Category: Captivating Beauty

Chapter 49

Xu Jinnan’s surprise was evident.

Xu Yincheng looked at her for a moment. “What’s that expression? Afraid I’ll steal your wife?” he asked playfully, though his serious demeanor and imposing presence didn’t lend themselves to jokes.

Xu Jinnan couldn’t quite place what felt off, then, glancing at Xu Tao’s sullen expression, she understood.

It was Xu Yincheng’s sudden shift in tone.

She realized he only softened his demeanor around her. Otherwise, his expression was usually cold and distant, with a hint of ruthlessness.

“Yes, I am,” she replied, playing along.

“I wouldn’t dare,” Xu Yincheng said, a faint smile playing on his lips. “I’m just following both your super topics.”

“…”

“But the autograph is for a colleague, and the wedding gift was from both of us,” he added.

“What colleague?” Xu Jinnan asked, hoping to glean some information about his background.

His answer was vague. “Haven’t you opened the gift yet? He’s at the same university as your wife, a couple of years ahead of her. He saw her perform in a drama club production and became a fan.” He gestured towards a plate of sliced mangoes a servant had just brought over. “You’ll find out when you open the gift.”

“Oh,” Xu Jinnan said.

“Still giving me that look?” he asked, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Xu Jinnan: “…”

It wasn’t intentional.

She seemed to have developed a “Xu family complex,” analyzing his every word and action.

She couldn’t shake the feeling that someone was out to get her.

“I’ll give it to you tomorrow,” she said.

Xu Yincheng reached out and ruffled her hair. “You’re so stingy.”

Xu Jinnan: “…”

Did he just pat my head?

“You two chat. I have some work to do in the study,” Xu Tao said, standing up. Xu Yincheng’s gaze shifted from Xu Jinnan, his expression turning cold. “Dad, let’s discuss something important,” he said.

Xu Jinnan suspected that if Xu Tao hadn’t been leaving, Xu Yincheng would have continued ignoring him.

“What is it?” Xu Tao asked.

“That land in the North District,” Xu Yincheng replied, leaning back on the sofa, his eyes sharp. “I might have been away for a few months, but I’m not oblivious. Nannan secured that deal. It’s not right to take advantage of her like this.”

“What are you talking about? She’s doing well now, isn’t she? The family supports her. It’s just that the North District project is too big for her to handle on her own,” Xu Tao said.

Xu Jinnan remained silent, listening intently. Was Xu Yincheng trying to get that land for her?

It seemed unlikely.

It might have been possible before the city’s urban planning reached that area, but now, with the government’s support, the development of the amusement park and surrounding areas was underway, and its future value was difficult to estimate.

Xu Tao, who clearly disliked her, would never give her such a valuable asset.

She wanted to see how this played out.

“Nannan, do you want to take over that project?” Xu Yincheng suddenly asked.

Xu Tao frowned. “She can’t handle it. If we give it to her, the project is as good as ruined! Yincheng, you don’t understand the pressure the Xu family is under. The HP Group is practically our equal now. That land is a major source of income for us in the short term! This isn’t a joke!”

Xu Yincheng ignored him. “Nannan?” he asked again, patiently.

Xu Jinnan, noticing Xu Tao’s gaze on her, met his cold, calculating eyes. She was now certain Xu Yincheng had the power to make this happen.

And she was more than happy to make Xu Tao suffer.

It was sickening to see a domestic abuser acting so self-righteous in front of her.

But she couldn’t push him too far, and there was also Xu Li to consider. She was a formidable opponent.

Even if Xu Yincheng genuinely cared for his younger sister, he wouldn’t be in North City forever. Once he left, Xu Tao and Xu Li might retaliate, and she wasn’t strong enough to fight them yet.

She had to think about the future, and about Shen Shu.

Besides, the Xu family’s situation was complex, and she still didn’t understand Xu Yincheng’s motives.

“I’m interested,” she said slowly. “But it’s a large project. I can’t handle the entire thing.”

“Then take half,” Xu Yincheng suggested.

Xu Jinnan paused.

“Alright,” she said, as if reluctantly agreeing.

Xu Tao: “…Yincheng!”

“Dad, it’s settled,” Xu Yincheng said firmly.

…

Upstairs, Shen Shu looked around the room.

A large, framed photo of a nude back, clearly Xu Jinnan’s, hung on the wall.

The room’s decor was similar to the rest of the villa, but the dark curtains made the atmosphere feel heavy and oppressive.

The room was spacious, a sliding door on the left leading to a walk-in closet.

As she was about to leave, she noticed a small desk tucked away in a corner, neatly stacked with books.

A diverse collection, from complex texts on finance and foreign languages, to simple manga and sketchbooks, even a couple of cookbooks.

So that was why Xu Jinnan was such a good cook. Self-taught?

Just then, the door opened.

Xu Jinnan entered, carrying a plate of washed grapes, which she placed on the coffee table by the window. “Have some grapes,” she said.

“Did the conversation not go well?” Shen Shu asked, sitting down opposite her.

Xu Jinnan seemed distracted. “No, it went well,” she replied.

She had just acquired half a billion yuan worth of real estate.

The Xu family had initially purchased the entire plot for two billion. After development, if managed properly, its value would increase tenfold, perhaps even more.

“Marital assets. Happy?” she asked, a smile playing on her lips.

Shen Shu looked at her. “Are you happy?”

Xu Jinnan paused. She was tired, mentally exhausted.

She had been tense since arriving at the Xu residence, unable to fully relax even now.

Before she could reply, a knock came at the door.

“Nannan, I brought you some mangoes. Can I come in?” Lu Yun’s voice called out.

Shen Shu noticed Xu Jinnan’s weariness at the sound of her mother’s voice.

“I’ll get it,” Xu Jinnan said, grabbing Shen Shu’s wrist. “Stay here.”

Lu Yun was hostile towards Shen Shu; she didn’t want to involve her.

She opened the door. Lu Yun’s expression was gentle, her voice warm and motherly. “Nannan, I personally picked these mangoes. They’re very sweet… Can we talk?”

“Let’s talk tomorrow,” Xu Jinnan said.

“Just for a moment. It’s still early,” Lu Yun insisted, her voice dropping to a whisper, as if afraid of being overheard. “Are you avoiding me? You don’t know how much this hurts me. I haven’t been sleeping well. Nannan, are you still angry about last time?” Remembering Shen Shu’s presence in the room, she lowered her voice further. “You know he hasn’t been like that in a long time. That night was just an accident.”

Xu Jinnan took a deep breath, suppressing her anger, and took the mangoes from Lu Yun.

“If it was truly an accident, then he should be the one apologizing to me, not you. Clearly, you don’t think he did anything wrong.”

Lu Yun’s behavior towards her, her excessive concern and protectiveness, sometimes made Xu Jinnan want to ask, Why are you doing this to me?

Of course, Lu Yun would never answer.

If she would, the original Xu Jinnan wouldn’t have sent Wang Zheng to investigate, and Lu Yun wouldn’t have stopped him from revealing the truth.

Xu Jinnan knew there was no point in arguing with her.

While Xu Jinnan wasn’t concerned about being overheard, Lu Yun glanced at the hallway and into the room, her movements natural and subtle. “We’ll talk about this later,” she said.

“But Nannan, please don’t be so cold towards me,” she continued, her eyes reddening. “You used to spend time with me whenever you came home, always listening to me, never like this… I know you don’t always understand, but please believe that everything I do is for you, for your future.”

Xu Jinnan looked at her silently for a moment, then nodded. “I know.”

Lu Yun’s face paled. While Xu Jinnan had been distant in her recent phone calls and messages, it wasn’t as palpable as this face-to-face encounter.

“Nannan, you…”

“Xu Jinnan, can you get me a towel?”

Shen Shu’s voice interrupted her.

Lu Yun’s expression turned cold. Before she could say anything, Xu Jinnan replied, “Okay.”

“Get some rest. We’re going to bed,” she said to Lu Yun, dismissing her.

Lu Yun left, looking like a neglected mother.

Xu Jinnan paused at the doorway for a moment, then closed the door, turning to see Shen Shu, fully dressed, emerging from the bathroom.

“I haven’t even taken a shower yet,” Xu Jinnan said, smiling faintly.

“I was afraid you two would start arguing again,” Shen Shu explained.

“She wouldn’t dare,” Xu Jinnan replied.

Xu Tao was wary of Xu Yincheng, and Lu Yun was even more so.

Xu Jinnan checked the time, wondering if she should have Shen Shu stay at her apartment tonight.

Just then, a servant knocked on the door, bringing a plate of pastries. “Mrs. Lu made these herself,” she said. “She was worried you wouldn’t eat, so she asked me to bring them up.”

“I’m not hungry. Take them back,” Xu Jinnan said, not accepting the plate.

The servant didn’t argue, but as Xu Jinnan was about to close the door, she hesitated. “Third Miss, actually, Mrs. Lu has been…”

Xu Jinnan paused, waiting.

“She hasn’t been sleeping well lately. Her heart has been troubling her. She cries every time she mentions you.”

“Whenever she goes shopping, she always looks for things you like,” the servant continued, biting her lip. “I’ve been working here for seven years. You’re the most important person in her life. It pains me to see her like this.”

“If you don’t mind me saying, you shouldn’t treat her this way.”

Xu Jinnan understood.

The pastries were just an excuse; this was a subtle attack.

Seven years? Xu Jinnan looked at the servant. “This isn’t the first time you’ve said this, is it?”

The servant looked at her, puzzled, and Xu Jinnan continued, “Take these to my brother’s room. And tell my mother that if she sends anything else, I’ll send it to him too.”

She closed the door.

The servant’s words were like needles pricking her heart. She suddenly thought, If the original Xu Jinnan heard this, she would probably feel terrible, blaming herself, wouldn’t she?

Lu Yun was used to manipulating her daughter’s emotions through guilt.

The original Xu Jinnan’s anger and resentment, suppressed and bottled up, would be countered by guilt for her mother’s apparent fragility.

The reasons behind the original Xu Jinnan’s breakdown were complex and heartbreaking.

Xu Jinnan sat down on the armchair, Shen Shu still sitting opposite her. Having overheard the conversation, she wasn’t sure how to comfort Xu Jinnan, but she felt compelled to say something.

“Xu Jinnan.”

“Yes?” Xu Jinnan looked up to see Shen Shu holding out a toothpick with a piece of mango.

“Here,” she said softly. “You like mangoes.”

Xu Jinnan smiled faintly, taking the mango. “Copying me?”

She had done the same thing for Shen Shu at the hospital, in front of Wei Wuqing.

After a moment, she cleared her throat. “Shu Shu, the Xu family is complicated. There are a lot of things I don’t understand. And you’ve seen the situation here. You won’t be comfortable staying here. Why don’t you say you have something urgent to attend to, and I’ll have someone drive you back to Xingcheng?”

Shen Shu looked at her. “Why don’t you just tell me to leave?”

Xu Jinnan: “…”

The Xu family situation was still unresolved, and she had to go to the study tonight. Having Shen Shu here would be inconvenient, and she didn’t want her to get involved.

“Xu Jinnan,” Shen Shu said, “if we were at the Shen residence, would you leave me alone?”

No, Xu Jinnan thought.

Shen Shu’s serious tone made her slightly nervous.

She rarely expressed such strong emotions.

Shen Shu looked at her, taking a deep breath. “Do you really think I’m the type to abandon you when things get tough, to stand by and watch?”

Xu Jinnan didn’t hesitate. “…Of course not.”

“Then do you still want me to leave?”

Xu Jinnan sighed inwardly. She felt conflicted, torn between protecting Shen Shu and wanting her to stay.

She didn’t want Shen Shu to be burdened by the Xu family’s problems, but she also didn’t want her to leave.

“No,” she admitted honestly.

Shen Shu seemed different today.

Her expression softened slightly. “I don’t know what’s going on with your family, but I’ll be here with you, just like you were there for me when I needed you.”

“And you don’t have to pretend to be happy in front of me,” she added softly. “Seeing you pretend is more upsetting than seeing you unhappy.”

“What’s wrong with you today?” Xu Jinnan asked.

The uneaten mango in her hand slipped and fell to the floor.

She didn’t even notice.

Because Shen Shu said something else.

“You want me to be happy, and I want you to be happy too. At least in front of me.”

The chirping of cicadas outside reminded Xu Jinnan of a summer sunset, a single ray of sunlight breaking through the clouds.

“Okay,” she replied softly.

…

It was past 9 p.m.

Usually, Shen Shu would be showering and getting ready for bed by now, but Xu Jinnan was still working, so she asked if Shen Shu wanted to shower first.

Shen Shu shook her head, looking at her phone. “Tong Jia is explaining tomorrow’s schedule.”

They sat at the coffee table, both on their phones.

Xu Jinnan finished first and, remembering something, opened Weibo. Over two hundred notifications, mostly from new followers, and a dozen private messages.

Tong Jia had added her to Shen Shu’s fan group and made her a moderator.

She opened one of the private messages.

ShuShu’sNumberOneFan: [Boss Lady!!]

ShuShu’sNumberOneFan: [Are you the legendary Boss Lady who used her mysterious powers to delete those negative comments and expose those trolls?!]

Xu Jinnan: “…”

That was from last night. There was another message from this afternoon.

ShuShu’sNumberOneFan: [Hello! I’m Shu Shu’s number one fan! We want to organize a fan event for her next month, with banners and signs, to surprise her when she starts filming her new drama. Do you have any ideas?]

Xu Jinnan opened the fan group chat and saw they were discussing the same thing.

ShuShu’sNumberOneFan, also a moderator, seemed to be handling things well, even specifically stating that minors weren’t allowed to contribute financially, although they were welcome to join the group.

ShuShu’sNumberOneFan: [Let’s make a big banner, and some standees. Ten light boards should be enough for now. We can use them later too.]

ShuShu’sPuppy: [How about some merchandise? Keychains or something.]

MyNameIsKing: [I can handle the keychains. You guys take care of the rest. Fifty enough?]

ShuShu’sNumberOneFan: [Let’s not overdo it! It’s not about showing off; it’s about showing our support for Shu Shu! I’m waiting for our Boss Lady to reply. I wonder if she has any plans~]

ShuShu’sNumberOneFan: [I wonder when she’ll be online. Sad emoji]

RichSisterWithStamina: [Hi.jpg]

RichSisterWithStamina: [Go all out. No banners. Rent all the LED screens around the studio. Send me a cost estimate.]

ShuShu’sNumberOneFan: [!! Boss Lady! You’re here!]

ShuShu’sPuppy: […LED screens? The best ones start at 200,000 yuan…]

RichSisterWithStamina: [That’s fine. I’ll give you a budget of five million. Include the production’s name on the screens, and when the lead actors are announced, we’ll send them light boards too.] That way, even if it was extravagant, it wouldn’t be seen as showing off.

[Holy shit, that’s a lot of money…]

[Damn…]

[Damn…]

[Damn…]

…

Xu Jinnan, looking at the string of ellipses, sent ShuShu’sNumberOneFan a private message: [I’ll send you my assistant’s WeChat. Contact her for the funds. Just send her the receipts.]

ShuShu’sNumberOneFan: [!!! Do you need a daughter? The kind who spends money responsibly~]

Xu Jinnan chuckled, then, noticing Shen Shu looking at her, looked up. “It’s almost 10 p.m. Is Tong Jia still talking?”

“So are you,” Shen Shu replied.

“I’m done. What were you two talking about?”

“Work stuff. I have a costume fitting in a couple of days,” Shen Shu said, tapping on her phone. “They’ve cast the lead actress.”

“Who is it?”

“Xia Chun.”

Xu Jinnan paused. “You two are quite the pair. Meeting again like this.”

Shen Shu didn’t reply, turning off her phone and rubbing her eyes. “Do you want to shower first, or should I?” It was a casual question, but Xu Jinnan detected a hint of something in her slightly tired voice.

“You go first,” Xu Jinnan said, standing up. “I’ll find you some pajamas.”

Shen Shu went to her bag. “No need. I brought some,” she said, opening it. She had packed a change of clothes in case Xu Yincheng invited her to stay at the Xu residence.

“Impressive, Shu Shu,” Xu Jinnan commented.

Shen Shu’s lips curved into a faint smile, then quickly disappeared. “Can’t you think of a more original compliment?” She stood by the desk, her slim waist accentuated by her light purple two-piece suit.

Xu Jinnan rubbed her thumb against her forefinger. “You look beautiful. Stunning, in fact. I’ve never seen anyone so beautiful,” she said, repeating the compliment three times.

Shen Shu raised an eyebrow slightly, then turned and went to the bathroom.

…

Xu Jinnan’s bathroom, like the rest of the apartment, was spacious.

Shen Shu pinned up her hair, took a quick shower, and had just finished changing when she heard a loud thud from outside.

Like something heavy falling.

She buttoned up her pajamas and hurried out of the bathroom to see the books from Xu Jinnan’s desk scattered on the floor, the small stool overturned.

Xu Jinnan was crouching down, holding her shin.

“…What are you doing?” Shen Shu asked.

“Nothing. I was looking for a book and knocked over the stool,” Xu Jinnan replied. The stool was heavy, and the thud had sounded like metal hitting the floor. She wondered if she had fractured her shin.

Besides the key in Xu Tao’s study, there was something else she needed to find in the original Xu Jinnan’s room. After finding the notebook at the orphanage, she had wanted to see if there were any clues in the books.

Shen Shu looked at her reddened shin. “Go take a shower,” she said.

Xu Jinnan put the books back on the desk. “Okay.”

The pain in her leg intensified as she walked towards the bathroom, but it was bearable.

She undressed and turned on the shower, then heard a soft noise from outside the bathroom, then silence.

She assumed she had imagined it. The steam from the shower filled the small room, easing her fatigue.

She stretched, the warm water cascading over her body. The rose-scented shower gel filled the air, and she inhaled, catching a faint hint of vanilla beneath the floral fragrance.

She tilted her head back, letting the water wash over her face.

As she emerged from the shower, about to get dressed, her gaze fell on the counter…

A pale lace bra and matching panties lay on a pink towel.

Shen Shu must have left them there to take home later.

As Xu Jinnan folded the towel around them, her fingers brushed against the soft lace, the sensation reminding her of Shen Shu’s smooth skin.

Her hand trembled slightly, her heart racing.

After wrapping them in the towel, she paused, then, worried Shen Shu might be embarrassed, unfolded the towel again.

As she left the bathroom, Shen Shu stood up and went inside.

They exchanged a brief glance, both acting as if nothing had happened.

…

It was past 10 p.m.

