their own way of solving problems. We shouldn't interfere."

"Damn it, you bastard! How dare you lay a hand on my sister!" Xue Ran punched You Yang in the eye, but You Yang retaliated with a punch that made his nose bleed profusely...

"I'm a bastard? You're the one who's a brat," You Yang stepped forward and grabbed Xue Ran's collar: "What do you know?"

"Get away!" In his desperation, Xue Ran forgot his basic fighting style and grabbed You Yang's collar in return: "How dare you, how dare you hurt my sister! I'll never forgive you!"

"So what if I don't forgive you?" You Yang spat out a mouthful of bloody saliva: "You think you're protecting her? How childish!"

"Damn it, all I know is that it was you, and your family, who despicably stole everything from a pure girl a year ago—her innocence, her self-respect, her courage to live, and her child..."

After hearing Xue Ran's words, You Yang's face looked as if he had been punched hard in the face.

Xue Ran stepped forward: "Do you know what kind of desperate determination she had to get pregnant with a stranger's child? And that she almost risked her life to give birth to that child? And after the child was born, you took it away from her. Do you know that she went to sleep every night with tears in her eyes? And what were you and your father doing?"

Jingzhi closed her eyes, tears streaming down her face. She couldn't take it anymore. If Ding Lei hadn't grabbed her and supported her, she would have turned around and run away long ago.

"What agreement did you force her to sign?" Xue Ran roared hoarsely, "Making her mother leave her own child, and she still has to be grateful! And that's it? Do you really think that years later, if you beckon my sister again, she'll have to obediently continue to be bullied by you?"

"Xue Ran..."

Jingzhi finally broke free from Ding Lei and ran forward, "Xue Ran, don't be so agitated, I didn't..."

You Yang grabbed Jingzhi and pulled her behind him, "Jingzhi, step back, this is none of your business."

But Xue Ran stepped forward and grabbed Jingzhi's wrist, "Sister, come back with me!"

The two of them were pulling and tugging, like a scene from a soap opera.

Jingzhi was struggling to keep up and finally couldn't take it anymore, shouting, "Let go, you two!"

Jingzhi had always been soft-spoken and gentle; she had never been seen yelling at anyone before. But this time was different. Not only You Yang, but even Xue Ran had never seen her angry before.

So, Jingzhi's loud shout startled the two grown men, causing them to take a step back and release their grip.

You Shiqun raised an eyebrow, his expression revealing his amusement at the situation.

Jingzhi took a breath and turned to Xue Ran: "Xue Ran, let's find a place to talk alone." She pushed her younger brother towards the door.

"No." You Yang grabbed Jingzhi: "He can leave, but you can't."

"You Yang!" Jingzhi almost screamed.

"Have you forgotten your promise that you would never leave me again?" he whispered in her ear.

"But—I need to talk to Xue Ran properly..."

"Master," Uncle Li appeared just in time behind You Shiqun: "The doorman called; another visitor has arrived."

Before You Shiqun could answer, the front door was pushed open...

"Mom?" Jingzhi exclaimed in surprise, her voice choked in her throat.

Xue's mother was petite and thin, but her voice was loud and firm, her gaze fixed on her son. "I knew it! You were just lying to me about coming to Hong Kong for vacation."

Her tone was full of reproach. "Xue Ran, how could you cause such a scene in someone else's house? Don't act like a child."

"What did I do?" Xue Ran retorted. "Jingzhi is my only sister, I have a responsibility to protect her—"

"Your sister is an adult now; she should have enough wisdom to handle her own problems." Mrs. Xue turned to Jingzhi. "Jingzhi, did you come here willingly?"

"Yes, I..." Jingzhi looked at Youyang: "I came willingly."

The next moment, Mrs. Xue turned to Youyang: "Child, tell me, did Xue Ran barge into your house and interrupt the party? If he really did, I'll immediately sever my mother-son relationship with this fool."

Xue Ran immediately fell silent. He stared in surprise as Mrs. Xue took out a handkerchief and pressed it to Youyang's swollen lips. The latter seemed to be in a much better mood after hearing Mrs. Xue's words.

"No, how could Xue Ran have interrupted the party? We just had a difference of opinion." Youyang pressed the handkerchief to his lips, his voice muffled. "

A difference of opinion?" Mrs. Xue looked at Jingzhi suspiciously. "What's wrong between them?" At this moment, Ding Lei stepped forward and helped Xue's mother up: "

Auntie, don't ask anymore. Their differing opinions have nothing to do with Jingzhi. It's just that Xue Ran designed the building for the You family, and the two of them have different opinions on the design."

