Carlos froze in place, slowly raising his head. He saw the boy retreating abruptly to the corner of the bed, trembling, his face pale with fear and his eyes filled with utter despair…

 

In that moment, the icy cold extinguished all of Carlos's desires, replaced by a searing pain that chilled him to the bone.

 

 

 

Carlos locked eyes with the boy's terrified gaze, his hand clenching into a fist.

 

From the beginning, Carlos could sense the boy's compliance. But the more obedient Ji Ling seemed, the more his current resistance hurt Carlos—because this time, the fear was genuine, not an act. It came from the depths of his soul.

 

Carlos had tried, but he still couldn’t go through with it.

 

Even though he’d threatened Ji Ling with Wen Yan’s life, he couldn’t cross this line.

 

A bitter smile tugged at Carlos’s lips, as if someone were tearing his heart apart. Regret turned his blood cold. What am I even doing...?

 

He knew what the boy had endured at the hands of the rebels, yet he had selfishly disregarded Ji Ling’s will, seeking to force himself on him, triggering those painful memories.

 

 

 

After a moment of silence, Carlos stood up. He slowly buttoned his shirt, his trembling hands betraying his inner turmoil. He said nothing, but the effort to suppress his emotions was evident.

 

Ji Ling didn’t dare lift his head, his face ashen with lingering fear. We're both men—why is Carlos’s so terrifying...?

 

Carlos glanced down at the boy trembling at the edge of the bed, still lost in fear. Beneath his deep anguish, a cold fury began to surface.

 

 

Who would have thought that the man idolized by the masses, the seemingly flawless and upright soldier, was actually the cold and ruthless Gabriel? A man capable of committing such vile acts against an innocent, defenseless boy?

 

 

 

Carlos took a deep breath, wanting to reach out and comfort the terrified boy. But in the end, he didn’t move. His presence would only heighten Ji Ling’s fear.

 

“Our wedding will take place in one week,” Carlos said, his voice hoarse.

 

Then, without another word, he turned and left.

 

His departing figure heavy with sorrow.

 

Ji Ling kept his head down, ears straining to listen as Carlos’s footsteps faded. Only when he was sure the man had truly gone did he lift his head in a daze.

 

 

 

Even though he’d managed to fend off Carlos today, what were the chances he could escape his fate a week from now?

 

The thought filled Ji Ling with dread. There was no sense of relief from narrowly avoiding disaster—only greater fear and despair. He felt like a condemned man awaiting execution. With a tearful face, he wailed: [System, system, what do I do? I’m really going to die this time, waaaah!]

 

System: [......]

 

Ji Ling: [System, why aren’t you saying anything? QAQ]

 

System: [My condolences?]

 

Ji Ling: [......]

 

 

Even though he was in such a miserable state, this system was still mocking him!

 

Ji Ling felt like an ant scalded on a hot pan. He had to figure out a way to escape. Who could have imagined that Carlos’s... thing... would be so terrifying? Was this a unique trait of aliens?

 

 

But humiliation was secondary. If surviving meant enduring that, then yes, he could swallow his pride. But when it came to the real deal? That thing wasn’t just for humiliation—it was life-threatening.

 

Ji Ling glanced down at his own modestly-sized Ji Ling Junior, then remembered the horrifying monstrosity he’d accidentally glimpsed earlier. Tears welled up again.

 

 

 

 

………………

Ji Ling cried himself to sleep.

 

The next morning, warm sunlight bathed his face. In his groggy state, he seemed to hear a gentle voice calling to him. It was soft, distant, and comforting—like a mother’s voice calling her child…

 

Ji Ling slowly opened his eyes.

 

A gentle young woman dressed in a maid outfit stood before him, her clear amber eyes brimming with curiosity. Smiling, she said, “Young master, it's time to get up and eat.”

 

As Ji Ling's consciousness gradually returned, he was surprised to see someone other than Carlos nearby. He asked in surprise, “Carlos... where is he?”

 

The young woman smiled and replied, “His Grace has some business to attend to and asked me to take care of you. My name is Lina, and I'll be responsible for your daily life here from now on.”

 

Hearing that Carlos wasn’t around, Ji Ling felt a wave of relief and gave a shy smile to the gentle woman.

 

Right now, he was genuinely afraid of Carlos and didn’t want to see him!