Xu Jinnan retrieved a thick blanket from the closet, preparing to lay it out on the floor.

“Your bed is big enough. We can just put the blanket between us,” Shen Shu said.

Even with separate blankets, I still ended up in your bed. What good is a blanket? Xu Jinnan thought.

But she didn’t argue. She would be staying up late tonight anyway; she had more important things to do.

They lay down on opposite sides of the bed.

Xu Jinnan listened to Shen Shu’s even breathing, waiting until 2 a.m. before carefully getting up.

A dim light illuminated the hallway; the villa was silent.

Xu Tao’s study wasn’t far. He kept his documents in a safe, but since Lu Yun cleaned the study every day, the door was usually unlocked.

She just needed to get inside.

As she opened the door, she heard a soft noise from the bedroom and saw Shen Shu approaching, her voice husky with sleep. “What are you doing?”

Shen Shu had noticed Xu Jinnan constantly checking her watch since they went to bed and had guessed she was planning something.

She had woken up as soon as Xu Jinnan got up.

Xu Jinnan: “…”

“Just looking for something. Go back to sleep,” she whispered.

Shen Shu looked at her for a moment. “I’ll keep watch,” she said.

Xu Jinnan: “?”

“Hurry up.”

“…Okay.”

She felt like they were partners in crime.

Xu Jinnan opened the study door, the faint light from the window illuminating the room. The notebook had mentioned a key hidden under a drawer, but Xu Tao’s desk had over a dozen drawers, most of them under the bookshelves.

She started checking them one by one. As she opened a drawer in the third row, Shen Shu entered the room. “Someone’s coming,” she whispered.

Xu Jinnan quickly closed the drawer and went to the door.

The hallway lights suddenly switched on, and she pulled Shen Shu into the room, quickly closing and locking the door. In the dim light filtering through the window, she scanned the room, then noticed the curtains behind the bookshelves weren’t fully drawn.

Just then, they heard Xu Tao’s muffled voice from the hallway, answering a phone call.

Xu Jinnan’s face paled. She pulled Shen Shu behind the bookshelves, which were against a wall, the curtains creating a small, hidden space.

They squeezed into the narrow space, carefully adjusting the curtains to avoid being seen. Shen Shu’s hand, gripping Xu Jinnan’s, was damp with sweat.

Just as they finished, the study door opened.

Xu Jinnan, still holding Shen Shu’s hand, sensing her tension, gently squeezed it, wanting to reassure her.

As she looked down, her lips brushed against Shen Shu’s soft cheek, and she instinctively leaned in…

Chapter 48

After saying this, Xu Yincheng glanced at the passenger seat, then back at Xu Jinnan. “You’re really not going to acknowledge me?”

Xu Jinnan composed herself. “When did you get back?”

“Just this evening.” Xu Yincheng tapped on the car window, gesturing for her to get out. “Bring your wife too.”

Xu Jinnan hesitated, then got out of the car with Shen Shu.

Xu Yincheng was tall, his features handsome and sharp, even in the dim light, his expression cool and aloof, a hint of ruggedness in his demeanor.

He had the air of a military man, but with a touch of worldly experience.

His background had always been a mystery, but based on the Xu family’s reactions and descriptions, he was clearly someone of significance.

“I couldn’t call you back. You know my work is sensitive. I just got my phone back two weeks ago,” he explained, his tone placating, the familiar way he always spoke to the original Xu Jinnan.

“I tried calling you, but you blocked me,” he added, not accusingly, not even waiting for a response, then turning to Shen Shu. “I wasn’t there for your wedding, but I brought a gift.” He gestured to one of the men standing by the car, who opened the back door and retrieved a box.

Xu Yincheng took the box and handed it to Shen Shu.

Shen Shu hesitated, glancing at Xu Jinnan, who nodded, and she accepted the gift.

“Thank you,” she said.

“You’re welcome. I should be thanking you for keeping her out of trouble,” Xu Yincheng replied, glancing at his watch. The warmth in his eyes vanished as he looked away, his expression turning cold and distant. “I have to go. Come home for dinner tomorrow night.”

While he seemed friendly, Xu Jinnan remained wary, unsure of his intentions. “We might not be free,” she said, testing him.

“No time for dinner?” He looked at her, a knowing smile playing on his lips, assuming she was still angry.

Then, his indulgent tone surprised her. “I’m only here for two days. If you’re really busy, I can have the Xu family come to your office for dinner. Just bring your wife.”

Xu Jinnan: “…”

Judging by his expression, she had no doubt he would actually do it.

She didn’t refuse. While she wasn’t sure about his true nature, she had been planning to visit the Xu residence anyway.

–

After the Maybach disappeared from sight, Xu Jinnan stood there for a moment, lost in thought, when Shen Shu asked, “Are you and your brother not close?”

There was a hint of concern in her usually calm voice.

She had noticed Xu Jinnan’s wariness upon seeing him.

She had never met Xu Yincheng before, only heard rumors about his mysterious background, the details unknown.

He had seemed friendly towards Xu Jinnan, but so had Lu Yun, and yet…

“I don’t really remember,” Xu Jinnan replied.

With the multiple personalities excuse, there was no need to elaborate.

Sensing Shen Shu’s concern, she added, “It’s fine. Just act normal tomorrow. You don’t have to worry about this. I can handle it myself.”

She wouldn’t take Shen Shu to the Xu residence.

The Xu family was a dangerous place; she didn’t want to drag Shen Shu into it.

Shen Shu looked at her for a moment, then nodded silently.

–

The next day, Xu Jinnan looked up from her work; it was past 4 p.m. She leaned back in her chair and checked her phone. Lu Yun had sent several messages, asking when she would be coming home.

One message in particular caught her attention: [Nannan, you didn’t say anything to Xu Yincheng, did you?]

Lu Yun’s tone was neutral, but the question revealed a certain apprehension towards Xu Yincheng.

She sent a brief reply: Later, then ignored the other messages.

Her gaze lingered on Shen Shu’s profile picture – a black “X” on a white background.

No messages all day.

She had noticed Shen Shu’s silence since returning from the orphanage yesterday.

Tong Jia had mentioned in the group chat that Shen Shu had a shoot today.

She sent Shen Shu a message: [Home yet?]

After waiting for a while with no response, she finished her work and checked the time. Half an hour had passed.

Still no reply from Shen Shu.

Assuming she was still busy, Xu Jinnan left for the Xu residence. On the way, she saw Tong Jia tagging Shen Shu in the group chat, but Shen Shu hadn’t replied.

Then, a private message from Tong Jia: [@Xu Jinnan CEO Xu, are you home yet? Can you ask Shu Shu to reply to me?]

Xu Jinnan frowned. [@Tong Jia When did she go home?]

Tong Jia: [Around 4 p.m. I drove her back.]

Xu Jinnan immediately called Shen Shu, but the call went straight to voicemail. As she was about to call Zhou Pei and have her drive to Xingcheng International, Shen Shu answered.

“Hello?”

Xu Jinnan’s shoulders relaxed. “What are you doing? Tong Jia is looking for you,” she said casually.

Shen Shu paused. “At your house.”

Then, Xu Jinnan heard Xu Yincheng’s voice in the background. “Tell her to hurry up.”

Xu Jinnan’s face hardened. “Can you leave now?” she asked Shen Shu, her voice laced with concern.

“It’s fine. My phone was in my bag. I’ll explain when you get here,” Shen Shu replied.

Xu Jinnan hung up and told Zhou Pei to hurry.

–

Twenty minutes later, Xu Jinnan entered the Xu residence. Shen Shu was sitting on an armchair in the living room, Xu Tao, Xu Yincheng, and Xu Li also present.

She glanced at Shen Shu, then looked at Xu Tao, whose voice was surprisingly normal. “You’re back?”

Xu Jinnan sat down on the armrest of Shen Shu’s chair, forcing a smile. “Why did you come alone? Why didn’t you wait for me?” Shen Shu wouldn’t have come here on her own. She wanted to know who had brought her here.

She seemed oblivious to Xu Tao’s darkening expression.

Xu Jinnan leaned in close to Shen Shu, putting an arm around her shoulder.

“I had someone pick her up,” Xu Yincheng said, his voice low and calm, a hint of amusement in his tone. “My sister-in-law hasn’t had dinner at the Xu residence before. She needs to familiarize herself with the family.”

Xu Jinnan looked at him. He was smiling faintly, but she couldn’t detect any malice.

His words were also a subtle acknowledgement of Shen Shu’s position as Xu Jinnan’s wife.

Before this, no one in the Xu family had treated Shen Shu with any respect.

They had even suggested a divorce because of her acting career.

What was Xu Yincheng’s game?

Lu Yun emerged from the kitchen.

“Nannan, is there anything else you want to eat? I’ll make it for you,” she said, her voice warm and motherly.

If Xu Jinnan hadn’t seen Lu Yun’s cold and calculating side, hadn’t witnessed her protecting Xu Tao, she might have found the words comforting.

“No, thank you. Anything is fine,” she replied.

“What about you, Yincheng?” Lu Yun asked, turning to him.

Xu Yincheng didn’t even look at her. “Just make whatever Nannan likes.”

Lu Yun’s smile faltered. “Okay.”

Xu Jinnan noticed the subtle interaction.

Both Xu Tao and Lu Yun seemed wary of Xu Yincheng.

Even Xu Li, who usually never missed an opportunity to criticize her, remained silent.

Regardless of Xu Yincheng’s true intentions, he seemed friendly enough, and his attitude towards the rest of the family was far less cordial than towards her.

She suddenly wondered if Xu Tao’s kindness and Lu Yun’s concerned messages were because of Xu Yincheng’s return.

Her suspicion was confirmed during dinner.

Xu Tao sat at the head of the table, Xu Yincheng and Lu Yun on either side of him. Lu Yun had initially wanted Xu Jinnan to sit beside her, but Xu Yincheng had called her over.

“Sit next to me. Let’s catch up.”

Lu Yun didn’t object.

“Brother, did you see what happened to Shen Shu online?” Xu Li finally asked, unable to contain herself.

“Yes, what about it?” Xu Yincheng replied calmly.

Xu Li took a deep breath. “Because of her, even you were almost dragged into it. Don’t you care? That industry is so messy. This kind of thing could happen again… Don’t you care about our family’s reputation?”

Shen Shu, her head bowed, suddenly found a peeled shrimp in her bowl.

Xu Jinnan, as if she hadn’t heard Xu Li’s words, said to Shen Shu, “Eat,” then placed another shrimp in her bowl.

She wasn’t wearing gloves, her slender fingers deftly peeling the shrimp.

Shen Shu understood the message – ignore them. It was her first time at the Xu residence, and the atmosphere was strange, almost suffocating.

Everyone seemed to be hiding something, their thoughts and motives concealed.

It was a familiar feeling for Xu Jinnan.

Xu Yincheng, as if oblivious to their silent exchange, replied to Xu Li, “I’d like to see anyone try to drag me into anything.” His arrogance was unmistakable, the same impression Xu Jinnan had gotten last night. He seemed serious and aloof, but his words were casual, almost flippant.

She was starting to become curious about him.

“I rarely come home. I don’t know when I’ll be back next, so let me make this clear. Nannan is married now, and Shen Shu is my sister-in-law. No one dared to slander her before, and no one will dare to do so now,” he said, his voice calm but firm, his gaze sweeping over the table. “As long as Nannan is happy, no one should interfere in their marriage. Understood?”

His casual tone and words surprised Xu Jinnan.

Xu Li was his biological sister, yet he was defending Shen Shu in front of her? Who was the real family here?

Xu Li, gritting her teeth, put down her chopsticks and remained silent.

Xu Yincheng ignored her, turning to Xu Jinnan and chatting casually. Xu Jinnan responded politely, but the rest of the Xu family, except for Xu Yincheng, looked displeased.

Even Xu Tao remained silent, as if he had no desire to speak.

After dinner, as Xu Yincheng and Xu Tao were playing chess downstairs, Xu Jinnan was about to take Shen Shu upstairs, intending to have her stay at the apartment tonight. She planned to sneak into the study while everyone was asleep.

“Nannan, stay for a while,” Xu Yincheng called out. “Is your wife interested in chess?”

Shen Shu, clearly uncomfortable in this environment, didn’t reply, and Xu Jinnan said, “She’s tired. I’ll let her rest upstairs.” She turned to Shen Shu. “Go on up. I’ll be there soon.”

“Okay,” Shen Shu replied, nodding.

Xu Yincheng looked away, placing a white piece on the board, capturing one of Xu Tao’s black pieces. Xu Jinnan glanced at Xu Tao, whose expression was a mixture of frustration and resentment.

She had seen him angry before, but never this subdued.

“What’s a ‘super topic’?” Xu Yincheng suddenly asked, his tone serious.

Xu Jinnan, momentarily confused, sat down on a nearby armchair and briefly explained it.

“I’m following yours,” he said.

Xu Jinnan: “…?”

“I even checked in.”

Xu Jinnan: “?”

Just then, Xu Tao lost the game.

Xu Yincheng asked if he wanted to play again, but Xu Tao simply waved his hand dismissively, leaning back on the sofa, his interest gone.

Xu Yincheng put down his chess piece and turned to Xu Jinnan, his tone changing completely, a playful glint in his eyes. He leaned closer. “Have your wife sign an autograph for me tomorrow.”

“…”

Xu Jinnan’s expression turned complex.

This wasn’t what she had expected.

 

Chapter 47

Han Wenling returned to her private room, where several others were seated around a rectangular table.

The woman who had entered with her earlier sat down beside her, leaning in close. “Mr. Han, were those Xu Jinnan and Shen Shu just now?”

Han Wenling, catching a whiff of her strong perfume, glanced at her. “You recognized them, didn’t you?”

The woman, oblivious to Han Wenling’s subtle displeasure, continued, “I haven’t had the chance to meet them before. I only saw that trending topic online. I thought I was mistaken… But Xu Jinnan seems different from the rumors.”

Han Wenling took a sip of baijiu, smiling faintly. The Alpha across from her said, “Xu Jinnan has calmed down since getting married. It’s understandable. With a wife like that, I’d stay home every night too.”

“Yeah, and Shen Shu is interesting. Decided to become an actress just like that. She’s surprisingly good. Stunningly beautiful,” another Alpha agreed.

“She is quite interesting,” Han Wenling said.

The Alpha chuckled. “Oh? Not many women earn your praise, Mr. Han. Are you interested? We might not have a chance, but you, Miss Han, are certainly qualified to pursue her.”

Han Wenling’s lips curved into a smile. “I’ll pass. I don’t like trouble.” She never got involved with married women, especially not Xu Jinnan’s wife.

Besides, while Shen Shu was undeniably beautiful, and Han Wenling had found her intriguing, she hadn’t forgotten about the land deal.

Someone had approached the Han family, offering to share information about a plot of land in the North District in exchange for a partnership.

The Han family, naturally, hadn’t passed up the opportunity, making preparations in secret, only to be beaten to the punch by the Xu family.

Later, they had discovered that Shen Shu was the one who had approached them.

While they couldn’t confront her directly, the land had become a valuable asset for the Xu family, infuriating the Han patriarch.

Seeing Xu Jinnan and Shen Shu together, she wondered if the Xu family had deliberately played them.

“Mr. Han, you invited me here, but you’re not even talking to me?”

Han Wenling’s fingers brushed against the woman’s shoulder, stopping her from leaning in closer. “Don’t wear such strong perfume next time,” she said.

The woman’s face fell, a flicker of embarrassment in her eyes.

The others didn’t react; they were used to this. When Han Wenling was interested in a woman, she would shower her with affection and attention, but her interest was often fleeting.

Just like now, calling someone “darling” one moment, then dismissing them the next.

The woman, unable to tolerate such treatment, excused herself and left. Han Wenling didn’t even glance at her, continuing to drink and chat with the others.

She had always disliked strong perfumes.

The last time she had seen this woman, her perfume had been subtle.

Han Wenling suddenly remembered a different scent, a light, sweet fragrance.

She thought of Cai Ying, the naive young lady who genuinely believed she was just a tutor. Han Wenling had been teasing her, replying to her messages sporadically.

She seemed to have received a couple of messages from Cai Ying that afternoon. She took out her phone.

Little Bunny: [Photo]

Little Bunny: [Teacher Han, is this the correct usage of this English term?]

The photo showed a circled question about a common trade term, something Cai Ying shouldn’t need help with.

Han Wenling: [Yes, is that all you wanted to ask?]

Cai Ying’s reply was almost instantaneous.

Cai Ying: [I’ve been improving a lot lately. Are you free sometime? I’d like to treat you to dinner.]

Han Wenling smiled, looking at the message. “What’s so funny?” her friend asked.

“The little bunny is taking the bait,” she replied, her voice laced with amusement.

—

Xu Jinnan had ordered a dual-flavor hot pot, one side spicy, the other mild, but they mostly used the mild side.

“If you’re really worried, I can have someone find photos of Han Ling at the university,” Xu Jinnan offered.

Shen Shu knew she was probably overthinking it, but the thought had crossed her mind, and it bothered her.

Cai Ying was naive and trusting; she would be easily hurt by someone like Han Wenling.

“I doubt it,” Xu Jinnan said. “You’re just being overly protective. Cai Ying might seem soft and easily bullied, but she’s actually quite decisive when it comes to relationships.” Just look at her attitude towards her ex-girlfriend. Despite her heartbreak, she had been able to move on.

Sensing Shen Shu’s gaze, Xu Jinnan paused, placing a piece of beef in her bowl. “Of course, neither of you will encounter any more ‘bad apples’,” she said.

Shen Shu smiled at her quick reassurance, her earlier worry dissipating.

“Just eat,” Xu Jinnan said. “I haven’t eaten all day. I’m starving.”

“Why?”

Xu Jinnan’s phone vibrated several times. “Too busy. Back-to-back meetings,” she replied.

Shu Shu Protection Squad

Tong Jia: [@Shen Shu I met with a few of your top fans this afternoon. There’s one I think would be a good fit. I’ll send you her information tomorrow. We need to start organizing your fan base before things get out of control.]

Shen Shu: [Okay.]

Tong Jia: [@Xu Jinnan CEO Xu, do you mind if Shu Shu’s moderator is a female Alpha?]

Xu Jinnan: “…”

She glanced at Shen Shu, who didn’t seem to react, then typed in the group chat: [Will Shu Shu be interacting directly with the moderator?]

Shen Shu, taking a bite of food, glanced at the message.

Tong Jia: [Yes.]

“What do you think?” Xu Jinnan asked Shen Shu.

Remembering Shen Shu’s reaction at the motel, if there was a possibility of frequent or close interaction, it was best to avoid an Alpha.

