Category: Inferior A After Having a Baby with the Top Boss

Chapter 27: “—Until I Deem It Satisfactory.”

This sentence froze Ming Fei in place…

“—Until I deem it satisfactory.”

This sentence froze Ming Fei in place, as if two weights had been placed on her shoulders.

She couldn’t help but wonder, what level did Zhu Yiqiao consider satisfactory? As proficient and effortless as herself? But by Ming Fei’s standards, that was already close to a perfect score.

Cooperating with Zhu Yiqiao’s reasonable requests was an important part of the marriage agreement.

Although she wasn’t a particularly outstanding subordinate, she knew to follow instructions. Therefore, after some thought, she knelt in front of the armchair and looked up at the aloof woman.

“For practice, can we start with the Taiya hand-kissing etiquette?”

At the moment they actually began, Zhu Yiqiao’s requirements became vague.

She said, “As you wish.”

Ming Fei nodded: “Okay.”

Taiya was the most open country in the international community. People often greeted each other with hand-kissing, cheek-kissing, hugs, and other forms of physical affection.

Ming Fei had been to Taiya once before, on a business trip with Li Xing. After completing their work at the Ivy League school, she strolled alone along the famous Street 109, past the ancient Malfaya Church and the statue of Sifila, and arrived at Bulanhai, known as the “Garden of the New Century.”

Although the walk was only one kilometer, she received thirteen confessions, and several of them were quite bold and passionate. One woman even proposed to her with a rose from a street vendor.

Since then, Taiya’s passionate openness had left a deep impression on Ming Fei.

Heavy snow was falling outside, but the temperature inside was gradually rising. Looking at the aloof Zhu Yiqiao, Ming Fei thought to herself, it was a good thing the Chief Judge hadn’t taken off her white gloves, thus avoiding more direct intimate contact.

Not wanting to waste time, she tentatively took Zhu Yiqiao’s right hand. After confirming that Zhu Yiqiao hadn’t reached for her gun with her other hand, she proceeded to the next step, feeling encouraged.

Also an alpha, she was five centimeters taller than Zhu Yiqiao, and her hands were slightly larger.

She held Zhu Yiqiao’s hand as carefully as if it were a precious gem, her eyelashes fluttering as she lowered her head and kissed the back of the gloved hand.

Her kiss was light, like a butterfly flapping its wings.

A fleeting touch, always maintaining politeness, never crossing the line.

After the kiss, she didn’t immediately release Zhu Yiqiao’s hand, but continued to hold it, looking up at her and asking,

“…Jiejie, is this okay?”

Zhu Yiqiao said, “Next step.”

After saying that, she released Ming Fei’s hand, still sitting in the armchair, watching her expressionlessly.

For some reason, the tension in Ming Fei’s heart lessened a little.

Her nervousness stemmed from pretending to be Zhu Yiqiao’s intimate partner. Although she knew it was her duty, gratitude hadn’t completely dispelled her reverence and awe for Zhu Yiqiao, so she always felt like prey caught by the scruff of its neck.

Perhaps at some point when she let her guard down, her neck would be bitten, and she would become a meal.

She pursed her lips, suppressed these complicated thoughts, and was about to proceed with the next step, a cheek kiss, when her silent phone suddenly rang. She moved to the side to avoid interrupting, planning to continue practicing after Zhu Yiqiao finished the video call.

Lan Lubai’s voice came from the other end of the video.

“Why didn’t you tell me when you arrived?” she asked with a smile in her voice. “What is Chief Judge Zhu busy with?”

Zhu Yiqiao glanced at the person beside her and, seemingly without any guard, directly connected Lan Lubai’s video call to the living room robot’s display screen, so that Lan Lubai’s voice immediately filled the entire area by the French windows.

She took the initiative to greet Ming Fei, who had minimized her presence, her bright smile as radiant as the stars.

“Good evening, Teacher Xiao Fei, thank you for accompanying our boss on this trip.”

Ming Fei smiled: “It’s no trouble at all.”

“Oh, I was truly amazed by your shadow play performance at the school celebration last time! I wonder which master Teacher Xiao Fei learned from?”

Which master?

Ming Fei’s memory instantly went back to her childhood.

Behind the orphanage was a mountain, and not far to the right was a stage. Back then, she was still very young. Whenever the orphanage organized trips to watch plays at the stage, compared to other children who were playing around, she always sat in the first row, watching with rapt attention.

Over time, the performers on stage remembered her name.

Once, during a performance of shadow puppetry, which few people watched anymore, there were only a handful of people in the audience. Because it was raining, in the end, only Ming Fei remained.

When the show ended, a female performer called her over and asked if she was interested in learning.

That was the first time young Ming Fei had been asked if she wanted to do something. Before that, she could only passively accept answers, never being asked about her own wishes.

She shyly replied that she wanted to learn, and from then on, the female performer would teach her every week. Later, the stage moved away, and she would practice late at night under the light, secretly envying the various small animals projected by the shadows, because they could run freely in the wilderness.

The two chatted about this topic, but were soon interrupted by Zhu Yiqiao.

She rested her chin on one hand, the pheromone bracelet on her wrist flickering: “Lubai, get to the point.”

“Alright.” Lan Lubai smiled. “The venue for the banquet has been changed to St. Gesali. Because it’s quite far, you need to leave the hotel soon.”

After saying that, Lan Lubai glanced at Ming Fei and said meaningfully, “I received news that Minister Bai from Silla will also be attending this meeting. After learning about your marriage, she seems…”

Combined with Colonel Xu, whom they had met at the flight station this morning, Ming Fei also had some impression of this Minister Bai from Silla. Unlike the rumors about Colonel Xu’s pursuit, which were unconfirmed, this Minister Bai, from a prominent family, had publicly pursued Zhu Yiqiao.

Although the citizens of the Independent State of Yi Meng weren’t optimistic about it, in the few international meetings they had, Minister Bai expressed her admiration for Zhu Yiqiao without reservation, which had become a hot topic of discussion among the citizens of the Independent State of Yi Meng.

Zhu Yiqiao seemed to have completely forgotten this person: “I understand.”

Lan Lubai hung up the video call: “See you in an hour.”

Due to the news from the video call, the practice between them couldn’t continue. Ming Fei didn’t waste any time and quickly asked,

“Jiejie, do I need to change clothes to attend the banquet with you?”

Her attire was similar to Zhu Yiqiao’s. Except for the outer coat, they were both wearing shirts and trousers. However, Zhu Yiqiao was dressed in the Trial Court attire, which appeared more formal.

Zhu Yiqiao replied coldly, “No need.”

“Okay.”

---

St. Gesali was located in the main urban area of Taiya, a banquet hall exclusively for public officials.

Unlike the temperature in the Independent State of Yi Meng, Taiya was already covered in snow. There were snowmen built by citizens along the roads, and the robots responsible for clearing the snow would avoid the small snowmen so that people could appreciate them.

Ming Fei, facing the window in the hovercar, saw a cat made of snow.