 

Following Lina, Ji Ling arrived at an expansive dining room. The long table was already filled with exquisite dishes. Lina pulled out a chair for him, helping him to sit down.

 

As Ji Ling began eating, Lina stood attentively nearby. When she noticed him eyeing a dish, she subtly signaled the other servants to bring it closer. She handed him a napkin with a warm smile if his mouth got dirty. Her care was meticulous, almost overwhelming. Feeling embarrassed, Ji Ling hesitated and said, “You don’t have to go to so much trouble. I can handle it myself.”

 

Lina blinked and replied, “It's my job to serve you. If you refuse my service, I’ll be dismissed, and I may never find another job as good as this one.”

 

Ji Ling, hearing this, couldn’t bring himself to insist further. Flustered, he allowed Lina to serve him, his cheeks tinged with a light blush.

 

As she observed Ji Ling’s bashful side profile, a thoughtful look crossed Lina’s face. When he wasn’t paying attention, a hint of amusement flickered in her expression. So this is the person Carlos cherishes so much? She hadn't expected someone so shy and adorable! It made her want to tease him, but recalling Carlos’ warnings, she reluctantly put aside the idea.

 

Lina had worked for Carlos’ family for over a century, previously serving his mother. She had watched Carlos grow up and had never seen the cold, ruthless man so attentive to anyone before.

 

It was astonishing and only made Lina even more curious about Ji Ling.

 

Unbeknownst to him, the gentle and beautiful ‘young lady’ before him was an ancient being even older than Carlos himself and the overseer of this entire palace.

 

After breakfast, Ji Ling stepped out of the dining room and hesitated by the door. He wasn’t sure if he had freedom here.

 

He didn’t know where he should go or where he could go.

 

Noticing his hesitation, Lina sweetly said, “Would you like to tour the palace, young master? Or perhaps take a stroll in the city? You’re free to go anywhere.”

 

Ji Ling stared at her in surprise.

 

Lina continued with a cheerful smile, “This entire planet belongs to His Grace. As his fiancée, you’re naturally its mistress. You can go wherever you wish.”

 

 

 

Ji Ling, however, felt no sense of being the planet's master. Instead, he saw it as a chance to explore. Maybe he’d find an opportunity to escape or call for help...

 

Cautiously, he glanced at Lina and tentatively said, “I’d like to go out and see the planet. I’ve never been here before.”

 

Without hesitation, Lina nodded and replied warmly, “Of course.” Then, raising her voice slightly, she called, “Mark, you lazy oaf! Where are you? Come here and escort the young master!”

 

Within seconds, a tall man clad in armor stomped over. He was Mark, the head of palace security.

 

In a deep, rumbling voice, Mark asked, “Where does the young master want to go?”

 

Ji Ling was caught off guard by the question.

 

Lina, ever observant, quickly suggested, “Would you like to visit the finest hotel in the city, enjoy the latest opera, take in the scenic views of South Mountain, or simply go for a walk?”

 

Wide-eyed and unsure, Ji Ling mumbled, “Uh... could you lead the way?”

 

Lina burst into laughter.

 

 

Within minutes, Lina had arranged a carriage for their outing and, along with Mark, accompanied Ji Ling as they left the palace.

 

Under Lina’s guidance, Ji Ling first took in some scenic views, watched an opera, sampled local delicacies, and bought a few trinkets while strolling through the streets. Lina, who seemed to know every corner of the city, filled the journey with fascinating anecdotes, local legends, and even a few funny mishaps, often leaving Ji Ling laughing uncontrollably. By noon, Ji Ling was almost charmed by her...

 

She was so beautiful, lively, and kind...

 

Lina, meanwhile, found Ji Ling more and more endearing with his innocent and guileless demeanor. She couldn’t help but marvel at the contrast: who would’ve thought that someone as cunning and ruthless as Carlos would fall for such a sweet and naive person?

 

 

Ji Ling, of course, had no idea about Lina’s musings. Nor did he notice the curiosity and reverence in the eyes of those around him.

 

In the Sosa System, Ji Ling was quite the celebrity.

 

Though he had never been here before, his name was legendary.

 

As the person Carlos had defied the emperor to obtain, Ji Ling’s fame had spread across numerous star systems. On Carlos’ home turf in the Sosa System, his name was a favorite topic of gossip.