“What do you think?” Shen Shu asked, meeting Xu Jinnan’s gaze.

After a brief silence, Xu Jinnan said, “Find someone else?”

“Yes,” Shen Shu replied. “I’ll talk to Tong Jia at the office tomorrow. She’s been working hard.”

Xu Jinnan smiled faintly. “Okay.” She sent Tong Jia a private message.

[How do I become a moderator?]

Tong Jia: [Laughing emoji]

Xu Jinnan: [Transfer of 10,000 yuan]

Tong Jia: [Hello, respected Moderator Daddy! I’m Shu Shu’s agent, Little Tongzi. Pleased to meet you!]

Xu Jinnan: “…”

Xu Jinnan: [?]

Tong Jia: [Laughing emoji]

Tong Jia: [I knew you would ask me to replace the moderator, but I didn’t expect you to ask to be the moderator!]

So, she had been waiting for a bribe.

Tong Jia: [You’re probably too busy, but don’t worry, you have the title now. You don’t have to do anything, just pay up.]

Xu Jinnan: “…?”

Tong Jia: [Hahaha, sorry, CEO Xu, I couldn’t resist. I was just kidding. The person I mentioned earlier isn’t an Alpha. She’s a Beta.]

Xu Jinnan sent a sticker: [Trash.jpg]

Xu Jinnan: [You even lied to Shen Shu?]

Tong Jia: [She knows. Smiling emoji]

Xu Jinnan: [?]

Tong Jia: [Damn, I started this. I deserve this public display of affection. You two are so cute!]

Xu Jinnan turned to Shen Shu, who was calmly sipping her iced tea. “What?” Shen Shu asked, noticing her gaze.

Xu Jinnan smiled faintly, a warmth spreading through her chest. “Nothing.”

Tong Jia had done this to stir up trouble.

And Shen Shu had played along.

Was it to test her reaction? The thought made Xu Jinnan’s heart race.

Another notification from Shu Shu Protection Squad.

Tong Jia: [@Shen Shu Shu Shu, I found someone even better! Perfect, in fact. No one could be more suitable.]

Shen Shu looked at her phone. She wasn’t familiar with the rules of fan management yet. Before she could reply, Tong Jia continued: [She helped a lot with the Ren Xiaoqi incident, she’s wealthy and capable, and most importantly, she’s your biggest fan. She’s been there since the beginning of your super topic, deleting negative comments, staying up all night to promote your posts, reading every single comment…]

Xinxin suddenly chimed in: [What’s her ID? I’ll check her out on Weibo.]

Tong Jia: [RichSisterWithStamina.]

Xinxin: [Whoa, sounds like a total Alpha.]

Tong Jia: [I’m not so sure about that.]

Xu Jinnan: “…”

Shen Shu wiped her mouth with a napkin.

Tong Jia: [Just kidding! Don’t worry, I won’t let you interact with your fans directly or alone. There won’t be any problems.]

Shen Shu: [Okay, I’ll leave it to you.] Tong Jia knew more about these things than she did.

After Tong Jia’s first message, Xu Jinnan had told her not to reveal her identity as the moderator.

Tong Jia had asked why.

Xu Jinnan hadn’t explained, simply transferring another ten thousand yuan as a “hush money” payment.

She wasn’t ashamed of supporting Shen Shu, but Tong Jia’s fawning tone had been a bit much, like a lovesick puppy, and admitting it would be embarrassing.

I’ll tell her later, she thought, taking a bite of potato.

She wasn’t usually concerned about appearances. When had she become so self-conscious around Shen Shu? The thought bubbled up inside her, like the simmering broth in the hot pot.

She glanced at Shen Shu, her gaze unconsciously softening.

She watched as Shen Shu, distracted by her phone, almost burned her lips on a piece of vegetable. Xu Jinnan’s heart skipped a beat.

She picked up the vegetable with her chopsticks, blew on it, and placed it in Shen Shu’s bowl. “Let Tong Jia handle it later. Eat your dinner,” she said.

Shen Shu showed her her phone. “It’s not about that. Lin Wei sent photos of Little Crescent Moon,” she said.

The photo showed Little Crescent Moon sitting on a swing, her hand gripping the rope, her face bright with a sunny smile.

She shouldn’t be called Little Crescent Moon, Xu Jinnan thought. She should be called Little Sunshine.

“She’s so adorable,” she said.

Shen Shu’s lips curved into a smile. “Yes, she is.”

“All the children there are well-behaved.”

“Because they’re in an orphanage.”

Shen Shu put away her phone, then tapped on Xu Jinnan’s contact. “I added her for you.”

Xu Jinnan, still thinking about Shen Shu’s earlier words, looked up. “They have to be well-behaved to be adopted,” Shen Shu explained, her voice soft. “They’re even more well-behaved when adults are around.”

They were all children who had lost their parents, most of them abandoned.

No matter how good the orphanage was, how caring the staff, it couldn’t replace the security of a family.

Like Little Crescent Moon’s eagerness to see Xu Jinnan, they were starved for affection, clinging to any warmth like a precious treasure.

Even then, they still felt insecure and afraid.

“Little Crescent Moon might be smiling now, but she’ll probably cry herself to sleep tonight, after we leave,” Shen Shu said.

Xu Jinnan looked at her, not asking how she knew.

She took a grape-flavored candy from her bag and placed it in Shen Shu’s hand.

“Then let’s visit her together next time,” she said softly.

Shen Shu paused, then closed her hand around the candy. “Okay.”

..

It was past 8 p.m. when they finished dinner. The restaurant was located in the city center, the streets bustling with activity.

Her car was parked in the underground garage of a nearby building, a short walk away. Xu Jinnan suggested walking, and they strolled along the street.

There wasn’t much to see, so they ended up in the supermarket in the basement of the building.

Xu Jinnan wanted to buy a new pair of slippers. Just as they reached the aisle, they overheard a conversation.

“Isn’t that a celebrity? She looks familiar.”

“I think so too. Wait, she’s the one… damn, I can’t remember her name. My boyfriend said she was beautiful.”

Xu Jinnan and Shen Shu exchanged a look and moved away.

A few moments later, Xu Jinnan saw the two women looking at them again. She shielded Shen Shu from their view and pulled her towards the exit.

As they walked, she felt Shen Shu’s hand subtly squeeze hers.

It was barely perceptible, almost like an illusion, yet real.

Perhaps because of this shared moment of intimacy, they seemed to lose interest in shopping, and Xu Jinnan held Shen Shu’s hand all the way back to the car.

They didn’t talk much, but the atmosphere in the car was peaceful and comfortable.

As they reached the entrance of Xingcheng International, Xu Jinnan saw a Maybach parked near the entrance, three men standing beside it – two, a man and a woman, dressed in black T-shirts, flanking the car like bodyguards.

The third man, in a white shirt and black trousers, stood leaning against the car, a cigarette in his hand.

As he looked up, his gaze met Xu Jinnan’s, his sharp eyes softening slightly as a smile played on his lips.

Xu Jinnan narrowed her eyes, assessing him. Friend or foe?

The man straightened up, extinguished his cigarette, and walked towards her car.

Xu Jinnan stopped the car, but didn’t get out, waiting for him to approach. He knocked on the window, and she lowered it slightly.

“So angry you won’t even get out of the car?” he asked, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Xu Jinnan didn’t reply. Who is this guy?

He smiled ruefully. “I’m sorry, okay?”

Xu Jinnan: “…”

Chapter 46 p2

They reached North City half an hour later. Xu Jinnan had a meeting at the office and didn’t have time to change, so she dropped Shen Shu off at her apartment and went straight to work.

After a quick lunch, she went into a meeting, which ended around 3 p.m.

She finally had time to check her messages.

Several messages from Lu Yun were at the top.

Lu Yun: [Nannan, how are you feeling? Can I come visit you?]

Lu Yun: [Why aren’t you answering your phone? Why aren’t you at the office?]

Lu Yun: [Where are you? Call me back when you see this.]

Xu Jinnan felt a sense of aversion towards Lu Yun now. The Xu family’s secrets were unraveling, layer by layer, but she knew it wasn’t the right time to confront them directly.

She sent a brief reply: Busy. In a few days.

She had intended to visit the Xu residence eventually, as the original Xu Jinnan had planned, but she needed time to think.

She quickly scanned the other messages, then opened Tong Jia’s group chat.

Tong Jia had changed the group name to “Shu Shu Protection Squad.”

Xu Jinnan: “…”

Tong Jia replied quickly: [@Xu Jinnan CEO Xu! You’re finally here! What’s wrong? Don’t you like the new group name?]

Tong Jia: [@Shen Shu Shu Shu, what do you think?]

Xu Jinnan ignored her, scrolling through the chat history.

Tong Jia had tagged her while they were driving back from Rongxiao, and she saw their conversation, mostly work-related arrangements.

No wonder Shen Shu had been on her phone the entire time.

She scrolled to the bottom.

Shen Shu: […]

Tong Jia: […Seriously? You two are so in sync!]

Xu Jinnan smiled faintly. [It’s fine. But it’s a bit… suggestive.] She actually liked the name “Shu Shu Protection Squad.”

Tong Jia: [Can you think of a better one? Or we can just use this for now. Since you’re both here, let’s discuss something more exciting.]

Tong Jia and Xinxin were probably together, because Xinxin immediately sent a screenshot.

Tong Jia: [Shu Shu’s super topic has over twenty thousand followers! And the post about her new drama already has almost five thousand comments!]

Tong Jia couldn’t contain her excitement and sent a voice message.

“After Into the Dream airs, Director Zhang’s new drama will be almost finished. I don’t recommend taking on multiple projects at the same time. We’ll focus on promotion and maintaining your popularity, but we also have to be selective about scripts and prioritize quality over quantity. That way, you won’t be overwhelmed, and we won’t overexpose you.”

So, Shen Shu’s meeting with the director had gone well; the new drama was confirmed.

“One more thing. With your growing fan base, we need to consider fan management, specifically appointing moderators for your fan groups and organizing events, like airport greetings and promotional activities…”

Xu Jinnan listened to the message, then Shen Shu replied: [Sounds good. I agree.]

Shen Shu: [As for fan management, I haven’t even finished a single project yet. Most of my followers are probably from the recent trending topics. The actual fan base is probably much smaller. Can we wait on the fan groups?]

Tong Jia: [It doesn’t matter how they found you. They’re your fans now. And my dear, you’re underestimating yourself. You have no idea how many people adore you! Right, CEO Xu?]

Xu Jinnan, leaning back in her chair, was suddenly addressed. She typed: [Yes, she’s adorable.]

Tong Jia: [You two are so cute! I’m starting to ship you!]

Xu Jinnan had been busy with the live streaming platform these past two days, while Shen Shu, who had signed an endorsement deal and a magazine shoot, was busy with work outside, besides memorizing lines and studying scripts. They hadn’t had much time to talk.

When Xu Jinnan returned home that evening, she knocked on Shen Shu’s door, holding a package. “Delivery,” she said.

Shen Shu, organizing books on her desk, stood up and nodded. “Try it again,” she said, referring to the locked box.

“I’m going to take a shower,” Xu Jinnan replied.

A few minutes later, she emerged from the bathroom, wearing the same black slip dress as before, the lace trim at the bust fitting perfectly, the length reaching her knees.

She had put on the matching satin robe.

“How does it look?” she asked, tying the sash of her robe.

Shen Shu looked at her, her face slightly flushed from the shower, her hair still damp. It looked more than fine; it looked beautiful.

Xu Jinnan had a unique beauty, not conventionally striking, but captivating, her delicate features drawing you in.

“Well?” Xu Jinnan asked, as if prompting her.

She noticed Shen Shu’s lingering gaze and smiled faintly. “I guess it looks alright.”

“It looks good,” Shen Shu murmured softly.

Xu Jinnan, who had simply been trying to ease the awkwardness of being caught staring, hadn’t expected a compliment. Her heart skipped a beat.

As Shen Shu turned away, Xu Jinnan opened the wardrobe. “Try this again,” she said.

“Try what?”

“I thought of a new password. 0323.”

Shen Shu paused, and Xu Jinnan took out the locked box.

She sat down on the armchair behind Shen Shu, placing the box on her lap, her crossed legs revealing a sliver of skin beneath her black slip dress.

She entered the code.

It didn’t work.

“Let’s just break it open,” she muttered, exasperated after hundreds of failed attempts.

She shuffled the numbers, frowning slightly. “0323 sounds familiar, but I can’t remember what it is. This thing is annoying.”

“It’s your parents’ wedding anniversary,” Shen Shu said.

“How do you know?”

“I saw it somewhere,” Shen Shu replied casually, continuing to organize her books. After a long silence, she turned around to see Xu Jinnan staring at the box, lost in thought, her expression troubled.

“It’s not a good date,” Xu Jinnan said, her voice cold.

“What do you mean?”

“Nothing. Just reminded me of something unpleasant,” she replied, snapping out of her thoughts.

Shen Shu had been thinking she should tell Xu Jinnan about the correct password, 3230, not 0323, since Xu Jinnan already knew the date.

But hearing her words, she was glad she hadn’t.

She handed Xu Jinnan a book. “Don’t think about it. Want to read?”

“Full Dress?”

“It’s the novel they’re adapting for my next drama.”

“I’ll take a look,” Xu Jinnan said, putting the box away and chatting briefly with Shen Shu before returning to the guest room.

“Xu Jinnan, are you going home anytime soon?” Shen Shu asked.

Xu Jinnan paused at the doorway, looking back. “Why?”

“Let me know next time you go,” Shen Shu said.

Xu Jinnan tilted her head, puzzled, but Shen Shu didn’t explain, her gaze clear and serious, so she simply nodded. “Okay, I will.”

Back in the guest room, Xu Jinnan lay down on the bed, the book resting on her chest. Her thoughts were racing.

Based on her guess, 0323 was a dangerous date.

The original Xu Jinnan’s words echoed in her mind: When you remember how to use the key, don’t forget, 0323 is the day your life, and theirs, will end. I’ll be waiting.

If it was also Xu Tao and Lu Yun’s wedding anniversary, it made things even more complicated.

A wedding could be the beginning of a happy family, or the beginning of a tragedy.

Xu Jinnan sighed, unconsciously tightening her grip on the book, as if seeking comfort from its familiar weight.

…

Two days later, busy at the office, Xu Jinnan hadn’t had time to eat, and then Tong Jia, of all people, sent a photo of herself and Qiao Rui having hot pot in the group chat.

Xu Jinnan’s stomach rumbled, and knowing Shen Shu was free that afternoon, she sent her a message.

[Home?]

Shen Shu: [Yes. Are you coming home for dinner?]

Shen Shu: [Easy to cook.]

Xu Jinnan smiled at her phone. [Are you saying you won’t cook for me if I don’t ask first?]

After a few seconds, assuming Shen Shu wouldn’t reply, she sent another message. [Let’s have hot pot tonight?]

[Okay.]

Just as they agreed, Cai Ying’s message popped up in the group chat.

Cai Ying: [Bored! What are you two doing?]

Shen Shu: [At home.]

Cai Ying: [I want to come over and hang out, but my dad is giving me an exam in a few days, and he made it even harder! I have to study! He gave me this the other day… it’s so difficult!!!! Look!]

Cai Ying: [Photo]

Xu Jinnan clicked on the photo, recognizing several obscure import/export terms.

Xu Jinnan: [Don’t you have a tutor? What are you afraid of?]

Cai Ying: [She’s busy these past few days, not replying to my messages. I don’t think I can seduce her anymore.]

Xu Jinnan: [Just focus on your studies. Seduction isn’t your forte.]

Cai Ying: [Shut up!]

Shen Shu: [If your father is giving you more difficult material, it means you’re improving! Great job!]

Cai Ying: [You’re the best, Shu Shu!]

Cai Ying: [@Xu Jinnan Just you wait! When I’m free, I’ll monopolize Shu Shu and drive you crazy!]

Xu Jinnan chuckled. [Let’s see about that.jpg]

…

A little after 6 p.m., Xu Jinnan met Shen Shu at a high-end hot pot restaurant Zhou Pei had recommended, with a wide variety of options.

Tonight, it was all about Tong Jia’s favorite spicy broth.

The restaurant’s decor and service were excellent. As the waiter led them to their private room, Xu Jinnan heard a familiar voice.

She turned around and saw Han Wenling, her fox-like eyes meeting hers.

Han Wenling was on the phone. Seeing Xu Jinnan and Shen Shu, she paused, then said, “Come in, darling.” She hung up and smiled at them.

“It’s been a while,” she said.

“It has, Mr. Han,” Xu Jinnan replied.

Han Wenling’s lips curved into a smile. “It’s rare to see Miss Xu out and about since the wedding,” she said, glancing at Shen Shu.

Xu Jinnan casually placed a hand on Shen Shu’s shoulder. “Is that so? I occasionally hear about your own… exploits.” Now that Han Wenfang was in their group chat, the two sisters were constantly bickering, their relationship similar to Xu Jinnan and Xu Li’s. She had seen Han Wenfang complaining about her older sister to Chen Bo in the group chat.

Han Wenling was a notorious heartbreaker.

Just then, a woman called out to her from a few tables away. “Mr. Han, you said you would meet me outside.”

Han Wenling’s expression didn’t change. She gestured towards the room behind her. “Well, I won’t disturb your romantic dinner,” she said to Xu Jinnan and Shen Shu, then left.

Xu Jinnan exchanged a brief look with Han Wenling, then followed Shen Shu into their private room.

“No wonder Cai Ying’s tutor sounded familiar. Han Ling, Han Wenling. Just one character different,” Shen Shu said. “She’s a schemer.”

“Mm.” Xu Jinnan, seeing her expression, realized she was overthinking it. “I was just joking. Don’t worry about it,” she said, sitting down beside Shen Shu and leaning in close, her voice half-teasing, half-serious. “If Han Wenling tried anything, I’d rip her head off.”

Chapter 46 p1

Xu Jinnan pinched herself, her mind snapping back to reality.

She averted her gaze from Shen Shu’s pale neck, focusing on her hair, loosely gathered at the nape.

They were only inches apart; a slight movement would bring their bodies together.

The air conditioning was set to 25 degrees, but the shared blanket felt scorching against her skin, the tingling in her scent gland intensifying, the slight sting replaced by a wave of heat and a desire to be closer.

The noises from the next room had subsided.

And Shen Shu, exhausted from the day, hadn’t woken up.

Thank goodness.

Crawling into someone’s bed wasn’t exactly something to be proud of.

Xu Jinnan exhaled silently, carefully pulling the blanket away and draping it over Shen Shu, then retrieving her own from the floor.