So, she took a picture of the cat, which might soon melt, with her phone and uploaded it to 008’s internal network back in the Independent State of Yi Meng, reminding it to show Ming Zaozao.

008 immediately replied.

[Teacher Xiao Fei, please rest assured, I will let Baby feel the love from her mother as soon as she wakes up ^^]

[Please don’t worry, Baby is very well-behaved. Executive Min’s family likes her very much. She ate a lot of animal crackers made by Executive Min’s mother today and her belly is round like a little ball. Finally, I wish Teacher Xiao Fei all the best with work ^^]

Ming Fei smiled. Thinking that she could go home and see her daughter after this business trip, the curve of her lips deepened.

The hovercar crossed most of the main urban area and finally arrived at St. Gesali before seven o’clock.

Ming Fei composed herself and got out of the car first. The biting cold wind poured into her collar, and she pursed her lips, the redness on her cheeks gradually fading.

When Zhu Yiqiao got out of the car, Ming Fei was about to reach for her hand when she saw a creamy white cashmere scarf in Zhu Yiqiao’s hand. Taiya’s freezing temperatures slowed Ming Fei’s thinking a little. She thought it was for Zhu Yiqiao herself and was about to help her put it on.

But—

Zhu Yiqiao said, “Come closer.”

Ming Fei obediently moved closer, close enough to see her own reflection in Zhu Yiqiao’s blue eyes. Then, the soft and warm cashmere scarf was wrapped around her neck.

As she did so, Zhu Yiqiao’s fingertips inevitably brushed against Ming Fei’s jaw, neck, and earlobe. Understanding, and to reciprocate Zhu Yiqiao’s sudden intimacy, Ming Fei gave her a light smile.

Her voice was incredibly gentle: “Thank you, Jiejie.”

Zhu Yiqiao took her hand: “Let’s go in.”

The surrounding staff members kept glancing at them. Ming Fei guessed that the buildings on both sides of St. Gesali might be hiding reporters and photographers who wanted to be the first to publish the news.

They walked in, from the magnificent hall on the first floor to the banquet venue on the sixteenth floor. Ming Fei kept a faint smile on her face, playing the role of a dutiful partner.

Compared to the first floor, the main hall on the sixteenth floor was even more opulent. Guests filled the hall, and the scene was unprecedentedly grand. Everyone present was a prominent figure from various countries. When Zhu Yiqiao and Ming Fei entered, several ministers from Taiya offered their wedding congratulations.

“You and your partner are truly a perfect match. On behalf of the Ministry of National Security, I wish you a happy wedding.”

“…I wish you a pleasant week in Taiya.”

Ming Fei had seen many of these blessings in the official comment section of the Independent State of Yi Meng Trial Court since the announcement of their marriage. From their departure from Yi Meng to their arrival in Taiya, they had received countless blessings.

But this time, Ming Fei keenly noticed that, compared to others, these blessings were tinged with the shrewdness of politicians.

Zhu Yiqiao responded indifferently, remaining cold and aloof in this social setting, not showing any difference even though all those present were high-ranking officials. Ming Fei even felt that she was gentler to the citizens of various countries than to these politicians.

When the host of this banquet, the Chief Military Governor of Taiya, arrived, the lights in the hall seemed to dim.

Lan Lubai, who had been busy socializing with politicians from various countries, came around from the right and sat next to them. She seemed a little tired, her emerald green eyes like the aurora that only appeared in the southern region of Taiya in late winter. After taking off her Trial Court cap, she picked up a round chestnut and played with it.

Ming Fei looked at the fruit platter on the table and couldn’t help but think of the winner of Taiya’s Golden Apple Growing Championship this year.

Taiya’s basic agriculture was very developed, and here you could see all kinds of special fruits. This year’s Golden Apple Growing Champion had grown apples that were plump and juicy, larger than some competition-grade watermelons, one apple being enough to eat for half a month.

Ming Fei had been intimidated by the sheer size of the golden apple at the time.

Now, seeing the special fruits of Taiya again, she tasted a piece of sliced light yellow strawberry. The sweet fruit made her smile.

The indoor temperature was pleasant. After tasting most of the other special fruits, Ming Fei wanted to take off her scarf.

“Jiejie.”

“Mm?”

“It’s a little hot, can I take off my scarf?”

Zhu Yiqiao didn’t answer, directly taking off the scarf for Ming Fei.

The two councilors opposite them cast curious and benevolent glances at the newlywed couple.

Knowing it was just an act, Ming Fei cooperated with a smile, and Zhu Yiqiao, after taking off her scarf, even poured her some juice.

The juice in the glass was orange. Ming Fei looked down at the drink, about to do something for Zhu Yiqiao, when a sudden sound erupted from the left.

In an instant—

A bullet, accompanied by a sharp wind, flew towards her with precision.

Chapter 26: “…Jiejie, Is This Right?”

In the eyes of many professors at Q University’s Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Research Institute, the young Teacher Xiao Fei, who was offered a generous contract to stay at the university, possessed a brilliant mind adept at learning and a pair of exceptionally nimble hands, capable of crafting all sorts of handicrafts.

Intelligent, outstanding, skilled…

These were the words of praise that overflowed from colleagues whenever they talked about Ming Fei.

But now, this Teacher Xiao Fei, surrounded by praises after her transmigration, was nervously clenching her hands due to a question from her newlywed “partner.”

“—Is this the result of your practice?”

Ming Fei couldn’t refute these words. Although she had diligently read books and made a schedule to complete various exercises, she really wasn’t good at these things.

Her relationship experience was a blank slate, and her handling of intimate relationships was surprisingly bad. Worried about revealing her inexperience, she decided to consult this invincible Chief Judge.

Looking at Zhu Yiqiao, who was so close, her eyelashes trembled slightly, then she leaned in a little, closing the distance between them until there was almost no gap left. After doing this, she opened her clear almond eyes and asked, pretending to be calm,

“…Jiejie, is this right?”

She thought, in response to her partner’s approach, this kind of proactive intimacy should be correct, right?

But the reality was that Zhu Yiqiao… seemed even colder. Ming Fei felt as if frost had formed in those blue eyes, silently expressing dissatisfaction. Just as she was about to ask why, Zhu Yiqiao withdrew her finger from Ming Fei’s lips and sat back in her original position.

Both of their wrists were wearing pheromone bracelets, sharing the secret from another world. And because of the similar style and design of the bracelets, those who didn’t know might mistake them for couple bracelets.

The display on Ming Fei’s pheromone bracelet dimmed. She checked the other data on her body and found that everything was normal except for a slightly elevated heart rate.

Zhu Yiqiao said, “Let’s get out of the car.”

“Okay.”

Their luggage had been handed over to specialized transport robots before they left the villa. However, the cost of transport robots was generally high, so most people still chose to carry their luggage themselves when traveling.

Ming Fei smoothly got out of the car, but didn’t walk ahead. Instead, she stood by the hovercar door, waiting for Zhu Yiqiao.