"Really?" "Mother Xue stared at Xue Ran.

Xue Ran's face turned pale with fright. Years ago, when Mother Xue was seriously ill, it was Jingzhi's previous indenture that provided the money for her treatment. It was because of that money that Mother Xue was able to have surgery to cure her disease.

However, cancer, even when cured, can sometimes recur. Therefore, over the years, Mother Xue has insisted on conservative treatment and paid attention to traditional Chinese medicine. The siblings have never told their mother about the contract Jingzhi had signed.

If Mother Xue knew that the money she had saved over the years was raised by her beloved daughter through such means, would she, who has always been in poor health, fall ill again?

Therefore, they absolutely couldn't let their mother know about this. Jingzhi nervously gripped You Yang's hand.

"Yes, I was arguing with Xue Ran about the materials for the building's exterior curtain wall," You Yang quickly took over the conversation, rubbing his nose. "I said we should replace the entire exterior curtain wall with environmentally friendly solar panels, but Xue Ran said that would be too costly, right?" “

You Yang said, nudging Xue Ran with his elbow.

“Oh, yes,” Xue Ran said, unusually taking the opportunity, “This is way over budget.”

“Alright, there’s no need to fight over building design, is there?” Xue’s mother finished speaking objectively, then turned to look at Xue Ran, “Alright, since everything’s fine, we should go.”

“Wait,” You Shiqun stepped forward and extended his hand, “I’m You Yang’s father, and you’re Jingzhi’s mother?”

“Yes,” Xue’s mother shook his hand, “I’m sorry, the child was disobedient, I’m sorry for making you laugh.”

“May I ask,” You Shiqun looked at Ding Lei, then at You Yang, “which of you brought Jingzhi’s mother to Hong Kong?”

“It wasn’t me…” Ding Lei and You Yang said in unison, and then everyone’s eyes turned to Xue’s mother.

“How I got here isn’t important, what’s important is that I won’t allow this child to interfere with his sister’s affairs.” "Mother Xue grabbed Xue Ran's wrist, and the previously aggressive Xue Ran was now completely subdued.

"Please excuse me, Xue and Jingzhi have been close since childhood," Mother Xue said, looking at You Yang and Jingzhi. "Perhaps he can't accept the fact that Jingzhi is dating other boys."

"Mom, don't talk nonsense." Xue Ran's face flushed red.

"I'm not talking nonsense," Mother Xue smiled, looking at Jingzhi and You Yang's clasped hands. "Although Jingzhi and Xue Ran aren't related by blood, their sibling bond can't be changed. Even though he always feels he must protect Jingzhi, Jingzhi will one day leave home and marry someone else. To be honest, I've always worried that Jingzhi won't find a good family. She's been abroad all these years, and I'm really worried about her love life, afraid she won't find a good partner who loves and cherishes her."

"Mom..." Jingzhi choked back tears. "I'm sorry for making you worry."

"Mom," Xue Ran bit her lip, "Why are you saying this to me? My sister and I aren't related by blood at all, why can't I take care of her?" “

Silly child,” Xue’s mother smoothed his messy hair, “Jingzhi is your sister, that will never change.”

Chapter Ninety-Seven: Undercurrents .

Xue's mother's seemingly unintentional remark struck Jingzhi like a hammer blow, leaving her pale and leaning back against You Yang's chest.

Blood ties, and a taboo relationship… these were issues she and You Yang had always tried to avoid, but Xue's mother's seemingly casual words suddenly brought them to the forefront.

The trouble wasn't over yet. Just as everyone was staring at each other in disbelief, Squid appeared in the hall like a little angel suddenly descending to earth.

"Mom~~~~~~~~~~~" Squid pouted, rubbing her eyes as she ran into the hall, rushing straight into Jingzhi's arms, completely oblivious to the astonished expression on Xue's mother's face.

"Mom, I'm so hungry," Squid said, still looking sleepy, snuggling against Jingzhi.

Jingzhi hugged Squid, looking up at Xue's mother, who was frozen in shock, with a slightly melancholic expression.

Xue's mother paused for a moment, then slowly knelt down in front of Squid: "Child, what's your name?" "How old are you?"