It wasn’t a full-blown rut, but the signs were there.

Fortunately, she had brought her bag, and the suppressants.

She took her bag and quietly went to the bathroom, closing the door behind her.

The green syringe contained AOH suppressants, specifically designed for secondary differentiators, still in the trial phase.

A single dim light bulb illuminated the small bathroom, the mirror barely large enough to see her reflection. She removed the plastic cap from the syringe and, holding it up to the mirror, angled her body to locate her scent gland.

She could feel it, but she wasn’t experienced with self-injecting, and her hands, still slightly shaky from the aftereffects of Yin Xue’s drug, weren’t steady.

She missed on the first attempt, the sting of the needle sharp and precise, the sensation of puncturing skin unmistakable.

The original Xu Jinnan had disliked taking medication. During her dysfunctional Omega phase, she had preferred injections, directly into her scent gland, even using specially modified, thicker needles.

Seeking stimulation through physical pain.

For a fleeting moment, Xu Jinnan understood.

She couldn’t see clearly in the dim light, so she used the tip of the needle to locate her scent gland. Just as she found it, a knock came at the bathroom door.

“What’s wrong?” Shen Shu’s sleepy voice asked.

The lock was broken, and the door creaked open, revealing half of Xu Jinnan’s body.

“Oh, nothing. Do you need to use the bathroom?” she asked, frustrated by her inability to inject herself, blaming the poor lighting.

Shen Shu, seeing her fully dressed, pushed the door open and noticed the redness on the back of Xu Jinnan’s neck, the slightly swollen scent gland, and two small puncture wounds.

She was reminded of their wedding night.

Xu Jinnan’s clumsy attempts at self-injecting hadn’t seemed genuine at the time. She had assumed it was an act.

“Give it to me,” she said, holding out her hand.

Xu Jinnan looked at her, then handed her the syringe.

She crouched down slightly to make it easier for Shen Shu.

Shen Shu’s cool hand touched the back of her neck.

Xu Jinnan looked up at the mirror, watching as Shen Shu, her long eyelashes casting shadows on her cheeks, carefully inserted the needle.

She couldn’t help but moan softly as the needle pierced her skin.

At the same moment, a loud, passionate moan, almost a cry of ecstasy, echoed from the next room.

Xu Jinnan: “…”

Shen Shu: “…”

They had both been ignoring the noises from next door, but this sudden outburst made them both freeze, Shen Shu’s hand trembling slightly, the sting in Xu Jinnan’s scent gland intensifying.

Shen Shu withdrew the needle, glancing at the small puncture wounds on Xu Jinnan’s neck, then looked away. “Don’t try to do this yourself next time,” she said.

“Why not? I’m perfectly capable,” Xu Jinnan retorted.

Shen Shu didn’t reply, turning on the bathroom light.

They left the bathroom together.

It was past 4 a.m. After being woken up and hearing those noises, anyone would be thinking about certain things.

Xu Jinnan was wide awake. She picked up her phone.

“Aren’t you going back to sleep?” Shen Shu asked, standing by the bed.

Xu Jinnan gestured towards the next room. “Can you sleep?”

Shen Shu paused, as if reaching a conclusion. “That’s why you injected yourself,” she said calmly, assuming Xu Jinnan hadn’t understood. “You couldn’t resist.”

Xu Jinnan chuckled. “I can even resist you…” …so a little moaning isn’t going to bother me.

She swallowed the rest of the sentence.

She had become too comfortable around Shen Shu lately, her words often escaping before she could think them through.

“Resist what?” Shen Shu asked, her eyes narrowing slightly.

“It’s nothing. It’s not that big of a deal,” Xu Jinnan said casually. Hearing suggestive noises and actually being aroused by them were two different things.

After a few seconds, she glanced up from her phone to see a playful smile on Shen Shu’s lips. “After all, you’re Teacher Xu,” she said.

Xu Jinnan chuckled.

The atmosphere between them was much more relaxed than when they had arrived at the motel last night.

The noises from next door subsided, and Shen Shu sat up on the bed, pulling back the covers. “Are you sure you don’t want to sleep?”

There was a hint of weariness in her voice, and Xu Jinnan didn’t want to sit there in the dark with the lights on, so she simply said, “I’ll sleep,” as if nothing had happened.

She didn’t sleep for more than two hours, so she didn’t move much.

Since Shen Shu had a meeting with the director that afternoon, they woke up at 7 a.m., both feeling exhausted.

They went to a nearby supermarket and bought some toys and snacks for Little Crescent Moon.

At the orphanage, after visiting with Little Crescent Moon, Xu Jinnan went to talk to the director.

“Don’t worry, we’re taking good care of her. The government is also providing support, so her education won’t be neglected. The only thing she lacks is a mother’s love,” the director said.

Xu Jinnan’s opinion of the director improved further. After finding the orphanage, she had looked up the director’s name in the original Xu Jinnan’s bank records and discovered regular payments, quite substantial amounts, in the past few months.

She had initially assumed the director’s warmth was just a calculated attempt to secure funding.

But that clearly wasn’t the case. The orphanage was well-maintained, a sign of genuine care and dedication.

The director’s words, while subtle, were easy to understand.

Xu Jinnan smiled and nodded. “I understand. But due to some personal circumstances, I can’t take her in right now. I’ll leave her in your care for the time being.”

The director’s expression didn’t change. “Of course, I understand.”

“One more thing,” Xu Jinnan said. “If anyone besides my wife and I comes looking for Little Crescent Moon, please call me.”

The director looked at her. Miss Xu had rarely shown any interest in Little Crescent Moon before, her attitude usually cold and impatient. She had changed, becoming more approachable.

She waited for Xu Jinnan to continue.

“Due to some family issues, they don’t approve of Little Crescent Moon. They might even try to harm her,” Xu Jinnan explained.

The director paused. “Miss Xu, if you don’t mind me saying, the child is innocent. Are you and Miss Yin planning to leave her here permanently?”

“I can’t answer that right now,” Xu Jinnan said honestly.

She understood the director’s implication – she wanted her to take Little Crescent Moon home.

She had briefly considered it, after seeing Shen Shu and Little Crescent Moon on the swings.

But she had quickly dismissed the idea.

Yin Xue’s imprisonment was temporary; she would be released eventually.

And she was a ticking time bomb. If they took Little Crescent Moon home, there was no telling what Yin Xue might do.

She could endanger Shen Shu, or even harm the child.

Besides, there were too many uncertainties in Xu Jinnan’s own life right now… It wasn’t the right time to consider adoption.

“I see,” the director said, a hint of disappointment in her eyes despite her smile.

“I’ll visit her often,” Xu Jinnan assured her.

“That would be wonderful.”

…

Leaving the director’s office, Xu Jinnan returned to Little Crescent Moon’s room. The little girl was asleep, her small, rosy lips slightly parted, as if she was dreaming of something delicious.

Xu Jinnan didn’t wake her. Before leaving, she took out the sketchbook and drew something on the last page.

A garden.

Using colored pencils, she drew a vibrant garden filled with dragonflies, butterflies, and bees. She wanted to show Little Crescent Moon that the world wasn’t just black and white, that there was more to life than just being a bird.

“Add a message,” Shen Shu said.

“You write it,” Xu Jinnan replied, handing her the pencil.

Shen Shu bent down and wrote: Little Crescent Moon is the most adorable child in the world. Everyone loves you. Be happy every day! Love.

Xu Jinnan looked at the message, then at Shen Shu’s calm expression, and smiled.

Was this what they called “Gap Moe”?

…

As they drove back to North City, Xu Jinnan started feeling hungry. She had skipped lunch to save time and was about to ask Shen Shu if she was hungry too when she noticed Shen Shu was busy on her phone, seemingly engrossed in a conversation.

A few minutes later, as they waited at a red light, Shen Shu was still on her phone. “Doesn’t staring at your phone make you dizzy?” Xu Jinnan asked.

“It’s fine,” Shen Shu replied.

“Okay. Are you hungry?”

“No.”

Seeing her engrossed in her conversation, Xu Jinnan looked away, not wanting to disturb her.

After a moment, Shen Shu looked up. “Are you hungry?”

“A little. There’s a lot of traffic. We can eat when we get back if you’re not hungry,” Xu Jinnan replied, her gaze fixed on the road ahead.

Shen Shu opened the glove compartment and took out a few small pastries, the ones Little Crescent Moon had given her before they left the orphanage, telling her to share them with Xu Jinnan.

She opened a package and offered it to Xu Jinnan.

Xu Jinnan glanced at it. “Just put it there for now. I’m merging onto the highway.”

A few seconds later, the pastry appeared by her lips, and she took a bite without hesitation.

It was quite good.

“Want another one?” Shen Shu asked.

Xu Jinnan didn’t want to impose, but honesty was important. “Yes, please.”

…

 

 

Chapter 45

Dinner at the Yuhua Orphanage was at six o’clock. Sixty-some children filled the dining hall, and Xu Jinnan and Shen Shu decided to stay and eat with Little Crescent Moon.

Like the exterior, the dining hall was decorated with cheerful cartoon characters, the tables and chairs painted in pink and blue. Children over three ate by themselves, while the younger ones were assisted by caregivers.

Xu Jinnan was slightly surprised by the orderly environment and the relatively healthy, though simple, meal of rice, vegetables, and sliced grapes and apples.

The children were well-behaved, eating quietly.

“They’re so well-behaved,” Xu Jinnan commented.

Shen Shu didn’t reply, sitting down beside Little Crescent Moon.

Xu Jinnan sat opposite them.

Little Crescent Moon’s round eyes crinkled into crescent moons when she smiled, and Xu Jinnan couldn’t help but smile back, offering her a few grapes from her plate.

“Thank you, Auntie Nannan,” Little Crescent Moon said, taking a bite of rice, her cheeks puffing out adorably.

Xu Jinnan’s gaze softened as she watched her.

After a moment, she glanced at Shen Shu, who had been unusually quiet since leaving Little Crescent Moon’s room.

She knew Shen Shu was adopted, but she didn’t know the details of her childhood. Perhaps she had also had a difficult time before being adopted, and Little Crescent Moon’s words had reminded her of it, putting her in a bad mood?

Xu Jinnan offered her the remaining grapes on her plate. “Why are you so quiet?” she asked softly.

“What’s there to say? Just eat,” Shen Shu replied.

As Xu Jinnan was thinking of a response, a familiar scent wafted towards her.

Lin Wei sat down beside her, placing a plate of sliced mangoes on the table. “Miss Xu, these are from the mangoes you brought. I cut some for you,” she said with a smile.

“Those are for the children. Give them to Little Crescent Moon,” Xu Jinnan said.

“Little Crescent Moon is allergic to mangoes. The other children can have them tomorrow. Besides, don’t you like mangoes?” Lin Wei asked, pushing the plate closer to Xu Jinnan. “I tried them. They’re very sweet.”

Xu Jinnan glanced at Shen Shu. “Oh, thank you,” she said.

“You brought them. I should be thanking you.”

Xu Jinnan had chatted with Lin Wei earlier that afternoon, but hadn’t learned anything useful. However, she could tell Lin Wei was a caring caregiver.

As Xu Jinnan was about to offer the mangoes to Shen Shu, Shen Shu placed the grapes Xu Jinnan had given her onto Little Crescent Moon’s plate. “You can have these. I don’t want them,” she said.

Xu Jinnan looked at her for a moment, then decided not to push it.

—

It was 6:30 p.m. after dinner.

The children were sitting in the main hall, listening to a story, and Xu Jinnan, checking the time, said to Shen Shu, “Can you stay with her for a bit?”

Shen Shu looked up. “I’ll explain later,” Xu Jinnan said.

Shen Shu didn’t ask any further questions.

Xu Jinnan went to Little Crescent Moon’s room and locked the door behind her.

That nagging feeling of having missed something had intensified since leaving the room earlier. She felt like she had to come back to find the answer.

She carefully scanned the room, her gaze sweeping over every corner – behind the door, the chairs, the desk, the bookshelves, the wardrobe, the bed.

Then, her gaze stopped on the desk drawer. She opened it and took out the sketchbook.

Flipping through the pages, she felt a connection to the original Xu Jinnan’s emotions – the moments of peace, the moments of despair, the extremes captured in each stroke.

She reached the last page – a dark cloud looming over a caged bird, a small bamboo tube tied to its leg.

She stared at it for a moment, then turned her attention back to the drawer.

She pulled it all the way out, reaching inside and feeling the texture of cardboard… something was taped to the bottom. She pulled it out.

A notebook.

The moment she held it in her hand, the vague feeling she had been experiencing crystallized into a clear understanding.

She sat down at the desk, pulling the small lamp closer, and opened the notebook.

Each page contained a single sentence. As she read, a chill ran down her spine.

– You found it. I should be happy.

– I’m not crazy. I know you’re replacing me.

– Did you know I was so eager for this that you came to replace me? It doesn’t matter.

– Don’t try to erase the maggot-infested memories of my past.

– It’s impossible.

– Once you remember everything, I’m certain you’ll become me. You know you’re being influenced by me. Otherwise, how would you have found this diary?

– Don’t be afraid. Find the devil’s key in Xu Tao’s study. It’s under the drawer, as a reminder.

– My room… no, your room. Go back there.

– When you remember how to use the key, don’t forget, 0323 is the day your life, and theirs, will end. I’ll be waiting.

– I’m giving you my body, my pain, my end. Don’t disappoint me.

– Most importantly, don’t forget to be reborn as a bird.

– We can be friends. I’ll play with you, and you’ll play with me.

– Then, we’ll be free.

Before she arrived, the original Xu Jinnan had sensed something was wrong, but she had simply thought she had multiple personalities.

If Xu Jinnan didn’t have the clear memories of her previous life, she might have doubted her own sanity after reading these cryptic messages.

While some of the sentences were nonsensical, she extracted a few key points.

First: There was a key hidden under the drawer in Xu Tao’s study. This key would unlock something in the original Xu Jinnan’s room.

Second: Whatever it unlocked was dangerous.

Third: 0323 was a date, possibly the day the original Xu Jinnan had planned her revenge.

Xu Jinnan sat at the desk for a long time, then reached a conclusion – she needed to go back to the Xu residence.

The original Xu Jinnan had made it clear that whatever the key unlocked was dangerous, not just for the Xu family, but for her as well.

It was like a time bomb, and she had to know what it was before she could defuse it.

Her gaze lingered on the date, 0323.

It was early September now; March was still six months away. What was the significance of this date?

She remembered the locked box in Shen Shu’s apartment… could this be the password?

As she was thinking, a knock came at the door.

She put the notebook in her bag and opened the door. It was the orphanage director.

“Sorry to interrupt, Miss Xu. I wanted to chat with you, but something came up. Are you leaving tonight, or tomorrow?” she asked, her voice apologetic.

Xu Jinnan wanted to discuss Little Crescent Moon with her. “Is there somewhere I can stay here?” she asked.

“Well, we do have some spare rooms, but they don’t have air conditioning, and the showers aren’t working tonight. A pipe burst this afternoon, and we used all the water for the children… I’m afraid the conditions aren’t very good,” the director explained.

Xu Jinnan didn’t want to impose. She had seen a small hotel in town.

After the director left, she glanced at the sketchbook on the table, then closed the door and left the room.

—

Back in the main hall, she looked around, but couldn’t find Shen Shu or Little Crescent Moon. A little boy, seeing her looking around, tugged at her dress.

“They’re on the swings,” he said.

“Thank you,” Xu Jinnan said with a smile.

The little boy grinned and ran off.

She noticed that the children here were cheerful and well-adjusted. Even Little Crescent Moon, despite her complicated situation with the original Xu Jinnan and Yin Xue, seemed relatively normal… It was a testament to the orphanage’s positive environment.

The director must be doing a good job.

She would have to talk to her tomorrow.

Xu Jinnan walked through the hallway, then, realizing she had taken the wrong turn, followed the sound of a child’s laughter.

She emerged into a small playground, brightly lit by a large lamp, with a sandbox, a slide, and two swing sets.

Little Crescent Moon and Shen Shu were sitting on the swings, their backs to her.

“Okay, Auntie Shen Shu, now it’s my turn to push you!” Little Crescent Moon exclaimed, jumping off her swing and pushing Shen Shu.

“You can’t push me. I’m too heavy,” Shen Shu said, her voice gentle and playful.

Little Crescent Moon insisted, pulling her onto the swing.

Shen Shu sat down, her feet touching the ground. “Be careful, Little Crescent Moon,” she said with a smile.

“Don’t worry, I’m strong!” Little Crescent Moon pushed with all her might, and Shen Shu swung gently back and forth.

“Little Crescent Moon is so strong!” Shen Shu praised.

“Of course! I’m super strong!”

Xu Jinnan smiled, watching them. She walked quietly towards them, then gently tapped Little Crescent Moon’s pigtail.

Little Crescent Moon looked up, surprised, and Xu Jinnan put a finger to her lips, then gestured for her to move aside.

Little Crescent Moon giggled and stepped away, looking like a mischievous little elf.

Shen Shu, feeling the change in momentum, was about to jump off the swing when Xu Jinnan caught her, pulling her back gently.

Shen Shu’s head rested against something soft, and she felt a warmth at her back.

The bright light cast long shadows, and from a distance, with Xu Jinnan’s arms around Shen Shu, they looked like a couple embracing.

“Aww!” Little Crescent Moon exclaimed, covering her eyes with her hands. “So shy!”

Xu Jinnan quickly let go of Shen Shu.

After a moment, she ruffled Little Crescent Moon’s hair. “I was just afraid Auntie Shen Shu would fall,” she explained, then turned to Shen Shu. “Why would you jump off like that? Aren’t you afraid of getting hurt?”

“You startled me,” Shen Shu retorted.

Xu Jinnan: “…”

She had a point.

—

They took Little Crescent Moon back to her room, and a caregiver soon arrived with a small bucket of warm water for her bath.

Xu Jinnan refilled the bucket while Shen Shu helped Little Crescent Moon bathe and change into clean pajamas.

After Little Crescent Moon was tucked into bed, Shen Shu placed the dirty clothes in the laundry cart outside.

“Auntie Nannan,” Little Crescent Moon whispered, beckoning Xu Jinnan closer.

Xu Jinnan leaned in and felt something small in her hand. “Give this to Auntie Shen Shu, and she won’t be angry anymore,” Little Crescent Moon said.

Xu Jinnan looked down at the grape-flavored candy in her palm.

“You could tell she was upset?” she asked, glancing at the doorway and smiling.

Shen Shu hadn’t seemed particularly upset, her expression and tone normal, but there had been something… off. Xu Jinnan attributed it to the emotional impact of the orphanage.