When Zhu Yiqiao got out of the car, she asked softly, “Should we hold hands?”

Compared to her hesitant question, Zhu Yiqiao appeared more at ease. Without a word, she directly took Ming Fei’s right hand and led her into the flight station.

High-ranking public officials used the orange channel, which offered the best concealment and protection, for outbound travel. Faced with the endless unknowns, Ming Fei’s heart lifted slightly. She was a little nervous about encountering many outbound or inbound officials whom she had only seen on the public screen before.

But perhaps it was good luck. There was almost no one in the orange channel today. They only encountered a senior military officer returning through the right lane as they reached the end of the channel.

Although Zhu Yiqiao had already retired, the officer immediately stopped and saluted her when she saw her.

“Chief Judge Zhu, I didn’t expect to see you here.”

The senior officer was clearly very happy. Ming Fei guessed that she might also have been a fan of the Victory Column. Back when Zhu Yiqiao joined the Ares Special Forces, she quickly formed a special elite squad with Lan Lubai and Min Man.

Due to their outstanding performance and undefeated record, the citizens of the Independent State of Yi Meng affectionately called their squad the Victory Column.

After Zhu Yiqiao announced her retirement, Min Man, who had a background within the Trial Court, also retired immediately. When the only remaining member, Lan Lubai, announced her retirement, the public network of the Independent State of Yi Meng was paralyzed.

Because after that, there was no more Victory Column.

But even today, the name of the Victory Column was still preserved by the military, and it was still deeply etched in the hearts of every citizen of the Independent State of Yi Meng.

Ming Fei’s thoughts were brought back by their voices.

Zhu Yiqiao didn’t salute: “Colonel Xu.”

Colonel Xu, with tanned skin and heterochromia, politely looked at Ming Fei beside her: “Chief Judge Zhu, is this your partner?”

“Yes.”

Ming Fei introduced herself: “Hello, my name is Ming Fei. I currently work at Q University.”

“Hello.” Colonel Xu smiled. “Teacher Ming looks very young. Are you already teaching at Q University?”

Zhu Yiqiao glanced at the display screen in front: “My partner is twenty-five years old this year, quite young, and also rather quiet. Colonel Xu, don’t tease her.”

Hearing this, Colonel Xu laughed heartily, the wildness in her eyes softening a bit.

“On behalf of the AUW Special Forces, I wish you both a happy wedding.”

Her laughter subsided, and Colonel Xu saluted Zhu Yiqiao again: “Goodbye, and I wish you all the best.”

After the three said goodbye in the orange channel, because of Colonel Xu’s heterochromia, Ming Fei, who had slight face blindness, finally remembered who Colonel Xu was.

Her guess about the Victory Column fan was only half right. The AUW Special Forces, led by Colonel Xu, was the only team in the military that could rival the Ares Special Forces. And Colonel Xu’s personal resume was outstanding in every aspect.

But the biggest reason she remembered her was because of the rumors that Colonel Xu had once pursued Chief Judge Zhu.

“What are you thinking about?”

Ming Fei shook her head: “Nothing.”

Zhu Yiqiao reminded her, “Colonel Xu only cares about training and victory. She’s not like other shrewd politicians. Don’t mess up in front of the staff at the service counter later.”

Ming Fei assured her, “I’ll be careful, don’t worry, Jiejie.”

---

After the inspection at the service counter, Ming Fei, who had been holding her breath all the way, could finally relax a little.

They entered the aircraft. After confirming that they were the only ones in the cabin, Ming Fei released Zhu Yiqiao’s hand.

She rubbed her cheeks, sore from the forced smiles. Her porcelain-white ears had already turned crimson from the staff’s well wishes.

Zhu Yiqiao’s prestige and popularity in the Independent State of Yi Meng were truly too high. They even received wedding gifts from some of the staff. In the end, Ming Fei could barely carry them all.

“—You two look so well-matched, a match made in heaven!”

“—Seeing you, I finally understand why Chief Judge Zhu said it was love at first sight during the interview.”

“—I’m so happy for you two, happy wedding! May you have a long and happy life together.”

…

Thinking of these words of blessing, the crimson on Ming Fei’s ears deepened, but it was more from embarrassment than shyness. She unscrewed the bottled water from her seat and drank almost half of it before silently looking at Zhu Yiqiao beside her.

Noticing her gaze, Zhu Yiqiao didn’t react, just focused on her work.

Ming Fei glanced at her and then looked away. She didn’t disturb Zhu Yiqiao, opening her e-book library on her phone and choosing a newly searched illustrated guide to paleontology to read.

The book’s content was rich and interesting, and the illustrations were exceptionally realistic. Ming Fei read with relish, gradually relaxing from her tense state.

She was used to wearing black-framed glasses when reading. The inner frame had the latest anti-myopia lenses developed by the Academy of Sciences, which could achieve a 90% prevention and control effect. Ming Fei found them very useful and replaced them regularly every year.

The flight from the Independent State of Yi Meng to Taiya took three hours.

When one felt relaxed, comfortable, or happy, time seemed to pass faster than usual. Before she knew it, Ming Fei’s reading time today had reached two hours.

Because she had woken up very early, she gradually started to feel sleepy, dozing off against the seat. Just as her eyes were about to close, she heard the person next to her say slowly,

“To prevent the Taiya media from making a fuss, the hotel only booked a suite with one bed.”

Ming Fei thought it was reasonable: “Okay.”

“There’s no sofa, so we can only sleep in the same bed.”

Ming Fei started to become less calm: “…Mm.”

“After we get off the plane, practice again.”

Ming Fei’s composure completely disappeared: “…O-Okay.”

Zhu Yiqiao didn’t speak again until they arrived in Taiya. As the aircraft was about to land, Ming Fei tentatively asked,

“Jiejie, when is the banquet?”

If the banquet was tonight, then her photos would definitely be all over the Taiya news tomorrow, and the news of her being Zhu Yiqiao’s newlywed partner would quickly spread back home. This meant that in the coming days, she would be bombarded with countless messages from her friends and colleagues.

She had to be prepared. Ming Fei thought to herself.

“Friday.”

Ming Fei was relieved to get the answer, as she at least had some buffer time.

“But there’s a small banquet tonight, and you have to go with me.”

“Small?” Ming Fei looked at her. “Who will be there?”

Zhu Yiqiao looked at her: “Besides the King of Taiya, several other people you often see in the news will be present.”

Hearing this, Ming Fei felt that Zhu Yiqiao’s definition of “small banquet” was completely different from her own.

She nodded, took off her glasses, and put on her black coat, which she had taken off after boarding. Then, before exiting the aircraft and facing the staff, she took the initiative to hold Zhu Yiqiao’s hand.

Fair, warm, soft, with faint calluses from holding a gun on the webbing between her thumb and index finger, and on her knuckles.

As their fingers intertwined, the calluses rubbed against Ming Fei’s fingers, making her palm itch, and the little deer in her heart fluttered nervously.