"Squid, my name is Squid," Squid blinked its big eyes at Xue's mother and held up five fingers of one hand: "I'm five years old."

"Five years old..." Xue's mother murmured, "Five years old..."

Xue's mother looked up at Jingzhi: "Six years ago, when I was seriously ill, you said you were working outside..." Then she looked at Xue Ran: "You said your sister went to work in another city and couldn't come back, Xue Ran?"

"Mom~~~~~~~~~" Jingzhi looked at Xue Ran in a panic, Xue Ran's lips were already pale and she didn't know what to say.

"Master..." Uncle Li appeared behind You Shiqun at the right time: "Dinner is ready."

"Oh, right..." You Shiqun looked at everyone who was stunned: "Dinner, since the banquet was canceled, we can have a family dinner, this..."

You Yang stepped forward and helped Xue's mother, who was half-squatting on the ground: "Auntie, let's go to the dining room and sit down."

"Oh," Xue's mother was helped by You Yang in a daze: "What's going on?" Six years ago, I fell seriously ill. At that time, Jingzhi told me that she worked in a company, and when the company went public, every employee received a lot of original shares. How is this possible? Why is there such a big child? "

Huh?" Squid rolled its eyes and sensed that the adults' expressions and atmosphere were not right. It turned around and ran into You Shiqun's arms: "Grandpa, what's wrong?" You

Shiqun pulled out the chair for the head guest's table and invited her to sit down. You Shiqun, holding a squid, sat in the main seat, right next to Xue's mother. Then, Uncle Li arranged for everyone to sit in order.

One after another, exquisite and delicious dishes were served, each one so refined and appetizing. However, everyone seemed preoccupied, especially Jingzhi. She ate the delicious food, but it tasted like cardboard.

Only You Shiqun chatted and laughed, fulfilling his duty as a perfect host and enlivening the atmosphere. Ding Lei, of course, cooperated with him. But…

although Xue's mother politely ate the dishes You Shiqun had laid out for her, her slightly melancholy gaze kept shifting between the squid, Jingzhi, and You Yang. The more she looked, the more serious her expression became.

At this moment, Jingzhi finally understood—when she told more lies to cover up one lie, it was a never-ending road of no return. Moreover, a lie is, after all, a lie, and it cannot be reconciled.

Xue Ran barely ate anything. He sat in his seat with the stubborn expression typical of boys his age; after all, he was just a 20-year-old, even though he was already a full-fledged engineer at a well-known architectural firm.
You Yang happened to be sitting opposite Xue Ran, and he saw the sullen look on Xue Ran's face. You Yang raised one eyebrow, deliberately trying to tease him: "By the way, Xue Ran, you should reconsider the building's exterior facade. I think solar panels, although expensive, are environmentally friendly. Aren't we advocating for green living and conservation now? Plastic bags are going to be phased out."

Xue Ran was taken aback. This energy-saving topic was something You Yang had just thought of to appease his mother, and now You Yang actually wanted to continue the conversation?

"If you really want to change to a solar-powered exterior facade, then the budget won't just double. First of all, the expensive price of solar panels is not to be underestimated. Installing them throughout the entire building, even if not in every location, will still be a considerable expense."

Xue Ran, true to form, was unambiguous when it came to his profession.

"So, could you give me a preliminary plan for an environmentally friendly building?" You Yang wiped his mouth with a napkin. "I think it's not too late to incorporate the concept of environmental protection and energy conservation into your design." "

This..." Xue Ran glared at You Yang with a hint of anger, wanting to refute but unable to find a reason. After all, he was indeed in charge of the overall design of the You Group building. "Okay, but the technology for energy-saving buildings is the most advanced, and it relies heavily on many related industries."

"I don't care," You Yang stared into his eyes. "As long as it's what I want, I will definitely insist and get it. That's my consistent style."

Jing Zhi suddenly coughed, covering her mouth with a napkin, coughing incessantly.

You Yang reached out and half-embraced her shoulder. "I believe that as we cooperate, you will understand my personality."

Chapter Ninety-Eight: The Truth

Jing Zhi turned to look at You Yang in surprise. In her mind, she had always equated You Yang with impulsiveness and immaturity.

However, at this moment, the confidence and composure that involuntarily flowed from You Yang's face were completely unfamiliar to her.

The agonizing dinner finally ended, and everyone was ushered into the living room, where servants served dessert fruit.