It was past 8 p.m., and after Little Crescent Moon fell asleep, Xu Jinnan and Shen Shu left the orphanage.

As they were leaving, Lin Wei called out to Xu Jinnan.

“Miss Xu, are you leaving?”

“Yes.”

“That’s great! Miss Xu, we haven’t exchanged WeChat contacts yet. Can I add you? That way, I can send you photos of Little Crescent Moon,” she said.

“You two can chat. I’ll be in the car,” Shen Shu said, walking towards the entrance.

Xu Jinnan glanced at her, then said to Lin Wei, “My wife has my phone.”

She had chatted with Lin Wei that afternoon, but hadn’t learned anything useful. However, she had noticed Lin Wei seemed interested in her.

She hadn’t encouraged it. Lin Wei was pretty, with pale skin and a curvy figure, but she wasn’t Xu Jinnan’s type. And she didn’t want to deal with another one of the original Xu Jinnan’s conquests.

The streetlights were dim, flickering intermittently, and it wasn’t until they reached the town that the surroundings became brighter.

The atmosphere in the car was quiet.

Xu Jinnan tried to start a conversation twice, then gave up.

They drove around the small town, finding only one decent-looking hotel – a 99 Motel. It was Saturday night, and most of the rooms were occupied. Fortunately, two adjacent single rooms were available, recently vacated.

Xu Jinnan opened the door to her room.

A small room with a 1.35-meter bed, a tiny bathroom, dim lighting, and the strong smell of disinfectant.

“Should we find another place?” she asked Shen Shu, who was standing outside her room. They could drive back towards the city, even if it meant arriving late.

“Do you mind staying here?” Shen Shu asked.

“I don’t mind. I was just worried you wouldn’t be comfortable,” Xu Jinnan replied. She had never stayed in such a cheap hotel, but it wasn’t unbearable.

Shen Shu hesitated. “Let’s stay here. I don’t want to drive anymore.”

“Okay,” Xu Jinnan said, looking at her. “Get some rest.”

“Mm.”

“Good night.”

“Good night,” Shen Shu replied, opening her own door.

—

The bathroom was tiny, the shower separated from the rest of the room by a thin, faded floral curtain.

After a quick shower, Xu Jinnan lay down on the bed and checked her phone, which was buzzing with notifications – dozens of unread messages, mostly work-related, and a few from Tong Jia’s group chat.

The work messages were about the live streaming platform. The programmers and engineers had already started working, but they were divided on whether to use open-source code or develop their own. Some argued that using existing code would save resources, as live streaming platforms already existed, albeit not widely used, so there was no need to reinvent the wheel.

Others argued for developing their own proprietary code, citing Xu Jinnan’s innovative vision.

The discussion had escalated into an argument.

Xu Jinnan took a sip of water and sent a smiling emoji in the group chat, silencing them instantly.

Xu Jinnan: [If the existing framework is robust enough to meet our design requirements, we can use open-source code. But remember, I want a product that can be imitated, but never surpassed. I’m not a programmer. Whether or not you can achieve this is up to you. I’m only responsible for two things.]

Xu Jinnan: [Funding and results.]

The argument ended.

She returned to her messages and saw Shen Shu’s message in Tong Jia’s group chat.

Shen Shu: [Returning tomorrow afternoon. Meeting with Director Zhang.]

Tong Jia: [Okay. You two are so romantic! A spontaneous road trip?]

Xinxin: [Jealous!]

Xiaodong: [Jealous!]

Shen Shu: [Going to sleep. Talk tomorrow.]

Tong Jia: [@Xu Jinnan CEO Xu’s not saying anything?]

Tong Jia: [Tsk tsk, sleeping already? Good night then.]

Seeing that Shen Shu had said she was going to bed, Xu Jinnan didn’t reply. If she did, Tong Jia, with her loose lips, would never stop.

…

In the next room, Shen Shu scrolled through the chat history, Tong Jia and Xinxin still talking, then turned off her phone.

There was no night light in the room, so she left the bathroom light on and turned off the bedroom light.

She lay down, the window close to the bed, the traffic noise and occasional chatter from the hallway filtering through the thin walls.

She placed her jacket on the pillow and pulled the blanket up to her chest.

She couldn’t sleep, tossing and turning for a long time.

Just as she was drifting off, a loud banging on the door jolted her awake.

Another bang.

“Open the door! You bitch! Open the fucking door!”

Shen Shu grabbed her phone and took a few steps towards the door, instinctively dialing Xu Jinnan’s number, then stopped.

A strong, unpleasant Alpha scent seeped through the crack under the door.

She frowned, taking a step back.

The banging intensified.

“Fuck, who are you? Get off me!”

“You’ve got the wrong room.”

Shen Shu heard a familiar voice and sighed in relief.

“Mind your own business! Go back to your room! Hey! Let go of me!”

“Get lost,” Xu Jinnan’s cold voice said, followed by a thud.

Shen Shu heard a whimper, then the sound of someone scrambling away.

A top-tier Alpha, even without actively releasing pheromones, could still exert a natural dominance over lower-ranking Alphas, Betas, and Omegas. The drunk Alpha’s scent had been instantly suppressed by Xu Jinnan’s presence.

After the man stumbled away, Xu Jinnan knocked softly on Shen Shu’s door. “Shen Shu, it’s me.”

The door opened immediately.

Seeing Shen Shu’s pale face, Xu Jinnan stepped closer. “Are you okay?”

Shen Shu shook her head. She had simply been repulsed by the Alpha’s scent.

Xu Jinnan followed her into the room.

The Alpha’s rank had been low, and his pheromones shouldn’t have affected an S-class Omega like Shen Shu, but she still looked shaken.

Remembering Shen Shu’s aversion to Alphas, and the flicker of fear she had seen in her eyes when she opened the door, Xu Jinnan opened a bottle of water and handed it to her. “Have some water.”

Shen Shu took the bottle, but didn’t drink.

After a moment, she said, “Go back to your room and get some sleep.”

“Can you sleep?”

“I’ll sleep when I’m tired.”

Xu Jinnan didn’t reply, glancing around the room.

The space between the bed and the window was small, but she could sleep there.

“I’ll sleep here,” she said, her voice gentle but firm, moving the chair aside. “Just don’t step on me when you get out of bed.”

“I’m fine. Go back to your room,” Shen Shu said.

“I’m not,” Xu Jinnan replied, meeting her gaze.

“I’m scared. That drunk guy was terrifying. What if he comes back and knocks on my door? We should look out for each other.”

Shen Shu: “…”

Xu Jinnan smiled faintly, turning to leave.

Shen Shu glanced at the floor, the paint chipped and worn in places.

“It’s dirty,” she said.

“It’s fine with the blanket,” Xu Jinnan replied.

“Sleep on the bed.”

Xu Jinnan: “…Huh?”

“Bring your blanket and sleep on the bed,” Shen Shu repeated.

Xu Jinnan hesitated, touching her lip with her tongue. “It’s fine. The floor is comfortable,” she said.

Shen Shu looked at her for a moment, then looked away. “Xu Jinnan, do you have to make me look like the bad guy?” Did Xu Jinnan really think she couldn’t tell the difference between genuine concern and a simple offer?

Didn’t she realize Xu Jinnan was only staying because she was scared?

Shen Shu hadn’t intended to say anything more, but now, a sudden surge of annoyance made her snap. “If you don’t want to share a bed with me, just go back to your room. I don’t need your company.”

Xu Jinnan: “…”

She wasn’t uncomfortable sharing a bed with Shen Shu.

She couldn’t exactly say she was afraid of her own impure thoughts, could she?

Why is she getting angry?

Shen Shu turned her back to Xu Jinnan and lay down, her voice returning to its usual calm indifference. “Can you turn off the light on your way out? Thank you.”

A moment later, the light went out.

Shen Shu opened her eyes, staring at the door, a strange tightness in her chest.

She had intended to wait for Xu Jinnan to leave before locking the door, but Xu Jinnan hadn’t moved.

Then, she heard the door open again.

It clicked shut, then locked.

Footsteps approached the bed.

In the faint light from the bathroom, Xu Jinnan walked over to the bed, holding her blanket. “Miss Shen?” she whispered. “Can you move over a little?”

Shen Shu didn’t reply, simply shifting to the right.

Xu Jinnan placed most of the blanket between them, assuming they would sleep separately.

But neither of them could sleep.

Xu Jinnan replayed the day’s events in her mind. She had sensed Shen Shu’s subtle mood swings, assuming she had been affected by Little Crescent Moon’s situation.

But she had also been thinking about something else.

She wasn’t sure if it was just her imagination, or wishful thinking.

Some feelings were difficult to define, their presence undeniable, yet intangible, like a veil, obscuring the truth.

It was a dangerous feeling, one that made her hesitate.

After a long silence, Xu Jinnan said, “Lin Wei seems to be a good caregiver for Little Crescent Moon. Can you add her on WeChat for me tomorrow?”

“Why don’t you add her yourself?” Shen Shu asked.

“She seems interested in me. I don’t want to give her the wrong idea,” Xu Jinnan replied.

Shen Shu didn’t respond.

“Little Crescent Moon is adorable, and her situation is heartbreaking. I’d like to visit her again when I have time… We could go together, if you’re free. It would be convenient to have Lin Wei’s WeChat to check on her occasionally. What do you think?” She could tell Shen Shu liked Little Crescent Moon.

“We’ll talk about it tomorrow,” Shen Shu said.

“Okay, good night then.”

Receiving no response, Xu Jinnan turned over, then heard Shen Shu’s calm voice. “My alarm is set for 7 a.m.”

Xu Jinnan opened her eyes, smiling silently. “What a coincidence. Mine too.”

Perhaps because of the shared quietude, or the quietness of the world outside, they soon drifted off to sleep.

But not for long. Shen Shu woke up, disturbed by a slight movement beside her. She was drowsy, the dim light of the bathroom illuminating the room. Xu Jinnan, facing her, lay curled up a short distance away, the blanket kicked aside.

She often kicked off her blankets; Shen Shu had seen it several times now.

She was about to retrieve the blanket for Xu Jinnan, then decided against it, simply pulling the edge of her own blanket over Xu Jinnan’s chest.

Then, she shifted slightly to the right, creating a small, almost insignificant distance between them.

Xu Jinnan slept soundly, dreaming of a vast field of fragrant vanilla, the sweet scent enveloping her, drawing her in.

She wanted to absorb it, to make it a part of her.

“Ah…” A soft moan echoed in her ears.

Xu Jinnan frowned, thinking, The walls are so thin. It’s impossible to sleep. Shen Shu must be having trouble sleeping too.

Then, she realized something was wrong and opened her eyes—

She was nestled under Shen Shu’s blanket, the Omega’s pale, slender neck within reach, her skin soft and smooth.

She instinctively inhaled, the sweet scent filling her lungs.

Then, a tingling sensation shot through her scent gland, and her body flushed with heat…

Chapter 44 p2

After dinner, they sat in the living room, the TV playing in the background.

Shen Shu, holding a bowl of grapes, asked if Xu Jinnan wanted her to cut some mangoes.

Xu Jinnan, busy with work on her phone, said she wasn’t hungry.

Just then, Chen Yue called.

He had found the place.

The Yuhua Orphanage was located seventy kilometers from North City, in a small town called Rongxiao, a two-hour drive.

Xu Jinnan looked at the photos he had sent; they matched her memories.

Shen Shu sat down beside her, holding the bowl of grapes. “Are you going?”

“Yes,” Xu Jinnan replied, nodding.

She couldn’t explain it, but she felt compelled to visit, as if something was drawing her there.

And there was also the little girl.

“I don’t think anyone besides Yin Xue and I knows about her. With Yin Xue in the Special Ward, that child…” Xu Jinnan frowned, not wanting to take responsibility, but the child was innocent.

“When are you going?” Shen Shu asked.

“In the next couple of days.”

“Alone?”

“Yes,” Xu Jinnan replied without thinking.

With Lu Yun’s involvement, it was best to keep Zhou Pei out of this. If Lu Yun interfered, it would only complicate matters.

Then, realizing how that sounded, she glanced at Shen Shu, who said, “I’m free these next few days. I’ll go with you.”

Xu Jinnan looked at her, shifting closer and leaning towards her. “You’ve been… unusually kind to me lately,” she commented.

Shen Shu: “?”

“Was I that terrible to you before?” she asked, meeting Xu Jinnan’s gaze.

Xu Jinnan blinked slowly, moving even closer and taking a grape from the bowl. “No, you’ve always been… fine,” she said with a smile, then straightened up.

Shen Shu: “…”

Xu Jinnan, her mood lifting, turned off her phone and switched the TV channel from commercials to a movie.

It was the ABO movie channel, also known as the late-night channel.

Censorship wasn’t as strict in this world, although particularly explicit scenes were still edited, but there were no restrictions on genres. Same-sex relationships, whether AA or OO, were common, as long as the movies were well-made and well-received.

The movie playing was a historical drama about an Alpha and an Omega. Shen Shu watched for a while, then went to the bedroom to read her script. Xu Jinnan continued working on her phone until the movie ended.

She liked having some background noise.

She contacted the Yuhua Orphanage, and the woman who answered the phone, clearly familiar with her, greeted her warmly as “Miss Xu” before she could even speak.

Two days later, Xu Jinnan decided to visit.

Before leaving, Shen Shu said she needed to go to the supermarket, and Xu Jinnan went with her, realizing, as Shen Shu filled the cart with candy and snacks, that they were for the child.

“Gifts for the little girl?” Xu Jinnan, having no experience with children, hadn’t thought of that.

“Yes.”

“Then let’s get more,” Xu Jinnan said.

They filled the car with several bags of snacks.

Her scent gland had been relatively calm these past few days, so Shen Shu offered to drive, but Xu Jinnan declined, telling her to focus on her script.

As they drove towards the small town, the scenery changed from the bustling cityscape to quiet countryside.

Xu Jinnan found the tranquility soothing. The sun was shining, and fields of bright yellow canola flowers lined the road, but the road itself was occasionally bumpy.

Shen Shu felt the same way, and they stopped for a break, Xu Jinnan taking pictures of the scenery.

Shen Shu opened a bottle of water. “You look like you’re on vacation,” she commented.

“What kind of vacation?” Xu Jinnan asked with a smile. “A honeymoon?”

They both paused.

Xu Jinnan looked at her, then quickly put away her phone, changing the subject. “Let’s go. We’ll be there in half an hour. Take a nap if you’re tired.”

“Should I drive for a while?”

“No, it’s fine.”

–

They arrived at the orphanage around 2 p.m. The security guard at the entrance, despite recognizing Xu Jinnan, still asked her to register. The orphanage director, hearing of her arrival, came out to greet them.

She was a plump, middle-aged woman with kind eyes and a warm smile, wearing dark-rimmed glasses.

Seeing Shen Shu, her expression flickered slightly. Xu Jinnan usually came with Miss Yin. She hid her surprise, smiling. “It’s been a while. You shouldn’t have brought so many things. It must have been heavy.”

“It’s nothing,” Xu Jinnan replied, gently placing a hand on Shen Shu’s back, drawing her closer. “This is my wife, Shen Shu.”

The director’s eyes narrowed slightly, understanding dawning. “Oh, Miss Shen, you’re so beautiful! Such a lovely name. You two are a perfect match.”

Without further ado, they followed the director inside.

Xu Jinnan and Shen Shu exchanged a look. This director was perceptive.

As they walked through the orphanage grounds, they saw a few children playing marbles in the shade, supervised by a caregiver in a green uniform. Laughter echoed through the air.

It was better than Xu Jinnan had imagined.

“It’s quite nice here,” she murmured to Shen Shu.

Receiving no response, she glanced over to see Shen Shu staring at a swing set in the distance.

After a moment, Shen Shu simply said, “Mm.”

Just as Xu Jinnan was about to speak, someone called out excitedly, “Miss Xu!”

It was the caregiver.

A young woman with delicate features and a rather impressive figure, her uniform straining slightly.

“Hello,” Xu Jinnan replied.

The caregiver hurried over, her smile faltering slightly as she noticed Shen Shu. “Miss Xu, Little Crescent Moon has been asking about you. You’re finally here!”

Shen Shu glanced at the caregiver, then looked away.

With the original Xu Jinnan’s attitude, would Little Crescent Moon actually miss her? Xu Jinnan wondered.

“Really? I missed her too,” she said with a smile.

Someone called the director, and she turned to them. “Lin Wei, take Miss Xu inside. I’ll go check the water pipes in the back,” she said. “They seem to be leaking again.”

“Certainly, Director,” Lin Wei replied.

–

The orphanage building was painted white, decorated with large cartoon characters – Tom and Jerry, SpongeBob SquarePants – and colorful, childish drawings.

Inside, two hallways, one pink and one blue, branched off from the entrance.

They walked down the pink hallway, and Xu Jinnan recognized the surroundings from her memory.

Lin Wei opened the door to a pink room, about twenty square meters. “Little Crescent Moon, look who’s here!”

The little girl turned around, her eyes lighting up. “Auntie Nannan!”

Xu Jinnan placed the bag of candy she had set aside on the table and bent down to pat Little Crescent Moon’s head, sensing the child instinctively flinch. Assuming she was scared, she withdrew her hand, then noticed the little girl’s eyes held only a hint of unfamiliarity, not fear.

“You can go now. We’ll chat for a bit,” she said to Lin Wei.

After Lin Wei left, Xu Jinnan crouched down in front of Little Crescent Moon, observing her closely.

She had two pigtails, her soft bangs framing her bright, dark eyes. She was adorable.

Her eyes and brows resembled Yin Xue’s slightly.

“It’s been a while,” Xu Jinnan said gently. “I’ve been busy lately.”

Little Crescent Moon nodded. “I know. The director told me you have a lot of work. Mama is busy too, that’s why she doesn’t visit me, right?”

Xu Jinnan’s heart ached, looking at the little girl’s innocent eyes.

Just then, she smelled a sweet fragrance, and Shen Shu approached, holding out her hand. “Strawberry-flavored. Want one? They’re delicious.”

Shen Shu’s face was close, so close that Xu Jinnan could feel her breath on her skin.

Little Crescent Moon looked at the candy in Shen Shu’s hand, then at Xu Jinnan.

“This is Auntie Shen Shu,” Xu Jinnan said with a smile. “Go ahead and take one. She bought them especially for you.”

Little Crescent Moon reached for the candy, forgetting her earlier question.

The candy seemed to break the ice, and she became more talkative. “Auntie Shen Shu, can you draw a bird?” she asked, as she liked drawing.