---

The Independent State of Yi Meng time on the display screen had changed to Taiya local time.

At 17:33, they officially arrived in Taiya. After leaving the flight station, they took a pre-arranged hovercar to their hotel.

Along the way, Ming Fei enjoyed the beautiful scenery.

Before getting out of the car, Ming Fei knew that Zhu Yiqiao’s prestige wasn’t limited to the Independent State of Yi Meng. Even in the international community, Zhu Yiqiao’s reputation was among the top. But only after she got out of the car and faced the frequent glances and well wishes did she truly understand how influential and popular Chief Judge Zhu was.

Even the robot that guided them presented Zhu Yiqiao with a screen full of electronic flowers and fireworks at the end of its service.

Entering the hotel room, Ming Fei checked the room as usual. Seeing the box of finger condoms marked with a heart in the bedroom drawer, she calmly put it at the very bottom.

Taiya’s customs were more open and enthusiastic than those of the Independent State of Yi Meng, and it was perfectly normal for the hotel to prepare these.

However, Ming Fei still wasn’t used to the fact that she was in a contract marriage. She found an extra cardboard box, completely covered the condoms, and made sure there was no trace of them before closing the drawer.

After doing all this, Ming Fei walked out of the room and looked at the single sofa in the living room.

She didn’t understand the hotel’s intention in designing it this way, but she planned to spend the night on it.

Zhu Yiqiao, sitting on a single chair by the French window not far away, had taken off her uniform jacket and was only wearing a white shirt. Perhaps because the room temperature was set a bit high, Zhu Yiqiao had unbuttoned the top button of her shirt.

Ming Fei poured two glasses of warm water.

Just as she placed one of the glasses on the table, she heard Zhu Yiqiao’s emotionless voice.

“Come here.”

She obediently walked over.

Zhu Yiqiao didn’t take off her white gloves, her expressionless face the same as Ming Fei had seen on the public screen in the past few years.

Perhaps it was a kind of intuition before danger, but Ming Fei had a premonition that what was about to happen would make her heart race again and might even cause changes in other bodily functions.

And sure enough, Zhu Yiqiao made her premonition come true.

“—Start practicing now, until I deem it satisfactory.”

 

Chapter 25: Kissed

On the first day of the public holiday in the Independent State of Yi Meng, an official news bulletin caused numerous public platforms to lag, delay, crash, and become paralyzed within thirty seconds of its release.

[—15:30, October 17, 167 New Calendar, the current Chief Judge of the Trial Court, Zhu Yiqiao, announced her marriage.]

The real-time comment section below the marriage announcement was flooded with people. Many citizens of the Independent State, who were still taking afternoon naps in bed, logged onto the public network.

[Ahhh so sudden, why so sudden! Chief Judge Zhu, happy wedding!]

[The first to get married from the Victory Column is actually Chief Judge Zhu www, happy wedding, and may you have a long and happy life together!]

[Love at first sight, so sweet =v=, my biggest wish this year is for Chief Judge Zhu to have a happy wedding!]

[Wow~ It was actually Chief Judge Zhu who took the initiative! I really want to know who the Chief Judge’s partner is. When will the Trial Court’s official website be updated?]

[+1 +1, maybe it will take a few days to update, it must be a match made in heaven! Chief Judge Zhu, happy wedding!!!]

[I remember Chief Judge Zhu saying in an interview in March that she hadn’t considered marriage yet. I didn’t expect her to announce her marriage so soon, happy wedding, and may you grow old together! (flower.jpg)(flower.jpg)(flower.jpg)]

…

Given Zhu Yiqiao’s mention of “love at first sight” during the video call, Ming Fei logged onto the public network after waking up from her nap to take a look at the marriage announcement.

The blessings in the comment section were even more enthusiastic than she had imagined. Except for a small number of people who wanted to get to the bottom of it, most of the citizens of the Independent State, as well as other citizens on the international public network, were blessing the newlywed Chief Judge.

Ming Fei took a sip of her freshly brewed hot tea and clicked on the short interview linked to the marriage announcement.

[Reporter: How did you and your partner meet?]

[Zhu Yiqiao, Trial Court: I won’t reveal the details for now, but it was love at first sight for me.]

The real-time barrage for “love at first sight” was full of screams. Perhaps because she knew the inside story and the truth behind “love at first sight,” Ming Fei suddenly felt a little awkward.

[Reporter: Everyone is very concerned about whether your pursuit went smoothly, and why did you announce your marriage so suddenly?]

[Zhu Yiqiao, Trial Court: It wasn’t entirely smooth. She is very gentle and tolerant of many of the problems I had during the pursuit.]

[Zhu Yiqiao, Trial Court: Because I like her very much, I wanted to share this joyful news with everyone.]

Seeing this, Ming Fei stopped reading.

Because… another sum of money had been transferred into her account.

[Your account 2318xxx818 has received a new transfer of 19,999,999.]

[Remarks: Zhu Yiqiao.]

The fragrance of tea lingered in the corner of the study. Ming Fei looked at the two transfer balances in her account, feeling a little lost. After a moment of thought, she sent a message to Zhu Yiqiao, who was still busy at the Trial Court.

[You don’t need to pay me compensation for announcing the marriage. The suppressor patches and pheromone bracelet you gave me are enough.]

[[Kitten staring intently.jpg]]

She had thought the other party would reply slowly, but just as she was about to put down her phone, it vibrated with a new message notification.

[Chief Judge Zhu: You don’t like it?]

Ming Fei blinked, thinking to herself, who wouldn’t like money?

If someone really didn’t like money, there might be many reasons. But most of them were because they weren’t short of money, hadn’t truly experienced absolute poverty, and thus didn’t understand the hardships it brought.

Having grown up in an orphanage and been abandoned three times, she might not be in a position to say such things, but she knew a thing or two about suffering.

For example, she knew from a very young age that she had been abandoned at the orphanage because her family was poor. When she was adopted for the third time, she had wanted to refuse because of the two previous abandonments, but the orphanage was short of funds at the time and struggling to raise so many children. As the oldest orphan girl, she could only give up the idea to reduce the burden on the dean.

Such situations occurred repeatedly throughout her childhood.

Clothes and pants washed until they were faded, shoes that didn’t fit but she still squeezed her feet into, gritting her teeth and enduring as long as she wasn’t sick enough to go to the hospital, repeatedly abandoned but remaining silent.

Today, while fishing in the backyard pond, 0619 said that her hobby was truly simple and unpretentious compared to Lan Lubai’s hobby, which cost six figures each time.

But what expensive hobbies could an orphan who grew up in poverty and hardship have?

Fishing was something she gradually came to enjoy after transmigrating and interacting with her colleagues. Before this hobby appeared, her biggest hobbies were reading and mountain climbing.

In the past, the books she read were donated to the orphanage by caring people from all walks of life, and mountain climbing was because there was a steep mountain behind the orphanage. Whenever she felt sad and wanted to cry, she would climb from the foot of the mountain, step by step, until she reached the top and looked out at the distant scenery, letting the cool mountain breeze blow away the sadness in her heart.