"Excuse me, I must leave a moment..." Jingzhi hurriedly left the table, a hint of panic in her voice. What was wrong with her?

Jingzhi retreated to the bathroom, splashing cold tap water on her face, mingling with her burning tears.

What should she do?

Her mother knew about the squid, and obviously, the squid's existence was silent proof—proof that Jingzhi had been deceiving her mother all these years. But why deceive her?

How could she explain this lie?

Jingzhi dared not think any further...

She splashed some cold water on her burning cheeks. The woman in the mirror was pale and her eyes were empty. She couldn't go out like this; it would be too pathetic...

"Jingzhi..." The bathroom door was gently knocked on: "Are you in there? Are you alright?"

Jingzhi gripped the edge of the sink. Was it You Yang knocking?

Jingzhi slowly opened the door. Sure enough, You Yang leaned against the doorframe, his expression dark and unreadable.

“I…I’m fine.”

Jingzhi tried to walk past him, but Youyang grabbed her wrist. “Wait a minute, don’t go yet.”

“Huh?” Jingzhi turned around.

“There’s no need to rush,” Youyang said softly. “Leave that mess to Dad, he’ll clean it up.”

“A mess?” Jingzhi murmured, unsure of Youyang’s definition, but…

“No, I can’t just hide like this. If Mom asks, let her ask.” Jingzhi said, distressed. “But how do I answer her? She saw Squid.”

“If all else fails,” Jingzhi grabbed Youyang’s elbow, “just say Squid is your ex-girlfriend’s child, and the child is young and thinks I’m the mother.”

“No!” Youyang refused. “Squid is our child, that can’t be changed no matter what. Could it be…”

He grabbed Jingzhi’s wrist with one hand and her waist with the other, pulling her closer. His eyes darkened with inexplicable emotion. “Don’t you want to acknowledge Squid?”

“Oh, no.” Jingzhi was pulled into his arms. “Ugh…what are you doing…”

“What are you doing, I…” You Yang sighed and pulled her into his arms, resting his chin on the top of her head and gently stroking it: “I want to hold you, I want to embrace you, I want to have you, forever…”

“No…” Jingzhi’s voice became muffled as he held her to his chest: “You Yang, you can’t do this, I… my mother is here.”

“So what if she’s here? We’re getting married soon anyway.”

“No,” Jingzhi struggled to pull away from his embrace: “Mom is now suspicious about where I got the money back then. If she finds out I went out and exchanged money myself, she’ll be furious.”

“Nonsense,” You Yang hugged her back, “Back then, all the money your father gave you, you used to treat your aunt’s illness. Your aunt’s illness used up nearly 80% of it. That apartment was sold, and with the remaining money, you bought a big house in the suburbs. The air there is fresh, and it’s close to the cancer hospital… To be precise, before you went abroad, you hardly took a penny from home. Your studies in Italy were all earned through your hard work.”

“You…” Jingzhi’s voice became extremely weak: “How…how did you know all this?”

“Does it matter how I know? What matters is that I know,” You Yang smiled, cupped her face, and kissed her lips: “Am I right?”

A proud smile gradually appeared on Jingzhi’s face—the pride of being appreciated.

“Then, what else do you know?”

“I also know that this little woman in front of me…” You Yang raised his finger and brushed it across her lips: “How strong she used to be…”

You Yang knew very well what Jingzhi had once possessed, because he had visited the old building where she used to live after her whole family moved away…

The dilapidated old building, and the broken furniture abandoned after the hasty move, told him that Jingzhi’s family was extremely poor.

You Yang recalled his frantic search for Jingzhi throughout the city, only to end up locking all the investigation materials in a drawer…

He held her face in his hands, gazing intently at her delicate and beautiful features. So many nights, in the dead of night, her image would creep into his dreams…

Her trembling lips were as alluring as rose petals glistening with dew… And her skin, flawless like the finest porcelain…

Oh, and her scent… He stood there, close enough to smell the sweet fragrance emanating from her.

Yes, that was it… That night in his memory, all his senses were driven mad by that scent…

You Yang had always thought his sensitivity and madness back then were due to the power of that can of beer, but…

Five years later, when he encountered Jingzhi in the bookstore, he hadn't actually seen her. Who would notice a stranger brushing past them in a bookstore?