Shen Shu bent down, taking a colored pencil, her voice gentle. “Of course.”

Xu Jinnan raised an eyebrow, listening to her gentle tone. She seems to like children.

Compared to Shen Shu, Xu Jinnan wasn’t as comfortable with children, simply making small talk while observing the room.

It felt familiar, just like in her memory.

Suddenly, Little Crescent Moon said, “Auntie Nannan loves birds. Can I give this one to her?”

Xu Jinnan looked down, meeting the little girl’s bright eyes.

“Of course,” she replied.

“She said she likes birds?” Shen Shu asked, picking up on Little Crescent Moon’s words.

“She drew it herself! Her sketchbook is full of birds… Didn’t Auntie Nannan tell you? She always draws birds. Auntie Nannan, can I show Auntie Shen Shu your drawings?”

Xu Jinnan froze.

So, the original Xu Jinnan’s visits weren’t limited to that one memory fragment.

That fragment was from before the wedding. She had visited Little Crescent Moon after that, and more than once.

And judging by Little Crescent Moon’s attitude, she had treated her well.

Perhaps that was why Xu Jinnan felt a sense of familiarity with this place, not discomfort.

“Of course, go ahead,” she said.

Little Crescent Moon jumped off her chair and retrieved a sketchbook from a drawer.

“Look!” she exclaimed, opening the sketchbook. “I want to be as good as Auntie Nannan!”

Xu Jinnan walked over, and she and Shen Shu flipped through the pages together.

Each page was dated. The original Xu Jinnan had drawn with Little Crescent Moon during each visit, mostly birds and butterflies, occasionally a small human figure, all in black.

The dates started two months before her wedding to Shen Shu.

“We both want to be birds, so we can fly away!” the little girl’s cheerful voice echoed through the room. “Right, Auntie Nannan?”

Xu Jinnan’s heart ached.

“Yes,” she said softly. “One day, you’ll become a bird.”

“Birds have lots of friends! And they can fly far away to meet more friends, and then I can play with them! Auntie Shen Shu, do you want to be a bird? You can be a butterfly too! Butterflies are pretty, and you’re pretty too!”

Shen Shu remembered Xu Jinnan’s words, “Want to play with me?”

Perhaps Xu Jinnan had driven two hours, eighty kilometers, alone,

to visit this orphanage, to talk to Little Crescent Moon, seeing her as a younger version of herself.

Even though she knew this wasn’t the same Xu Jinnan, the image, superimposed on Xu Jinnan’s face, tugged at her heart.

–

After spending over an hour with Little Crescent Moon, who was fighting sleep despite her yawns, Shen Shu and Xu Jinnan exchanged a look.

Xu Jinnan patted the little girl’s head. “The director needs to talk to Auntie Nannan. Be a good girl and take a nap. I’ll come back and play with you later, okay?”

Little Crescent Moon grabbed her hand. “But I’m not sleepy! Not at all! Let’s draw some more! I learned how to draw sunflowers! I’ll show you…”

“She really does have something to do. If she’s late, she’ll be too embarrassed to come back next time,” Shen Shu said, picking her up and patting her back. “Go to sleep. I promise she’ll be here when you wake up.”

They didn’t have to coax her much. Little Crescent Moon, surprisingly understanding, nodded and climbed into bed. “I’ll be a good girl and take a nap. We can play when I wake up.”

Xu Jinnan smiled and agreed. Shen Shu told her to wait outside while she stayed with Little Crescent Moon for a few more minutes.

After Xu Jinnan left, Little Crescent Moon opened one eye, then quickly closed it again, seeing Shen Shu watching her.

Shen Shu stroked her hair. “I see you. Go to sleep.”

Little Crescent Moon opened both eyes. “Auntie Shen Shu, are you and Auntie Nannan together?”

Shen Shu was taken aback.

Little Crescent Moon blinked, her small hand reaching out from under the covers to pat Shen Shu’s hand. “It’s okay. You don’t have to comfort me. The director said even if two mommies have a baby, they don’t always stay together. Grown-ups have lots of problems… So, I’m not sad.”

Shen Shu, unsure what to say, gently squeezed her hand. “But they both love you very much.”

“Really?” Little Crescent Moon asked. “As long as I’m a good girl, they won’t leave me, right?”

Shen Shu’s eyes welled up. “No one will ever leave you, Little Crescent Moon,” she said firmly.

–

Xu Jinnan stepped out of the room.

The original Xu Jinnan’s world, despite its outward glamour and excitement, had been incredibly lonely, and she had found solace in her interactions with Little Crescent Moon.

But she seemed to have forgotten something.

If the original Xu Jinnan had left her sketchbook here, could there be other things, like the locked box?

As she was thinking, a voice called out, “Miss Xu.”

Lin Wei, Little Crescent Moon’s caregiver, approached her with a smile. The original Xu Jinnan had visited over a dozen times; perhaps Lin Wei knew something.

Shen Shu emerged from Little Crescent Moon’s room after putting her to sleep. As she stepped into the hallway, she saw Xu Jinnan talking to Lin Wei, her head bowed slightly.

Xu Jinnan was tall, and to accommodate Lin Wei’s height, she had bent down slightly, a smile playing on her lips.

Lin Wei was rather curvy, and from Shen Shu’s perspective, as they stood side by side, their bodies almost touching, they looked quite intimate.

Lin Wei laughed at something Xu Jinnan said.

Chapter 44 p1

Given Yin Xue’s personality, the second possibility, surrogacy, seemed more likely.

Xu Jinnan had occasionally seen news about surrogacy abroad. It was just a guess, and only the original Xu Jinnan and Yin Xue knew the truth.

Besides, she had a nagging feeling that the original Xu Jinnan’s attitude in that memory fragment wasn’t entirely accurate.

At least, when Xu Jinnan thought about the child, she didn’t feel any aversion or disgust.

Even a sense of familiarity.

She carefully reviewed the memory, finding a name written in the corner of Little Crescent Moon’s drawing – Yuhua Orphanage.

There were many orphanages with that name across the country. Xu Jinnan made a note of the surroundings in the drawing and asked Chen Yue to put the Wang Zheng investigation on hold and locate this orphanage.

While Chen Yue seemed like a lazy delinquent, he had his own channels for gathering information, his connections extending to the shadier corners of society.

This task wouldn’t be difficult for him.

—

Xu Jinnan and Shen Shu stayed at the hospital in Rongcheng for a day.

By the time they returned to North City, Yin Xue had been transferred back to the Special Ward. The police said her sentence would be extended. The drug incident remained unresolved, with no clear evidence.

On the way back, Xu Jinnan couldn’t shake the image of Yin Xue’s hateful gaze, the chilling despair in her eyes.

As she was thinking, she realized something wasn’t right.

She had assumed Yin Xue had something on the original Xu Jinnan, but despite the severity of the situation and the depth of her hatred, she hadn’t revealed anything.

Had she been wrong?

Or was the situation not dire enough for Yin Xue to use her leverage?

Her phone vibrated, interrupting her thoughts.

It was Li Lan, unexpectedly.

“I just heard from someone at the Special Ward… You’re quite the troublemaker, aren’t you? Always getting into something. Weren’t you trending online a few days ago? Are you alright? Are you hurt?” Xu Jinnan heard someone say “Good morning, Director” in the background. “I have half an hour free. I’ll come see you,” Li Lan continued.

Xu Jinnan raised an eyebrow, surprised by her concern.

“No need. I’m on my way back,” she said with a smile.

“Are you sure you’re okay?”

“I’m fine.”

“Your brother isn’t back yet. He’ll be worried when he finds out about all this.” She knew the original Xu Jinnan hadn’t disliked Xu Yincheng, but judging by Li Lan’s tone, they were actually quite close?

But Lu Yun had also seemed caring and affectionate at first. She couldn’t take it at face value.

“Don’t worry, I’m fine,” she reassured Li Lan.

Shen Shu, who was driving, glanced at her as they stopped at a red light.

Xu Jinnan thought Li Lan’s tone sounded almost… sisterly.

She had never met Xu Yincheng and didn’t know Li Lan well. And Li Lan had mentioned Xu Yincheng rejecting her, so she wasn’t sure about their relationship.

Having met so many shady characters recently, her expectations of people had become simple – as long as they weren’t enemies, it was fine.

The midday sun was scorching.

Xu Jinnan felt drowsy and glanced at Shen Shu, who had come with her to Rongcheng yesterday morning, missing her meeting with the director.

She hadn’t even changed her clothes, having spent the entire day and night taking care of Xu Jinnan.

Shen Shu’s hair was casually pulled back, her features softened by the sunlight, a hint of weariness in her eyes. Her lips looked dry.

But instead of looking unkempt, she resembled a rose, slightly parched, its delicate pink petals still beautiful.

Xu Jinnan’s own throat felt dry.

She opened a bottle of water and handed it to Shen Shu. “Have some water.”

“I haven’t driven in a long time,” Shen Shu said.

Xu Jinnan: “?”

“I don’t want to die in a car accident because I was thirsty,” she explained.

Xu Jinnan: “…”

Looking at her beautiful, impassive face, Xu Jinnan couldn’t tell if she was joking or serious.

“Okay,” she said. Safety first. There was another red light up ahead.

She took a sip of water, the coolness soothing her parched throat.

Perhaps due to her exhaustion, the simple act of drinking water brought a sigh of contentment to her lips.

Shen Shu’s throat tightened as she glanced at Xu Jinnan, then quickly looked away, but the image of the glistening water droplets on her lips lingered in her mind.

—

Shen Shu dropped Xu Jinnan off at Xingcheng International, then drove to her meeting with the director in Xu Jinnan’s car. She had missed their original appointment yesterday, but fortunately, he had been understanding and had rescheduled.

After the meeting, she went to Sacred Heart Pictures. By the time she returned home, it was past 6 p.m.

Before even opening the door, she smelled the familiar aroma of tomatoes, the comforting scent of home-cooked food.

The exhaustion and stress of the day melted away, replaced by a sense of warmth and peace.

This feeling of belonging, so rare in her life, was now associated with Xu Jinnan.

And it wasn’t unpleasant.

“Miss Shen, dinner’s ready,” Xu Jinnan called out from the kitchen, peeking out from behind the counter.

She was wearing the Winnie the Pooh apron over a black T-shirt, the apron tied tightly, the ears framing her face. The T-shirt ended at the same length as the apron, revealing her long legs.

“Okay,” Shen Shu replied, quickly looking away. “I thought you weren’t feeling well?”

Xu Jinnan returned to the cutting board, her voice light. “I slept all day. I feel much better.”

Three dishes and a soup were on the table – tomato and shrimp, steamed eggs, stir-fried bamboo shoots and pork, and seaweed soup.

“How did the meeting go?” Xu Jinnan asked.

“It’s basically confirmed. Filming starts next month,” Shen Shu replied.

Xu Jinnan, who preferred leaving the shells on the shrimp, noticed Shen Shu struggling to peel them.

“That’s great! What kind of drama is it?” she asked, placing a peeled shrimp in Shen Shu’s bowl.

Shen Shu looked down at the shrimp. “The modern workplace drama Tong Jia mentioned. Filmed here in North City. A supporting role.”

“Who’s the lead?” Xu Jinnan asked casually.

“They haven’t announced it yet.”

Regardless, it was a good start for Shen Shu.

Thanks to the recent trending topics, her popularity had soared, exceeding their expectations, her follower count reaching two million in just two days.

Several brands had already contacted her for endorsements, and Tong Jia had shortlisted two, scheduling a meeting with Shen Shu tomorrow to discuss them.

Xu Jinnan wasn’t familiar with the entertainment industry, but she understood the concept of commercial value.

Popularity was value.

And value determined Shen Shu’s future opportunities and freedom.

It was a positive feedback loop.

Shen Shu would only become more successful, until one day, she wouldn’t need Xu Jinnan’s protection anymore.

–

After two days of rest, Xu Jinnan returned to work, catching up on pending tasks, while Shen Shu stayed home, reading scripts and memorizing lines.

Zhou Pei entered her office, reporting on the old apartment. “Two suitcases, mostly handbags, about a dozen. Should I deliver them to Miss Shen’s apartment now?”

Xu Jinnan messaged Shen Shu, confirming she was home, then told Zhou Pei to go ahead.

–

Over an hour later, Xu Jinnan was in a meeting, discussing the development of the live streaming platform.

Shen Shu sent her a short video. She muted the meeting and clicked on it.

Then, she froze.

A row of luxury handbags lined the sofa in Shen Shu’s living room. The camera panned, and she saw the two suitcases Zhou Pei had delivered, one of them blue.

She didn’t even have to think; the sight of the suitcase immediately brought back the memory of that morning, handcuffed to Shen Shu, emptying the suitcase and its embarrassing contents…

Xu Jinnan facepalmed. She had intended to get rid of those things, perhaps late at night when no one was around.

But after moving in with Shen Shu, she had completely forgotten.

…Shen Shu must have recognized the suitcase.

What was the meaning of this video? Had she said anything?

She couldn’t listen to the audio during the meeting, so she tapped her fingers on the folder in front of her, her anxiety growing.

–

An hour later, the meeting finally ended, and the relieved attendees filed out of the room, as if they had just survived a minor earthquake.

“What was wrong with CEO Xu today? She agreed to the proposal, but she didn’t seem happy.”

“Ask Zhou Pei.”

“I don’t know either.”

Then, someone, more observant than the others, said, “I think she had a fight with her wife. She seemed fine at first, then her expression changed after checking her phone.”

“She’s usually quite approachable, but when she’s expressionless, she’s terrifying. When it was my turn to present, her stare made me sweat.”

“Same here. Good thing I have an off-site meeting this afternoon.”

“I’m meeting with the software developers.”

They all looked at Zhou Pei.

“Good luck, Zhou Pei,” they said, their voices full of sympathy.

Zhou Pei: “…”

She knew Xu Jinnan’s temper well and didn’t dare to say anything when she was angry. She glanced at Xu Jinnan’s closed office door, but lately, she couldn’t understand her moods or her thoughts.

She felt like Xu Jinnan didn’t trust her as much as before.

–

Back in her office, Xu Jinnan immediately turned on the sound.

Shen Shu’s calm voice, accompanied by the image of the suitcases on the screen, said, “Your… things arrived.”

Xu Jinnan: “…”

She hadn’t said anything explicitly, yet she had said everything.

Shen Shu definitely thought it was her “personal collection.” Xu Jinnan sighed. Why hadn’t she thought of this when Zhou Pei asked her about the suitcases?

It was past 3 p.m. when she finally finished working, and she decided to leave early.

Due to the lingering effects of Yin Xue’s drug, her hands were still slightly shaky, so she had Zhou Pei drive her.

As she got into the car, she noticed a bouquet of roses on the back seat, their vibrant red petals still closed, a beautiful sight.

“I replaced the plants in the lobby with new ones. The owner saw you and said she’s a fan of yours and Miss Shen. This is a gift from her,” Zhou Pei explained.

Xu Jinnan touched a petal, surprised.

–

Back at the apartment, the suitcases were gone. Hearing a noise from the bedroom, she opened the door and saw Shen Shu putting away laundry on the balcony.

Shen Shu turned around, noticing the roses in her hand, a question in her eyes.

Xu Jinnan, on a whim, said, “They’re for you.”

Shen Shu looked at her for a moment, and Xu Jinnan quickly corrected herself. “…Someone sent them.”

Shen Shu turned away, returning to her task.

“Do you have a vase?” Xu Jinnan asked.

A few moments later, Shen Shu returned with a vase. “This is all I have,” she said.

It was a clear, Scandinavian-style vase, about twenty centimeters tall, the opening slightly flared. Perfect.

Shen Shu placed the folded clothes on the bed and watched as Xu Jinnan, crouching on the balcony, trimmed the rose stems and arranged them in the vase.

She seemed to enjoy it.

Xu Jinnan stood up, placing the vase on Shen Shu’s bedside table. “Pretty, right?” she asked, her voice carrying a note of satisfaction.

Shen Shu glanced at the roses. “Someone sent them to you. Why are they on my bedside table?”

“They weren’t for me. They were for us,” Xu Jinnan replied, explaining the situation.

Shen Shu looked at the vase for a moment. “They’re fine.”

“Wow, getting a compliment from you is truly a rare occurrence,” Xu Jinnan said, bending down to pick up the discarded leaves and stems.

After a few seconds, she heard Shen Shu say softly, “They’re beautiful.”

Xu Jinnan looked up, surprised, but Shen Shu had already turned away. Had she been looking at her?

She smiled faintly, feeling strangely pleased, as if she had been coaxed into doing something.

Not having enough vases for all the roses, Xu Jinnan found a white ceramic soup pot and arranged the remaining flowers in it, placing it on the kitchen counter.

Then, she saw the two suitcases in the living room, one blue and one pink, and the row of designer bags on the sofa. She had forgotten about them. She carried everything into the guest room, planning to sort through them later, discarding the unwanted items.

–

Chapter 43

“Nan-jie, Yin Xue attempted suicide. Did you know?”

Xu Jinnan frowned. “Is she dead, or was it just an attempt?”

“Just an attempt, just an attempt,” Chen Bo replied quickly. “She’s in the hospital. It happened last night. She’s an orphan, no family, and since I sent her some things recently, the police called me, worried about her mental state… Do you want to visit her?”

His eagerness for her to visit was obvious. “It’s just that my presence won’t help. She listens to you. If you go, she’ll probably jump out of bed,” he added.

Xu Jinnan didn’t find it funny. Yin Xue’s suicide attempt was shocking, yet not entirely unexpected.

His comment about her being an orphan made her feel a pang of sympathy. People like Yin Xue and the original Xu Jinnan had likely all endured unimaginable hardships.

—

Upstairs, Xu Jinnan sat on the balcony, lost in thought.

Shen Shu emerged from the bathroom, glanced at her, then returned to the bedroom. A few minutes later, she came back out onto the balcony and sat down beside Xu Jinnan.

“She’s quite pitiful,” Shen Shu commented.

“Yes, she is,” Xu Jinnan replied. And hateful.

Yin Xue’s actions were unforgivable.

“Are you going to visit her?” Shen Shu asked.

“No,” Xu Jinnan said.

Chen Bo had sent a message, explaining that Yin Xue had used a worn-down toothbrush to cut her wrists, found in the bathroom in the middle of the night. She had been found in time and was out of danger. But if Xu Jinnan visited her, she had a feeling it would only lead to more drama.

While hateful, Yin Xue was still a human being.

And Xu Jinnan wasn’t heartless. She felt a flicker of sympathy.

—

Xu Jinnan had forgotten to turn off her phone’s ringer.