 

Seeing Ji Ling escorted by the palace’s head steward Lina and its formidable chief of security Mark—both treating him with such respect—only underscored his unique status.

 

It was clear Carlos cared deeply for him.

 

Regardless of how sincere Carlos’ affections were, Ji Ling had undeniably been showered with love and prestige.

 

By midday, Ji Ling had spent hours wandering outside. While Lina was endlessly kind and attentive, her watchful eye left him no chance to contact anyone for help—or to escape.

 

Moreover... Ji Ling couldn’t deny that he’d been so entertained all morning that he almost forgot his plans!

 

Just then, Lina turned to him with a smile. “Young master, are you feeling tired? Up ahead is the finest hotel in the city. While the dishes there may not rival those in the palace, they do have some excellent specialties worth trying. Why don’t we stop there for a while?”

 

Ji Ling nodded reluctantly. “Alright.”

 

Lina couldn’t help but turn her face to the side, stifling a laugh as she watched Ji Ling's obedient demeanor. Ah, she really wanted to pinch this little cutie's cheeks. Where did Carlos even find such a treasure? She was almost tempted to steal him for herself.

 

But the thought of the consequences quickly sobered her up. If she really did that, Carlos might lose all decorum and kill her on the spot.

 

Leading Ji Ling into the hotel, Lina immediately caught the attention of the staff. One server trembled as he stammered, “Li... Lina... Lady Lina—”

 

A sharp glare from Lina silenced him before he could finish. Turning back to Ji Ling with a gentle smile, she said, “Young Master, that table has a lovely view. Shall we sit there?”

 

Ji Ling nodded without hesitation and followed Lina to the spot.

 

Seeing how terrified the server had been earlier, he mused inwardly, Even a maid from Carlos’ palace commands such authority...

 

 

After seating Ji Ling, Lina asked gently, “Young Master, are you hungry? Shall I get some fruit for you?”

 

Ji Ling quickly shook his head, feeling increasingly embarrassed about troubling her all morning. “No need, you can sit down too. We’re outside now; there’s no need to be so formal.”

 

Lina's eyes gleamed for a moment, and she politely took the seat beside him, smiling sweetly. “Thank you.”

 

Ji Ling looked even more flustered.

 

Covering her mouth to hide a chuckle, Lina discreetly gestured to Mark, signaling him to notify Carlos. She felt she couldn’t just stand by while the cold and calculating Carlos had finally found someone he cared about.

 

Unaware of all this, Ji Ling rested his chin on his hand and began to daydream.

 

Scattered around the floor, a few well-dressed nobles dined gracefully, exuding an air of elegance and refinement.

 

Suddenly, a sharp voice jolted Ji Ling from his thoughts. He turned to see a server trembling beside a broken plate and spilled food.

 

A middle-aged nobleman with sharp features and golden hair sat nearby, his icy gaze fixed on the server.

 

The server stammered out apologies, bowing deeply. “I’m sorry! It was an accident! I’ll replace it right away.”

 

But the nobleman’s servant stepped forward, kicking the server in the chest with a cruel sneer. “Do you think replacing it doesn’t take time? The Marquis has already waited long enough, and now, because of your incompetence, he’s supposed to wait even longer? Do you realize how valuable the Marquis’ time is?”

 

The server was kicked so hard that he almost vomited blood and seemed to have broken ribs, clutching his chest in pain, and seemed on the verge of tears. He knelt and pleaded desperately. “Please forgive me just this once…”

 

Marquis Roland watched coldly, a faint smirk on his lips. “A lowly wretch like you, who can’t even handle such a trivial task, has no right to exist.”

 

The server’s face turned ashen with despair.

 

Ji Ling frowned deeply, surprised but not entirely unfamiliar with this scene. He sighed inwardly at the harsh reality of how nobles treated commoners in the empire. In Carlos’ Sosa System, where class divides were even more severe, such blatant cruelty wasn’t uncommon.

 

While Ji Ling couldn’t change the entire system, he couldn’t ignore an injustice that happened right in front of him. 

 

Rising from his seat, he said sharply, “It’s just a spilled dish, and he’s already apologized. Isn’t it too much to keep pressing the issue?”

 

Lina’s face changed, and she quickly followed after him.