Over time, this activity became her hobby, and she began to enjoy the process of mountain climbing alone. Not asking about the road ahead, just taking one step at a time.

So, she couldn’t say that she didn’t like money.

After taking another sip of tea, Ming Fei looked down at the ancient book on the desk. After reading a particularly insightful poem, she marked it with a highlighter before happily picking up her phone and opening her “little treasury.”

This “little treasury” app was developed and designed by her and was currently only for her own internal testing.

The amount in her little treasury was considerable. Both her savings and the money she had saved for Ming Zaozao made the corners of her lips curl up.

After exiting the app, she was about to reply to Zhu Yiqiao when the other party sent her another message.

[Chief Judge Zhu: After we arrive there, remember to change the way you address me in front of others.]

[Chief Judge Zhu: Our words and actions must be more intimate. Practice these few days.]

[Chief Judge Zhu: Since you don’t want the compensation for announcing the marriage, that amount will be considered extra compensation for your practice during the public holiday.]

Seeing the word “practice,” Ming Fei suddenly thought of the photo at the Civil Affairs Bureau. Her cheeks felt a little hot, so much so that she accidentally sent the wrong emoji, changing from a nodding bunny to a grumpy bunny.

Ming Fei was about to retract it when Zhu Yiqiao had already seen it.

[Chief Judge Zhu: You don’t want this either?]

Ming Fei didn’t want to argue about this anymore, and she felt that Zhu Yiqiao wouldn’t give her the chance to return the money anyway, so she decided, as she had thought before, to save all this money and return it to Zhu Yiqiao when the contract expired and she left.

After figuring this out, Ming Fei quickly replied.

[I understand, thank you. I will practice hard.]

[[Kitten studying hard.jpg]]

---

Ming Fei didn’t see Zhu Yiqiao for the rest of the public holiday.

On Monday afternoon, she went to school to coordinate her classes and discuss the trip to Taiya for the academic exchange with her colleagues.

The school didn’t require the teachers to depart together, only booking hotels for them in advance. Ming Fei didn’t know the specific details of Zhu Yiqiao’s arrangements, so she politely declined when her colleagues suggested going together.

She explained, “I have other matters to attend to and will probably arrive in Taiya later.”

No one minded. After discussing the key points of the academic exchange, they left the office.

It was almost 6 pm when Ming Fei returned to the villa.

Ming Zaozao, who was playing on the first floor, happily hugged Ming Fei and told her that Zhu Yiqiao had come back in the afternoon.

“Baby gave the flower drum Mommy made and the maple leaf bookmark to Auntie!”

The impending separation made Ming Fei feel reluctant. She kissed Ming Zaozao’s chubby cheeks and asked softly,

“Was Zaozao happy after giving the gifts?”

“Happy!”

Ming Zaozao smiled like a sunflower: “Auntie said that the flower drum is beautiful, and the bookmark is beautiful too. Baby told her that Mommy made them.”

The bookmark was made from the maple leaves she had picked up under the maple tree at the Civil Affairs Bureau. She originally only planned to make two, one for Ming Zaozao and one for herself. But when she looked up and saw Zhu Yiqiao, she picked up another leaf and made one more.

Then, she gave it to Zhu Yiqiao in Ming Zaozao’s name.

Ming Zaozao was still chattering.

“Mommy! Great!”

“Baby’s mommy is the best!”

Ming Fei was overwhelmed by Ming Zaozao’s praise. After playing with her on the sofa for a while, she took her to the dining room for dinner. Zhu Yiqiao didn’t return to the villa until Ming Zaozao fell asleep. Ming Fei only received a message from Zhu Yiqiao informing her of their departure time.

The next morning, Zhu Yiqiao and Min Man arrived at the villa in a hovercar.

Ming Fei said goodbye to Ming Zaozao, gently telling her to listen to Auntie Min Man and that she would bring her many gifts when she returned. Ming Zaozao obediently agreed and didn’t cry when she saw Ming Fei leave with Zhu Yiqiao.

The silver hovercar sped along the hover track.

Ming Fei, sitting in the back seat, was concentrating on reading the exchange materials on the display screen. Her long hair was tied up on the right side, and she wore black-framed glasses on the bridge of her nose. A few strands of hair fell down, making her look like a college student.

Neither of them spoke during the journey.

It wasn’t until the hovercar entered the Nanhua Cross-Sea Bridge that Ming Fei, having finished reading the materials, looked up and politely asked,

“Chief Judge Zhu, have you had breakfast?”

It was still early, but there was a time difference between the two countries. It would probably be three or four in the afternoon when they landed in Taiya. Zhu Yiqiao, who seemed to be resting with her eyes closed, opened her eyes at the question and corrected Ming Fei’s address.

“Are you going to address me like that in front of the staff at the flight station after we get off?”

Ming Fei paused, subconsciously wanting to apologize: “I shouldn’t—”

The Nanhua Cross-Sea Bridge was considered a scenic spot in the Independent State of Yi Meng. The distant sea level was tinged with a light gold, and the sea shimmered under the bright sunlight. A few rays of morning light penetrated the hovercar’s window, making Zhu Yiqiao’s deep blue eyes look like a dangerous and alluring deep sea.

She interrupted Ming Fei’s apology: “No need to apologize, you didn’t do anything wrong.”

Ming Fei nodded: “Okay.”

Tentatively, Ming Fei softly called her, “…Jiejie.”

Zhu Yiqiao responded: “Mm.”

The hovercar passed the Nanhua Cross-Sea Bridge and entered a dark tunnel. The sunlight immediately disappeared, and even the car’s interior, lit by sensor lights, seemed to dim.

Zhu Yiqiao asked, “How is your practice going?”

Ming Fei pursed her lips: “It should be okay.”

In fact, she wasn’t sure what exactly she needed to practice. She had flipped through many books in the vast library, finally settling on two somewhat miscellaneous books on social etiquette and a best-selling book on expressing intimacy.

Zhu Yiqiao didn’t speak.

When the hovercar passed through the tunnel and arrived at the flight station, Ming Fei took off her glasses and was about to get out of the car when Zhu Yiqiao remained motionless beside her, like an ice sculpture.

Because this was a business trip, Zhu Yiqiao was still wearing the dark uniform of the Trial Court, with a darker cloak over it. Her hands, which usually held a gun, were now wearing thin white gloves.

Ming Fei was a little puzzled. Just as she was about to speak, the person beside her suddenly moved closer with lightning speed. The safe distance between them completely disappeared. The display screen on Ming Fei’s pheromone bracelet flickered, and her warm lips… were touched by a gloved fingertip.

In front of this retired colonel, who still held the world sniping record, Ming Fei’s reaction was no match. Moreover, she trusted Zhu Yiqiao very much now and didn’t resist at all.

The soft bead of her lip was pressed inward. A little closer, and it seemed like they would kiss.