Just before dawn, a call from an unknown number woke her. She hung up, then answered the second time.

“Hello, is this Xu Jinnan?”

“Who’s this?”

“I’m a police officer from the Rongcheng Special Ward…”

Xu Jinnan rubbed her temples, sitting up in bed. “Which hospital?”

As she was getting ready to leave, Shen Shu emerged from the bedroom.

“I have to go to Rongcheng. Yin Xue woke up and is threatening to jump from the hospital roof. She wants to see me,” Xu Jinnan explained.

Shen Shu paused. “I’ll go with you.”

“Don’t you have a meeting with a director this afternoon?”

Shen Shu went back into the bedroom and returned a minute later, dressed in a simple sundress. “Let’s go.”

In the elevator, Xu Jinnan said Shen Shu didn’t have to come. It was a long drive, over two hours round trip, and she had a meeting later. It was a waste of time.

Shen Shu glanced at Xu Jinnan’s reflection in the mirrored elevator doors. She was looking at Shen Shu. “Zhou Pei isn’t here. I can help if anything happens,” she replied calmly.

“Oh.” Xu Jinnan smiled. “So you’re worried about me.” She turned to Shen Shu, their eyes meeting in the mirror.

Shen Shu’s eyelashes fluttered slightly, but she didn’t look away. “Mutual support, remember?”

“Whatever Miss Shen says,” Xu Jinnan replied, a hint of amusement in her voice.

The lighthearted moment was fleeting.

The closer they got to Rongcheng, the quieter the car became. The police officer called twice to check their location.

The situation was clearly urgent.

—

At the Rongcheng First People’s Hospital, they were taken to the stairwell leading to the roof, where a police officer explained the situation.

Yin Xue had been standing on the edge of the roof for over forty minutes, her legs dangling precariously over the edge. She was highly agitated, and after two failed attempts, the firefighters were afraid to approach her.

After confirming their relationship with Yin Xue, the officer said, “She only wants to see you. Anyone else approaching will only agitate her further. We need you to distract her so our firefighters can rescue her.”

Xu Jinnan nodded, leaving Shen Shu in the stairwell with instructions to prioritize her own safety. Then, she opened the door to the rooftop.

Three police officers, two of them female Betas, were already there, trying to calm Yin Xue down, but she was unresponsive, repeating only one phrase – “I want to see Xu Jinnan.”

Seeing Xu Jinnan, Yin Xue’s legs stopped swinging, but she continued tapping her heels against the wall, the rhythmic sound echoing in the silence.

She didn’t speak, simply smiling at Xu Jinnan as she approached, stopping about three meters away.

In less than two weeks, Yin Xue had become almost unrecognizable – gaunt and pale, her face and neck covered in scratches, her lips bloodless.

“Nannan, long time no see. Did you miss me?” she asked, her voice weak, her hand gripping the wall for support. “I missed you so much.”

Xu Jinnan watched as Yin Xue swayed precariously on the edge of the roof, her body moving with her restless legs, the threat of falling ever-present.

Yin Xue was sharp and kept glancing down, making it difficult for the firefighters below to find an opportunity to approach. The priority was to get her off the ledge.

Xu Jinnan softened her voice. “Really?”

Yin Xue, perhaps starved for such gentleness, nodded, her eyes gleaming with tears. “Really. So much. So much that I’m going crazy… You don’t know how awful it is in there, just like that time…”

“That time?” Xu Jinnan took a step closer, drawing Yin Xue’s attention.

“Don’t you remember? All the things I told you? You’ve forgotten everything now that you have that bitch. You don’t love me anymore… I know you don’t, Xu Jinnan! Why?! Why are you doing this to me?!”

Her initial calmness shattered, replaced by a sudden outburst of anger.

Her voice was shrill, her eyes filled with hatred. She pressed her hand against the wall, the blood almost soaking through the bandages on her wrist. She straightened up, her anger escalating. “Xu Jinnan, tell me! What do you see in her?! I did so much for you! I ruined myself! I staked my entire life on you… I’m not even afraid of death, just to see you!”

She seemed about to stand up.

“Yin Xue!” Xu Jinnan exclaimed.

Hearing her voice, Yin Xue stopped, her eyes red and teary. “Nannan, come back to me. I can forget everything. I can pretend Shen Shu doesn’t exist. I don’t even care that you’re married. Just come back to me. Don’t leave me, please.”

“Come down first. We can talk,” Xu Jinnan said, her heart pounding as Yin Xue swayed on the ledge. “Just come down, and we’ll talk.”

“Nannan, how long has it been since you visited Little Crescent Moon?” Yin Xue asked, her voice breaking, as if she hadn’t heard Xu Jinnan’s words.

Xu Jinnan froze. She had never heard that name before.

Yin Xue stared at her intently, her earlier agitation replaced by a strange calmness. “Come closer,” she said softly. “Come and get me… and I’ll come down.”

She reached out her hand.

Xu Jinnan calculated the distance, then took a step forward.

“Wait!” a police officer called out from behind her.

Before Xu Jinnan could respond, Yin Xue yelled, “Get away! All of you, get away!”

She was easily provoked.

—

Shen Shu, watching from the stairwell on a small monitor held by an officer, saw Xu Jinnan’s back and heard their conversation.

As Xu Jinnan approached Yin Xue, Shen Shu’s heart tightened, her brow furrowed.

Xu Jinnan reached out, her hand closing around Yin Xue’s. She could easily pull her back now.

Yin Xue, like an obedient child, waited patiently, a childlike smile appearing on her face as Xu Jinnan grasped her hand.

A wave of unease washed over Xu Jinnan, but she didn’t have time to think, pulling Yin Xue back forcefully.

Yin Xue didn’t resist, allowing herself to be pulled back, but just before they reached safety, she pressed her wrist against Xu Jinnan’s nose.

It was only for a second, but the police officers immediately pulled them apart.

Xu Jinnan felt as if she had inhaled something, a strange sensation coursing through her veins, a feeling she recognized.

But it quickly faded.

Just then, Shen Shu and the other officers rushed onto the rooftop.

“Xu Jinnan!” she exclaimed, running towards her.

Yin Xue, held by two officers, her legs weak, looked up at Xu Jinnan, then at Shen Shu’s worried expression, and burst into laughter.

“You don’t care about anything anymore, do you? I’m just a joke to you! Everything I did was a joke! You think you can just get rid of me?! Dream on! I won’t let you go, Xu Jinnan! I’ll haunt you for the rest of your life… Just you wait! Lock me up forever if you can… Otherwise, I’ll make you regret this!”

–

After giving a brief statement to the police, Xu Jinnan and Shen Shu left the hospital.

Xu Jinnan felt uneasy. Yin Xue’s erratic behavior and sudden mood swings seemed deliberate, and her own mind felt strangely clouded.

Once in the car, Shen Shu, who was driving, asked, “Are you alright?”

Xu Jinnan was about to nod when a sharp ringing filled her ears, a searing pain shooting through her nerves, as if someone was prying her skull open with tweezers. Her face paled, and she clutched her head, leaning against the dashboard.

“What’s wrong?” Shen Shu asked, unbuckling her seatbelt and leaning over to support her.

The ringing drowned out Shen Shu’s voice, her head throbbing, a splitting pain that made her body tremble. She bit her lip, then cried out, unable to contain the pain.

A mournful sound.

Images flashed through her mind – the sting of a whip, the sensation of drowning, the suffocating loneliness of an empty room, the fear and panic…

She instinctively curled up, recoiling from Shen Shu’s touch.

“Xu Jinnan, Xu Jinnan…”

Xu Jinnan pushed her away, then felt herself enveloped in a warm embrace, Shen Shu holding her tightly, refusing to let go, despite her struggles.

She smelled the familiar sweet fragrance, a comforting scent.

Shen Shu felt Xu Jinnan’s arms tighten around her, the grip painful. She gently patted Xu Jinnan’s back. “It’s okay,” she whispered. “Xu Jinnan, it’s okay. I’m here.”

Xu Jinnan quickly lost consciousness, her head resting on Shen Shu’s shoulder, her cold cheek and soft hair brushing against Shen Shu’s neck.

Shen Shu’s breath hitched, but she continued to hold Xu Jinnan, her touch gentle and reassuring.

–

After a while, hospital staff arrived.

Because of Xu Jinnan’s unique situation as a disguised Omega, Shen Shu had called Professor Qin, who had sent one of his students, Dr. Fang.

Xu Jinnan’s vitals were abnormal, indicating signs of poisoning.

“The toxin contains a stimulant, similar to a Class D drug, but much more potent. Fortunately, the dosage was small, and you called in time…”

“Would it have been life-threatening if we hadn’t?” Shen Shu asked.

“Not necessarily, but it could have caused neurological damage, severe headaches, and even psychosis,” Dr. Fang replied.

In simpler terms, she could have gone insane.

Shen Shu’s hands and feet turned cold as she looked at Xu Jinnan, a wave of fear washing over her.

–

Xu Jinnan saw a white wall decorated with cartoon hearts, a small pink bed, and a pink desk with a four-year-old girl, her hair in pigtails, sitting at it, drawing with crayons.

The door opened, and Yin Xue entered.

The little girl looked up. “Mama Yin Xue, look what I drew! Our family!”

Yin Xue, her nails painted red, took the drawing and handed it to someone behind her – the original Xu Jinnan.

The original Xu Jinnan glanced at the drawing, her expression indifferent. “Don’t draw pictures of three people! And don’t call me Mama. I’m not your mother.”

“What are you doing?” Yin Xue asked, going over to the little girl and gently stroking her cheek. “It’s a beautiful drawing, Little Crescent Moon. I love it. I’ll bring you candy next time, okay?”

After the original Xu Jinnan left, Yin Xue followed her, and they argued.

“You said you wanted a child! That’s why I had her! Why are you being so cruel? I had her for you!”

“You know how that child was conceived. Aren’t you disgusted?” the original Xu Jinnan said coldly.

Yin Xue stopped her. “I paid such a heavy price for you, and you call it disgusting? I’m an Alpha! I underwent a dangerous sex-change operation for you, from an Alpha to a fragile Omega, and you call it disgusting?! Xu Jinnan, do you even have a heart?!”

“When have I ever had a heart? I never said I liked Omegas. You were the one who jumped to conclusions. You did it willingly. It has nothing to do with me… But I do enjoy having you beneath me.”

The original Xu Jinnan’s gaze softened as she looked at Yin Xue’s tear-filled eyes. She cupped her face in her hands. “You only called me here because you’re afraid I’ll forget you now that I’m marrying Shen Shu. Don’t worry, even after I’m married, we can still be together. But if you keep acting up and doing these useless things… it’s not very endearing. Understand?”

–

Yin Xue stormed out, leaving the original Xu Jinnan standing at the doorway. After a moment, she opened the door to the pink bedroom and sat down on the bed.

Little Crescent Moon was crying. “I’m sorry! I won’t draw anymore! Please don’t fight! It’s my fault! Are you not coming to see me anymore? I’m sorry!”

The original Xu Jinnan looked at her for a moment, then took a tissue and roughly wiped her face, her movements awkward and clumsy.

She paused as she saw the red marks on the little girl’s face, then tossed the tissue aside, her voice sharp. “Stop crying!”

Little Crescent Moon, startled, retreated to her desk, her face red and blotchy, her breathing uneven.

The original Xu Jinnan’s expression softened slightly. “Yin Xue is your mother. I’m not. Don’t draw family portraits anymore. You can call me Auntie, but not Mama. Understand?”

Little Crescent Moon nodded. “Auntie Nannan, please don’t be angry. I… I understand.”

The original Xu Jinnan smiled faintly, satisfied, and handed her another tissue. Little Crescent Moon looked at her hesitantly.

“Your face is covered in snot. Disgusting. Wipe it,” she said impatiently.

Little Crescent Moon took the tissue.

The original Xu Jinnan picked up the drawing – two adults on either side, a child in the middle, the bright colors of the crayons cheerful and sunny.

Her smile vanished, and she ripped the drawing in half, her voice cold. “Mothers are the most terrifying creatures in the world. They have fangs. They’re man-eating demons who will devour your flesh and blood… Do you know what’s even more terrifying than a mother?”

Little Crescent Moon shook her head fearfully.

“Her partner. Like… the two people you drew.”

She held up the separate drawings of the two adults.

—

Shen Shu’s hand, resting on Xu Jinnan’s, trembled. She looked at Xu Jinnan, whose brow was furrowed in her sleep, her expression troubled.

She thought, Perhaps Xu Jinnan’s past was even worse than I imagined.

Someone so kind didn’t deserve to suffer so much.

She gently stroked Xu Jinnan’s forehead, her touch unconsciously tender.

Xu Jinnan’s skin was smooth and soft, like a baby’s, the wrinkles on her brow smoothing out under Shen Shu’s touch.

Just as she was about to pull her hand away, Xu Jinnan grabbed her wrist.

—

Xu Jinnan opened her eyes, bloodshot and blurry, and stared at Shen Shu for a moment, disoriented, then realized she was holding Shen Shu’s wrist. She quickly let go.

Shen Shu didn’t react, simply asking if she was feeling unwell.

“My head hurts. What happened?” Xu Jinnan asked.

Shen Shu explained what had happened, then said, “The police think it was something on Yin Xue’s bandages.”

“Think?” Xu Jinnan tried to sit up, but the IV in her arm restricted her movements. “I did feel something,” she said, remembering the strange sensation, so brief and subtle that she hadn’t paid attention to it at the time.

“They couldn’t find the bandages, and there were no traces of drugs on her hands. No evidence, so they can only speculate,” Shen Shu explained concisely.

Xu Jinnan immediately grasped the key point. “Someone helped her.”

“Yes, and the surveillance cameras didn’t capture anything. It was well planned,” Shen Shu confirmed.

Yin Xue had been determined to break Xu Jinnan.

Love turned to hate.

It was a terrifying thing, and Yin Xue had reached her breaking point.

Xu Jinnan didn’t speak. She had sensed someone pulling the strings behind Yin Xue’s actions, from her first hospital visit, to the Emperor Hotel incident, to the banquet, and now this.

This person was clever, covering their tracks meticulously.

Seeing Xu Jinnan lost in thought, Shen Shu went to find Professor Qin.

He entered the room alone, holding a chart, glancing at the doorway before lowering his voice. “Miss Xu, this was very dangerous. Your Alpha levels are spiking. Your rut is coming soon. You know that, right? Fortunately, it didn’t trigger a full-blown episode, or your secret would be out.”

Xu Jinnan touched her scent gland. “It has been feeling strange lately.”

To be precise, the tingling sensation wasn’t as intense as before, and sometimes, it was even pleasant.

A painful pleasure?

“Your pheromone compatibility is very high. You can both attract and soothe each other. It’s normal. The pain you’re feeling, besides the stimulation of your scent gland, might also be related to your secondary differentiation,” Professor Qin explained, conducting a few more tests.

The drug Yin Xue had used hadn’t caused any permanent damage, but there would be some lingering side effects, such as fatigue, drowsiness, tremors, and a weakened immune system.

“Be careful about the weakened immune system. Your rut is approaching. Make sure you have your suppressants with you,” he warned.

Just then, Shen Shu entered with a bowl of porridge and some side dishes.

She placed them on the table and, after confirming Xu Jinnan was stable, said, “Thank you for coming all this way.”

“It’s my duty,” Professor Qin replied, waving his hand dismissively.

Shen Shu glanced at the chart in his hand. “Can I see that?”

He handed it to her, exchanging a brief look with Xu Jinnan, who sighed inwardly. She had been hesitant ever since seeing the therapy appointment slip in Shen Shu’s drawer.

She had already seen the chart. Professor Qin, remembering her instructions, had written “Omega” for her gender, so Shen Shu wouldn’t suspect anything.

Shen Shu quickly scanned the chart, her gaze lingering on the word “Omega,” then handed it back.

“Um… Miss Shen, I’m a little embarrassed to ask, but could you sign this for me?” Professor Qin said. “My niece is a big fan of yours.”

Shen Shu smiled. “Of course. Give my regards to your niece.” After signing the autograph, she added, “This is my first time signing an autograph.”

—

After Professor Qin left, Xu Jinnan looked at Shen Shu, who, despite her usual calm demeanor, seemed genuinely happy.

Xu Jinnan smiled, then her smile faded as she remembered something.

She hadn’t expected Yin Xue to be a transgender Omega.

And… that child, Little Crescent Moon.

Her head started to throb, and she looked at Shen Shu, a hint of apprehension in her voice.

“There’s something I need to tell you,” she said.

Shen Shu opened the container of porridge. “What is it?”

“I might have a child,” Xu Jinnan blurted out.

Shen Shu: “…”

Xu Jinnan rubbed her forehead. “I mean, Yin Xue and I have a… No, Yin Xue has a child,” she corrected herself, finally finding the right words.

It hadn’t been a dream, just like the memories from the Xu residence. It was a fragment of the original Xu Jinnan’s past.

A vivid, visceral memory.

She told Shen Shu everything, then, seeing her reaction, quickly added, “It’s not my child.” The child was four or five years old. Back then, the original Xu Jinnan had been a dysfunctional Omega, incapable of conceiving.

“I know,” Shen Shu replied. “Dysfunctional Omegas can’t have children.”

Xu Jinnan: “…” While it was true, it sounded like an accusation.

Shen Shu, realizing her words might have been misconstrued, softened her tone and opened the containers of side dishes. “And Yin Xue couldn’t have given birth either,” she added.

Xu Jinnan paused, realizing the same thing.

A transgender Omega couldn’t have biological children.

If the child was truly Yin Xue’s, there were only two possibilities – she had conceived before her transition, or she had used a surrogate…

 

Chapter 42

Push-ups are one thing, but what’s with the “close contact” part?

Xu Jinnan glanced at Shen Shu, whose expression mirrored her own confusion.

Tong Jia, anticipating their reluctance, added, “Even if you have to take a call and leave, you still have to do at least one. We all did the dare. It’d be heartbreaking if you two just left.”

Xu Jinnan: “…”

“We’re all friends here. If Shu Shu is shy about the whispering part, she can skip it, or she can have a small drink,” Tong Jia said, looking at Shen Shu. “But CEO Xu, you have to do the dare. If Shu Shu chooses to drink, you have to pick someone to do the push-ups with, without the whispering, of course.”

Xu Jinnan: “…” This woman is unbelievable.

She gave Tong Jia a look.

Tong Jia, sensing the unspoken threat – Oh, you think this is funny? Just you wait. – flinched.

She hadn’t meant any harm. She was just used to teasing Xu Jinnan.