 

Marquis Roland was surprised someone dared to interfere in such a trivial matter. 

 

The people who dined here were all high-ranking nobles. Who would bother with the affairs of such a lowly ant? Moreover, everyone here was acquainted with one another, making it even less likely. He focused his gaze for a moment, furrowed his brows briefly, and then revealed a mocking smile.

 

Ah, so it’s Ji Ling. That explains it.

 

Though Roland didn’t know Ji Ling personally, he had heard of him. The infamous pampered wastrel who, oddly enough, turned out to be a soft-hearted busybody. So this was the one Carlos was so smitten with? Unbelievable.

 

Unlike others who might treat Ji Ling respectfully because of his connection to Carlos, Roland felt no such obligation.

 

He was one of Carlos's trusted and powerful subordinates, not only in charge of the crucial Lorcana mine but also highly valued by Carlos. Wielding great authority and noble status, he would never regard such a pampered and spoiled dandy as someone worth his attention. He didn’t believe Carlos genuinely liked Ji Ling, either.

 

In his opinion, Ji Ling was merely relying on his status and good looks to momentarily earn Carlos's favor. Once the novelty wore off, what would he amount to? Even if he was married into the family, he would just be a decorative pretty face. The Duke would never take such a frivolous figure seriously.

 

Marquis Roland cast a mocking look at Ji Ling and said, “So it’s Young Master Ji. What an honor.”

 

Ji Ling was momentarily stunned. “You know me?”

 

Marquis Roland replied, “How could I not know of the famous Young Master Ji?”

 

Ji Ling, hearing this, thought his reputation had intimidated the Marquis. Raising his eyebrows, he said, “It’s best to forgive when possible. Let’s let this matter rest.”

 

He assumed Marquis Roland would respond like the nobles on the Emperor Star, accommodating such a small request. Unexpectedly, the man curled his lips into a sneer and said, “That won’t do.”

 

Ji Ling was taken aback by the outright refusal.

 

Marquis Roland stepped closer to Ji Ling and, in a mocking tone, whispered, “If you obediently stay by the Grand Duke’s side as a pretty little canary and stop meddling in affairs that don’t concern you, I can still address you as Young Master Ji. Otherwise—what are you, to bark orders at me?”

 

Ji Ling’s expression finally changed, revealing his surprise. Although he had seen such comments online and could imagine the whispers behind his back, this was the first time someone had dared to call him Carlos’s ‘canary’ to his face!

 

Before Ji Ling could recover, Lina was already furious, shouting, “Roland, what nonsense are you spouting?!”

 

Although Marquis Roland was somewhat wary of Lina, he wasn’t afraid of her. With a provocative smile, he retorted, “What? Do you also want to meddle in others’ affairs?”

 

Ji Ling frowned as he watched the scene unfold. He could now sense the dynamics at play. This nobleman must hold an extraordinary position and believe himself to be more important to Carlos than Ji Ling, which is why he dared to speak so arrogantly and dismissively.

 

It was understandable, though. In an empire where strength was paramount, Ji Ling was merely a C-rank ‘failure.’ Although his noble status allowed him to bask in Carlos’s reflected glory, many likely viewed him the same way this man did. Most wouldn’t voice such thoughts openly.

 

However, it wasn’t surprising when someone finally did.

 

Still, even if this man despised him, Ji Ling doubted he’d go beyond humiliating him verbally. After all, Ji Ling was Carlos’s publicly acknowledged fiancée. If this man dared to lay a hand on him, Carlos would certainly not let him off lightly—if only for appearances. Roland might be an arrogant nuisance, but what could he really do? In the end, wouldn’t he just end up angering himself more?

 

Ji Ling smirked coldly and stepped forward to shield the servant. Just as he was about to speak again, a deep, anger-laden voice rang out from behind: “Roland!”

 

Marquis Roland looked up, his face filled with shock. He immediately bowed respectfully and said, “Your Excellency Carlos.”

 

In front of Carlos, he dared not show the slightest disrespect.

 

Carlos strode over, his expression dark as a storm. Without hesitation, he raised his hand and struck Marquis Roland, sending him flying! His taut features were frosty as he looked down at the man. “Do you not even understand the basic respect owed to someone of higher status than yourself?”