“Your partner approaches you intimately, and you have no reaction.”

At such close proximity, Ming Fei’s ears felt hot, and her clear eyes were filled with surprise.

Zhu Yiqiao looked at her: “Is this the result of your practice?”

Chapter 24: “How Did You Transmigrate?”

In the Ole Empire, located in another space-time/dimension, in addition to having males, which the Independent State of Yi Meng lacked, humans were also divided into six groups based on glands and pheromones, as differentiation characteristics, in addition to male and female genders: male alpha, female alpha, male omega, female omega, male beta, and female beta.

Because the Ole Empire believed that ABO differentiation was a divinely ordained evolutionary guide, the six groups were further categorized into six levels based on gland and pheromone differentiation characteristics, ranked from highest to lowest: A, B, C, D, E, and the lowest, F.

Due to the different group types and levels, people would enter different occupational fields in the social division of labor after differentiation.

The aristocratic class and the wealthy class at the top of the pyramid had access to prediction instruments and various drugs to improve differentiation levels that were unavailable to the common class. This further led to a series of problems, such as the rigidification of social mobility and the widening gap between the rich and the poor in the Ole Empire.

Ming Fei never understood the meaning of such classifications since childhood, because after differentiation, apart from having glands and pheromones, humans were the same in every other aspect.

But this kind of domestication and alienation seemed to be ingrained in the people of the Ole Empire. Except for a few dissenting voices, most classes agreed and believed that this was just a natural result of survival of the fittest after human evolution.

And Ming Fei had always been among the very few dissenters.

So, after transmigrating, when she learned about the development history and social order of the Independent State of Yi Meng, she immediately gave up the idea of trying to go back. Because in comparison, all aspects of the Independent State of Yi Meng… were almost like a utopia from history books.

Even if the Ole Empire developed for another thousand years, it couldn’t match the welfare benefits of the Independent State of Yi Meng.

Therefore, before she had any contact with Zhu Yiqiao, she had never worried about her defective alpha identity being exposed. Because based on the social development of the Independent State of Yi Meng, she believed that even if the citizens knew about the ABO world that existed in another dimension, they wouldn’t be interested in the differences between the two worlds.

They might even think that the so-called ABO differentiation was actually a form of retrogression, a return to animalistic instincts. And the so-called ABO civilization, which divided humans based on differentiation and created huge social conflicts, might be the truly inferior civilization.

Most importantly, the citizens of the Independent State of Yi Meng wouldn’t be interested in a world with males.

Before differentiating and transmigrating, although Ming Fei didn’t have any expectations for relationships, she was very clear that she liked women. And because genetic matching in the Independent State of Yi Meng would only result in girls, she chose to undergo the procedure without hesitation.

So… no matter what Zhu Yiqiao had differentiated as, Ming Fei wouldn’t be surprised.

When Zhu Yiqiao finished speaking, Ming Fei was as calm as an undisturbed autumn lake, as if she had only heard an ordinary reply like “I’ve had dinner.”

She nodded, her almond eyes bright: “Mm. I’m also an alpha.”

The bookshelves in the study were automatic, triangular in shape like clusters of fragrant and colorful bougainvillea. Zhu Yiqiao, sitting at the desk, had a cold and indifferent look in her eyes. The collar of her shirt under her uniform was slightly upturned.

“How did you transmigrate?” she asked.

Ming Fei recalled, “I fell asleep in the hospital and woke up. On the way back to school, I fainted again, and when I woke up again, I was in Taoqiu Village in the Independent State of Yi Meng.”

“Nothing special happened before I transmigrated.”

Zhu Yiqiao didn’t say whether she believed it or not: “Mm.”

Ming Fei asked in return, “What about you?”

“Similar to you.”

Taking this opportunity, Ming Fei tentatively asked further, “Then how did you get these pheromone suppressor patches and bracelets?”

Zhu Yiqiao rested her chin on one hand, a pheromone suppression bracelet similar to Ming Fei’s on her fair wrist. Seeming to think that the usually timid rabbit was a bit bolder now, she tightened the net and didn’t offer any further explanation.

“I’ll tell you later.”

Ming Fei smiled: “Okay. Then I’ll go back to my room.”

“Mm.”

“Goodnight, Chief Judge Zhu.”

---

Going downstairs from the third floor, Ming Fei passed by Ming Zaozao’s room and peeked through the crack in the door. After seeing that the little radish head was sleeping soundly and hadn’t kicked off the blanket, she returned to her own bedroom and checked her gland with the multi-function mirror.

Beneath the thin skin, it was as soft as ever.

She… didn’t know why she suddenly had a pheromone scent, but having a pheromone scent wouldn’t affect her life as long as she didn’t have a heat cycle. Even if she did have a heat cycle, the bracelet should be able to control it.

She would just have to switch classes with other teachers in advance and ask for leave from the school. She thought.

After falling asleep, Ming Fei had a very restless night, because she dreamed of her third adoptive parent. Compared to her other two adoptive parents, her third adoptive parent had been relatively good to her.

However, this kindness was quickly withdrawn after the adoptive parent’s own child arrived.

“Xiao Fei, when we first adopted you, we didn’t think we would have our own child.”

“The cost of raising two children is high, and we don’t want to treat you poorly by tightening our belts. I’ve already called the dean. We’ll send you back later.”

“Take this money, consider it our apology and compensation.”

So, she once again became the one who was abandoned.

The dream fell into a loop, indifferent gazes, fierce and frightening faces, sharp and piercing words, bizarre and grotesque dreams, as ethereal as gauze, yet as heavy as a mountain, pressing down on her, almost suffocating her.

When she woke up again, the sky outside the window was bright, and the birdsong in the garden was clear and pleasant.

Ming Fei took a few deep breaths, went into the bathroom for a shower, and changed her clothes. When she went to check on Ming Zaozao, she found that Ming Zaozao had already gotten up and gone downstairs. She quickly walked towards the living room and slowed down when she saw the adult and child sitting in front of the French window, playing with building blocks together.

Because this scene… was truly beautiful.

Sunlight streamed through the French window, the warm glow enveloping the usually cold Zhu Yiqiao, softening her aura. And at this moment, she was wearing white home clothes, her long curly hair falling over her shoulders, a hint of a smile in her blue eyes. Sitting next to the innocent and cute Ming Zaozao, she really looked like a lazy large feline.

However, the hint of a smile disappeared after she saw Ming Fei.

On the contrary, Ming Zaozao’s smile became even brighter: “Mommy!”

Ming Fei walked over to them: “Mm, good morning, Zaozao.”

“Good morning, Mommy~”

Ming Zaozao couldn’t wait to share, “Auntie just said that she has time today and can take Baby to the aquarium!”

Ming Fei stroked her head: “Mm, then when are we leaving?”

“After breakfast!”

“Okay.”

Ming Zaozao looked at her expectantly: “Is Mommy going?”