But on that day, by sheer coincidence, as Jingzhi walked past him, the scent that haunted his memories suddenly filled the air—yes, it was her fragrance…

That fragrance, like musk and orchid… it was the same fragrance that had haunted his dreams for the past five years!

When he turned around and saw Jingzhi's back, he was absolutely certain that the girl was indeed Jingzhi.

Desire and anger overwhelmed all his senses in that instant.

He knew he shouldn't be like this; in that instant, all he could think of was holding Jingzhi tightly in his arms. The pain, anger, and feeling of betrayal he had experienced over the past five years surged into his heart.

In that instant, he asked himself if he had finally come back to life, no longer numb like a living dead, no longer drifting aimlessly. As he followed Jingzhi into the sightseeing elevator, dark desire had already taken over all his senses.

Yes, the sightseeing elevator did indeed lead to the top-floor café, but on the 7th floor, there was a relatively hidden door—that floor was the entrance to You Yang's apartment in this building.

To be precise, the first three floors of that building were a bookstore, and floors three through nineteen were serviced apartments. Each apartment had a hidden door, accessible only by swiping a card on the elevator machine. You Yang happened to have that card with him that day.

Coincidence? Chance?

As he followed her into the elevator, they were the only two inside…

As he leaned forward and wrapped his arms around her waist, he could feel her soft, warm body trembling in his hold.

Jingzhi was terrified; he could feel her heart pounding beneath his hands. He opened his palms and covered her soft breasts, a sudden, startled shiver running through her.

Yes, at that moment, he was strong, yet also weak…

hungrily craving that softness. When he dragged her into the room as he wished, and when she saw him and her face showed a mixture of surprise and fear…

a near-bloodthirsty desire dominated him. He pulled her into his arms, pressing her body against him, ignoring her discomfort and struggles. He pinned her body to the wall, lifting her buttocks, her full, soft breasts pressed against his. Boiling blood caused his hard erection to press against her soft abdomen; he could feel her trembling and struggling.

What did that feel like? Perhaps it was his intense masculine pride?

In the ensuing heat, he once again succumbed to her spell…

and Jingzhi's avoidance of him and her excuse of having a fiancé enraged him.

That day, when she got into a taxi and fled from him, You Yang stood there and swore that this escape was only temporary.

“You Yang, what are you thinking?” Jingzhi's words suddenly broke You Yang's reverie.

"Oh, it's nothing." You Yang snapped out of his reverie, lowered his head, and smiled. "Then let's go back to the hall. I have a way to deal with your mother."

The moment You Yang took her hand, Jingzhi suddenly sensed something was off. The expression on You Yang's face was too confident. What was he plotting?

Jingzhi followed You Yang back to the hall, expecting the atmosphere to be tense, but to her surprise, Ding Lei's efforts made it more harmonious.

Squid was being held on Xue's mother's lap. Clearly, the adorable little squid had won over more than one adult. Even Xue Ran, who had been frowning, was smiling as Squid vividly recounted the story of the pirate grandfather.

Oh dear, Jingzhi was terrified. Squid was talking about pirates; what if he accidentally revealed something else? But she didn't want to interrupt them.

As if sensing Jingzhi and the others' return, You Shiqun, with his back to Jingzhi, nodded to Wu Ma standing to the side. "It's getting late, take Youyu to rest."

"Hmm...no way." Youyu hugged Xue Mama's neck: "I don't want to sleep, I haven't finished telling the story of that giant sea turtle yet. Mom..."

Youyu, with sharp eyes, spotted Jingzhi in the distance and stretched out his chubby arms to her: "I don't want to sleep."

"Alright, good girl, Youyu." Jingzhi gritted her teeth, stepped forward, picked up the child, and turned to hand him to Wu. What was bound to happen would happen eventually, there was no escaping it. Ignoring Youyu's crying, she made Wu Ma take the child away.

"Alright..." After dismissing all the servants, You Shiqun sat down, then waved to You Yang and Jingzhi, who were standing there dumbfounded, signaling them to sit down as well: "Now we can talk about the specific issues."

Jingzhi looked at You Shiqun sitting leisurely opposite her, and her brain instantly became alert, ready for anything.

She had no idea what You Shiqun was up to.

But it was Ding Lei who spoke first, "I just heard a very strange story, about pirates?" She deliberately used a tone that broke the silence to attract everyone's attention.

"This, it's probably just a child's imagination. The one who saved us, Touche, teased him and told Squid that he was a pirate," You Yang hurriedly explained. "

A captain?" You Shiqun politely took over his words, his tone surprisingly calm: "You also came back on his ship?"