 

Marquis Roland had never expected Carlos to strike him so directly. Coughing up blood, he looked at Carlos in disbelief. Was Carlos really punishing him so harshly over such a trivial matter?

 

Fear and confusion filled the Marquis's eyes as Carlos’s cold, detached voice rang out above him: “It seems a life of comfort has made you arrogant. I doubt your ability to fulfill your duties. I will have someone take over the Lorcana mines. Reflect on your mistakes at home during this period.”

 

Carlos’s action of directly attacking the Marquis had already stunned the onlookers. 

 

But now, his words sent an even greater shockwave through the crowd. Everyone looked on in disbelief.

 

Carlos had not only angrily struck Marquis Roland, seriously injuring him, but had also stripped him of his authority over the Lorcana mines and his position—all because he had offended Ji Ling?

 

Unbelievable!

 

How is this possible?

 

In fact, before this, many people were respectful to Ji Ling on the surface, but they had similar thoughts to Marquis Roland, thinking that Ji Ling was merely Carlos’s fleeting fancy or a beautiful ornament. But Carlos’s decisive actions, punishing even his most trusted subordinate for disrespecting Ji Ling, indicated something far deeper. This was not how one treated a mere ‘canary.’

 

The onlookers, filled with dread, quickly lowered their heads, no longer daring to glance at Ji Ling, lest they inadvertently provoke Carlos's wrath. None of them wielded more power than Marquis Roland; how could they possibly endure Carlos's anger?

 

Ji Ling was equally stunned.

 

He hadn’t expected Carlos to suddenly appear.

 

Unaware of the mine's value or Roland’s exact status, Ji Ling felt no sympathy for the Marquis. A corrupt noble who treated human lives as disposable deserved no pity. If he could fight him, Ji Ling would have loved to take a swing himself. But Carlos’s ruthlessness remained terrifying.

 

Killing servants today, threatening to destroy a city tomorrow, injuring subordinates the day after—why was he so violent and quick to resort to force? So cold-blooded, so terrifying!

 

Ji Ling’s face showed an indescribable mix of emotions. Such cruel and heartless behavior was textbook villainy.

 

But… Uncle Carlos, you know what? Villains like you usually don’t live long.

 

Then again, Ji Ling thought, he might not live long himself—perhaps even meeting a tragic and humiliating end before Carlos did. Recalling the horrifying scene he had witnessed last night, Ji Ling glanced at the cold, menacing man before him, his sadness welling up again. His eyes reddened, and he nearly began to cry.

 

Thinking of the likelihood of his own untimely death, his mood, which had just improved, sank into melancholy once more.

 

Carlos turned back and saw Ji Ling's eyes rimmed with red, his expression filled with sadness. His heart clenched painfully.

 

The humiliation Ji Ling had suffered earlier filled Carlos with guilt and anguish. This was his fault. No matter how much he tried to give the boy the best of everything, there were still those who would slander and hurt his beloved. He couldn't control everyone's thoughts.

 

Once again, he had failed to protect him.

 

Carlos slowly raised his hand, hoping to comfort the boy, only to see Ji Ling step back abruptly.

 

The blue eyes staring back at him were filled with undisguised fear and distance.

 

Of course, Ji Ling must be angry at him. He had been forced to stay by Carlos' side, and now he had been subjected to scorn and humiliation. He must hate him even more now...

 

Carlos closed his eyes briefly, a wry smile tugging at his lips. After a long silence, he finally spoke in a low, hoarse voice, “Lina, take care of Ji Ling.”

 

Then he turned and strode away.

 

Lina's expression shifted. She wanted to stop Carlos but found herself frozen in place as she watched his heavy, retreating figure. It was the first time she had seen Carlos so eager to approach someone yet so powerless to do so.

 

Others might not see it, but she could.

 

Lina sighed. She had intended to create an opportunity for Carlos and Ji Ling to bond but deeply regretted how things had turned out.

 

Turning to look at Ji Ling's pale, fearful face, Lina felt both heartache and helplessness. She sighed again and said, “Young Master, Mr. Carlos really won't harm you. He even punished Marquis Roland for your sake. He truly treats you well, so there's no need to be afraid.”

 

Ji Ling thought to himself, You're just a maid; you don't know the full extent of Carlos' terrifying plans for me!