But now that she thought about it, having Xu Jinnan do push-ups with someone else wasn’t appropriate. One was her investor, the other her artist; both were valuable.

What if it caused problems between them?

“Alright, alright, I wouldn’t want Shu Shu to get jealous…” Tong Jia said, changing the rules. “You two can either do the push-ups together, or Shu Shu can have a drink, and since this is your second dare refusal, CEO Xu, you have to drink five.”

So, two push-ups equaled one drink.

A glass of Wusu beer wasn’t much. Shen Shu could handle a little alcohol, and for Xu Jinnan, it was practically nothing.

After this, they could switch to dice or another game.

Everyone would save face. That was Tong Jia’s plan.

After her previous experience, Xu Jinnan was wary of this body’s alcohol tolerance, but compared to doing push-ups in a suggestive position with Shen Shu, making her uncomfortable, she would choose to drink.

As this thought crossed her mind, another one followed – her initial reaction hadn’t been to refuse the push-ups; she had simply been concerned about Shen Shu’s comfort.

The thought was fleeting.

Shen Shu finished the small glass of wine Tong Jia had poured her and watched as Xu Jinnan picked up a full glass of Wusu, pausing slightly.

She had seen Xu Jinnan clutch her stomach after the first drink earlier, and she hadn’t been feeling well this morning…

She was about to offer to drink in Xu Jinnan’s place, but Qiao Rui gently reminded her that wasn’t allowed.

“It’s fine,” Xu Jinnan murmured.

While Qiao Rui’s words had been polite, there had been a hint of disapproval in her tone.

She didn’t care about Qiao Rui’s opinion, but the two assistants were there, and she didn’t want to create a bad impression, especially since they would be working with Shen Shu in the future.

She should have refused the dare from the start. But Tong Jia had already changed the rules, and five glasses of beer wasn’t that much. Refusing again would be disrespectful.

She might as well just drink it.

Xu Jinnan quickly finished two glasses, the beer going down smoothly. Wusu wasn’t harsh, but she still paused slightly after each glass.

No one noticed, except Shen Shu, who was watching her closely. In the colorful lights of the karaoke room, she saw the slight furrow in Xu Jinnan’s brow as she drank.

Xu Jinnan didn’t have to do this. She had even walked out of the Han family banquet; these people were nothing to her. Shen Shu knew she was drinking for her sake.

As Xu Jinnan reached for the fourth glass, Shen Shu stopped her.

“That’s enough. Let’s do the push-ups,” she said calmly. “One drink equals two push-ups. We’ll do four.” Her voice was as cool and composed as ever, the words devoid of any innuendo.

Xu Jinnan paused, surprised.

Shen Shu turned to Tong Jia. “But can we skip the whispering?” she asked softly. Her tone was serious, but Xu Jinnan’s throat tightened. Her thoughts had become dangerously suggestive since arriving in this world.

Why did she find that question so alluring?

Tong Jia, used to Shen Shu’s aloof demeanor, was amused by the contrast between her expression and her words.

She suddenly thought Shen Shu would be perfect for the role of a naive, innocent, yet subtly seductive character.

“Sure,” she said, laughing.

She thought Xu Jinnan was being overly protective of her wife. Shen Shu seemed more open to it.

Xu Jinnan leaned in close to Shen Shu’s ear. “Do you even know what a push-up is?” she whispered.

“…Yes,” Shen Shu replied. “Top or bottom?”

Xu Jinnan: “…” How can she ask that so calmly?

It made Xu Jinnan’s own thoughts seem even more impure.

Everyone in the room was watching them expectantly.

Shen Shu paused. “You can be on the bottom.”

Xu Jinnan: “?”

The two questions had been so close together, it was as if Shen Shu hadn’t given her a chance to choose.

And indeed, she hadn’t.

She had considered Xu Jinnan’s upset stomach and her apparent lack of sleep, judging by her pale lips and tired appearance this morning.

She probably didn’t have much energy.

Tong Jia chuckled. “CEO Xu, you two are giving yourselves away.”

The others also exchanged knowing smiles.

Before Xu Jinnan could respond, Shen Shu stood up.

Xu Jinnan followed her, still wanting to avoid the push-ups. She was fine with drinking.

“Come on, let’s get this over with. I’m tired,” Shen Shu said, her voice unusually soft, almost intimate.

Xu Jinnan couldn’t speak, a smile playing on her lips.

She looked at Shen Shu’s serious expression, then leaned in close, their faces only inches apart. “Then I want to be on top,” she whispered.

Shen Shu: “…”

The others in the room were practically howling with laughter. This was pure entertainment. They had been so reluctant to participate just moments ago, and now they were practically making out in public.

Shen Shu lay down on the wide sofa, the cushions sinking slightly under her weight. As Xu Jinnan leaned over her, the sofa dipped further.

Their eyes met, their breathing shallow, then they both looked away.

Xu Jinnan carefully positioned her arms to avoid touching Shen Shu’s body, despite their close proximity.

The four push-ups were over in seconds.

“CEO Xu, you’re quite strong,” Tong Jia commented.

Xu Jinnan stood up, slipping on her heels. “It’s getting late. Shu Shu and I are leaving. You guys have fun,” she said, and they left the room.

As soon as they were outside, Shen Shu’s phone rang. It was Cai Ying, who explained she hadn’t seen their messages earlier. Shen Shu told her they would talk later.

They walked silently through the long, brightly lit hallway. As they turned a corner, a drunk man stumbled towards them, and Xu Jinnan instinctively pulled Shen Shu closer, half-embracing her.

After the man passed, she released Shen Shu and they continued walking.

Xu Jinnan glanced at Shen Shu, whose face was slightly flushed, perhaps from the alcohol, or perhaps something else. Is she blushing? she wondered.

The thought sent a pleasant flutter through her chest.

As if sensing her gaze, Shen Shu said, “Let’s go,” and walked ahead.

“Okay,” Xu Jinnan replied, following her.

Tong Jia, watching them from a distance, said to Qiao Rui, “Newlyweds are different, aren’t they?”

“Different how?” Qiao Rui asked with a smile.

Tong Jia playfully pinched her waist. “We’ve been together too long. Starting to feel the seven-year itch, aren’t we?” She looked at Qiao Rui, searching her eyes.

Qiao Rui gently touched Tong Jia’s nose. “I don’t feel it at all. I can’t get enough of you. Are you the one getting tired of me?”

Tong Jia laughed, pleased with the answer, but the smile didn’t reach her eyes. Why doesn’t she understand? Haven’t I been dropping enough hints?

How much longer did she have to wait for a proposal?

---

Since they had both been drinking, they called a driver.

Xu Jinnan had been right; the original Xu Jinnan’s body had changed, especially her alcohol tolerance. After those few drinks, her face and neck felt warm.

Her head was spinning, and she felt drowsy.

They chatted briefly in the car, then Xu Jinnan leaned against the window and fell silent. Shen Shu glanced over and saw her long eyelashes fluttering against her cheek.

Her nose was delicate and straight, her lips slightly thin. They said thin lips meant a cold heart.

But Xu Jinnan, if she loved someone, would be anything but coldhearted.

The car suddenly braked, and Shen Shu instinctively reached out to protect Xu Jinnan’s head from hitting the window.

Shen Shu’s palm was warm; Xu Jinnan’s face was burning hot.

Xu Jinnan didn’t wake up, simply nuzzling against Shen Shu’s hand, as if finding the support comfortable.

Shen Shu: “…”

When Xu Jinnan woke up, she found a pillow beneath her head. She felt even dizzier than before.

The alcohol was hitting her now.

The elevator ascended to the eighth floor.

Xu Jinnan, her eyes half-closed, saw her flushed face in the mirrored wall of the elevator. She paused, then glanced at Shen Shu.

The air felt warm and heavy, and her mouth was dry.

Sensing her gaze, Shen Shu looked over, their eyes meeting in the mirror. Xu Jinnan didn’t look away.

“Is your stomach upset?” Shen Shu asked, her voice unusually gentle.

Xu Jinnan paused, as if processing the question, then shook her head, her gaze returning to Shen Shu’s face. “No.”

Shen Shu nodded, looking away.

---

Inside the apartment, Xu Jinnan watched as Shen Shu changed her shoes at the entrance. In the cool light of the hallway, Shen Shu’s toes looked almost translucent.

When Shen Shu stood up and saw Xu Jinnan still standing there, her heels still on, she asked, “What are you waiting for?”

“Shen Shu,” Xu Jinnan said, stepping closer and leaning down, “were you blushing just now?”

Her height, amplified by her heels, and her pheromones, mingled with the scent of alcohol, made Shen Shu instinctively want to step back.

She resisted the urge, her lips parting slightly, when Xu Jinnan suddenly straightened up, rubbing her head. “I’m so tired. I’m going to bed,” she mumbled, kicking off her heels and walking barefoot to the guest room.

Shen Shu watched her leave, a thought crossing her mind – Is she drunk again?

After the guest room door closed, Shen Shu looked down at Xu Jinnan’s discarded heels, then neatly placed them on the shoe rack.

She paused, a smile playing on her lips. Xu Jinnan was rather endearing sometimes.

---

Xu Jinnan slept soundly, waking up to realize she hadn’t changed her clothes or showered.

Fortunately, she wasn’t completely blackout drunk and still remembered what had happened. After replaying the night’s events in her mind, she finally left the guest room.

Shen Shu was still asleep. Xu Jinnan went to the kitchen, scrolling through her phone.

The refrigerator still contained only two carrots. She took out some pork ribs from the freezer, planning to make porridge.

She scrolled through the messages in the group chat. Tong Jia and her two assistants were talking.

Xinxin: [Great news! Shu-jie’s follower count is over 800,000!!!]

Tong Jia: [@Shen Shu @Xu Jinnan You have a fan who wrote a fanfic about you two. Want to read it?]

Xinxin: [Yes! I want to read it!]

Tong Jia: [Link]

Tong Jia: [Crazy Rich Omega vs. Ice Queen Alpha, forced confinement edition…]

Xiaodong: [Isn’t CEO Xu an Alpha?]

Tong Jia: [It’s fanfiction.]

Xu Jinnan: “…”

What makes them think I’m an Omega?

She clicked on the link and saw the author’s name – Little Bunny.

She raised an eyebrow. She and Little Bunny didn’t seem to get along.

The title was The Domineering CEO’s Captivity Diary. It was a short story, posted on a public, 18+ website, only the first chapter, about two thousand words.

But it had a lot of views.

Xu Jinnan skimmed it.

It was about a domineering CEO who becomes obsessed with the female protagonist, who then turns the tables and imprisons her. A classic enemies-to-lovers, with a touch of crazy.

Xu Jinnan’s face remained expressionless as she returned to WeChat and sent a smiling emoji in the group chat.

Tong Jia immediately sent her a private message.

[CEO Xu, did you pay to have that post about you deleted?]

Xu Jinnan: [?]

Tong Jia: [There was a discussion on Zhihu about someone posting your dark secrets, and now the entire account is gone. I’ll show you.]

Xu Jinnan turned on the faucet and started washing the carrots. A few moments later, Tong Jia messaged her, saying she couldn’t find the post anymore.

Xu Jinnan replied, “I don’t know.”

She had seen this happen a few times before. She had even investigated it. Even Han Hui and Chen Bo had their share of scandals and rumors online. But there was nothing about her, the notorious “North City Bully.”

She suspected it was the Xu Corporation’s doing, considering Xu Tao’s obsession with reputation.

As she was thinking, she saw Shen Shu emerge from the bedroom.

“Go wash up. I’ll make some stir-fried carrots to go with the porridge,” she said, picking up a knife.

“Your headache’s gone?” Shen Shu asked.

“I slept it off,” Xu Jinnan replied.

---

It was more of a brunch than breakfast. They ate quietly, and then Xu Jinnan’s phone rang.

After the call, she glanced at Shen Shu, who was washing the dishes. “Are you going out today?”

“Tong Jia set up a meeting with a director this afternoon,” Shen Shu replied.

Already scheduling meetings for her next project? Tong Jia was right; things were about to get busy for Shen Shu.

“Cai Ying said she’s coming over tonight,” Shen Shu added.

Xu Jinnan turned off her phone. “Then I’ll come back here,” she said without thinking, then realized how that sounded.

She had been considering the living arrangements these past few days.

After revealing their marriage, staying at the hotel wasn’t appropriate anymore. Shen Shu had a spare room, and if she didn’t mind, Xu Jinnan would move in.

“I don’t mind,” Shen Shu said, placing the dishes on the drying rack.

The living room fell silent. After a moment, Shen Shu asked, “Do you mind cooking?”

Xu Jinnan smiled. “Do you mind eating more?”

Shen Shu paused, a faint smile playing on her lips.

---

Xu Jinnan went to the office, telling Zhou Pei on the way to deal with the old apartment. It held too many unpleasant memories for both her and Shen Shu.

At the office, she received a message from Chen Yue, the young private investigator.

She drove to the same run-down apartment complex, the midday sun beating down on the empty streets. Chen Yue, still in his hip-hop attire, his silver chain glinting in the sunlight, hurried over to the car.

“Nan-jie,” he said, getting in and handing her a photo.

It wasn’t very clear, but the man’s features were visible.

“This should be Wang Zheng.”

“Should?”

“I visited the locations you mentioned and pulled some strings to get the surveillance footage. This is the only person who appeared at all those places. You can check the footage from Chengyang Cafe, the only place I couldn’t access. Compare it to the time of the phone call. If this man was there at that time, then it’s almost certain he’s Wang Zheng.”

Xu Jinnan looked at the photo. A middle-aged man in a blue work cap, his head tilted back slightly, a white scar on his chin.

“I’ll look into it,” she said, taking the photo and handing Chen Yue a wad of cash.

“Thank you, Nan-jie. Let me know if you need anything else. Once you confirm his identity, I’ll find him for you, no matter where he is,” he said, puffing out his chest.

Just then, his phone rang, and as he left, Xu Jinnan overheard him mention hospital bills.

She sat in the car for a while, the quiet atmosphere of the old residential area strangely calming, reminding her of cooking in Shen Shu’s kitchen.

It was a peaceful, comforting feeling.

She saw an elderly woman carrying groceries, walking into a narrow alleyway.

She sent Shen Shu a message.

[Need anything from the grocery store?]

A few seconds later:

Shen Shu: [I went shopping this morning.]

[Okay.]

Then, another message from Shen Shu:

[Any fruits you like?]

Xu Jinnan: [Mangoes.]

Just then, Cai Ying tagged her and Shen Shu in the group chat.

Cai Ying: [@Shen Shu My dear superstar, I might not be able to make it tonight.]

Cai Ying: [@Xu Jinnan Hey, I might not be able to make it tonight.]

Xu Jinnan: “…”

Shen Shu asked what was wrong, and Cai Ying immediately replied: [Can’t talk now, gotta study!] followed by a location pin for the City Library.

After learning about the tutor, Han Ling, Shen Shu had had someone investigate. She was indeed a professor at the university, albeit an adjunct, and the student reviews were positive – beautiful, knowledgeable, kind, and patient.

It matched Cai Ying’s description.

But she hadn’t seen a photo.

Shen Shu didn’t want to interfere too much, simply reminding Cai Ying to be careful during their occasional chats. But the tutor seemed competent; Cai Ying’s recent practice exams showed significant improvement.

And according to Shen Shu, they always met at the City Library.

Xu Jinnan hadn’t been to a library in years. Her office building wasn’t far from the City Library. Perhaps she should visit sometime.

---

At the City Library, Cai Ying had reserved a table in advance. The library was crowded due to the hot weather, and she had only managed to find a table near the edge.

She didn’t see Han Ling, so she sent her a WeChat message, but received no reply.

She rested her head on the table, waiting, when she felt a hand ruffle her hair.

“Ran into someone I knew. Sorry I’m late,” a voice said.

Cai Ying didn’t mind, opening her textbook. “I reread the chapter you mentioned, but I don’t understand this phrase.”

Han Wenling looked at her for a moment. “What’s wrong?” Cai Ying asked, blinking.

The mixed-race Omega’s long eyelashes fluttered like fans, her light-colored eyes sparkling, her skin pale and flawless. She looked as innocent as a blank sheet of paper.

If this continued, Han Wenling would actually start treating her like a student.

She leaned closer, a playful smile on her lips. “Let me show you.”

A clean, refreshing scent filled Cai Ying’s senses.

Han Wenling’s pheromones were cedar-scented, a pleasant fragrance she never bothered to conceal. The scent intensified slightly when she was close.

Like now. It was subtle, undetectable to others, but Cai Ying could smell it.

Her ears felt warm.

After the lesson, as Cai Ying was packing up, Han Wenling said softly, “There’s a difficult concept in the next chapter. You can ask me about it tonight.”

“I might have to ask you tomorrow,” Cai Ying replied.

“Oh?”

“I have plans tonight. I won’t be able to study.”

“With whom?”

The question was a bit intrusive, but Han Wenling’s tone was light and curious.

“A friend from abroad. She just got back yesterday. We’re having dinner tonight,” Cai Ying replied, their voices low.

Han Wenling nodded, not asking any further questions.

Then, she seemed to remember something. “Did you finish that novel? Weren’t you going to tell me about it?”

“No…” Cai Ying hesitated. “One of the characters has a similar name to my best friend. It freaked me out a little. Maybe another time.”

“Want me to read it with you?”

Cai Ying looked up, biting her lip. She would love to read with a beautiful woman, but thinking about it made her slightly nervous.

She didn’t answer. Xu Jinnan had told her Omegas should be more reserved around Alphas, or they would be seen as easy targets.

---

That afternoon, Zhou Pei had already listed the old apartment for sale, as instructed by Xu Jinnan.

She asked Xu Jinnan what she wanted to do with the belongings inside, mentioning some designer bags and clothes. Xu Jinnan, after a moment of thought, told her to pack everything and deliver it to Shen Shu’s apartment.

“Since you’re moving in with Miss Shen, should I pack your things from the hotel as well?” Zhou Pei asked.

“Yes, please,” Xu Jinnan replied.

She didn’t have much, and the guest room closet was empty.

---

Later that afternoon, Zhou Pei drove Xu Jinnan to Xingcheng International. As they pulled up, they saw Shen Shu entering the building with a bag of groceries.

Shen Shu also saw Xu Jinnan’s car and stopped.

Xu Jinnan got out of the car and took the bag from Shen Shu, smiling as she saw the mangoes and grapes inside. Just as they were about to go upstairs, Xu Jinnan’s phone rang.

It was Chen Bo, his voice urgent.

“Nan-jie, Yin Xue attempted suicide. Did you know?”