"It was someone else's ship." You Yang didn't want to mention the Cat's Eye, at least not now.

"Don't talk about pirates," Xue Ran said, slightly tense, "It's getting late, I think we should say goodbye." He was very nervous that the secret between Jingzhi and him would be exposed, and now his mother was already suspicious.

Jingzhi also nervously echoed, "Yes, me too, I'll go with you."

"You can't go." You Yang grabbed her wrist: "Let's just be frank today."

"Let her go," Xue Ran ignored his mother pulling him aside and almost rushed forward to drag Jingzhi away.

Yu Shiqun's slightly lazy laughter interrupted the tense standoff between the two sworn enemies. “Forget it, these aren’t the main issues. The key is the child.”

“Yes,” You Yang immediately responded to his father’s question, “I’m hoping to get to the point as soon as possible. The child…”

Xue’s mother finally couldn’t help but ask, “Jingzhi, this child…”

You Yang answered her, “Auntie, the squid is Jingzhi’s and my child.”

“I knew it?” Xue’s mother, who had already stood up, slumped back onto the sofa. “I knew it…”

Ding Lei looked at Jingzhi’s pale face. “Auntie, things aren’t as you think. You must hear our explanation.”

“Hear what explanation?” Xue’s mother shook her head. “Is that even a question? We already have a child.”

She suddenly looked up at Jingzhi, her eyes filled with deep reluctance. “Child, I’m sorry.”

“Mom…” Jingzhi rushed over and knelt before her. “It’s not as you think. He and I…”

“We were in a free-love relationship,” You Yang continued. “Back then, I was too immature and hurt Jingzhi. I apologize…” “In

a love relationship?” Xue’s mother turned to look at Xue Ran suspiciously. It was rare for Xue Ran to be so cooperative. “Yes, my sister was deceived by this boy back then. She didn’t dare tell you.”

“But…”

“Well, allow me to interject,” You Shiqun crossed his legs, adjusting to a more comfortable sitting position, “Back then, both children were immature, so I took it upon myself to resolve the issue with money after Jingzhi gave birth.”

Money…

finally, the topic of money was being discussed, and Xue’s mother was filled with unease: “So, it still involves money…”

“You could say that,” You Shiqun continued. She was 20, not yet of legal marriage age, and You Yang had taken her to the seaside villa to give birth. Legally, he had already committed kidnapping.

Kidnapping? Of course not…

You Yang breathed a sigh of relief. You Shiqun was helping him steer the situation in his favor; now it was up to him.

“Dad,” You Yang replied coldly, “Jingzhi and I love each other. Even though I was in a coma after the car accident, you had no reason to send Jingzhi away.”

“I had no reason?”

Jingzhi suddenly felt You Shiqun staring intently at her, and she panicked, trembling.

“You have a reason,” Jingzhi suddenly interrupted him, “because you’re afraid I’m a gold digger.”

You Shiqun smiled. Unconsciously, Jingzhi had shed her fragile shell; he liked this side of her.

“Alright, alright…” Xue’s mother was already confused by their conversation. “So, what’s the truth?” "

The truth," You Yang paused, "is that I've fallen in love with your daughter, and now, I solemnly request that you, Aunt, allow her to marry me."

...

...

...

"This..." Xue's mother looked at Jingzhi and You Yang: "It seems I have no choice but to agree."

"However..." You Yang added, and everyone turned to look at him curiously, "Before that, the thing I most want to know is, where did you find Jingzhi?"

Hearing his question, Jingzhi was stunned. You Yang was pressing her relentlessly; what exactly did he want to know?

"I want to know, when Jingzhi was found, besides this jade, what else did she have on her?"

Xue's mother blinked: "Are you asking about Jingzhi's background?"

"Yes." You Yang nodded.

The scene immediately fell silent. Everyone stared at Xue's mother. She had never mentioned the details of how Jingzhi was found, even when Jingzhi kept asking.

Xue's mother looked at Jingzhi, then at Xue Ran: "When Jingzhi was found, Xue Ran wasn't even born yet."

A look of recollection crossed her face: "Back then, I had been married for several years but still didn't have a child, so I went to the hospital for a checkup... When I went to pick up the test results... I heard a baby crying in the hospital corridor..." Jingzhi

suddenly gripped Youyang's fingers tightly. It was the first time she had heard this story, and her palms were sweaty with nervousness.