 

He earnestly warned her, “You don't understand how scary Carlos really is. If he can treat nobles under him so ruthlessly, what do you think will happen to servants like you? Be extra cautious and protect yourself while working for him!”

 

Ji Ling was genuinely worried for the young lady’s safety, fearing she might accidentally offend Carlos and lose her life. Working under Carlos was just too dangerous!

 

Serving a powerful ruler was like living with a tiger—constant peril.

 

Lina saw the genuine concern in Ji Ling's eyes and was momentarily at a loss for words. Somehow, she began to understand a bit of Carlos' despair.

 

Because of what had happened earlier, Ji Ling lost all appetite for dinner and returned to his chambers feeling dispirited.

 

That night, Ji Ling sat in his room alone, staring wide-eyed into the darkness, afraid to sleep. He worried that Carlos might suddenly appear and subject him to some unspeakable torment...

 

Eventually, exhaustion overcame him, and he fell asleep. When he woke the next day, Carlos had not come.

 

Carlos didn’t show up?!

 

Ji Ling felt a mix of relief and joy. Over breakfast, he tentatively asked Lina, “Did Carlos come by last night?”

 

Lina hesitated, her expression complicated, and replied, “No. He's been busy lately and probably won't come for a while…” Judging by Carlos' state the other day, he seemed too distraught to face Ji Ling for now.

 

Ji Ling’s face lit up with joy. He pressed, “Really? Are you sure?”

 

Lina: “...”

 

What was going on? She suddenly felt a pang of sympathy for Carlos. Had she gone mad, pitying that cold, ruthless man? The world must be upside down!

 

Faced with Ji Ling's hopeful and anxious gaze, Lina struggled to respond. Finally, she said, “Yes…”

 

Ji Ling exhaled in relief, his bright eyes shining as he sincerely thanked her, “Thank you.”

 

Lina: “......En.”

 

Her smile froze, and she turned her face away awkwardly.

 

 

Who could he blame?

 

………………

Carlos indeed didn’t appear, and Ji Ling enjoyed a few peaceful days. Soon, the night before the wedding arrived.

 

When Ji Ling returned to his room, he found Carlos standing inside with his back to the door. Surprisingly, Ji Ling wasn’t even that startled. What will come, will come.

 

Carlos turned at the sound of the door, his gaze fixing on the young man before him. His dark brown eyes were deep and unreadable, and his thin lips pressed tightly together.

 

He had avoided coming here these past days, unwilling to face the fear and hatred in Ji Ling's eyes. But tomorrow... tomorrow was their wedding day.

 

Tomorrow, you will become my beloved.

 

Ji Ling met Carlos' gaze quietly. Backing out now wasn’t an option, and he didn’t dare to try. All he could do was take it one step at a time. He had been out and about every day recently, hoping for rescue. Though he hadn’t been able to call for help, his situation here wasn’t exactly a secret. Surely, news had already spread.

 

For now, all he could do was wait. There was nothing else he could do.

 

There didn’t seem to be anything left to say to Carlos.

 

Ji Ling remained silent for a long time before recalling something that had been weighing on his mind—Wen Yan. Ever since being brought back by Carlos, he hadn't seen him even once.

 

After a pause, Ji Ling finally spoke, “I want to see Wen Yan.”

 

Carlos gazed at the boy's face, a faint smile tugging at his lips. But deep within his eyes was a cold, dark stillness. Why had he come here? What had he been hoping for?

 

Tomorrow was their wedding day, yet the only thing the boy wanted to say to him, the only request he had, was to see another man.

 

 

And yet, even so... I still can't refuse you.

 

Carlos said, “Alright.”

 

Without saying another word, he turned and led Ji Ling to the dungeon.

 

Carlos stopped at the door but didn’t go inside. His elegant yet enigmatic face was shrouded in shadows under the dim light. His voice was low and hoarse. “He’s in there.”

 

Ji Ling felt Carlos seemed unusually quiet today, but he didn’t dwell on it. Casting a cautious glance at him, Ji Ling nervously stepped inside.

 

The dungeon was cold and desolate, completely barren.

 

Wen Yan sat on the ground, wearing a gray prison uniform, his hands and feet shackled. His face was pale, his eyes closed. Hearing footsteps, he slowly opened them, and upon recognizing Ji Ling, he abruptly stood. His dark eyes filled with a mix of sorrow and pain.