Ming Fei wanted them to spend time alone, because Zhu Yiqiao was Ming Zaozao’s other mother, and Zhu Yiqiao was usually very busy with work, with very little time to spend alone with Ming Zaozao.

She said, “Zaozao, sorry, Mommy has other work to do.”

Ming Zaozao was very understanding: “Okay! See you at home~”

“Mm.” Ming Fei said gently, “Have fun, Zaozao.”

After breakfast together, Ming Fei was soon the only one left in the entire villa. Although her daily life was simple, it wasn’t without its joys. After finishing her work in the study, she took the fishing rod Lan Lubai had given her and went to the fish pond in the backyard.

The cold wind was blowing. Ming Fei, bundled up warmly, was sitting by the pond fishing with 008 and 0619.

Seasonal flowers in the garden bloomed in shades of red and purple, and the fragrant scent of flowers filled Ming Fei’s nostrils. She stared at the calm surface of the pond, a faint smile playing on her gentle features. The intelligent robot 008 couldn’t help but say,

“Teacher Xiao Fei, it’s freezing cold, but you’re fishing here alone, and smiling so happily. Is there something on your mind?”

Ming Fei smiled: “Doing what you like makes you happy.”

0619 praised: “Compared to Executive Lan’s hobby, which costs six figures every time she indulges in it, Teacher Xiao Fei’s hobby is truly simple and unpretentious. 0619 is willing to serve you for a lifetime!”

Ming Fei chuckled: “You don’t have to be so dramatic with me.”

0619’s display showed a blushing emoji: “Okay, switching to the thirty-third calm personality mode for you.”

The surroundings became quiet, but soon, Ming Fei couldn’t bring herself to smile. 008, connected to her phone, suddenly displayed a notification from the academy on its white screen.

[Following instructions from higher authorities, all young teachers of the academy are hereby notified to attend an academic forum exchange in Taiya next week. Please adjust your class schedules accordingly and depart on time next Tuesday.]

Not only that, but after this notification, she received a video call invitation from Zhu Yiqiao.

The moment she answered the call, Ming Fei was a little surprised, because the background on the other end wasn’t the aquarium. She couldn’t help but ask,

“Chief Judge Zhu, isn’t Zaozao with you?”

“Something came up, and I had to return to the Trial Court.” Zhu Yiqiao explained, “Min Man and Lubai are with her.”

Hearing this, Ming Fei felt relieved: “Mm.”

She asked again, “Is there something you need? Why did you call?”

Because of the incoming video call ringtone, all the fish that were about to bite ran away, and Ming Fei’s bucket was still empty.

She waited quietly and patiently for Zhu Yiqiao’s answer, her porcelain-white face buried in her scarf against the cold wind.

After a moment of silence, Zhu Yiqiao informed her,

“I have to go to Taiya next week.”

Ming Fei’s eyes flickered slightly: “I just received a notification from the academy that I also have to go abroad next week.”

“You need to attend a banquet with me. During this time, we must live and travel together.” Zhu Yiqiao looked at her. “Therefore, I hope to announce our marriage this afternoon.”

Live and travel together?

Announce the marriage?

So soon…

Ming Fei bit her lip: “Okay, I’ll follow your arrangements.”

“I’ve already had people handle the media, so you don’t need to worry about any other pressure. After the agreement is terminated in a year, I will pay you another compensation for announcing the marriage.”

Ming Fei refused: “It’s okay. Then how do you plan to explain it to the public?”

Not long after the gene theft case, there was such explosive news. Some people would definitely try to investigate. Therefore, Ming Fei felt it was safer and more prudent to prepare a statement in advance.

A double-petaled rose next to her slowly fell, and Ming Fei heard Zhu Yiqiao’s prepared statement.

“—Because, it was love at first sight.”

Chapter 23: “The Whole House is Filled With Your Pheromone Scent.”

“—Ming Fei.”

“—You’re an alpha, aren’t you?”

When she first heard these words, Ming Fei’s brain completely froze. The impact of this question was far greater than being suddenly restrained by Zhu Yiqiao’s handcuffs.

She dazedly pondered the question.

…Chief Judge Zhu, Zhu Yiqiao.

How could she know that she was an alpha?

Or, how could Zhu Yiqiao even know about the existence of alphas?

Whether it was the extensive information gathering at the beginning of her transmigration, or the in-depth research in the eight years since, she was absolutely certain that this world didn’t have ABO differentiation characterized by glands, pheromones, and so on.

Therefore, she had even worried about complete failure when she first tried genetic matching.

…Wait.

Genetic matching?!

Her frozen brain slowly began to reboot. Ming Fei’s eyes widened in disbelief, her dark pupils fixed on the person in front of her. As their eyes met, Ming Fei saw her own reflection in Zhu Yiqiao’s blue eyes.

Black hair, blue eyes.

Genetic matching.

Joined the army eight years ago.

Alpha…

The bug causing the freeze was completely fixed. Ming Fei connected all the clues and arrived at a realization.

Time flowed by, as hazy as the moonlight tonight.

Lost in thought and verification, Ming Fei didn’t notice how much time had passed, so much so that 0619, somewhere in the house, announced the time according to its programming, and the person in front of her tightened her grip on Ming Fei’s chin, silently urging her to answer.

So, Ming Fei suppressed the surprise in her eyes, and as she gave her reply, she also asked uncertainly,

“…Yes, I am.”

“Then… what about Jiejie?”

Perhaps it was Ming Fei’s imagination, but she felt the surrounding air grow colder after her answer. A chill filled the living room. Zhu Yiqiao didn’t reply, continuing to look down at her, her hand still gripping Ming Fei’s chin.

Ming Fei felt a little lost, because she had honestly admitted her identity, shared her biggest secret with Zhu Yiqiao, and even softened her tone, changing her address to “Jiejie.”

But… Zhu Yiqiao didn’t seem to appreciate it.

Troubled, Ming Fei’s thoughts raced, and she couldn’t help but start guessing what Zhu Yiqiao might be. But as soon as she tried to recall things from before her transmigration, she felt that such speculation was offensive and intrusive.

Because no matter what she had differentiated as before, Zhu Yiqiao was still Zhu Yiqiao.

And, if Zhu Yiqiao was really a transmigrator like her, then at the beginning of her transmigration, Zhu Yiqiao must have suffered a lot like her. Even more so, Zhu Yiqiao, who joined the army and faced death countless times on the battlefield, must have experienced far more hardship and suffering than her.

Thinking of this, she stopped speculating and felt even more respect for Chief Judge Zhu, who had received the highest honor and ten medals of the Independent State of Yi Meng.

“Chief Judge Zhu, I am indeed an alpha.”

She softly requested, “Could you please let go of my—”

Before she could finish, Zhu Yiqiao released her hand and sat back down.

The distance between them closed again. Ming Fei moved her still-cuffed right wrist. The cold silver handcuff was like a snake’s tail, automatically tightening around her wrist.

Before the atmosphere could fall into an awkward silence, Ming Fei tentatively asked,

“How did you find out?”