Xue's mother continued, "I searched the corridor, but it was empty. There was nothing on the benches. I thought I had misheard, but just as I was about to leave, the crying started again."

"In the end, it was the child's father who found it," she suddenly stopped, took out a handkerchief, and wiped away the tears that slid down her face, "In the trash can..."

"Trash can?" Everyone was astonished, especially Youyang. He turned to look at You Shiqun, who had a thoughtful expression on his face. Could it be that You Shiqun had someone throw Jingzhi into the hospital trash can back then?

"Yes, back then, the hospital trash cans were actually just big bins taller than a person, filled with garbage and miscellaneous items." "Mother Xue continued slowly, recalling, "I remember my husband ran over and pulled out a bunch of discarded medicine boxes. And under those things, there was a tiny baby swaddle."

Suddenly, a cracking sound rang out, and the crystal glass in You Shiqun's hand broke. His face turned pale. "You mean the baby was thrown in the trash can? Under a pile of medical waste?"

"Yes, it was a very cold December. There was no heating in the hospital corridor, and the baby was almost frozen stiff."

You Shiqun suddenly stood up. "No, no way..." He gasped for breath, then strode away as if a ghost were chasing him.

Chapter Ninety-Nine

: Torture. Everyone present was stunned by You Shiqun's departure. Mother Xue also paused, turning to look at You Yang. "Child, does your father think our Jingzhi's status is lowly? Sigh, this is the first time I've said this."

"No," You Yang shook his head firmly, "Dad is just sad for Jingzhi. Let's continue. " “

You all say,” Ding Lei, sensing her distance and knowing she was an outsider and shouldn’t listen too much, said, “I’ll go see Mr. You.” She rose gently, gave Jingzhi an encouraging smile, and then headed for the study. The study door wasn’t locked, and after knocking twice, Ding Lei simply opened the half-closed door.

It was a very spacious study, the lights off. Ding Lei’s eyes couldn’t adjust to the darkness for a moment. She blinked, then saw You Shiqun standing by the French windows, leaning against them, looking down at the lush trees on the hillside. Hearing Ding Lei open the door, he immediately straightened up.

“What are you doing here?” You Shiqun asked coldly, his silhouette silhouetted against the scenery outside the window in the darkness.

“What do you think?” Ding Lei retorted, “Don’t you, who always prides yourself on being a Casanova, know why I’m here?”

You Shiqun shrugged wearily: “I can’t guess. To be precise, even if I could see into every woman’s heart, I still couldn’t know what you might do at any moment. ” Ding Lei smiled, reflecting on her recent behavior. She really couldn't blame You Shiqun for being so crazy about her—driven mad by her.

The first time, she stormed into his company in a rage and slapped him hard, and then the two of them surprisingly managed to calmly agree on a mutually beneficial expedient. After spending these past few days together, Ding Lei discovered he was actually a rather intelligent partner—as long as marriage wasn't mentioned, this man could be an ideal lover.

And now, watching You Shiqun troubled by inexplicable distress, Ding Lei seemed to empathize. Almost impulsively, she stepped forward, imagining herself as a little bird nestled against him, wrapping her arms around his neck, just hoping to bring a smile to his face.

This thought troubled her, and she shook her head. She walked forward, "You seemed to react too strongly after hearing about Jingzhi's background."

"What did you say?" "You Shiqun seemed lost in thought again. He asked blankly, as if she were speaking in a language he couldn't understand.

Ding Lei watched his confused expression, and her heart suddenly tightened. She wondered if anyone had ever noticed that You Shiqun could be nervous before—he was such an outstanding man, You Shiqun had always been the epitome of strength, immune to vulnerability.

"You're nervous," Ding Lei slowly moved closer to him, able to feel his tension.

"Really?" You Shiqun smiled somewhat unsteadily, "Then, do you have a way to make me not nervous?"

Ding Lei could see a teasing smile slowly spreading across his angular face, and at that moment, in the darkness, when he shed his disguise, she found him incredibly handsome.

"It's simple, just a kiss is enough," she blurted out impulsively, then almost immediately bit off her tongue. Damn it, she was playing with fire.

You Shiqun seemed surprised by her words, then he laughed, a deep and magnetic laugh: "If that's what you want." The next

moment, he grabbed her suddenly, his firm lips demanding her response almost rudely, his strong arms encircling her, lifting her up and pressing her tightly against his body.