 

Over the past few days, Wen Yan had even considered ending his own life. That way, Carlos would no longer be able to use him to threaten Ji Ling.

 

But he couldn't let go. At the very least, he wanted to see Ji Ling one more time before he died. He couldn't accept leaving things as they were...

 

He was supposed to protect the boy and give him happiness. Yet he had become the chains that trapped Ji Ling instead, causing him endless anguish.

 

And the boy he loved... even after knowing everything about their past life, still chose to protect him, even at the cost of agreeing to be with another man.

 

Wen Yan’s lips were bloodless. His voice was hoarse and strained. “Do you... not blame me?”

 

Ji Ling looked at Wen Yan's pitiful state and sighed softly. He understood what Wen Yan meant—he was referring to the events of their past life. Although what Wen Yan had done back then was underhanded, Ji Ling didn’t truly harbor blame or hatred.

 

Not just toward Wen Yan, but toward anyone, really.

 

After all, he was only playing out someone else’s role in this scripted story. The character he portrayed wasn’t a good person either, and everything he did was for the sake of the mission, not out of genuine intent. In such circumstances, talking about who owed whom would be unfair.

 

The reason Ji Ling had distanced himself from and feared Wen Yan wasn’t because of any emotional entanglement but because he feared and distrusted him as a person. It was the same fear he felt toward Carlos as a major villain—similar to the natural fear an ordinary person feels toward a dangerous, unhinged individual.

 

Besides, no matter what Wen Yan had done in their past life, wasn’t he already suffering enough now? It seemed even.

 

Ji Ling sighed. “Who says I don’t blame you?”

 

Wen Yan’s eyes widened.

 

Ji Ling met his gaze and said slowly, “You’re my servant. Your life belongs to me. Without my permission, how dare you act on your own and throw it away? And now you dare ask if I blame you?”

 

Wen Yan froze, staring at Ji Ling in disbelief, his lips trembling slightly.

 

The truth was, Ji Ling had come to check on Wen Yan to ensure he was still alive. Wen Yan’s personality was twisted and pathological—both self-deprecating and obsessive, as well as incredibly ruthless toward himself. Ji Ling worried that Wen Yan might blame himself for being used by Carlos to threaten him and end up taking his own life. So, he’d come to say these words on purpose.

 

Even though Wen Yan wasn’t a good person, Ji Ling would still feel guilty if he died for him.

 

Wen Yan’s emotions churned wildly, his gaze dropping after a long pause. In a hoarse voice, he said, “I was wrong. I’m sorry.”

 

 

Ji Ling exhaled and, seeing that Wen Yan seemed stable for now, prepared to leave. After all, Carlos was still waiting outside, and Ji Ling didn’t want to provoke the temperamental villain.

 

Just as Ji Ling turned to leave, Wen Yan suddenly lifted his head. His eyes were filled with sorrow and pain as he softly asked, “May I kiss you?”

 

Ji Ling: “......”

 

Hearing Wen Yan’s humble yet devout plea, Ji Ling’s face flushed red. What’s wrong with you? At a time like this, why aren’t you thinking about your life and instead asking about something like this? Ji Ling was exasperated and helpless. He simply couldn’t deal with these people who thought in such odd ways! He wanted to pry open Wen Yan’s head and see what was inside.

 

He desperately wanted to refuse outright, but as he looked at Wen Yan’s pitiful expression, that desperate and hopeless gaze, and remembered everything Wen Yan had sacrificed for him—even nearly giving his life—Ji Ling felt that rejecting him outright might be too coldhearted. What if it pushed Wen Yan to the brink?

 

This was truly a dilemma!

 

Ji Ling stood frozen, his mind racing to come up with a gentle yet firm way to refuse...

 

Wen Yan, however, stepped closer, his gaze fixed on the boy.

 

Seeing Ji Ling’s conflicted expression, Wen Yan’s heart softened. The boy’s kindness and gentleness made his love for him surge uncontrollably.

 

Wen Yan took a step forward, lowered his head, and lightly kissed him.

 

The kiss was brief, like a dragonfly skimming the surface of water. Before Ji Ling could even react, Wen Yan pulled away. He gazed into Ji Ling’s wide, shocked eyes and whispered in a voice only Ji Ling could hear, “Someone will come to save you.”