As soon as she finished speaking, a flicker of doubt crossed Zhu Yiqiao’s eyes. The question was almost like burying one’s head in the sand. The whole house was filled with the faint scent of pear, a gentle and light fragrance, but anyone who had taken a physiology class after differentiating would be able to recognize it as an alpha’s pheromone scent.

The bracelet on her right wrist lit up. Zhu Yiqiao glanced at the data on the display and asked impassively,

“Do you really not know?”

Ming Fei blinked in confusion: “Sorry, I really don’t know.”

Because she had attended Q University’s centennial celebration tonight, Zhu Yiqiao had already removed her pistol. Otherwise, when Ming Fei answered this question, she would have directly pointed the gun at her gland, making her reconsider her answer.

Because no matter from which perspective, this unrestricted release of pheromones, coupled with an innocent claim of ignorance, could be considered an extremely rude offense or provocation. And before her transmigration, during her time at the Southern Military Academy, no alpha dared to provoke her like this.

Seeing Zhu Yiqiao’s aura growing colder and colder, the entire living room feeling like a frozen wasteland, Ming Fei quickly explained,

“I’m sorry, Chief Judge Zhu.”

“The previous personal information was indeed fabricated, but I really was an orphan before I transmigrated.” Her voice was calm. “I lived in the remote eastern border of the Ole Empire. The educational conditions in the orphanage there were limited. I only took basic physiology classes. After differentiating, I hadn’t had time to study specialized physiology courses before I suddenly transmigrated.”

She didn’t hide anything, continuing, “Before I transmigrated, I was classified as a defective alpha. You should know that defective alphas don’t have pheromones and can’t sense the pheromones of omegas or other alphas. My situation is the same as a beta, so I really don’t know how you found out.”

However, in the next moment, Zhu Yiqiao announced a fact that shocked Ming Fei.

“Ming Fei.”

“The whole house is filled with your pheromone scent now.”

Ming Fei, her eyes widening in shock, subconsciously turned to look at her gland. She had clearly checked her gland while taking a bath, and it looked no different than usual. Why did she… suddenly have a pheromone scent? Was the faint fragrance she smelled in the bathroom, bedroom, and living room her pheromone scent?

Ming Fei began to ponder the reason, bewildered and confused, but her knowledge in this area was truly lacking, so she could only turn to the frosty Chief Judge for help.

She subconsciously said, “I’m sorry, Chief Judge Zhu.”

Although she didn’t know much, she also knew that such behavior was tantamount to provocation and invasion. But the truth was that she had no such malicious intent. Whether before or after knowing the truth, she respected Chief Judge Zhu from the bottom of her heart.

“Sorry,” she said anxiously. “I don’t know how to suppress this. Do you have any solutions?”

“If you know how to solve this, could you please help me?”

After saying that, she stared at the person beside her, trying to find a flicker of softening in her indifferent expression. But Zhu Yiqiao, just like that day before signing the marriage agreement at the Trial Court, let this trapped prey worry, feel helpless, and be nervous.

After noticing that the pheromone scent in the room seemed to have intensified, Zhu Yiqiao suddenly stood up and said casually,

“Follow me.”

The silver handcuffs on their wrists hadn’t been unlocked yet. Only the owner of these military handcuffs from the Trial Court knew how to unlock them. But Zhu Yiqiao didn’t seem to have any intention of unlocking them, so Ming Fei could only follow her, her right hand maintaining a distance of ten centimeters from Zhu Yiqiao’s left hand.

They took the elevator to the third floor, and Ming Fei followed Zhu Yiqiao closely into the study.

This was the first time she had entered the study on the third floor. She didn’t let her gaze wander around, just glanced at it and politely looked away. The layout of the room was completely different from the second floor. She almost knocked over an expensive collectible when she walked past the sofa.

The person in front stopped.

Ming Fei also stopped.

“Turn around.”

Ming Fei obediently turned around: “Okay.”

An electronic unlocking sound came from behind her. If there was a switch to control her hearing, Ming Fei, with her eyes closed, would want to temporarily turn off her ears at this moment. She waited quietly, her tall figure reflected on the floor, intertwined with the shadow of the person behind her, yet it wasn’t jarring at all, but rather harmonious and complementary.

After a while, Ming Fei heard instructions from the person behind her.

“You can turn around now.”

“Okay.”

She turned around, and a silver box came into view. The box didn’t contain any priceless jewels, but rather something Ming Fei found familiar and as precious as a treasure – pheromone suppressor patches.

Rectangular, colorless, and odorless.

Ming Fei was both surprised and delighted: “Are these yours?”

Zhu Yiqiao said, “They’re yours now.”

After saying that, she opened another darker silver box, revealing a black bracelet inside: “This is a pheromone suppression bracelet. Put on the patch first, then wear this.”

Ming Fei didn’t know why Zhu Yiqiao had these things that didn’t belong to this world at all. But she couldn’t think too much about it now. She only knew that Zhu Yiqiao in front of her had indeed helped her.

“Thank you.”

“Thank you very much.”

Then, holding the box, she softly requested, “Chief Judge Zhu, can you unlock the handcuffs now?”

The silver handcuffs that bound their wrists together automatically detached with a beep. Ming Fei moved her stiff wrists, preparing to thank her again and leave with the box when Zhu Yiqiao spoke first.

“Put them on in the bathroom.”

“Okay,” she said sincerely. “Thank you.”

“The handcuffs were to prevent your pheromones from going out of control.” Zhu Yiqiao looked at her for a few seconds and said in a low voice, “I am responsible for the citizens of the Independent State of Yi Meng.”

Ming Fei’s eyes were clear: “It’s okay, I understand.”

She smiled, not minding being handcuffed, because she truly understood Zhu Yiqiao’s reaction at that moment. Moreover, Zhu Yiqiao hadn’t hurt her, and now she had even helped her again.

After saying that, Ming Fei took the box and went into the bathroom, quickly putting on the patch and bracelet. After making sure everything was secure, she cupped some warm water and washed her face before leaving. When she came out again, she could feel that the scent in the room seemed to have faded a little.

Feeling even more grateful, she quickly walked to Zhu Yiqiao’s desk.

“Chief Judge Zhu, thank you very much.”

Zhu Yiqiao didn’t speak, her cold gaze fixed on the document on the desk.

Thinking of something, Ming Fei mustered her courage and asked, “Chief Judge Zhu, if it’s convenient, could I ask what my pheromone scent is? Maybe because I’m a defective alpha, I can’t identify my own pheromone scent yet.”

Zhu Yiqiao’s gaze fell on her through the warm light.

“Pear.”

In a flash, Ming Fei, who had never been particularly fond of pears, suddenly thought of Zhu Yiqiao’s favorite fruit listed in the official Trial Court document—the water-snow pear from Dongqing City in the Independent State of Yi Meng.

Before she could politely thank her, Zhu Yiqiao immediately answered her first question.

“—And, I’m an alpha.”