Then You Shiqun stopped, and he asked in a low, almost hoarse voice, "Are you sure?"

Ding Lei trembled slightly in his arms. You Shiqun seemed to be waiting for her rejection, but to his surprise, Ding Lei did not push him away, but instead pressed herself even closer to him.

“I’m sure, I want this kiss.” Ding Lei laughed hoarsely. “Isn’t this what we’ve always wanted?”

“As expected…” You Shiqun tightened his grip on her arm, pulling her into his embrace. He asked in a deliberately careless and rude tone, “Ding Lei, do you know how irrational it is for a woman to deliberately arouse a man’s desire for days on end?”

“Am I?” Ding Lei smiled, then shook her head. “Men, do you know how frustrating it is for a woman if a man doesn’t react at all to this teasing?”

“Oh, so that’s how it is…” You Shiqun murmured softly. “I should apologize for not taking care of the lady’s needs?”

He slowly lifted Ding Lei up and placed her on the huge solid wood desk. His nimble fingers seemed to possess a strange magic; under his caresses, Ding Lei seemed to turn into a pool of soft, ethereal spring water.

"Why?" You Shiqun asked her softly, "Why did you come?"

"I don't know," Ding Lei shook her head, "Maybe I'm following my heart? Or...desire?"

"I suddenly find you quite interesting." You Shiqun's voice was hoarse: "Aren't you afraid...after this, you'll fall in love with me?"

"Please, we're all adults," Ding Lei said softly, "Just think of it as me doing a good deed because you're in a bad mood, why make such a big deal out of it."

"Doing a good deed?" You Shiqun chuckled softly, slowly opening her legs, his fingers following the edge of her lace panties along her stockings: "This is the first time I've heard of that term."

Ding Lei seemed to feel the heat pressing against him between her legs, she suddenly opened her eyes wide, but You Shiqun didn't immediately enter her, she swallowed hard: "Fine, if you want to, then come, if you don't, then let me go, this is so troublesome."

A groan escaped from You Shiqun's throat, all his self-control finally crumbled. He slowly let himself fall into the warmth of this woman, deeper and deeper each time!

"Ah~~~~~~~" Ding Lei cried out softly the moment he was completely inside her. She could feel the cold desk beneath her, while he was determined to give her an almost explosive fullness.

Each slow thrust was accompanied by her low, rapid breathing. Then, he began to increase his speed until the ultimate pleasure finally erupted. You Shiqun buried himself deeply in her, holding her tightly…

Slowly, their breathing became even, and Ding Lei smiled in his arms: “A great experience.”

“I thought it was good too,” You Shiqun pulled away from her, “but next time, don’t do it in such a cold and hard place.” He lifted her chin. “So, what do you want to know?”

Ding Lei said simply and frankly, “I don’t want to know anything.”

The smile on his lips slowly faded. “My God, woman, can’t you say something else to satisfy my pride?”

“Oh, okay, so this should be considered a way to relieve stress?” Ding Lei lazily got up. “If you want to hear something cheesy, I can tell you, I’ve fallen in love with you.”

“Then forget it.” You Shiqun quickly put on his clothes. “What do you really want to know?”

“I don’t want to know anything,” Ding Lei gracefully rose, pulling her skirt back into place. “I just want to know if you’re really as the rumors say, a complete playboy.”

“Oh, what’s the result?”

Ding Lei shrugged. “Not bad for your age.”

“Just that?”

“What else?” Ding Lei’s gaze suddenly darkened. “Let her go. She’s not right for you.”

“Who? Who did you say?” You Shiqun asked, fastening his cufflinks as he looked at her, puzzled.

“You know who I’m talking about,” Ding Lei looked up at his perfect jawline, “Jingzhi… stay away from her. She’s the mother of your grandson, and that will never change.”

“I just realized…” You Shiqun’s eyes gleamed with interest, “You actually sacrificed yourself for Jingzhi?”

“You’re wrong,” Ding Lei smiled, “I would never sacrifice myself for someone else.” She ran her fingers across his face, “You… deserve it…”

The study door clicked shut. You Shiqun stood there blankly for a long time, then muttered a curse under his breath, went to the bar, and poured himself a strong martini, the hot liquid burning his throat.

“Jingzhi…” he murmured, “Are you really that child?”

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